Translating as 'Cradle of Gold,' this remote Incan site (3050m) in the Vilcabamba mountain range over the Apurimac canyon bears a strong resemblance to Machu Picchu. It's enormous, covering 6 sq km, with roughly 30% of the site excavated. Ruins include whole buildings, a leveled ceremonial area and extensive aqueducts and terraces. It was occupied during the 15th and 16th centuries, roughly during the reign of Pachacutec and his son Tupac Yupanqui. Camping is free.
Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¼´Ê±¿ª½±'s must-see attractions
Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary
27 MILES
For many travelers to Peru, a visit to the lost Inca city of Machu Picchu is the whole purpose of their trip. With its awe-inspiring location, it is the…
26.42 MILES
An exquisite little Inca site along the Inca Trail; it's name is variously translated as ‘Forever Young,’ ‘To Plant the Earth Young’ and ‘Growing Young’ …
27.42 MILES
The Inca Trail ends after its final descent from the notch in the horizon called Intipunku (Sun Gate). Looking at the hill behind you as you enter the…
0.24 MILES
Discovered only in 2002 by archaeologist Percy Paz, these steep terraces on the backside of the ruins feature unique stonework resembling that found in…
27.03 MILES
This Quechua word loosely translates as the ‘Hitching Post of the Sun’ and refers to the carved rock pillar, often mistakenly called a sundial, at the top…
27.01 MILES
Behind and connected to the Principal Temple lies this famous small building. It has many well-carved niches, perhaps used for the storage of ceremonial…
Hut of the Caretaker of the Funerary Rock
26.96 MILES
An excellent viewpoint to take in the whole site. It’s one of a few buildings that has been restored with a thatched roof, making it a good shelter in the…
27.01 MILES
The ‘temple’ derives its name from the massive solidity and perfection of its construction. The damage to the rear right corner is the result of the…
Nearby Cuzco & the Sacred Valley attractions
0.09 MILES
The first area of the ruins you approach coming from the campground, these include the great terraces, topped by a plaza area that leads to a Hall of…
0.16 MILES
This huge leveled platform was likely a ceremonial center. Enjoy the spectacular 360-degree views of the Vilcabamba range from here.
0.17 MILES
On the truncated peak, follow the water channel up from the lower plaza to these ruins that include a niche house and carved upper fountain.
0.24 MILES
Discovered only in 2002 by archaeologist Percy Paz, these steep terraces on the backside of the ruins feature unique stonework resembling that found in…
0.26 MILES
A residential area with inferior building quality where the lower classes may have lived.
0.37 MILES
Visible as you approach the ruins from Marampata, these steep terraces are only partially excavated. They are worth exploring for a closer look at the…
0.39 MILES
While no one is sure about the use of these two walled-off buildings, their excellent structure and dominating location, off to one side of the usnu,…
12.09 MILES
The Inca site of Saihuite, 45km east of Abancay, has a sizable, intricately carved boulder called the Stone of Saihuite, which is similar to the famous…