22+ Charming South American Villages of the Andes Mountains

Scattered among the mighty Andes Mountains of South America, tiny communities can be found where traditions remain untouched and ways of life have been passed down from generation to generation.

With these towering mountains come hearty people; the Indigenous people have lived in harmony with these rugged and wild peaks for thousands of years. Hidden in these mountains, find some of the best South American villages, where it’s still possible to hear their ancient languages of Kichwa in Ecuador, or in Peru, Quechua. It’s no coincidence that one of the most powerful dynasties of all time choose these magical mountains to create their empire, the Incas.

The Andes Mountains is one of the most impressive natural wonders on our beautiful Earth. This exquisite mountain chain stretches from the southern most tip of South America in Chile and Argentina up into Colombia, passing through diversity of jungles, páramo (alpine tundra), deserts, cloud forests, and unique landscapes that make this rich continent of South America so diverse. These mountains are unbreakable spanning over a distance of over 5,500 miles.

Here, find charming South American villages of the Andes Mountains throughout the countries of Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Chile. Of course, these stunning mountains continue to lure me in, so this best small towns in South America list will undoubtedly expand and grow. It’s a continued work in progress.

So travel a litte more “off the beaten path” and reap the rewards of these charming South American villages of the Andes Mountains. I’m sharing my favorite small towns in South America.

Table of Contents

• Diverse South American Villages of Colombia
• Traditional South American Villages of Ecuador with Indigenous Roots
• South American Villages of Peru | Lost Civilizations in the Clouds
• Desert South American Villages of Chile
• 22+ Charming South American Villages of the Andes

Diverse South American Villages of Colombia

Colombia has many incredible small villages, that are “off” the normal tourist circuit. From cobblestone streets, and sprawling plazas, to brightly colored villages, these are some worthwhile mountainous South American villages to visit in Colombia.

Jump to | Barichara | Filandia | Iza | Mongui | Villa de Leyva | Guatapé

Barichara Colombia

Barichara’s charm may not be a secret, as it is known as one of Colombia’s most beautiful villages. With its colonial architecture, lovely churches, and laid-back vibe, Barichara is worth the effort.

The picturesque streets of Barichara are made for strolling, so get lost, and wander the few, but beautiful streets that make up this hillside village. Another popular thing to do in Barichara is to take the scenic 5 km stroll through the countryside to Guane. Don’t be surprised if you pass by more goats than humans.

Barichara makes an excellent day trip from San Gil, the adventure-packed city in the north of Colombia. However, Barichara’s slow pace of life may entice you to stay longer than one day.

Reach this village via San Gil | Barichara Highlights: Strolling the Streets & Camino a Guane | Population: 7,000 | Barichara Elevation: 6,309 ft (1,923m) | Sleep here: Traveler Hostel (San Gil) or Browse the Best Places to Sleep in Barichara

Filandia (Department of Quindío)

Hidden away in Colombia’s dreamy coffee region, Filandia is often overlooked by its popular neighbor, Salento. The colorful village of Salento is home to coffee plantations and the stunning Valle del Cocora , a scenic valley filled with unreal-looking Colombian wax palm trees and a popular day hike in Colombia.

Filandia is only a 40-minute bus ride away and boasts colorful colonial buildings, fewer tourists, small coffee farms, amazing farm-to-table eateries, and a more authentic village feel.

Of course, don’t forget to savor those views of the incredibly green and lush Andes Mountains that surround this bright village.

If you love visiting fincas (agricultural farms), there are plenty nearby not only making coffee, but other artisanal products like fresh cheese. Many of these fincas offer seasonal daily menus and goodies from the garden and make for pleasant day trips from Filandia.

Reach this South American village via Armenia | Filandia Highlights: Bright buildings, Coffee Plantations, Farm to table eateries & easy to day trip to Salento | Population: 13,700 | Filandia Elevation: 4,383 ft (1336m) | Sleep here: Bidea Backpackers Hostel or browse Filandia hostels and guesthouses

Iza in Underrated Boyacá

Iza is one of those tiny villages that may just steal your heart. Located in the Boyacá district of Colombia, few tourists visit this truly off-the-beaten-path region in Colombia, making it one of the country’s most authentic destinations.

