Your stay — shanda
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The Property — shanda
Shanda is a family-run 3-star hotel in Pichari, a small town in the Andean highlands. The hotel's rustic charm is evident in its stone façade and wooden accents, which blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. The lobby's warm atmosphere is set by the crackling fireplace and the aroma of traditional Andean coffee. It's a great choice for travellers looking for a peaceful and authentic Peruvian experience, away from the hustle and bustle of larger cities. The hotel's USP lies in its proximity to the nearby Ausangate mountain range, making it an ideal base for trekkers and nature enthusiasts.
Chronicles of Pichari
Pichari is a small town in the Cusco Region of Peru, founded in the 16th century by the Spanish conquistadors. The town's architecture is a mix of traditional Andean and Spanish influences, with many buildings showcasing the region's rich cultural heritage. The town's main square, Plaza de Armas, is a hub of activity, hosting various cultural events and festivals throughout the year. The town's economy is primarily driven by agriculture, with many locals involved in potato farming and livestock. Pichari is also known for its traditional textiles and handicrafts, which are highly prized by visitors.
Best Time to Visit
Full Pichari guide →Best months
The best months to visit Pichari are June, July, and August, when the weather is dry and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C. These months offer ideal conditions for trekking and outdoor activities, with minimal rainfall and clear skies.
Peak / festival surge
The peak tourist season in Pichari is July, with the Fiesta de la Virgen de Urkupiña attracting large crowds. Hotel prices tend to increase during this time, but the event is worth experiencing, with traditional music, dance, and food on offer. The festival is a celebration of the town's patron saint, and visitors can expect a lively atmosphere and cultural events.
Budget shoulder season
The shoulder season for Pichari is April and May, when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. Prices for accommodations are lower during this time, making it an ideal period for budget-conscious travellers. The weather is still pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C.
Weather & packing
Pichari's climate is characterised by sudden changes in temperature, so it's essential to pack layers for your visit. Bring a waterproof jacket and warm clothing for the mornings and evenings, as well as a sun hat and sunscreen for the sunny afternoons.
Live City Briefing — Pichari
- The new bus terminal in Pichari has been upgraded, offering improved transportation links to Cusco and other nearby towns.
- The local market in Pichari has expanded, with more stalls selling traditional handicrafts and textiles.
- The town's water supply has been improved, with new infrastructure projects aimed at reducing water pollution and increasing access to clean drinking water for locals and visitors.
Your Perfect Room
✨ AI-generated · Jul 2026Before you check in to shanda, here's what to know about choosing the right room.
Best rooms to request
Request a room on a higher floor (above the 3rd floor) to minimize potential street noise from Jiron Pichari. The hotel's 3-star rating suggests a basic lift, so expect a slower journey between floors. Avoid rooms near the lift as it may be noisy, especially during peak hours.
Rooms to avoid
Rooms near the lift, particularly on lower floors (1st-2nd) may be noisier due to the lift's frequency and potential street noise.
Best views
None mentioned, but rooms on higher floors may offer a view of the surrounding town.
Quietest floors
4th floor and above
🔊 Noise notes
Street noise from Jiron Pichari may be a concern, especially during peak hours. Additionally, the hotel's basic lift may cause some disruption.
Insider tips
1. Park at the back of the hotel to avoid congestion on Jiron Pichari. 2. Request a room with a window to ensure some natural light and a view of the surrounding area.
- Call the hotel directly 24–48 hours before arrival and ask for a specific room type
- Add a note in your booking comments field
- Ask at check-in — front desk staff can often accommodate if a room is available
Hotel Facilities — shanda
Free, 10 Mbps, no login constraints
Serves all floors, no historic sections with stairs-only access
Complimentary digital newsstand (PressReader) available in lobby
16:00-23:00, early bag-drop not available, late check-out until 13:00 (S/. 50 PEN fee after 12:00)
Limited availability, S/. 10 PEN per piece, per 24 hours
Step-free access to main entrance, wheelchair ramp, no structural limitations
Limited on-site parking (S/. 20 PEN per night), nearest public car park (S/. 15 PEN per day), no EV charging
Fees, Taxes & Deposits
City / tourist tax: S/. 5 PEN per person per night
Deposit & card hold: Advance deposit S/. 100 PEN at check-in, incidental card hold S/. 200 PEN
Local Lifestyle & Recreation
Plaza principal Pichari — 321 m · ~4 min walk
Money & Currency
Get a travel card →Peruvian Sol, PEN
Travellers can exchange currency at local banks or casas de cambio in the town centre, but be aware that airport bureaux may offer poor exchange rates. Additionally, not all establishments may accept USD or credit cards.
Credit cards, including Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted in local businesses, but cash is still king for smaller transactions or at markets. Mobile pay is also becoming increasingly popular.
Tipping is not expected but rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10 PEN for good service is appreciated. Hotel staff and taxi drivers do not expect tips, but rounding up the fare is sufficient.
