Inca Attractions in Peru |
One of the main reasons for visiting Peru is the fact that there are so many Inca ruins and trails to follow and explore. These ruins tell the tale of a mighty and intelligent people who were technologically as advanced as the ancient Egyptians.
The tourist destinations that will appeal to those interested in the Incas and their empire are mainly located in and around Cusco, Ollantaytambo and Pisac. From there you can catch a plane, boat or car to take you to see of the most wondrous sights in the world.
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Cusco: The ancient capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco is the departure point for trips to the Inca city and castle of Machu Picchu are taken. It lies in the heart of the Andes Mountains at an altitude of 11,000 feet. It was the capital of the Inca Empire for a a relatively short time, there are still relics and imprints to be found in the city. Cusco is also the starting point of the famed Inca Trail which eventually leads to Machu Picchu. The trail in itself is an adventurous and rewarding trail for all trekking and hiking enthusiasts. Another plus of the trail is that it passes through the Sacred Valley which was the heart of the Inca Empire. The trail winds through the Andes Mountains and takes you to incomparable Inca ruins.
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Ollantaytambo: In the heart of the Sacred Valley lies Ollantaytambo, home of the Inca elite. It boasts the Ollantaytambo Fortress which was used for worship and the study of astronomy by the Incas. The rising terrace walls that gave the Spanish Conquistadors so much trouble in conquering the heart of the Sacred Valley are also a beautiful reminder of the might of this tribe. At the top of the Fortress you will also find the Temple of the Sun which still bears some faint Inca carvings. The ruins also contain the Baños del la ñosta (Princess Baths) where a carved Inca head can be seen on one of the surrounding cliffs.
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Pisac: Also situated in the Sacred Valley, Pisac’s ruins are some of the most spectacular.
Together Cusco, Ollantaytambo and Pisac provide a deeper insight into the life and times of a great nation – the Incas.