Awana Kancha Camelids & Textiles
Discover Andean camelids and traditional textile arts at this charming farm near Cusco. Feed alpacas and learn ancient crafts!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Animals are active and friendly
Awana Kancha Camelids & Textiles
Best Time
Animals are active and friendly
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Andean camelids and traditional textile arts at this charming farm near Cusco. Feed alpacas and learn ancient crafts!
"An amazing experience where you can get up close and feed llamas, vicuñas, and alpacas!"
🎯 Easy Access from Cusco
Take a Pisac-bound bus from Calle Puputi. Ask to be dropped off at Awana Kancha for a cheap ride!
🤝 Friendly & Informative Guides
Guides like Norma offer fascinating insights into camelids and textile traditions.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Meet the Camelids
Farm grounds
Get up close with alpacas, llamas, guanacos, and vicuñas. Learn their differences and feed them fresh leaves!
Traditional Textile Demonstration
Demonstration area
Discover how natural dyes are made from plants and minerals, and how wool is transformed into beautiful textiles.
Artisan Shop
Shop
Browse and purchase exquisite alpaca wool clothing and crafts, showcasing indigenous artistry.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting There: A Scenic Journey
Experience the Camelids & Crafts
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Easy Access from Cusco
Take a Pisac-bound bus from Calle Puputi. Ask to be dropped off at Awana Kancha for a cheap ride!
🤝 Friendly & Informative Guides
Guides like Norma offer fascinating insights into camelids and textile traditions.
🌿 Natural Detergent Demo
See how the 'sacha for kai' root is used as a natural detergent for alpaca fiber.
📸 Photo Opportunities Galore
Perfect spot for selfies with adorable alpacas and llamas.
Yarn adventures in Peru! (Scroll to the very end for my yarn haul ;) )
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Easy Access from Cusco
Take a Pisac-bound bus from Calle Puputi. Ask to be dropped off at Awana Kancha for a cheap ride!
🤝 Friendly & Informative Guides
Guides like Norma offer fascinating insights into camelids and textile traditions.
🌿 Natural Detergent Demo
See how the 'sacha for kai' root is used as a natural detergent for alpaca fiber.
📸 Photo Opportunities Galore
Perfect spot for selfies with adorable alpacas and llamas.
💰 Free Entry, Shop Optional
Entrance is free! Enjoy the animals and demonstrations before browsing the shop.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Awana Kancha for its engaging animal encounters and educational insights into traditional textile making. The opportunity to feed the camelids and learn about natural dyeing processes are frequently highlighted as memorable experiences. While the shop offers beautiful items, some visitors have noted slow service when trying to make purchases.
"Nice place to meet all the camelids and feed them! Staff explains the process how the wool is processed and colored before you enter their pricey store. Open daily.
The staff is nice and friendly, but tends to forget about the visitors once there are more than 2 people in the store. We wanted to buy an item, but got fed up of not getting any attention and left."
Gi Ci
"Its a nice place. Got to learn about the different llamas and alpacas as well as feed them which is cool. Its definitely a place to visit."
Susan Alvarado
"Amazing place, the guides would explain the differences between animals and how they are used by the local people. They also discuss how the natural dyes are made and how the fibres are being prepared. You get a chance to feed the animals fresh leaves and the entrance is free of charge. There is a shop at the end with beautiful clothing and art presented on the clothes etc from the indigenous tribes. Definetely worth visiting!"
M G
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To reach Awana Kancha, head to Calle Puputi in Cusco and find the bus or colectivo stop for Pisac. Request to be dropped off at Awana Kancha, which is about 23 km from Cusco. The fare is typically S/5.00 to S/10.00.
Yes, it's very accessible. Buses and colectivos heading to Pisac from Cusco's Calle Puputi will stop there if you ask.
The journey takes approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and stops.
Taxis are available, but taking the local bus or colectivo is a more budget-friendly option and offers a glimpse into local travel.
You can catch a Pisac-bound bus or colectivo heading back towards Cusco from the main road.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the entrance to Awana Kancha is free of charge. You can enjoy the animals and demonstrations without any admission cost.
Awana Kancha is open daily, typically from morning until late afternoon. It's best to visit during daylight hours to fully enjoy the experience.
No advance booking is necessary as there is no entrance fee. You can visit anytime during their operating hours.
Yes, knowledgeable guides are available to explain the different camelid species, their uses, and the textile-making process.
Absolutely! You can purchase fresh leaves on-site to feed the alpacas, llamas, and vicuñas, which is a highlight for many visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed throughout Awana Kancha. It's a fantastic place to capture close-ups of the camelids and vibrant textiles.
The areas where you can feed the animals offer great opportunities for candid shots. The demonstration areas also provide colorful backdrops.
It's always polite to ask permission before taking close-up photos of individuals or during specific demonstrations.
There are no specific mentions of drone restrictions, but it's advisable to be mindful of other visitors and any posted signage.
A standard DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is ideal. A telephoto lens can be useful for capturing animals from a distance, and a macro lens for textile details.
🎫 🧶 Textiles & Shopping
The shop features a wide range of products made from alpaca wool, including scarves, sweaters, hats, blankets, and decorative items, all showcasing traditional designs.
The farm emphasizes traditional processes and natural materials, suggesting a focus on ethical and sustainable production of their alpaca wool products.
Guides explain that natural dyes are derived from various plants, minerals, and insects found in the Andean region, creating vibrant and eco-friendly colors.
While the shop is described as 'pricey' by some, the quality and craftsmanship of the alpaca wool items are generally considered high.
Yes, the staff explains the entire process, from shearing the animals to preparing and coloring the wool for textile production.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Wear comfortable shoes as there's walking involved. Bring a hat and sunscreen, especially during sunny days. The free entry makes it a budget-friendly outing, and the shop offers unique souvenirs if you choose to purchase.
💰 Budget Travelers
While there is a shop selling alpaca products, there's no pressure to buy. You can enjoy the entire experience without spending a lot of money. Consider bringing your own snacks and water to save on potential on-site purchases.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Camelids
Visitors can observe these animals roaming the grounds and learn about their differences from the knowledgeable guides. The opportunity to feed them fresh leaves is a memorable experience, allowing for close interaction and great photo opportunities.
Key takeaway: Understanding the unique traits of each camelid enhances the appreciation for their role in Andean culture and economy. Don't miss the chance to differentiate between the fluffy alpaca and the more robust llama!
The Art of Andean Textiles
This process is not just about creating beautiful fabrics; it's a form of storytelling, with each pattern and color often holding symbolic meaning. The natural dyes produce vibrant hues that are both environmentally friendly and unique.
Why it matters: Learning about these traditional methods provides insight into the resourcefulness and artistry of the indigenous communities. The shop offers a chance to purchase these handcrafted items, directly supporting these artisans and preserving their craft.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit