8 August, 2024
Chivay is a town of Spanish foundation from the time of Viceroy Toledo, which served as a reduction of the native peoples in order to subdue and indoctrinate them to the Christian faith.
It is located at 3,635 meters above sea level on the western slope of the Andes Mountains, in the upper part of the Colca Canyon.
The district has a population of approximately 5,000 inhabitants.
Chivay has the famous thermal baths of La Calera, where you can relax in its natural hot springs surrounded by spectacular scenery. These waters have therapeutic properties that will help you rejuvenate body and mind.
The Chivay market is a vibrant place where you can buy local products, handicrafts and taste the delicious typical food of the region. Be sure to try dishes like chupe de camarones (shrimp chowder), fresh trout and alpaca meat, accompanied by a cup of mate de coca or Colca aniseed.
In the center of town, the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption is a testimony of colonial architecture and a place of great historical and cultural importance for the local inhabitants. Its architecture and religious art will transport you back in time and allow you to better understand the history of the place.
Chivay is also known for its festivities, such as the Feast of the Virgin of the Assumption in August, which includes parades, traditional dances and religious activities that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the area. Colorful traditional costumes and typical dances such as the Wititi are an integral part of these celebrations, offering a vibrant and authentic cultural experience.
