Weather in Chinchero

Chinchero sits high on the rim of the Sacred Valley, a traditional Andean town where Inca terracing meets a lively Sunday market and a centuries-old weaving tradition still practised by local cooperatives. The town's colonial church, built on Inca foundations, overlooks ruins and terraces with views across the valley toward snow-capped peaks. Less visited than Pisac or Ollantaytambo, it offers a quieter, more textile-focused stop on the way between Cusco and the rest of the Sacred Valley.

Best areas to stay in Chinchero

Main plaza and church

The colonial-era church built atop Inca stone walls, with the town's main square and market area in front.

Inca terraces and ruins

Agricultural terraces and ceremonial stonework just below the town, with views across the Sacred Valley.

Weaving cooperatives

Community-run textile centres where visitors can watch traditional dyeing and weaving demonstrations.

Sunday market

A weekly market drawing traders from surrounding highland communities, selling produce, textiles, and crafts.

Getting to Chinchero

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Flights

Fly to Cusco (CUZ) via Lima, then take a colectivo or taxi (around 30–45 minutes) to Chinchero.

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From London

~20–24 hours total from London including connections

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Getting around

The town is compact and walkable; colectivos and taxis connect onward to other Sacred Valley towns.

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit Chinchero?

The dry season (May to September) offers the clearest mountain views, while the Sunday market is the liveliest day to visit regardless of season.

How do I get to Chinchero?

Colectivo minibuses run frequently from Cusco (around 30–45 minutes), and it's a common stop on Sacred Valley tours.

What's the food scene like?

Simple Andean fare — soups, roasted guinea pig (cuy), and corn-based dishes — served in small local restaurants, particularly around the market.

Is Chinchero good value?

Yes — textiles bought directly from weaving cooperatives are often better value and higher quality than similar items sold in Cusco's tourist markets.

What language is spoken in Chinchero?

Quechua and Spanish are both widely spoken; English is limited outside guided tour groups.

Traveler reviews

★★★★★

The weaving demonstration was fascinating — seeing the whole process from raw wool to dyed thread to finished textile gave real context to what we'd been buying elsewhere.

Beth A. · June 2023

★★★★☆

Visited on a Sunday and the market was wonderfully chaotic — much more local than touristy, with great views over the terraces.

Pablo N. · September 2024

★★★★☆

A nice quieter alternative to the busier Sacred Valley stops, and the church interior was a real surprise — beautifully painted.

Claire D. · July 2023