sacsayhuaman virtual tour

Sacsayhuaman: The Inca Fortress

The imposing fortress of Sacsayhuaman, a brilliant testimony of Inca splendor. This magnificent construction, which began during the reign of the Inca Pachacutec in the 15th century, attracts worldwide admiration for its grandeur and mystery. In this virtual tour, we will discover the secrets, history and architecture that make Sacsayhuaman an unparalleled wonder.

Location and Significance

Where is Sacsayhuaman located?

Just 2 kilometers north of Cusco’s Main Square, Sacsayhuaman rises 3,700 meters above sea level, covering an area of more than 3,000 hectares. This archaeological site offers impressive landscapes with the presence of llamas and falcons, offering a unique connection with nature.

What does Sacsayhuaman mean?

The name Sacsayhuaman, in Quechua, translates as “place where the falcon is satiated”. This denomination reveals the ancestral presence of these majestic birds in the area. Although it is presumed to be a fortress, there is also speculation about its ceremonial use. During the arrival of the Spaniards in the 16th century, they called it a ‘fortress’ after repelling the attack during the Inca rebellion of Vilcabamba.

Discovering Inca Architecture

How did the Incas build Sacsayhuaman?

The enigma persists: How did the Incas erect this marvel with structures implausible for the time? Sacred constructions such as towers, shrines, warehouses, roads and aqueducts are part of this architectural masterpiece. The main wall, built in zigzag with gigantic stones weighing up to 125 tons, is a testament to Inca construction genius.

What to see in Sacsayhuaman?

From its imposing towers, such as Muyucmarca, Paucamarca and Sallaqmarca, to the intricate chincanas and impressive rodaderos, every corner of Sacsayhuaman tells a fascinating story. We also discover the enclosures, the jagged walls and trapezoidal gates that connect to Cusco’s Plaza de Armas.

Located on the zigzag walls, the towers like Muyucmarca, Paucamarca and Sallaqmarca stand out. The tower of Cahuide has an intriguing history, witnessing the Inca resistance in 1536.

Group of Enclosures

Strategically placed rooms near the towers face the Plaza de Armas, connected by trapezoidal doors.

The Walls (Los Baluartes)

Formed by jagged platforms, the massive limestone walls fit together perfectly, puzzling the early Spaniards who attributed them to demons.

Trapezoidal doors in the middle part of the bastions, with names like Ajawanapunku, T’iopunku and Wiracochapunku, served as entrances to the area of the towers.

Suchuna (Rodaderos)

Natural formations of diorite, the rocks molded over time offer a unique spectacle.

The throne of the Inca

Known as the throne of the Inca, or K’usilluc Jink’ian (where the monkey bows), it is a masterpiece of symmetry. Its meticulous polishing and perfect form have given it the status of ‘Throne’.

Chincanas (Tunnels)

Two subway tunnels, the largest connecting to the Coricancha, add to the mystery of the site, with tales of travelers who failed to find their end.

Visiting Sacsayhuaman

How to get to Sacsayhuaman?

The fortress is only a 10-minute drive from the Plaza de Armas or a 45-minute walk. Alternatively, the City Tour offers transportation and access with the Cusco Tourist Ticket.

How much does it cost to visit Sacsayhuaman?

To explore this historic enclave requires the Cusco Tourist Ticket, which costs 70 soles. Another option is a ‘City Tour Cusco’, which covers Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Pucapucara and Tambomachay, with prices varying according to the agency.

Important information about Sacsayhuaman

Sacsayhuaman is located at 3,700 meters above sea level, with a dry and temperate climate. Open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., the site offers panoramic views and a unique experience. History is interwoven with architecture in a journey that transcends time.

To visit Sacsayhuaman, the Cusco Tourist Ticket is required, with a cost of 70 soles. Another option is the ‘City Tour Cusco’, with a variable price between 30 and 60 dollars. This includes entrance to Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Pucapucara and Tambomachay.

Weather, Schedule and More

Climate: Temperate and dry, with an average temperature of 12°C (54°F). The dry season (April to October) is ideal for visits.
Hours: Open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Altitude: Approximately 3,700 meters above sea level.
Size: Huge, covering 3,093 hectares.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sacsayhuaman

1) is sacsayhuaman open all year round.

Yes, except for emergencies, it remains open.

2) Is there an entrance ticket only to visit Sacsayhuaman?

No, access is with the Cusco Tourist Ticket, including other sites.

3) Can I get tour guides at Sacsayhuaman?

Yes, guides are available at the entrance.

4) What is the most famous construction in Sacsayhuaman?

From the walls to the Inca throne, each structure has its charm.

5) What does Sacsayhuaman represent?

The Quechua word means ‘satisfied falcon’, reflecting the abundance of these birds.

6) What can you do in Sacsayhuaman?

A historical tour and panoramic views are not to be missed.

7) When is the best time to visit Sacsayhuamán?

Sunny days from April to October are ideal.

8) Are there tours to Sacsayhuamán?

Yes, the ‘City Tour Cusco’ offers a complete experience, with variable prices.

To explore Sacsayhuamán is to immerse yourself in Inca grandeur, a journey where history merges with monumental architecture. The fortress awaits, eternal witness of a glorious past.

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How to Visit Sacsayhuaman + the Surrounding Ruins

Posted by Di Minardi | Last updated Nov 6, 2022

This post contains affiliate links.

A visit to the Sacsayhuaman ruins is a must from Cusco and is a perfect short morning or afternoon trip.

Sacsayhuaman and its partner ruins of Qenko, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay are the closest ruins to Cusco and easily accessible by taxi, bus, or even by foot from Plaza de Armas in Cusco’s city center.

If you want to check them out, this guide to visiting the Sacsayhuaman ruins covers everything you need to know, including:

How to get from Cusco to Sacsayhuaman

How to get from Sacsayhuaman to Qenko, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay

How to return to Cusco by taxi or by bus

How much does it cost to visit Sacsayhuaman?

What to see at the Sacsayhuaman ruins
What to see at the Qenko ruins
What to see at the Puka Pukara ruins
What to see at the Tambomachay ruins
How to discover an extra set of secret ruins outside of the main circuit
And much more!

Sacsayhuaman boasts gorgeous views of the city from high on the surrounding mountains – a visit here is not something you’ll soon forget. So, add a self-guided tour of Sacsayhuaman to your Cusco itinerary with this guide!

The Sacsayhuaman ruins are your destination – this Sacsayhuaman guide will take you there!

How To Get to Sacsayhuaman by Taxi

There are two popular ways to get from Cusco to Sacsayhuaman

You can go by taxi, which is the fastest and easiest way to reach the Sacsayhuaman ruins from Cusco, or you can walk to Sacsayhuaman, which is the most budget friendly way to reach the ruins from Cusco.

I’ll tell you how to do both.

The easiest way to get to the Sacsayhuaman ruins from Cusco is to grab a taxi from the city center. The drive is only about 10 minutes and should cost about 10 soles / 3 usd.

Many taxi drivers will try to convince you to hit all four ruins at once with them for a set price of 40 or 50 soles / 13 to 16 usd which is a good choice for convenience alone. If you don’t think you have it in you to climb hundreds of stairs to walk from Cusco to Sacsayhuaman, then the taxi is the best way for you to reach the ruins.

If you’re in a group of three or four, transportation for this whole outing can be done for 5 usd or less per person.

If you don’t want to walk to Sacsayhuaman from Cusco but also don’t want to spend ~15 usd on the taxi, it’s possible to visit all four ruins for a cheaper price by using separate taxis for the short trips between each one.

All of ruins are situated along the main highway to Pisac so it’s easy to grab a new taxi each time you’re ready to go to the next one.

If these stairs don’t scare you, you might be ready to walk to Sacsayhuaman

How to Walk to Sacsayhuaman from Cusco

I prefer the most scenic route (ok, and to save money) so Dan and I decided to walk from Cusco to Sacsayhuaman, which takes about 30 minutes.

The climb up hundreds of stairs was tough (especially in high altitude) but the views were insane and it was nice to get a little exercise on the weekend as well.

So, how do you walk to Sacsayhuaman from Cusco? Just follow these steps:

Start at Plaza de Armas
Walk down the road that runs along the right side of the Cathedral
Turn left on Choqechaka road
Turn right on the Atoc’sekuchi staircase
Climb the staircase until you reach the main road, where you will turn left
Walk along the road for a few minutes and you’ll see the Cristo Blanco (Jesus) statue
Turn left on the gravel road just past the Cristo Blanco statue
Continue along the gravel road and through a field to the entrance to Sacsayhuaman.

You can also put Cristo Blanco as your destination in Google Maps and it’ll lead you straight there on the route listed above. Then, after you enjoy the view, walk along the gravel road behind it (which you’ll also see on Google Maps) to continue to Sacsayhuaman.

There is a lot to see and do in this area of Cusco so I also recommend visiting the Chacan Cave and Temple of the Moon that are right nearby with my handy step-by-step guide!

Snappin’ a selfie at the Cristo Blanco view point

These ruins are laid out in an easy-to-follow ‘circuit’ and the best order to visit them is:

Saysayhuaman
Puka Pukara
Tambomachay

After visiting each ruin, you can go to the main road and wave down a taxi to take you to the next one.

A taxi from Sacsayhuaman to Qenko will cost about 5 soles/ $1.50 usd.

The taxi from Qenko to Puka Pukara will cost around 8 soles/ $2.25 usd more.

Then, from Puka Pukara you can walk to Tambomachay.

If you’re up for more adventure, you can rent a horse from vendors at the entrance to Sacsayhuaman to take you to the rest of the ruins as well.

How to get from the Sacsayhuaman Ruins to Cusco

If you follow the route from Sacsayhuaman to Qenko to Puka Pukara to Tambomachay, the last leg of your trip will be from the Tambomachay ruins back to Cusco.

The ruins are right on the main road between Cusco and Pisac so there are always taxis, buses, and colectivos (shared vans) passing by.

Wait on the side of the road and flag whatever passes by first.

A taxi will be the most expensive option so if you want to continue saving money, I recommend waiting for a colectivo, the second cheapest option, or the bus, which is the cheapest option at only 1 soles / .30 usd per person.

Sacsayhuaman entrance ticket – Dan and I bought the 10-day Boleto Turistico

The cost to visit the Sacsayhuaman ruins can be divided into two categories: the transportation cost, and the Sacsayhuaman entrance fee.

For transportation from Cusco to Sacsayhuaman and back we paid 15 soles / 4.50 usd total for two people (if you decide to take a taxi, this will go up).

The Sacsayhuaman admission price is a little more confusing because you need to buy the Boleto Turistico (tourist ticket). The Boleto Turistico is sold at the Sacsayhuaman entrance, but, Cusco is unique in that you can’t buy single entrance tickets to the surrounding ruins.

Instead, you have to buy the tourist ticket for one, two, or ten days. This tourist ticket then grants you entrance to multiple popular sites around Cusco, with Sacsayhuaman, Qenko, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay among them.

The one-day partial Cusco Tourist Ticket with only entrances to Sacsayhuaman, Qenko, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay costs 70 soles / 25 usd.

But if you’re planning to visit more sites in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, buying the two-day or even the ten-day tourist ticket might make more sense financially, so make sure to weigh your options and know which ticket you want before you go!

Another view of the Sacsayhuaman ruins

What to See at the Sacsayhuaman Ruins

Now you knnow how to get to Sacsayhuaman and how much it costs to see the four ruins, it’s time to dive into what you’ll see when you finally get there!

Sacsayhuaman is the first and largest of the four ruins. They are about 500 years old and were used as a fortress (due to thre strategic location on top of the hill) and had temples, storage, and more.

The Incan stone walls are massive and still well maintained, and you can wander through archways, see ceremonial altars, and much more. As a photographer, my favorite part of the Sacsayhuaman ruins was definitely the sweeping view of the city of Cusco laid out below my feet.

Plan to spend the most time at Sacsayhuaman because these are by far the largest ruins of the four on this route.

Qenko ruins and view of Cusco

What to See at the Qenko Ruins

Qenko is second on the list and the smallest of the four ruins. This is because it was built as a house and ceremonial site for an important Inca citizen.

The home is unique because it’s nestled into a large rock that you can still walk through today. Make sure you go all the way inside the ruins because you can still visit the cold and eerie ritual alter inside.

The Puka Pukara ruins

What to see at the Puka Pukara Ruins

Puka Pukara is the third ruin you’ll visit on your half-day trip to Sacsayhuaman.

This site was a military fortress, so its strategically located high above the Cusco valley.

Even though it’s small, Puka Pukara boasts beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and was my favorite of the four ruins.

Still-working Inca aquaducts at the Tambomacahy ruins

What to see at the Tambomachay Ruins

The final stop on your tour of the four ruins is Tambomachay.

These are set back from the road into a quiet mountainside retreat. The bubbling streams are one of the first things I noticed, and I quickly learned that Tambomachay is thought to have been built to worship the god of water.

Surprisingly, running water still flows through the aquaducts in this ancient and peaceful Incan ruin, which is pretty amazing!

Secret ruins near Qenko

How to visit the secret ruins on the Sacsayhuaman Circuit

If you haven’t had enough history in your day, visit this fifth bonus ruin on your day trip to Sacsayhuaman.

Just across the street from Qenko there’s another set of ruins hidden in the trees that are completely free to access.

After a quick walk through the forest, you’ll find a quiet but imposing ruin that makes a perfect place to enjoy a picnic away from the crowds.

Inside the Sacsayhuaman ruins

What to Pack for the Sacsayhuaman Day Trip from Cusco

If you decide to walk to the ruins from Cusco I recommend wearing sturdy hiking boots and bringing a small day pack with:

Water bottles
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Cash for the entrance tickets

Visit the Sacsayhuaman Ruins With This Complete Guide

Visiting Sacsayhuaman, Qenko, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay is an interesting and beautiful half day trip from Cusco.

Whether you decide to take a taxi to the ruins or hike to Sacsayhuaman, they’re easy and convenient to reach from the Cusco city center and should definitely be added to your Peru itinerary.

This city is an unforgettable vacation destination because it’s so full of Incan history. Of course, you can take a tour into the Sacred Valley or climb Machu Picchu to see amazing ruins, but there are also so many little pieces of the Incan puzzle right here in Cusco’s backyard just waiting to be explored.

Now, you can use this guide to walk from Cusco to Sacsayhuaman and see them all!

Ready to go?

Explore unique stays on Airbnb – like these crazy sky lodges on a side of a cliff in the Sacred Valley or this tiny home in the Cusco hills – and the top-rated hotels on Booking.com to plan the perfect night, weekend, or long-term stay in the city.

Then, check out the top food, nature, and cultural experiences on Airbnb to round out your itinerary (or, book a best of Peru tour with Intrepid to finish your travel planning in once click!).

This article is part of the Cusco Hiking series. Read the rest below:

How to Hike to Huchuy Qosqo Without a Guide

6 Different Ways to Get to Machu Picchu from Cusco

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: Everything You Need to Know

How to Visit Mount Vinicunca – Peru’s Rainbow Mountain

How to Visit Chacan Cave and the Temple of the Moon

How to Visit Tipon and Piquillacta on a Half-Day Trip from Cusco

Then, explore the complete Peru series for more tips on what to see, do, eat, drink, and discover in Cusco and beyond.

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Sacsayhuaman: All You Need To Know

The complete 2024 guide on everything about Cusco's Sacsayhuaman including history, what to see, weather, and much more!

