SACSAYWAMAN. This immense ruin of both religious and military significance was built using megalithic limestone rocks, some of them weighing as much as 120 tons, The name itself can be translated as “speckled head” and some say that the city of Cusco was laid out in the shape of a puma, with Sacsayhuaman forming the head.

It was one of the most important wak'as (holy places) in the Incan Cusco. Many wak'as were based on naturally occurring rock formations. It was believed to be a place where sacrifices and mummification took place.

Means in Quechua “red fortress”, and it took this name because of the color of the stones used for its construction. It occupies a very strategic space over a natural mountain spur for facilitating observation and control over the valley of Cusco.

Tambomachay might have fulfilled an important religious function linked with water and the regeneration of the soil. It is calculated that it was built around 1500 BC, in close relation to Puca Pucara.

Manos de la Comunidad is an entertaining and culturally-rich stop. This popular artisan outpost is a budget-friendly place to experience alpacas and Andean culture. With no entry fee, visitors can marvel with the colorful textiles they spin using alpacas fiber and natural dies