Discover the hidden Stone Forest of Pampachiri
Located in Apurimac region of southern Peru, It is a lesser-known but striking geological site, surrounded by mountain and difficult access make this destination unique adventure which involves a long journey from nearby cities two hours from Andahuaylas or Abancay city. Travelers who want to get there need to hire a local guide as the terrain can be challenging, and the site isn’t marked for easy access, however if you go by your own car you can manage and visit the entire place.
Stone Forest of Pampachiri Overview
The Pampachiri Stone Forest is made up of sharp, jagged rocks that rise up dramatically from the ground. These formations have been shaped by centuries of erosion, weathering, and seismic activity. The rocks in the forest are primarily composed of sedimentary stones, and over time, they have been eroded by wind and water, forming an intricate landscape of sharp pinnacles, towers, and labyrinth-like paths.
What Should you Visit there?
| Areas | Distance |
|---|---|
| The smurfs house | 30 minutes drive |
| Stone Forest | 20 minutes from the smurfs house |
| Pancula Mountain | 30 minutes from Stone Forest |
| The Red Sector: | 20 minutes from Pancula |
Lets to describe each sectors about Pampachiri
The Smurfs’ House of Pampachiri
The Smurfs’ House is a large, rounded rock formation that looks remarkably like a mushroom with a curved top, much like the homes the Smurfs live in within the popular animated series. The formation is characterized by its smooth, dome-like shape, which stands out in contrast to the more angular, jagged rock pillars and formations found elsewhere in the stone forest.
Stone Forest (Main Sector)
The primary attraction is the Stone Forest itself—an otherworldly landscape of rock formations shaped by wind, water, and erosion over millions of years. The “forest” consists of large, towering rock columns, spires, and surreal formations that resemble trees, creating a mystical, almost alien landscape. As you explore the area, you will encounter unique shapes such as natural arches, strange pillars, and rock formations that have been eroded by natural forces into weird and wonderful shapes. Some formations are said to resemble animals, human faces, or other figures.
Pancula Mountain
The Pancula (also spelled Pancula or Pankula) is another fascinating feature within the Pampachiri Stone Forest (Bosque de Piedra de Pampachiri) in Apurímac, Peru. It is a natural rock formation that stands out due to its unique shape and geological significance. Pancula is a large, isolated rock formation within the Pampachiri Stone Forest. The name Pancula is derived from Quechua, the indigenous language spoken by many people in the region. While there isn’t a universally agreed-upon definition, Pancula generally refers to a specific rock formation with a unique shape or significance.
The Red Sector
A part of the forest with reddish-colored rocks, which stand in stark contrast to the typical grayish stones found in other parts of the forest. The red hue comes from the presence of minerals, and this sector offers an exceptional visual experience, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Flora and Fauna
The flora in Pampachiri is typical of a semi-arid Andean environment, with cactus, shrubs, and some grasses growing in the region’s valleys. Despite its dry climate, the presence of a few rivers and valleys supports patches of greenery and agriculture. Locals cultivate potatoes, corn, and quinoa in these fertile areas. Wildlife in the Pampachiri Stone Forest is sparse, but visitors might encounter birds of prey, including eagles and vultures, as well as some small mammals such as rodents or foxes. The most abundant wildlife is likely to be insects, such as butterflies and beetles, adapted to the dry environment.
Hiking and Adventure
The Pampachiri Stone Forest offers great opportunities for hiking and exploration. The area is relatively remote, and visitors can enjoy an off-the-beaten-path adventure in a landscape that feels almost otherworldly. The hikes typically take visitors through the various sectors, allowing them to explore the diverse rock formations up close. While the terrain is rocky and uneven, the hiking trails are generally moderate, with some spots requiring light scrambling. A local guide is recommended to help navigate the trails and provide insights into the region’s geological and cultural significance. Horse riding is another activity that you can do there. There are several families offering this service; you can hire one once you are there directly.
Personal Travel Experience
My name is Vidal and I am writing this to share with you my personal experience exploring this wonderful and remote less known area in the Andes mountain.
Road Trip from Cusco
We decided to make a road trip from Cusco city which is located about 6 hours from the Stone Forest of Pampachiri, after getting the car ready we depart Cusco in the afternoon 2:30pm and drove for about 4 hours towards Abancay city, the road is quite winding and up and down, we stop a few times on the way to rest and relax the legs , of course we got some photos which are in our instagram account.
Karkaterra Tunnels
After spending the night at the Abancay site, the next day we decided to visit the Karkaterra tunnels located an hour from the city. The road is very narrow and paved but not busy. On the way to get there, we stop several times to feed some local dogs. Once we arrived at the tunnels, it was kind of crazy due to it being so narrow that only one small car can fit there.
We stop to contemplate the place, which takes the breath out of us; to one side was the slope of 400 to 500 meters deep, and a mistake there basically means you can say “goodbye.”. We keep driving and praying to not find another car in the opposite direction. There are in total 3 tunnels, with 300 meters as the longest one, which has a section to see the beautiful canyon. The locals explained to us that these tunnels were built to connect the route that is going from Abancay to the Tacmara community.
Yellow River
After having explored the tunnels, we continued following the road without knowing about the Yellow River; we just wanted to find a wide area to turn around. Once we saw the yellow waterfall in the distance, we decided to get there and see it closer. It was a tall yellow waterfall that was running from Ampay Mountain towards the canyon. We stopped there and climbed to see what we could find up there.
It was a long waterfall that runs a lot of water and creates a spectacular view, especially the yellow coloration in the water of the flows, which is indicative of a greater load of iron, sulfate, and toxic metals. After exploring, we continue our road trip to Pampachiri, driving a couple of hours.
Casa de Los Pitufos Pampachiri
After having spent the night at a local lodge, we decided to go to explore the stone forest early in the morning. We drove 30 minutes to reach the first stop, which was in the “Smurfs House,” where a local family is living. It is kind of a natural formation of structures—made from the natural landscape—that are small, round, and whimsical, looking like tiny “Smurf homes” nestled into the environment. The houses are built from rock formations and local materials, and they have been painted bright blue, echoing the color of the little blue characters from the popular animated franchise.
We talked with the family, and their grandparents were living in the caves, which nowadays they use as storage. It is allowed to go in and walk around, which offers wonderful views. Then we keep driving to reach the main area called Bosque de Piedras, or Stone Forest.
Bosque de Piedras de Pampachiri
We finally made it; after driving 20 minutes from the “Smurts House,” we have reached the proper Stone Forest, a series of towering rock formations that resemble trees, columns, or sometimes even mushroom-like structures. These rock pillars have been naturally shaped over millions of years through a combination of erosion and other geological processes. The result is a dramatic landscape that feels like an ancient, petrified forest.
The area’s unique geography and climate have contributed to the preservation and formation of these striking rocks. In some places, the rocks appear to “grow” out of the ground in surreal shapes, contributing to the forest-like appearance. Also be able to do horseback riding around the area.
Pancula Mountain
Pancula Mountain is another notable landmark in the stone forest. The mountain is part of the stunning Andean landscape that defines this region, offering unique features for visitors interested in exploring natural wonders and local culture.
Pancula Mountain offers some of the most spectacular views of the Apurímac region, including sweeping vistas of valleys, cliffs, and rock formations. It’s a perfect destination for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers. Then we just drove a couple of minutes to reach the last area, Red Sector.
Red Sector
The term “Red Sector” likely refers to a portion of the rock formations or terrain that features distinctive red-hued rocks and soils, giving it a dramatic and eye-catching appearance. Just a few minutes from the Stone Forest area, don’t forget to bring something to cover your face due to the windy area around.
After having explored this final area, we took the road towards Pampachiri and drove to the thermal baths, where we relaxed and decided to spend the night.
Trip Conclusion
Definitely, this trip was one of the most beautiful adventures, exploring some of the lesser-known areas in the Andes mountains of Peru. I am sure I will be back, taking more people to these destinations.
Some tips for your trip.
How to get there?
The Karkaterra tunnels and Yellow waterfalls are located an hour from Abancay city, and there are not many travel agencies offering this tour, but you can get there by driving on your own or riding with your own vehicle. If you don’t have these, you can hire a taxi, which can take you there.
Pampachiri Stone Forest: This place is located farther away than others, so you need to arrange a tour from Abancay or Andahuaylas. If you have your own vehicle, you can get there from these two places, also from Ayacucho. You don’t need to book in advance the tour and the hostel if you decide to stay there; there are a few local hostels where you can stay and deal with them some day.
Entrance fees
For the first places, Karkaterra tunnels and Yellow River, there are not any fees; you can get there and enjoy as much as you want; just bring some water bottles and snacks because there are not any shops around. At the stone forest of Pampachiri, you need to pay a small fee at the “Smurfs House,” 5-10 Peruvian soles; for the other areas, it is totally free.
When to visit the karkaterra tunnels and Pampachiri stone forest?
The best time to visit these places is during the dry season from May to October, when the views are better, with no rain; even the road is safe, but during the rainy season from November to April, there can be some landslides or rocks can fall.
After having visited these places, we continue our trip to other Peru destinations that you can read about in the following link.
Are there hotel or hostel in the area?
Yes, Abancay city has a variety of accommodations, from hotels to hostels, for different prices. The Pampachiri district has some basic hostels and lodges where you can arrange with them the same day that you get there. The prices are not high; basic hostels are from S/30 soles per person.
Is possible to camp there?
In the first two places, Karkaterra and Yellow River, there are not wide areas where you can set up your tent, but if you stay longer, you can find some campgrounds. Pampachiri has some beautiful spots where you can set up your tents, and these are totally free, but keep in mind this place is quite high, and you need to pack warm clothes.
After have read all my experience hopefully you can get to visit this amazing places, feel free to write your comment or ask any questions below, I will be very happy sharing with you all the details what you need to get there.
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