Ultimate Travel Guide to Pikillacta: Exploring Peru's Ancient Wari Ruins

Pikillacta is a pre-Inca settlement, known for its impressive adobe and stone architecture. Located in the South Valley of Cusco, on the slopes of the Huchuy Balcon hill, this archaeological site was an administrative center of the Wari culture. It flourished in the central Andes, with its capital in Ayacucho. The site is notable for its urban planning skills and expansive influence in ancient Peru. Its importance is due to its unique shape and size.

If you're looking for a place outside the city to connect with your spirit, discover Pikillacta, a fascinating archaeological site in the South Valley of Cusco. In this blog, we'll explore the history of the Wari culture with a visit that promises to enrich both your mind and spirit. Don't wait any longer; live the adventure of the past today!

History

Pikillacta was a crucial administrative and ceremonial center for the Wari, a culture that spread throughout Peru during the Middle Horizon from 600 to 1100 AD. The name "Pikillacta" comes from two Quechua words, "piki" and "llacta," which translates to "city of fleas." This archaeological site is distinguished by its highly developed and sophisticated urban planning. The architectural constructions reflect the degree of development of pre-Hispanic civilizations, featuring grid-like structures with straight streets and orderly blocks forming an almost perfect rectangle. 

The orthogonal layout is well-organized and distributed across the area, a clear example of the social control and organization of the time. The stone and clay structures, which still stand today, along with findings of ceramics and textiles, suggest that Pikillacta was a significant center of the Wari culture in the southern Cusco valley.

Pikillacta Today

Currently, Pikillacta is an important tourist destination and an archaeological research center. It is the best-preserved archaeological site in the entire southern valley of Cusco, attracting visitors with its impressive architectural constructions. Ongoing research at the site continues to provide new discoveries that enrich our understanding of this ancient culture.

Meaning

The word Pikillacta comes from two Quechua words: "piki," which means flea, and "llaqta," which means town. Translated into English, it means "town of fleas," indicating that its ancient inhabitants suffered from severe skin eruptions caused by fleas.

Location

Pikillacta is located 30 kilometers southeast of the city of Cusco, near the district of Lucre and in the province of Quispicanchi, at an altitude of 3250 meters above sea level. The site is situated on a plateau overlooking the Lucre Valley and part of the Vilcanota Valley in the Cusco region. The surrounding area is a mix of plains and mountains, characteristic of the Andean landscape. Strategically, it served to control trade routes and efficiently manage agriculture through terraces adapted to the mountainous topography, enhancing their ecosystem.

Climate

The climate of Pikillacta is temperate, with temperatures varying during the day, reaching up to 23°C (73°F) in the daytime and dropping to 3°C (37°F) at night. The best time to visit Pikillacta is during the dry season, from April to October when the weather is drier, and the views are clearer. This is perfect for exploring without the risk of rain.

Flora and Fauna

• Flora: The flora in Pikillacta includes a variety of plants adapted to high-altitude conditions, such as molle (Schinus molle), quisuar (Buddleja incana), maguey (Agave americana), and k’antu (Cantua buxifolia). Grasses like ichu (Stipa ichu) are predominant.
• Fauna: The fauna includes several species of Andean birds and small mammals, such as the Andean goose (Chloephaga melanoptera), the cinereous harrier (Circus cinereus), the pampas cat (Felis colocolo), and the vizcacha (Lagidium peruanum).

Important Sites in Pikillacta

The Qolqas

Comprising 501 circular structures known as qolqas (storage buildings), located at the western end of sector 4. These constructions demonstrate the Wari's advanced ability to manage food and material resources, which is crucial for supporting a large population.

The Kanchas

These architectural buildings are found throughout the archaeological site of Pikillacta. The rectangular structures are walled on the inside and serve as residential compounds where families or clans have lived. They show the social structure and population distribution in the ancient city.

Main Plaza or Grand Esplanade

Located in sector 3 of the archaeological site, surrounded by 11 rectangular enclosures called kanchas. This central area served as a space for ceremonies and community gatherings, highlighting the importance of social and religious life in Pikillacta.

