OVERVIEW
Sacsayhuamán is one of the Inca constructions that most astonishes tourists who, according to new hypotheses, point out that it would have been a very important ceremonial center and not a fortress.
Anyway, let’s see the traditional understanding about Sacsayhuaman. It would be a spectacular fortress built with huge carved rocks, united with absolute precision. Together with Machu Picchu and Choquequirao, it is undoubtedly one of the greatest architectural works of Tahuantinsuyo. But, in addition, it represents the undoubted constancy of the administrative capacity of the empire and its powerful logistical apparatus.
Its Quechua name means “hawk satisfied”. Therefore, it was the hawk that guarded the capital of the empire, because from the hill on which it was erected the whole city dominates. If, as is known, Cusco was designed in the shape of a lying puma, Sacsayhuamán would be its head, while the Koricancha would correspond to the feline’s genitals.
It is said that the work was initiated by Pachacútec and continued by Tupac Yupanqui, although some chroniclers point out that it was Huayna Cápac who gave the final touch. The Inca Garcilaso de la Vega tells that Apu Huallpa Rimachi was the principal architect and that Maricanhi, Acahuana Inca and Calla Cunchuy, took control of the works in succession.
Trip Summary
Highlights:
9am, or 2pm, we’ll pick our passengers up from their hotels, and then we’ll go to our ranch in Sacsayhuaman(10 minutes north of Cusco), there, our guide will give us the horse back riding instructions, then we’ll begin our tour, visiting the most important archaeological Inca sites close Cusco, like: Sacsayhuamán, kenko, Pucapucara, Tambomachay, after 3 hours riding, we’ll come back to Cusco.
- Choice of morning or afternoon departure
- Flexibility to customize your itinerary to your own preferences
- Ideal choice for families
Travel Details
- Duration: 1 Day
- Category: Cultural
- Departures: Daily Departures at 9:00am
Itinerary
We begin the ride taking a visit the following archaeological sites; Q’enqo, Temple of the Moon, Puca Pucara and Tambomachay. After 03 hours riding the return begins to Sacsayhuaman by the sector known as Zone X. Return to the city of Cusco where the tour ends.
- Professional tour guide
- Saddle and safety helmets
- Muleteer (goes to the care of horses)
- Mineral water or natural water
- Cookies, chocolate bar and fruit
- Transport by private car
- Gratuities (recommended)
- Entrance fees
- Ropa Abrigadora
- Mochila pequeña con objetos personales
- Cámara fotográfica
- Agua Mineral
- Bloqueador Solar