Visits to Four Ruins
When you’re in Cusco, Peru, one of the must-do activities is exploring the four famous ruins nearby. These sites give you a glimpse into the architectural genius and spiritual depth of the Inca civilization. Let me take you on a tour, just like the one I had experience on a guided bus tour with a knowledgeable local guide.
- Sacsayhuamán: This is the closest site to Cusco and perhaps the most impressive. Sacsayhuamán was both a fortress and a ceremonial center.
- Q’enqo: Just a short ride from Sacsayhuamán, Q’enqo is a smaller, somewhat mysterious site. It features a series of underground passages and a carved stone altar where the Incas likely performed rituals.
- Puka Pukara: Often referred to as the “Red Fortress” due to the reddish color of its rocks at sunset.
- Tambomachay: Known as the ‘Bath of the Inca,’ this site is revered for its sophisticated water engineering.
- Special Tour of Qoricancha and the Church of Santo Domingo
Sacsayhuamán
Sacsayhuamán is a fascinating archaeological site located on the outskirts of Cusco, Peru, which once served as a stronghold for the ancient Inca empire. This impressive complex is renowned for its large, meticulously cut stone walls
Archaeologists believe that the construction of Sacsayhuamán began in the 15th century under the reign of the Inca ruler Pachacuti. The site was likely used for religious ceremonies and as a royal retreat for the Inca leaders. Besides its military purpose, Sacsayhuamán also served as a site for various Inca ceremonies, particularly those celebrating the sun god, Inti. The most famous of these is Inti Raymi, the festival of the winter solstice, which continues to be reenacted at Sacsayhuamán every year on June 24th.
- Just north of Cusco’s main city center.
- How to Get There: Sacsayhuamán is only about a 10-minute drive from the heart of Cusco. You can take a taxi, join a guided tour, or even walk if you’re up for a bit of a hike uphill. Walking provides a scenic route that lets you see more of the city.
Unlock the Secrets of Sacsayhuamán
Even though Sacsayhuamán isn’t completely finished, it’s still a breathtaking showcase of Inca architecture and engineering. The site remains an awe-inspiring example of Inca architecture and engineering. The zigzagging walls symbolize the teeth of a puma, coinciding the fortress into a larger plan that shaped Cusco into the form of this sacred animal, with Sacsayhuamán forming the head.
Today, Sacsayhuamán is more than just ruins. Standing there, you’re treated to some of the most spectacular panoramic views of Cusco and the lush mountains that cradle the city. It’s not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a piece of history, recognized and protected as part of the Historic Sanctuary of Cusco, which is also a celebrated UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Mysteries in Stone at Q’enqo
I wish I could explore more of this area, one of the four ruins. We don’t have enough time to walk around the site of Q’enqo in Cusco, Peru. The site is thought to have been a place of worship, where rituals including sacrifices might have been performed.
- Approximately 1 km from Sacsayhuamán.
- How to Get There: Since Q’enqo is very close to Sacsayhuamán, it’s easy to visit right after. You can walk or take a short taxi ride. Most guided tours include both locations due to their proximity.
Puka Pukara
Puka Pukara, also known as the “Red Fortress” in Quechua, is an archaeological site near Cusco, Peru. The site likely served a dual purpose—both as a military checkpoint and a resting place for Incan travelers.
The name “Puka Pukara” comes from the reddish hue of its rocks vibrant during sunset, giving the fortress a majestic look against the backdrop of the Andes. The structure itself is made up of various rooms, terraces, and an intricate system of inner plazas that make it a fascinating place to explore and imagine how life was during the Incan empire.
- Roughly 7 km northeast of Cusco.
- How to Get There: Puka Pukara is accessible by taxi or bus. However, it’s most commonly visited as part of a tour that includes all four sites, which simplifies transportation and provides more context about the site’s history and function.
Puka Pukara: Red Fortress, Rich History
Tambomachay
Tambomachay is an archaeological site located near Cusco, Peru, often referred to as “El Baño del Inca” or “The Bath of the Inca.” It’s renowned for its intricate water features, which are believed to have been used for ceremonial purposes, including rituals of purification and water worship.
Tambomachay itself is an interesting starting point for those venturing towards Machu Picchu, though it’s not directly on the traditional Inca Trail that leads there. Situated about 8 kilometers from Cusco, at an elevation of approximately 3,700 meters (about 12,139 feet.
- About 1 km from Puka Pukara.
- How to Get There: Similar to Puka Pukara, Tambomachay is best visited through a tour or by taking a taxi from Cusco. If you visit Puka Pukara first, you can easily walk to Tambomachay.
Whispers of Water at Tambomachay
Qorikancha
Qoricancha, also known as Coricancha or the Temple of the Sun, is one of the most significant religious sites in Cusco, Peru. Originally, it was a lavish temple dedicated to the worship of the Sun God, Inti, which held immense importance in the Incan Empire.
Glimpse into the Past
Qoricancha: Echoes of Inca Ingenuity
