Plizio Visual Lab

Tintaya Mine

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Industrial site

Weather…

The Tintaya Mine is located in the Espinar province of the Cusco region and has been one of Peru's most significant copper mines for decades. Originally started as a state-run project in the 1980s, the operation was later privatized and is now part of the Glencore portfolio. The mine produces copper concentrate and copper cathodes from a complex deposit containing both sulfide and oxide ores. In recent years, production has transitioned from the original Tintaya pit to the nearby Antapaccay deposit, which significantly extended the operational lifespan of the entire complex. The facility employs advanced flotation and leaching processes to maximize metal recovery. Tintaya is a cornerstone of the regional economy in Cusco, though it has also been a focal point for complex social dialogues regarding land use and environmental protection. Glencore actively implements social responsibility programs to strengthen ties with local communities and promote sustainable development in the high Andean highlands.

Location: Peru
Nearby: Chivay (43 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Sep–Nov.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	7	7	7	6	5	4	3	4	6	7	8	7
Rain mm	79	89	58	24	7	2	4	4	12	35	27	70

📋 Practical info

🏭

What is this place?

Tintaya Mine is a historically significant copper mine located in the southern Andean region of Cusco. It has played an important role in the regional economy and showcases the development of Peruvian copper mining at high altitude.

🚪

Visiting

The mine is not open to the public, but the external facilities and open pit are visible from the nearby road. Currently no regular tours are offered; visitation is limited to outside viewing.

👀

Where to view it

The best viewpoint is the bend in the panoramic road above the mine, offering a wide view of the terraced pits. From the old railway line that once served the mine, you also get a good perspective over the whole area.

🧺

Local products

Copper products are not sold directly here. In the surrounding villages and markets of Cusco, visitors find traditional textiles, pottery, and silver jewelry, often inspired by the region's mining history.

📆

Active season

Historically the mine operated year-round, with seasonal variations due to Andean weather. Today it may be only intermittently active, with operations depending on copper prices and demand.

➕

Nearby

A visit to Tintaya Mine can be combined with the nearby town of Espinar and its hot springs. The Inca archaeological sites in the Cusco region, such as Raqchi, are easily reachable and provide cultural contrast.