The Best Inca Sites to Visit in Cusco
Cusco, once the capital of the Inca Empire, is home to some of the most impressive archaeological sites in Peru. Walking through this historic city feels like stepping back in time, as Inca ruins blend seamlessly with colonial architecture. Here are the must-visit Inca sites in Cusco (beyond Machu Picchu) that will transport you to the golden age of the empire. Good news: you can reach most of the best Inca Sites in Cusco by foot and they are nearby our Spanish school!
Inca Sites in Cusco
1. Sacsayhuamán – The Fortress Above Cusco
Perched on a hill overlooking the city, Sacsayhuamán is one of the most spectacular Inca constructions. This massive fortress is famous for its enormous stone walls, some weighing over 100 tons, perfectly fitted together without mortar. It was once a ceremonial and military complex, possibly used for religious rituals honoring Inti, the Sun God. The site offers breathtaking views of Cusco, making it a perfect spot for sunset visits. Today, it’s also the stage for Inti Raymi, the Festival of the Sun, every June 24.
📍 Where? A short taxi ride from Cusco’s main square “Plaza de Armas” or a 15-20 minute walk from the center / Amauta Spanish School. More: about Festivals in Peru.
2. Qorikancha – The Temple of the Sun
Before the Spanish arrived, Qorikancha (meaning “Golden Temple”) was the richest and most important religious site in the Inca Empire. Dedicated to Inti, its walls were covered in solid gold sheets, and its courtyard had golden statues of plants and animals. The Spanish later built the Santo Domingo Church over its ruins, but inside, you can still see the perfectly crafted Inca stonework that withstood earthquakes.
📍 Where? In the historic center of Cusco, just a short walk from Plaza de Armas.
3. The 12-Angle Stone – An Inca Engineering Marvel
Hidden along Hatun Rumiyoc Street, this perfectly carved 12-Angle Stone is a masterpiece of Inca masonry. The precision-cut stone, part of an ancient palace wall, is famous because it fits seamlessly with no mortar, showing the skill of Inca engineers.
📍 How to Get There: A 5-minute walk from Cusco’s Plaza de Armas, near the Archbishop’s Palace, and just around the corner of Amauta Spanish School.
4. San Blas Neighborhood – Hidden Inca Foundations
This charming artisan quarter has Inca stone walls hidden between colonial houses. Many buildings in San Blas – the neighborhood where Amauta Spanish School is located – are built on Inca foundations, and you’ll find remains of ancient Inca streets while wandering this bohemian neighborhood.
📍 How to Get There: A 10-minute uphill walk from Plaza de Armas. Amauta is in San Blas – aprox. 300 meters from the Plazoleta San Bals.
5. The Inca Roca Palace (Palacio del Inca Roca)
Now part of the Archbishop’s Palace, this was once the grand residence of Inca Roca, one of the empire’s rulers. Its massive stone walls and intricate construction demonstrate Inca architectural mastery.
📍 How to Get There: Located near the 12-Angle Stone, along Hatun Rumiyoc Street.
6. Tambomachay – The Water Temple
Known as the Baños del Inca (Baths of the Inca), Tambomachay is a fascinating site showcasing the Incas’ mastery of hydraulic engineering. It consists of stone terraces, aqueducts, and waterfalls that still function today. It is believed to have been a ceremonial site for water worship or a royal retreat for the Inca elite. The peaceful atmosphere and the sound of flowing water make it one of the most serene stops near Cusco.
📍 Where? 8 km (5 miles) from Cusco, accessible by bus, taxi, or a scenic hike.
7. Puka Pukara – The Red Fortress
Just a short distance from Tambomachay, Puka Pukara (meaning “Red Fortress”) is a smaller Inca site believed to have been a military checkpoint or a resting place for travelers entering Cusco. The name comes from the reddish hue of its stones, which glow beautifully at sunset. Though not as grand as Sacsayhuamán, it offers stunning views of the Andean landscape.
📍 Where? 10 minutes from Tambomachay, often visited together in a half-day tour (the city tour) or during a weekend walk nearby Cusco.
8. Q’enqo – The Sacred Labyrinth
Q’enqo is one of the most mysterious Inca sites near Cusco. It features carved tunnels, altars, and amphitheaters that were likely used for religious ceremonies and sacrifices. The site is believed to have had astronomical and ritualistic significance, with its intricate stone carvings aligned with the solstices. Exploring its underground chambers gives a fascinating glimpse into Inca spiritual practices.
📍 Where? 4 km (2.5 miles) from Cusco, often combined with a visit to Sacsayhuamán.
9. Inkilltambo – The Hidden Inca Sanctuary
For those looking to escape the crowds, Inkilltambo is an off-the-beaten-path Inca site that remains largely undiscovered by tourists. This ancient religious site features a series of terraces, tunnels, and carved stones that were once used for ceremonies. Surrounded by nature, it’s an excellent place for a peaceful walk and an authentic experience away from the main tourist trails.
📍 Where? Accessible via a short hike from Sacsayhuamán or by taxi.
Unmissable Inca Sites in the Sacred Valley
Also the Sacred Valley of the Incas is filled with Inca history, from impressive fortresses to sacred temples and hidden gems in the city’s streets. When exploring the lush landscapes of the Sacred Valley, these are some of the most incredible Inca sites you can visit while traveling in Peru.
10. Pisac – Inca Ruins with a View
Pisac is one of the most stunning archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley, featuring terraces, temples, and royal residences built into the mountainside. It’s believed to have been an agricultural and ceremonial center. The view over the valley from the top is breathtaking!
📍 How to Get There: 1-hour drive from Cusco, accessible by taxi, bus, or tour.
11. Ollantaytambo – The Last Inca Stronghold
Ollantaytambo is a living Inca town, with original stone streets, water channels, and one of the best-preserved Inca fortresses. The Temple of the Sun, massive terraces, and steep staircases make this an unforgettable stop. It was also the site of one of the few Inca victories against the Spanish.
📍 How to Get There: 1.5-hour drive from Cusco or a train stop on the way to Machu Picchu.
Why Visit These Inca Sites in the Sacred Valley and Cusco
Cusco and the Sacred Valley are filled with hidden Inca wonders beyond Machu Picchu. Whether you’re strolling through Cusco’s historic streets or exploring breathtaking ruins in the Sacred Valley after your Spanish lessons, each site tells a story of the Inca civilization’s brilliance. Make sure to include some of these stops in your Peru itinerary and/or Spanish immersion program for an unforgettable journey through history!
The Inca ruins in Cusco offer a deeper understanding of the Inca civilization, showcasing their engineering skills, spiritual beliefs, and way of life. Whether you explore them on foot, by bike, or with a knowledgeable guide, they are an essential part of any trip to Cusco.
💡 Want to explore Cusco’s Inca sites with expert guides? Contact us to book a tour or talk to us for a customized Spanish program so you can visit those some of these sites with your Spanish teacher and experience the magic of the Inca Empire firsthand!