From Cusco: Virgen del Carmen Festival & Tres Cruces Tour

Highlights

• Experience the Virgen del Carmen Festival in Paucartambo.
• Enjoy colorful traditional dances and Andean traditions.
• Discover the ancient pre-Inca Chullpas of Ninamarca.
• Watch the spectacular sunrise from the Tres Cruces viewpoint.
• Admire where the Andes meet the Amazon from Tres Cruces.

Description

Experience the Virgen del Carmen Festival in Paucartambo, one of Peru’s most important religious and folkloric celebrations. From July 15 to 17, enjoy traditional dances, music, colorful costumes, local culture, and the festive atmosphere of this unique Andean celebration. The experience also includes a visit to the Tres Cruces Viewpoint, known as the “Balcony of the East,” where you can watch the spectacular sunrise over the transition between the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. If weather conditions are favorable, you may witness the famous optical effect known as the “three suns.” Day 1: Cusco – Ninamarca – Paucartambo -Start with hotel pickup in Cusco and travel through the spectacular Andean landscapes toward Paucartambo. -On the way, visit the Ninamarca Chullpas, an ancient pre-Inca archaeological site with stone funerary structures. Learn about their history and importance in Andean culture. -Continue to Paucartambo, arriving around midday. After lunch and settling into the campsite, explore the town and enjoy the beginning of the festival. -During the afternoon and evening, watch the arrival of dance groups, traditional music, colorful costumes, and masks. Depending on the official program, you may also enjoy fireworks and serenades honoring the Virgen del Carmen. Accommodation: Camping in Paucartambo Meals: Lunch and dinner Day 2: Virgen del Carmen Festival -After breakfast, experience the main celebrations of the Virgen del Carmen Festival. -Enjoy religious activities, traditional music, processions, and performances by the different dance groups. Admire traditional characters such as the Saqras, Qhapaq Qolla, and Qhapaq Chunchu, known for their impressive masks, costumes, and cultural symbolism. -You will have free time to explore Paucartambo, take photographs, and enjoy the festive atmosphere and local cuisine. -In the evening, return to the campsite for dinner and rest before the early-morning departure to Tres Cruces. Accommodation: Camping in Paucartambo Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner Day 3: Paucartambo – Tres Cruces – Cusco -Depart around 3:00 a.m. by private transportation toward the Tres Cruces Viewpoint, located at approximately 3,700 m above sea level. -Arrive before sunrise and watch the first rays of sunlight illuminate the horizon as the Andes meet the Amazon rainforest. If conditions are favorable, you may see the spectacular “three suns” optical effect above the sea of clouds. -After sunrise, return to Paucartambo for breakfast and time to rest or explore the town. Depending on the official festival schedule, you may enjoy some of the activities taking place on July 17. After lunch, begin the return journey to Cusco, arriving at approximately 6:00 p.m. Meals: Breakfast and lunch

Includes

Official professional tour guide. Private tourist transportation. Hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco. 2 breakfasts. 3 lunches. 2 dinners. 2 nights of camping in Paucartambo. 4-season mountain tents. Sleeping mats. Thermal sleeping bags rated to -18 °C / 0 °F. Portable oxygen. First aid kit. Permanent assistance from the tour team.

Excludes

Breakfast on Day 1. Dinner on Day 3. Entrance fees to attractions, including Tres Cruces Viewpoint. Personal trekking and mountain gear. Personal expenses and snacks. Tips for the guide, driver, and support staff.

Important Information

• This tour is available only from July 15 to July 18, during the main days of the Virgen del Carmen Festival in Paucartambo. It is not available on other dates. Bring your original passport or valid ID throughout the experience. Weather in Paucartambo and Tres Cruces can be cold, especially before sunrise. Bring warm and waterproof clothing and suitable hiking shoes. Departure to Tres Cruces is approximately at 3:00 a.m. to arrive before sunrise. The famous “three suns” optical effect depends on weather conditions and is not guaranteed. The festival can attract large crowds during its main celebrations. Inform us when booking about any food allergies or special dietary requirements. The exact pickup time will be confirmed before the tour. Please be ready at least 10 minutes in advance.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund