Perou Decouverte
Perou Decouverte
Antioquía is a district in the province of Huarochirí, in the Lima highlands, located approximately 70 km east of the capital. Its capital, the picturesque village of Espíritu Santo, is recognized as the "largest altarpiece in the world" thanks to its facades covered with colorful frescoes depicting angels, flowers, birds, and Andean motifs. This community art project, launched in 2003, has transformed the local economy and made Antioquía an ideal destination for those seeking culture, nature, and tranquility just a few hours from Lima.
Antioquía is located in the province of Huarochirí, 70 km from Lima via the road through Cieneguilla along the Lurín River. The driving time is approximately 2h30 to 3h, depending on traffic and road conditions. By public transport, the duration is similar.
The village of Espíritu Santo, capital of the district, is at an altitude of 1,526 meters. It enjoys a temperate and dry climate for most of the year, with temperatures ranging between 18°C and 26°C. The rainy season is concentrated between December and March; the rest of the year is ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.
Antioquía is an inspiring example of how art and culture can transform a community. Its streets are an open-air gallery, where every fresco tells a story. Additionally, it offers the opportunity to walk along sections of the Qhapaq Ñan (Inca Trail), visit archaeological sites like Nieve Nieve, taste apple and quince products, and enjoy the tranquility of the Lurín River valley. It is a perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a family day trip.
From Lima, take the Av. Javier Prado towards La Molina, continue on Av. La Molina then take the Cieneguilla road. Follow the road along the Lurín River, passing through the district of Cieneguilla and then the villages of Nieve Nieve and Santa Rosa de Chontay. The road is paved, although some sections require caution due to their condition. Upon arriving at the village of Espíritu Santo, you will find the main square and the first houses painted with frescoes.
Duration: 2h30 – 3h.
Parking: Areas are available near the main square.
The journey by public transport takes between 2h30 and 3h, depending on traffic and stops.
There are organized tours that combine a visit to Antioquía with Cieneguilla, Nieve Nieve, and other attractions in the Lurín Valley. They include transportation, a guide, and sometimes a country lunch. This is a comfortable option for those without their own vehicle.
The main attraction of Antioquía is its painted facades, the result of the "Colores para Antioquía" project, launched in 2003 by the Center for Research, Education and Development (CIED) to stimulate tourism and the local economy. After an international competition, Peruvian artist Enrique Bustamante was commissioned to transfer his naive style onto the village walls. The paintings depict flowers, birds, angels, Andean landscapes, and scenes of daily life. Today, Antioquía is known as the "most colorful village in Lima" and its entry in the Guinness Book of Records as the "largest altarpiece in the world" attests to its uniqueness.
It is recommended to walk through the streets, starting at the Main Square, where the church, the communal building, and the school are located, all adorned with original frescoes. From there, you can climb to the Amancaes and Huascasana viewpoints, which offer panoramic views of the valley and surrounding mountains.
Located near the main square, this small museum exhibits ceramics, utensils, tools, and two mummies belonging to the local culture. Entry costs S/ 3 per adult; children enter for free. It is a brief but interesting stop to discover the pre-Hispanic past of the region.
Just 2.5 km from Espíritu Santo is the annex of Cochahuayco, an even smaller and quieter village, with a 17th-century church. From there, you can start a hike on a section of the Qhapaq Ñan, the ancient Inca road that connected the coast to the Andes. The trail runs along the hills, passes through small tambos (Inca depots), and offers desert views with cacti and rock formations. The hike lasts between 3 and 4 hours (round trip) and is of moderate difficulty. It is recommended to start before 11:00 AM to avoid the intense heat.
During low water months (April to November), the Lurín River forms natural pools where you can cool off after the hike. It is an ideal place to bring fruit and spend a relaxing moment in nature. It is advisable to ask locals about the safest areas for swimming.
On the road to Antioquía, about 25 minutes from Cieneguilla, is the populated center of Nieve Nieve, which also has painted facades and an important archaeological site. The complex, recently enhanced, has local guides and allows you to discover pre-Hispanic structures from a viewpoint. It is a recommended stop if you are traveling by your own means.
The cuisine of Antioquía makes use of local fruits, especially apples and quinces, as well as shrimp from the Lurín River. The most representative dishes and products are:
Restaurants are concentrated around the Main Square and along the Cochahuayco road. Menu prices vary between S/ 15 and S/ 30 per person.
Antioquia offers a modest but sufficient range of accommodation for travelers passing through. Most options are concentrated in the town center or near the main road, providing easy access to shops and restaurants.
These small-scale establishments prioritize a warm, personalized welcome. Rooms are generally simple but clean, with private bathroom, hot water, and sometimes a small TV. Some have an on-site restaurant serving typical regional dishes. Prices generally range between S/ 50 and S/ 100 per night for two people.
Ideal for budget travelers, guesthouses offer basic rooms at very affordable rates, often between S/ 25 and S/ 50 per night. Facilities are minimal (clean bed, sometimes shared bathroom) but sufficient for a one-night stopover.
In the center or in residential areas, some locals rent one or two rooms to passing visitors. This is an excellent way to discover local life and get personalized advice about the region. Expect between S/ 30 and S/ 60 per night, sometimes breakfast included.
No, the frescoes are on the facades of houses and are freely accessible. It is recommended to walk through the streets while respecting private property.
General entry is S/ 3 per adult; children enter for free.
There are no established camping areas in the village, but some visitors camp in areas near the river, always with the permission of the owners. It is recommended to check with the town hall beforehand.
There are some rural houses and simple accommodations in Espíritu Santo and Cochahuayco, but the offer is limited. For more convenience, many visitors return to Lima the same day or stay in Cieneguilla.
Yes, the climate is temperate for most of the year. During the rainy season (December to March), it is recommended to check the road conditions before leaving.