10 Things to Do in El Alto de la Cruz, Piura, Peru
Nestled in the foothills of the Andes Mountains, El Alto de la Cruz is a small town in the Piura region of Peru. Located just a few hours drive north of the city of Piura, El Alto de la Cruz is a popular destination for tourists looking to explore the stunning natural beauty of the region. With its picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, as well as its wealth of cultural and historical attractions, El Alto de la Cruz is an ideal spot for a holiday. Here are 10 of the best things to do in El Alto de la Cruz.
1. Visit the San Francisco de Asis Church: This beautiful church is the oldest in the region, and a must-see for anyone visiting El Alto de la Cruz. Built in the late 17th century, the San Francisco de Asis Church is a stunning example of colonial architecture, with its bright yellow walls and red-tiled roof. Inside, visitors can admire the intricate stonework and the colorful stained-glass windows.
2. Explore the Plaza de Armas: Located in the center of town, the Plaza de Armas is a lively spot where locals gather to enjoy the sunshine and chat with friends. The plaza is also home to a number of important monuments and statues, including a bust of the revolutionary hero José de San Martín.
3. Take a Boat Ride on the Chira River: The Chira River is the lifeblood of El Alto de la Cruz, and a boat ride along its banks is a great way to experience the region’s natural beauty. Visitors can hire a boat from one of the many local tour operators and explore the river’s many tributaries, spotting wildlife along the way.
4. Visit the Museo de la Cruz: This small museum is dedicated to the history and culture of El Alto de la Cruz. The museum houses a collection of artifacts from the region’s pre-Columbian and colonial periods, as well as a variety of photographs and documents.
5. Hike to the El Alto de la Cruz Viewpoint: This spectacular viewpoint is located at the highest point in the town, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The hike to the viewpoint is relatively easy and takes around 45 minutes.
6. Go Birdwatching in El Alto de la Cruz: The region is home to a wide variety of bird species, including the Andean condor, the Andean flamingo, and the Andean ibis. Birdwatchers can also spot a number of rare species, such as the Andean cock-of-the-rock and the Andean guan.
7. Visit the El Alto de la Cruz Market: This vibrant market is the perfect place to pick up souvenirs and local handicrafts. The market is also a great spot to sample some of the region’s delicious cuisine, with vendors selling everything from grilled meats to freshly-made empanadas.
8. Take a Tour of the Local Farms: El Alto de la Cruz is known for its agricultural heritage, and visitors can take a tour of the local farms to learn about traditional farming methods. The tours usually include a visit to the farm’s dairy, where visitors can sample some of the delicious local cheeses.
9. Go Horseback Riding: Horseback riding is a popular activity in El Alto de la Cruz, and visitors can hire a horse from one of the many local tour operators. Rides usually last for around two hours and take riders through the stunning countryside.
10. Take a Tour of the Local Wineries: The region is home to several wineries, and visitors can take a tour of the vineyards and sample some of the delicious local wines. Tours usually include a visit to the winery’s cellars, where visitors can learn about the winemaking process.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing holiday or an adventure-filled getaway, El Alto de la Cruz has something for everyone. From its stunning natural beauty to its rich cultural heritage, this small town is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.