WELCOME TO TINAJANI
Positioned between Cusco, Puno, and the Colca Valley, this elevated safari-style camp in the Tinajani Canyon is the new star on Peru’s lesser-travelled Southern Travesía, opening in April 2025.
Shaped over millennia by a vast, ancient lake, Tinajani Canyon is otherwise known as the Canyon of the Guardians. According to local legend, its eerie columnar landforms are the petrified remains of giants, frozen in time by the gods.
It has been created by Andean, the team behind some of Peru’s most innovative experiential stays including Cirqa and Puqio. In keeping with their ethos of reimagining historic buildings, a restored Andean farmhouse lies at its heart, with six beautifully-designed tented camps clustered around. Each campamento is made up of two spacious canvas tents – one for sleeping, the other for lounging – alongside a terrace with a private hot tub and breathtaking views.
What we love about Tinajani
- The design and hospitality, with Andean’s signature flawless attention to detail.
- The rich history, mythology and culture – amidst the majestic stillness of the Andes, it leaves you with a profound sense of awe.
- The location, a gateway to both Cusco and Lake Titicaca if travelling overland.
- The vast array of activities designed to connect guests to Peruvian culture.
- Commitment to sustainability environmental responsibility.
- The use of renewable energy sources, water conservation measures, and local conservation efforts.
What to do at Tinajani
Tinajani’s excursions are designed to connect guests with its beauty and mystery, fostering a deep connection to the land, its people and its stories.
Each is curated with the same attention to detail as the camp itself. Wind your way through the canyon, past dramatic viewpoints and pockets of absolute stillness, where the only sound is the wind moving through stone. Explore its subterranean caverns and caves, observing stalactites and stalagmites formed over thousands of years.
Pedal through the nearby Puya Forest Reserve on a mountain bike, discovering the flora and fauna that are native to these high-altitude plains. Visit artisan workshops in the nearby villages of Pucará Lampa and Ayaviri to learn about the craftsmanship of the Altiplano that has been passed down through generations, from intricate weaving to ceramics.
The clear skies and pure air make it an ideal destination to enjoy the breathtaking landscape and stargaze on crisp, clear nights.
Puqio sits about 1.5km southwest of the town of Yanque. To get here, you will fly into Arequipa, before being transferred 3hrs north to the lodge.
When to Travel
May to September
The best time to travel to the Tinajani Valley in Peru is during the dry season, from May – September, when opportunities for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing are at their best. Due to the valley’s altitude, weather can be unpredictable – daytime temperatures can reach up to 19°C, while nighttime temperatures can drop to as low as -2°C. This range is typical for the dry season in the Andean highlands, where clear skies contribute to warmer days and cooler nights.
Adventurous travellers can also visit during other times of the year, especially those looking for more lush, green landscapes, which can be seen during the rainy season.
Looking for more inspiration? Learn more about our bespoke holidays and adventures in Peru, or discover our other luxury properties.
