Chincheros: Temples, Pilgrimage History and Nature

Chincheros and Cocharcas offer different themes to explore: Cocharcas is known for its colonial religious architecture and pilgrimage history, while archaeological sites, a glacial lake and natural rock formations offer other perspectives. Would you like to learn more about architecture and local traditions, or would you rather take in the landscapes and wildlife while hiking? When looking for a holiday rental, it helps to first choose the experiences that matter most to you, then check the location for your trip.

Temples and Pilgrimage History in Cocharcas

The Templo Colonial de Cocharcas, also called the Santuario de Cocharcas, is a historic religious building of colonial origin dating from the 16th century. Built in the Baroque style from dressed stone, it houses the image of the Virgen de Cocharcas. It is a popular pilgrimage destination and was declared an artistic monument in 1941. The Plaza de Armas de Cocharcas is a colonial square associated with evangelization and the development of Marian devotion from the late 16th century onward. It includes former pilgrim lodgings, built between 1598 and 1680 to accommodate the faithful arriving on September 8.

To reach the temple, the route from the bus station in Uripa covers 31 kilometers on an unpaved road. By combi, the journey takes about an hour. As route details should be checked locally, it is advisable to confirm them before setting off.

The Fiesta de Pascua de Uripa in the district of Anco Huallo was also declared part of the Nation’s Cultural Heritage. Its significance lies in the way it brings together history and oral tradition, the use of the Quechua language, culinary practices, and local musical and artistic expression. In this way, the fiesta strengthens the continuity of traditional knowledge and practices. It represents a distinct cultural focus alongside Cocharcas’s architectural and pilgrimage history.

Archaeological Sites and History Passed Down

Muyu Orcco is an archaeological site in the district of Chincheros, in Chincheros Province. The resolution dated August 26, 2025, provides for two years of provisional protection. The pre-Columbian Conjunto Arqueológico de Paqwayranra is located in the district of Cocharcas and is also under provisional protection. The archaeological site Sondondo Sector A y B was declared part of the Nation’s Cultural Heritage; its location is given as Huaccana, Chincheros and Apurímac.

The archaeological site of Muyu Muyu dates from the Chanka period and is of historical value. Local traditions tell of great battles during the Chanka expansion and the war with the Inca. These accounts are part of local oral tradition. The summit of Muyu Muyu also offers a wide view across the region, with the Río Pampas in the distance.

Rock Formations, Circular Trail and Laguna de Anori

In the Bosque de Piedras de Ccenhua, large naturally eroded rocks shape the landscape. Their forms resemble people and animals. Two entrances form a circular hiking trail between the upper and lower areas; at the top is a viewpoint overlooking the district of Ranracancha. Highland and Puna wildlife can be observed in the forest, including Andean foxes, squirrels and various birds, among them several Puna bird species.

Laguna de Anori is a lake of glacial origin between two hills. Queñua, Chachacoma and alder trees grow along its shores; there are also reed beds and various algae. Animals found there include wild ducks, gulls and Pejerrey. A nature outing offers different experiences at each place: at Ccenhua, weathered rock formations and the circular trail; at Laguna de Anori, the lake and life along its shores.

Choose the Right Focus for Your Trip

The places described appeal to different interests: Cocharcas centers on temples, Marian devotion and pilgrimage history, while Ccenhua and Laguna de Anori offer natural and scenic attractions. Archaeological sites add pre-Columbian history and local traditions to the mix. When choosing a holiday rental, it is therefore helpful to first decide which places you plan to visit and check their locations and access routes.

Discover more destinations: Chincheros, Aymaraes and Andahuaylas Province.

For the broader travel overview: Apurímac.