Uyo Uyo Archaeological Complex, Arequipa – Peru

Three hours from Arequipa and only 2.5 kilometers from the town of Yanque, in the province of Caylloma, is this pre-Inca citadel that was inhabited by the Collagua culture more than 500 years ago.

The complex is located at 3,570 meters above sea level and its 5 hectares have four distinct sectors: two urban areas, one dedicated to agriculture and a cemetery.

The site has houses, plazas, cultivation terraces, an astronomical clock and water channels that suggest that it was a place used as a water distribution center for different villages in the Colca Valley. It is still unknown why it was abandoned by its inhabitants.

The site was declared a National Cultural Heritage Site and currently has an interpretation center, vehicle parking, cafeteria, photo room and restrooms.

What to do in the Uyo Uyo Archaeological Complex?

See pre-Inca architecture. You will see a high level of constructive development in its cultivation terraces, water channels that still function and spaces dedicated to social life.

Appreciate the sundial. The astronomical clock shows the importance given to this discipline by the ancient civilizations that inhabited the area.

Stroll through the viewpoints. From the footbridges that are located along the Uyo Uyo you can enjoy beautiful landscapes that contain, among other beauties, the Ampato and Hualca Hualca snow-capped mountains.

Visit the interpretation center and the photography room. In these enclosures it is possible to know more precisely the history of the citadel through written explanations and image documentation.

Walking in an enchanting natural environment. The entire Colca Valley breathes purity and tranquility. The hike from Yanque to the archaeological monument will allow you to appreciate beautiful landscapes and see the local flora and fauna.

How to get to the Uyo Uyo Archaeological Complex?

To go from Arequipa to the Uyo Uyo Archaeological Complex, take the road that leads to Chivay. To do so, take route 34A and then route 1S. Once there, continue on 109 to Yanque. From Yanque to Uyo Uyo Uyo is a hike that takes between 30 minutes and an hour.

Another way is to take a bus from Arequipa’s Terminal Terrestre to Chivay. This trip usually costs between 10 and 15 soles and takes about 3 hours. Upon arriving in Chivay, a bus must be taken to Coporaque or Yanque, which are the closest towns to the citadel and can be reached on foot.

Some tourism agencies offer this excursion as part of the tours that cover different parts of the Colca Valley. If you wish to do it this way, you can go to some of the places in Arequipa’s Main Square that offer these tourist services and ask about the available options.

Recommendations:

Entrance ticket. To access the complex you must pay an entrance fee of 5 soles. Please ask at the box office for student discounts.

Schedules. The complex can be visited at any time of the day.

What to bring? It is recommended to bring comfortable clothes, hiking shoes, water, sun block, hat or cap and if you wish, a walking stick to help you on the hikes.

Best time to visit. The ideal time to visit this resort is between the months of April and November, as there is usually less rainfall than during the rest of the year. If you go outside these months, it is advisable to bring an umbrella and a rain poncho.

If you have any questions about this tour or any other tour such as prices, hotels, itinerary and everything you need to book this tour please contact us at

WhatsApp: +51 947392102 (Click Here)

.

Or send us an email to: contacto@condorxtreme.com and our travel experts will respond as quickly as possible, answering all your questions and / or queries of any particular tour.