Puma Orqo & Maukallaqta Day Trip

Puma Orqo & Maukallaqta Day Trip

This tour focuses on the origins of the Inca civilization, beginning with a pick-up at 8 am from your hotel in Cusco. We will travel through mountainous terrain to the province of Paruro, passing through villages such as Yaurisque, where we will see the ancient Church of San Esteban.

The first stop is the archaeological complex of Puma Orqo. Here, we will explore the legend of the Inca culture's origins, referencing chronicles by Juan de Betanzos and Cristobal de Molina. The tour includes a visit to the Tamputoqocaves, known in Quechua as "place of the dawn or origin," exploring their possible links to Inca legends.

Next, we will walk 3 miles (5 kilometers) along the Yaurisque River to Maukallaqta, another archaeological site with over 200 masonry buildings. Experts suggest this site may have been the location of a grand oracle, with walls once covered in gold.

While at Maukallaqta, we will observe ceremonial fountains, alcoves, and other sacred structures that signify its historical and religious relevance. After the visit, a break for lunch will be provided before our return to Cusco, where we expect to arrive around 4 pm, concluding the tour with drop-off at your hotel.