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Related Pages

Information about Amaru Introduction to Amaru Homestay Program (Overview) Homestay Program (Families)   Photos of Amaru General Photos of the Village Weaving Cooperative Carnival Fiesta 2006 Carnival Fiesta 2007 Village Anniversary 2007 Wild Flowers   Maps of Amaru Village Map (Homestay Program)

The small community of Amaru is home to about 160 families. The principle language spoken is Quechua although most people speak a little Spanish. The main source of income is from agriculture (potatoes, corn, beans, etc). There are also several weaving cooperatives that produce high quality hand-woven textiles using natural dyes. However they have no direct outlet for their work and have to sell their products to stall owners in Pisac market who rarely pay a fair price. Many men also work as porters on the Inca Trail.
 

The village of Amaru is located high up in the Andes at an altitude of 3800m. It is a 45 minute drive north from Pisac along a narrow track that winds up into the mountains. The village has a pleasant microclimate sheltered from cold winds with plenty of sun allowing a wide variety of crops and wild flowers to grow. Hummingbirds can often be seen. The community has formed an Association for Rural Tourism and offer a warm and inviting welcome to visitors who are adventurous and interested in learning about the culture and traditions of this community.
Visitors must also be willing to leave behind a few luxuries such as hot showers for a day or so!!