The small town can be walked within minutes. In the center, find a beautiful plaza and the iconic centerpiece church. You can’t visit Iza without sampling the regional dish, fresh trout. Foodies will love the nearby Plazoleta De Postres (it literally translates to the plaza of deserts), where locals set up tiny stands and serve up regional desserts and coffee.

Iza also has a few basic and not-so-busy curative thermal pools. Try soaking in Piscina Erika, which is less than a 15-minute walk outside of the village. A dip in the healing waters makes for a quiet and relaxing afternoon with the beautiful Andes Mountains in the backdrop.

More Things to Do Near Iza

Iza can be visited as a day trip from the bustling city of Sogamoso, which offers frequent buses that circle around Colombia’s largest lake, Laguna de Tota. Things to do around Laguna de Tota include visiting the village of Aquitania, the simple beach of Playa Blanca, stopping at one of the beautiful lake viewpoints, and seeing locals dressed in traditional clothes, usually with a mule in tow. One interesting highlight is that Lake Tota is surrounded by a plethora of green onion fields.

Iza and the Laguna de Tota is one of Colombia’s best-kept secrets.

Reach this village via Sogamoso | Highlights: Plaza de Postres, Traditional Food, Thermal Baths & the nearby Laguna de Tota | Population: 2,349 | Iza Elevation: 8,399 ft (2,560 m) | Sleep here: Hostal Arrayanes (Sogamoso) or in Iza at Hotel Casitas Barro Iza Boyaca or any of these Iza hotels

Mongui Colombia

While most tourists think Barichara is the most beautiful small town in Colombia, Mongui (Monguí) village makes for some fierce competition. Like most plazas of the Boyacá region, Mongui’s center square is large with a center-piece church. Many of the streets are lined with picturesque houses, accented by red, green, and gold shutters and doors. Look for colorful planting pots filled with red flowers. One of the best things to do in Mongui is to hike the Paramo de Oceta.

Paramo de Ocetá

Mongui is the gateway to the Páramo de Ocetá. A páramo is a unique ecosystem that is found high in the mountains. The high-altitude alpine terrain is similar to that of a tundra, providing a harsh landscape where only a few plants can grow.

Two of the most abundant plants that grow at this high altitude in the Colombia paramo are the Frailejones and lichen. The frailejones are a distant relative of the sunflower and grow on the barren plateau above 3,000 meters. These fascinating perennial subshrubs are the heart of this ecosystem, can live hundreds of years, and grow about one centimeter per year. Yeah, plants are pretty cool!

Before the Spanish invasion, the páramo in this region of Colombia was inhabited by the Musica, an Indigenous tribe that lived in complete harmony with nature. The Páramo de Ocetá was their sacred land. From Mongui, it’s possible to hike up to the paramo, which tops off at a staggering 12,800 feet (3,900 m). Although you can independently hike here, it’s best to take a guide as there have been some major boundary disputes with local farmers.

☛ Travel Inspiration | Want to see more of this unique paramo landscape? Visit Cajas National Park in Ecuador to experience a different paramo terrain.

In the Plaza de Armas of Mongui, multiple tour companies offer guided day trips through the paramo for super reasonable prices.

Reach this village via Sogamoso | Monguí Highlights: The white buildings accented with green and red & Hiking Páramo de Ocetá | Population: 4,700 | Mongui Elevation: 9,500 ft (2,900 m) | Sleep here to connect with nature: Hospedaje Las Cabañas or browse the best Mongui hotels & guesthouses

Villa de Leyva Colombia

With its lovely whitewashed buildings, inviting squares, cobblestone streets, and churches scattered around town, this famous South American village in Colombia looks more like it belongs in Europe’s own Andalusia, Spain. Villa de Leyva has a huge main plaza littered with boutique coffee shops and artisanal shops. Since it’s located only a few hours from Colombia’s capital city, Villa de Leyva is a popular day trip from Bogota. Therefore, it’s best to visit Villa de Leyva during the weekdays.

