Cusco on the Cheap: Tambomachay to Cusco Walk (January 2026 Update)
Updated January 2026 – This self-guided hike remains one of Cusco’s best budget adventures, visiting four iconic Inca sites (Tambomachay, Pukapukara, Q’enqo, Sacsayhuaman) plus Christo Blanco viewpoint—all downhill after the start. Perfect for avoiding pricey tours while enjoying stunning views over the city.
Boleto Turístico (Cusco Tourist Ticket) – Required!
No major changes in 2026: You need this for entry to the four archaeological sites.
- Full Ticket: S/130 (~$38 USD) – 16 sites, valid 10 days (best value if exploring Sacred Valley too).
- Partial Circuit 1 (these four sites only): S/70 (~$21 USD) – valid 1 day.
- Students (10-17 or with valid ISIC/university ID): ~50% discount.
- Children under 10: Free.
Buy at COSITUC office (Av. El Sol 103, Cusco), online (limited availability), or at site entrances. No individual entries—must have a ticket.
Exchange Rate (Jan 2026)
~ 1 USD = S/3.36 (S/1 ≈ $0.30 USD).
Getting to Tambomachay (Start Point)
~8km uphill from Plaza de Armas.
- Cheapest (Public Transport): ~S/4-6 round-trip (buses/colectivos to Pisac route; hop off at Tambomachay). Flag “Señor del Huerto” or similar.
- Taxi: ~S/30-50 one-way (haggle; ~$9-15 USD).
- Walk Up: Free but strenuous (~2-3 hours uphill at altitude).
The Walk: Tambomachay → Cusco (Downhill ~8-10km)
Total time: 4-7 hours (depending on pace/exploration). Mostly gradual downhill on paved roads/paths with site detours.
- Tambomachay (“Inca Baths”) – Intricate water channels & fountains; possible ritual spa or outpost.
- Pukapukara (~300m walk) – “Red Fortress”; reddish stones glow at sunset; likely military viewpoint.
- Q’enqo (~4-5km downhill) – Zigzag carved channels; major ceremonial site with underground chambers.
- Christo Blanco (~1-2km) – Giant white statue overlooking Cusco; panoramic city views.
- Sacsayhuaman (~1km) – Massive zigzag walls (pronounced “sexy woman”); pre-Inca origins, epic stonework.
Finish: Steep stairs/path down to Cusco center.
Tips for 2026
- Altitude: Cusco ~3,400m – acclimatize, drink water/coca tea.
- Pack: Water, snacks, sunscreen, layers (weather varies), small change.
- Best Time: Dry season (May-Oct); early start beats crowds/heat.
- No Guide Needed: Sites self-explanatory; download offline maps.
- Alternative: Guided tour ~$50-60 USD if preferring transport/explanations.
Total DIY cost: ~$25-45 USD (ticket + transport). Epic views, history, and exercise—highly recommended!