Tour overview
At KYD Tours we operate this two-day, one-night trip to the Pampachiri stone forest, in the Apurímac highlands, near Andahuaylas. It is an outing for travelers who want landscapes that are not crowded, volcanic formations with an almost surreal look, and time to walk at an easy pace. We confirm departure times, the overnight stay, and meeting points when you book.
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Best time to travel Approx. April to October (dry season)
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Approximate altitude Apurímac highlands (~3,000–3,500 m)
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Physical difficulty Moderate; walking on uneven ground
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Minimum number of passengers 2 adults
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Maximum number of passengers 10 adults
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Booking lead time In advance; confirm the overnight stay when you book
Overview
- Duration: 2 days / 1 night.
- Day 1: departure from Cusco, transfer through the highlands toward the Andahuaylas–Pampachiri corridor, and overnight in the area.
- Day 2: visit to the stone forest (walk and exploration) and return to Cusco.
- Included: private transport and trail guide.
- Not included: entrance tickets to the sites (if they apply) and extras not listed.
Itinerary
Day 1 — Cusco → Pampachiri / Andahuaylas area
We leave Cusco early in private transport. The route crosses highland landscapes toward Apurímac: it is a long travel day, with short stops to stretch your legs, drink water, and have lunch on the road according to the group’s pace.
When we reach the Andahuaylas or Pampachiri area (according to the confirmed plan), we settle in for the night. We go over the next day’s logistics with the guide: departure time for the forest, what to carry on the walk, and how the return to Cusco is organized.
Day 2 — Pampachiri stone forest and return
In the morning we head to the stone forest. The site is more than three hours from Andahuaylas and about one hour from the town of Pampachiri: a landscape of rock formations born from volcanic material some three million years ago, spread across about 60 hectares. We walk among the stones at an easy pace; the setting invites quiet looking and photography.
After the visit we return toward Cusco. The way back is also long, so we plan stops and an estimated arrival according to traffic and weather. When we drop you at the agreed point in Cusco, the service ends; if you want to extend your stay in Andahuaylas or on another stretch, we arrange that separately when you book.
Recommendations
- Wear closed shoes with good grip, a windbreaker, sunscreen, a cap, water, and snacks.
- Dress in layers: cold highland mornings and strong midday sun.
- A camera or phone with a spare battery: the landscape invites a lot of photos.
- If you are coming from a lowland city, drink plenty of water the day before and tell us about any health restrictions.
- Confirm the pickup point in Cusco and the type of lodging for the night with us before you travel.
Inclusions
Included
- Private transport.
- Trail guide.
Not included
- Entrance tickets to the tourist sites.
- Meals, drinks, and snacks (unless agreed in writing).
- Lodging outside the confirmed plan.
- Tips and personal expenses.
- Any service not listed under Inclusions.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the tour?
Two days and one night, with the outbound transfer on day 1, the forest visit on day 2, and the return to Cusco.
How difficult is it?
A moderate walk at an easy pace among rock formations. It is not a technical trek, but the ground is uneven and the highland altitude calls for a steady pace and proper footwear.
Is the forest entrance fee included?
No. Entrance tickets, if charged at the site, are paid by the traveler.
Is there a fixed price on the website?
The public page shows “From: per person” without an amount. We quote according to the date, group size, and type of overnight stay.
Can it be done as a same-day round trip?
Because of the distance, the 2D/1N format is the one we operate comfortably. If you need a different length, ask us before you book.