One of the most astonishing archeological complexes ever discovered, Sacsayhuaman has become an all-but-compulsory destination in Peru due to its beauty and grandeur. People from all over the world gather to revel in the history of the magnificent structure. Our all-you-need-to-know guide will show you why Sacsayhuaman is a must-see on your list of destinations for 2024 . Make sure that you don’t miss out!

Did you know: Peru Hop was setup by 2 Irish guys in 2013 and has been voted #1 Travel Company in Peru for 2024 – Click here for more info .

Where is Sacsayhuaman?

What does sacsayhuaman mean, how to get to sacsayhuaman.

Sacsayhuaman history

How was Sacsayhuaman built?

How was it designed and what was the function, main attractions, the towers of sacsayhuaman, group of enclosures, the throne of the inca (or k’usilluc jink’ian), how was it built, important information about sacsayhuaman, visit sacsayhuaman soon.

The archeological complex is located 2 km north of the main square of the city of Cusco and rests 3700 meters above sea level (an extra 300 meters to Cusco centrals 3,399 meters). It’s the highest part of the city of Cusco and covers an area of more than 3 thousands hectares, on a hill surrounded by huge mountains. The site has beautiful landscapes and is home to a great diversity of plants and animals, as llamas and hawks can also be found here in large numbers.

Sacsayhuaman (also known as Saksaywaman or Saqsawaman) is a Quechua word that can be translated as: “Saqsay”- “Satisfy”, and “Huaman”-“Hawk”, meaning “the place where the hawk is satisfied”. It is believed that the complex was given this name due to the presence of the hawks, and legends tell of the Inca who fed a hawk that landed on his shoulders. Current theories argue that the complex served as a fortress as well as a ceremonial center but the truth is that no one is really sure exactly what Sacsayhuaman was before the Spanish invaded, at which point it was used as a fortress.

There is another theory about the name of the structure. This theory claims that all of Cusco was laid out to form a puma shape when seen from above, this is plausible as the puma was a very sacred animal to the Inca people. If this is the case, Sacsayhuaman was in the place of the animals head. One of the translations of the word Sacsayhuaman is Puma, and that this animal is the one who watch and take care of everything.

If you would like to book a tour to see Sacsayhuaman then check out Find Local Trips to find the perfect tour for you. We recommend using a tour, so that you can fully understand and appreciate the different areas of the ruins. However, if you decide to go alone then you can get a taxi up- all drivers in Cusco will know the direction, or you can go on foot. If you decide to go on foot, follow these directions (starting from Plaza de Armas).

Go up Suecia street, take Huaynapata street, then follow Resbalosa street. Turn right after San Cristobal church and follow the highway. Finally, you will join the old Inca road to Sacsayhuaman. Keep in mind that the climb is very steep and takes at 30 – 40 minutes, so don’t forget to bring your bottle of water with you, and ensure that your body is acclimatized to the altitude. At the top of this hill is where the ruin rests.

Sacsayhuaman History

Sacsayhuaman was the most important military base of the Inca Empire, and has been compared in greatness with the Roman Colosseum. The whole structure is a hugely impressive work of engineering and is considered one of the Inca structures that will remain in Peru forever.

Even today, Sacsayhuaman is still used, now mostly for reenactments of Inca-inspired ceremonies. It is possible to buy tickets to see these events which immitate and celebrate Inca tradition.

Sacsayhuaman was constructed during the reign of the Inca Pachacuti and his successors. It’s massive, well-built walls remain today as a testimony not only to Inca power, but also the skills of Inca architects and their progressive buildings and knowledge of stonemasonry.

The first structure of Sacsayhuaman was made using only mud and clay as was typical in Inca buildings, and following Inca leaders gradually replaced the clay bricks with the enormous stones that you see today. In fact, many of these stones are over 100 tones, and more than 4 meters in height.

The fortress was the largest of many structures built by the Incas (between the 14th and 15th century). Built on a platform of rock high above the capital, it took over 50 years and 20,000 men to build it. The men who built it were signed up using the ‘mita’ which was a form of community service, compulsory for every citizen of the empire. It required two years of dedicated service between the ages of 18 and 20.

It may not surprise you to hear that the Inca were incredibly skilled at stonework. It was a part of their normal culture to quarry and shape enormous rocks, and to move them with a system of ropes, logs and levers. By using smaller stones and sand to finish the worked stone, the look that you see is achieved.

The fortress has three different terraces which lay one behind the other. The walls reach a height of 18 meters and stretch over 540 meters. Each wall has up to 40 segments which allowed defenders to catch attackers in a crossfire. Because of the many different kinds of architecture, the function of Sacsayhuaman is still up for debate by many historians.

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Other scholars debate that it may have been a sanctuary, as the complex included many temples, most notably the one dedicated to the Inca Sun god Inti . There is an area of stepped terracing cut into the side of the Rodadero Hill, which is thought to have been a religious shrine, perhaps dedicated to the Pachamama (the mother earth).

There is even some evidence that shows that this archeological site was also used as a storage depot, where the Inca probably kept arms, armours, foodstuffs, valuable textiles, ceramics, metal tools and precious metals.

What is known for certain is that Sacsayhuaman was used as a fortress during the Spanish conquest. The Spanish, led by Francisco Pizarro, conquered Cusco after killing Inca Atahualpa. It was then that Pizarro sent his army to attack Sacsayhuaman; using his horses to get close and ladders to climb the walls. The strategy was successful and the Spanish took over the fortress.

After the Inca Empire was defeated, Sacsayhuaman was partially dismantled by the Spanish, as they wanted to destroy the idea of Inca rebellions. The remainder of the structure was covered in earth, leaving no visible remains of the magnificent construction. That is, until 1934, when it was rediscovered during excavations.

Nowadays, the complex is very important for the residents, as it is the place where the annual Inca festival takes place: the Inti Raymi or “the party of the Sun”, which is held every 24th of June at the winter solstice. In the time of the Inca, this was a ceremony where a sacrifice was offered to the Sun god “Inti”.

In modern times, local people represent this ceremony with colorful costumes, festive music and local food. It is possible to attend one of these events, but a ticket must be purchased beforehand; and the ceremony no longer uses a sacrifice, merely a representation.

This was one of the most important places for the Incas as it was the center of celebration ceremonies, rituals and sacrifices. Thousands of people gathered here to see some of the most beautiful and significant rituals of the entire empire. Here, the battle of Sacsayhuaman took place, and many native people died defending the empire. Let yourself be captivated by the history and mystery that fills each wall of the complex.

These are called Muyuccmarca, Paucarmarca, Sallaqmarca, and are located on the top of the walls. There was plenty of water here thanks to aqueducts that can still be seen today.

It is said that the Inca Titu Cusi Huallpa (also known as Cahuide) jumped from the highest part of the Muyucmarca tower to avoid becoming a Spanish prisoner during the Inca resistance of 1536.

The remains of the Paucarmarca tower are located at the east of the complex. It is believed that this tower was dedicated to the stars.

In Quechua “Sallaq” means rough, rocky and “Marca” means population. Currently, just the foundations of the Sallaqmarca tower can be seen as the building was destroyed in the early days of the colony.

Located at the top of the hills, these beautiful rooms overlook the city and squares. The rooms are characteristically long and narrow, interconnected by a series of trapezoidal doors, which are typical of the architectural style of the Inca.

For the Incas this meant “where the monkey climbs”, and it is a succession of seats carved into the rock, boasting a deep aesthetic beauty.

The chincanas are the tunnels and underground caves of Sacsayhuaman. There are 2, the smallest of which is short in length and has become very popular for travelers to visit. The larger one is further north, under a large limestone rock, and so is not easily accessible. Theses amazing tunnels are the result of the rock erosion from groundwater in the caves. Don’t forget to bring your camera to snap some unforgettable shots of this ancient place.

3 platforms feature toothlike inlets and are made of limestone and are assembled to form this incredible structure. Because of the sheer size of Sacsayhuaman, the Spanish attributed the building of it to demons, and even today there are people who say that it was aliens who are responsible for it. However we do know that it was pure and simple Inca-man-power that accomplished this impressive feat.

Weather: Sacsayhuaman has weather that is almost identical to that in Cusco. The annual average temperature is 12°C and there are two seasons during the year. The rainy season (from November to March) and the dry season (from April to October). Temperatures typically stay the same through the different seasons, although you can expect a lot more wet weather during the rainy season.

Opening Times: The entry times to Sacsayhuaman are Monday-Sunday 7:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Prices: Entry included in Tourist Ticket that costs around S/. 70 to S/. 130. You must buy a tourist ticket for most of the attractions in Cusco.

Don’t miss out the opportunity to immerse yourself in this ancient world of Sacsayhuaman. Give yourself the opportunity to discover why this archeological complex is drawing more and more people from all around the world. You will be charmed, not just for the astonishing building work, but also for the lovely local animals you can find here, like llamas and hawks. Put Sacsayhuaman at the top of your list of destinations to visit in Peru.

Visiting the Inca Ruins of Sacsayhuaman in Peru (Full Guide!)

Last Updated on April 8, 2024 by Kelly

If you’re planning a trip to visit Machu Picchu, you’ll undoubtedly spend time in the city of Cusco. Cusco was once the capital of the Inca empire, and it contains some of the most notable Inca ruins in Peru. Located high on a hill overlooking Cusco, Sacsayhuaman is one of the most famous Inca archaeological sites in the area. Sacsayhuaman is an Inca complex that was built during the 15th century. Much like Machu Picchu, it contains a citadel and religious sites. It also served as a military fortress.

We spent a full day exploring Sacsayhuaman, and we’re excited to share our photos and tips. In this post, we’ll share a complete guide for visiting Sacsayhuaman in Cusco, Peru .

How to Get to There

It’s very easy to reach Sacsayhuaman while in Cusco. The ruins are located to the north on the outskirts of town.

There are two primary options for reaching the ruins from downtown Cusco. You can walk to the ruins , or you can take a taxi .

When we visited Sacsayhuaman, we chose to walk to the ruins. The walk was a bit uphill, but it was manageable even though we were still adjusting to the altitude. We thought it was a great warm-up for our upcoming hike on the Inca Trail !

Walking Route to Sacsayhuaman

From the northeast corner of the Plaza de Armas, walk north until you reach Suecia street. Take a right on Waynapata, and then an almost immediate left on Resbalosa. Then, take a right on Don Bosco. Continue up the hill and you will see the entrance to Sacsayhuaman. The walk is about half a mile long (750 meters) and should take about 30 minutes. (Maybe a little longer if you stop to rest as you make your way up the hill.)

We recommend taking this route because the Mirador de Plaza San Cristobal is along the way. You’ll also get to see the San Cristobal church which is quite beautiful. You can stop at this lookout for a beautiful view of the city and the Plaza de Armas!

Once you make your way through the entrance, you’ll do more walking as you explore the ruins.

Taking a Taxi to Sacsayhuaman

You can easily arrange a taxi to take you to Sacsayhuaman. You can ask your hotel’s front desk staff to call a taxi for you, or you can find one near the Plaza de Armas. You can always walk back to town after your visit (way easier going downhill!), or you can hire a taxi from the site’s exit.

About Sacsayhuaman

Sacsayhuaman has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983. You’ll find many spellings of the site around town and online. Other spellings of the ruins include Saksaywaman, Saqsawaman, and Saqsayhuman. The name on the entrance is spelled Saqsaywaman, but over the years, Sacsayhuaman is the most common spelling. (So don’t get confused if you see multiple spellings while you’re visiting… they all refer to the same place!)

The name Sacsayhuaman roughly translates to “Satisfied Falcon” in the Quechua language. Similar reported translations are “Royal Eagle” and “Place Where the Hawk is Satiated.”

Sacsayhuaman was built in the 15th century under emperor Pachacuti.

Although Machu Picchu is the most famous Inca archaeological site, Sacsayhuaman is technically the largest structure built by the Inca . (It deserves more credit!)

Some of the archeological work at Sacsayhuaman has found structures from the Killke people, which pre-date the Inca. It’s unclear what the Killke used the site for, but it’s clearly held significance to the indigenous people for hundreds of years. Evidence shows that the indigenous people inhabited the area since 900 AD.

The Inca constructed the city of Cusco to resemble the shape of puma from an aerial view. If that’s the case, then Sacsayhuaman represented the head of the puma .

What to See

The ruins of Sacsayhuaman consist of several structures. The site is huge, covering more than 3,000 hectares.

Sacsayhuaman is divided into three primary areas: the walled fortress, the parade ground, and the Rodadero (site of religious ceremonies).

The most striking aspect of Sacsayhuaman are the walls that surround the complex. The walls were built from giant boulders that were carefully shaped to interlock with each other. (More about the construction of Sacsayhuaman later!)

The walls consist of 3 tiers that were built in a zigzag pattern. It’s believed that these walls represent the teeth of the puma.

One of the main highlights is a large plaza that was used for ceremonies. To this day, the festival of Inti Raymi is celebrated at Sacsayhuaman.

Sacsayhuaman also contains lots of temples , the most famous of which is dedicated to the Sun God Inti.

There are also remnants of three towers : Muyuccmarca, Paucarmarca, and Sallaqmarca. Unfortunately, the towers are no longer standing after the Spanish removed many of the stones to construct their own buildings. However, you can see the foundations for the towers.

Sacsayhuaman also contains a series of aqueducts, which ensured fresh water to its inhabitants.

How it Was Built

Construction for Sacsayhuaman began under emperor Pachacuti in the 15th century. It took 20,000 people between 60 to 90 years to finish it.

The construction of Sacsayhuaman is an engineering marvel considering that the Inca people did not use the wheel to transport the large boulders. Some of the largest boulders at Sacsayhuaman weigh anywhere between 100 and 200 tonnes.

The Inca didn’t have the use of iron or steel to cut the stones. The stones were cut precisely so that they could fit together without the use of mortar. The stones were also positioned to interlock with each other so that they could withstand earthquakes. Even 500 years later, the walls still stand.

Visiting Information

You’ll need to purchase tickets to enter Sacsayhuaman. The entrance to Sacsayhuaman is included in the Boleto Turistico (General Tourist Ticket). If you purchase the tourist ticket, you’ll be able to see multiple sites during the course of 10 days.

At the time of this writing, it costs 130 soles to purchase the full tourist ticket to enter Sacsayhuaman. The hours of operation are from 7am to 5:30pm. Be sure to check operating hours prior to planning your own visit.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I may earn commissions from qualifying purchases.

Tips for Visiting

Be mindful of the altitude : If you just recently arrived in Cusco, it’ll take time for your body to adjust to the altitude. We definitely took our time exploring the ruins and stopped often to rest.
Bring water : Keep yourself hydrated as you explore. The ruins of Sacsayhuaman are unshaded and it can get pretty hot in direct sunlight.
Make sure your phone is fully charged and download offline maps : You’ll want to use your phone for navigation and photos. It helps to download offline maps ahead of time so that you can use your phone for navigation even if you don’t have cell service or WiFi.
Bring soles with you : Make sure that you bring small change in the local currency (soles). If you want to purchase snacks or souvenirs along the way, many businesses only accept soles.
Save time for Cristo Blanco : The Cristo Blanco statue isn’t far from Sacsayhuaman. It’s only about a 10-15 minute walk. Save a little time at the end of your visit to see the statue up close, as well as the view of Cusco!

Tours of Sacsayhuaman

There are several tour options that you can book ahead of time to really get the most out of your experience to Sacsayhuaman. We didn’t book a tour, and we really regretted it! We don’t often book tours, but this is one place where it would have been really helpful to have a guide. Whereas we just wandered around the ruins admiring the stones, a guide would be able to tell you the details about each part of the fortress, as well as its cultural and historical significance.

