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Explore the Inca water systems of Cusco on a guided tour. Visit Qorikancha, Tambomachay, and Puka Pukara, and enjoy a traditional Andean lunch.

Highlights

• Discover the engineering behind Cusco’s water systems
• Visit Qorikancha, Tambomachay, and Puka Pukara
• Learn about the political importance of water access
• Enjoy a traditional Andean lunch at a local restaurant
• Travel in comfort with private transport and a local guide

Description

Begin with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco. Before visiting the sites, listen as your guide explains why Cusco was built where it was, how springs were selected and protected, and why water access equaled political authority. Next, visit the Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun) exterior and water channels. Learn how sacred water entered controlled spaces, why religious authority required hydraulic control, and how Spanish construction reused Inca channels. Then, walk through historic streets where original Inca canals still run. Hear about street drainage design, flood control during heavy rains, and why Cusco didn’t collapse under seasonal water pressure. Continue to Tambomachay, the clearest example of Inca hydraulic precision. See dual fountains with constant flow, pressure control without valves, and the ritual use vs functional design. Make a short stop at Puka Pukara to learn about water protection during conflict, control of access points, and why water sites were militarily guarded. Stop for lunch at a local Cusco restaurant. Enjoy a typical meal of soup or stew, local grains or potatoes, a vegetable or meat main, and herbal tea or water. Finally, return to your hotel in Cusco.

Includes

Hotel pick-up & drop-off Private vehicle with professional local driver Licensed guide specializing in Inca urban planning Traditional Andean lunch All transport & access costs

Important Information

• Moderate walking on uneven stone streets This is an engineering and urban systems tour Not focused on ruins aesthetics or photos

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund