8 Free Inca Ruins in Cusco | A Self-Guided Hiking Tour

Cusco Peru and the surrounding valleys are home to an impressive amount of Inca ruins, hidden gems that are scattered along the towering hillsides. Thousands of tourists briefly flock to the Imperial City of Cusco to acclimate for the country’s most famous site of Machu Picchu, but few explore the many sacred treasures that lie within the city itself. Yes, there are a wide range of free Inca ruins in Cusco that are not included on the popular Cusco Tourist Ticket. The best part is that many of these sites are completely empty and authentic, providing an “untouched and special” experience.

These Inca ruins in Cusco are easily accessible from the bustling city itself, only a quick hike into the mountains

The Inca sites on this self-guided hiking tour are different than the well-known Archaeological Parks of Cusco, but it does pass by the famous site of Sacsayhuamán and Q’enqo. For this reason, those visitors who wish to skip Circuit 1 of the Boleto Turístico Cusco may prefer this intrepid and worthwhile hike. Better yet, add in this half day hike while acclimating for Machu Picchu.

Lace up your boots, download the map, and let’s explore some incredible and free Inca ruins in Cusco.

Table of Contents

Disclosure: This is part of my Hikes & Adventures series, which means these treks can be strenuous and challenging. These are my experiences and I am not an expert. Please have all the proper equipment, verify the weather conditions, use professional resources, do your own research, be mindful of constantly changing trail conditions, and take into consideration your own physical abilities and/or limitations. These guides are for entertainment purposes only. Please see my full disclosure for more information here.

• Map & Overview of Self-Guided Hiking Tour | Free Inca Ruins in Cusco
• Starting Point: Mesa Redonda
• Tour Highlights: Inca Ruins in Cusco
• Ending Point: Cusco’s Plaza de Armas
• Final Thoughts | Free Inca Ruins in Cusco

Map & Overview of Self-Guided Hiking Tour of Free Inca Ruins in Cusco

Follow along with this map that highlights many of the free Inca ruins in Cusco and other worthwhile points of interest.

⁉️ If downloading the map, please verify that the map is correct and follows the waypoints. Oftentimes, there are daily updates to the site, map platforms, and other external issues that may cause a bug in downloading. Be mindful that this map is solely for entertainment purposes. Always hike responsibly and respect the mountains by following a no-trace philosophy, avoid hiking alone, be conscious of the weather and personal limitations, and do not stray from the visible trail.

Overview of Free Inca Ruins | Day Hike in Cusco

Mileage distances are rounded to the nearest quarter of a mile.

• Mesa Redonda to Cusco’s Plaza de Armas: 8.75 Miles
• Self-Guided Trail Logistics
  • Starts at the park of Mesa Redonda and ends at the Cusco Plaza de Armas
• Difficulty: Moderate for the altitude and lack of signage
• Duration: 5 – 7 hours, Dependent on how long you explore each site, etc.
• Day Trip Packing Essentials:
  • Plenty of Water
  • Snacks & Lunch, there many places to enjoy a picnic!
  • First-Aid Kit
  • Swiss army knife
  • Good pair of hiking shoes (ankle support is key)
  • During rainy season, a lightweight rain jacket
• There are no official Trail Markers, but there are designated paths.
  • The Inca sites have most oftentimes have a red and white signage signage board.
• The following route can be hiked any time of the year. 
  • During the rainy season, be prepared for muddy paths.
• There is little shade coverage along this route.
  • Leave early to avoid the powerful Andes sun and enjoy the free Inca ruins in Cusco

➯ Hey… don’t forget your Travel Insurance! I love SafetyWing

Important Safety Information About This Cusco Day Hike Itinerary

Before tackling this hike, it’s important to be informed of some recent safety issues that have recently come to light in Cusco over the past few years. This free hiking tour passes by and includes a stop at the Temple of the Moon. Sadly, near the Temple of the Moon, there have been recent robberies via knife and gunpoint. 

Women should especially be mindful, as there have been reported rapes in the nearby caves. Unfortunately, this area should be avoided at all costs at dusk and at night. Be mindful and always take the necessary safety precautions before attempting this day hike itinerary.

Psst… Traveling solo and want to find a hiking buddy? Join the Free Cusco Hike Clubs Facebook Page!

I have hiked these trails multiple times, and have never personally had an issues, but for precautionary reasons, it’s always better to hike with at least one other person.

☛ Cusco Trekking Tips & More Cusco Treks

Starting Point: Mesa Redonda

This Cusco day hike adventure begin at the local spot of Mesa Redonda. This is the first Inca ruin in Cusco this self-guided hiking tour passes, but it definitely won’t be the last!

