SOUTHERN PERU (CUSCO, PUNO, AYACUCHO)

SOUTHERN PERU (CUSCO, PUNO, AYACUCHO)

Southern Peru represents one of the country’s most distinguished and high-altitude coffee zones, encompassing the departments of Cusco, Puno, and Ayacucho. Coffee cultivation here thrives along the eastern Andean slopes, between 1,300 and 2,200 meters above sea level, where cool temperatures, misty forests, and fertile volcanic soils create exceptional growing conditions. The region’s coffee landscape is dominated by smallholder farms—often less than two hectares each— managed through traditional, shade-grown, and organic systems that sustain both biodiversity and bean quality.

Cusco, particularly the La Convención and Quillabamba valleys, is recognized internationally for producing high-quality Arabica—mainly Typica, Caturra, Bourbon, and Catimor varieties. Coffees from Cusco are celebrated for their bright yet balanced acidity, medium body, and complex flavour profiles, featuring notes of red fruit, citrus, honey, and chocolate. The area has also achieved Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status, underscoring its reputation in the specialty market.

To the south, Puno, especially the Sandia and Carabaya provinces, is home to some of Peru’s most prized micro lots. The unique combination of altitude and rich soils yields elegant, floral, and sweet coffees with distinctive clarity—qualities that have earned Puno producers multiple awards in the Cup of Excellence competitions. Ayacucho, though smaller and less known, is emerging as a promising coffee frontier, producing clean, smooth cups with chocolate and caramel tones, as more farmers transition toward specialty and organic production.

Across the southern highlands, coffee is deeply interwoven with indigenous and community based traditions. Cooperatives such as Cecovasa and Valle Inca play a vital role in supporting farmers with training, certification, and market access, ensuring fair trade and sustainability. With growing recognition for its high-altitude terroir and artisanal production, Southern Peru continues to strengthen its position as a premium origin in the global specialty coffee scene.