Surrounded by the Andes Mountains, this little village is the perfect place to chill out and recharge. There are still plenty of things to do in Villa de Leyva and the nearby areas like visit the unique Terracotta House or stop by one of the vineyards.

Reach this village via Bogotá | Highlights: The Plaza de Armas & picturesque streets | Population: 17,000 | Villa de Leyva Elevation: 7,051 ft (2,150 m) | Sleep here: Casa Beija Flor | More Villa de Leyava Hotels & Guesthouses

Guatapé Colombia

Less than 2 hours away from Medellín, Guatapé is one of the most colorful South American villages. Guatapé is known for its brightly colored buildings and their unique “zócalos.” A Zócalo is a raised design that is found along the baseboards of many of the buildings and homes in Guatapé.

What’s fun is to wander the streets and guess what the local business is by observing their distinct zócalo. See that man sculpted on the side of a building with a beer belly playing pool? Yep, this establishment is a pool hall! What about the carving of a man sleeping at the bar? Welcome to the local watering hole.

One of the most colorful places in the entire village of Guatape is the vivid Plazoleta de Los Zócalos. This funky plaza is surrounded by artisanal shops and restaurants. Besides the colorful streets, Guatapé is built around a man-made reservoir.

Hike Piedra del Peñol

Arguably, one of the top things to do in Guatapé is to hike up the Piedra del Peñol. The best views of Gutapé come from the giant rock of Piedra del Peñol. Sitting perfectly on the reservoir, tackle the 659 steps that climb along the sides of the giant rock.

Once you reach the top, savor those views at a little over 7,000 feet. Located only a few miles from the village of Guatapé, it makes an enjoyable walk or ride in a colorful moto.

Reach this village via Medellín | Guatepé Highlights: Wandering the colorful streets and appreciating the zócalos, Plazoleta de Los Zócalos & Penale, Piedra del Peñol | Population: 5,000 | Guatape Elevation: 6,200 ft (1,890 m) | Sleep here: Lake View Hostel | More Guatape Hotels & Places to Sleep

Traditional South American Villages of Ecuador with Indigenous Roots

Ecuador’s traditions and Indigenous roots hold strong in a constantly changing modern world. Most travelers tend to skip this magical country, or only breeze by on their way to the Galapagos Islands. It’s such a shame because some of the most authentic South American villages can be found untouched in the mountains of Ecuador.

In most of these Ecuador Highland villages, it’s possible to hear the Indigenous language of Kichwa being spoken. From traditional markets, volcanic views, and hiking trails, to the “valley of longevity,” add these adorable Ecuador villages to your Ecuador itinerary.

Jump to | Otavalo | Mindo | Machachi | Isinliví | Alausi | Artisan Villages Near Cuenca | Saraguro | Vilcabamba

Otavalo Ecuador

Otavalo is located in the north of Ecuador and is most famous for its bright and colorful market. These handicrafts are created and made with love by the Indigenous People and sold at the Plaza de Ponchos. Wander the colorful market to find signature beaded jewelry, textiles, hats, and more. The busiest day to visit the Otavalo Market is on Saturday, but the plaza has vendors set up every day.

Nestled in the incredible Andes Mountains, there are plenty of outdoor activities and things to do in Otavalo. Nearby take a day trip to the Peguche waterfall, or visit Reserva Cotacachi Cayapas. Hike around the stunning crater lake of Cuicocha, or “cuy lake.” The name comes from the small island inside the crater, which the locals say resembles a guinea pig.

Reach this village via Quito | Highlights: Plaza de Ponchos & “Cuy Lake” | Population: 39,350 | Otavalo Elevation:  8,307 ft (2,532 m) | Sleep here: Hostal Chasqui or browse the best Otavalo Hotels

Mindo Ecuador

Mindo is less than 2 hours from busy Quito, but it feels like stepping into another reality. Nestled in the heart of a unique ecosystem, this lovely Ecuador village is an ideal place to relax, hike by seven waterfalls in the Mindo Waterfall Sanctuary, and experience an Ecuador cloud forest. Mindo lies on the western slopes of the Andes Mountains and is a world-class spot for bird watchers.

