Paint your own Torito de Pucará in Cusco
A blank ceramic bull, brushes, paints and a master artisan at your side. In two hours you make it yours and take it home: the Cusco souvenir you made with your own hands, with the balcony over the Plaza de Armas as a backdrop.
What the Torito de Pucará is
The Torito de Pucará is the most recognizable ceramic figure of the southern Andes. It was born in the workshops of Pucará and Checca Pupuja, on the Puno highlands, and for generations it has been placed in pairs on rooftops, on either side of a cross, to protect the home and bring prosperity, fertility and unity to the family.
Its origin is tied to the cattle-branding festivals, where the bull was decorated with ribbons and given chicha to drink; hence the opening on its back and the bright colors. Every torito is painted by hand, and no two are alike.
In the workshop you paint a white ceramic piece using the traditional technique and stencils, guided by a Cusco master artisan.
How the workshop goes
- You choose your torito: size S, M or L, depending on the day's stock.
- The master explains the traditional colors and motifs and helps you settle on a design.
- You paint with brushes, paints and stencils; no drawing skills needed.
- While you work, a drink is included.
- You take the finished torito home the same day.
Who it's for
- Families with kids: a seated, safe, two-hour activity.
- Rainy afternoons in Cusco: it's indoors, with a view of the square.
- Your first day in town, while your body adjusts to the altitude.
- Couples and groups who want a souvenir you can't buy in a shop.
Questions about this workshop
- Do I need to book, or can I just show up?
- It's best to book on WhatsApp with the number of people, so we have toritos and a master ready. If you're nearby, you can also ask on arrival whether there's room.
- Can children take part?
- Yes. Kids paint with the same guidance from the master, and we provide aprons and protectors.
- How much does it cost?
- It depends on the size of the torito: S, M or L. The price for each size is in the details box on this page, per person and tax included, and it already covers the torito, brushes, paints, stencils, the master's guidance and a drink. Book on WhatsApp with the number of people.
- Can I take the torito on the plane?
- Yes. It's painted ceramic, it dries during the workshop, and it travels well in your carry-on if you wrap it.
Book your workshop
Message us on WhatsApp with the day, the time and how many are coming. We're on the second floor of Portal de Comercio 157, entrance through the craft shop.
Book on WhatsApp
