The Virgen de Carmen “Paucartambo” and Sunrise over Tres Cruces 2025

Itinerary

By Car Cusco - Virgen del Carmen

Virgin of Carmen in Paucartambo

We start our journey from Cusco and have enough time to enjoy all the planned activities. We head to Paucartambo through a stunning Andean landscape. We enjoy a beautiful afternoon and evening in Paucartambo, a charming town known for its traditional Andean culture and vibrant festivals, arriving just when the festival is at its peak (it will be an unforgettable day).

We will continue our journey to Tres Cruces, known as one of the most beautiful sunrises in the world . Located on the edge of the Manu National Park. We will arrive at Tres Cruces at the end of the night. We will contemplate the beautiful surroundings while preparing for the early start of the next day. Ready to witness the extraordinary sunrise the next morning.

• 12:30 - 13:00 Pick up from your hotel and departure from Cusco
• 15:30 - 16:00 Visit Ninanmarca
• 17:30 - 18:00 Arrival in Paucartambo
• (July 15) Festival of the Virgin of Carmen, fireworks, burning of castles, traditional dances

By Car Tres Cruces - Virgen del Carmen

The most beautiful sunrise in the world

So during this phenomenon, you can witness two sunrises, also known as double sunrise. The first is a false sunrise, in which you can see the glow of the sun rising over the horizon full of lush vegetation for about 20 minutes. The second sunrise reveals the sun in all its splendor, illuminating the dense jungle of Manu for approximately 10 minutes. The light illuminates with a mix of yellow and orange hues that are a visual delight for visitors. Also there, every winter solstice (at the end of June) a natural phenomenon known as 'the white ray' occurs , which only occurs in Japan and Cusco . During this natural phenomenon you can see an optical illusion with three suns on the horizon caused by the effervescent light and the proximity of the sun to the planet.

In addition to the mesmerizing sunrise, you will also be able to enjoy stunning views of the Ausangate mountain range, a snow-capped peak that adorns the Paucartambo River. The landscape is further enhanced by the majestic Apuqañaqway, known by locals as the “protector of Antisuyo.”

Festival of the Virgin of Carmen

Back to Paucartambo around 7am after sunrise.

In Paucartambo we will visit the Temple of the Virgin of Carmen and the famous bridge built in the style of King Charles III. Here we will witness more than 15 traditional dances, all of them part of the festival of the Virgin of Carmen. At 3:00 pm we will join the procession of the Virgin of Carmen, marveling at the skills of the dancers.

At 5:30 pm, collect your belongings and board the bus for the return trip to Cusco. You will arrive in Cusco around 9:00 pm, concluding this memorable tour.

• 01:00  Meeting and Departure to the Tres Cruces viewpoint
• 03:00 - 05:00  Arrival at Tres Cruces and sunrise at the Tres Cruces viewpoint in Paucartambo
• 07:30 - 08:00  Arrival in Paucartambo and free morning
• (July 16) Enjoy typical and/or traditional dances in honor of the Virgin of Carmen
• 13:30 - 14:00 Farewell and Return to Cusco
• 17:30 - 18:00 Arrival in Cusco

What's Included?

• Pick up from your hotel.
• Transport round trip Cusco / Paucartambo / Tres Cruces / Cuco.
• All entrances fees to the places to be visited according to the programme.
• Official tourism guide English / Spanish.
• Guided visits.
• Hot drink and sandwich at Tres Cruces.
• Full first aid and safety equipment.

What's not Included?

• Meals. In the village of Paucartambo there are many restaurant options.
• Personal expenses.
• Sleeping bags.
• Other unspecified.

Note: Accommodation, transport, meals and additional excursions can be arranged.

Additional Services

What to Bring?

• Warm clothes for the night (gloves, chullo, jackets, etc).
• Comfortable shoes (preferably for trekking).
• A camera.
• A cap or hat during the day.
• Sun block.
• Mosquito repellent.
• Rehydrating water, snacks or fruit.
• Identity documents.
• Cash.

PRICES

Important information

Recommended departures:

• On the 15th and 16th of each year (Festival of the Virgin of Carmen).
• Sunrise in Tres Cruces and Paucartambo (All June).

The Virgen de Carmen “Paucartambo” and Sunrise over Tres Cruces 2025 Map