This small town in the Andes Mountains offers more than outdoor activities, enjoy a freshly roasted coffee, or take a chocolate tour.

Those looking for something different will love Hayulima Spiritual Center, a truly healing place to work with master plant medicines, or simply sit in an authentic Temazcal ceremony.

Reach this village via Quito | Mindo Highlights: Cloud Forests, coffee, and bird watching | Population: 3,842 | Mindo Elevation: 4,190 ft (1, 277m) | Sleep here: El Descanso or browse the best Mindo Guesthouses

Machachi

Machachi is located in the heart of the “Avenue of Volcanoes.” Believe it or not, there are EIGHT, yes eight volcanoes that surround this small Ecuador village. One of the most famous is Cotopaxi, at a staggering 19,347 feet, this is the world’s tallest active volcano.

Without a doubt, The Secret Garden Cotopaxi is THE destination lodging to explore the surrounding volcanoes, savor the views, and relax.

The Secret Garden Cotopaxi

This incredible hostel helps make Machachi and its natural wonders accessible to travelers of all styles. The Secret Garden Cotopaxi is the gateway to a wide range of outdoor activities.

☛ Travel Tip Coming from Quito? Daily shuttles depart from the Secret Garden in Quito, which has some of the best views in Quito.

Whether looking to relax in a hammock, appreciate the views, hike the grounds, or take a day trip up one of the volcanoes in “Volcano Alley,” all of that is possible here. This lodge has no Wi-Fi and all the meals are eaten family-style, so it may not be everyone’s cup of tea. However, with its free hikes and daily activities, the Secret Garden Cotopaxi is a highlight and one of the best places to visit in Ecuador.

Reach this village via Quito | Highlights: Volcanoes, Volcanoes, & more Volcanoes | Population: 34,283 | Machachi Elevation: 9,469 ft (2,886 m) | Sleep here: Secret Garden Cotopaxi

Isinliví Ecuador

Isinliví is a tiny town in the Ecuadorian Highlands. Most hikers opt to sleep here at least one of the nights while hiking the Quilotoa Loop that twists through the mystical Andes mountains. The village is quite isolated, and most travelers reach the hilltop town via hiking from either Sigchos or Chugchilan. However, if you don’t feel like hiking in, catch a bus from Latacunga.

Although tiny, this village often becomes a favorite among hikers completing the 3-day Quilotoa Loop hike. Isinlivi boasts a small mirador trail, colorful houses, plenty of hiking trails, and the charm of the Andes Mountains. Don’t miss the small church that features the works of the village’s own woodworking artisan. Sleep in one of the guesthouses in town, which includes a hearty dinner and breakfast.

The ultimate reward after 3 days of walking is to gaze upon the grand finale glistening Quilotoa Crater Lake.

Reach this village via Latacunga | Highlights: Small village along the Quilotoa Loop Trek | Population: 3,227 (Parish) | Elevation: 9,655 ft. (2,943 m) | Sleep here: Llullu Llama Mountain Lodge or Hostal Taita Cristobal

Alausí Ecuador

Alausi Ecuador is a “pueblo magico,” or magical village in Ecuador that is most famous for its Devil’s Nose train that cuts through the steep Andes Mountains. Although the Devil’s Nose train is currently not running, it’s still possible to appreciate the Devil’s Nose, or “la Nariz del Diablo,” by hiking it.

The Devil’s Nose hike has multiple routes, but I love this one that stops at the Condor Puñuna viewpoint and continues through the Nizag community.

Alausi is a colorful Ecuador village that boasts a unique history, beautiful green plazas, an old bull ring, and an authentic Sunday Market. Many of the nearby Ecuador Highland villages fill the streets to sell artisan goods, fresh produce, and bulk items.

