Qenqo, Puka Pukara and Tambomachay: the Inca sites above Cusco and how to visit them

In the hills just north of Cusco, a few kilometres from the Plaza de Armas, sits a chain of archaeological sites that almost every traveller visits along with Sacsayhuamán: Qenqo, Puka Pukara and Tambomachay. They're smaller than the big Sacred Valley complexes, but they show very clearly how the Incas wove rock, water and landscape into religious and political life. You can see them in half a day and combine them with a pleasant downhill walk back to town.

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The three sites, from bottom to top

Qenqo (Q'enqo)

A large limestone outcrop carved inside and out. Its name is usually translated as "labyrinth" or "zigzag", after the zigzag channels cut into the top, through which liquids such as chicha or blood are thought to have flowed during rituals. Inside there's an underground chamber with an altar carved into the rock, probably linked to ancestor worship and Pachamama. It sits at about 3,580 m, very close to Sacsayhuamán.

Puka Pukara

Its name means "red fortress", after the reddish tone the stones take on at sunset. Rather than a fortress, it's thought to have been a tambo — a checkpoint and resting place on the road to the Antisuyo (the Amazon region) — with rooms, plazas, stairways and storehouses. It has good views over the Cusco valley.

Tambomachay

Known as the "Inca Baths", it's a set of finely worked stone walls and fountains where spring water still flows through channels. It's interpreted as a place devoted to water worship and perhaps a resting place for the Inca elite. It's the highest of the three, at around 3,700 m.

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Entrance: the Tourist Ticket

All three sites, plus Sacsayhuamán, are included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico, BTC). You can use the general ticket, which covers many more sites over several days, or the partial circuit ticket that covers these four sites for one day. Individual tickets for each site aren't sold, and prices differ for foreigners and Peruvians. Fees change, so check official information before you go.

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Hours and time needed

• The sites usually open roughly 7:00 am to 5:30 or 6:00 pm; confirm current hours.
• Allow about 2–3 hours to see all three calmly, more if you add Sacsayhuamán.
• Early morning means fewer groups and better light.

The best route: ride up, walk down

Many travellers' favourite plan is to start at the top and walk back downhill:

1. Take a taxi or local bus towards Pisac or Calca and ask to get off at Tambomachay (about 8 km from the centre).
2. Visit Tambomachay and cross the road to Puka Pukara, right opposite.
3. Walk along the road or trails to Qenqo, roughly an hour of gentle descent.
4. Continue to Sacsayhuamán and Cristo Blanco, then take the stairs down to San Blas or the centre.

In total it's about 8 km, mostly downhill, in 2–3 hours at an easy pace plus time at the sites.

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On a city tour

The classic Cusco city tour, usually in the afternoon, visits Qorikancha and the Cathedral or centre, then drives up to Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puka Pukara and Tambomachay. It's convenient and guided, but time at each site is short and the light fades early. Check whether the price includes the Tourist Ticket or whether you buy it separately.

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Other ways to visit

• On horseback: there are horse rides around Sacsayhuamán and the "Temple of the Moon". Choose operators who look after their animals.
• By bike: some operators offer downhill rides from the Tambomachay area.
• With a private guide: ideal if you love history and want your own pace.

Altitude and acclimatisation

These sites are a bit higher than central Cusco. They make a good second-day activity if you go slowly and drink water; if you arrived today, leave them for later.

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Notice: This guide shares advice and recommendations based on research and local experience. Prices, opening hours and rules may change: always check with official sources and operators. Cusco Tips is not responsible for third-party services, bookings or decisions made using these guides; some links are affiliate links (see our affiliate policy).