Cusco was the Inca Empire’s capital and is home to many important archaeological sites. The most well-known are the Sacsayhuaman, Kenko, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay near Cusco. Other notable Inca ruins in Cusco include the Corikancha temple and the temple of the moon.
Puka Pukara – The Inca Fortress in Cusco.
Cusco was the Inca Empire’s capital and is home to many important archaeological sites. The most well-known are the Sacsayhuaman, Kenko, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay near Cusco. Other notable Inca ruins in Cusco include the Corikancha temple and the temple of the moon.
Puka Pukara Fortress
What is Puka Pukara?.
Puka Pukara is an archaeological site in the upper part of Cusco city. The site consists of a series of Redstone buildings and fortifications, as well as many terraces and agricultural areas. The site was likely used as a military outpost or garrison, as its strategic location overlooking the valley below would have allowed its occupants to control trade and travel routes.
Meaning of Puka Pukara.
Puka Pukara comes from the compound Quechua word; Puka, “Red,” and Pukara, “Fortress,” menaing the Red Fortress. The name perhaps derives from the color of the rocks during sunset.
Location.
It is located in the Cusco Region of Peru. It is situated about 24 kilometers (15 miles) east of Cusco, on a hill above the Tambomachay area. The site sits at an elevation of 3,700 meters (12,100 feet).
History.
Thought to have been constructed during the reign of Pachacutec, the ninth Inca ruler. Puka Pukara is situated on a hill overlooking the city of Cusco and was likely used as a military outpost. The fortress consists of a series of terraces, walls, and gates.
There is no record of this site in history books; however, it’s believed that it was built for military purposes and made in a hurry due to the material used that is not carefully carved and placed in the regular Inca walls.
Today, is a popular tourist destination and part of the city tour circuit in Cusco, along with Plaza de Armas, Koricancha, Sacsayhuaman, and many others.
Functions.
Puka Pukara was likely used as a military outpost. The site is just a few kilometers from Cusco, the empire’s capital, making it an ideal location for keeping an eye on potential enemies. The complex would also have been used as a base for Inca troops when they were sent out on campaigns against other tribes.
In addition to its military functions, it was also likely used as a place of refuge in times of trouble. The site’s high walls and numerous rooms would have provided safety for those who sought shelter there. The aqueduct may have also been used to bring fresh water to the complex in case of siege.
Puka Pukara Nowadays.
Today, it is a popular tourist destination, with visitors visiting the well-preserved ruins and learning about Inca history.
Architecture.
The main section consists of a series of rooms, courtyards, and stairways built into the side of a hill. You can access several rooms from the main courtyard, including an aqueduct that supplied water to the site, storage rooms, and living quarters for the Inca soldiers stationed there. Several lookout towers offer views of the surrounding area.
The wall constructions in Puka Pukara are Pirka style, where limestone rocks were put together using mortar (clack). This place is rich in Iron and gives reddish color in the afternoons.
How to get to Puka Pukara?.
Its location is just 6km from Cusco, making it an easy day trip. You can take a taxi or bus from Cusco’s main square or book a city tour in Cusco and visit several Inca Places.
If taking public transportation, the most direct route is a combi (small van) from Av. El Sol in Cusco’s main square. These depart regularly throughout the day and will drop you off at the entrance to Puka Pukara. From there, it’s a short walk to the ticket office and the main ruins.
If you are driving yourself, head north for Cusco, on the route Cusco to Pisac. The road leads uphill for about 5km before reaching the parking lot.
If you are booking a Cusco city, you can book for early morning tours or afternoon tours; the city tour takes around 4 hours to visit Cusco Plaza de Armas, Koricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Kenko, and Tambomachay.
What do you need to visit Puka Pukara?.
You need to purchase a Boleto Turistico to visit this site. The site is only open from 8 am to 4 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.
You can purchase a full Boleto Turistico for 130 soles, including the Sacred Valley.
You can purchase a half Boleto Turistico, which includes only Cusco ruins + museums. The cost is 70 soles.
The Boleto Turistico you can purchase in Cusco city or in the Puka Pukara entrance.
What to expect to see?.
Puka Pukara is a great place to learn about the Inca culture and history. Also, you will enjoy the amazing natural vistas of the Andes and the small villages around.
Flora.
Puka Pukara is home to many florae, including queuña trees, chachacomo, Andean Ichu, and wildflowers.
Fauna.
The nearby villages are home to various animals, including llamas and alpacas. Also is possible to e¿spot the Andean Caracaras, Condors, hummingbirds, and others.