Top 3 Overlooked Sites in Cusco

Top 3 Overlooked Sites in Cusco – The Cusco City is one of the most popular cities to visit in Peru (in fact, it’s arguably the most popular) and with good reason too – it’s a gateway to many an adventure in this amazing country thanks its cross-country connectivity and almost every trip to Peru should definitely include Cusco in its itinerary.

As amazing as Cusco is used for a hub, there are other amazing sights to see in and around Cusco, which can often be overlooked for shinier sights like Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca – not least of all the stunning Inca ruins within very close proximity to the city. Some of the most overlooked sites in Cusco are listed below:

Top 3 Overlooked Sites in Cusco

Tambomachay.

the water temple. It consists of a series of aqueducts, canals and waterfalls that run through terraced rocks, the Incas were incredible architects. So much so, that the function of this site remains uncertain to this day. Many archeologists believe it may have served as a military outpost guarding the approaches to Cusco; it could have been a temple that venerated the gods or even a spa resort for the Incan political elite.

Puka Pukara.

This place is made of large walls, terraces, and staircases and played a large part in defending the people of Cusco and the Inca Empire from invaders. It most likely received its name from the reddish color that the structure gives off at dusk, truly a remarkable sight. This military architecture also functioned as an administrative center.

Qenko (or Quenqo).

This area is home to one of the largest Huacas (holy places) in the Cusco Region. Many Huacas were based on naturally occurring rock formations. It was believed to be a place where sacrifices and mummification took place, you may even catch a glimpse of tomb like structures along the walls and cliff faces. It really makes you wonder just how ingenious the Inca were back then.

Those are just three of many often overlooked sites in Cusco, but you can be sure that there are many more. If you want to know anything more about Peru, Cusco and Machu Picchu Travel, check out the rest of our blog and be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for our special packages.