Full-Day Tour of Cusco, Puka Pukara, Tambomachay, and Sacsayhuaman : This full-day tour will take you to the aforementioned sites, as well as the San Pedro Market, Coricancha Temple, and the Plaza de Armas.

Our Experience at Sacsayhuaman

We visited Sacsayhuaman during one of our first days in Cusco. We had bought the Boleto Turistico (General Tourist Ticket) and wanted to see some of the local sights. We had 2 days in Cusco before we were set to hike the Inca Trail to see Machu Picchu, and then another day in Cusco after we got back from Machu Picchu. Of our 3 total days in Cusco, we spent spent one day exploring the city, one day exploring the ruins of Pisac in the Sacred Valley , and then another day seeing Moray and the Salineras de Maras .

We decided to visit Sacsayhuaman after checking out the Plaza de Armas. We saw that it wasn’t too long of a walk, so we opted to walk up the hill instead of taking a taxi. The walk was a lot harder than we gave it credit for due to the altitude. We had to stop to catch our breath a few times. But, we really liked seeing the shops and residences along the streets, and we also liked stopping at the Mirador de Plaza San Cristobal (viewpoint in front of the San Cristobal church).

As we walked up the hill, we caught our first glimpse of the fortress walls of Sacsayhuaman. The rocks were absolutely massive! As we got to explore the inside of the park, we just couldn’t fathom that people moved those heavy stones from quarries, shaped them to perfection, and then lifted them on top of each other. It was truly outstanding.

We enjoyed roaming around the complex and taking lots of pictures. In hindsight, it would have been nice to have had a guide to explain the significance of everything we saw. We’d recommend to others that you book a private tour so you can still roam at your own pace, but you’d have someone there to explain everything to you. (And it’s always nice to have someone to take photos of you too!)

Looking for a hotel in Cusco? We stayed at the Apu Huascaran Hostal and would recommend it to others! For a list of over one thousand accommodations in Cusco, click here .

Nearby Activities

Cristo blanco.

The Cristo Blanco statue (translated to “White Christ” statue) is located just a short walk away from Sacsayhuaman. The statue resembles Brazil’s Christ the Redeemer statue, but on a much smaller scale. The statue is 26 feet high and was a gift from Palestinians that sought refuge in Cusco after World War II. The statue is on Pukamoqo Hill, which was a site of spiritual importance to the Inca. It’s said that soil from all 4 quarters of the empire are located on the hill. (We wrote all about our hike to Cristo Blanco .)

Plaza de Armas

Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption of the Virgin in Cusco Peru

Plaza de Armas is located in the heart of Cusco. This plaza was built by the Spanish to replace the Inca’s Great Inca Square, which was twice the size of the current plaza. In the center of the square is a statue of Tupac Amaru II , who led an uprising against the Spanish and was later executed for his efforts. There are two churches in the square: Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption of the Virgin (known as the Cusco Cathedral) and the Church La Compañía de Jesús.

Hatun Rumiyoc Street

This narrow cobblestone street was one of the Inca’s original roads. The road is a pedestrian street and cars are not permitted on it. As you walk down the street, you’ll see large stones that were once part of the Palacio Inka Roca . The street is especially famous because it houses the 12-Angled Stone, which was a heavy stone that the Inca carved with 12 different angles to perfectly fit the wall.

Qoricancha Temple

Qoricancha, also spelled as Coricancha, is the Inca’s Temple of the Sun and was dedicated to Inti, the Sun God. It was constructed in about the year 1200 and was the most important religious site in Cusco. The name Qoricancha means “Walls of Gold.” The temple walls were lined with gold, and many gold statues and artifacts filled the temple.

San Pedro Market

The San Pedro Market is less than a 10-minute walk from the Plaza de Armas. At the market, you’ll likely see Peruvians dressed in traditional clothing. There are tons of vendors at the market, selling everything from produce to souvenirs. There’s lots of fresh-made juices at the market, so be sure to try several different flavors.

If you’re visiting Cusco, you’ll definitely want to make time to see the Inca ruins at Sacsayhuaman. We thought that the site was absolutely huge, and there’s so much to see. The ruins are very easy to access from Cusco. If you’re interested in seeing Inca ruins, then you have to add Sacsayhuaman to your itinerary.

Disclaimer: We always strive for content accuracy. Since the time of publishing, travel-related information regarding pricing, schedules, and hours may have changed. Please look up such information directly from each vendor or institution for the most current information.

Hi, I’m Kelly!

After studying abroad in Spain, I became passionate about international travel. Since then, I’ve traveled to 6 continents and 36 states within the United States. When I’m not travel blogging, you can find me hiking, reading books in Spanish, or playing cribbage. I hope my blog inspires you to see the world!

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Sacsayhuaman

Undoubtedly, Cusco is home to the most impressive archeological sites in Peru , where the Inca civilization stands out for their impressive engineering knowledge and Sacsayhuaman certainly is one of the perfect examples. The ceremonial fortress is as intriguing as astonishing, its huge stone walls make it look as a shelter for giants, driving our imagination to the craziest mythological stories. However, you’d be impressed to know that the Sacsayhuaman ruins were entirely built by the Incas, making it an unmissable attraction of the Cusco region. Likewise, the architecture, perfect carving, and engineering work will leave you breathless. According to famous historians, the archeological site had a great importance for the Inca culture. Nonetheless, its purpose is still unknown though many theories have come to the surface thanks to studies that now help us understand more about this ancient structure. Just like the mysterious Nazca lines , Cusco also has riddles yet to be solved, and Sacsayhuaman doesn’t stand too far from these enigmas. Even the craziest stories have captivated its visitors, and here we’ll uncover each one of them.

History of Sacsayhuaman

Sacsayhuaman was built between the XV and XVI centuries, Pachacutec started it and Huayna Capac finished it. Apparently, it took over 50 years and 20,000 men to complete this massive structure. Unfortunately, due to the Spanish conquest, the information of this Inca site is limited. However, thanks to historians and archeologists that dedicated their work to the understanding of these Inca remains, now we can assume a few things about the place. Sacsayhuaman was built as a ceremonial center, it consists of several temples dedicated to the cult of the water, the sun, the moon, and other deities of the Inca culture. However, this was not its only purpose since weapons and food storages were found within its structures, confirming that this site was also used as a military center. Some archeologists point out that the Inca Empire used these facilities to train warriors but this was never confirmed. Sacsayhuaman served as a great control center due to its strategic position and high elevation. It also played an important role during the colonization process by protecting the city of Cusco from the Spanish invaders. Nowadays, the Sacsayhuaman Archeological Site is the stage for the famous Inti Raymi celebration during the winter solstice. A ceremony that honors the Sun God since Inca times. The recognized festival gathers hundreds of local and foreign tourists looking to experience the ancient tradition left behind by this civilization.

Architecture

The structure of this archeological site has the distinctive style of Inca engineering, but clearly on a larger scale. Currently, only 40% of Sacsayhuaman remains untouched since when the Spaniards finally gained control over the so-called Imperial City, they dismantled the complex and took a great part of the rocks to build the Colonial Cusco. Although only the foundations of some structures and huge heavy rocks have remained, the magnificence of the site couldn’t be overshadowed. Sacsayhuaman is a great monument with rocks that weigh over 120 tons , each stone carefully carved and polished. All of them were dragged to the location from a nearby quarry by hundreds of men using ropes. The most impressive part of this Inca fortress is how they manage to perfectly fit the rocks one on top of the other without using any type of mortar. The largest stone reaches 5 meters of elevation and it’s 2,5 meters wide. Sacsayhuaman was suitably constructed to resemble the head of a cougar, an important figure of the Andean Cosmovision. Likewise, this represented the Inca ideology of wanting to conquer their lands from above. The structure was thoughtfully designed to merge itself with its surroundings, portraying the authentic landscaping knowledge of this ancient civilization. The archeological complex covers an extension of 3,000 ha. and it is divided into several sections: the remaining foundations of three important towers, the throne of the Inca, bastions, temples, and more.

Sacsayhuaman Theories

Since there’s no actual information about the site, except from the deductions made by the archeologists that studied this structure, different theories have emerged. Some of them are quite accurate, whilst others go to a more imaginative path.

1. Extraterrestrial Beings. This is definitely one of the theories that have captured everyone’s attention. Some people have theorized that the Incas were helped by aliens who gave them the tools to assemble this extraordinary megalithic structure. 2. Others say that the rocks were cut and moved but later fused due to the heat of an intense forest fire. Investigators have tried this with several tests but the results ruled out this probability. 3. Another theory points to the use of lenses and mirrors to fuse the stones together. But, it is known that the Incas didn’t possess this type of technology, which makes it very unlikely.

However, the most accurate theory says that the famous culture engineered a system called “Scribing” or “Template Making,” which consisted of measuring the spaces between the stones, creating a wooden template of the shape to achieve a perfect fit.

As much as we’d love to believe in life in outer space and the possible cosmic contact between the Incas and advanced extraterrestrial civilizations, this last theory seems to resolve a 600-year enigma, though it hasn’t been entirely confirmed.

How to Get There?

Sacsayhuaman is located only 2 kilometers away from Cusco at 3,700 meters above sea level . It is easily accessible by walk or car since it is near Plaza de Armas. However, if you wish to visit this historical monument, we highly recommend taking a guided tour. The famous Ceremonial Fortress comprehends many mysteries and details that you certainly can’t miss. For that reason, if you go on your own, you won’t be able to fully appreciate the history of the place. Luckily for you, we have a special Archeological City Tour , where you’ll get to visit all these attractions and more! Our guided tour starts with a short walk through the historic center, later we board a shuttle that will take us to the famous Sacsayhuaman Fortress, following Q’enqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay.

General Information:

- Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday from 07:00h to 18:00h. - Entrance: The Touristic Ticket is needed to enter the archeological site, it includes all the sights within the Cusco City Tour. (Already included in all our packages).

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Everything You Need to Know About Sacsayhuaman

There’s no doubt about it; the Incas constructed many incredible archaeological sites, the most famous of which is Machu Picchu. In and around the city of Cusco, there are many more, and one of the most spectacular is Sacsayhuaman.

This fascinating construction sits above Cusco at 3,700 masl. Building work began during the government of Inca Pachacutec in the 15 th century and they say that over 20 thousand men worked on it by taking the huge stones over 20km. Some structures weigh a huge 125 tons. Quite amazing, don’t you agree?

What Does Sacsayhuaman Mean?

The architecture, the history of the archaeological site sacsayhuamán, what role did sacsayhuaman play during the inca civilization, architecture of sacsayhuaman, stone blocks, assembly technique, zigzagging shape, terraces and platforms, subterranean foundations, use of courts and plazas, height and weight of stones, how to get there, what will you see there, what is the best time to visit sacsayhuaman, intricate engineering, inti raymi celebration, battle of the stones, altar of sacrifices, symbol of cusco.

In the Quechua language , it means ‘place where the hawk is satiated’. Many think that it was a fortress due to its location, but others believe it was used for ceremonies. It could well have been both.

Sacsayhuaman means place where the hawk is satiated

The structure includes sacred buildings like shrines and towers, as well as residences, warehouses, roads, and aqueducts. For this reason, you’ll see that the landscape and atmosphere resemble other sites from the era like Machu Picchu .

Inca Garcilaso de la Vega, one of the most famous Peruvian chroniclers, believed that Sacsayhuaman was the most impressive piece of architecture that the Incas built, and we tend to agree.

Sacsayhuaman has fascinating architecture

Sacsayhuamán was built in the 15th century by Pachacutec, the ninth Inca emperor, between 1438 and 1471 during the height of the Inca civilization. It is believed to have been a ceremonial fortress with religious functions. Due to the size and weight of the stones used, some of which weigh several tons, its construction is particularly notable.

This enclosure has impressive architecture, with no use of mortar; the stones could fit perfectly together. Likewise, stones forming walls with perfectly carved and fitted edges have been found, and some stones have irregular and angular shapes that fit only the nearby stones.

In 1536, during the Spanish conquest, a significant battle took place at Sacsayhuamán between Inca forces led by Manco Inca and Spanish forces led by Diego de Almagro. The Incas caused great damage to the Spanish forces but were ultimately defeated. Unfortunately, many Inca structures, including Sacsayhuamán, were destroyed, and the stones were used to build Spanish buildings in Cusco. However, much of Sacsayhuamán’s original structure is still in use.

Currently, Sacsayhuamán is still an important site for celebrating Inca festivals. Every year on June 24th, Inti Raymi, the Inca ceremony in gratitude to the Sun God Inti, is celebrated at Sacsayhuamán. Sacsayhuamán continues to captivate visitors and archaeology scholars as an impressive testament to the advanced engineering and architecture of the Incas

Sacsayhuaman served two roles during the Inca era. Firstly, it functioned as a defensive military fortress due to its strategic location, providing surveillance advantages against potential invasions and accommodating military troops. Additionally, it had a ceremonial and religious role, as historical accounts reveal its use in religious ceremonies, rituals, and celebrations related to the god Inti (Sun). Sacsayhuaman is a symbol of power and technical prowess that persists today.

The structure comprises sacred buildings such as shrines and towers, as well as residences, warehouses, roads, and aqueducts. For this reason, you will notice that the landscape and atmosphere resemble other sites of the time, such as Machu Picchu.

Inca Garcilaso de la Vega, one of the most famous Peruvian chroniclers, believed that Sacsayhuaman was the most impressive piece of architecture built by the Incas, and we tend to agree.

Architectural Features

One of the most astonishing aspects of Sacsayhuaman is the size and weight of the stones used in its construction. Some of these stones are colossal, weighing several tons. These massive stones were carved and transported from distant quarries to the construction site.

The assembly technique of the stones in Sacsayhuaman is impressive. Despite the irregular and uniquely shaped stones, they fit together perfectly without using mortar. The Incas achieved remarkable precision in carving and arranging the stones, creating solid and resistant walls.

The walls of Sacsayhuaman have a distinctive zigzagging shape, which some suggest resembles the head of a puma, a sacred animal in Inca mythology. This design served aesthetic purposes and had defensive functions by complicating the entry of potential invaders.

Sacsayhuaman includes terraces and platforms that serve as additional structures. These terraces not only provided spaces for ceremonies and rituals, but could also have had agricultural functions by allowing the cultivation of plants on the hillside.

Sacsayhuaman has extensive subterranean foundations discovered to help stabilize the structure. These foundations, along with careful engineering, contributed to the fortress’s strength and durability.

The design of Sacsayhuaman includes courts and plazas, some of which have ceremonial and social purposes. These open spaces were used for public events and important rituals.

The stones used in Sacsayhuaman vary in size and shape, from massive blocks to smaller stones. The diversity of sizes contributes to the complexity and beauty of the structure. Some vertical stones in Sacsayhuaman reach impressive heights, ranging from around 2 meters to over 9 meters. The weight of the stones used is also remarkable, ranging from several tons to over 100 tons, with some exceeding 200 tons.

As it’s so close to the city of Cusco, it can be nice to hike up there on a sunny day, which will take around 45 minutes. Alternatively, you can get a taxi that takes only 10 minutes. You’ll also find that it’s included in the City Tour if you wish to visit other sites on the same afternoon.

Keep in mind that you will need to purchase the Boleto Turistico (Tourist Ticket) either at one of the sites included or at specific points in the city

Sacsayhuaman is a important place when you take the city tour

From the area itself, you get a wonderful view over all of Cusco. You can see the peaks of towering mountains, including Ausangate , Pachatusan, and Cinca. These were actually sacred to the Incas.

