Table of Content
Cusco has more to offer beyond Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. While thousands of tourists follow conventional routes, there are archaeological sites, lagoons, and natural formations that few people visit. Some are 30 minutes from the city, others require hikes of several hours.
The difference from mass-tourism circuits is notable: there are no street vendors, you can take as much time as you want to explore, and prices are more accessible. Many of these places don’t even appear in major travel guides.
This list includes options for different experience levels: from sites you can reach by car to treks that require good physical condition. All these Cusco tours share something: they show you a side of Cusco that most people miss.
1. Huchuy Qosqo
An Inca archaeological site at 3,600 meters above sea level with direct views of the Sacred Valley. You can reach it by hiking from Tambomachay (3 hours), which is organized as a Huchuy Qosqo full day tour, or you can start from Lamay if you prefer to go uphill instead of downhill. The construction combines carved stone with adobe, a less common technique at other sites. Access is free and there are almost no tourists during weekdays. Bring enough water because there are no services on site. You can camp if you have equipment.
2. Perolniyoc
A 100-meter waterfall that falls into a canyon surrounded by Inca terraces. It’s in Socma, a community 2 hours from Cusco via the Paucartambo road. You have two options: do the 2-hour trek to the base or see it from the viewpoint above. The best time is December to March when the waterfall has more flow. The rest of the year it’s still beautiful but with less water. Entrance S/10 paid to the community.
3. Waqrapukara
An Inca fortress at 4,300 meters above sea level built on rock formations that look like horns (hence the name in Quechua). From Santa Lucía it’s a 4-hour hike, so it’s organized as a Waqrapukara 1 day tour. The landscape is completely different from Machu Picchu: open puna with barren mountains and views of snow-capped peaks. The altitude is noticeable, so go prepared. Leave early to avoid the strong midday sun. Entrance S/20 which includes mandatory local guide.
4. Piuray Lagoon
30 minutes from Cusco on the way to Chinchero, it’s the lagoon where the city gets its drinking water. That’s why it’s clean and well maintained. You can kayak, fish for trout (with permission), or simply walk along the edge enjoying the tranquility. Several local restaurants prepare fresh trout. Open from 8am to 5pm. They don’t charge entrance but they do charge for activities like kayaking (S/20-30 per hour).
5. Ñaupa Iglesia
A cave with Inca carvings near Ollantaytambo, on a cliff above the river. The stone has perfectly straight cuts and there’s a “false door” carved into solid rock. You climb 45 minutes from the town of Pachar. The path is steep and with irregular steps. There’s no entrance fee but you must cross communal land (ask in Pachar out of respect). Theories about its function range from astronomical observatory to ceremonial temple.
6. Qenqo Chico
While everyone visits Qenqo Grande included in tours, this site is a 10-minute walk away but receives a fraction of visitors. It preserves underground channels carved in rock where the Incas performed rituals with chicha. There are internal chambers you can explore with a flashlight. It’s included in the Tourist Ticket circuit 1, but tour guides rarely mention it.
7. Temple of the Moon (Quillarumiyoc)
Ceremonial caves with niches and altars carved in Cerro Suchuna. You walk 45 minutes from Sacsayhuamán going up a marked trail. The rock formations have carvings that take advantage of the natural shapes of the stone. There are tunnels connecting different chambers. Go with a local guide or group because the trail has forks and it’s easy to get lost. Free entrance.
Practical Information
These places don’t have the infrastructure of major tourist circuits. Don’t expect clean bathrooms, stores, or restaurants nearby. Bring cash (several don’t accept cards), enough water, snacks, sunscreen, and layered clothing. At several there’s no cell signal. If you’re going alone to places like Waqrapukara or Perolniyoc, let someone know your plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a guide to visit these places? Only Waqrapukara requires a local guide as part of the entrance. For Ñaupa Iglesia and Temple of the Moon it’s highly recommended if you’re going alone because the trails aren’t well marked. The rest you can do on your own without problem.
Which is best to go with children? Piuray Lagoon is perfect: you arrive by car, it has basic services and quiet activities. Qenqo Chico also works well because it’s close to the city and the walk is short. Avoid Waqrapukara due to altitude and distance.
Can I visit them all with the Tourist Ticket? No. Only Qenqo Chico is included in the Tourist Ticket. Huchuy Qosqo and Temple of the Moon are free. Waqrapukara, Perolniyoc, and Ñaupa Iglesia charge separately. Piuray doesn’t charge entrance but does for activities.
What time of year is best to go? May to October (dry season) for Waqrapukara and Huchuy Qosqo because the trails are dry. December to March for Perolniyoc if you want to see the waterfall at maximum flow. Piuray, Qenqo Chico, and Temple of the Moon you can visit year-round.
How do I get to these sites without a tour?
- Huchuy Qosqo: collective van to Tambomachay from Cusco
- Perolniyoc: bus to Paucartambo, then taxi to Socma
- Waqrapukara: bus to Acomayo, then to Santa Lucía
- Piuray: taxi or collective van toward Chinchero
- Ñaupa Iglesia: train to Ollantaytambo, taxi to Pachar
- Qenqo Chico: taxi from Cusco (15 minutes)
- Temple of the Moon: taxi to Sacsayhuamán, then hike
Are they safe to visit alone? Piuray, Qenqo Chico, and Huchuy Qosqo are safe. For the others, better to go in a small group or with a guide. Not because of social insecurity but because of the risk of getting lost or injured on isolated trails with no help nearby.
What physical level do I need?
- Low: Piuray, Qenqo Chico
- Medium: Ñaupa Iglesia, Temple of the Moon, Perolniyoc (viewpoint)
- High: Huchuy Qosqo, Waqrapukara, Perolniyoc (base of waterfall)
Altitude is an important factor. If you’ve just arrived in Cusco, wait 2-3 days before doing Waqrapukara.
