San Andres: Huancas and the El Pilco Waterfall

For a trip to San Andres, you can plan around two different highlights: the archaeological site of Huancas is in the associated district, while the Catarata “El Pilco” is in the surrounding area. At Huancas, the focus is on finds and architectural forms; at El Pilco, it is on a route with road and walking sections. These differences can help you plan your vacation days and choose a vacation rental based on the excursions that interest you most.

Huancas: archaeological finds and architectural forms

The archaeological site of Huancas, sectors A and B, is located in the district of Querocotillo, in the province of Cutervo in the department of Cajamarca. Fragments of domestic-style pottery were found at the monument. Use by the Cajamarca culture is considered likely. This brings together specific finds and a cultural attribution phrased with appropriate caution.

The architecture can also be understood through individual features: the simple structures are made of unworked stones joined with mortar. There are also rectangular and square structures of varying sizes. Their walls are low and vary in width. The materials, floor plans, and dimensions give anyone interested in culture specific points of reference for picturing the structures described.

A 2022 inspection of the cultural monument described an existing road that crosses the central area of the site and connects Techin with El Molino. If you are planning a visit, check in advance on the current access route and accessibility.

El Pilco: three stages to the waterfall

Access to the Catarata “El Pilco” leads from Sócota toward Mochadín. First, the route follows a paved road for about 45 minutes. This is followed by roughly 45 minutes on an unpaved road, up to its end. The final section is an approximately 45-minute walk to the waterfall. The sequence of two road sections and a walking section is an important difference from the cultural site of Huancas when planning your excursion days.

If you are traveling with children, it is best to account for all three stages in sequence: the walking section is only part of the full route. Check the current trail conditions before setting out, as they may differ from the details given here. This will help you plan the route as a complete excursion rather than considering only the walking time.

Choose a vacation rental to suit your plans

Huancas and El Pilco offer different highlights: Huancas focuses on archaeological material and architecture, while El Pilco involves a sequence of road and walking sections. Consider which theme you want to shape your stay in San Andres more. This decision can help you tailor your excursions and vacation rental search to your own travel plans.

For Huancas, check current accessibility and road access; for El Pilco, take all three stages and current trail conditions into account. This will help you compare your options against your planned daily itinerary and better weigh the different highlights of your trip.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Huarango, Jaén, Santo Tomas, Magdalena, Baños del Inca, San Juan, Chontabamba, Namora.

Go to the main travel overview: Cajamarca.