Alausi is also the gateway to some of Ecuador’s most stunning and untouched hiking trails, like the Ecuador Inca trail. This intrepid 3-day trek follows the old Inca road system, Qhapaq Ñan, weaves through Sangay National Park past alpine lakes, and finishes at the largest Ecuador Inca ruins of Ingapirca Archaeological Complex.

Reach this village via Riobamba or Cuenca | Highlights: Devil’s Nose Train | Population: 5,563 | Elevation: 7,700 ft (2,347 m) | Sleep here: Community Hostel Alausi | Browse the Best Alausi Hotels & Guesthouses

Artisan Villages Near Cuenca

The colonial city of Cuenca is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with bustling local markets, cobblestone streets, beautiful architecture, and an enticing foodie scene. Don’t forget about the hillside hot springs of Baños de Cuenca.

The city of Cuenca is a must-see when traveling through South America, but those interested in cultural experiences should visit the nearby artisan villages of SigSig, Chordeleg, and Gualaceo.

SigSig is known for its handmade Panama hats and untouched Cañari ruins. Chordeleg boasts a beautiful center square and is known for its distinct Filigree jewelry, pottery, and other artisan goods. Don’t miss the street lights dressed in their best earrings, or walking into a hidden plaza in one of the shops surrounding the plaza.

Gualaceo is famous for its macanas, which are beautiful textiles that are similar to a shawl. This Ecuador village also boasts stunning orchid greenhouses and a bustling market to sample typical dishes like cuy (guinea pig), torillas de choclo, and the slow-roasted pig hornados.

These artisan Ecuador villages are easy day trips from Cuenca and all of them can be visited in a full day.

➜ Find the Best Places to stay in Cuenca Ecuador

Saraguro Ecuador

Saraguro may just be one of the best South American villages that still remains a hidden gem. Nestled in the south of Ecuador in the misty Andes Mountains, there are many things to do in Saraguro.

Find interesting sacred Inca sites, a picturesque plaza, and residents who still don their beautiful traditional black clothing with their distinctive white and black spotted hats. The women are the real highlight, as they are dressed immaculately with colorful beads. The best day to visit this lovely village is on a Saturday when the local market is bustling and full of life.

Foodies should make the trip to Saraguro to sample the tasting menu from the treasured Shamuico Espai Gastronòmic, where the head chef Samuel Ortega trained at some of the finest restaurants in Spain. He came back to his roots to open this incredible establishment that focuses on traditional Ecuadorian dishes with a whimsical spin. Of course, all ingredients come straight from the nearby farmers and Saraguro Market.

Saraguro can be visited from Cuenca or from the south via Loja.

Reach this village via Cuenca or Loja | Saraguro Highlights: The Authentic Saturday Market | Population: 30,183 | Saraguro Elevation: 8,261 ft (2,518 m) | Sleep here: Hostal Achik Wasi

Vilcabamba

In the heart of the “Valley of Longevity” is the adorable village of Vilcabamba. This expat-beloved town is surrounded by the green lush Andes Mountains, waterfalls, cloud forests, and boasts the signature landscape rockface, Mandango. The cliff which towers over the town and is a popular day hike.

Vilcabamba’s beauty attracts travelers from all across the globe and with them bringing their own diverse cultures. This little pueblo is a haven for vegan, veggie, and worldly cuisines.

On top of the natural beauty, Vilcabamba attracts a lot of yogis and spiritual travelers looking to try the healing vines of the plant medicines of ayahuasca and hauchuma (San Pedro). In town find eclectic coffee shops and yoga studios, creating almost a hippy vibe.

Hostal Izhcayluma

A true highlight of Vilcabamba is Hostal Izhcayluma. This beautiful property sits a little above Vilcabamba but offers private and shared rooms, an included daily yoga class, a restaurant with a view, a pool, a full-service spa, and tons of tours. Hostal Izcayluma is a glimpse of heaven in the Valley of Longevity.

