Peru

Aplao

Aplao

Aplao is a charming town located in the province of Castilla, in the Arequipa region of Peru. Situated at an altitude of 1,200 meters above…

Best for you if…

  • A week-long stay
  • Exploring with transit or a car
  • Historical Sites travelers
  • Nature and Wildlife travelers
  • Visiting in June to August
Recommended stay
7-10 days days
Best time
June to August
Walkability
Spread
Guide depth
Solid guide
More about this guide

Aplao is a strong pick for historical sites & nature and wildlife — plan about 7-10 days days; group places into half-day loops. Peak season: June to August.

Solid guide guide · about 3 min to read · depth score 67/100 (coverage of intro, tips, and mapped places)

Spread density — Wide area — group nearby places into half-day loops. (≈58.9 km span)

2 Places to explore
7-10 days Recommended days
June to August Best season
8 Nearby places

Find nearby destinations

When to go

High season: June to August

JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC

Best months for lower-cost travel: March · April · September · October · November

Weather

Autumn

March to May

Spring

September to November

Summer

December to February

Winter

June to August

How to get there

How to reach Aplao in Peru

Aplao is a beautiful town located in the province of Castilla, in the Arequipa region of Peru. Here's how you can reach Aplao:

  1. By Air: The nearest major airport to Aplao is the Rodríguez Ballón International Airport (AQP) in Arequipa. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to Aplao, which is approximately 230 kilometers away.
  2. By Bus: Aplao is well-connected by bus services from various cities in Peru. You can take a bus from Arequipa, which is the closest major city, and it usually takes around 4-5 hours to reach Aplao. There are also buses available from other cities like Lima, Cusco, and Puno.
  3. By Car: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car in Arequipa or other major cities and take the Pan-American Highway (Route 1S) south towards Aplao. The drive takes approximately 3-4 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Once you reach Aplao, you can explore its charming streets, visit the local market, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding countryside. Don't forget to try the delicious local cuisine and experience the warm hospitality of the people in Aplao!

Getting to know Aplao

Aplao is a charming town located in the province of Castilla, in the Arequipa region of Peru. Situated at an altitude of 1,200 meters above sea level, this picturesque town offers stunning views of the surrounding Andes Mountains.

Known for its mild climate and fertile soil, Aplao is a haven for agriculture. The main crops grown in the area include avocado, grapes, and olives, which contribute to the region's reputation for producing excellent pisco, a traditional Peruvian brandy.

Aplao is also home to a number of historic sites and architectural landmarks. The main square, Plaza de Armas, features a beautiful church that was built in the 19th century and showcases stunning colonial-era architecture. Visitors can also explore the San Francisco de Asis Church and Convent, which dates back to the 18th century.

Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the natural beauty of Aplao and its surroundings. The region offers opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, allowing visitors to experience the breathtaking landscapes up close.

In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, Aplao hosts several traditional festivals throughout the year, providing a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the local culture. The Feast of San Juan, celebrated in June, is a particularly vibrant event, featuring traditional music, dances, and fireworks.

With its scenic landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, Aplao is a must-visit destination for those looking to explore the beauty of Peru.

Pre-trip checklist

Compiled from local tips, stay length, and season notes.

Local tips

  • Visit Machu Picchu early in the morning to avoid crowds
  • Try local Peruvian cuisine like ceviche and lomo saltado
  • Pack layers of clothing for varying weather conditions
  • Stay hydrated and acclimatize to the altitude in Cusco
  • Explore the Amazon rainforest for unique wildlife encounters

Places worth exploring

2 places mapped for this destination

0–1
1–3
3–8
8–20
20+

Suggested 7-day outline

Places ordered by proximity into day buckets. Add what you like to your trip.

Frequently asked questions

Answers compiled from stay length, season, and local tips for this guide.

How many days do you need in Aplao?

Most travelers spend about 7-10 days days in Aplao, Peru.

When is the best time to visit Aplao?

High season is typically June to August.

Which months are more budget-friendly in Aplao?

Travelers often find better value in March, April, September, October, November.

What kind of trip is Aplao good for?

Aplao suits Historical Sites, Nature and Wildlife, Adventure Sports, Cultural Experiences.

Is Aplao walkable?

Wide area — group nearby places into half-day loops.

Any local tips for Aplao?

Visit Machu Picchu early in the morning to avoid crowds

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Multi-city ideas

Nearby combinations sharing travel styles. See all routes

  • Aplao → Iray → Andaray · ≈41 km
  • Aplao → Chuquibamba → Andaray · ≈46 km
  • Aplao → Huancarqui → Huambo · ≈57 km

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