You probably haven’t heard of this tiny village, nestled in the middle of the Sacred Valley of the Incas in the Andes mountain range. Of course, it’s not as big as Urubamba, or as popular as Maras salt mines or Moray, but Yucay’s charming district invites you to explore its wide streets and stunning colonial buildings of adobe and stucco.
Cozy accommodations surround the picturesque town square, making it an ideal spot to relax. Yucay is a peaceful community with stunning views of the countryside. Historically, Inca chief Sayri Túpac received this region and built a beautiful palace. As you travel through the welcoming Plaza de Armas, you’ll come upon intriguing Inca ruins.
The neighboring mountains have some of the valley’s best agricultural terraces, reflecting the region’s rich legacy. Yucay holds unusual gems waiting for you to explore them. Let’s see all of the wonderful experiences that this charming village has to offer!
Yucay History
The name “Yucay” comes from a Quechua word that means “deception” or “charm,” but the exact origin of the name is still a bit of a mystery. The chronicler Pedro Cieza de León described Yucay as “very beautiful,” and it’s easy to see why!
This town in the Valley of Urubamba boasts a lovely climate and stunning natural scenery. Yucay has a rich history, as it was a resting spot for Inca emperors, like Huayna Cápac and Sayri Túpac. It was also an important inca agricultural center in colonial times. Yucay, founded around 1600, still shows its Inca roots. Its foundations and terraces thrive to this day.
Yucay is just 48 kilometers from Cusco, and getting there is easy! You can start your journey with a public transport bus from Cusco to Urubamba. From there, it’s a quick bus ride or a pleasant walk to the charming village.
If you’re driving, you’ll find the roads are smooth and well-paved, making it simple to reach. One of the best things about Yucay is that it’s not too crowded with tourists, so you can enjoy a more genuine and peaceful experience.
The Climate and Best Time to Visit
People know Yucay for its lovely warm climate, which makes it a great spot for travelers all year long! The best time to visit is during the dry season from May to October. During this time, you can enjoy nice, comfortable temperatures during the day.
Just remember to pack some light clothes for the daytime, but don’t forget a warm jacket for the evenings, as it can get a bit chilly. You can find more information in this article about the weather in Cusco.
What to Do in Yucay
Plaza de Armas
This lively square is the heart of Yucay. Here, visitors can enjoy the beautiful colonial architecture and the vibrant local atmosphere. The square is bordered by lush gardens and tall Pisonay trees, making it a perfect place to relax and take in the scenery.
Church of Santiago Apóstol
Built in 1650, this church is a great example of colonial architecture. Inside, you’ll find valuable religious artifacts, including a stunning altar decorated with gold and silver. The church is well-preserved, allowing visitors to appreciate its rich history.
Yucay Museum
This engaging museum showcases the customs and skills of the local community. Visitors can explore exhibits on weaving, food preparation, and goldsmithing, giving a glimpse into the traditional lifestyles of the area’s people.
Platforms of Yucay
These terraces hold the title of the largest agricultural platform in the Sacred Valley and are still in use today. Visitors can climb the ancient steps to reach the platforms, where they will discover the Mythological Stone. This stone represents Andean cosmovision, illustrating the three levels of existence.
Outdoor Activities and Local Market
Yucay is a fantastic place for adventure lovers! One exciting option is to hike to Llanacocha Lake, (Black Lake), nestled at the base of the beautiful San Juan mountain. This hike is a wonderful chance for trekkers to enjoy beautiful landscapes and get closer to nature.
You should also check out the Yucay Market at the corner of Jirón Comercio and Jirón Sucre. This lively market is a delightful spot to discover local produce. The small market is full of fresh vegetables and seasonal fruits. It is a special place to taste the area’s authentic flavors.
Cultural Heritage and Significance
Yucay may be small, but it is bursting with history and cultural treasures! In the Inca Empire era, it was a home for emperors and an important farming center. This rich history continued during colonial times when Yucay became a vital spot for agriculture in the valley. In 1905, Yucay officially became a district in the province of Urubamba, which helped strengthen its role in the area.
Often called the “capital of the Sacred Valley of the Incas,” Yucay is popular for its vibrant culture and historical importance. Yucay is a truly remarkable place! Many tour guides lovingly refer to it as the “most beautiful town in the world,” thanks to its calm atmosphere, pleasant weather, and fertile land making it a welcoming spot for both locals and visitors.
People are drawn to its rich heritage and warm community spirit. More and more people from other countries are choosing to call Yucay home, attracted by its beautiful surroundings and laid-back lifestyle. Yucay is a shining gem in the Sacred Valley, filled with a lively community and a wealth of history and culture.
It offers a special experience for travelers who want to connect with the Andean way of life. From the ancient terraces to the lively local market, there is so much to discover in Yucay. Visitors are sure to fall in love with its beauty and heritage.
Whether you want to learn about its past or simply enjoy the breathtaking landscapes, Yucay promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Sacred Valley that you can in just a full day!
Viagens Machu Picchu can help you arrange your tours to other attractions in Cusco, such as Maras, Moray, the Inca Trail, and more. Contact us to start planning the trip of your dreams!
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