Pasco: History, Nature, and Culture in the Heights of the Andes
Pasco boasts a strikingly diverse geography, with cold highlands and towering mountains in the Andes, contrasted by lush cloud forests in the east. Cerro de Pasco, the region’s capital, is located on the Bombón Plateau, an expansive plain stretching into Junín.
- Minimum altitude: 256 m.a.s.l. (Puerto Bermúdez)
- Maximum altitude: 4,380 m.a.s.l. (Cajamarquilla)
🏛️ History and Culture
One of the highest cities in the world, Cerro de Pasco has a strong identity shaped by its mining heritage. Since colonial times, the region’s vast silver and mineral deposits have attracted explorers and fortune seekers.
This legacy is reflected in its colonial architecture, with churches such as:
San Pedro de Ninacaca
(16th–17th century) – A fusion of Andean and Spanish traditions.
Inmaculada Concepción de Vicco
A stone church built by the local inhabitants.
Traditional festivals are a key part of Pasco’s identity
In May, the Festival of the Crosses brings neighborhoods together in a grand religious celebration. The Chonguinada, a lively folk dance, adds rhythm and joy to festivities.
🌿 Nature and Adventure
Pasco is home to stunning natural landscapes and unique geological formations:
Huayllay National Sanctuary – Stone Forest
A spectacular collection of rock formations shaped by erosion into animal and human-like figures. The area also features hot springs with healing properties.
Punrun Lagoon (4,200 m.a.s.l.)
A breathtaking lake surrounded by Andean flora, inhabited by wild ducks, seagulls, and kingfishers.
Calera Hot Springs
Rich in minerals like calcium and magnesium, these 60°C waters are known for relieving muscle ailments.
Huaguruncho Glacier (5,740 m.a.s.l.)
A majestic mountain with glaciers and crystal-clear lagoons, perfect for trekking and landscape photography.
🏡 Oxapampa and Pozuzo: A European Touch in the Jungle
On Pasco’s eastern side lie Oxapampa and Pozuzo, two towns with strong German and Austrian influences. Founded in the 19th century by European settlers, these towns have preserved their traditional architecture, cuisine, and folk music.
Oxapampa
A charming town with wooden churches, lush landscapes, and a unique cultural fusion.
Pozuzo
Known as the only Austro-German town in South America, Pozuzo maintains its heritage through wooden houses, traditional festivals, and artisanal sausages and beer.
🌞 Best Time to Visit
Pasco’s varied geography means that its climate changes with altitude. In the highlands, May to September is ideal due to fewer rains, while the cloud forest remains warm and humid year-round.
Explore Pasco, where mining history, breathtaking nature, and rich culture meet at the top of the world!
