Explore the Majestic Saqsaywaman: A Glimpse into Incan History
Discover the ancient Incan fortress of Saqsaywaman in Cusco, a breathtaking archaeological site offering rich history and stunning views.
Nestled just outside Cusco, Saqsaywaman is an impressive archaeological site known for its remarkable dry-stone construction and breathtaking views of the city. This ancient fortress offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of the Inca civilization while enjoying panoramic vistas that showcase the beauty of Peru's landscape. As you wander through the vast ruins, you'll encounter intricately crafted stone walls and an atmosphere steeped in mystery and tradition, making it a must-visit for any traveler eager to delve into the past.
A brief summary to Saqsaywaman
- Cusco, 08002, PE
- Monday 7 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 7 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 7 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 7 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 7 am-5:30 pm
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Saqsaywaman.
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peace of the site.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven and involves some hiking.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of Cusco and the surrounding landscapes.
- Consider joining a guided tour for deeper insights into the history and significance of the site.
- Stay hydrated and bring water, especially if you plan to walk around extensively.
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Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from Apurímac to Saqsaywaman, start by heading northwest on the Pan-American Highway (Route 3S) towards Cusco. The journey is approximately 4 hours (around 150 km). Upon reaching Cusco, follow the signs leading to Saqsaywaman. Once you are in Cusco, look for the signs indicating 'Saqsaywaman' and follow Avenida de la Cultura, then take a right on Avenida Pardo. Continue straight until you see the entrance to Saqsaywaman. Note that parking is available near the entrance, and there may be a small fee for parking.
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Public Transportation
To reach Saqsaywaman from Apurímac using public transportation, first take a bus from Abancay (the capital of Apurímac) to Cusco. The bus ride takes about 5-6 hours and costs approximately 20-30 soles (about $6-9 USD). Once you arrive at the Cusco bus terminal, you can take a taxi or a local bus to Saqsaywaman. Taxis are available and can take you directly to the site for around 10-20 soles ($3-6 USD). Alternatively, you can catch a local bus heading towards the neighborhood of San Blas; the bus ride will drop you near the entrance of Saqsaywaman.
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Walking from Cusco
For those who prefer to walk, Saqsaywaman is about a 30-45 minute hike from the main square in Cusco (Plaza de Armas). Start at the Plaza de Armas and head north towards the San Blas neighborhood. Continue uphill, following signs for Saqsaywaman. The path is well-marked and offers beautiful views of the city along the way. Be prepared for a steep incline, and wear comfortable shoes. Entry to Saqsaywaman is around 70 soles ($20 USD) for foreign tourists, so be sure to bring cash.
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