Coporaque, Peru

Introduction to Coporaque

If you want to experience what it is like to live in a proud community village, rich in flora and fauna and off the beaten path, then the Coporaque village could be for you. It is situated in Colca Valley, Arequipa region; Coporaque is located 157 km from Arequipa with an elevation of 3575 meters above sea level. 

The local people are friendly and hospitable; most of the households in the community are related to each other. The community organization is quite tight and the head of the village has a good reputation within the community. The friendly community here has good communication skills, an advantage for the development of tourism. Coporaque has 1220 inhabitants, a year-round cool climate and a beautifully unspoiled natural landscape can be enjoyed here. 

This village is one of a humble and simple nature, where the local community is full of pride at having been recognized as a local tourist area. Villagers live in houses made with adobe, a sun-dried brick material made from earth and organic materials this construction method will help to keep warm because of their durability.

You can learn more about the building process when you stay in one of the village homestays.  No matter how big or small, Coporaque people's homes usually have three distinct sections.  Coporaque houses have a living room, kitchen, bedrooms, as well as sanitary facilities. They offer a separate room for guests, are respectful of mealtimes, and are very friendly. The main sources of income for the inhabitants, besides tourism, are agricultural and livestock activities.

Cultural Information

Here in Coporaque you will find traditions and cultural activities of the area, you will be able to see the local agriculture and see how to milk the cows. Customs such as the cleaning of the irrigation canals, festivity of the planting of native agricultural products, dances and playing native music, crafts and activities in the field can also be observed and experienced on your visit.

As for clothing, anyone who is interested in textiles will be amazed at some of the beautiful traditional attire. Women's costumes are very colorful and diverse. They typically include long skirts with embroidery and iconography of the Colca flora and fauna. The blouses have long sleeves, they wear a vest or bodice and a hat native to the area. The men wear dress pants, shirts, and hats. When it is winter season, they put on a poncho.

Top Tips for your stay in Coporaque

Coporaque offers different packages such as “Explore Coporaque Complete”, a 3 Day/2 Night experience. It includes touring the surrounding area with walks and observation of flora and fauna on the first day. On the second day, guests will go with a local tour guide to the San Antonio archaeological complex, visit the small museum and the craft workshops, then experience various activities with the host family. For the last day our guests will visit the Cruz del Condor viewpoint.