Sacsayhuamán is the great Inca complex overlooking Cusco from the north. Its zigzag walls, built from stone blocks weighing several tons and fitted together without mortar, are among the most impressive feats of engineering in the Americas.
What to see
- The three tiers of zigzag walls, with stones weighing more than 100 tons.
- The esplanade (Chukipampa), where Inti Raymi is staged every June 24.
- The foundations of the Muyucmarca and Sallacmarca towers.
- The Rodadero and the Inca’s Throne, across from the walls.
- The view of Cusco from the Cristo Blanco lookout, close by.
How to get there
It’s about 2 km from the Plaza de Armas. You can walk up through the streets of San Cristóbal in 30 to 40 minutes, or take a taxi in 10 minutes. The Cusco City Tour includes it along with Qenqo, Puka Pukara and Tambomachay.
Admission
Admission is included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico del Cusco), either the full ticket or the partial one for the sites around the city. No individual tickets are sold.
Tips
- Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon: the light is better and there are fewer groups.
- It sits at about 3,700 m, higher than the Plaza de Armas, so take the climb slowly if you’ve just arrived.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat; there’s almost no shade.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to visit Sacsayhuamán?
An hour and a half to two hours to explore the walls and the esplanade. If you walk from the Plaza de Armas, add an hour for the climb up and the walk back down.
Can I buy a ticket just for Sacsayhuamán?
No. Admission is included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket, full or partial; there’s no individual ticket.