Remember | There is not much shade along the route. Try to leave early before 8:00 a.m.

Mesa Redonda is a nice and enjoyable walk from the San Blas neighborhood. If you don’t want to hike, it’s possible to take a taxi or a city bus straight to the main entrance of the free section of Sacsayhuamán Archaeological Park. Always negotiate with the taxi driver before entering the taxi. A fair price should only be a few soles.

Bus Logistics | Take the Inka Express Cusco City Bus, a green and white city bus | Catch it near near the San Pedro Market | Cost: 1 PEN (25¢ USD)

After enjoying the small park, continue past Mesa Redonda. Soon after, look to the left. There is a large staircase that leads to another large rock known as Señor de Tetecaca. This interesting rock was once used by the Incas, but now has a cross. Locals can oftentimes be seen here leaving offerings and praying at the shrine. If taking the bus or taxi, you’ll skip Señor de Tetecaca. From this spot there are very nice views of Cusco.

After the rock, exit at the fence and take a right. This road leads all the way to the main entrance of the free section of Sacsayhuamán Archaeological Park.

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Self Guided Tour Highlights | Free Inca Ruins in Cusco

This is the official trail head to discover some of the best free Inca ruins in Cusco!

There is a small entrance gate in front of the white sign Archaeological Park sign. The gatekeeper station will be on the left hand side. You may be asked to register and show your passport at the gatehouse. There are a few tiendas on the right for last minute snacks and beverages.

Entrance into the Sacsayhuamán Archaeological Park

This section of the Sacsayhuamán Archaeological Park is oftentimes only visited by locals. This part of the park is free. This is a favorite local spot among Cusqueños (people from Cusco). In the park, see adults playing soccer, children playing a top of ruins, locals picnicking next to the river, and on sunny days women doing their laundry.

There are some great views of Inca terraces and “La Torta.”

Cross the wooden river bridge and turn to the right. On the left hand side of the bridge, notice an unusual round structure built into a cave. This is actually a Spanish Colonial Kiln used to make terracotta roof shingles.

Distance from Mesa Redonda | 1.5 Miles

The Cake “La Torta”

Remember that cool “cake” that you saw when you first entered the park. Head over and check it out! Start the gradual climb up to the top of the cake. You’ll pass through those lovely terraces. Once at the top, appreciate those incredible views of Cusco, the surrounding Inca ruins, and the small river that trickles through the valley.

There are some nearby remnants of ruins next to the La Torta that are quite interesting. They appear to be built into the caves.

Distance from Mesa Redonda | 2.25 Miles

When ready, head back down the main path and cross the bridge again. Make a right hand turn onto a distinct path and continue towards Inkilltambo, one of the most underrated Inca ruins in Cusco.

Inkilltambo

Keep following the river. Notice another Spanish kiln ruin along the path. Soon, you’ll notice a large Inca site on the right hand side. Welcome to Inkilltambo!

Cross the little footpath bridge and explore this worthwhile site. There is actually a circuit within the park that conveniently twists and turns you through the sacred site. Find many signs (in Spanish) that explain possible theories as to what these Inca ruins in Cusco were used for.

☛ Travel Tip | Love this Inca site? Don’t miss these 35+ Inca ruins in Peru

The park has an inviting Inca road, multiple terraces, and remnants that appear to be used for sacred ceremonies. When ready, recross the small bridge and get back on to the original footpath. This time, head right to continue on this self- guided walking tour of Inca ruins in Cusco. Important, keep the river to your right-hand side.

Distance From Mesa Redonda | 3.5 Miles

River Break

Less than a half a mile down the path, the trail will come to a wooden bridge. This makes a tranquil spot to rest, snack, picnic, and drink some water. If you have a water filter, replenish from the stream. Do not cross the bridge. Instead, keep it to on your right. Walk a little bit further and start to look for an uphill path to the left. Begin the uphill climb to a serious epic viewpoint!

Distance From Mesa Redonda | Just Under 4 Miles

Inkilltambo 360° Viewpoint

Follow the trail which has an uphill ascent. There should be a clay fence on the left with cactus sprouting out of the top of it. Keep climbing, yeah it can be steep, but those views just keep on getting better! Eventually, look for a wooden stump-like fence, which will be on the left hand side. It’s strung together with a loose barbwire. There is a section of the fence that has been pushed to the ground. Take a left and follow the path until you reach the edge of the cliff. You will pass by some small remains of more Inca ruins.

