Andahuaylillas, Peru - Things to See and Do

Things to see and do in Andahuaylillas, Peru

Visited October 2025

Booking through these agencies from here will help support this site at no extra cost to you.

Save on tours & activities with Viator US Ghost Adventures and Haunted Pub Crawls

Andahuaylillas, Peru: The “Sistine Chapel of the Andes”

Nestled in Peru’s lush Sacred Valley of the Incas, the small town of Andahuaylillas is one of the country’s hidden treasures. Known for its breathtaking Church of San Pedro de Andahuaylillas, often called the “Sistine Chapel of the Andes,” this village blends colonial art, Andean culture, and quiet rural charm. Located just 40 kilometers southeast of Cusco, Andahuaylillas makes a perfect stop on the route to Puno or a day trip from the Inca capital.

We visited Andahuaylillas, Peru on 10/21/2025. We were surprised to see palm trees, Spanish moss, and parrots in the town.

A Glimpse into Andahuaylillas, Peru

Andahuaylillas sits at an altitude of about 3,100 meters (10,170 feet) in the Quispicanchi Province of the Cusco region. Though it’s a small town, its rich history and artistic heritage make it one of the most fascinating stops in southern Peru. The area was once part of the Inca Empire, and traces of pre-Columbian culture remain woven into daily life, from local festivals to traditional Quechua spoken by many residents.

But the real reason travelers come here is to witness one of the most extraordinary examples of Andean Baroque art in the world.

The Church of San Pedro de Andahuaylillas

Built in the late 16th and early 17th centuries, the Church of San Pedro Apóstol is a masterpiece of colonial architecture. At first glance, its simple adobe exterior might not seem impressive—but step inside, and you’re transported into a world of gold leaf, intricate frescoes, and ornate paintings that cover nearly every surface.

The church’s ceiling and walls are adorned with vibrant murals depicting scenes from the Bible, painted by local indigenous artists under Spanish guidance. The artwork combines European religious themes with Andean symbolism, creating a visual dialogue between two worlds.

The main altar gleams with gold, and the paintings by Luis de Riaño, a student of the famous Italian painter Angelino Medoro, showcase the fusion of Renaissance and native styles. It’s easy to see why this church is known as the Sistine Chapel of the Andes.

More Things to Do in Andahuaylillas

1. Visit Nearby Villages

Combine your visit to Andahuaylillas with nearby towns on the “Ruta del Barroco Andino” (Andean Baroque Route)—including Huaro, Canincunca, and Cupi—each home to their own stunning colonial churches.

2. Experience Local Culture

The town’s plaza, lined with trees and colonial houses, is a peaceful place to relax. On Sundays, you can explore a local market filled with handmade textiles, ceramics, and traditional Andean food.

3. Explore the Scenic Route from Cusco

The drive from Cusco to Andahuaylillas offers panoramic views of the Andes Mountains, traditional farmlands, and glimpses of rural Peruvian life.

Visitor Information

Location: Quispicanchi Province, Cusco Region, Peru
Best Time to Visit: May to September (dry season)
Getting There: About 45 minutes by car or bus from Cusco

Discover the Heart of Andean Baroque

Visiting Andahuaylillas, Peru, is like stepping into a living museum where art, faith, and history converge. The Church of San Pedro stands as a stunning reminder of Peru’s colonial past and the resilience of Andean creativity. Whether you’re exploring the Sacred Valley or heading toward Lake Titicaca, a stop in Andahuaylillas is an unforgettable glimpse into Peru’s cultural soul.

Thinking of visiting? Viator offers numerous tours in Peru. Click here for details. vi.me/tHK8m