Discover the authenticity of the Sacred Valley in Calca, a destination that retains its Andean essence away from tourist crowds. This provincial capital, sitting at an altitude of 2,928 meters, stands as an oasis of tranquility where ancestral traditions flow naturally between the sacred snow-capped mountains of Pitusiray and Sawasiray, the protective apus that have watched over these lands for millennia.
Here, where Quechua resonates in every corner and colorful garments paint the streets in celebration, you’ll find the most authentic experience of the Sacred Valley, complemented by healing hot springs and privileged access to one of the most fascinating archaeological sites: Huchuy Qosqo, the “little Cusco.”
Contents
History of Calca
The pre-Inca origins: the Kallkas
Before the arrival of the Incas, this territory was inhabited by the Kallkas, a people who settled in this privileged region of the Sacred Valley. Archaeological evidence reveals the presence of these original inhabitants who took advantage of the valley’s exceptional conditions to develop their agricultural and ceremonial activities.
The Inca conquest and the refuge of Wiracocha
It was the Inca Wiracocha who, in the early 15th century, conquered these territories and established his residence in Huchuy Qosqo, very close to Calca. According to colonial chronicles, these lands served as strategic agricultural fields and a refuge zone. When the Chancas threatened Cusco in 1438, Wiracocha escaped with his son, Inca Urco, and took refuge in Huchuy Qosqo, making Calca a witness to one of the most dramatic episodes in Inca history.
Pedro Cieza de León recorded in his chronicle “Señorío de los Incas” that the Inca, feeling tired and old, ordered the construction of palaces in the valley of Juch’uy Qosqo to retreat and recreate there, seeking to distance himself from the palace bustle of Cusco.
Resistance during the Spanish conquest
During the Spanish invasion in the 16th century, Calca became a strategic defense point for the army of the rebel Inca Manco Inca. This strategic position in the Sacred Valley made it a scene of resistance against the conquerors, demonstrating its military and symbolic importance for the Andean world.
Republican foundation
The province of Calca was officially created on June 21, 1825, by decree of the liberator Simón Bolívar. Previously, during the colonial period, it was known as “Villa de Zamora.” In 1898, the capital was elevated to city status by a law from Congress, enacted by President Nicolás de Piérola.
Andean geography and climate
Privileged location
Calca is located 50 kilometers from the city of Cusco, in the heart of the Sacred Valley, between Pisac and Urubamba. Its altitude of 2,928 meters above sea level provides a mild and pleasant climate, with temperatures ranging from 17°C to 23°C, making it one of the lower-lying areas in the Sacred Valley.
The sacred apus
The city is guarded by the imposing snow-capped peaks of Pitusiray (4,987 meters) and Sawasiray, considered among the most important sacred mountains or apus in the jurisdiction of Calca according to the Andean religious system. These apus are associated with the reproduction of food plants, so not only farmers from Calca invoke them but also those from distant places in the southern Peruvian area.
Main attractions
Huchuy Qosqo: the little Cusco
Just 5 kilometers from Calca lies one of the most fascinating archaeological complexes in the Sacred Valley. Huchuy Qosqo, meaning “little Cusco,” was the residence of Inca Wiracocha and represents one of the most sophisticated constructions of the Inca Empire.
Architectural features:
- Three-story building: the first two made of finely carved stone and the third of adobe
- Perfectly preserved agricultural terraces
- Qolcas (grain storage) that showcase the agricultural significance of the site
- 800-meter irrigation canal that supplied water to the site
- Unmatched panoramic view of the Sacred Valley
Access: You can walk from Lamay (2-3 hours) or from Tambomachay (8 hours) via original Inca paths. It is also part of the 3-day trek to Machu Picchu, considered one of the easiest routes to reach the Inca citadel.
Medicinal hot springs
Minas Moqo hot springs: Hot springs with therapeutic properties for treating rheumatic and skin diseases. These natural sulfurous waters have been used since ancient times by local communities.
Machacancha hot springs: Located in a recreational center, these waters have medicinal properties and temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C, ideal for relaxation and natural therapies.
San Pedro Apostle Church
This colonial church, built in 1686, represents one of the best examples of religious architecture in the Sacred Valley. Its colonial style features baroque decoration with a gold-leaf altar and silver plates, showcasing the influence of the Cusco school in its interior decoration.
Ancasmarka archaeological site
Located in the upper part of Calca, in the “Aqcha alta” sector, this complex features constructions from the Inca and pre-Inca periods, including terraces, platforms, and colcas. Although it is little visited by tourists, it holds significant historical value as an example of agricultural development in the region.
Authentic cultural experiences
Traditional festivities
Mamacha Asunta Festival (August 15): The most important celebration in Calca, characterized by dances, music, and an atmosphere of deep devotion that combines Catholic elements with ancestral Andean traditions.
Calca Anniversary (June 21): Coinciding with the winter solstice, this celebration presents the most indigenous atmosphere, with delegations from highland communities in the Sacred Valley participating with traditional dances and music. The costumes of the dancers and musicians create a more authentic atmosphere than other mestizo festivities.
All Saints (November 1-2): A traditional celebration divided between the Day of the Living and the Day of the Dead, where the Andean worldview on life and death is experienced.
Traditional gastronomy
Calca is famous for its picanterías, especially for “cuy al palo,” an emblematic dish prepared according to ancestral recipes. Also notable are the roasted pig and chiri uchu, ceremonial food that connects with the deepest traditions of the Andes.
Authentic community life
Farmers from nearby communities visit Calca in their colorful outfits and hats, maintaining Quechua as their main language. This cultural authenticity makes every visit a unique ethnographic experience, where it is possible to observe the continuity of millennia-old traditions.
How to get to Calca
From Cusco
Public transport: Buses and minivans leave from Puputi Street every 15 minutes to Calca. The journey takes 50 minutes and costs S/. 6-7.
Scenic route: The road ascends from Cusco, passing by the archaeological complexes of Qenqo, Tambomachay, and Puca Pucara, crosses a pass, and descends into the Sacred Valley through landscapes of crops and pastures.
Private transport: Taxi from Cusco (1 hour) at an approximate cost of S/. 70-100.
Connections in the Sacred Valley
From Calca, you can easily access:
- Pisac: 18 kilometers (20 minutes)
- Urubamba: 21 kilometers (25 minutes)
- Lamay: 5 kilometers (access to Huchuy Qosqo)
- Lares Valley: 3 hours (hot springs and traditional communities)
Why choose Calca?
Preserved cultural authenticity
Calca represents the most authentic experience of the Sacred Valley, where Andean traditions remain alive without tourist artifice. Here, you can experience the real life of Andean communities, their genuine festivities, and their daily relationship with nature and the sacred apus.
Tranquility away from mass tourism
As one of the lesser-known towns in the Sacred Valley, Calca offers the tranquility needed for a true connection with Andean culture. Its non-touristy environment allows for deeper and more meaningful experiences.
Strategic base for adventures
The location of Calca makes it an ideal starting point for:
- Trekking to Huchuy Qosqo and Machu Picchu
- Visits to traditional communities in the highlands
- Cultural immersion and ethnographic studies
- Therapies in natural hot springs
Ideal climate and lower altitude
At just 2,928 meters above sea level, Calca minimizes the effects of altitude sickness while maintaining the pleasant climate typical of the Sacred Valley. Its location in one of the valley’s lowest areas makes it a perfect refuge for travelers sensitive to altitude.