Considered one of the largest and most beautiful lagoons in Peru, the Pacucha Lagoon holds an unparalleled wealth, being a natural habitat for a diversity of flora and fauna, it is also an important source of livelihood and development for the local economy.
Table of Contents
Location of the Pacucha Lagoon
Located in the district of Pacucha, 17 km from the capital of the province of Andahuaylas at an altitude of 3,125 m.a.s.l. located between the coordinates: 13°36'27'' south latitude and 79°19'30'' west longitude, it has an area of 152.00 hectares.
It is important because of its volume and nutritional components, its waters are productive, besides being warm and almost sweet. Currently, different species such as trout and lake silverside are being exploited, thus generating new sources of food and work for the benefit of the local inhabitants.
It is surrounded by sand and cattails, which serve as home to different species of wild and migratory birds. Its landscapes are full of eucalyptus forests and areas of agricultural crops such as barley, wheat, peas and tarwi.
Also, on the east side of the lagoon are the archaeological remains of Sondor, belonging to the Chanca culture. One of its peculiarities is the legend around the stone statue of a woman with a child and her lamb looking towards the lagoon, which is said that before the lagoon was formed there was a city that was destroyed by thunder and lightning.
Dimensions
Its dimensions are: maximum length 3,970 m on the east-west axis; maximum width 2,680 m; maximum depth 30 m; volume 118,010,495 m3 .
Temperature
The water temperature in Pacucha lagoon is a minimum of 15°C in June and July and a maximum of 19°C in March and April.
Birds of the Pacucha Lagoon
The Pacucha Lagoon, located in Andahuaylas, Peru, is home to a variety of waterfowl and other species. Algunas de las aves que puedes encontrar allí incluyen el flamenco andino, el pato silbón andino, el gaviota andina, el pato colorado, el pato piquidorado, taguas, y el águila, entre otros. Birding at Pacucha Lagoon offers an exciting opportunity to enjoy the diversity of birds in a beautiful natural high mountain setting.
Legend of the Pacucha Lagoon
Many years ago, before this lagoon, there was a beautiful city considered a "heavenly paradise" due to the natural beauty of its landscapes, inhabited by caring people with humanistic and spiritual principles.
As time went by, people from other places appeared, bringing strange customs, forming a society of corruption, injustice and wickedness. One day an old man showed up asking for charity in a house where a marriage was being celebrated with great pomp. Seeing him ragged and dirty, he was thrown out by force and insulted.
Walking down a rough street the old man meets a woman named "Mama Petecc" who takes him into her home and provides food for the old man. The old man by way of thanks orders the woman to leave the village and take her son with her, and not to look back.
The surprised and doubtful woman obeyed the old man, and with her belongings and son in hand, she left. The woman already being at the summit turned to see with curiosity and was shocked to hear the thunder and lightning that destroyed the city, a few minutes later the woman was petrified as shown by the statue that lies on the edge of the Pacucha.
Where Pacucha Lagoon is located
The Pacucha Lagoon is located 17 kilometers from the center of Andahuaylas, northeast of the province of the same name, in the department of Apurimac, at 3200 masl. It is, together with the Sondor Archeological Complexone of the main tourist attractions of the district of Pacucha.
How to get there
By private transportation
If you are in the city of Andahuaylas, you can arrive by private transport taking the road to Abancay and then take the detour to Pacucha. The trip takes approximately 30 minutes.
In Public Transportation
You can take the buses that leave from Jiron Alfonso Ugarte, about 2 blocks from the hospital in Andahuaylas. The trip takes about 40 minutes and they leave continuously back and forth from 6 am. to 7 pm.
How to get to Pacucha from other locations
From Lima: 14 hours by road
From Ayacucho: 4.5 hours by road
From Cusco: 7 hours by road
From Abancay: 3 hours by road
Activities to do in the Pacucha Lagoon
Considered by many as one of the most beautiful most beautiful lagoons in PeruThe Pacucha Lagoon with its crystal clear waters and surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, has become a popular tourist destination for those seeking a getaway from the city and connect with nature. In this article, I will introduce you to some of the activities you can do in Pacucha Lagoon.
Boat ride
One of the most popular activities in the Pacucha Lagoon is boating. The lagoon has several boat rental companies that offer different options, from small boats for two people to larger boats for groups of up to 10 people. During the ride, you can enjoy the crystal clear waters of the lagoon and admire the natural scenery that surrounds it. If you are lucky, you may even see some of the aquatic birds that inhabit the lagoon.
Sport fishing
Another popular activity in the Pacucha Lagoon is sport fishing. The lagoon is home to several species of fish, such as trout, silversides and carp, making it an ideal destination for fishing enthusiasts. If you want to enjoy this activity, you can rent fishing equipment at one of the several equipment rental establishments around the lagoon.
Bird watching
The Pacucha Lagoon is home to several species of aquatic birds, such as ducks, herons and gulls, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers. If you are one of them, don't miss the opportunity to walk around the lagoon and observe these birds in their natural habitat. If you are lucky, you may also see some migratory birds that visit the lagoon during the winter season.
Trekking
If you like to hike and enjoy nature, the Pacucha Lagoon has several trails that you can hike to explore the surroundings of the lagoon. One of the most popular trails is the bridle path around the lagoon, which offers panoramic views of the mountains and surrounding landscape. You can also explore the trails that lead to nearby waterfalls and the eucalyptus forests surrounding the lagoon.
Picnic
The Pacucha Lagoon is an ideal place to enjoy an outdoor picnic with friends and family. There are several green areas around the lagoon that offer shade and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for sitting and relaxing while enjoying a delicious lunch or snack. In addition, if you like to grill, you can also rent a grill and cook your food outdoors.
Glamping
For those looking for a more exclusive and close-to-nature experience, the Pacucha Lagoon offers the option of glamping. This activity combines the comfort of luxury lodging with the experience of camping outdoors. The glamping in Pacucha Lagoon are usually located in strategic places to enjoy the breathtaking views of the lagoon and its natural environment.
Glamping accommodations are usually high-quality tents and are equipped with comfortable beds, elegant furnishings and private bathrooms. In addition, many glampings offer additional services, such as gourmet meals and activities like hiking and boating.
Glamping is an ideal activity for those looking for a more luxurious and comfortable experience while enjoying nature and the beauty of the Pacucha Lagoon. It is also an opportunity to disconnect from everyday life and enjoy the tranquility and silence of the natural environment.
Night walks
The Pacucha Lagoon also offers the opportunity for night hikes, an exciting activity for those looking to experience nature in a different environment. During the night hike, you will be able to enjoy the stars and the full moon, as well as observe the night life in and around the lagoon. Night hikes are usually guided by an expert in the area, which will allow you to learn more about the flora and fauna of the region.
Paddle Surf and Kayak
The Pacucha Lagoon is an ideal place for paddle surfing and kayaking due to its calm waters and stunning natural surroundings. These activities are very popular in the lagoon, and there are several companies that offer equipment rental and lessons for beginners. Paddle surfing is an activity that consists of paddling standing up on a surfboard while using a paddle to move through the water. On the other hand, kayaking is an activity that consists of paddling seated on an individual boat and can be done either alone or as a couple.
These activities are not only fun and exciting, but also allow you to explore the natural beauty of the lagoon in a unique way. You can paddle along the lagoon and enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains and the surrounding landscape from the water. In addition, these activities are ideal for keeping fit and active while enjoying the great outdoors.
In short, the Pacucha Lagoon is one of the main tourist attractions in tourist attractions of Andahuaylas.It is undoubtedly an ideal tourist destination for those looking for outdoor activities in a stunning natural environment. From boat rides to night hikes, there are a variety of activities you can enjoy at the lagoon. If you plan to visiting the Apurimac region region of Peru, don't miss the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the Pacucha Lagoon.
Come and visit the most beautiful Peru's most beautiful lagoon and enjoy all the adventure, nature and culture it has to offer.