Continue on the path and reach a spectacular 360 viewpoint°. This epic views includes stunning views of Inkilltambo, the lush valley, the towering mountain of Ausangate, and even more Inca ruins in Cusco that are located on the next hillside. Check out all the surrounding mountains. Breathtaking! (Literally, stop here and catch your breath!)

Distance From Mesa Redonda | 5 Miles

Temple of the Moon “Templo de la Luna”

After those views, continue on the path towards one of the better known free Inca ruins in Cusco, the Temple of the Moon. The Temple of the Moon is another interesting site with unusual ruins and some fascinating caves surrounding it.

After climbing around the Temple of the Moon, keep it to your left. Start looking for the large boulder rocks on the right hand-side. Turn right on a small footpath which leads you towards the boulders. Pass by a large “carved rock.” Keep following this path until you see the magnificent Temple of the Fly.

Safety Tip | Don’t hike this area as a solo traveler

Distance From Mesa Redonda | Almost 6 Miles

Temple of the Fly (Chuspiyoq)

The Temple of the Fly has might just be the most special Inca site in Cusco. There is a beautiful meadow here with a very distinct rock. This sacred place appears to be some sort of ceremonial site. This temple rarely sees visitors. Look back and see distant views of the Temple of the Moon.

Distance From Mesa Redonda | 6.5 Miles

Next, head out the same path towards the Temple of the Moon, but veer towards the right. Walk through a field to meet a dirt road. Temple of the Moon will be in the distance to your left hand side. Continue along on the path until it merges into a paved road.

Look to the left to appreciate the chair-like rock known as “Sillarumiyoq.” Continue on the road and head right towards Q’enqo. Pass by the main site of Q’enqo. Since it’s part of the Cusco Tourist Ticket it’s not included on this free self-guided tour.

Keep Q’enqo to the left and soon see Q’enqo Chico, which is a free and lovely park.

Q’enqo Chico

This large rock formation sits in the middle of a welcoming meadow with mini forest. Q’enqo Chico boasts some epic views of Cusco. Theses Inca ruins in Cusco make for an excellent spot to relax and savor the city views. Notice that there are large Inca building blocks, like those used in the nearby park ticketed section of Sacsayhuamán.

Distance From Mesa Redonda | 7.75 Miles

Next, head back and follow along on the main road (which does have car traffic). Next, continue towards Christo Blanco, the tall white statue of Jesus. Once on the main road, it’s best to veer to the left to reach this mirador.

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Christo Blanco Viewpoint

The viewpoint of Christo Blanco offers up some nice views of Cusco. From here keep the Jesus statue on the right hand-side to head towards Sacsayhuamán.

Distance from Start Point | 8.25 Miles

Continue on the path where you’ll see awesome vistas of the massive and stunning “Inca building blocks” of the main ticketed area of Sacsayhuamán Archaeological Park. When you meet the Inca road, take a left turn, which walks alongside the outskirts of the park. Keep the park to the right and exit from the main entrance gate.

Ending Point | Cusco’s Plaza de Armas

After you “exit from the entrance” take the small staircase and walk past a few tiendas. There’s a bathroom here, too, incase you need it. Next, connect with a main road. This is Pumacurco, a steep, yet lovely street that makes for a great photo-op.

Follow along the cobblestone road, past beautiful street art, and plenty of cafes. Soon after, reach the charming Plazoleta de las Nazarenas. This quiet plaza is home to the popular Museo de Arte Precolombino and some nice, yet pricey restaurant options.

Continue on the street and take a right down the street of Córdoba del Tucumán. Walk past the colonial churches, a reminder of the reality of a forceful Spanish conquest. Long before the city was influenced by the Spanish it was the mighty Imperial City of the Inca Empire. Continue walking along the cobblestone streets, past the charming buildings to finally reach the famous Plaza De Armas.

Distance from Mesa Redonda | 8.75 Miles

Inca Ruins in Cusco: Free Hiking Tour

In short, this self-guided hiking tour highlights some of the best free Inca ruins in Cusco. Many tourists come to Cusco and only acclimate for their adventure to Machu Picchu. However, the Imperial City of the Incas has so many incredible hidden treasures scattered throughout the hillsides, many which receive little to none tourists.

This casual day hike includes hidden gem Inca ruins, Spanish colonial ruins, epic viewpoints, and more many highlights in Cusco. This diverse Cusco day hike makes a great alternative for Circuit 1 of the popular Cusco Tourist Ticket. Don’t miss these free and worthwhile Inca ruins in Cusco!

Have you visited any of these hidden gem Inca ruins in Cusco? What did you think of them? Am I missing any free Inca ruins in Cusco that you love? Did you take this self-guided hike of these Inca ruins in Cusco when you visited? Let me know in the comments below!

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