Things to Do in Caraz

Small museum inside a restored colonial house documenting the 1885 uprising led by Pedro Pablo Atusparia. Exhibits show farming tools, photos, and period furniture.

🕐 Mon–Fri 9am–1pm, 3pm–5pm; Sat 9am–12pm

💡 The caretaker speaks only Spanish but will enthusiastically explain the exhibits. Donations welcome but not required.

A viewpoint on a low hill east of town offering a full panorama of Caraz, the Santa River valley, and the Cordillera Blanca peaks beyond.

🕐 Daylight hours

💡 The dirt path up from Calle 8 de Diciembre is steep and loose near the top. Walking shoes help. Takes 25 minutes from the plaza.

The main square with manicured gardens, tall palm trees, and a bandstand. Benches face the cathedral and the Cerro Chunta mountain backdrop.

🕐 24 hours

💡 Go at dusk when locals gather and the lights on the palm trees switch on. The mountain silhouette is best then.

Pre-Inca ruins on a terraced hillock with stone walls, chullpas (burial towers), and a small reconstructed hut. Views over the valley from the top.

🕐 Always open

💡 The site is unguarded and overgrown in places. Watch for loose stones on the steps. Best light is mid-morning for photos.

Natural thermal pools set in a rocky canyon fed by mineral-rich springs. Three stone pools at different temperatures with a strong sulfur smell.

🕐 Daily 6am–6pm

💡 Go early (before 8am) to have a pool to yourself. Bring your own towel and flip-flops. Entry is 5 soles (about £1) as of 2024.