Hacienda Esmeralda is more than a rural property:
It is the spirit of the Andes brought to life
Where tradition, nature, and hospitality come together to offer a truly unique experience. Surrounded by vast prairies and majestic mountains, life flourishes with the serenity of the Peruvian highlands.
What message does the founding family want to share?
We want to share the story of a dream born from hard work and love for the land. Every corner of Hacienda Esmeralda carries the essence of high-Andean life, where history blends with progress and
nature reminds us of the value of simplicity.
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HISTORY & ORIGIN
How was Hacienda Esmeralda founded? Founded in 1950 by Dr. Percy Bellido, a visionary who loved the countryside. He named it “Esmeralda” because of the bright green color of the pastures—a jewel-like glow in the Andes. These lands were once part of the historic Hacienda Pasanacollo and have witnessed the agricultural and cultural growth of the Melgar region. Dr. Bellido was one of the first sheep inseminators in the area, inseminating over 300 sheep in a single day, and he introduced cattle from the United States and Corriedale sheep from Argentina
RURAL LIFE & PRODUCTION
What does Hacienda Esmeralda do today? Today, Esmeralda continues the livestock tradition it was built on. We raise llamas, alpacas, and cattle, and we produce artisanal cheese using techniques passed down through generations. Life on the hacienda combines daily farm work with deep respect for the land and its cycles.
TOURISM & EXPERIENCES
What experiences can visitors enjoy?
Visitors can experience horseback riding, guided hikes, photography walks, and visits to nearby attractions such as Pukara, known for its iconic ceramic bulls and its rich archaeological history. Guests can also explore Mauka Yaqta, visit natural hot springs, witness traditional alpaca shearing, participate in cheese-making workshops, and enjoy seasonal Andean gastronomy. A ceremonial hill with a traditional Andean “Pago a la Tierra” ritual marks one of the most meaningful cultural activities on the property
How can visitors reach Hacienda Esmeralda?
Located in Nuñoa, Melgar, Puno, Peru.
- From Cusco: 6–7 hours by road
- From Juliaca: 2.5 hours.
- From Ayaviri: 45 minutes
Nearby attractions include Pukara, Mauka Yaqta, natural hot springs, and stunning highland landscapes.
CHEESE-MAKING TRADITION
How is artisanal cheese tradition kept alive?
Cheese production has been a family tradition since the hacienda’s founding. Every cheese is made by hand, from milking to pressing, using ancestral techniques passed down for decades. Visitors can participate in hands-on workshops and craft their own cheese.
COMMUNITY & CULTURE
Who makes life at Hacienda Esmeralda possible?
Our greatest treasure is our people. Families who have grown together with the hacienda preserve traditions, celebrate local festivities, play Andean music, weave, farm, and teach visitors the true value of community.
NATURE & SUSTAINABILITY
How does Hacienda Esmeralda protect its environment?
We practice reforestation, responsible water use, and animal welfare. Solar energy systems and solar water heaters power the property sustainably. Every action ensures a balance between production and conservation for future generations.