Millpu Turquoise Pools Day Trip from Ayacucho

Summary

Turquoise Waters Hike & Swim with Local Guide

Swim in Millpu’s famous turquoise waters on this day trip from Ayacucho with a local guide. Hike through dramatic canyon scenery, share lunch by the river, and hear stories from people who grew up here—moments you’ll remember long after you leave Peru.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the way the sunlight bounced off those turquoise pools — not blue, not green, just this impossible color that made me stop mid-step. Our guide, Maribel, laughed when I tried to describe it in Spanish (“como… una piedra preciosa?”), and she nodded but said there’s really no word for it. The air up here near Circamarca is thin and smells like wet grass after last night’s rain, and you can hear nothing but water moving over stone. I didn’t expect to feel so quiet inside.

The drive from Ayacucho took about three and a half hours — long enough for my legs to get stiff, but honestly the views out the window kept me awake. We passed tiny villages where kids waved at our van (I waved back; one of them stuck their tongue out and grinned). When we finally got to Millpu, Maribel handed out coca leaves “por si acaso” for altitude. The walk down into the canyon is rocky in places, and I slipped once (nothing dramatic — just a muddy shoe), but she was right there with a hand. The pools themselves are lined up like steps, each one clearer than the last. I dipped my feet in first — freezing, but after a minute I just went for it. Still can’t believe how cold it was.

Lunch was simple — bread, cheese, fruit — eaten sitting on a flat rock while watching local kids splash each other at the far end of the river. There’s something about eating outside after swimming that makes everything taste better. Maribel told us stories about growing up nearby; apparently her uncle used to fish here before tourists ever came. She pointed out some wildflowers whose names I’ve already forgotten (should’ve written them down). The sun started to dip behind the cliffs and everything turned gold for a second — that part sticks with me.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Turquoise Waters Millpu

• Explore Turquoise Waters and swim

Top questions

How long does the day trip to Millpu take from Ayacucho?

The drive is about 3.5 hours each way, plus time spent hiking and swimming at Millpu.

Is swimming allowed in the turquoise pools?

Yes, you can swim in most of the pools—just be prepared for very cold water!

What months do the pools have their turquoise color?

The best time is May to November; outside these months, colors may be less vivid due to rain.

Is lunch included on this tour?

A simple picnic lunch is provided during your visit by the river.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?

No—the hike involves uneven terrain and some steep sections; moderate fitness is needed.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation from Ayacucho with hotel pickup, guidance throughout by a local expert who knows Millpu well, and a picnic lunch enjoyed beside the turquoise pools before heading back in the afternoon.