5 Picturesque Andean Villages You Should Visit Near Cusco

🏔️ 5 Picturesque Andean Villages You Should Visit Near Cusco

Beyond Cusco and Machu Picchu, there are traditional Andean villages that preserve their essence, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. These places are perfect for travelers who wish to experience rural life, artisan markets, archaeological sites, and natural wonders, all within a short distance from Cusco.

Here are 5 picturesque villages near Cusco you’ll fall in love with:

✨ Pisac

Located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, Pisac is famous for its impressive archaeological site and colorful artisan market. You’ll find textiles, ceramics, and jewelry made by local artisans.

📌 Highlights:

• Pisac Archaeological Site with Inca terraces and temples.

• Traditional market on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays.

📸 Tip: Don’t miss photos from the terraces overlooking the valley.

✨ Chinchero

Known as the birthplace of the rainbow, Chinchero is a charming village where time seems to stand still. Local women continue to weave textiles using ancestral techniques.

📌 Highlights:

• Colonial church built atop Inca foundations.

• Textile workshops where you can learn natural dyeing techniques.

• Inca terraces and ruins.

📸 Tip: Great for portrait photos with weavers and colorful Andean scenery.

✨ Maras

This small village is the gateway to the famous Maras Salt Mines, a surreal site of over 3,000 salt pools used since pre-Inca times.

📌 Highlights:

• The Maras Salt Mines, with their pinkish-white pools.

• The colonial-style central plaza and narrow streets.

📸 Tip: The best photos are at sunset, when the salt flats glow golden.

✨ Ollantaytambo

Known as the living Inca town, Ollantaytambo preserves its original Inca urban design. Its cobbled streets, water channels, and towering ruins make it a place full of living history.

📌 Highlights:

• Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site.

• Artisan markets and Inca water canals.

• Charming main square.

📸 Tip: The views from the top of the fortress are among the best in the Sacred Valley.

✨ Andahuaylillas

This picturesque town is famous for San Pedro de Andahuaylillas Church, known as the Sistine Chapel of America for its impressive murals and gold leaf decorations.

📌 Highlights:

• San Pedro de Andahuaylillas Church.

• Main square with ancient trees.

• Sunday artisan fair.

📸 Tip: Don’t miss the details inside the church — a true baroque masterpiece.