Seven-Headed Palm Tree

The Peruvian coast is surrounded by enigmatic stories, such as the famous Huacachina in Ica. In this same region is the Seven-Headed Palm Tree, notable for its curious growth pattern and the story that stems from it.

Seven-Headed Palm Tree

This palm tree has the characteristic of penetrating the ground or twisting, like the coils of a snake, from a single root system. Although it is known as the Seven-Headed Palm Tree, it only has, and should have, six heads.
The legend of the Seven-Headed Palm Tree came to light with the 1998 flood (El Niño phenomenon), following a prediction by a well-known witch.

History and Legend

Cachiche is synonymous with magic, spells, and healers, and is known as the town of witches. Legend has it that a witch named Julia Hernández Pecho Vda., who died more than 106 years ago, died in the same town. de Díaz, renowned for her spells, said in one of her visions:

“Ica will sink when the seventh head of the palm tree in the dry lagoon sprouts.”

It is believed that the witch was right when a flood occurred in January 1998, devastating nearly a thousand homes. Locals say that the palm tree had sprouted its seventh head that year, lending credence to the vision. Since then, every year the residents of Cachiche remember to cut down or burn the seventh head.

Where is it located?

The 7-headed palm tree is located in the Cachiche district of Ica, 3 kilometers from the city of Ica.

How to get there?

From Lima to Ica:

1. Take a bus or collective transportation service from the company of your choice (Cruz del Sur), a trip of approximately 6 hours (approximately 60 soles).
2. Private transportation

From Ica to Cachiche:

a. Taxi or motorcycle taxi (approximately 20 soles). They will drop you off at the attraction.
b. Walking, approximately 1 hour.

With a travel agency, you can choose to visit as part of a tour.

What to do in Cachiche?

• Visit the Witches’ Theme Park, where cultural activities, dances, and plays are held in the middle of a Huarango forest.
• We can consult with the “psychics” and participate in the rituals and customs of this town.
• Near the park, there is a bronze figure hanging from a tree, known as the “witch,” a representation of Julia Hernández.