Textile Interpretation Tour in Chinchero

Textile Interpretation Tour in Chinchero

1. Pick up in Cusco and departure to Chinchero:

Start of the textile interpretation tour in Chinchero with views of the Sacred Valley and the snow-capped mountains of Salkantay, Veronica, and Chicon; introduction to the Qhapaq Ñan and its historical role in the exchange of fibers and natural dyes.

2. Racchi Viewpoint:

Photo stop at Inca terraces and native potato crops; explanation of high-altitude agricultural adaptation and its relationship to authentic Andean textiles.

3. Entrance to Chinchero – Community Textile Center:

Welcome ritual in Quechua, mate de muña (herbal tea), and presentation of the Chinchero fair trade project that empowers local artisans.

4. “From Fiber to Yarn” Module:

Demonstration of responsible alpaca or sheep shearing, ecological washing with maguey root, manual carding, and spinning practice with a pushka; souvenir of 20 cm of alpaca yarn spun by the visitor.

5. Natural dye workshop:

Making pigments with cochineal (carmine red), broom (yellow), walnut (brown), and molle (green); adjusting tones with lemon, salt, or ash; dyeing two mini-balls of yarn to take home, highlighting the sustainability of Andean textile art.

6. Interpretation of the Quechua backstrap loom:

Setting up the warp, using the sarta and controlling tension with the hips; cultural significance of the pallay (chakana, ñawi, q’enqo) and guided weaving of 5 cm using the kata technique, highlighting the strength of alpaca fiber.

7. Optional visit to the colonial church and Inca terraces:

600 m walk through agricultural terraces and viceregal temple with Quechua-Baroque frescoes (partial tourist ticket not included).

8. Ecological stop at Piuray Lake:

Observation of Andean grebes and giant coots; explanation of the link between water, high-altitude agriculture, and natural dyeing processes used in Chinchero textiles.

9. Return to Cusco and farewell:

Digital satisfaction survey and gastronomic recommendations (Andean quinotto, trout al tumbo) to close a day of cultural tourism in Cusco focused on the Quechua textile tradition.

Includes – Textile Interpretation Tour in Chinchero

• Tourist transportation Cusco ⇄ Chinchero in modern vehicles (air conditioning, seat belts in all seats, SOAT insurance, and GPS monitoring) for a safe trip through the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
• Door-to-door pickup from hotels in the Historic Center of Cusco and return to the same point at the end of the experience.
• Certified bilingual cultural guide, specialist in Andean textiles, who interprets the legacy of the Qhapaq Ñan, Quechua waist loom techniques, and the history of natural dyes.
• Andean welcome ritual: muña or coca tea, aromatic sprinkling, and kiwicha pop snack with organic honey to acclimatize to 3,780 meters above sea level.
• Entrance fee and direct donation to the “Awak Wasi” Community Textile Center, endorsed by the Chinchero fair trade seal; contributes to the economic empowerment of Quechua artisans.
• Complete workshop “From fiber to thread”: ethical alpaca shearing, ecological washing with maguey root, manual carding, spinning with pushka, and twist control.
• Practical session on natural dyes: preparation of pigments with cochineal (carmine red), broom (yellow), walnut (brown), and molle (green), plus variation of tones with lemon, ash, or mineral salt.
• Demonstration and participation in traditional weaving; warp assembly, reading of pallay (chakana, ñawi, q’enqo) and guided weaving of 5 cm in alpaca fiber.

Not included – Textile Interpretation Tour in Chinchero

• Partial Tourist Ticket (40 PEN) for the colonial church and Inca terraces of Chinchero, recommended to extend the cultural route.
• Lunch: option of Andean box lunch (quinoa, organic chicken, seasonal fruit) or free time for a restaurant in the Sacred Valley at an additional cost.
• Voluntary tips for the guide and artisans; suggested as a gesture of appreciation for the service and quality of the authentic Andean textiles.
• Personal purchases at the textile market (ponchos, sashes, tapestries); it is advisable to bring cash in soles to support fair trade without commissions.
• Personal expenses: extra drinks, snacks outside the itinerary, use of paid restroom facilities en route.

Recommendations for the Textile Tour in Chinchero

1. Bring warm clothing. Chinchero is located at over 3,700 meters above sea level. The weather is cold for most of the year, especially in the mornings and evenings. We recommend wearing a windbreaker jacket, hat, and scarf.
2. Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes
   During the tour, you will visit cobbled areas and viewpoints with uneven paths. Sports or trekking shoes are ideal.
3. Stay hydrated
   The altitude can cause fatigue and dehydration. Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
4. Protect yourself from the sun
   Although the weather can be cold, solar radiation is intense at high altitudes. Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or cap.
5. Bring cash in soles
   It is common to find unique handcrafted textiles in community textile centers. Some communities do not accept cards, so it is useful to bring cash for direct purchases.
6. Participate actively in the workshop
   The experience is more enriching when you interact with the weavers. Ask questions, touch the fibers, try out the looms, and learn about natural dyes.
7. Be respectful of the local culture
   This tour is an opportunity to connect with the Andean worldview. Listen carefully, ask permission before taking photographs, and appreciate the craftsmanship.
8. Avoid eating heavy meals before the trip
   Due to the altitude, it is best to eat lightly before the tour to prevent stomach upset or altitude sickness.
9. Bring a light backpack
   Bring only what you need: a jacket, water, camera, sunscreen, and some money. Avoid carrying unnecessary weight.
10. Enjoy and value fair trade
    This tour promotes local development through fair trade. Every product you buy contributes to the well-being of Quechua weaving families.

Frequently Asked Questions – Textile Tour in Chinchero

1. Where is Chinchero located and at what altitude?
Chinchero is located 28 km northwest of Cusco, at an altitude of approximately 3,760 meters above sea level. It is known as the “Land of the Rainbow” and is famous for its Inca and textile heritage.

2. How long does the textile tour in Chinchero last?
The tour lasts approximately half a day (4 to 5 hours), depending on the pace of the group and the time you wish to spend on each activity.

3. Is previous experience required to participate in the workshops?
No, the tour is designed for all audiences. Local weavers guide visitors step by step through the process of spinning, natural dyeing, and weaving.

4. Can textiles be purchased during the visit?
Yes. At the end of the workshop, visitors can purchase handmade products directly from the weavers, with a fair trade guarantee.

5. Is the tour suitable for children and seniors?
Yes, the tour is low difficulty and suitable for all ages. It is recommended to bring a coat, water, and to move slowly due to the altitude.

6. Do I need to book in advance?
We recommend booking in advance, especially during high season (June–August), to secure your spot in the community workshop.

7. How does this tour benefit local communities?
In addition to promoting responsible tourism, the tour directly supports Andean weavers through a fair trade model that ensures equitable and sustainable income.

The 7 Lakes of Ausangate is one of the most popular destinations in Cusco, Peru. We currently offer daily tours to this impressive mountain.

Adult: $45 per adult

Student: $41 per adult