Category: Cusco

Waqrapukara is an Inca fortress located on top of a mountain south of Cusco. Its name comes from a Quechua word that means ‘Fortress in the shape of a horn’ because this construction is between two rock formations in the shape of horns. It is located in the district of Acos, province of Acomayo in the department of Cusco. It is near the Apurimac River at 4 300 m a. s. n. m. It was built by the Canchis and then conquered by the Incas. It was declared in July 2017 as Cultural Heritage of the Nation by the Ministry of Culture.

Embark on a unique experience in the Super Sacred Valley (VIP Valley), a combined tour that allows you to explore the best of the Sacred Valley and its surroundings in a single day. Starting at 06:30 am, we will begin our adventure in Chinchero, visiting its church, the archaeological park and a textile production center. Then, we will head to Moray to marvel at its circular terraces and the Maras salt mines, with its impressive 5000 pools. After a delicious buffet lunch in Urubamba, we will explore Ollantaytambo and finish in Pisac, with its impressive agricultural terraces. We will return to Cusco around 07:00 pm, concluding a day full of history, culture and breathtaking scenery.

Embark on a fascinating day trip to Cusco’s South Valley, where you will discover Inca hydraulic engineering at Tipon and pre-Inca history at Pikillacta. In addition, you will visit the picturesque church of Andahuaylillas, known as “The Sistine of America”. You will enjoy panoramic views from the “Cielo Punku” viewpoint in Huaro, where the sculpture of the Giant Hand is located. En route, you will pass through the charming villages of Saylla, Tipon and Oropesa, famous for their culinary delights such as pork rinds and large breads called “chutas”. You will have time to enjoy lunch in one of these places before returning to Cusco around 4:00 pm.

Discover the breathtaking natural beauty of the Seven Lagoons on this exciting day tour. After being picked up at your hotel between 04:00 am and 04:30 am, we will head south of Cusco. After a 3-hour drive, we will arrive at the picturesque village of Pacchanta, where we will enjoy a delicious breakfast before beginning our hike to the impressive Ausangate Lakes. For five hours, we will explore this fascinating circuit, admiring the local fauna and, with luck, spotting the majestic Andean Condor. After returning to Pacchanta, we will enjoy a comforting lunch and have time to relax in the local hot springs. Finally, we will return to Cusco around 7:00 pm, culminating a day full of adventure and nature.

Embark on a unique experience on a day tour to Q’eswachaka, the last Inca bridge “alive” today, renewed every year by the Quechua communities of the region. After pick up from your hotel between 04:00 am and 04:30 am, we will head south of Cusco. After breakfast in Ccolcca, we will explore the 4 lagoons and pass through historic villages. In Q’eswachaka, you will learn about the cultural importance of this bridge declared Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. In addition, we will visit the colonial bridge of Combapata before returning to Cusco, culminating a day full of history and tradition at approximately 17:00 hrs.

Palcoyo Mountain is another hidden natural treasure in the Peruvian Andes, near the city of Cusco, although not as well known as Machu Picchu or the Mountain of Seven Colors (Vinicunca). However, it offers an equally impressive experience for those looking to explore the beauty of the Peruvian Andes in a quieter and less crowded environment.

What makes Palcoyo Mountain so special are its unique geological formations and surreal landscape. Unlike the Seven Colors Mountain, where the colors are the main attraction, in Palcoyo you will find a variety of less intense but equally beautiful colors, combined with impressive rock strata and mountain formations that seem to be taken from another world.

The ascent to Palcoyo Mountain is less demanding than Vinicunca, making it an excellent option for those who prefer a more relaxed hike. However, a certain level of fitness is still required due to the altitude and steepness.

Once you reach the top, you will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and the snow-capped Andes Mountains. In addition, you will have the opportunity to explore the surrounding area and marvel at the natural beauty of the region.

Palcoyo Mountain is a relatively new destination compared to other tourist sites in the region, which means that it still retains its natural charm and is not as crowded as other nearby attractions. This makes it an attractive option for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a more authentic Peruvian wilderness experience. However, as with any tourist destination, it is important to practice responsible tourism and respect the natural environment when visiting Palcoyo Mountain.

Machu Picchu is one of the most emblematic and visited archaeological wonders of the world, located high in the Peruvian Andes, near the city of Cusco. This ancient Inca site was built in the mid-15th century and then abandoned in the 16th century, probably due to the Spanish conquest, but was rediscovered by the American explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911.

The citadel of Machu Picchu is located in a breathtaking setting, high on a mountain ridge, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks of the Andes. Its architectural design is a marvel, with agricultural terraces, plazas, temples and residences built with precision and harmony with the natural environment.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Machu Picchu is its mysterious history and exact purpose. Although it is believed to have been built as a refuge and ceremonial center for the Inca elite, there are still many unknowns about its exact function and how it was used by the ancient civilization.

Today, Machu Picchu attracts millions of visitors from around the world each year, who come to marvel at its architectural beauty, breathtaking scenery and rich history. Visitors can explore the ruins on foot, walking along the cobblestone paths and stairways that connect the different sectors of the citadel, or they can opt for longer hikes, such as the famous Inca Trail, which offers a more complete experience of the region’s natural and cultural environment.

Machu Picchu has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and is a must-see destination for any lover of history, archeology and nature. However, due to its popularity, it is important to take measures to preserve this historic site and its natural environment, following local regulations and respecting the cultural heritage of the region.

Humantay Lake is a natural treasure located in the Cusco region of Peru. It is a glacial lake with a stunning turquoise color, located at an altitude of approximately 4,200 meters above sea level and surrounded by the imposing mountains of the Andes.

The journey to Humantay Lake is an experience in itself. Visitors usually depart from the city of Cusco on a day trip that includes a car ride followed by a hike of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on pace and physical condition, through mountainous terrain and breathtaking Andean landscapes.

Once you arrive at the lagoon, you are greeted with a scene that looks like something out of a fairy tale. The bright blue color of the water contrasts with the white snow on the surrounding mountains and the green vegetation of the surrounding area. In addition to admiring the scenic beauty, visitors also have the opportunity to enjoy a moment of tranquility and reflection in this impressive natural setting.

Many consider Laguna Humantay to be a sacred place for the Incas, and rituals and ceremonies are still held on its shores. For travelers, it is a unique opportunity to connect with nature and experience the majesty of the Peruvian Andes at their finest. However, as with other natural destinations, it is important to respect the environment and follow environmental preservation guidelines when visiting Laguna Humantay.