The complex itself also includes a lot of interesting parts that you can spend the whole day exploring. Let’s take a look at a few.

The Towers – The walls are built in a zigzag formation, and the towers are placed along these. We know that in these areas there was plenty of water, and you can still see the aqueducts today.

The Walls – We’ve already noted that these were built in a zigzag. It’s incredible to see how perfectly the huge stones fit together. How they were put together is still a bit of a mystery nowadays because they weighed over 100 tons.

The Doors – You will see the classic Incan door structure at different points around the complex. The shape is always like a trapezium and each one has its own name.

The Incan Throne – K’usilluc Jink’ian, or the throne of the Inca is a seat or bench made from the stones. The symmetry of these structures is perfect.

Chincanas – These are underground tunnels or caves in Sacsayhuaman. There are two and many visitors find it fascinating to walk through the smaller one. Others have tried to get to the end of the longer one, without success.

The best time to visit the site is between March and October, which is the dry season here, so you don’t have to worry about rain. The gates are open from 7 am to 6 pm, and remember that you need the Tourist Ticket. You will be very impressed by the gigantic structures and architecture if you decide to visit during your trip.

It’s also important to mention that every June 24th, Inti Raymi or the Festival of the Sun is celebrated, which is a very important date of worship to the God Inti and is related to the winter solstice in the South American hemisphere.

The precision with which the massive stones in Sacsayhuaman are carved and fit together is so precise that not even a sheet of paper can be inserted between the stones. The complexity of this engineering is impressive and has baffled archaeologists for a long time.

The design of the zigzagging walls of Sacsayhuaman is believed to represent the head of a puma, a sacred animal in Inca mythology. The puma symbolizes strength and power, and this design choice could have had ceremonial and religious meanings.

Every June 24th, Sacsayhuaman is the main stage for the celebration of Inti Raymi, an ancient Inca festival dedicated to the Sun God (Inti). This celebration attracts visitors from around the world and recreates traditional Inca ceremonies.

During the Spanish conquest, Sacsayhuaman was the scene of a fierce battle between the Incas and the Spanish conquistadors in 1536. It is said that the stones used in the fortress were thrown against the Spanish forces, causing significant damage.

Some areas of Sacsayhuaman are believed to have been used as altars for religious ceremonies and possibly human sacrifices. However, evidence of human sacrifices at this location is disputed and still debated among scholars.

Extensive subterranean foundations have been discovered beneath the surface of Sacsayhuaman. These foundations are part of a more complex structure and demonstrate the careful planning of the Incas to ensure the stability of the fortress.

Sacsayhuaman is considered a symbol of the city of Cusco and is one of the most visited archaeological sites in Peru. Its imposing presence and historical significance attract tourists and scholars from around the world.

These fun facts highlight the cultural, architectural, and ceremonial richness of Sacsayhuaman, making this site a historical marvel that has endured through the centuries.

The best time to visit the site is between March and October. This is the dry season here, so you don’t need to worry about rain. The doors are open from 7 am to 6 pm and remember that you need the Tourist Ticket. You’ll be very impressed by the giant structures and architecture if you decide to visit during your trip.

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Sacsayhuamán Fortress Peru Guide: Tours, Hiking, Maps, Buildings, Facts and History

by Miguel Angel Gongora Meza | Feb 25, 2023 | 0 comments

Sacsayhuamán Fortress is a citadel on the northern edge of the city of Cusco, Peru. Sacsayhuamán Fortress is situated 2 kilometers north of the Main Square of the Cusco and is located at 3,700 meters in elevation. Sacsayhuamán is a Quencha word “Saqsay” and “Huaman”. “Saqsay” means Saciarse and “Huaman” means Halcon or “place where the hawk is satiated” because of the presence of hawks in the area. Sacsayhuamán Fortress was believed as a ceremonial center. In addition, Sacsayhuamán Fortress was built by the Inca from 1438 to 1471 CE, under the reign of Pachacuti and successors.

Sacsayhuamán Fortress was the largest structure built by the Incas. The construction of the Sacsayhuamán Fortress was designed by four architects, such as Huallpa Rimachi, Maricanchi, Acahuana, and Calla Cunchui. The first structure was originally made from mud and clay, and the rulers after Pachacuti replaced it using stonework.

These stoneworks are finely cut polygonal blocks and have a height of 4 meters, while the weight was 100 tons. Over 20,000 workers worked together to finish the massive project. Sacsayhuamán Fortress was built with the “mita” which was a form of community service to the empire and required for 2 years.

Community service starts when a male reached 18 years old. Incas are known as an expert in stonemasons. The stonework is made using the tools, such as harder stones and bronze tools, to shape the huge blocks. Furthermore, Sacsayhuamán Fortress served as the storage depot of Incas for their arms, armor, foodstuffs, textiles, ceramics, metal tools, and precious metals were kept. Francisco Pizzaro, a Spanish, killed Inca Atahualpa and captured Cusco.

The towers that once stood there are no longer visible, but their bases of them are remaining. The site was abandoned by the Incas before Pizarro and the Spanish conquistadors arrived. Sacsayhuamán Fortress was rediscovered in 1934 and excavated. Cusco and Sacsayhuamán were designated as sites on the UNESCO World Heritage in 1983.

To visit Sacsayhuamán Fortress, the visitor needs the Cusco Tourist Ticket. The ticket cost $18. It allows entry to other fifteen attractions in Cusco. There is no exclusive ticket to Sacsayhuamán Fortress. Sacsayhuamán Fortress is available every between 7 in the morning and 6 in the evening.

Moreover, Sacsayhuamán Fortress has a dry and temperate climate. The average temperature per year is 12 degrees Celsius. Sacsayhuamán Fortress has two seasons: rainy and dry. The rainy season is from November to March and the dry season is from April to October. In addition, Sacsayhuamán Fortress hugely contributes to the economy of Peru.

Cusco is an area of interest due to its archaeological sites and traditional villages. Furthermore, the towers in Sacsayhuamán Fortress are situated on the walls zigzag, such as Muyucmarca, Paucamarca, and Sallaqmarca. The economy of the Cusco region depends on agriculture, mining, natural gas extraction, and tourism. Sacsayhuamán Fortress is the location where Sun Festival or known as “Inti Raymi” performed. Inti Raymi is a festival during winter solstice every year on the 24th of June.

Tourism at Sacsayhuamán Fortress currently contributes more than $40 million annually to Peru’s economy. In addition, despite the current problem caused by COVID-19, the Peruvian Ministry of Culture reports that there were around 444,500 visitors to the location in the year 2021.

How is the Sacsayhuamán Fortress History?

Sacsayhuamán Fortress was built by the Inca from 1438 to 1471 CE under the reign of Pachacuti and successors. The construction has begun in the reign of the Inca Empire builder Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui and his son Thupa Inca Yupanqui in the mid-15th century CE. More than 20,000 workers from tribes worked and built zigzags and used them as a fortress.

The huge blocks were built by the skilled Incan stonemasons using harder stones and bronze tools. There are theories that Sacsayhuamán Fortress was built as a citadel and ceremonial center, but the truth is no one knows what was Sacsayhuamán Fortress before the Spanish attacked. The Spanish successfully attacked and took over the Sacsayhuamán Fortress. Sacsayhuamán Fortress was dismantled by the Spanish to destroy anything that was credited to the Inca Empire.

They destroyed the ruins and used them as a quarry, recycling many of the stones for use elsewhere in the colonial buildings of Cusco. The towers that once stood there are no longer visible, but their bases of them are remaining. The site was abandoned by the Incas before Pizarro and the Spanish conquistadors arrived. Sacsayhuamán Fortress was rediscovered in 1934 and excavated.

Furthermore, Sacsayhuamán Fortress served as an important checkpoint during the Inca. It was used as a prison for political prisoners. The zigzag walls of Sacsayhuamán Fortress were created to make it difficult for the enemies to scale the fortress wall.

Furthermore, there are 2 books written about Sacsayhuamán Fortress, such as The Sacsaywaman Mystery by Gabor Joseph Kish and Saqsaywaman Mystery Solved was written by Richard Lambchops Price. In addition, Cusco and Sacsayhuamán were designated as sites on the UNESCO World Heritage in 1983.

Moreover, the Sacsayhuamán Fortress is important for the history of Latin America because it served as the military base of the Inca Empire and has been compared in greatness with the Roman Colosseum. The structure of Sacsayhuamán Fortress is one of the impressive works of engineering that will remain in the history of Peru.

What are the theories about the origin of the Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

Listed below are the theories about the origin of the Sacsayhuamán Fortress.

Theory #1: Sacsayhuamán Fortress served as a ceremonial center
Theory #2: The design of Sacsayhuamán Fortress was the head of the puma. Cuzco was laid out to form a puma shape when seen above.
Theory #3: Sacsayhuamán Fortress was an exclusive neighborhood of the Inca’s elite.
Theory #4: Incas used complex crystals and lenses to take advantage of the sun’s rays to create enough heat to melt the stone.
Theory #5: The megaliths were transported on rollers made from tree trunks.

What are the myths about Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

Listed below are the myths about Sacsayhuamán Fortress.

Myth #1: Sacsayhuamán Fortress has an exclusive ticket.
Myth #2: Sacsayhuamán Fortress is open 24 hours.
Myth #3: It is always crowded in Sacsayhuamán Fortress.
Myth #4: A ticket is not required in Sacsayhuamán Fortress

How is Sacsayhuamán Fortress formed?

Incas built Sacsayhuamán Fortress from 1438 to 1471 CE under the reign of Pachacuti and successors. The construction has begun in the reign of the Inca Empire builder Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui and his son Thupa Inca Yupanqui in the mid-15th century CE.

The construction of the Sacsayhuamán Fortress was designed by four architects, such as Huallpa Rimachi, Maricanchi, Acahuana, and Calla Cunchui. Incas are known as an expert in stonemasons. Over 20,000 workers worked together to finish the massive project. Sacsayhuamán Fortress was built with the “mita” which was a form of community service to the empire and required for 2 years. Community service starts when a male reached 18 years old.

The huge blocks were built by the skilled Incan stonemasons using harder stones and bronze tools. Blocks were transported using ropes, tree trunks, poles, levers, and earthen ramps. The first structure was originally made from mud and clay, and the rulers after Pachacuti replaced it using stonework. These stoneworks are finely cut polygonal blocks and have a height of 4 meters, while the weight was 100 tons.

Laborers worked in a system rotation. 6,000 were given quarrying duties, while the other 4,000 dug trenches and laid the foundations. The walls of Sacsayhuamán Fortress were built in vertical sections. Incas made sure that the blocks were interlocked, and the walls were sloped to maximize their earthquake-damage resistance. There are theories that t he design of Sacsayhuamán Fortress was the head of the puma.

Cuzco was laid out to form a puma shape when seen above. In addition, the site was abandoned by the Incas before Pizarro and the Spanish conquistadors arrived. Sacsayhuamán Fortress was rediscovered in 1934 and excavated. Furthermore, Sacsayhuamán Fortress served as an important checkpoint during the Inca. It was used as a prison for political prisoners. The zigzag walls of Sacsayhuamán Fortress were created to make it difficult for the enemies to scale the fortress wall.

Is Sacsayhuamán Fortress Important for Peru History?

Sacsayhuamán Fortress is important for the history of Latin America because it served as the military base of the Inca Empire and has been compared in greatness with the Roman Colosseum. The structure of Sacsayhuamán Fortress is one of the impressive works of engineering that will remain in the history of Peru.

Sacsayhuamán Fortress believed that the Incas stored their weapons and armor to be used for invasion. The walls of Sacsayhuamán Fortress are built-in zigzag. These stoneworks are finely cut polygonal blocks and have a height of 4 meters, while the weight was 100 tons. Sacsayhuamán Fortress has different sectors, such as the main enclosure of Sacsayhuamán, Rodadero, Trono del Inca, Warmi K’ajchana, Baños del Inca, Chincana, Base de Torreones, and the doors among others.

Moreover, Sacsayhuamán Fortress is the location where Sun Festival or known as “Inti Raymi” is performed. Inti Raymi is a festival during the winter solstice every year on the 24th of June. Local people of Sacsayhuamán Fortress dress in their traditional gowns and dance to their typical music, representing their ancestors.

Is Sacsayhuamán Fortress safe?

Sacsayhuamán Fortress is safe to travel alone. The suggested time to visit Sacsayhuamán Fortress is during summer. There is no shelter in Sacsayhuamán Fortress if it rains. The wet season is from November to March and the summer is from April to October.

Where is Sacsayhuamán Fortress Located?

Sacsayhuamán Fortress is located 2 kilometers north of the Main Square of the Cusco Region in Peru and is located at 3,700 meters in elevation. Sacsayhuamán Fortress is a citadel on the northern edge of the city of Cusco, Peru. Sacsayhuamán Fortress has views of the different summits, including Ausangate, Pachutusan, and Cinca.

Sacsayhuamán Fortress stretches above an extent of 3,000 hectares, on a hill circled by mountains. Moreover, Sacsayhuamán Fortress has views of the panorama of different nature, including such as llamas, falcons, and kestrels.

What are the coordinates of Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

The geographical coordinates of Sacsayhuamán Fortress are 13°30′28″S 71°58′56″W. Sacsayhuamán Fortress is situated in Cusco Region, Peru.

What are the Tours for Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

There are various available tours in Sacsayhuamán Fortress that can be enjoyed with family, friends, or partners. Sacsayhuamán Fortress is safe to travel with or without a tour guide. The tours in Sacsayhuamán Fortress are available for the family and a great option if with children.

To visit Sacsayhuamán Fortress, the visitor needs the Cusco Tourist Ticket. The ticket cost $18. It allows entry to Qenqo, Pucapucara and Tambomachay. Another tourist ticket available in Sacsayhuamán Fortress is worth $40, and it allows entry to other fifteen attractions in Cusco.

There is no exclusive ticket to Sacsayhuamán Fortress. Other tour prices range from $30 to $60 for all-inclusive service. Sacsayhuamán Fortress is perfect for a day trip. It is available every between 7 in the morning and 6 in the evening. In addition, tourists have options of whether they will visit Sacsayhuamán Fortress by walking, taking a bus, taxi, or by their personal car. Walking takes 30 minutes to 50 minutes.

The fastest and simplest way to get to Sacsayhuamán Fortress is by taking a bus, taxi, or personal car. It takes 10 minutes from the Main Square of Cusco. Taxis are everywhere around Cusco. If by bus, there are two different buses, and it costs $0.40.

What is the best season for visiting Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

The best time to visit Sacsayhuamán Fortress is during the dry season because there is no cover in the fortress if it rains. The wet season is from November to March and the summer is from April to October. It is suggested to tour the Sacsayhuamán Fortress early in the morning or late in the afternoon. If the tourist wants to avoid the crowd, it is advisable to visit during midday.

In addition, many foreigner visits during the Inti Raymi Festival. Sacsayhuamán Fortress is the location where Sun Festival or known as “Inti Raymi” is performed. Inti Raymi is a festival during the winter solstice every year on the 24th of June. Local people of Sacsayhuamán Fortress dress in their traditional gowns and dance to their typical music, representing their ancestors.

What are the Hiking Routes for Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

There are three main ways to hike to the Sacsayhuamán Fortress: the Lares Trek, the Salkantay Trek, and the Inca Trail. The Lares trek is not among the most popular ways for tourists to get through the Sacsayhuamán Fortress, but it is thought to be one of the easiest ways to get there. It’s not as difficult as the Salkantay trek, but the natural beauty is stunning.