The Wall of Pikillacta

The walls surrounding Pikillacta not only defended the site but also clearly delineated the urban space. Measuring 1.50 meters wide and over 10 meters high, these walls are a testament to the city's planning and structure.

The Canchones of Pikillacta

Comprising 12 blocks of canchones measuring 400 to 600 meters approximately, likely used as corrals for managing llamas and alpacas, animals essential for the Wari economy for their wool and meat.

Choquepujio

Located on the left bank of the Huatanay River in the district of Lucre, this site is known for its two-story constructions, terraces, hydraulic systems, and funerary structures. It shows a long occupational sequence from ancient times to the late horizon.

Rumiqolqa Gate

A control post for entry and exit to Pikillacta during the Inca period, situated in the district of Lucre at an altitude of 3184 meters. 

The finely worked stone masonry highlights the construction's sophistication.

Amarupata Terraces

Step platforms are located on the slopes of the Qosqoqawarina hill in the district of Lucre. Still in use today by local farmers, these terraces transformed challenging agricultural landscapes.

Urpikancha

Located in the small town of Huacarpay, in the district of Lucre. Comprising rectangular enclosures, hydraulic channels, walls, and platforms. Modern recreational facilities have altered the archaeological and scenic environment of the site.

Kuntuqaqa

Found on the Raqchi hill, on the left side of the Huatanay River, at an altitude of 3259 meters. Characterized by funerary structures built into the rock formation.

Tanta Estancia

Located on the slopes of the Huchuy Balcon hill in the district of Lucre, south of Pikillacta. Characterized by rectangular and circular structures associated with secondary roads and agricultural buildings from the Inca period.

Recommendations for Visiting Pikillacta

Pikillacta is located about 30 kilometers south of Cusco. You can reach the site by a short bus or taxi ride, but an organized tour from Cusco is the most recommended option.

Public and Private Transport Options

• Public Transport: Taking a combi or bus is a very economical way to travel. You can board these vehicles on Av. La Cultura or in Huayruropata. Just inform the driver or conductor to let you off at the Pikillacta entrance. The trip usually takes about 45 minutes, allowing you to enjoy the rural landscape of the South Valley of Cusco.
• Organized Tour: For a more organized trip, it's recommended to take a tour agency in Cusco that offers daily excursions to Pikillacta. These tours include visits to other places of interest, such as Tipón and Andahuaylillas. This option includes a specialized guide, direct transportation, and a hotel.
• Taxi or Private Service: For a more personalized and flexible experience, you can hire a taxi or private vehicle. This option is ideal if you want to manage your own schedule or travel with a group. Though more expensive, the comfort and ability to customize your itinerary can be worth it.

Travel Tips for Pikillacta

Safety and Health Tips:

• Carry more than one liter of water.
• Maintain good hygiene and personal care.
• Bring sunscreen, hats, and caps.
• Do not access restricted paths to avoid accidents.

Cultural and Respect Guidelines:

• Respect archaeological monuments and follow guide instructions during the tour.
• Do not take stones or artifacts from the site.
• Avoid touching, leaning on, or climbing walls to prevent accidents and damage to the archaeological monument.
• Preserving and conserving archaeological heritage is everyone's responsibility.

 Recommendations:

• Start early for the tour.
• Carry identification or passports for foreigners.
• Wear appropriate clothing for temperature changes throughout the day, especially if planning to walk a lot.
• Waterproof jackets or rain ponchos can be useful in case of sudden rains.
• Comfortable shoes or trekking sneakers for site tours.
• A camera to capture unique moments at Pikillacta with its impressive landscapes and rich history.
• Cash for entrance fees, guides, or souvenirs.
• A small backpack to comfortably carry all personal items during the visit.

Typical Dishes

On the route to Pikillacta, you will find a variety of traditional dishes in Saylla and Tipón, but not at the site itself. Try the baked guinea pig and chicha de jora, both deeply rooted in Andean culinary tradition.

