7 days in Ayacucho, Peru: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Nestled in the heart of the Peruvian Andes, Ayacucho is a gem full of history, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. Known for its charming colonial architecture and vibrant artisanal scene, this underrated destination offers a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. With more than 33 churches and temples, Ayacucho is often referred to as the City of Churches, making spiritual exploration one of its many highlights. Not to mention, the city is also the birthplace of the famous Holy Week celebrations and a gateway to ancient ruins such as Wari and Vilcashuamán.
Things to consider before arriving to Ayacucho
- Affordable destination – Ayacucho is much more budget-friendly than other more touristy spots in Peru.
- Rich cultural experience – From artisan markets to traditional festivals, you’ll immerse yourself in Andean culture.
- Limited public transportation – Exploring Ayacucho can be challenging for those who rely on public transportation.
- History buffs, adventure seekers, and spiritual travelers will love Ayacucho the most.
What to bring with you
Remember to pack warm clothes, as the city’s high altitude means cooler temperatures, especially during evenings. Comfortable walking shoes will come in handy when exploring the cobbled streets, and don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery and architectural beauty.
Best time of the year to visit
The ideal time to visit Ayacucho is between April and November, as the weather is typically dry and temperatures are pleasant. If you’re interested in experiencing Ayacucho’s Holy Week festivities, plan your trip around Easter.
How to get into the city
1. By plane: Ayacucho has a small airport, the Coronel FAP Alfredo Mendívil Duarte Airport, with regular flights from Lima, operated by LATAM and Sky Airline.
2. By bus: Long-distance buses connect Ayacucho with Lima, Huancayo, Cusco, and other major cities in Peru. The journey from Lima takes around 10-12 hours, so be prepared for a long ride.
3. By car: If you prefer the flexibility of driving yourself, rental car options are available, and the scenic drive from Lima to Ayacucho takes approximately 9 hours.
7 day city guide trip in Ayacucho, Peru
Day 1: Arrival and City Tour
Welcome to Ayacucho! Start your trip by visiting the historic center of the city. Plaza Mayor is a must-see landmark, surrounded by colonial-style buildings and the impressive Ayacucho Cathedral. Take a walk along Calle Real, a street filled with handicraft markets and local shops. In the evening, head to Callejon de Huaylas for a taste of the traditional cuisine.
Day 2: Wari ruins and Huanta
Start your day with a journey back in time and head to the Wari ruins, just a 15-minute drive outside the city. After exploring the ruins, take a short trip to Huanta, a small town known for its handicrafts and impressive natural scenery. Try a traditional dish of cuy (guinea pig) for lunch, a delicacy in this region.
Day 3: Chicha brewery and Pampa de Ayacucho
Visit a local chicha brewery and learn about the process of making this traditional drink, made from fermented maize. Afterward, take a trip to Pampa de Ayacucho, the site of a historic battle for Peruvian independence. The site offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Day 4: Vilcashuaman and Raqchi
Take a day trip to Vilcashuaman, a town filled with impressive Incan ruins and beautiful colonial architecture. Stop in Raqchi on your way back to Ayacucho, known for its unique textiles and beautiful landscapes.
Day 5: Semana Santa and Santo Domingo Convent
If you’re lucky enough to be in Ayacucho during Semana Santa, you’re in for a treat. The city comes alive with religious processions and festivities. Afterward, visit the Santo Domingo Convent, known for its impressive architecture and a beautiful painting by a local artist.
Day 6: Ayacucho Surroundings
Take a day to explore the surroundings of Ayacucho, visiting small towns like Quinua, where the final battle of the Peruvian War of Independence took place, and Cangallo, famous for its textiles and beautiful scenic views.
Day 7: Craft markets and local cuisine
Spend your last day in Ayacucho exploring the local markets, known for their handicrafts and traditional textiles. Try some local street food like anticuchos or picarones, fried doughnut-like desserts drizzled with honey. In the evening, head to the Mirador de Acuchimay to enjoy the sunset with a beautiful panoramic view of the city.
How to continue your travel after you have spent 7 days in Ayacucho
After experiencing Ayacucho’s rich history and culture, two nearby cities to continue your journey are Huancavelica and Huancayo. Huancavelica, just a 4-hour drive from Ayacucho, is a small colonial city surrounded by beautiful hills and mountains, known for its traditional textiles and silver mines. Meanwhile, Huancayo is a larger city, about 6 hours from Ayacucho, surrounded by impressive waterfalls and natural sceneries. Don’t miss taking a ride on the scenic Ferrocarril Central Andino train, which passes through stunning mountain landscapes.