In fact, the trail doesn’t see many tourists. It’s a way to show respect for bodies of water, beautiful Andean fabrics, and social connections with the people of Peru. During the 4-day trip, tourists will trek a total of 37.5 km in 19 hours, but they will reach heights of 4,700 MASL/15,419 FASL, which is a very high point. On the other hand, tourists like the Salkantay trek better.

In 32 hours, tourists will trek a total of 76 km, which is 47.22 miles. This is a lot further than what they do on the Inca Trail. On this route, the highest point is at 4,638 MASL/15,216 FASL. The Salkantay Trek is also the most popular option for trekking in the Sacsayhuamán Fortress because it takes tourists from the huge snow-capped mountains of the Andes to the comforting tropical jungle.

On this route, tourists will have some of the best views of the sacred mountain of Salkantay. Besides that, tourists will get to see huge glaciers for themselves. Tourists will also see organic bridges; mountains with snow on top, brightly colored valleys, waterfalls, wildlife, rare plants, and foggy forests along the way.

Tourists will also find ancient and still-living Andean culture in remote villages that foreigners rarely visit. Whereas, the Inca trail is believed to be the best hiking route in all of South America by most tourists. During this trip, which goes through the Andes, people will be amazed by the Urubamba mountain range, which is over 5,000 MASL (16,400 FASL) high.

Tourists will be able to see 18 archaeological sites, such as walls, canals, stairs, plaza housing, farming terraces, bridges, and more. In 25 hours, tourists will walk about 46 km, or 28.58 miles; the highest point is at 4,215 MASL/13,828 FASL.

What are the Closest Destinations to Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

Listed below is the closest destination to Sacsayhuamán Fortress.

Pisac: Pisac is one of the most popular tourist sites in the area around Machu Picchu. Pisac is most well-known for its photogenic market. The area is a must-see because of its outstanding archaeological park, which is distinguished by its vast number of platforms and towers, as well as its colorful fair, which captivates with its magical ambiance.
Ollantaytambo: Ollantaytambo is located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The location is breathtaking because of the stone carvings and the platforms that are found there. It is thought that the Inca monarchy used this location as a safe haven at one point in time.
Pinkuylluna: Pinkuylluna may be viewed when visiting Ollantaytambo. From the peak of the mountain, which is directly in front of the archaeological site, one may have a view of the remnants that are located on the mountain. These structures, known as Pinkuylluna Qolqas, are thought to have been used as agricultural storage facilities in the past. It is situated on the slopes of the mountain because supplies were more successfully sown in this particular spot.
Arin Falls: Arin Falls is sometimes referred to as the Cataratas de la Sirena, which literally translates to “Mermaid Falls.” The Aria Falls are yet another attraction that tourists can experience without paying a fee. Visitors will have the opportunity to take in a breathtaking panorama of the Sacred Valley from this vantage point. It is a really pleasant and calm little tourist town, and the core of the town is filled with fruit trees and cottages that have retained their rustic appearance.
Thermal Baths in Aguas Calientes: The Thermal Baths in Aguas Calientes are the perfect place to recuperate and unwind after the arduous trek through the Machu Picchu citadel.
Moray y Maras: Moray ;y Maras is home to two of the most popular tourist destinations in the Sacred Valley: the Salineras de Maras and the Moray Archaeological Center. Moray y Maras is located in the Sacred Valley. The first is a vast region that is packed with natural salt wells that are older than a hundred million years and were created after the Andes Mountains were originally shaped. On the other side, Moray is home to circular terraces that were once used as agricultural research facilities during the reign of the Inca.

How to Get from Machu Picchu to Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

Listed below is the guide on how to get from Machu Picchu to Sacsayhuamán Fortress by riding a taxi, or bus and by walking.

Machu Picchu to Ollantaytambo: Ride a taxi from Machu Picchu to Ollantaytambo. The travel duration is around 3 hours and 19 minutes. The distance from Machu Picchu to Ollantaytambo is 148.6 kilometers. The fare of a taxi ranges between $85 to $110.
Ollantaytambo to Cusco: In Ollantaytambo, ride a bus going to Cusco. The travel duration is around 1 and a half hours. The bus fare is $5.
Cusco to Sacsayhuamán Fortress: From Cusco, it takes 34 minutes to walk to Sacsayhuamán Fortress. The distance from Cusco to Sacsayhuamán Fortress is 2.6 kilometers.

Listed below is the guide on how to get from Machu Picchu to Sacsayhuamán Fortress by riding the train, bus, and by walking.

Machu Picchu to Ollantaytambo: Ride a train from Machu Picchu to Ollantaytambo. The travel duration is around 1 hour and 48 minutes. The distance from Machu Picchu to Ollantaytambo is 148.6 kilometers. The train fare is $70.

The distance from Arequipa to Lares Trek is 517.1 kilometers. From the Arequipa Airport, take a flight going to Cusco. In Cusco, the tourist will get to see the narrow stone designed by the Incas. The tour will start from the local San Pedro Market. From the market, the tourist will head to the temple of the Inca Empire, the Qoricancha. From Qoricancha, go to the Sacsayhuamán Fortress.

What to know before going Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

Listed below are the things to know before going to the Sacsayhuamán Fortress.

Purchase Tickets in Advance: Buying tickets on the day of the visit is not recommended. It is recommended by most tours that travelers plan their journey at least six months in advance. In some cases, the Inca Trail climb that culminates in Sacsayhuamán Fortress fills up almost an entire year in advance, particularly during high season. It is in the best interest to make preparations as far in advance as possible.
Visit Sacsayhuamán Fortress in the Morning: If a visitor has acquired an access ticket for the morning time slot, it is extremely unlikely that they will ask the tourist to leave the site at noon.
There are no single bathrooms beyond the entrance: The tourists are permitted one departure and reentry during their visit, which they can use to go to the restroom or get quick snacks outside the ruins. However, if they purchased morning tickets and plan to remain longer than the given time, they must ensure that they are back inside the attraction before noon.
Bring The Passport and Have It Stamped: As a memento of their trip, visitors to Machu Picchu can have their passports stamped with a unique Machu Picchu design.
Traveling Without A Guide is Highly Discouraged: Visitors are strongly discouraged from entering the site without a guide, but if they do so anyway, and run into problems, they can hire a guide there and then.
Do Not Wear Shorts: Always protect the skin from mosquito bites in Sacsayhuamán Fortress by wearing long pants rather than shorts. The most effective method for avoiding these irritating red welts is to dress in long pants and sleeves whenever possible, even when the temperature is high.
Bring These Important Things: Be sure to carry some sunblock, insect repellent, and shampoo, at the very least. Since the temperature can range from very frigid in the mornings to very hot in the middle of the day and quite rainy at any moment, it is a good idea to wear shoes that are comfortable for walking, a raincoat, and multiple layers of clothes. In addition, carrying a backpack that is either small or regular in size is permitted. However, carrying a backpack that is excessively large is not permitted.
Tourists Can Still Bring Water Bottles: Refillable water bottles are permitted.

When is Sacsayhuamán Fortress Open?

The Sacsayhuamán Fortress will continue to be accessible to visitors on a daily basis from seven in the morning until six in the afternoon in the year 2022. During the tour of the Inca citadel in Peru, it is required that visitors wear masks.

However, it is not necessary to provide a vaccination card. In addition, the months of April through October, which are considered to be the dry season, are the ideal months in which to make a trip to the Sacsayhuamán Fortress. At this time of year, there is just a trace amount of precipitation, and the sky is typically clear.

Having said that, it is crucial to keep in mind that even during the dry season, there may be isolated instances of rain. When travelers travel to the Sacsayhuamán Fortress during the wet season, which runs from November to March, they should be prepared for an increase in the amount of precipitation and cloud cover. In addition, January and February are the best months for travelers to visit Sacsayhuamán Fortress if they want to see the site without a lot of other people.

During these months, travelers will be able to find great offers on hotels, the best train schedules, and amazing prices for everything. On the other hand, these are the months that mark the height of the rainy season; therefore, vacationers should always be ready to pack reliable rain gear in order to avoid being held up by inclement weather. In addition, June, July, and August are the months that are the busiest during the entire year. In order to visit the Sacsayhuamán

Fortress, tourists need to book their tours in advance so that they may get the best times and locations. During these months, visitors to Sacsayhuamán Fortress need to be aware that there will likely be a long line to board the bus and enter the site. It is recommended to go to the Sacsayhuamán Fortress in the early morning or in the late afternoon for the best experience.

Tourists will have a terrific time seeing the Sacsayhuamán Fortress with fewer early visitors if they arrive at the citadel around six in the morning. They will also be able to witness the breathtaking dawn at Sacsayhuamán Fortress. When tourists arrive at the attraction after nine in the morning, on the other hand, they will have a greater chance of experiencing pleasant weather and taking stunning photographs. Furthermore, visits in the late afternoon will provide a wonderful opportunity to appreciate the citadel in peace and quiet.

How is the Sacsayhuamán Fortress Itinerary?

Sacsayhuamán Fortress is one of the half-day trips in Cusco and must be included on the Peru travel itinerary. Sacsayhuamán Fortress has three terraces built by the Incas. The journey to Sacsayhuamán Fortress provides travelers with the opportunity to fully enjoy not only the scenic splendor of the location itself. However, there are other locations in the surrounding area that are worthy of a visit. In addition, a journey to Sacsayhuamán Fortress is the ideal way to spend a day of vacation.

How much does it cost to visit Sacsayhuaman?

To tour Sacsayhuamán Fortress, the traveler needs the Cusco Tourist Pass. The pass expense is $18. It permits admission to Qenqo, Pucapucara and Tambomachay. Another tourist pass available in Sacsayhuamán Fortress is worth $40, and it permits admission to other fifteen attractions in Cusco. There is no special pass to Sacsayhuamán Fortress. Other tour prices range from $30 to $60 for all included service.

What is the best vehicle for visiting Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

Transportation is one of the most important when traveling to Peru. In Sacsayhuamán Fortress, it is best to take a train, but there are other ways to go to Sacsayhuamán Fortress, including taking a bus, taxi, car, or by walking. There are numerous round-trip buses spread over Sacsayhuamán Fortress. The fastest way to get to Sacsayhuamán Fortress is by riding a taxi.

It takes around 4 hours and 20 minutes. The taxi fare from Machu Picchu to Sacsayhuamán Fortress ranges from $120 to $150. The second-fastest and cheapest way to get to Sacsayhuamán Fortress is by riding a train and bus from Machu Picchu to Sacsayhuamán Fortress. It takes 4 hours and 26 minutes and the cost is about $75. Moreover, after flying from Lima, travel to Cusco and walk going to Sacsayhuamán Fortress.

How many hours should a person spend in Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

Tourists are able to tour the Sacsayhuamán Fortress for a few hours. Sacsayhuamán Fortress is open from 7 in the morning until 6 in the evening. Sacsayhuamán Fortress operates from Monday to Sunday. Sacsayhuamán Fortress is one of the day trips in Cusco. After touring the Sacsayhuamán Fortress and other attractions, there are hotels available in Cusco to rest.

Is it possible to stay at Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

It is impossible to stay overnight in Sacsayhuamán Fortress. Sacsayhuamán Fortress is open from 7 in the morning until 6 in the evening. There are hotels available around Sacsayhuamán Fortress.

Which Civilization used Sacsayhuamán Fortress for what?

Inca’s civilization creates the greatest empire in the entire America. They are popular for building agricultural techniques, including art and architectural works, such as the combination of geometrical stonework with instinctive landscapes. Inca’s civilization was advanced, but they were not familiar with using wheels. Blocks were transported using ropes, tree trunks, poles, levers, and earthen ramps.

The huge blocks of Sacsayhuamán Fortress were built by the skilled Incan stonemasons using harder stones and bronze tools. The walls of Sacsayhuamán Fortress were built in vertical sections. Incas made sure that the blocks were interlocked, and the walls were sloped to maximize their earthquake-damage resistance. In addition, Sacsayhuamán Fortress served as the storage depot of Incas for their arms, armor, foodstuffs, textiles, ceramics, metal tools, and precious metals were kept.

How is the Geography of Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

Sacsayhuamán Fortress is situated 2 kilometers north of the Main Square of the Cusco Region in Peru and is located at 3,700 meters in elevation. Sacsayhuamán Fortress is a fort on the northern edge of the city of Cusco, Peru. Cusco is the significant capital of the Inca Empire. Sacsayhuamán Fortress stretches above an extent of 3,000 hectares, on a hill circled by mountains. Sacsayhuamán Fortress has views of the diverse peaks, including Ausangate, Pachutusan, and Cinca.

Moreover, Sacsayhuamán Fortress has views of panaroma with different natures, including such as llamas, falcons, and kestrels. In addition, the overall setting of Sacsayhuamán Fortress is dry and temperate. The average temperature every year is 12 degrees Celcius. The best time to visit Sacsayhuamán Fortress is during the dry season because there is no cover in the fortress if it rains. The wet season is from November to March and the summer is from April to October.

What is the Geological Profile of Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

Sacsayhuamán Fortress is positioned on a steep hill, 2 kilometers north of the main square of the city of Cusco. The fort in Sacsayhuamán Fortress are sited on the barrier of zigzag, such as Muyucmarca, Paucamarca, and Sallaqmarca. The primary construction was originally made from mud and clay, and the leaders after Pachacuti substituted it using masonry. The foundations were made with limestones from Yucay.

These gray masonries are finely cut multilayered bricks and have a height of 4 meters, while the weight was 100 tons. The walls of Sacsayhuamán Fortress were built in upright sections. Incas made sure that the blocks were interlocked, and the walls were sloped to maximize their earthquake-damage resistance.

What are the findings in Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

There are various stone works around Cusco. The ruins of Sacsayhuamán Fortress are one of the relics found. Sacsayhuamán Fortress served as the storage depot of Incas for their arms, armor, foodstuffs, textiles, ceramics, metal tools, and precious metals were kept. Francisco Pizzaro, a Spanish, killed Inca Atahualpa and captured Cusco.

The Spanish successfully attacked and took over the Sacsayhuamán Fortress. Sacsayhuamán Fortress was dismantled by the Spanish to destroy anything that was credited to the Inca Empire. They destroyed the ruins and used them as a quarry, recycling many of the stones for use elsewhere in the colonial buildings of Cusco. The towers that once stood there are no longer visible, but their bases of them are remaining. In addition, any ancient and historical places can be discovered in the adventure in Sacsayhuamán Fortress.

The historical greatness of Cusco like the Inca walls that form the foundations of modern structures and the steep, cobblestone streets remained unchanged for centuries. One of the ancient structures near Sacsayhuamán Fortress is the Cusco cathedral. Cusco Cathedral is located overlooking the Plaza de Armas (Main Square) of Cusco. It was built from 1560-1654. Attached to the Cusco Cathedral is the smaller Triumph Church, which was known as the First Christian church in Cusco. The walls of the cathedral, emphasize some artifacts, relics, and architecture, which are examples of colonial art in the city.

What is the nearest city to Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

Sacsayhuamán Fortress is situated about 2 kilometers away from the ancient center of Cusco City. Ancient Cities in Sacsayhuamán Fortress and traditional towns still exist. There are 4 main towns, one of which is Pisac Town. Pisac town is a district of Calca province in Cusco. Pisac is considered the entrance to Sacsayhuamán Fortress.

