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Uncategorized
Feb 15, 2025
-5 min. reading time
Cusco to Explore

Machu Picchu, Ollantaytambo and Pisaq are just some of the many famous archaeological sites that make Cusco an invaluable destination. However, a tour of lesser-known routes allows us to discover new perspectives of its culture and history.
Raqchi
Approximately 120 kilometers southeast of Cusco, in the District of San Pedro de Cachas in the Province of Canchis (one of the two provinces that support the Vinicunca Mountain, or the Mountain of Seven Colors), is located Raqchi. Also known as the Temple of Wiracocha, it is an Inca construction that stands out for its imposing central structure: this large adobe volume is one of the best-preserved examples of the architecture of the time.
Wiracocha was one of the most important deities of the Inca Empire and was considered “the creator of all things”. Raqchi, the temple dedicated to this god essential to the Inca cosmovision, includes an impressive single-walled structure and several agricultural terraces. The Temple of Wiracocha, with its great wall and columns, is the focal point of the complex.
Since the visit can be long, it is recommended to bring water and sunscreen (always bring the latter for any trek or visit). It is also advisable to hire a local guide to learn more about the history and architecture of the place.
Tipón
Located 25 kilometers from Cusco, this is an archaeological site that stands out for showing the agricultural terraces and irrigation systems of the Tahuantinsuyo. Tipón was built by the Incas and is an impressive display of their advanced engineering.
A visit to Tipón involves getting close to its sophisticated irrigation systems and aqueducts, as well as agricultural terraces on several levels, water canals that still work, and ceremonial and residential structures. Because of its location, Tipón also has a beautiful view of the Cusco Valley.
It is advisable to arrive early in the morning to avoid the midday sun, and to be able to continue with other nearby visits.
Pikillacta
About 32 kilometers southeast of Cusco, on the road to National Park of Manu and near the town of Huaro (where the beautiful Chapel of the Purified Virgin of Canincunca is located), is the Archaeological Park of Pikillacta. This site was an important city of the Wari Empire, before the Incas. This pre-Inca citadel stands out for its well-preserved adobe structures and its complex urban planning, which is still revealed in the series of buildings and streets of amazing engineering.
The Wari culture flourished in the central Andes of Peru between about 600 and 1100 AC. The Wari had a significant influence on the development of the Andean region. Pikillacta is one of their largest sites, covering an area of nearly 2 square kilometers. This massive scale reflects the importance and power of the Wari culture at its height.
Since the site is quite large, it is recommended to bring enough water and appropriate footwear to walk long stretches.
Moray
50 kilometers northwest of Cusco, near the town of Maras, lie these mystical circular terraces. The history and purpose of Moray is still an enigma; however, evidence suggests that a segment was built by a pre-Inca culture, somewhere between the sixth and tenth centuries. The remains of the archaeological complex we see today were created by the Incas between the twelfth and fourteenth centuries.
The terraces of Moray are arranged in the form of an amphitheater: it is believed that they were used for agricultural experiments and this arrangement allowed them to study the effects of different altitudes on crop growth. The site is truly fascinating: the circular terraces descend in a spiral shape, creating microclimates, precisely what allowed them to experiment with different crops.
Moray has a tropical mountain climate and is located 3,500 meters above sea level. Preparing the camera to capture its unique landscape is a must.
We know that exceptional service is the cornerstone of a memorable trip. That is why Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Cusco, and Tambo del Inka, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Sacred Valley have a concierge service available. It is a team of experts in this destination that can help coordinate explorations and visits, provide more information about the route, and facilitate tips that guarantee an unforgettable experience.
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