Quillabamba is sometimes called Bajo Urubamba. That’s not because it’s a lower part of the town of Urubamba, rather it’s at the lower end of the Urubamba River. It is much lower in altitude and much closer to the Amazon than Cusco, which is a relief for those who struggle with altitude but trouble for those who struggle with humidity and heat.

If you want to tour a coffee or cacao farm, this is the place to go. All of the good local chocolate and coffee that’s sold in Cusco comes from Quillabamba or Santa Teresa. There are many private farms and cooperatives that welcome travelers for tours or as lodging.

If you’re interested in coffee, check out the Coffee Project by the Andean Alliance for Sustainable Development or Café Orígenes.

Practicalities