Reach this village via Cuenca or Loja | Vilcabamba Highlights: Serenity in the Valley of Longevity, Climbing Mandago, Lovely Nature & Staying at Hostal Izcayluma | Population: 4,000 | Elevation: 5,233 ft (1,595 m) | Sleep here: Hostal Izhcayluma

Incredible South American Villages of Peru | Lost Civilizations in the Clouds

Located high in the Andes Mountains, Peru boasts relics of lost civilizations and some of the most memorable and picturesque South American villages. Almost all of these Peru villages are surrounded by glacial peaked mountains and have incredible sacred sites. Here are some of the most epic villages of Peru you have to visit.

Jump to | Chachapoyas | Yanama | Urubamba | Ollantaytambo | Lares | Pacchanta | Yanque

Chachapoyas Peru

Often overlooked the north of Peru has some worthwhile destinations. One of the best small towns in Peru can be found in the village of Chachapoyas. Besides the village being totally adorable, this village is the gateway to Kuelap Fortress, an incredible structure built by the “Cloud Warrior People,” a Pre-Incan civilization.

Chachapoyas is interesting because it sits at the foothills of the jungle, yet still in the Andes Mountains. The climate here is almost tropical and provides some incredible natural sites like the Gocta Waterfall and the Mirador del Cañon de Huancas Sonche.

Reach this village via Chiclayo or Cajamarca | Chachapoyas Highlights: Kuelap Fortress & Gocta Waterfall | Population: 32,026 | Chachapoyas Elevation: 7,661 ft (2,335 m) | Sleep here: Chachapoyas Backpack Hotel | Browse the Best Places to Sleep in Chachapoyas

Yanama Near Choquequirao Archaeological Park

Chances are you’ve never heard of the tiny hamlet of Yanama. It sits hidden away in the Andes Mountain and is en route on the epic multi-day Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek. This 9-day trek gets really off the beaten path, feels like a true expedition, and is one of the best alternative treks to Machu Picchu.

Yanama is the first village you will come to after hiking from the Choquequirao ruins.

Reaching Yanama is an adventure in itself. Before being welcomed by the warm and amazing Yanama community, the night before is a wild camp near a river. The next day, climb the grueling, yet stunning San Juan Pass at a breathtaking 13,615 ft. Yanama is the next village after the descent from the pass.

Yanama village is only a few homes, a soccer field, and a couple of tiendas. There is an awesome little restaurant, which is basically a table set up in one of the local’s homes. Look for women selling their handmade artisanal goods.

🥾 Cusco Trekking Guide Tips & Best Cusco Multi-day Treks

Those views of the surrounding glacial peaked mountains may convince you to stay longer. There’s a simple lodge, Camping Choquequirao, that provides simple rooms and plenty of green space to pitch a tent.

Reach this village hiking via the San Juan Pass from Choquequirao | Highlights: The views hiking the nearby mountains & local artisanal products | Population: no official numbers | Yanama Peru Elevation: 11,875 ft (3,620 m) | Sleep here: Camping Choquequirao

Urubamba Peru

Close to the Imperial City of Cusco lies the spectacular Sacred Valley of Peru with its natural treasures, Inca ruins, and endless hiking trails. Urubamba is centrally located in this luscious valley and offers a lively and convenient central bus terminal, making it the perfect base to explore all the riches of the region.

Urubamba may not be one of the most picturesque villages in Peru, like Pisac down the road, but it may be one of the most authentic. In Urubamba, find a weekly market, where locals come down from the mountain villages wearing their traditional clothing. On top of that, there are two buzzing daily markets, including a pretty flower market.

Urubamba has a cozy main plaza, plenty of yummy restaurants serving up fresh menus, and tons of trails that leave the village and lead to hidden gems. Some of the best Sacred Valley hikes depart right from Urubamba.

Urubamba Hidden Gems

There are so many incredible things to do in Urubamba Peru. Saywa Mountain sits in the backdrop, this magical mountain is tied to old Quechua legends. Climb to the top to savor incredible views of the entire Sacred Valley, and find two peculiar Inca ruins. The views of Chicón Mountain are top-notch.

There’s also the long and tough trek up to Laguna Juchuycocha, an alpine lake that sits at a staggering 15,200 feet.

