Community of Chichubamba

Website: www.agrotourismsacredvalley.com
E-mail: info.agrotourism@gmail.com
Phone: ProPeru Office: +011 51 84 201562 or Elizabeth Capcha: +011 51 84 205062

Community

The community of Chichubamba

Who they are

The community of Chichubamba is a natural part of the Sacred Valley and was the home of the native group Chicho. The people here have been living in the traditional manner of the Andes by raising crops and selling them in locally.

The name “Chichubamba” originates from the Prehispanic time. Documents dating from 1552 indicate that the community (or “ayllu”) of what is now Chichubamba was inhabited by the native Chicho people. This community also bordered the community of the indigenous Paca, who resided south of Q’espihuanca, and the Yanaconas, servants of the Inca.

The community is dedicated to agriculture, horticulture, and a multitude of activities that are only found here. Chichubamba is now open to visitors to see first-hand how this diverse and welcoming group live in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Come and enjoy the community in all of its splendor.

What they offer

Chichubamba offers activities and lodging for all who are interested in the Andean way of life

Honey Production
- Apiculture remains a tradition drawing from centuries of experience. Visit the home of veteran beekeeper, Prudencio Herrera, and aid in the extraction of honey from the comb and taste the sweet nectar of the plants of the Sacred Valley.

Ceramics
- Ceramics have been present in Andean society for hundreds of years. You can watch as experienced potters create their masterpieces using traditional tools and their own artistic talent. Aferward, you can visit the family store and see all they have to offer.

Chicha
- Chicha is a popular Peruvian corn-based alcoholic drink that was a major part of the Incan culture. Visit a traditional brewery to learn about the process of making chicha while joining the locals for a mid-afternoon drink!

Chocolate
- Ever wondered where that dreamy dark chocolate comes from? In Chichubamba, you can learn about the process of making chocolate from the cocoa beans (try one!) brought annually from the jungle region of Peru. After watching, you can even enjoy the sweet taste of homemade Peruvian chocolate.

Cuy
- Cuy, known as guinea pig, was an Incan delicacy and became a crucial element of the Andean culture. The cuy were eaten only on special occassions, and the tradition continues here in Chichubamba. Come see the preparation of the cuy and perhaps try some for yourself… if you are brave enough!

Floriculture
- In Chichubamba, you can walk along the Incan terraces that are still being used for farming today. Here you can learn from the farmers about the organic techniques used for floriculture and taste the rich fruits of the Sacred Valley!

Textiles
- Textiles have played an important role in Andean society for hundreds of years. Textile systems developed in Peru over the millennia mostly remain unknown elsewhere because they are passed on by watching and practicing. The tradition of textiles continues in Chichubamba today where visitors can see first hand how the people of the Sacred Valley make these beautiful artistic pieces

Hiking to Do Torres
- The ruins of Dos Torres are located on top of Sayhua (Ito) ridge, overlooking the community of Chichubamba. After a vigorous two hour hike up to Dos Torres, enjoy a spectaclar 360º view of the Sacred Valley. At the top lie the two ancient Incan watchtowers used for monitoring the valley. From this point, you can see Chichubamba, Urubamba, and beyond! Not to mention incredible views of the Valley of Chaquihuayjo and the Chicón Glacier!

Visiting the Palace of Huayna Capac
- Within the community of Chichubamba, you can visit the ruins and palace of Huayna Capac (1493-1527), the last Inca king to rule over a unified Inca civilization before civil war and the Spanish conquistadors changed the course of history for the Incas forever. Huayna Capac resided in the Sacred Valley during his reign of power and was responsible for the expansion of the Inca Empire to the south; to Chile and Argentina. After enjoying some time learning about the customs and traditions of the Sacred Valley, you will have the opportunity to walk among the ruins of the great civilization of the Incas located here in the heart of Chichubamba.

Location

ProPeru Office
Casa de ProPeru
Jr. Rejachayoc
Urubamba, Cusco
Perú

Driving Directions: There are several ways to get to Urubamba from Cusco:
- Bus company Caminos del Inca are located on Calle Puputi in Cusco (1.5 hours: PEN 3)
- Collective taxis to Urubamba are located on Calle Pavitos in Cusco (45 minutes – 1 hour: PEN 6 per person with five people)
- Bus company Urubamba/Chicon Avenida Grau in Cusco (1.5 hours: PEN 3)

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What you need

- Insect repellent
- Torch
- Rubber boots
- Light waterproof jacket
- Recommended clothing consists of lightweight long pants and light shoes with socks and a lightweight long-sleeved shirt to keep the insects away.

Accommodation & Amenities

Homestay with a local family in the community. You will have a private room. The Agrotourism Project has one wonderful hostel which is geared towards those with a smaller budget and includes private rooms.
Shared bathrooms with hot water showers.
There is electricity
The ancient agricultural techniques are still in use today in Chichubamba and families use local ingredients such as potatoes and corn from their own farms to deliver an authentic Sacred Valley taste. You can even enjoy the traditional Andean dish of cuy (guinea pig)!
Accomodation at the hostel is PEN 40 per night