Eat, Shop & Travel on a Budget
Cheap car hire →A typical cheap coffee can be found at a local café for around 5-7 PEN.
A plate of noodles or a sandwich at a local eatery costs around 10-15 PEN.
A main course at a budget restaurant or food stall costs around 20-25 PEN.
The local market area near the town square offers a variety of street food options, including roasted corn and potatoes.
Local supermarkets like Wong or Tous offer affordable options for groceries, with prices around 10-20 PEN for basic items.
The local market or small shops in the town centre offer affordable clothing options, with prices around 10-30 PEN for basic items.
The cheapest way to get around is by taking a colectivo (shared minibus) for 3-5 PEN. From the airport, a taxi ride costs around 20-30 PEN, while a bus ride costs around 5-10 PEN.
Eat at local markets or food stalls for affordable mealsAvoid exchanging money at the airport or tourist areasUse public transportation or walk whenever possible
Good to know — Pichari
Type A/C · 220V
not safe — drink bottled
$1 ≈ PEN 3.4 · PEN
Emergency Contacts
PichariPichari is in the Cusco region. For rural emergencies, the local police station number is 084-286032. Tourists should also contact their embassy for serious incidents.
💡 Save these numbers in your phone. In life-threatening emergencies, call immediately.
Where to Eat
💡 Booking tip: For popular restaurants in Pichari, book at least a week ahead — especially for weekend evenings and during festival season.
Your arrival at shanda
🕒 Check-in is from . Arriving earlier? Most hotels store luggage free — just ask at reception.
🚐 Pre-book an airport transfer →Getting Around
Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ), Cusco → La Selva Hotel, Pichari
💡 Book a secure, 4x4 vehicle for the rough stretches between Cusco and Pichari. Confirm the driver speaks Spanish and shares a GPS location before departure.
Cusco (Terminal Terrestre), Quillabamba → La Selva Hotel, Pichari
💡 Take the direct combi to Pichari from Quillabamba – locals know ‘colectivo La Selva’. Get off at the town square, then walk 5 minutes east. Cash only, no reservations.
Pichari town square → La Selva Hotel (La Selva entrance road)
💡 Flag a moto-taxi with a red or green stripe – they’ll take you right to the hotel gate. Agree the fare upfront in soles.
Lima (Terminal Javier Prado or Plaza Norte) → La Selva Hotel, Pichari
💡 Use Movil Tours – they have a direct bus to Quillabamba, then switch to a local minibus for the final 45 minutes. Bring your own water and snacks, as stops are short.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best rooms at shanda?
Request a room on a higher floor (above the 3rd floor) to minimize potential street noise from Jiron Pichari. The hotel's 3-star rating suggests a basic lift, so expect a slower journey between floors. Avoid rooms near the lift as it may be noisy, especially during peak hours.
Which rooms should I avoid at shanda?
Rooms near the lift, particularly on lower floors (1st-2nd) may be noisier due to the lift's frequency and potential street noise.
Is shanda noisy?
Street noise from Jiron Pichari may be a concern, especially during peak hours. Additionally, the hotel's basic lift may cause some disruption.
Which rooms have the best views at shanda?
None mentioned, but rooms on higher floors may offer a view of the surrounding town.
What are insider tips for staying at shanda?
1. Park at the back of the hotel to avoid congestion on Jiron Pichari. 2. Request a room with a window to ensure some natural light and a view of the surrounding area.
What time is check-in at shanda?
Check-in at shanda is from null. Check-out is by null.
Does shanda have Wi-Fi?
Free, 10 Mbps, no login constraints
Is there a city or tourist tax at shanda?
S/. 5 PEN per person per night
Where can I eat cheaply near shanda?
A plate of noodles or a sandwich at a local eatery costs around 10-15 PEN.
What is the cheapest way to get around from shanda?
The cheapest way to get around is by taking a colectivo (shared minibus) for 3-5 PEN. From the airport, a taxi ride costs around 20-30 PEN, while a bus ride costs around 5-10 PEN.
When is the best time to visit Pichari?
The best months to visit Pichari are June, July, and August, when the weather is dry and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C. These months offer ideal conditions for trekking and outdoor activities, with minimal rainfall and clear skies.
Top Attractions in Pichari
💡 Try the jugo de camu camu (Amazonian fruit juice) from the juice stalls—it's about 3 soles and loaded with vitamin C.
💡 Cross early in the morning—fewer people, and you might spot river turtles on the rocks below. Wear closed-toe shoes: the wooden slats can be worn.
💡 Go at sunrise—the mist over the river clears and you can see the surrounding coca fields clearly. Take water, as there's no shade.
💡 Visit around 6pm when the town comes alive—kids play football and vendors sell choclo con queso.
💡 Bring insect repellent—sandflies are active near the water. Best visited in the dry season (May–September) when the path is easy to follow.