Goñicutac, Astobamba & Warawtampu Day Trip

Delve into the rich historical fabric of Peru during the day trip to Goñicutac, Astobamba, and Warawtampu. This excursion offers a unique opportunity to explore significant archaeological sites, unraveling the stories of ancient civilizations.

Day Trip to Goñicutac, Astobamba & Warawtampu

Your adventure begins at 7 am with a pick-up from your hotel in Cerro de Pasco. We will journey toward the picturesque Chaupihuaranga Valley. Upon reaching the quaint village of Rocco, prepare for a scenic 1.5-hour trek that leads us to the Goñicutac Archaeological Complex, an ancient Yaro settlement.

This indigenous group thrived in the citadel during the 13th century, asserting dominance over the Pasco and Huánuco regions prior to Inca expansion. Strolling through the narrow streets, charming plazas, and hidden passages, you'll uncover the intriguing narratives of this sacred site, alongside the innovative hydraulic structures that ensured a steady water supply. Our visit will also include the Temple of the Moon, a significant location for ancient sacrificial rituals honoring this celestial entity.

Next, we will proceed to Yanahuanca, where you’ll have some leisure time to enjoy lunch. Afterward, the exploration of additional archaeological treasures in the valley will continue.

Just three miles away, you will encounter the Astobamba and Warawtampu archaeological sites. While a river meanders between these locations, an Inca-built bridge connects them, forming an integral part of the ancient Inca Trail originating from Cusco. At Astobamba, we will examine its pre-Inca structures, testament to the Wari civilization, known as one of the dominant societies of the Andes, with their name translating to "City of Punishment" in Quechua.

Following this, we will visit Warawtampu, notable for its Incan architecture. Here, significant structures such as the Incawasi, identified as the Inca's palace, and the Baño del Inca water fountain, which served the community’s water needs, await. The breathtaking tiered waterfalls of this complex, spanning nearly 3 kilometers, add to the site’s allure.

As this insightful day draws to a close, we will return to Cerro de Pasco, dropping you off at your accommodation by approximately 6 pm.