The turquoise pools of Muñapata are a set of turquoise mirrors located in a canyon, which have an incredible beauty, combined with the rock formations and the natural environment that give it a unique landscape. During the pandemic, many attractions were discovered in Cusco, this is the case of this natural wonder located in Urcos: The turquoise pools of Muñapata. Specifically, these species of pools became known thanks to the viralization of a video through TikTok that showed this place and the beauty of the colors of its waters.
Turquoise pools of Muñapata
- Location Quispicanchi Province, 56 km south of Cusco
- Distance from Cusco by car approximately 2 hours
- Ticket cost approximately 7 soles
What are the turquoise pools of Muñapata?
These are a tourist attraction that is located in Urcos, province of Quispicanchi in Cusco. It is made up of turquoise-colored water wells that are submerged in the ground, forming pools in a small canyon that belongs to the town of Muñapata. These wells guarantee travelers one of the best postcards and views of Cusco. It is worth mentioning that these waters are not for bathing or cooling off, but rather, they are for human consumption, so they must be taken care of.
How to get to the turquoise pools of Muñapata?
The turquoise pools canyon is located about 56 kilometers by road from the city of Cusco, it belongs to the community of Muñapata, district of Urcos and province of quispicanchi. In order to reach this natural beauty we must follow the following steps: First: To get there you must follow the following route: Cusco – Urcos – Muñapata – Canyon of turquoise mirrors. The first stretch Cusco – Urcos can be done by public transport. The buses leave from Huayruropata street in the city of Cusco. This first section takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes. Second: The second section Urcos - Muñapata can be done in a taxi from the main square of Urcos. This second stretch takes approximately 15 minutes. Third: Finally: Muñapata – Canyon of turquoise mirrors is done on foot. The walk is approximately 20 minutes.
Ticket Cost
- Foreign tourist: 7 soles
- National tourist: 5 soles
- Visitor from Cusco: 3 soles
- Children: 3 soles
Climate in the turquoise pools of Muñapata
The weather in this area is very cold, we recommend dressing warmly and wearing a rain jacket just in case. During the dry season, the days are sunny and in the rainy season, sometimes the days are cloudy.
Why are these pools turquoise?
These waters adopt their turquoise color because they come from the tops of the surrounding mountains and these are saline. Because? because they contain carbonates, especially calcium produced by the erosion of limestone rocks that exist in the bed of this river. Thanks to the sun's rays, they give it a turquoise color that provides this incredible view worthy of any cover.
The trek
The trek from the community of Muñapata to the canyon of turquoise mirrors begins at the turn off of the highway that connects with the "Interoceanic" highway. The route is easy because only at first you ascend. The rest of the way is on flat sections. The route is through narrow paths close to fearsome precipices. The local people have built small bridges and handrails to facilitate access for visitors. In total you walk less than 1 kilometer. The route on foot takes 20 minutes or a little more if you go slowly. It is recommended not to use headphones and be alert to the precipices. However, in general terms the route is considered safe.
The blue water mirror canyon of Muñapata
This tourist attraction stands out for its scenic beauty. The turquoise water pools attract dozens of visitors who can get some of their best photos there on the trip to Cusco. It is currently prohibited to enter the waters of this place. The reason? Local people use this water for their daily needs. Some visitors come there to perform Andean religious ceremonies, such as payment to the land or rituals in honor of water.
What to bring to the visit?
- Good slippers.
- Poncho in case of rain.
- Hat or cap.
- Sunscreen.
- Snacks or fruits.
- Rehydration drinks.
- Documents.
- Photographic camera.
- Cash.
These beautiful pools are very close to other tourist attractions such as the Andahuaylillas temple (known as the Sistine Chapel of America), the Piquillacta archaeological park or the Tipón archaeological complex. All these tourist attractions are included in the famous South Valley tour of Cusco. So, you can not only visit this natural beauty, but also take a walk through historical areas. Let's not forget that these beautiful mirrors are a natural attraction and this must be taken care of. If you liked this content, don't forget to leave us a comment.
More information
During your visit you can enjoy other tourist attractions near Urcos. These are: the colonial temple of Andahuaylillas (known as the Sistine Chapel of America), the archaeological park of Piquillacta or the archaeological complex of Tipón. All these tourist attractions are included in the famous South Valley tour of Cusco. Some tourism agencies already offer the 1-day tour to the canyon of turquoise mirrors. These services have an approximate cost of 50 US dollars per tourist. The tour is private and includes: full transportation, professional tour guide, entrance fees and more. You can get these services through a tourist agency in Cusco or on its website online. The Muñapata mirror canyon is a new natural tourist attraction that must be protected and conserved for the future. The entry of animals or food is not allowed. It is forbidden to throw garbage in the waters or fields of the place. Only in this way can this tourist attraction be preserved for the future.
Best Trekking and Tours in Peru
Many are the routes that take you to Machu Picchu, but none is like the Inca Trail tours, the most famous pedestrian path in the Americas. After flying from the capital of Peru, Lima, you will arrive in Cusco to walk for four days along a path through forests and dense fog, millenary stone steps and discovering the ruins of ancient fortifications and Inca cities, and all the time enjoying majestic views.
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If you want to visit Machu Picchu, we recommend you to book your Machu Picchu ticket in advance, so you will enjoy your vacation in Machu Picchu without any problem.
