Pikillaqta Archaeological Park
Discover Pikillaqta, a vast pre-Inca Wari city with impressive long walls and a unique layout, offering a peaceful historical journey.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful exploration
Pikillaqta Archaeological Park
Best Time
Peaceful exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Pikillaqta, a vast pre-Inca Wari city with impressive long walls and a unique layout, offering a peaceful historical journey.
"A peaceful and underrated site, very different from other Inca ruins, with great views."
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Tour
Wander off the main paths to discover hidden gems and appreciate the full scale of this vast site.
🏛️ Appreciate Pre-Inca Design
Notice the distinct architecture, like long straight walls, different from later Inca ruins.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Wari Architecture
Marvel at the long, straight walls and vast layout of this pre-Inca city, a testament to Wari ingenuity.

Scenic Valley Views
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valley and nearby lake from various vantage points.
Pre-Inca History
Explore a significant sacred site that whispers tales of a sophisticated civilization before the Inca empire.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for a Serene Experience
Understand the Wari Legacy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Tour
Wander off the main paths to discover hidden gems and appreciate the full scale of this vast site.
🏛️ Appreciate Pre-Inca Design
Notice the distinct architecture, like long straight walls, different from later Inca ruins.
📸 Capture the Scale
The 'Peruvian Great Wall' comparison is striking; capture its grandeur.
🏞️ Enjoy the Serenity
Embrace the quiet atmosphere and stunning valley views, a peaceful contrast to busier sites.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Tour
Wander off the main paths to discover hidden gems and appreciate the full scale of this vast site.
🏛️ Appreciate Pre-Inca Design
Notice the distinct architecture, like long straight walls, different from later Inca ruins.
📸 Capture the Scale
The 'Peruvian Great Wall' comparison is striking; capture its grandeur.
🏞️ Enjoy the Serenity
Embrace the quiet atmosphere and stunning valley views, a peaceful contrast to busier sites.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Pikillaqta is praised as a peaceful and underrated archaeological site, offering a distinct pre-Inca perspective with its long, straight walls and vast layout. Visitors appreciate the lack of crowds, allowing for a more serene exploration of the Wari civilization's impressive architecture and the scenic valley views. It's considered a valuable stop for history enthusiasts seeking a quieter experience.
"Pikillaqta was a peaceful and underrated site. It is very different from the other Inca ruins, with long straight walls and a large layout. You can see how the Wari people built this city before the Inca came. It feels quiet and open, with great views of the valley and lake nearby.
There were very few people when we visited, which made it more enjoyable. If you are interested in history and like visiting places without crowds, this one is worth the stop."
River - Glad or Mad Australia
"Walked settlement built by the Huari culture in a Scenic setting. Long rows of rectangular courtyard structures surrounded by a wall. Some view points."
Thorsten Thomas Maier
"It's very interesting to see the difference in the architecture of this pre Inca civilization. It's amazing how vast the site is. If you went without a tour, I'm sure you could find some interesting stuff uphill. It was fine with a tour as well."
David Rumptz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pikillaqta is part of the South Valley tours from Cusco, often combined with Tipon and Andahuaylillas. You can hire a private taxi or join an organized tour. Many tours depart from Cusco and include transportation to Pikillaqta and other sites in the valley.
While less common, it's possible to reach the general area via local buses heading towards Sicuani, but you would likely need to arrange local transport from the nearest stop to the archaeological park itself. Joining a tour is generally more convenient.
The travel time to Pikillaqta from Cusco is typically around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and the specific route taken by your tour or taxi.
Yes, you can visit Pikillaqta independently by hiring a taxi or using local transport. However, a guided tour can provide valuable historical context about the Wari civilization.
Yes, there are usually parking areas available for tour buses and private vehicles near the entrance of the archaeological park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, an entrance ticket is required for Pikillaqta. It is often included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turistico del Cusco), which covers multiple sites in the region.
Tickets can typically be purchased at the entrance to the park or as part of the comprehensive Cusco Tourist Ticket, which can be bought at the official tourist information offices in Cusco.
Pikillaqta generally follows standard archaeological park hours, usually opening in the morning and closing in the late afternoon. It's best to confirm exact hours with your tour operator or local tourist information.
If you plan to visit multiple sites in the Sacred Valley and Cusco region, the Cusco Tourist Ticket is usually cost-effective and includes entry to Pikillaqta.
Discounts may be available for students, children, and sometimes for citizens of Andean communities. Check the official Boleto Turistico del Cusco website for details.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Allocate at least 1 to 2 hours to explore Pikillaqta thoroughly, allowing time to appreciate its scale and unique architecture.
Yes, Pikillaqta is a vast site with avenues and foundations that are great for walking. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be on uneven terrain.
Guided tours are often available, especially if you arrive with an organized group. A guide can significantly enhance your understanding of the Wari culture and the site's history.
The terrain is mostly flat with some gentle inclines. You'll be walking on ancient stone foundations and pathways. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
Basic restroom facilities may be available near the entrance, but it's advisable to use facilities before arriving or carry your own supplies.
📸 📸 Photography
The long, straight avenues offer a striking perspective, reminiscent of the 'Great Wall of China.' Capture the vastness of the settlement and the surrounding valley views.
Yes, photography is generally allowed throughout Pikillaqta. However, always be respectful of the historical site and avoid using flash photography on any delicate structures if present.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a beautiful golden hour glow that enhances the ancient stone structures.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or your tour operator before flying a drone to ensure compliance with any restrictions.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views and long avenues. A telephoto lens can be useful for details or distant landscape shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities are limited. The site is relatively flat and easy to walk, making it manageable for younger children. Consider a guided tour to keep older kids engaged with stories of the Wari people, making the history come alive in a way that textbooks can't.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Visiting Pikillaqta independently allows you to control your spending and time. The site's peaceful nature means you won't feel pressured to rush, and the historical significance offers immense value for the ticket price. Pack your own lunch to save on dining costs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Wari Civilization: A Pre-Inca Powerhouse
Visiting Pikillaqta offers a unique opportunity to understand the evolution of Andean societies. The Wari were instrumental in consolidating power and spreading their influence across a vast territory, laying groundwork that the Inca would later build upon. The sheer scale of Pikillaqta, with its numerous rectangular courtyard structures, suggests it was a significant administrative or ceremonial center.
It's fascinating to see how different these structures are from the Inca's more intricate stonework, providing a crucial glimpse into the diverse history of Peru. The site's relative quietness allows for a more contemplative experience, where you can truly imagine life in this ancient Wari city.
Exploring Pikillaqta: What to Expect
As you wander through the site, you'll encounter numerous stone foundations and avenues that invite exploration. The scenic setting adds to the appeal, with opportunities to enjoy great views of the surrounding valley and a nearby lake. The lack of crowds at Pikillaqta is frequently highlighted by visitors, making it a peaceful and often underrated stop on a South Valley tour.
Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking on uneven, ancient surfaces. While tours are common, the site is also accessible for independent exploration, allowing you to discover its vastness at your own pace.
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