La Convención, located in Cusco, is one of the region’s lesser-known destinations, yet it is also one of the most surprising. Located between the Andes Mountains and the Amazon River, this province boasts stunning waterfalls, mighty rivers, and lush tropical forests. Its vibrant culture captivates every visitor.
Table Of Content
- Where is La Convención?
- How do you get to La Convención from Cusco?
- Cusco – Abra Málaga – Quillabamba (main route).
- Cusco – Santa María – Santa Teresa – Hidroeléctrica (Alternative Route).
- Tourist Attractions in La Convención, Cusco
- Waterfalls and nature.
- Illapani Waterfall
- Yanay Mandor Waterfall
- Vilcanota River and river beaches.
- Experiential routes and agritourism.
- Culture and Traditions
- Adventure Routes in La Convención (Cusco)
- Go rafting on the Vilcanota River.
- Hike to the waterfalls.
If you’re looking for attractions in Cusco beyond Machu Picchu, La Convención is an ideal place to enjoy nature, adventure, and local cuisine.
Where is La Convención?
It is one of thirteen provinces in the Cusco region, located in the north. Its capital, Quillabamba, is known as the City of Eternal Summer thanks to its warm year-round climate.
Located at the edge of the jungle, La Convención is in a transition zone between the Andes and the Amazon. This gives the area unique landscapes, including forest-covered mountains and fast-flowing rivers, as well as a great diversity of flora and fauna. Recognized as the coffee and fine-aroma cacao capital of Peru, La Convención is an ideal destination for nature and gastronomy lovers.
How do you get to La Convención from Cusco?
The most common way is by road, either by bus, minibus, or private car. There are two main routes:
Cusco – Abra Málaga – Quillabamba (main route).
This route goes directly to Quillabamba, the provincial capital.
The journey takes between five and six hours.
The route crosses the 14,100-foot-high Abra Málaga mountain pass, where you can see impressive snow-capped mountains.
After crossing the Andes, the road descends into the high jungle, where the climate changes radically from Andean cold to tropical heat.
Buses to Quillabamba depart daily from the Santiago terminal in Cusco. There are also vans and minibuses that make the journey.
Cusco – Santa María – Santa Teresa – Hidroeléctrica (Alternative Route).
This route is popular among backpackers traveling to Machu Picchu through the jungle.
From Cusco, it takes about five hours to reach Santa María. Then, continue on to Santa Teresa and finally to Hidroeléctrica. From there, you can walk or take the train to Aguas Calientes.
During the journey, you will pass through areas of La Convención and enjoy its tropical landscapes.
Tourist Attractions in La Convención, Cusco
The province of La Convención is one of the most surprising destinations in Cusco. Located on the edge of the jungle in the northern part of the region, it is known as the coffee and fine-aromatic cacao capital. Its capital, Quillabamba, is known as the City of Eternal Summer because of its warm, sunny climate year-round.
In addition to being an important agricultural center, La Convención boasts waterfalls, rivers, a tropical rainforest, a vibrant culture, and unique cuisine. It is gradually gaining popularity as an alternative tourist destination to the traditional Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu circuit.
Waterfalls and nature.
Siete Tinajas Waterfall.
This is one of the most visited places in Quillabamba. It consists of seven natural pools formed by the Chuyapi River. Its crystal-clear waters and tropical surroundings make it a perfect place to swim, cool off, and spend a day with the family.
Illapani Waterfall
Considered one of the most beautiful in the province, it is characterized by its large waterfall in the middle of a dense forest. It is very popular among adventure travelers and photography lovers.
Yanay Mandor Waterfall:
Located in a more isolated setting, it is ideal for those seeking peace and direct contact with nature.
Vilcanota River and river beaches.
Along the river, small beaches form, such as Malvinas Beach, perfect for enjoying a sunny day and practicing rafting or kayaking.
Experiential routes and agritourism.
La Convención offers not only nature, but also experiential tourism.
One of the most notable is the High Altitude Coffee Route.
The province is a leading producer of world-class coffee. Several farms welcome visitors and show them the entire process, from harvesting and drying to roasting and enjoying a freshly brewed cup of coffee.
Another option is the Fine Aroma Cacao Route.
La Convención’s cacao is internationally recognized and forms the basis for high-quality artisanal chocolates. Tourists can participate in chocolate-making workshops with local producers.
There are also native communities and cultural tourism.
The La Convención rainforest is home to Amazonian communities such as the Matsigenka, who maintain their traditions. Some of these communities offer experiential tourism, allowing visitors to learn about their customs and lifestyle.
Culture and Traditions:
Quillabamba Main Square:
The city center and meeting point for residents and visitors alike. Surrounded by restaurants, cafés, and shops, it’s the perfect place to start an urban tour.
Major festivals:
The Quillabamba Carnival is famous in the region for its comparsas, yunzas, and joy.
Another highlight is the Coffee and Cacao Festival, where local producers showcase the best of their harvest and offer tastings.
Adventure Routes in La Convención (Cusco)
Located at the edge of the Cusco jungle, the province of La Convención is an ideal destination for adventure lovers. Its fast-flowing rivers, mountains, waterfalls, and nature-surrounded trails offer unique experiences combining adrenaline, culture, and tropical landscapes.
Below are the main adventure routes you can enjoy in La Convención:
Go rafting on the Vilcanota River.
The river runs through much of the province and offers perfect stretches for canoeing.
There are levels for all ages and skill levels, from Class II rapids for beginners to Class IV rapids for experts.
Rafting is best enjoyed during the dry season, from April through October.
Popular spots are near Quillabamba and Echarati.
Hike to the waterfalls.
The La Convención waterfalls are an ideal setting for short treks of medium difficulty:
Siete Tinajas has short trails surrounded by vegetation.
Illapani is a more challenging route, perfect for those seeking direct contact with the jungle.
Yanay Mandor: A leisurely hike to a lesser-known waterfall.
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