Sacsayhuamán: Tickets, Opening Hours, How to Get There and What to See
Sacsayhuamán: Tickets, Opening Hours, How to Get There and What to See
Sacsayhuamán is the most impressive Inca structure in Cusco and, for many travelers, the second big surprise of the trip after Machu Picchu. Its zigzag walls are built from giant stone blocks, some weighing more than 100 tons, fitted together without mortar with a precision that still amazes. It sits on a hill above the city, just 2 km from the Plaza de Armas.
Quick facts
- Altitude: about 3,700 m (12,140 ft), 300 meters above central Cusco.
- Opening hours: daily, roughly 7:00 am to 5:30 pm.
- Entry: there is no individual ticket. You need the Cusco Tourist Ticket: Partial Circuit I (S/70) or Integral (S/130).
- Time needed: 1.5 to 2 hours.
Which ticket you need
Sacsayhuamán is part of Circuit I of the Tourist Ticket, together with Q'enqo, Puka Pukara and Tambomachay:
| Ticket | Price | Valid for | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Partial Circuit I | S/70 | 1 day | Sacsayhuamán, Q'enqo, Puka Pukara, Tambomachay |
| Integral | S/130 | 10 days | All 16 sites, including the Sacred Valley |
If you are also visiting the Sacred Valley, the Integral is the better deal. We explain how to choose in our guide to the Cusco Tourist Ticket. Peruvians get a reduced national rate.
What to see at Sacsayhuamán
The zigzag walls
The main esplanade is lined by three tiers of zigzag walls about 400 meters long. The largest stone is more than 8 meters tall. Stand next to it for a photo: it is the best way to grasp the scale.
The esplanade (Chukipampa)
The large esplanade in front of the walls is where Inti Raymi, the Festival of the Sun, is staged every June 24. The rest of the year it is an open field where llamas often graze. More about the festival in our Inti Raymi guide.
Muyucmarca and the towers
At the top of the hill are the circular foundations of Muyucmarca, an ancient tower. The Spanish dismantled much of Sacsayhuamán to reuse its stones in Cusco's churches and mansions: what you see today is only part of what once stood here.
The Rodadero and the Inca's throne
Opposite the walls is the Rodadero, a rock formation polished by glaciers that Cusco's children have always used as a slide. Next to it are seats carved into the rock, known as the "Inca's throne", overlooking the whole esplanade.
The best view of Cusco
From the edge of the hill you can see the whole city with the Plaza de Armas in the center. At sunset it is one of the best viewpoints in Cusco.
Fortress or temple?
The Spanish described it as a fortress, and a key battle was indeed fought here in 1536 during Manco Inca's rebellion. But many archaeologists believe its main purpose was ceremonial: a great religious complex dedicated to the Sun, at the "head" of a city that, according to tradition, was laid out in the shape of a puma. It was probably both.
How to get to Sacsayhuamán
On foot from the Plaza de Armas
Walk up Calle Suecia or the San Cristóbal slope to San Cristóbal church and follow the signs. It is about 25-35 minutes of steep climbing. If you arrived in Cusco less than two days ago, take it very slowly because of the altitude (read our altitude sickness guide).
By taxi
A taxi from the center drops you at the entrance in 10-15 minutes. A good option if you want to save energy and walk back downhill.
On the City Tour
The most practical option. Our Cusco City Tour, from US$15, includes hotel pickup, transport and a professional guide to Qoricancha, Sacsayhuamán, Q'enqo, Puka Pukara and Tambomachay in one afternoon. The guide is what makes the difference: without context, Sacsayhuamán is just "big rocks". The Tourist Ticket and Qoricancha entry are paid separately. More details in our City Tour post.
Tips for your visit
- Go early or late in the afternoon: large groups arrive mid-morning.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat and water: there is no shade on the esplanade.
- Don't buy tickets from street resellers. Buy at the entrance or at the official offices.
- Combine it with the Cristo Blanco, a 10-minute walk away, with another great view of the city.
- Don't climb the walls: it is forbidden and damages the heritage site.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the entrance to Sacsayhuamán?
No individual ticket is sold. You need the Cusco Tourist Ticket: the Partial Circuit I costs S/70 and is valid for one day; the Integral costs S/130 and is valid for 10 days across 16 sites.
Can you walk to Sacsayhuamán?
Yes. From the Plaza de Armas it is a 25-35 minute climb via Calle Suecia or San Cristóbal. It is steep, so avoid doing it on your arrival day.
How long does it take to visit Sacsayhuamán?
Between 1.5 and 2 hours to see the walls, the esplanade and the viewpoint. The City Tour spends about an hour there with a guide.
Is Sacsayhuamán included in the City Tour?
Yes. Our Cusco City Tour from US$15 visits Qoricancha, Sacsayhuamán, Q'enqo, Puka Pukara and Tambomachay. The Tourist Ticket is paid separately.