Ollantaytambo town is located in the Sacred Valley, near Sacsayhuamán Fortress, and includes the fortress and summits of mountains. It is a big town, believed to be the last town the Incas populated. Chinchero town is the most traditional town of Sacred Valley, which was tried to civilize by the Spaniards, but couldn’t do so. Lastly, Maras town, located in the snow-topped mountains of the Sacred Valley, is a small town Maras was once a Cusco citizen, then left and started a community in Maras.

What are the books about Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

Listed below are the books written about Sacsayhuamán Fortress.

The Sacsaywaman Mystery: The Sacsaywaman Mystery was written by Gabor Joseph Kish. The book presented the annotated photos with detailed archival, visual, and geochemical evidence about Sacsayhuamán Fortress.
Saqsaywaman Mystery Solved: Saqsaywaman Mystery Solved was written by Richard Lambchops Price. It has photographic documentary on how the Sacsayhuamán Fortress was made.

Who are the scientists who worked on Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

In 1911, American scientist and public servant, Hiram Bingham started the archaeological exploration and investigation at Machu Picchu, an ancient Inca citadel situated in an isolated region of the Andes Mountains in Peru. Bingham and the work that he did were the primary driving factors behind the archaeological exploration of sites in the Andes as well as other regions of South America.

What does Sacsayhuamán Fortress Mean?

Sacsayhuamán is a Quencha word “Saqsay” and “Huaman”. “Saqsay” means Saciarse and “Huaman” means Halcon or “place where the hawk is satiated” because of the presence of hawks in the area. Sacsayhuamán Fortress was believed as a ceremonial center. In addition, Sacsayhuamán Fortress was built by the Inca from 1438 to 1471 CE, under the reign of Pachacuti and successors. Sacsayhuamán Fortress was the largest structure built by the Incas.

Which district is Sacsayhuamán Fortress in?

Sacsayhuamán Fortress is a citadel in the city of Cusco, Peru. Sacsayhuamán Fortress is positioned 1.243 miles north of the Main Square of the Cusco and positioned at 3,700 meters in elevation. Cusco is a district within the Cusco Region of Peru. It is bounded by the areas of Ccorca, Poro, Anta, the Calca, and Urubamba, San Jerónimo District, Santiago and San Sebastián.

Is Nazca River close to the Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

No, Nazca River is not close to Sacsayhuamán Fortress. Nazca River is located in Nazca City. Nazca City is on the southern coast of Peru. The distance from Nazca to Sacsayhuamán Fortress is 653 kilometers, and it takes 13 hours to travel by car. Furthermore, there are top attractions to visit in Nazca, including Nazca Lines, Cahuachi, Cantalloc Aqueduct, Cementerio Chauchilla, and Plaza de Armas.

Does Nazca River affect the History of Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

No, Nazca River doesn’t affect the history of Sacsayhuamán Fortress. Nazca is not close to Sacsayhuamán Fortress. Nazca River is located in Nazca City. Nazca City is on the southern coast of Peru. The distance from Nazca to Sacsayhuamán Fortress is 653 kilometers, and it takes 13 hours to travel by car.

How did Sacsayhuamán Fortress Lived in the Past?

The daily life of the people who lived in Sacsayhuamán Fortress was described by strenuous family agricultural work, also often imposed state or service in the military for men. There are infrequent lighter instances of celebrations to commemorate important events in society and serve to highlight the crop production calendar. In addition, Sacsayhuamán Fortress was built with the “mita” which was a form of community service to the empire and required for 2 years. Community service starts when a male reached 18 years old. Incas are known as an expert in stonemasons. There are more than 20,000 laborers.

How was Agriculture in Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

One of the essential elements of the Incan life is agriculture because they put great effort into the management of food supplies. Incas are known as the best agriculturists. Experts believe that the terraces found are all made by the Incas where they can grow different crops. Rivers can be found in Sacsayhuamán Fortress, which helps to cultivate crops. The Incas were able to cultivate hardy strains of food crops like potatoes, quinoa, and corn due to the creation of terraced agricultural systems. They constructed water storage cisterns as well as irrigation canals that glided and slanted their way down and across the mountains.

How was Mining in Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

The Incas had a significant wealth of gold and silver. The gold and silver used by the Inca came exclusively from surface sources, either in the form of gemstones or as a result of panning river beds. There were no mines among their possessions and no mining during that time. On the other hand, when they were mining stones to utilize in the construction of Sacsayhuamán Fortress, they employed tools made of bronze to cut the stones and tougher stones that came from a quarry nearby.

How was the economy of Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

The Inca had a bountiful economy during its peak. Their primary resource was agriculture, which allowed them to trade with other places. It also has plenty of lands, workers, mines, and fresh water everywhere. They were able to maintain a thriving economy by carefully utilizing those resources. The beauty of Sacsayhuamán Fortress generates many travel and companies that give as huge economic returns through the use of natural and cultural attractions located at Sacsayhuamán Fortress.

How was Daily Life in Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

The lives of the people in Sacsayhuamán Fortress depend on the type of work they are doing. Most of them are reliant on agricultural work. The remote road through the valley between two mountain ridges was originally used to deliver agricultural products to the people of Machu Picchu. They have a coffee plantation, and subtropical fruits and crops.

What was the Religious Beliefs in Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

The Inca religion permeated nearly every facet of daily life. Sacred buildings, also known as temples, which were dedicated to their deities, served as one of the numerous focal points for their religious activities. The Inca believed that the spirits of their creator lived in the elements of nature, such as the wind, rivers, trees, the sun, the moon, rock, mountains, and the earth.

As a result of this belief, the Inca constructed religious sites and other ritual areas to honor such spirits, including numerous structures at Sacsayhuamán Fortress. In addition, throughout the year, they participated in several religious celebrations that featured performances of music and dance, as well as the consumption of food and the offering of human sacrifices. The Incas practiced mummification of their deceased because they thought that their ancestors retained the ability to watch over their descendants even after death.

How is the Past of Sacsayhuamán Fortress presented to the visitors?

Sacsayhuamán Fortress is one of the breathtaking day tours in Cusco because of the sceneries. Sacsayhuamán Fortress gives different insights into the life of Incas in the past. The archeological site shows the unique engineering and architectural excellence of the Incas. Sacsayhuamán Fortress has warehouses, aqueducts, road towers, and shrines that show the different architectural designs and styles.

The towers in Sacsayhuamán Fortress are situated on the walls of zigzag, such as Muyucmarca, Paucamarca, and Sallaqmarca. In addition, Sacsayhuamán Fortress has views of diverse peaks, including Ausangate, Pachutusan, and Cinca. Moreover, Sacsayhuamán Fortress has views of panorama with different nature, including such as llamas, falcons, and kestrels.

How is the Preservation of Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

Cusco Regional Directorship gathered professionals, including archeologists, anthropologists, and geologists, together with social institutions. They gathered to plan the measures for protecting the Sacsayhuamán Fortress because the Ministry of Culture declared the ruins were in a state of emergency due to soil instability. In addition, the Peruvian Government approves the law designed to lessen the usage of plastics to protect the areas and government facilities.

Plastics are one of the harmful materials which can stay for the year. Plastic bags can stay for up to 150 years and plastic bottles for more than 1000 years. The governments forbid the use of plastic bags, straws, and styrofoam in areas that are part of the cultural and natural heritage of the world, and museums run by the government.

Is there a modern town of Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

Yes, there is a modern town in Sacsayhuamán Fortress. Cusco is known for being the primary city of Peru, but what travelers did not know is that the city of Cusco was earlier the capital of the Inca Empire. The city has a colonial architecture that has been preserved to maintain its beauty and wonder by the locals and governments.

How is the Map of Sacsayhuamán Fortress Layout?

How was Transportation to the Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

Transportation is one of the significant when traveling to Peru. In Sacsayhuamán Fortress, tourists are able to visit the archeological site by riding the train, bus, taxi, or private car. There are round-trip buses in Cusco and around Sacsayhuamán Fortress. Sacsayhuamán Fortress is near Plaza de Armas of Cusco. It takes 45 minutes by walking or 10 minutes by riding a car from Plaza de Armas to Sacsayhuamán Fortress.

Along the travel to Sacsayhuamán Fortress, tourists are able to pass by the old Inca road. Inca road system was the broadest and most developed transportation system in pre-Columbian South America. It was 40,000 kilometers. Inca road systems were sturdy and durable with many bridges, causeways, and stairways. Inca road served and provided an easy, reliable, and fast route for the Empire’s civilian and military communications, personnel movement, and logistical support in the past.

Does Sacsayhuamán Fortress have a No-fly Zone?

Sacsayhuamán Fortress has a no-fly zone after Peru’s government banned it. The government decides to protect and preserve the wildlife within the trail. The government decided to have a no-fly zone on the Lares Trek ever since their environmentalists announced that there are plenty of wildlife animals and plants that are affected by low-flying helicopter tours. Helicopters are not allowed to fly within a radius of the protected zone of archaeological sites. The government of Peru banned helicopter tours in 2018.

What are the prominent historical landmarks in Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

Listed below are the prominent historical landmarks in Sacsayhuamán Fortress.

The Doors: The Doors are trapezoidal and served as the main entrance and access to the two tunnels or underground caves. The three doors are named T’iopunku, Ajawanapunku, and Wiracochapunku.
The Temple: The Temple or “Qoricancha” Temple is important in Sacsayhuamán Fortress because it was the location for ceremonies, rituals, and sacrifices.
The Towers: The three Towers in Sacsayhuamán Fortress were named Muyucmarca, Paucamarca, and Sallaqmarca.
Paucamarca: Paucamarca is one of the towers in Sacsayhuamán Fortress. Paucamarca is situated in the east Sacsayhuamán Fortress.
Muyucmarca: Muyumarca or “La torre de Cahuide’ in one of the towers in Sacsayhuamán Fortress.
Sallaqmarca: Sallaqmarca is one of the towers in Sacsayhuamán Fortress and sited in the center. It is linked with the other towers by tunnels.
The Sacsayhuaman Walls or Group of Enclosures: The Sacsayhuaman Walls or Group of Enclosures is situated at the top of the hills and has a view of the city and squares.
The Throne of the Inca (K’usilluc Jink’ian): The Throne of the Inca (K’usilluc Jink’ian) is the stone structure in Sacsayhuamán Fortress, formed as a bench.
Chincanas or Tunnels: Chincanas or Tunnels are underground caves of Sacsayhuamán Fortress. There are two tunnels: short and long tunnels.
Slide or Suchuna: Slide or Suchuna known as Rodadero is a large rock formation in Sacsayhuamán Fortress.

1. The Doors

The Doors are situated in the center of Sacsayhuamán Fortress. The Doors are trapezoidal and served as the main entrance and access to the two tunnels or underground caves. The three doors are named T’iopunku, Ajawanapunku, and Wiracochapunku.

2. The Temple

The Temple or “Qoricancha” Temple is one of the significant places in Sacsayhuamán Fortress because it was the location for ceremonies, rituals, and sacrifices. “Qoricancha” means Walls of Gold because the walls of the temple were lined with gold and gold statues and artifacts were found inside. Tourists and people in Sacsayhuamán Fortress are often gathered here to witness the rituals of the empire. It is known as the Temple of the Sun and is devoted to Inti, the God of the Sun.

3. The Towers

The Towers are positioned on the top of the walls. These towers are called Muyucmarca, Paucamarca, and Sallaqmarca. There was a good deal of water in the towers because of the aqueducts. Aqueducts are still existing in the area.

4. Paucamarca

Paucamarca is one of the towers in Sacsayhuamán Fortress. Paucamarca is situated in the east Sacsayhuamán Fortress. The remains of Paucamarca are square and covered in dirt.

5. Muyucmarca

Muyumarca or “La torre de Cahuide’ in one of the towers in Sacsayhuamán Fortress. The remains of Muyumarca are only the base, but it has historic value. The tower is known, as where the Inca general Titu Cusi Huallpa jumped to escape from the Spanish during the Incan resistance of 1536.

6. Sallaqmarca

Sallaqmarca is one of the towers in Sacsayhuamán Fortress and sited in the center. It is linked with the other towers by tunnels. The remains of Sallaqmarca are only the foundations because it was dismantled by the Spaniards during the invasion.

7. The Sacsayhuaman Walls or Group of Enclosures

The Sacsayhuaman Walls or Group of Enclosures is situated at the top of the hills and has a view of the city and squares. The Group of Enclosures is known as the “religious sector”. The rooms are long and narrow. The Sacsayhuaman Walls or Group of Enclosures show the architectural style of the Incas.

8. The Throne of the Inca (K’usilluc Jink’ian)

The Throne of the Inca (K’usilluc Jink’ian) is the stone structure in Sacsayhuamán Fortress, formed as a bench. They are symmetrically perfect and called the “Throne” or “where the monkey stands”. The Throne of the Inca is believed that the Inca conducted ceremonies here.

9. Chincanas or Tunnels

Chincanas or Tunnels are underground caves of Sacsayhuamán Fortress. There are two tunnels. The shorter tunnel is accessible and famous for tourists, while the longer one is under a large limestone rock and not easily accessible. Chincanas are the result of rock erosion from underwater in the caves.

10. Slide or Suchuna

Slide or Suchuna known as Rodadero is a sparkling diorite rock slide. It is a large rock formation in Sacsayhuamán Fortress. Suchuna is the place that was believed as the playground of the children of the Inca. Suchunaor Rodadero was reported by the archaeologists in the 19th century that the Incas coursed in a series of smooth rock channels that run down on resection of the hill during festivals.

Is Sacsayhuamán Fortress in UNESCO World Heritage Sites?

Yes, Sacsayhuamán Fortress is in UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sacsayhuamán Fortress was rediscovered in 1934 and excavated. Sacsayhuamán Fortress and the city of Cusco are in the list of UNESCO World Heritage in 1983. Sacsayhuamán Fortress shows the excellent textural and historic style and the natural culture of the Incas in the past.

What is the contribution of Sacsayhuamán Fortress to the Tourism in Peru?

Sacsayhuamán Fortress is the location where Sun Festival or known as “Inti Raymi” is performed. Inti Raymi is a festival during the winter solstice every year on the 24th of June. The beauty of Sacsayhuamán Fortress generates many travel and companies that give as huge economic returns through the use of natural and cultural attractions located at Sacsayhuamán Fortress.

Who was the Architecture of the City of Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

The creation of Sacsayhuamán Fortress was designed by four architects, such as Huallpa Rimachi, Maricanchi, Acahuana, and Calla Cunchui. Over 20,000 workers worked together to finish the massive project. Sacsayhuamán Fortress was constructed with the “mita” which was a form of civil service to the nation and required for 2 years. Civil service starts when a male turned 18 years old.

Which materials are used for the Construction of Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

The materials used for the creation of Sacsayhuamán Fortress are stronger stones and bronze tools, to form the huge bricks. Bricks were transported through ropes, tree trunks, poles, leverage, and earthen ramps. The primary framework was originally formed from mud and clay, and the leaders after Pachacuti replaced it using stonework.

These stoneworks are finely cut multilayered bricks and have a height of 4 meters, while the weight was 100 tons. Incas are labeled as an expert in masonry. The walls of Sacsayhuamán Fortress were built in vertical sections. Incas made sure that the blocks were interlocked, and the walls were sloped to increase their earthquake-damage resistivity.

Is Sacsayhuamán Fortress under danger?

Yes, Sacsayhuamán Fortress was in danger. In 2012, Cusco Regional Directorship gathered professionals, including archeologists, anthropologists, and geologists, together with social institutions. They gathered to plan the measures for protecting the Sacsayhuamán Fortress because the Ministry of Culture declared the ruins were in a state of emergency due to soil instability.