Entry tickets and times to Pikillacta

You can purchase the Cusco Tourist Ticket, which includes entry to Pikillacta, as part of the Comprehensive Tourist Ticket (BTG). This ticket allows access to 16 tourist destinations in Cusco and optimizes your travel budget. It is valid for 10 days from the date of purchase.

Another option is the Partial Tourist Ticket in Circuit 2, which is valid for two days and includes Pikillacta, part of Cusco's historic center, the South Valley, and other archaeological sites.

Entry Hours to Pikillacta

The archaeological site of Pikillacta is open from Monday to Sunday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Entry Fee to Pikillacta

The entry fee includes your visit to Pikillacta in the Cusco Tourist Ticket. The cost varies according to the ticket you wish to purchase.

Rates for Minors (10 to 17 years old)

Minors aged 10 to 17 must purchase their tourist ticket by presenting a valid ID or passport if foreign. The entrance fee for the tourist ticket is free.

Rates for University Students (18 to 25 years old)

Students can purchase their tourist ticket by presenting a valid original student card or ISIC card. The entry fee is S/. 70.00.

Options to Purchase the Cusco Tourist Ticket

The Cusco Tourist Ticket is available to everyone and can be purchased in several ways:

• COSITUC Office: Located at Avenida El Sol Nº 103, Office 102 (Tourist Gallery). This is the main office for ticket purchases. Office hours are Monday to Friday from 8:00 am to 5:30 pm, and Saturdays from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm.
• All places are included in the Tourist Ticket except the Qosqo Center for Native Art, the Museum of Popular Art, and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Similar sites near Pikillacta

Tipon

Tipón is an archaeological site located about 23 kilometers southeast of Cusco, in the district of Oropesa in the province of Quispicanchi. It was an important ceremonial, administrative, and religious center during the Inca period. Tipón is notable for its advanced system of terraces and irrigation canals, which are still functioning today. 

The site served as a place of worship for water and as a residence for the Inca nobility. Notable structures include twelve agricultural terraces, finely constructed aqueducts, and a series of fountains and small waterfalls demonstrating Inca hydraulic mastery.

Kanamarca

Located in the community of the Alto Pichigua district, province of Espinar, department of Cusco, about 15 km from the capital Yauri. This ancient settlement was part of the K'ana empire, a pre-Inca culture later absorbed by the Incas.

Photo by @culturacusco

It stands out for being an administrative and ceremonial center, with an impressive colonial temple and large architectural structures. The site's architecture provides a significant window into pre-Columbian construction traditions and techniques in the Andes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Pikillacta?

Pikillacta is a pre-Inca archaeological site near Cusco, Peru. It was one of the most important administrative and ceremonial centers of the Wari culture.

When is the best time to visit Pikillacta?

The best time to visit is during the dry season, between April and October, when the weather is more temperate and there is less chance of rain.

How to get there from Cusco?

Pikillacta is approximately 30 kilometers from Cusco. You can reach it by car, taxi, or bus services that regularly depart from Cusco.

Is there an entry fee to Pikillacta?

Yes, an entry fee is required. Pikillacta is part of the Cusco Tourist Ticket, which also includes entry to other sites in the region.

How long does a visit to Pikillacta take?

A typical visit lasts between 1 and 2 hours, depending on interest and whether a tour guide is hired.

Can you hire a guide?

Yes, guides are usually available at the entrance, offering tours in Spanish and English. It is recommended that you hire one to gain a better understanding of the site.

What to see in Pikillacta?

You can see impressive walls and well-preserved adobe structures, an advanced aqueduct system, and evidence of Wari urban planning.

What safety rules should be followed?

It's important to follow established routes and respect restricted areas to protect the heritage and ensure personal safety.

Are there food and bathroom facilities?

There are no food services on the site, but bathrooms are available at the entrance. It's recommended that you bring snacks and water.

Is it wheelchair accessible?

Accessibility is limited due to uneven terrain and the nature of the archaeological site, but certain areas are accessible.