Basic information

Chivay is a capital of the Cayloma Province, which is the largest in the Arequipa region. It has a central square, an active market and thermal springs 3 km from town. 

Our first impression

The tour guide spoke highly of Chivay, but our impression was different. Because we only saw old houses from the bus, the sight made a poor impression on us and we did not understand the guide's pride. After we had breakfast, we were glad to be about to leave the poor and very cold town.

How we ended up back in there? And after all, why did we decide to stay over night? After our Colca canyon trek, we wanted our journey to be continued in Cusco. Admittedly, getting there was impossible and going back to Arequipa was not in question.

It is wise to leave your backpack in Arequipa, instead of carrying it all the way down and back up in Colca canyon, like we did.

Our decision felt on the city Puno. However, the connection was from Chivay and we had plenty of time to explore the town.

Day One

When we arrived to Chivay, it was not that cold as the last time. That fact did not changed our view at the place, (at least not for the first moments) and we went into the poor and dusty streets for a hostel hunt. We accepted an offer, 60 pen for two nights in hostel El Valle. That is pretty much on that one, no more special review article.

In the Plaza De Armas de Chivay

After we checked in, we went out to eat. The beautiful green square surprised us in the so much affected town by drought. The square also offered many good looking restaurants, but we were looking for cheaper meals, so we found a good one in the next street.

Dine out in the side streets or out of the historic center for better prices.

Day Two

In the morning we went to the local market. Since we found fun in browsing the shops, we spent more time there and stayed for lunch. Of course, the exploration served its purpose and Mathew found his pocket knife and Vanessa discovered her wanted stationery.

video of Local Market and the Plaza De Armas de Chivay

The next thing that impressed us were dancing statues with descriptions of their origin and meaning. It gained our attention and the left time we spent walking through the town and learning more about Peruvian culture.

On the next picture is the character that represents the "supay". Its name is attributed by the sound of the bells make (the lan lan of the bells) that are tied in their body. The Lanlaco dances with steps seems march front, front, back.

SUPAY STATUE IN THE PLAZA DE ARMAS DE CHIVAY

The next statue personifies San Isidro Labrador, the blessed Spanish. He has the same vestment of the blessed San Isidro, who is Lord of farmers. Directs the rite of "pagachi" or box of the farm. He goes with long steps according to the music, making couple with the "jatun mama" (Big Mama).

San Isidro Labrador, the blessed Spanish - statue

Statue in THE PLAZA DE ARMAS DE CHIVAY

Statue in THE PLAZA DE ARMAS DE CHIVAY

Sculpture in THE PLAZA DE ARMAS DE CHIVAY