Is Sacsayhuamán Fortress floated in the past?

No, Sacsayhuamán Fortress has not floated in the past. However, the people who live there, like the Incas, remark that it makes them sense as though they are floating.

How many Artifacts do exist in Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

There are artifacts uncovered during the years 1912 to 1915. It includes some ceramic vessels, gold jewelry, and silver statues. 46,000 artifacts have been recovered, including a mummy or human remains that are now being displayed at Yale’s Peabody Museum. In addition, there are potteries found in Sacsayhuamán Fortress that indicates the occupation of the Incas in 900 CE.

How does University of Yale return the artifacts of Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

Peru and Yale have fought over the relics for years. Yale archaeologist Hiram Bingham III established a camp in Ollantaytambo in 1911. From there, he went to Machu Picchu. Bingham’s National Geographic articles popularized the place. With Peruvian government permission, he excavated hundreds of artifacts; jewelry, tools, human bones, and ceramics.

When Bingham returned in 1912, Peru allowed Yale to study the artifacts. Yale’s scientific commitment was recognized, but the artifacts might be handed back to Peru at anytime Peru asked. Some relics were returned, but most stayed at Yale’s Peabody Museum. The university transported the relics to New Haven for study. Yale claimed possession of the collection and asserted that finders of artifacts were permitted to keep them, notwithstanding Bingham’s written acknowledgment of an obligation to give back the artifacts. In 2008, Peru sued in U.S. federal court over escalating demands. November saw Peru’s robust media blitz.

Peruvian President Alan Garcia led thousands of demonstrators through Lima’s streets. Garcia requested Obama to intervene, and the Peruvians requested the pope to intervene. Yale’s president sent a delegate to Lima to open up negotiations with the Garcia administration. Yale anthropologist professor Richard Burger was on the negotiation team. Two sides inked an MOU within days. Yale had originally insisted on keeping the artificers for the next 99 years. Now, the artifacts will go to an institution in Cuzco, the Inca capital. Then, Peru will create a museum and research institute to house its collections.

Some Sample Artifacts from Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

Listed below are some examples of artifacts from Sacsayhuamán Fortress.

El Aribalo: El Aribalo is a ceramic jar used for transporting, preserving, and serving beer that is brewed from corn. The aribalo pottery was put to use not only in day-to-day life but also in the service of the dead as grave goods.
El Quero: El Quero was a type of glass that originated in the Inca culture. It was used to consume liquids such as the customary chicha de jora drink. El Quero was a piece of earthenware. Both the people of the Tiahuanaco civilization and the Incas employed the El Quero as a ceremonial container during important religious events. These celebrations took place at sacred sites.
Bismuth (Ceremonial Knife): The ceremonial knife made of bismuth was the earliest Inca artifact discovered in Machu Picchu.
White Kaolin Plate: The White Kaolin Plate was discovered at an old burial site that contained the remains of three adult women.
Inca Textiles: Inca textiles were created out of cotton, particularly along the coast and in the eastern lowlands, or wool from llamas, alpacas, and vicunas, which was more popular in the highlands. Cotton was more frequent on the coast and in the eastern lowlands. Only the Inca ruler was permitted to keep vicuna herds, and goods that were created with the wool of the super-soft vicuna were limited.

What are the movies about Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

There are no movies regarding Sacsayhuamán Fortress. Transformers: Rise of the Beasts filmed a few parts in Sacsayhuamán Fortress. There are plots for a scene wherein a huge stone turns into a golden robot. The showing of the movie is on June 2023.

Who are the famous people visited Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

Listed below are some famous people who visited Sacsayhuamán Fortress.

Anthony Ramos (2021): Anthony Ramos is an American actor, singer, and songwriter. Anthony Ramos is one of the casts in the movie: Transformers: Rise of the Beasts. The release date of the movie is on June 9, 2023.
Leonardo DiCaprio (2003) : Leonardo DiCaprio is an American actor and film producer. Known for his work as a leading man in biopics and period films. He is the recipient of numerous accolades, including an Academy Award, a British Academy Film Award, and three Golden Globe Awards.
Cameron Diaz (2007): Cameron Michelle Diaz is an American actress. The recipient of multiple accolades, including nominations for four Golden Globe Awards and a BAFTA Award. Cameron Diaz was named the highest-paid Hollywood actress over 40 in 2013.
Richard Gere (2010): Richard Tiffany Gere is one of the most popular American actors and producers. Besides being an actor, he is also an activist.
Jim Carrey (2011): James Eugene Carrey is a Canadian-American actor and comedian. Known for his energetic slapstick performances. Jim Carrey first gained recognition in 1990, after landing a recurring role in the American sketch comedy television series In Living Color.
Matthew McConaughey (2012): Matthew David McConaughey is an American actor. He had his breakout role with a supporting performance in the coming-of-age comedy Dazed and Confused. After several supporting roles, his first success as a leading man came in the legal drama; A Time to Kill.
Bill Gates: William Henry Gates III is an American business magnate, software developer, investor, author, and philanthropist. He is a co-founder of Microsoft, along with his late childhood friend Paul Allen.

What are the Top Hotels Close to Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

Listed below is the top selection list of the Top Hotels Close to Sacsayhuamán Fortress.

Antigua Casona San Blas: Antigua Casona San Blas is located in Caklle Carmen Bajo, San Blas, Cusco. The hotel is 0.6 miles away from Sacsayhuamán Fortress. It will take 29 minutes to walk to acsayhuamán Fortress. Antigua Casona San Blas is one of the Best Hotels Near Sacsayhuamán Fortress because of its cleanliness. They have received 4.9 ratings out of 5-stars. Antigua Casona San Blas has free Wi-Fi, free breakfast, a spa, a restaurant, business services, and a bar. The cost per night in Antigua Casona San Blas is $185.
Atoq San Blas Hotel: Atoq San Blas Hotel is located in Calle Atoqsaycuhi, Sanm Blas, Cusco. The hotel is 0.6 miles from Sacsayhuamán Fortress. They have received 4.8 stars out of 5-stars. Atoq San Blas Hotel has free Wi-Fi, business services, a 24/7 front desk, free breakfast, and housekeeping. The cost per night in Atoq San Blas Hotel is $80.
Tocuyeros Boutique Hotel: Tocuyeros Boutique Hotel is located in Pasaje Tocuyeros, San Blas, Cusco. The hotel is 0.6 miles away from Sacsayhuamán Fortress. Tocuyeros Boutique Hotel has free Wi-Fi, free breakfast, airport transportation, a bar, baggage storage, laundry service, and a concierge. They have received 4.8 stars out of 5-stars. The cost per night in Tocuyeros Boutique Hotel is $145.

What are the Best Restaurants Close to Sacsayhuamán Fortress?

Listed below is the top selection list of the Best Restaurants Close to Sacsayhuamán Fortress.

Kusykay: Kusykay is located in Calle Waynapata, Cusco. Kusykay is 0.3 miles away from Sacsayhuamán Fortress. They have Peruvian, Latin, and Healthy cuisines. Kusykay has meals for lunch and dinner. They have free Wi-Fi, reservations, alcohol, and a full bar. It is the Best Restaurants Near Sacsayhuamán Fortress because it has received 5 stars and good feedback from previous customers. According to the reviews, the food, service, and value in Kusykay are excellent. Kusykay is the top one among the 970 restaurants in Cusco.
Organika: Organika is located in Calle Ataud, Cusco. Organika is 0.4 miles away from Sacsayhuamán Fortress. They have Fusion, Peruvian, Latin, Contemporary, and Medicinal cuisines. Organika has meals for lunch, dinner, late night, and brunch. They are dog-friendly, and they have alcohol, wine, and beer, free Wi-Fi, and reservations. They have received 5-stars and are in the top 6 out of 970 Restaurants in Cusco.

Rucula: Rucula is located in Calle Ataud, Cusco. Russula is 0.4 miles away from Sacsayhuamán Fortress. They have Fusion, Peruvian, Latin, and Healthy cuisines. Rucula has meals for lunch, dinner, late night, and brunch. They are dog-friendly, and they have alcohol, a full bar, free Wi-Fi, and reservations. They have received 5-stars and the top 8 out of 864 Restaurants in Cusco.

Sacsayhuamán Fortress Peru Guide: Tours, Hiking, Maps, Buildings, Facts and History

Miguel is a professional tour guide from Cusco, Peru, with almost 20 years of experience leading tours and a deep knowledge of Peru’s cultural and ecological diversity. He is also an advocate of ecotourism and cultural sensitivity and has lectured on these topics in the US and Europe. He co-founded Evolution Treks Peru, a worker-owned travel company based in Cusco.

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Apus Peru: On the Trail

Sacsayhuaman & Cusco Ruins Tour

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Simply enter your details in the enquiry form to start personalising your experience or if you have any questions about booking this tour.

About the Sacsayhuaman & Cusco Ruins Tour

This tour is the perfect introduction to Cusco. We pack in all the significant Inca and colonial sights of the historic center, plus the four amazing Cusco ruins just outside town including Tambomachay and Sacsayhuaman.

Read more about these fascinating Inca ruins and their history!

See Full Description

Although a traditional and therefore highly visited Cusco tour, it is an excellent orientation to the city and its surrounds. The towering rocks at Sacsayhuaman and Tambomachay, and the incredible views over the city, are sure to leave you breathless! This great one-day excursion can be done on foot, on horseback or by car. Ask us at booking!

WHY BOOK WITH US?

High quality personalized experience

Unique, off-the-beaten track routes

Experienced staff

Verified sustainability practices

$20 of every trek donated to Threads of Peru

Travel that Gives Back

Important Details About the Sacsayhuaman & Cusco Ruins Tour

What is included.

Collection from your hotel on the morning of your Tambomachay & Cusco ruins tour departure
Private transport to/from Cusco as described in the itinerary

Trekking Team

English/Quechua/Spanish speaking professional guide

Additional inclusions

Visits to eminent weaving houses in Cusco
Boleto Turistico and entry fees
Lunch in a typical Peruvian restaurant

What is Not Included?

Breakfast on the first morning.
Snacks and water
Horseback riding
Tips for the guide

Optional Extras & Upgrades

When calculating the cost of renting equipment, calculate using the length of the entire trip, not just the number of trekking days. Even though you won’t use the equipment on the final day it will still be ‘on the road’ and unavailable for others to use.

Please be careful with rented equipment! You are responsible for the cost of replacement if something is damaged or broken.

Light-weight aluminum walking stick. Two sticks are recommended for tough hikes.
Combine with a day trip to Machu Picchu , either at the beginning or end of your trek
Combine with any trek for a complete Cusco Experience!
Horseback riding – ask us for pricing

What to Pack

Cusco can experience every season in a single day, so you should be prepared for sun and rain, cold and hot weather! We recommend a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, sweater, rain gear or plastic poncho, winter hat or toque and gloves. In addition, you should bring:

A light day pack to carry your things
Water bottle and snacks
Money for snacks, souvenirs and tips

You can also see What To Bring for our comprehensive recommendations on what to pack for a trek in the Andes. For more great suggestions, check out our blog about How to Prepare for a Trek in Peru .

Available Discounts

5% off a day tour listed price when you also book a 3-day or longer trek operated by Apus Peru
Youth 12-17 : 5% off. A valid passport must be presented upon booking.
Children 5-11 years : 15% off. A valid passport must be presented upon booking.
Children 0-4 years : 75% off. A valid passport must be presented upon booking. Children under 4 will not count towards the total number of guests in a group, but will be charged 25% of the per person price based on final group size. For example, a group of 4 adults and one child under 4: adults will be charged the full price per person based on a group size of 4 and the child will be charged 25% of the per person price for a group of 4. Children under 3 will not be considered to occupy a seat on any train or bus, and instead must ride on a parent’s lap. Car seats, cribs and other baby needs may not be included and must be discussed in advance. For more information about travelling with infants and toddlers, please see this blog as well as the Age Requirements section of our Booking Conditions .

Remember that scans of the student card (for students) or passports (for children) need to accompany the booking in order to be eligible for the discount.

Trekkers Wanted

Want to join a trek? Ready to confirm a departure date of your own, but interested in having others join you? Then Trekkers Wanted is for you! Our innovative Trekkers Wanted system matches people up who are interested in hiking the same trek, bringing costs down and multiplying the fun for everyone!

Read More about Trekkers Wanted, post your trek or search for confirmed departures!

Important Info

Each guide has their own preferred route and so the route you trek might not correspond exactly to the route described here.
The times cited in this Tambomachay and Cusco ruins itinerary are approximate . Walking times depend on the group, and the guide may change lunch spots depending on the progress of the group.
The program is subject to change, due to weather and other unexpected circumstances

Ready to Book?

Does this trek sound like just what you were looking for? If you’re ready to book or just want to find out a bit more information, fill out the Inquiry Form in the top right-hand corner of this page to get the ball rolling. You’ll be connected with one of our amazing sales people who will be able to turn your dream of hiking in the Andes into a reality. For more information on the entire booking process, please see our How To Book page.
Travel insurance is a must! World Nomads offers travel insurance for adventure activities .

Sacsayhuaman & Cusco Ruins Tour Itinerary

We will pick you up early from your hotel in our private transport for this Tambomachay tour, and take you high above the city of the Cusco! From here, we will either continue by vehicle or by horse depending on what you chose at the time of booking.

We spend the morning visiting the most famous Inca ruins just outside Cusco: Tambomachay, Puca Pucara, the Temple of the Moon and Q’enqo, ending up at the spectacular archeological site of Sacsayhuaman. Our flexible itinerary allows you to walk down from Sacsayhuaman to Cusco (an interesting walk and helpful for trekkers needing to acclimatize to the altitude) or take private transport.

After lunch at a local restaurant, we will have a walking tour of Cusco, the ancient capital of the Incas and the “Navel of the World”. Our afternoon tour includes the Cathedral, Q’oricancha (the Temple of the Sun), as well as eminent weaving houses in the city where you can learn a little about this living tradition of the Incas.

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Home » Free tour of Sacsayhuaman

Free tour of Sacsayhuaman

Join us for the best free tour of Sacsayhuaman on the outskirts of the city of Cusco. Sacsayhuamán is an archaeological complex from the Inca period located 3,700 m a.s.l. — two kilometers north of Cusco city.

According to the chronicles, this archaeological site was part of the city wall of Cusco and also a temple dedicated to the god the lightning, built by the ninth emperor Pachacútec at the beginning of the 15th century.

OPERATION ISSUE OF THIS TOUR

Book your free tour of Sacsayhuaman with a minimum of 24 hours in advance to secure your spot.

Meeting place

Read the Meeting Point Tab, pls.
Read the Details Tab, pls.

Transfer from Cusco to Sacsayhuaman

Sacsayhuamán — interior visit, return to cusco city on foot, san blas neighborhood, ending place.

We finish the tour very close to the Plaza de Armas of Lima.

MEETING PLACE

Plazoleta Regocijo in front of Chicha Restaurant — how to get in there? Please, don’t get confused with the Plaza de Armas!

Look for our Operator Logo

Look for Chicha Restaurant

Free – based on your donation, neither our tour guides nor the team members have set salaries.

Tour Type: Group tour, no private service.

Accessibility: This tour is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.

Included: Professional tour guide.

How do I book?

