Sucre: Sunrise, the Crater de Maragua and old Cave Paintings
Antonio Quijarro Province, Bolivia
Discover the Crater of Maragua on a day trip. Hike to a mountaintop for a sunrise above a sea of clouds, explore Pumamachay and Incamachay with cave paintings, and enjoy a vegetarian lunch in Tumpeca
Discover the Maragua Crater and Cordillera de los Frailes from Sucre on a guided hike suitable for nature and culture enthusiasts.
This full-day guided hike starts at dawn near the colonial chapel of Chataquilla, a cultural site for the Jalqa community. Watch the sunrise with panoramic views accompanied by a light breakfast. Afterward, explore the chapel and learn about its local significance.
Begin a 20-minute ascent to a summit offering views of the Tumpeca Valley, Chaunaca community, Maragua Crater, and Sucre city. Continue hiking through diverse geological formations, native flora, and forests where you may spot Andean wildlife.
After two hours, arrive at Pumamachay cave to view ancient cave paintings thousands of years old. Proceed 30 minutes more to Incamachay, another site with prehistoric artworks and evidence of past communities. The trail leads to Tumpeca, a Jalqa community in a valley beside a river.
Enjoy a vegetarian lunch in Maragua before exploring the colorful mineral-rich mountains near Sucre. Visit the Maragua Crater, the Jalqa community of Maragua, and the Devil's Throat area featuring a small waterfall and viewpoint. The tour concludes with a return to Sucre.
Highlights
- Maragua Crater geological formation with expansive views
- Ancient cave paintings at Pumamachay Cave
- Visit Jalqa communities with a vegetarian lunch
- Explore the Devil's Throat waterfall and viewpoint
- Admire colorful mineral-rich mountains near Sucre
Includes
- Private transportation to and from Sucre
- Visit to the colonial chapel of Chataquilla
- Sunrise viewing in the Bolivian Andes
- Light breakfast at the mountain summit
- Guided hike through Cordillera de los Frailes
- Exploration of Pumamachay and Incamachay cave paintings
- Vegetarian lunch in the Jalqa community
- Visit to Maragua Crater and Jalqa community
- Viewpoint at Devil's Throat and a small waterfall
- Entry tickets (10 dollars)
- Headlamps during the initial part of the hike
Excludes
- Optional tips for guide and driver
- Water
- Snacks
Important Information
- The hike after dawn requires caution; stay focused on the trail.
- Flashlights are provided, but bringing an extra is recommended.
- Mornings can be cloudy, windy, and cold; dress accordingly.
Cancellation Policy
Full refund available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
Book early for sunrise availability. Bring sturdy hiking shoes, warm clothing, water, and a flashlight if possible. The best season to visit is during the dry months for safer trail conditions.
