The Muñapata Turquoise Waters Canyon in Cusco | A Hidden Gem You Must Visit in 2025

If you’re traveling to Peru, the Muñapata Turquoise Waters Canyon is one of Cusco’s most stunning yet lesser-known natural treasures. Famous for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking landscapes, this destination has become a must-visit for travelers seeking adventure, beauty, and tranquility. Thanks to Kantu Peru Tours, this blog will tell you everything you need to know about the Muñapata Turquoise Waters Canyon—from its history, features, and location to how to get there and what to expect during your visit.

What is the Muñapata Turquoise Waters Canyon?

Let us tell you—the Muñapata Turquoise Waters Canyon is a unique geological formation in Cusco that has amazed countless travelers. It’s famous for its turquoise pools surrounded by towering rock walls that form the canyon. This place is perfect for ecotourism lovers and photographers, thanks to its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere.

Foto de un joven en las Aguas Turquesas de Muñapata

History of the Muñapata Turquoise Waters Canyon

The formation of the Muñapata Turquoise Waters Canyon is the result of centuries of river and mineral erosion, which carved the rocks, creating crystal-clear pools of intense turquoise that contrast with the canyon’s arid landscape.

Though the canyon has existed for thousands of years, its popularity among tourists is recent. Local communities have long known about this place, and in recent years, it has become an unmissable attraction in Cusco—protected and managed by them.

The Muñapata Turquoise Waters Canyon in Cusco

Why Visit the Muñapata Turquoise Waters Canyon?

This hidden gem offers crystal-clear swimming spots, incredible photo backdrops, and peaceful hiking trails – all without the crowds of more famous sites. It’s the ideal spot to connect with nature and experience Peru’s breathtaking landscapes in a more authentic, relaxed way.

Fotografía dentro de las Aguas Turquesas de Muñapata

Altitude of the Muñapata Turquoise Waters Canyon

This canyon sits at 3,800 meters above sea level (masl), a significant altitude where oxygen is scarcer compared to Cusco City (3,399 masl). At this height, unacclimatized visitors may experience altitude sickness (soroche), with symptoms like headaches, nausea, fatigue, and dizziness. That’s why we recommend spending your first days acclimatizing with gradual tours in Cusco and visiting this site only after your third day in the region.

Where is the Muñapata Turquoise Waters Canyon Located?

The Muñapata Turquoise Waters Canyon is a hidden natural gem in the Pitumarca District, Canchis Province, Cusco Region, Peru. It’s about a 3-hour drive (120 km) from Cusco City, following a scenic route through Andean landscapes, traditional communities, and vast mountain ranges—along the same path as the Rainbow Mountain.

Mapa para llegar al Cañon de las Aguas Turquesas Muñapata

How to Get to the Muñapata Turquoise Waters Canyon?

To visit this stunning natural wonder, you have two main options: traveling independently or booking an organized tour. Below, we explain each option step by step so you can choose what best fits your travel style.

Option 1: Independent Travel (For Solo Adventurers)

If you prefer planning your own itinerary, moving freely, and having a more authentic experience, this option is ideal—though it requires more preparation.

Step 1: Travel from Cusco to Pitumarca: Start in Cusco by taking a bus or combi (shared public transport) to Pitumarca, These depart from Huayruropata Avenue, and the trip takes about 3 hours on paved roads with stunning Andean views, the ticket costs around S/15–25 PEN.

Step 2: Local Transport from Pitumarca to the Canyon: In Pitumarca’s main square, hire a shared taxi or 4×4 truck to reach the canyon, the ride takes 1 hour on unpaved rural roads with spectacular mountain views, and the price is around S/50–80 PEN (round trip, negotiable).

Step 3: Final Hike to the Turquoise Pools: The transport drops you near the canyon, followed by a 20 to 30-minute hike to the pools. The trail is accessible but has some slopes and uneven terrain—wear proper shoes and bring water.

Ingreso a las Aguas Turquesas Muñapata

Option 2: Organized Tour (For Convenience)

If you prefer hassle-free travel, booking a tour with a licensed agency like Kantu Peru Tours is the best choice—though you may need a private tour due to limited demand.

1. Booking the Tour in Cusco: Reserve online or with a trusted agency in Cusco packages include transport, guide, and sometimes lunch, the price usually ranges from S/100 to 150 PEN (varies by season).

2. Early Departure from Cusco: Pickup at 4:00–5:00 AM from your hotel in a private van, scenic stops for photos along the way.

3. Guided Canyon Visit: A professional guide leads the hike, explaining the geology and ecology, 1.5–2 hours to explore, take photos, and enjoy the views, return to Cusco by 4:00–6:00 PM.

Caminata a las Aguas Turquesas Muñapata

What to do at the Muñapata Turquoise Waters Canyon?

→ Photograph the turquoise pools – Best between 10 AM–2 PM when sunlight enhances their color.
→ Moderate hike – Explore the canyon (1–2 hours) and its rock formations.
→ Birdwatching – Spot condors in the mornings or evenings as they soar over the cliffs.

