The town of Chinchero, like Ollantaytambo, was built over ancient pre-Hispanic settlements. This archaeological site was located along an important route connected to the access toward Machu Picchu and was an urban center that can still be appreciated today around its church and main square.
Chinchero was built over the ruins of a settlement belonging to the Killke culture, a pre-Inca civilization dedicated to agriculture and the herding of South American camelids. This ethnic group opposed the Incas taking possession of their lands.
Over time, the Incas took control of the area and incorporated it into the Tahuantinsuyo. The Inca Túpac Yupanqui ordered the construction of several buildings for his own use and that of the royal family. With the arrival of the Spaniards, Inca settlements were looted and destroyed, and Chinchero was no exception.
However, it was Manco Inca who ordered the town to be burned during the resistance against the Spaniards in 1536, in an attempt to gain time for the Inca population to escape from the Spaniards toward the jungle, where they lived for a long period.
After the establishment of the Spanish colony, the town of Chinchero was inhabited by Spaniards, and haciendas were built over the ruins of the Inca city. One of the main constructions is the church of Chinchero, which was built over the Inca palace. This colonial church has a Baroque style and contains a collection of paintings created by the Cusco artist Diego Quispe Tito.
Chinchero is located 30 kilometers from the city of Cusco, approximately a 40-minute drive from the city. It is located at an altitude of 3,762 meters above sea level.
Chinchero was an important urban center whose main area was located where the church stands today. Around it, walls made of assembled polygonal stones are preserved, forming retaining walls that shape the agricultural terraces. Visitors can also see large rooms with windows, niches, doors, and entrances.
The Chinchero archaeological site covers up to 43 hectares, where terraces, agricultural platforms, paths, water channels, and temples can be found. The area also contains the remains of three ceremonial sites called Titiqaqa, Pumaqaqa, and Chincana, which are enormous limestone rock formations carefully carved by the ancient inhabitants of Peru.
In the main square of Chinchero, the combination of Inca and colonial architecture stands out at first sight. In front of the church, there is an Inca wall with 10 trapezoidal niches that have been preserved to this day. These structures were part of what was once the Palace of Túpac Yupanqui.
The colonial church is another attraction that can be found in Chinchero. It was built over the remains of Túpac Yupanqui’s palace, and its origin is usually dated to 1572, during the government of Viceroy Toledo. This church is mainly decorated with Cusco religious art, including original works by renowned artists such as Diego Quispe Tito and Francisco Chihuantito.
Every Sunday, a market is held in the town of Chinchero where local residents participate by bringing their products to sell or exchange, following the ancient Inca exchange system known as barter. At this market, you will find a variety of local textiles where the Inca weaving tradition can still be observed.
Poc Poc Waterfall is located approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes walking from Chinchero. From this route, you can observe the agricultural terraces, the colonial church, and a spectacular panoramic view.
From the archaeological complex, there are signs that guide visitors toward Poc Poc Waterfall, making orientation easier. The walk to the waterfall offers panoramic views of the valley, as well as a variety of local flora and fauna. In addition, the route is not especially demanding because most of the trail is downhill, making it accessible for most visitors.
To return, you have two options: you can go back the same way, although this will be more demanding because it is uphill; or you can continue from the waterfall until reaching the nearest town, Urquillos, where you can find transportation to Cusco or Urubamba.
The best season to visit Poc Poc Waterfall is from May to October, because the weather is dry and provides better conditions for hiking.
Monday to Sunday, from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Entrance to Chinchero is included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket.
The climate of Chinchero is semi-dry, so the best time to visit is in the morning, when the sun is not as intense, since in the afternoons there is usually more wind, which can make the visit and the comfort of travelers more difficult.
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To explore the main areas of the complex without rushing, it is recommended to reserve approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. If you also wish to visit the church, learn about the textile tradition, and walk through the town, it is advisable to allow more time.
The site has a relatively flat access area leading to the entrance and main square. However, the internal route includes uneven sections and stairs, so accessibility may be partial depending on the areas visitors wish to explore.
The terraces did not have only an agricultural function. They also helped organize the land, control water, and make better use of the area's conditions for cultivation. Archaeological research carried out in Chinchero has identified water distribution channels associated with these areas.
Yes. Chinchero can be included in routes that also visit places such as Maras and Moray. However, the number of attractions that can be visited will depend on the available time and the duration of each stop.
Visitors must respect the archaeological structures and should not climb on or paint the walls. There are also restrictions on entering with food, animals, or alcoholic beverages, as well as taking photographs or making commercial recordings without authorization from the Decentralized Directorate of Culture of Cusco.
The route does not require special physical preparation, although it includes uneven sections, stairs, and irregular surfaces. It is recommended to walk at a moderate pace and wear comfortable footwear, especially if you wish to explore the different areas of the complex.
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