Abode of the Gods Apukunaq Tianan
A unique artistic park near Cusco featuring intricate sculptures and panoramic valley views, offering a mystical experience.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Abode of the Gods Apukunaq Tianan
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique artistic park near Cusco featuring intricate sculptures and panoramic valley views, offering a mystical experience.
"It's amazing if you don't like it you're a lost soul lol, it's impossible really to describe this place, maybe just call it a work of art?"
🚗 Taxi Negotiation
Not all taxis go to the top. Negotiate a round-trip price or be prepared to find a driver willing to wait. :taxi:
⏳ Beat the Crowds
Visit early or late to avoid crowds and get better photos of the sculptures. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Heart of the Mountain
Inner chamber
Venture into the 'Heart of the Mountain' for a unique, mystical experience. An additional fee applies.

Intricate Sculptures
Throughout the park
Marvel at the detailed plaster sculptures and carvings by a local artist, showcasing unique artistic vision.

Panoramic Valley Views
Overlooks
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valley, offering a beautiful contrast to the art.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting There: Plan Your Ride
Timing is Key for Photos
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Taxi Negotiation
Not all taxis go to the top. Negotiate a round-trip price or be prepared to find a driver willing to wait.
:taxi:⏳ Beat the Crowds
Visit early or late to avoid crowds and get better photos of the sculptures.
:camerawithflash:💰 Extra Fee for Heart
The 'Heart of the Mountain' experience has an additional entrance fee.
:moneywithwings:👟 Comfortable Shoes
Wear comfortable shoes as there's some walking involved to explore the artistic site.
:athletic_shoe:Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Taxi Negotiation
Not all taxis go to the top. Negotiate a round-trip price or be prepared to find a driver willing to wait.
:taxi:⏳ Beat the Crowds
Visit early or late to avoid crowds and get better photos of the sculptures.
:camerawithflash:💰 Extra Fee for Heart
The 'Heart of the Mountain' experience has an additional entrance fee.
:moneywithwings:👟 Comfortable Shoes
Wear comfortable shoes as there's some walking involved to explore the artistic site.
:athletic_shoe:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Apukunaq Tianan to be a unique artistic park with interesting sculptures and beautiful valley views, offering a different experience from Cusco's historical sites. While some appreciate its artistic merit and mystical elements, others note its small size and potential for crowds, suggesting it might be a secondary visit after exploring major attractions.
"Fun day excursion outside of Cusco with a lot of fun photo opps and a beautiful panoramic view. Just fyi, we had two ubers drop us before finding one that would take us up there. Our uber ended up waiting for us to take us back for a renegotiated price."
xtremejlou
"As of December 2024, in our tour package, this location was included, and I would not waste my time. You can come on your own and probably eat food here ( I didn't do it), just a suggestion. The park is still under construction. It is quite small and can be explored in about 10min minutes. It gets crowded really quick, and it takes forever to take a picture. The sculptures, created by a local artist, it's all plastered. There are definitely better things to do in Cusco and go to some natural ruins thats included in the city tour ticket."
Luis De La Vega
"It's amazing if you don't like it you're a lost soul lol, it's impossible really to describe this place, maybe just call it a work of art?"
John West
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is by taxi or Uber. However, be aware that not all drivers are willing to go all the way up. It's recommended to negotiate a round-trip price with your driver, who can wait for you. Alternatively, some tour packages include this destination.
Yes, if you have a rental car, access is generally easy, and it offers flexibility in your visit.
Public transport is not a common or direct option. Taxis and private arrangements are the most practical ways to reach the site.
The journey from Cusco typically takes around 30-45 minutes by car, depending on traffic conditions.
Many hotels in Cusco can assist in arranging taxis or tours that include Apukunaq Tianan, often with pre-negotiated rates.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is an entrance fee for the park itself. Additionally, accessing the 'Heart of the Mountain' requires a separate, additional fee.
The main entrance fee covers the general park. The 'Heart of the Mountain' is an optional add-on with its own cost.
Tickets are typically purchased upon arrival at the site. It's advisable to check for any online booking options if available, though on-site purchase is common.
Opening hours can vary, but it's generally open during daylight hours. It's best to confirm current hours before your visit, especially if planning a late afternoon trip.
As of recent visits, parts of the park may still be under construction, but the main attractions are accessible.
📸 📸 Photography & Art
The site features unique plaster sculptures and carvings created by a local artist, often with themes related to crystals and energy.
Yes, it offers many unique photo opportunities with its sculptures and panoramic views. However, it can get crowded, making it challenging to get unobstructed shots.
Weekday mornings or late afternoons during the golden hour often provide better lighting and fewer crowds for photography.
Generally, photography is allowed throughout the park. However, always be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage.
The sculptures are notable for their intricate details and the artistic style of the local artist who created them.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Some reviews suggest that food might be available for purchase at the site, though it's not the primary focus.
Bringing your own snacks and water is generally a good idea, especially if you plan to spend a few hours exploring.
The site is located outside the main city, so dining options directly adjacent are limited. It's best to eat before or after your visit in Cusco.
If food is available, it's likely to be simple snacks or local fare. It's not a destination known for its culinary offerings.
It's more of a place for art and views. If you're hungry, consider it for a quick bite rather than a full meal.
🎫 💡 Onsite Experience
The park is relatively small and can be explored in about 10-30 minutes, depending on how long you spend admiring the sculptures and views.
This is a special chamber within the site that requires an additional fee to enter, offering a unique, possibly mystical, experience.
Opinions vary. Some find it a unique artistic experience, while others feel it's less significant than historical ruins. It depends on your interests.
It's described as a magical, unique place, a work of art, with an emphasis on crystals and their energy for some visitors.
Basic facilities are usually available, but it's always good to be prepared.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider it as a short excursion rather than a full-day activity. The panoramic views are also a nice bonus. Ensure children are supervised, and be prepared for the possibility of an additional fee for the 'Heart of the Mountain' if you decide to explore that area.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
To maximize your photographic potential, aim for weekday mornings or late afternoons to avoid crowds and capture the best light. The 'Heart of the Mountain' chamber also presents unique lighting and compositional possibilities.
🧘♀️ Spiritual & Wellness Seekers
While not a traditional archaeological site, it offers a contemporary space for reflection and connection with unique artistic expressions that some find spiritually uplifting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistic Vision of Apukunaq Tianan
Many of the sculptures are said to be related to crystals and their energies, appealing to those interested in spiritual or holistic themes. While some visitors may not personally connect with this aspect, they still appreciate the craftsmanship and the unique aesthetic. The park's relatively compact size means it can be explored quickly, but the detailed artistry invites closer inspection.
For those seeking a different kind of cultural experience in Cusco, Apukunaq Tianan provides a refreshing contrast to historical sites. It's a place where art, nature, and perhaps a touch of mysticism converge, offering a memorable and visually stimulating excursion.
Navigating Access and Transportation
To ensure a smooth experience, it's highly recommended to arrange a round-trip with your driver. This way, your driver will wait for you while you explore the site and then take you back to Cusco. Alternatively, booking a tour that includes Apukunaq Tianan can simplify transportation arrangements. If you prefer the freedom of a rental car, access is generally straightforward.
Understanding these transportation nuances can save you time and potential hassle, allowing you to focus on enjoying the unique artistic creations and scenic views that Apukunaq Tianan has to offer.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit