Sacsayhuaman, Cusco

Marvel at the walls of Sacsayhuaman, an ancient fortified complex constructed of huge, megalithic stones. Although the wildly varying shapes and sizes of boulders used for the dry stone walls may give the impression of haphazard construction, each piece was carefully cut to fit tightly with the adjacent stones without the use of mortar. The Killke culture built the first sections of the wall around 1100 CE, and the Inca later expanded it further in the 13th century. Within the walls, explore the ruins of many buildings, storage rooms, a large plaza, and various sites of ceremonial or religious purpose. The complex sits at an altitude of 3,701 m (12,142 ft) and offers many commanding views of the surrounding mountains. The easiest way to visit is to arrange a tour from nearby Cusco. For travelers who use our international travel planner, Cusco holidays become easier to arrange, with trips to the Sacsayhuaman and other attractions mapped out and timetabled.