The Salt Flats of Maras are becoming a popular destination. Just down the road from Urubamba, it’s possible to hike to the Salt Mines and reach them via the back entrance. From there, continue all the way to the incredible Moray Archaeological Park.

This jaw-dropping Inca site is one of the 16 points of interest on the worthwhile Cusco Tourist Ticket or Boleto Turístico Cusco. The sites of the Cusco Tourist ticket can be visited without a tour.

Reach this village via Cusco | Urubamba Peru Highlights: Gateway to the Sacred Valley, Saywa Mountain, Authentic Markets & Laguna Juchuycocha | Population: 2,700 | Urubamba Elevation: 9,420 ft (2,871 m) | Sleep here: Browse all the best Urubamba hotels and guesthouses

Ollantaytambo Peru

Ollantaytambo is arguably one of the best small towns in Peru. This picturesque village in Peru boasts cobblestone streets with Inca canals cutting through them. These adorable streets are a treat to wander.

The main Ollantaytambo attraction is the stunning hillside ruins of the Ollantaytambo Archaeological Park. This Peru village is also the gateway to visit Machu Picchu, arguably one of the most famous landmarks in Peru.

Unique Things to Do in Ollantaytambo Peru

There are so many awesome things to do in Ollantaytambo and the village offers tons of free Inca ruins and some of the best Sacred Valley hiking trails.

On the hillside, visit Pinkuylluna, or the remnants of the Inca’s granaries. Quellorakay is a few blocks from the Plaza de Armas and offers great views of the old Inca Quarry roads on the hillside.

Adventure hikers can climb the Old Inca Quarry Trail up to the awesome Sun Gate (Inti Punku), with marvelous views of Mount Veronica looming perfectly in the backdrop. Close to the village find the Pre-Inca ruins of Pumamarca, which are actually in the shape of a Puma.

A short 5-minute bus ride away in Pachar is the entrance to a couple of free great hikes, including Ñaupa Iglesia, a peculiar “dimensional portal.” Down the road from this must-see site is the Perolniyoc Waterfall, which sits beautifully carved into a red cliff. Take the path to the top of the waterfalls to visit the Raqaypata Archaeological Park.

As you can see, the Sacred Valley is definitely worth visiting!

Reach this village via Cusco | Highlights: Gateway to Machu Picchu, Picturesque Streets, & Inca Sites | Population: 2,000 | Ollantaytambo Elevation: 9,337 ft (2,846 m) | Sleep here: Browse the best Ollantaytambo Hotels & Guesthouses

Lares

Nestled in the mountains behind the Sacred Valley, find the small village of Lares. This pueblo is getting quite a bit of buzz as an alternative trek to reach Machu Picchu. The villages that surround Lares are known for their handmade artisan woven textiles.

The Lares Trek is commonly a 3-day trek that weaves through tiny communities. Lares Valley is becoming more known as an alternative trek to Machu Picchu. To get a feel for this lesser-visited region, try the one-day Lares Valley trek over the Huilquijasa Pass.

Another highlight of Lares is the natural thermal pools, the Lares hot spring. These curative hot springs are a favorite among locals and make for a totally relaxing way to spend the day.

✈ Peru Travel Planning | Visit these 14 wonderful Peru aguas termales

Lares can be reached via Calca in the Sacred Valley. The bus ride out to Lares Valley is a stunning journey. Along the way, find less trekked Inca sites like Ancasmarca, which are visible from the hillside.

Reach this village via Calca | Highlights: Lares Trek & Lares Hot Springs | Population: 7,000 (District) | Lares Elevation: 10,330 ft (3,150 m) | Sleep here: campsites & rooms available at the hot springs

Pacchanta

Sitting at the foothills of the mighty Ausangate Mountain is the tiny village of Pacchanta. Although the village itself is only made up of a few homes, tiendas, and one restaurant, the main draw is the public baths that can be found in the center.

