Curanderos: Be Healed!

By Rob Rachowiecki

Peruvian medicine man (Rob Rachowiecki)

Bad bug bite? A spat of traveler's disease? Just get dumped by your significant other? Visit one of Peru's curanderos (medicine men), who continue to play a part in Peru's culture. Often associated with Amazon Indian groups, Peru's most famous curanderos are found in the remote northern Andean lake region of Huaringas, at about 13,000 feet above sea level and accessible only by foot (or mule) from the small town of Huancabamba. Believers from all walks of life visit the curanderos for medical or personal relationship reasons, and a visit can cost several months' wages for local people, who take these traditions seriously. Foreign visitors are welcome only if they are equally respectful of the medicine men.

Travel Interest Guides

Spring Driving Guide
Top itineraries, family-friendly asphalt-obsessed exploration, global four-wheel touring, tips, photos—it's all here.

Rafting Guide
From riotous to lazy, GORPTravel offers a state-by-state guide to the whitewater of the United States.

Family Travel Guide
Our esteemed travel experts pick the best places, hotels, and attractions, and offer sage travel wisdom and insight.

Beach Guide
Whether you dive, kiteboard, windsurf, or just strive to perfect the art of sun-bathing, our experts have the spot.

More Travel Resources