During Inca times, Chinchero was an important urban center characterized by its architecture and space. The main center was located where the church is today and its surroundings exhibited impressive walls of polyhedrons assembled forming retaining walls that molded the platforms. Large rooms with windows, niches, doors and entrances can also be seen. In addition, on the northern slope of Chinchero are the terraces of Tupac Inca, designed to impress his powerful relatives, which still cover the hill and can be seen and experienced today.
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What to do in Chinchero?
Chinchero is a town located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas in Cusco, Peru. It is known for its impressive archaeological site and for its textile tradition, which has been kept alive throughout the centuries. Here are some things you can do in Chincheros:
- Visit the archaeological site of Chinchero: The archaeological site of Chinchero is a popular attraction in the area. Here you can explore the ruins of an Inca fortress and a series of agricultural terraces. You can also enjoy panoramic views of the sacred valley.
- Learn about the textile tradition: Chinchero is known for its textile tradition, which has been kept alive over the centuries. You can visit weaving workshops and watch local artisans in action. You can also buy authentic textiles at the local market.
- Explore the colonial church: Chinchero’s colonial church is one of the oldest in the region. It was built on the foundations of an Inca temple and has impressive frescoes inside.
- Walking around the town: Chinchero is a picturesque town with cobblestone streets and colonial houses. You can walk through its streets and visit the small stores and local restaurants.
- Participate in traditional ceremonies and rituals: Chinchero is known for its traditional ceremonies and rituals, which have been kept alive despite the influence of Christianity. You can participate in ceremonies such as the Pachamama or the Chaccu and learn more about Andean culture.
In short, Chinchero is a town full of history, culture and tradition. It is an ideal place to explore the rich history of the region and to learn about the customs and traditions of the local inhabitants.
How to get to Chinchero Cusco?
There are several ways to get to Chinchero from Cusco, Peru. Here are some common options:
By bus
- You can take a bus from Cusco to Chinchero. Buses usually leave from the Cusco bus terminal, located on Huayruropata Avenue. The bus trip takes about an hour and the price of the ticket varies according to the company and the type of service you choose. Among the best known companies are Cusco Bus, Wari Palomino, and Urubamba.
By cab
- Another option to get to Chinchero is to take a cab from Cusco. Cabs can be easily found anywhere in the city, and the trip to Chinchero takes about an hour. It is important to agree on the cab fare with the driver before getting into the vehicle. The price is usually around 60-80 soles.
By tour
- If you prefer a more organized experience, you can join a tour that takes you to Chinchero and other places in the Sacred Valley. There are many tours available in Cusco and they can be booked online or through travel agencies. Some tours include visits to archaeological sites and lunch at local restaurants.
Whichever option you choose, it is important to remember that Chinchero is located at an altitude of 3,762 meters above sea level. Therefore, it is advisable to take precautions to avoid altitude sickness, such as drinking plenty of water and getting enough rest.
