Abancay: Historic Streets and Andean Landscapes

Abancay combines historic sites within the city with natural destinations in the surrounding area. From Calle Miscabamba to colonial architecture and squares with monuments, the city reveals details that are best discovered together. For those who also want to experience the landscape and birdlife, the Rontoccocha Forest and the Quisapata viewpoint offer a different perspective on the trip.

Streets, Squares and Stories

Calle Miscabamba is considered Abancay’s oldest and most popular pedestrian street. Its route, about 200 metres long, preserves historic houses and features colourful murals. The street’s origins date back to 1543. Its history can also be seen in things that play a part in everyday life: local artisan families make traditional ojotas, as well as kitchen utensils, washbasins and foot baths, from recycled tyres. These varied objects turn a walk into an opportunity to learn about local craftsmanship and the reuse of an unusual material.

The Plaza de Armas de Abancay is located in the city centre. Its central pavilion and seven palm trees define the square; each palm represents a province of the Apurímac region. This gives the square regional significance beyond its role as a central gathering place. The Plaza is about 850 metres from the Abancay bus station, a journey of approximately three minutes by taxi. For those arriving by bus, it is a convenient landmark for finding their way into the city centre.

Another place of remembrance is Parque Ocampo in central Abancay. It honours national hero Antonio Ocampo; its construction began in 1902. It is about 400 metres, or a five-minute walk, from the Plaza de Armas. On Plaza Micaela Bastidas, a monument to Micaela Bastidas and colourful murals commemorate another historical figure and give the square its own character.

Colonial Architecture and Local Produce

The Virgen del Rosario Cathedral dates from 1645, during the Spanish colonial period. Another example of historic architecture is Casa Hacienda de Patibamba in the lower part of the city: the estate dates from the 16th century and includes a colonial house with beams, columns, stone steps and a tiled roof. These two sites showcase different examples of Abancay’s historic architecture. Visitors particularly interested in architectural styles and the city’s history can consider them when choosing what to explore.

Food and products from the surrounding area are also part of the city’s character. On feast days, events are held on Calle Miscabamba, including the Anticuchos and Traditional Desserts Festival. Las Américas Market offers a variety of products from the surrounding area. Together, these places offer different points of interest: festive foods and events in one, and regional products in the other. For families, specific themes like these—from palms with regional significance to handmade everyday objects—can provide conversation starters as they explore together.

Nature in the Surrounding Area

The Rontoccocha Forest includes high-Andean wetlands, bofedales, Andean grasslands and Q'euña forests. At least 115 bird species live there. The variety of landscapes and the number of bird species make this natural area a distinct destination alongside Abancay’s historic sites. The Quisapata natural viewpoint lies south of the city. From the summit, visitors can see Abancay, the Santuario Nacional de Ampay and its snow-capped mountain. The surrounding area therefore offers two different ways to experience nature: the habitats and birdlife of the Rontoccocha Forest, or the view from the summit of Quisapata.

When looking for a holiday rental in Abancay, consider whether the city’s cultural sites or the nearby natural destinations will play a greater part in your stay. The distances between the Plaza and the bus station, and between the Plaza and Parque Ocampo, offer practical guidance within the city, but do not indicate the location of any individual accommodation.

Discover More Destinations

For more travel ideas, you can also explore Pampahuasi, Santo Tomás, Cachora, Chalhuanca District and Pampachiri.

For the main travel overview, see: Apurímac.