Rumichaca: History of the Stone Bridge and Routes to the Selva

Rumichaca brings together a history of a stone bridge passed down through generations and a route that reaches the transition to the Selva beyond the town. On the descent, waterfalls can be seen on the mountain slopes during the rainy season; from a bend beyond Rumichaca, there is a different view of the road, the pampa, and Pallqa. Local traditions of origin and a historic communal welcome are also part of the picture of the area. These features make Rumichaca interesting if you would like to discover its landscape and cultural history together.

The name and the former stone bridge

The name Rumichaka is locally interpreted as “stone bridge.” In the past, a broad stone approximately four meters long served as a bridge over the Rumichaka River. Groups of people traveling toward the Selva of the VRAE used this former bridge. The interpretation of the name, the river crossing, and the direction of travel thus come together in a local history of routes toward the Selva. If you are planning a trip with children, this offers a simple question to consider together: Why might a stone over the river have been important to travelers?

Traditions of origin and a communal welcome

Local accounts describe the community of Rumichaka as direct descendants of the Chanka. Another historical account tells of the Ñan rutuy (“Monte ñan”): arriving communities were met by community members in Rumichaca, after which the walk continued to Pallqa. The two themes offer different perspectives: the tradition of origin focuses on the community, while the story of the Ñan rutuy is about being welcomed and continuing the journey. In Rumichaca, you will encounter cultural traditions that relate both to the community and to its place along a sequence of routes.

Getting there and the route toward the Selva

At the Ancceaqasa pass, the road to Rumichaca branches off to the left. It continues to Villa Aurora, Chinchibamba, and Moyabamba. Beyond Rumichaca, the route reaches the transition to the Selva. The sequence is clear: after the turnoff at the pass come Rumichaca and then the route to the transition. Road conditions and transport options can change; check both before traveling.

Waterfalls and views of the landscape

During the rainy season, numerous waterfalls flowing down the mountain slopes can be seen on the descent to Rumichaca. How clearly they can be seen depends on the rainfall. A bend beyond Rumichaca also offers a view of the road leading into the depths of the Selva, as well as the pampa and Pallqa Hill. These are two different perspectives: on the descent, the waterfalls on the slopes take center stage; from the bend, the view is of the road, the pampa, and Pallqa.

Choose your travel dates and vacation rental

If you are considering Rumichaca for your trip, first decide whether your plans are driven more by the landscape or by the area’s history. Rainy season and rainfall determine whether the waterfalls are flowing; the history of the stone bridge, the Chanka tradition, and the Ñan rutuy offer historical and cultural points of interest. Use these factors to guide your search for a vacation rental and include your preferred travel dates in your plans. Match your travel arrangements to the route, too, and check road conditions and transport options in advance.

Discover more destinations:

San Francisco, Huanta, San Pedro

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