Short answer: Sacsayhuamán sits on the hill above the Plaza de Armas: you can walk up in 20–30 minutes (steep) or take a taxi in about 10 minutes. Qenqo, Puka Pukara and Tambomachay are further up, along the road to Pisac. To see all four in one afternoon without the climb, a private city tour costs US$43 (S/ 150) per vehicle.
What to see
- Sacsayhuamán: the great Inca complex above Cusco, with zigzag walls of huge, perfectly fitted stones. Every June 24 it hosts the main Inti Raymi ceremony.
- Qenqo: a large carved rock with channels, steps and an inner chamber believed to be a ceremonial altar.
- Puka Pukara: a reddish-stone checkpoint beside the Inca road.
- Tambomachay: fountains and water channels that still work, known as “the Inca’s bath”.
How to get there from the Plaza de Armas
| Option | Time | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Walk (via San Cristóbal) | 20–30 min uphill | Travelers already acclimatized |
| Taxi to Sacsayhuamán | 10 min | Visiting Sacsayhuamán only |
| Viajes D’MARC private city tour | Half day (5h) | All 4 sites plus Qoricancha, no uphill walking |
Tickets and opening hours
All four sites are included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico, circuit I or full ticket); there is no single-site ticket at the gate. They open daily, morning to late afternoon. Prices and hours can change, so check before you go.
Tips
- Just arrived? Don’t walk up on day one: you are above 3,600 m and the climb is tiring.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat and water; there is no shade up there.
- The best photo light is in the afternoon, with the city lit from the front.
- Start at Tambomachay and work your way down to Sacsayhuamán, so the route is downhill.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get to Sacsayhuamán?
About 20–30 minutes on foot from the Plaza de Armas, or 10 minutes by taxi.
Can I buy a ticket just for Sacsayhuamán?
No. Entry is with the Cusco Tourist Ticket, which also covers Qenqo, Puka Pukara and Tambomachay.
What is Qenqo?
An Inca shrine carved into a large rock, with channels and an inner chamber, about a 15-minute walk from Sacsayhuamán.
How much is the private city tour?
With Viajes D’MARC, US$43 (S/ 150) per vehicle, with hotel pick-up.