These simple hot springs are the perfect way to unwind after one of the world’s most beautiful hikes, the Ausangate Trek. This incredible 6-day high-altitude trek in Peru never dips below 14,000 feet and can include the popular Rainbow Mountain.

If not looking to hike one of Cusco’s top treks, opt to stay in Pacchanta and take some day hikes. The Ausangate Seven Lakes hike is a nice day hike option.

Reach this village from Cusco via Tinki | Highlights: Ausangate Trek & Pacchanta Hot Springs | Population: a tiny community | Pacchanta Elevation: 13,779 ft (4,200 m) | Sleep here: In Pacchanta, there are a few lodges around the Hot Springs and some in Upis

Yanque Peru

Yanque is a small town close to the Colca Canyon, the 2nd deepest canyon in the world. It’s possible to explore the popular canyon as a multi-day Colca Canyon trek or via a full-day Colca Canyon tour from the “White City” of Arequipa.

While the canyon is definitely worth a trip, there are some smaller villages nearby that are often overlooked. One of the most special villages outside the ticketed area is Yanque.

Yanque is one of the best small towns in Peru with a cozy feel. In the center of town, find a lovely church with the Andes Mountains in the backdrop. Many of the local people still wear their bright blue clothing.

From Yanque village, there are a ton of free and beautiful day hikes, like the village of Coporaque and the Pre-Inca site of Uyo-Uyo.

There are also interesting Pre-Inca ruins that can be explored on foot. Another bonus is the awesome Yanque hot springs, the result of the distant volcanoes, which oftentimes can be smoldering in the sky. There are a few different soaking facilities, but they all come with stunning views.

Yanque can be reached from Peru’s second-largest city of Arequipa via public transportation.

🍽 Psst… Arequipa has a very distinct and typical cuisine, so it should be on every foodie’s radar! This Arequipa Restaurant guide is a good place to start.

Reach this village from Arequipa via Chivay | Yanque Highlights: Day hikes, Colca Canyon & Yanque Termales | Population: 2,100 | Yanque Elevation: 11,250 ft (3,429m) | Sleep here: Casa Bella Flor or one of the many love Yanque hotels & guesthouses

Desert South American Villages of Chile

Don’t miss San Pedro de Atacama, an arid desert South American village in Chile.

San Pedro de Atacama

San Pedro de Atacama is special. Not only is this “oasis village” located in the Andes Mountains but is also the gateway to the driest non-polar desert in the world, the Atacama Desert. San Pedro de Atacama is super charming. Those cobblestone streets are replaced with dirt but are lined with whitewashed buildings.

San Pedro de Atacama offers tons of unique opportunities to explore the desert and the Antiplano (high plateau) of Chile. There are worthwhile day trips like biking the Catarpe Valley, exploring the Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley), or visiting the hilltop Pre-Inca Fortress of Quitor.

On the outskirts of the pueblo, the desert provides some of the best star-gazing opportunities in the world. Of course, there is a list of diverse and unique day trips to large alpine lakes, geysers, and small Indigenous communities who have called this desert home for thousands of years.

Reach this village via Calama | San Pedro de Atacama Highlights: Strolling the Dirt Streets, Day Trip Excursions & Stargazing | Population: 2,500 | San Pedro de Atacama Elevation: 7,900 ft (2,408 m) | Sleep here: Rey Lagarto Hostel or one of the many San Pedro de Atacama Hotels & Guesthouses

22+ Charming South American Villages in the Andes Mountains

In short, these are some of the most charming South American villages of the Andes Mountains. This impressive mountain chain passes through multiple countries of South America. People have inhabited and lived in peace with these high-altitude mountains of South America for thousands of years.

Many of these South American villages hold true to their ancestral roots, leaving these communities untouched and authentic. These adorable pueblos lay scattered across the continent like a treasure box, just waiting to be explored. Visiting these small towns in South America is the perfect way to travel back in time and appreciate authentic mountain life.

Have you visited any of the above South American villages? Which one of these South American villages was your favorite? Did I miss a village in South America in Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, or Chile? Will you add any of these South American villages to your bucket list? Let me know in the comments below!

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