Inkilltambo, a very special place in the Tambomachay valley

The archaeological center of Inkilltambo or Inkacárcel in Cusco was a sanctuary (Huaca in the Quechua language) during the Inca period, has been carved on an immense igneous rock – granite with a total of 5 hornacins (3 outside the immense rock and 2 carved to the al interior), at the top there are several anthropo-morphological figures in high relief and finally the whole shrine is surrounded by andens, aqueducts, drainage systems, etc.

Etymology

The word Inkilltambo comes from two Quechua words: Inkill means garden or flowery place and the word Tambo or Tampu means inn. This toponym literally describes the physical shape of this site.

History

According to the writings left by the first chroniclers who arrived in Cusco, Inkilltambo was built during the reign of Inca Wiracocha between the years 1420 – 1438 DC. Later when the Inca Pachacuteq — son of Wiracocha inherits the political title of his father he will give it much more importance increasing the size of the complex to further deepen the Andean polytheistic religion.

Location

This archaeological site is located in the district of San Sebastian (within the archaeological park of Saqsayhuaman).

Architecture

In principle, Inkilltambo was built following the rustic style. However, after the ascension to power of Emperor Pachacutec, a fine style was used that harmonized with the abundant stones of the sector as well as the water sources that exist there.

Its function was that of 'huaca' to worship water. For this purpose, enclosures were built with niches (today there are only five left) and water channels that supplied the terraces supported by enormous stone walls.

Today only the bases of the main buildings remain, as well as the main paths and stone stairs. It is worth noting the neatness of the platforms and the channels that supply them with water.

Inkilltambo also has a finely carved main temple. Food was stored in colcas (warehouses). In the squares (fields) the local settlers met.

Restoration

Between 2015 and 2016, the Ministry of Culture made a million-dollar investment (almost 5 million Soles) to put this archaeological complex in value through the restoration under the charge of archaeologist Marisa Quispe Cuno. During the reclamation period agricultural footpaths, irrigation canals, stone structures, retaining walls, staircases, corridors, Inca paths, etc. were restored.

Places to visit in this archaeological complex:

La Huaca (immense rock configurations carved on the same)
Scores of andenes with agricultural and ceremonial purposes
Water canals for agricultural irrigation and for consumption
Trapezoidal horns (there are five in total)
Tunnels carved in the Huaca
Inca roads
Ceremonial squares
Stairs
Constructions for storing food or Qolqas in the Quechua language
Ceremonial courtyards or Kallankas in the Quechua language
Indigenous communities that currently still live in the vicinity of this place
Crystalline river of Inkilltambo

When to visit this place?

You can do it preferably in dry season, that is from April to December; the rest of the months it rains quite a bit.

Are there restaurants in this place?

Well, we comment to you that yes, at the top of this archaeological complex there is a traditional food restaurant; however, they may not cater some days, so we recommend you always bring a snack or snacks.

How to get to Inkilltambo?

On own account on public transport

Head to the bus stop located on Recoleta Avenue (above or behind Rosaspata market); at this stop you take the collectives of the company Inka Express (green buses). This stretch of journey is 15 minutes and you will only pay 1 Sol.

Then proceed to drop you off at the Shop stop and walk up to the entrance gate where you will have to note prior presentation of your National Identity Document or Passport.

Then you will start walking down a super beautiful road with all the signage, as you progress the road splits in two, take the road that is at the top.

The hike from the access gate to Inkilltambo lasts approx. 1 hour (especially if traveling as a family)

How much does it cost to go on your own?

Admission to Inkilltambo is completely free for everyone, whether they are national or foreign tourists.

The only expense (optional) to go on your own is transportation. The public transport buses to the sector of the Temple of the Moon or the southern zone of Sacsayhuaman have a cost of 1 Peruvian sol (0.3 dollars, approximately).

Are there tours?

Tours to Inkilltambo are not very popular among tourists visiting Cusco.

Very few tourism agencies offer this type of service. One of the few tours offers a bike tour through Inkilltambo. Prices vary from 15 to 30 dollars per person (ask directly to the tourism agency of your choice).

What is the route to Inkilltambo?

If you go on foot by public transport, the walk is very smooth, the route is safe, signposted and super preserved.

Recommended for:

People who like to visit archaeological sites crowded with tourists
People looking for free places to visit
Families who wish to spend pleasant moments in the countryside
People who like to walk or bike

What to take?

Good shoes (non-slip)
Snacks or snacks
Water
Waterproof
Gorras
Glasses for sunglasses
Sun blockers

Tip: You can also bring your pet, we saw that there are no restrictions for four-legged friends; this fact is very important because if you visit other archaeological sites such as Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Tambomachay, etc You will not be allowed to access the place with your pet.

Other nearby tourist attractions

During your visit to Inkilltambo you can also get to know the following tourist attractions in Cusco:

The Temple of the Moon – Set of stones where a mysterious cavern stands out which, according to the belief of the inhabitants, symbolized fertility. Admission to this place is free. It is located just 2 kilometers on foot from Inkilltambo, approximately.
The Kallachaka – This Inca construction has a circular pyramid shape where religious ceremonies were held. The area has Inca trails, sets of platforms, stone banks and beautiful landscapes. Admission is free. It is located about 5 kilometers on foot from Inkilltambo, approximately.
Qenqo – This archaeological site has mysterious constructions such as tunnels, an amphitheater, a small Intihuatana (sundial) and an underground room with a ceremonial table where sacrifices were probably made. It is 5 kilometers (on foot) from Inkilltambo, approximately. The entrance ticket is the Cusco Tourist Ticket that costs 70 Peruvian soles and includes Sacsayhuaman, Pucapucara and Tambomachay.
Sacsayhuaman – The famous archaeological site of Sacsayhuaman stands out for its immense walls with stones weighing more than 120 tons. It was a religious center that served as a fortress during the wars between the Incas and the Spanish in the 16th century. It is located 5 kilometers walk from Inkilltambo. The entrance is with the Tourist Ticket of Cusco.

Best Tours in Peru

Many are the routes that take you to Machu Picchu, but none is like the Inca Trail Tours, the most famous pedestrian path in the Americas. After flying from the capital of Perú, Lima, you will arrive in Cusco to walk for four days along a path through forests and dense fog, millenary stone steps and discovering the ruins of ancient fortifications and Inca cities, and all the time enjoying majestic views.

If you want to visit Machu Picchu, we recommend you to book your Machu Picchu Ticket in advance, so you will enjoy your Vacation in Machu Picchu without any problem.

Edwin Caviedes Profesional guide

Edwin Caviedes is the founder and manager of Tierras Vivas, a company that benefits native people communities.

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