Puca Pucara
The ruins of Puca Pucara, about 4 miles (7 km) from Cusco and up the hill from Saksaywamán and Q’enqo, consist of fort walls, terraces, and staircases in the Incan style. Travelers will enjoy amazing views of the Cusco Valley and southern glaciers from the site.
Although not much is known about Puca Pucara, there is a theory that this site was constructed during the reign of Pachacuti, the ninth ruler of the Inca Empire.
There have been debates about Puca Pucara’s real function, but many believe that due to its position on a major road overlooking the Cusco Valley, it was at least in part used as a military base. It features, however, luxurious baths, canals, plazas, fountains, and separate rooms, so it may have been a tambo, or resting place, for military groups, hunters, travelers, and Incan nobility.
The buildings display fine stonework, and beneath the complex there are several chambers for visitors to explore. Strangely, the walls were built in very irregular shapes, with the stones stacked in an almost haphazard fashion; it may be that Puca Pucara was built in somewhat of a rush, perhaps because the military headquarters that it became were needed with haste.
Puca Pucara, which means “red fortress” in Quechua, is thought to be named for the red color its rocks take on at dusk. This change of color at sunset enhances the already breathtaking views of the surrounding valley and ruins.
Where to stay in Puca Pucara
From boutique lodges to luxury resorts, every Puca Pucara accommodation is hand-picked by our local insiders for location, comfort, and character.
Belmond Palacio Nazarenas Boutique Hotel
The Belmond Palacio Nazarenas is a boutique hotel in Cusco. The hotel is set in a former convent that has been beautifully restored into one of the city’s best hotels.
Hotel Wakapunku
Hotel Wakapunku is located just two blocks from Cusco’s main plaza. This boutique hotel is warm and inviting.
Inkaterra La Casona Cusco
Inkaterra La Casona Cusco is an exquisite hotel in central Cusco. Set within a 16th-century colonial mansion, Inkaterra La Casona is easily one of the best hotels in Cusco.
Belmond Hotel Monasterio Cusco
The Belmond Hotel Monasterio is found in Cusco, Peru. This beautiful and historic hotel is centrally located in Cusco.
Sueños del Inka
Sueños del Inka puts you steps from some of the most important historic sites in Cusco, where you’ll see many monuments to the culture clash between the Spanish and the Inca.
Tierra Viva Cusco Plaza
Tierra Viva Cusco Plaza is centrally located in Cusco, Peru. This hotel is cozy and set within a remodeled colonial house.
JW Marriott Hotel Cusco
A 5-star hotel in the heart of historical Cusco, the JW Marriott Hotel Cusco offers architecturally breathtaking accommodations very close to the main attractions of this important city.
Cusco Plaza II Saphy
The Cusco Plaza II is a hotel located just three minutes from the Plaza de Armas in Cusco, Peru. The hotel is set within a refurbished colonial home and offers guests a complimentary breakfast each day.
Hotel Novotel Cusco
Hotel Novotel is located in the historic center of Cusco. This hotel is contemporary and has an excellent breakfast buffet.
Hostal Cusco Plaza I Nazarenas
Located in central Cusco, Hostal Cusco Plaza I is the ideal home base for an exploration of the imperial city of the Inca. This hotel is as cozy on the inside as it is bustling and exciting on the outside.
Sonesta Posada del Inca Cusco
Sonesta Posada del Inca is located just a few steps away from Cusco’s main square. With first-class lodging and authentic Peruvian hospitality, this hotel offers travelers an excellent choice in the heart of Cusco.
Casa Andina Cusco Premium Hotel
Casa Andina Cusco Private Collection is located in a beautiful 18th-century house in Cusco. The hotel has a lovely layout, comfortable rooms and a central location.
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Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
