Huaypo and Piuray lakes: a quiet escape near Chinchero

On the Chinchero plateau, between Cusco and the Sacred Valley, two high-altitude lakes offer scenery very different from the archaeological sites: calm water reflecting the snowy Urubamba range, colourful fields and farming communities keeping their traditional way of life. Huaypo and Piuray are ideal for nature, few people and gentle outdoor activities, and combine easily with Chinchero, Maras and Moray.

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Piuray Lake

Piuray is very close to Chinchero village and is one of the main water sources for Cusco city, so caring for it matters. Its shores, surrounded by pasture and fields, are perfect for walking and watching rural life. Some communities nearby offer homestay-style experiences, such as traditional farming or weaving demonstrations.

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Huaypo Lake

Huaypo lies on the plateau between Chinchero and the Maras area, with views of snowy peaks. It's calm and open, very photogenic in good weather. Reed beds around it shelter waterbirds. Some operators offer kayaking or paddleboarding in season; confirm availability and safety before going.

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Things to do

• Gentle walks along the shores and through the fields.
• Mountain-bike routes on plateau dirt roads, often combined with Maras and Moray.
• Kayaking or paddleboarding, depending on operator and season.
• Birdwatching with binoculars.
• ATV rides included in some tours of the area.
• Landscape photography with snowy peaks behind.

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Getting there

• From Cusco: colectivos to Urubamba via Chinchero drop you in Chinchero, a few kilometres from Piuray. From there walk or take a local taxi.
• For Huaypo, a taxi from Chinchero is easiest, or include the lake in a bike or ATV tour.
• By private car or taxi from Cusco, the plateau is about an hour away, depending on traffic.

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How to combine them

A full day can include Chinchero village and archaeological site, Piuray, Huaypo and, heading down to the valley, Moray and the Maras salt pans. Many bike and ATV routes cover exactly this area. With half a day, Chinchero and Piuray is the simplest combo.

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Altitude and weather

The plateau sits at about 3,700 m, higher than Cusco. Mornings and evenings are cold and wind can be strong, especially in the dry season. The sun is very intense: sunscreen, cap and sunglasses are essential. In the rainy season dirt roads can get muddy and afternoons bring storms.

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Respect and sustainability

• The lakes are surrounded by community farmland and grazing: don't cross fields or leave gates open.
• Leave no rubbish and avoid swimming or using soap in Piuray, which supplies Cusco's water.
• Ask before photographing people.
• For community activities, book directly or with operators that work fairly with communities.

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What to bring

• Warm layers and a windbreaker.
• Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.
• Water and snacks: few services by the lakes.
• Cash for local taxis and small purchases.
• Comfortable walking shoes.

When to go

The dry season, roughly May to September, brings clear skies and sharp views of the peaks, though the land is yellower and mornings very cold. In the rainy season, November to March, fields are green and the lakes fuller, but afternoons often bring showers. Early morning is best for reflections on the water, before the wind picks up.

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Suggested bike route

1. Transfer by vehicle from Cusco to Chinchero with the bikes.
2. Ride to Piuray and back along rural tracks.
3. Continue across the plateau to Huaypo.
4. Descend towards Moray and Maras.
5. Final descent to the Urubamba valley and return by vehicle.

It suits acclimatised riders with basic experience; go with a guide if you don't know the area.

Community tourism

Some plateau communities let you join activities such as potato planting or harvest, preparing a pachamanca or weaving workshops. These bring direct income to families. Check what each offer includes and who organises it.

Notice: This guide shares advice and recommendations based on research and local experience. Prices, opening hours and rules may change: always check with official sources and operators. Cusco Tips is not responsible for third-party services, bookings or decisions made using these guides; some links are affiliate links (see our affiliate policy).