How to get to Andahuaylas

Andahuaylas is a picturesque city in the Apurímac region of southern Peru, renowned for its green valleys and vibrant Andean atmosphere. When planning how to get to Andahuaylas, travelers can choose a convenient domestic flight or embark on a journey by bus or car to enjoy the impressive mountain scenery. This route grants access to the unique culture and nature of the region, making the journey itself part of an exciting adventure.

The fastest way to reach the region is by air. The city is served by its own Andahuaylas Airport (ANS), which receives regular flights from the Peruvian capital, Lima. The flight takes about an hour and offers magnificent bird's-eye views of the Andes.

Since the airport is small, the number of flights may be limited. As an alternative, travelers sometimes choose to fly to neighboring major cities, such as Cusco or Ayacucho, from where they can reach their destination by ground transport while admiring the scenic mountain landscapes.

There is no direct rail service to Andahuaylas, as the city does not have its own train station. Traveling by train in this part of the Andes is only possible as part of a combined route, where rail transport is paired with road travel.

The nearest major railway station is located in Cusco. However, it is important to note that you can only get from there to Andahuaylas by road. The journey by bus or rental car covers about 300 kilometers and takes between 7 to 9 hours, passing through picturesque mountain landscapes.

Traveling by bus to Andahuaylas allows you to immerse yourself in the Andean atmosphere and enjoy the scenic winding mountain roads. One of the most sought-after routes is the trip from Cusco: a journey of about 300 kilometers that takes 7 to 9 hours, crossing majestic passes. You can also use transport passing through the town of Anta, which is a convenient alternative for those staying in the vicinity of the Sacred Valley.

Another popular option is departing from the city of Ayacucho, from where the road takes approximately 5–6 hours, covering a distance of about 220 kilometers. Bus services in this region of Peru are quite well developed; however, travelers should be prepared for winding routes, which are compensated by breathtaking views of green valleys and rushing rivers.

A trip by car to Andahuaylas will provide unforgettable impressions of the Peruvian highlands, although it requires confident driving skills on winding roads. The route from Cusco, spanning about 300 kilometers, will take from 7 to 9 hours, passing through the colorful town of Anta, making this path convenient for starting from the Sacred Valley area.

An alternative road leads from Ayacucho: this path is shorter—about 220 kilometers, which can be covered in approximately 5–6 hours. Travelers often use the services of private drivers or taxis for such transfers, but it is worth remembering that fares for long distances are high, and it is best to negotiate the price in advance.

A trip to Andahuaylas promises to be vibrant but requires a little preparation due to the high altitude and the specific nature of the region. Here are some practical tips to help you feel confident and enjoy your journey through this colorful part of the Andes.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The weather in the mountains is changeable. During the day, the sun can be intense, while after sunset, the temperature drops sharply. The best strategy is to dress in layers: bring t-shirts, warm fleece, and a windproof jacket. Be sure to pack comfortable modest trekking shoes, as the terrain of the city and its surroundings is hilly.
2. Transport: The most popular and affordable way to move around the city is by mototaxi ("tuk-tuks"). It is inexpensive and allows you to quickly reach any point in the center. for trips to remote attractions, such as the Pacucha Lagoon, it is more reliable to hire an official taxi or use shared vans (colectivos).
3. Finances: The main currency is the Peruvian Sol. Small shops, markets, and transport exclusively accept cash. There are ATMs in the center, but cards are not accepted everywhere. We recommend always carrying small banknotes and coins, as vendors may not have change for large bills.
4. Health and Safety: The city is located at an altitude of about 2,900 meters, so do not overexert yourself physically in the first few days to avoid altitude sickness. Drink plenty of bottled water and try local herbal teas known to help with acclimatization. Do not forget sun protection and a hat—the mountain sun is very active even in cool weather.
5. Communication: English is practically not spoken in Andahuaylas. Locals speak Spanish and Quechua (Chanka dialect). Having an offline translator on your phone or knowing basic phrases in Spanish will significantly facilitate communication and help in everyday situations.
6. Local Etiquette: People here are welcoming and value politeness. It is customary to greet others when entering a shop or getting into a taxi ("Buenos días" or "Buenas tardes"). If you wish to photograph locals, especially elderly people in traditional clothing, be sure to ask for permission first.
7. What to Avoid: Under no circumstances should you drink tap water, and avoid drinks with ice in street cafes if you are unsure of their source. Also, avoid walking alone in unlit outskirts of the city after dark.
8. Additional Tip: If you find yourself in the city on a Sunday, be sure to visit the traditional fair (Feria Dominical). It is the center of social life where you can buy unique handmade items, the freshest local fruits, and try authentic regional dishes (while Halal certification is rare, vegetarian options and fresh trout are excellent choices) at very affordable prices.

By following these simple recommendations, you can avoid everyday inconveniences and focus entirely on the beauty of the region's nature and culture. Andahuaylas is a hospitable city that generously rewards prepared travelers with warm memories.