Chincheros is an unassuming village in a dramatic location high above the plains of the Urubamba Valley. Its Sunday market has a low-key, traditional atmosphere despite its popularity. Aside from the famous market, the town also has interesting Incan ruins and a lovely colonial church, both worth exploring.
According to ancient Incan legends, Chincheros is the birthplace of the rainbow. You might spot one in the sky, particularly if you visit during the rainy season.
Wander through the village’s streets, where local residents often still dress in traditional clothing. Admire old-fashioned mud-brick houses. Look for the Urubamba and Vilcabamba mountain ranges on the horizon, as well as the rugged peak of Salcantay.
Browse the handicraft and produce sections of the Chinchero Market. The handicraft market is one of the region’s best places to shop for Andean textiles. The market is open every day, but it’s particularly busy on Sundays when artisans make the journey from nearby mountain villages to sell their products.
Be sure to explore the town’s Incan ruins, including a well-preserved set of agriculture terraces, still used today. In the town’s main plaza, you’ll find an enormous stone wall with 10 trapezoidal niches. The wall was once part of the palace of 15th-century Túpac Inca Yupanqui.
Look for the town’s Iglesia Colonial de Chinchero church, which was constructed in 1607 on top of limestone Incan ruins. Don’t miss the frescoes that decorate the church’s porticoes, as well as the colourful murals found inside.
Take a quick look inside the Museo de Sitio, a modest archeological museum that houses a collection of Incan ceramics and instruments. For a longer excursion, hike along the Wayllabamba trail leading across the Sacred Valley to Yucay.
Chincheros is located 17 miles (28 kilometres) northwest of Cusco, and can be reached by bus, colectivo (shared van) or car. A tourist ticket is required to visit the town’s market and church.