Reservations are mandatory .
You should book at least 24 hours in advance .
Double check your meet up times for this free tour .
Even though you can fill out the reservation form (calendar) with your details.
We are currently working to block last-minute booking dates.
Soon, we will block dates and schedules on the calendar when this free tour does not operate.
We require a minimum of two participants to conduct the tour.
Please fill out the form with your information written correctly.

What do I bring?

Rain ponchos.
Anti-slip shoes.
Cash (Peruvian soles, American dollars or Euros) for the tip.

WhatsApp : .

Please, scroll down to see reviews.

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WHY BOOK WITH SAM TRAVEL?

SAM Travel was born of our love for sharing these beautiful places with travelers. Our owner ( Saúl Alvarez ) went from porter to guide to business owner, without losing sight of his roots. We know how to show you the most beautiful places and give you the most authentic experiences. For Sam Travel our guides are the most important in the business , they all are fluent in Ingles and passoinated about teh culture. They are all trained and retrained in first aid and carry satellite phones for any emergency to be connected to a medical professional when or if needed. We can guarantee our guides will make you feel like hiking with your own family or friends

EXPERT Direct & 100% Local Tour operaor

All our Tours & Treks are provided only by SAM Travel Peru staff and professional guides. What that means for you is that SAM Travel Peru will never pass you onto another company or 3rd Party .

Our Camping Equipment

Enjoy a good night sleep in our 4 season igloo waterproof, spacious and professional EUREKA tent. All our tents are 4 person tents. ONLY 2 people will sleep in each, leaving lots of room to spread out comfortably and store your duffel bag.

Small Groups for Big Wows

To ensure a more personalized service for our guests, at SAM Travel Peru we have a policy that our groups will not exceed 8 people. This fact alone sets us apart from other companies that operate departures with bigger groups..

Unique Tours & Trekking Packages for all budgets

We have the most customized tours and packages for all budgets. They are created to meet our clients’ desires and needs when looking for something unique in a travel experience.

Gourmet and Hearty Meals

SAM TRAVEL PERÚ has one of the most outstanding meal services. Our chefs have been highly trained to prepare the best peruavian food our treks.

Our Commitment to the Environment

SAM Travel Peru has annual clean-up campaigns that creates awareness towards people across the planet that have the same desires to help protect the environment. It is our commitment in creating a positive and sustainable contribution towards the quality of life for rural Andean communities. .

Join the thousands of satisfied customers who rate us #1 on TripAdvisor

Trip Advisor

Had a great trip with our guide Ray Herrera and driver Alfredo. Lots of good experiences in a short period of time 4 days. Learnt a lot not just about the main tourist destinations but Peru in general by Ray. Ray has a passion for Inca history and local produce. Ray knows all the good photo spots and we managed the sun out every day .. Good culture and if you want to get on a tour ask for Ray at Sams Travel = amazing

Ray was our Tour Guide and Alfredo was our driver for a 4 day tour we did with SAM Travel Peru. Ray's knowledge of the history of Cusco and Machu Picchu was outstanding. Ray was very accommodating with all our needs. He stayed alongside us when trekking and helped where he could. His sense of humour was pleasant to be around. Ray spoke very good English. He is such a nice guy. I would strongly recommend Ray to be your tour guide to visit Machu Picchu. Ray explained everyday what the plans were for the next day, which was reassuring what we needed to take etc

Our 1 day tour thru the Sacred Vally with Danny was wonderful. He was very knowledgeable and able to answer all our questions in detail. I would recommend asking for him personally if you are able.

We booked the Classic Cusco to Machu Picchu tour with SAM travel which we really had a good experience. SAM travel is very responsive during the communication and cater to our changes needed. Our guide is Ray who is also an very awesome guide. He is knowledgeable, patient, humorous as well reliable, he help us take many good photos and also go extra mile to help with our request. Thanks Ray! Thanks SAM travel that gave us good memories in Peru! Highly recommend if you consider booking any tour in Cusco.

Reviews by Trip Advisor

Wow. We had such an incredible experience in Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. Our guide, Dayvit, is the most knowledgeable guide we have ever had. He has such an extensive knowledge of the history and is very friendly and helpful. If you are planning a trip to Peru, I highly recommend SAM travel and be sure to request Dayvit!

2 day tour sacred valley / Machu Picchu highly recommend! David was the best tour guide. He knows an incredible amount about Incan culture and is personable and funny. He also kept us up to date on a political situation happening when we were there and was informative. Overall, this tour checks all the boxes. Thank you!

We used SAM Travel for a 2D/1N trip from Cusco to Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu on Dec 25-26, 2022. The team was good with communication from the start - both Saul and Junior were very helpful and professional with answering any questions and clearing up any misunderstandings. Our guide, Miguel, was prompt, pleasant, and quite knowledgeable. We enjoyed his company and insight over the 2 day trip and recommend him to anyone booking with SAM Travel.

Reviews by Google

My wife and I just completed two excursions with SAM Travel Peru and we absolutely loved them. We did the 4 Day Salkantay Wilderness + Machu Picchu and then the 2-Day Rainbow Mountain + 7 Lakes trek with guide Carlos Estrada, chefs Nerio & Lucio, and horseman Unarato. Over the last 6 days we have learned so much about the Inca culture, discovered some of the most incredible sights, and ate delicious food every step of the way. We would definitely recommend SAM Travel (especially with Carlos!) to anyone that wants an incredible Peruvian adventure. The Wilderness trek is a much quieter trail than the standard Salkantay and goes a bit higher elevation, but camping at the base of Salkantay was incredible. Carlos's guided tour through Machu Picchu was so informative. We would have missed so much without him taking the time to share his knowledge.

Big thanks to David he was an amazing tour guide who really cared for our group. He allowed us to go at our own pace and was a brilliant photographer He was really funny and is full of interesting information & his passion for his inca ancestors is very obvious and warming. He also brought us to great restaurants! This company are very good and from what I can recall were cheaper than most. Thank you!

They took care of everything! Saul the owner is very responsive and helpful. Johnny our guide was fantastic, as were our chef, assistant chef and horsemen. I can’t recommend them highly enough and will definitely use them again if we return to Peru!

Three of us decided to choose Sam Travel Peru, reason being is it is a local travel company that help indegenious communities. We picked Lares Trek 4D3N to have cultural experience while hiking. Good foods provided by talented Mario Chef! Johnny is our tour guide, very helpful tour guide. He even helped me to carry my daypack as I was too exhausted to carry it on day 1 hiking. Strongly recommend to those like to have local experience while hiking.

Reviews by Facebook

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Our packages range from short day tours to longer expeditions, and cover destinations such as Machu Picchu, the Amazon rainforest, Lake Titicaca, Colca Canyon, Huacachina Nazca, Lima and more. We also offer adventure tours, trekking tours, and cultural immersion experiences, as well as tailor-made itineraries to meet specific requests.

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Join us on a journey of discovery and adventure in Peru, and let us create a personalized package that exceeds your expectations. Contact us today to start planning your dream trip!

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We are honored to have been chosen by our travelers as their travelers’ choice of 2022. Trust us to plan your travel, for an unforgettable, once in a lifetime experience. We are humbled and proud to provide the best tours to Machu Picchu, trekking the Inca trail and other tours and treks throughout the Cusco region and beyond.

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COMMENTS

Sacsayhuamán Virtual Tour
Saqsaywaman, which can be spelled many different ways (possibly from Quechua language, waman falcon or variable hawk), is a citadel on the northern outskirts...
Virtual Tour Around Sacsayhuaman
Join us to experience the power of this incredible site on our 2024 Peru/ Bolivia tour this August 1-12th! We will also see 20+ of the most amazing ancient s...
Virtual: Sacsayhuaman
JOIN VIRTUAL TOUR. As the largest and most impressive archaeological site on the outskirts of Cusco, Peru, Saqsaywaman was built by the Incas from massive stones weighing as much as 130 tons. Learn more about the incas with Mike as we explore the site. ... Virtual: Sacsayhuaman - Megalithic Construction. $0.00 As the largest and most impressive ...
Sacsayhuaman: The Inca Fortress
In this virtual tour, we will discover the secrets, history and architecture that make Sacsayhuaman an unparalleled wonder. Location and Significance Where is Sacsayhuaman located? Just 2 kilometers north of Cusco's Main Square, Sacsayhuaman rises 3,700 meters above sea level, covering an area of more than 3,000 hectares.
Peru 4K: Ancient Cusco Uncovered! Free Walking Tour
We go inside Sacsayhuaman ceremonial fortress early in the morning (fewer tourists). You will find amazing views of the ruins walls and panoramic views of Cu...
A Guide to Visiting Sacsayhuaman Ruins in Cusco, Peru
The Sacsayhuaman is opened from 7 AM to 5:30 PM, Monday to Sunday. The opening hours are similar to other Inca ruins in the valley. The best time to visit the complex is early in the morning or late in the afternoon. If you want to avoid crowds, though, midday is the time to go in.
How to Visit Sacsayhuaman + the Surrounding Ruins
Tambomachay. After visiting each ruin, you can go to the main road and wave down a taxi to take you to the next one. A taxi from Sacsayhuaman to Qenko will cost about 5 soles/ $1.50 usd. The taxi from Qenko to Puka Pukara will cost around 8 soles/ $2.25 usd more. Then, from Puka Pukara you can walk to Tambomachay.
The virtual reality of Inca architecture: Sacsayhuaman
The virtual reality of Inca architecture: Sacsayhuaman. When you tour Cusco and stand before the ruins of Sacsayhuaman, take a long moment and look up at those terraced zig-zagging walls. Try to picture the fortress temple as it looked 500 years ago during the reign the Inca. It's no easy feat of imagination, reconstructing in the mind's ...
Sacsayhuamán
Sacsayhuaman Archaeological Park, located on the outskirts of the city of Cusco, is one of the most imposing and enigmatic archaeological charms in the world. It is an ancient Inca temple that ...
How To Visit Sacsayhuaman, Cusco: 12 Best Things To Know
Sacsayhuaman is the site of ancient Incan ruins located on the edge of the historic city of Cusco at an altitude of 12,142 feet (that's a whopping 3,700 meters above sea level). These days, it's an active archaeological site and one of the top attractions in the Cusco area; but hundreds of years ago, it was a mighty citadel in the Incan Empire.
Sacsayhuaman: All You Need To Know
Opening Times: The entry times to Sacsayhuaman are Monday-Sunday 7:00 am to 6:00 pm. Prices: Entry included in Tourist Ticket that costs around S/. 70 to S/. 130. You must buy a tourist ticket for most of the attractions in Cusco. Visit Sacsayhuaman Soon. Don't miss out the opportunity to immerse yourself in this ancient world of Sacsayhuaman.
Visiting the Inca Ruins of Sacsayhuaman in Peru (Full Guide!)
Located high on a hill overlooking Cusco, Sacsayhuaman is one of the most famous Inca archaeological sites in the area. Sacsayhuaman is an Inca complex that was built during the 15th century. Much like Machu Picchu, it contains a citadel and religious sites. It also served as a military fortress.
Peru 4K: Ancient Cusco Uncovered! Free Walking Tour
Free Walking Tour - Sacsayhuaman Fortress Virtual Experience 🇵🇪 ... We go inside Sacsayhuaman ceremonial fortress early in the morning (fewer tourists). You will find amazing views of the ruins walls and panoramic views of Cusco city. 00:16 Sapantiana entrance 02:58 Saccsayhuaman fortress walls 06:55 Explanada & Rodadero
Megalithic Sacsayhuaman: Older than the Inca? An ...
A virtual tour of the mysterious megalithic site of Sacsayhuaman - and a look into the 3 styles of architecture that are prevalent here, and on many other an...
Live Virtual Tour: Sacsayhuaman, Peru
Description Join a local Peruvian expert and archaeologist, broadcasting live from the Andes mountain range, as we explore the ancient megalithic constructions at Sacsayhuaman. During this camera-led tour, we will investigate this impressive and sacred Inca fortress and temple, largely built during the government of In
Sacsayhuaman
Sacsayhuaman is located only 2 kilometers away from Cusco at 3,700 meters above sea level. It is easily accessible by walk or car since it is near Plaza de Armas. However, if you wish to visit this historical monument, we highly recommend taking a guided tour.
Everything You Need to Know About Sacsayhuaman
Height and Weight of Stones. The stones used in Sacsayhuaman vary in size and shape, from massive blocks to smaller stones. The diversity of sizes contributes to the complexity and beauty of the structure. Some vertical stones in Sacsayhuaman reach impressive heights, ranging from around 2 meters to over 9 meters.
Sacsayhuamán Fortress Peru Guide: Tours, Hiking, Maps, Buildings, Facts
7. The Sacsayhuaman Walls or Group of Enclosures. The Sacsayhuaman Walls or Group of Enclosures is situated at the top of the hills and has a view of the city and squares. The Group of Enclosures is known as the "religious sector". The rooms are long and narrow. The Sacsayhuaman Walls or Group of Enclosures show the architectural style of ...
Sacsayhuaman (Saqsaywaman), Cusco
6 Days Exploring Cusco, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu. 154. Discover the great city of Cusco and its surroundings during this comprehensive 6-day tour. Explore the landmarks of the city, the archeological sites of Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Pisac, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and the famous Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
Sacsayhuaman Inca Ruins Tour
Sacsayhuaman & Cusco City Tour Itinerary. 1 DAY. We pick you up from your hotel at 8:30 am. Our private vehicle starts first with an uphill 20-minute drive high to the hills above Cusco. This day trip is ideal for acclimatisation in the high altitudes of Cusco (3,400m/11,155ft). Our first port of call is Puca Pucara.
Sacsayhuaman & Cusco Ruins Tour
About the Sacsayhuaman & Cusco Ruins Tour. This tour is the perfect introduction to Cusco. We pack in all the significant Inca and colonial sights of the historic center, plus the four amazing Cusco ruins just outside town including Tambomachay and Sacsayhuaman. Read more about these fascinating Inca ruins and their history!
Free tour of Sacsayhuaman
Join us for the best free tour of Sacsayhuaman on the outskirts of the city of Cusco. Sacsayhuamán is an archaeological complex from the Inca period located 3,700 m a.s.l. — two kilometers north of Cusco city. Book your free tour of Sacsayhuaman with a minimum of 24 hours in advance to secure your spot.
Sacsayhuaman and Pisac Day Tour
The Sacsayhuaman and Pisac Day Tour focuses on 2 of the most important archeological sites in Cusco, Sacsayhuaman and the Inca Village of Pisac, with its impressive Incan Ruins above the city. Sacsayhuaman is an impressive ruin that dominates the northeastern part of the city of Cusco. We also explore the archeological sites of Q'enqo, Puca ...

Sacsayhuaman: The Inca Fortress

Location and Significance

Where is Sacsayhuaman located?

What does Sacsayhuaman mean?

Discovering Inca Architecture

How did the Incas build Sacsayhuaman?

What to see in Sacsayhuaman?

Group of Enclosures

The Walls (Los Baluartes)

Suchuna (Rodaderos)

The throne of the Inca

Chincanas (Tunnels)

Visiting Sacsayhuaman

How to get to Sacsayhuaman?

How much does it cost to visit Sacsayhuaman?

Important information about Sacsayhuaman

Weather, Schedule and More

Frequently Asked Questions about Sacsayhuaman

2) Is there an entrance ticket only to visit Sacsayhuaman?

3) Can I get tour guides at Sacsayhuaman?

4) What is the most famous construction in Sacsayhuaman?

5) What does Sacsayhuaman represent?

6) What can you do in Sacsayhuaman?

7) When is the best time to visit Sacsayhuamán?

8) Are there tours to Sacsayhuamán?

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