Viewpoint of The Muñapata Turquoise Waters Canyon in Cusco

Entrance Fee for Muñapata Turquoise Waters

If you plan to visit this incredible destination, the entrance fee covers the maintenance of the site and directly contributes to the development of the local Muñapata community, which is responsible for preserving this beautiful natural area. Here is the updated information on admission prices:

→ Adults: S/15.00 PEN
→ Students (with ID): S/10.00 PEN
→ Children (5–12): S/5.00 PEN
→ Under 5: Free

A photo of the Muñapata Turquoise Waters Canyon in Cusco

Visiting hours for Muñapata Turquoise waters

The Muñapata Turquoise Waters Canyon has set visiting hours to ensure visitor safety and preserve the natural environment. Access is permitted from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and all tourists must leave the area by 5:00 p.m.

Guía local para recorrer destinos turísticos

Must-See Nearby Attractions

Urcos Lagoon

Located just 45 minutes from Cusco in the Urcos district, this sacred lagoon offers a peaceful setting, ideal for boat rides during the dry season (April–October). Visitors can spot waterfowl like wild ducks and gallinules, while the nearby Sanctuary of Urcos—an ancient Inca ceremonial site—adds a fascinating historical element linked to water worship and legends about Atahualpa’s gold.

Chapel of the Purified Virgin of Checacupe

A gem of 17th-century Andean Baroque, this chapel surprises visitors with its mural paintings of indigenous-featured “arcabucero angels” (musket-wielding angels) and its gold-leaf altarpiece. The fusion of Catholic elements with Andean symbolism (such as suns and moons) makes it a unique testament to cultural syncretism during colonial times, standing out as a must-see stop on the Andean Baroque Route.

Temple of San Pedro Apóstol de Tinta

Built in 1600, this historic temple houses works by the renowned indigenous painter Diego Quispe Tito and the remains of Túpac Amaru II. Its red-stone facade with floral carvings and interior adorned with mestizo art make it a key monument for understanding evangelization and colonial rebellions in the Andes.

Combapata Church

Notable for its stunning stone portal carved with motifs of mermaids and Andean fruits, this church showcases the splendor of mestizo colonial art. Its main altar, combining gold leaf with natural pigments, reflects the mastery of indigenous artisans who reinterpreted European Baroque with Andean sensibility.

Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)

Two hours from Pitumarca, this iconic destination captivates with its intense mineral stripes (reds, greens, and purples) formed over millions of years of erosion. The viewpoint at 5,200 masl offers breathtaking panoramic views—it’s best visited early to avoid crowds and fully appreciate the Andean landscape.

Red Valley (Palccoyo)

A lesser-known alternative to Vinicunca, Palccoyo amazes with its reddish rock formations and a surreal stone forest. With three accessible viewpoints and fewer tourists, it’s ideal for those seeking to connect with nature amid vibrant colors but with more tranquility than its famous neighbor.

Montaña de Colores-Una mujer con dos llamas

Visiting Recommendations to Muñapata

✔ Acclimatize – Rest a day in Cusco before going.
✔ Warm clothing – High-altitude weather is cold, especially mornings.
✔ Sturdy shoes – The terrain is rocky and uneven.
✔ Sunscreen – UV radiation is intense at this elevation.
✔ Water & snacks – No food vendors on-site.

The trail to Muñapata Turquoise Waters Canyon in Cusco

TOP FAQs About Muñapata

1. Is there cell phone reception in the area?

Coverage is limited and intermittent, however, the Movistar line has a better signal than Claro, thus, we recommend informing your contacts that you’ll be temporarily out of reach.

2. Can you swim in the pools?

No, swimming is not allowed, actually, the water contains minerals that must be preserved, and it’s extremely cold (around 8°C / 46°F).

3. Are there restrooms or restaurants?

Only basic toilets are available at the entrance; moreover, here are no restaurants or food stalls, so bring your snacks and enough water (recommended: 2 liters per person).

4. Can I visit during the rainy season (November–April)?

Yes, but with caution, normally the pools have a more intense color during the rainy season, but trails can be muddy, and fog is more common.

5. Is there parking at Muñapata Turquoise Waters?

Yes, there’s a parking lot at the entrance (S/5 per car), and 4×4 vehicles can reach it, but low-clearance cars must park elsewhere.

Foto del Cañon de Aguas Turquesas en Urcos

The Muñapata Turquoise Waters Canyon is one of Cusco’s most stunning hidden treasures, where nature showcases its beauty in turquoise hues and unique rock formations. For an unforgettable experience, consider combining your visit with other nearby attractions like the Rainbow Mountain.

If this article inspired you to visit the Muñapata Turquoise Waters Canyon, give us a 👍 like and share it with fellow adventurers! Still have questions about planning your trip to Peru? Kantu Perú Tours is happy to help! 💙