Chinchero is a place where Andean history and culture are still very much alive. Located in the heart of the Sacred Valley, this town is known for its Inca terraces, colonial church, and traditional weaving centers. Walking through Chinchero is like traveling back in time—among stone walls, colorful markets, and landscapes that feel like something out of a dream.
Chinchero: An Inca Treasure in the Sacred Valley
High in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, at over 3,700 meters above sea level, Chinchero rises as a place where time seems to stand still. Surrounded by mountains and breathtaking landscapes, this village is where history, culture, and nature intertwine in perfect harmony. Its Inca ruins, colonial church, and colorful markets make it an essential destination for anyone wanting to experience the true essence of Andean heritage.
What Is the Archaeological Center of Chinchero?
The name Chinchero comes from the Quechua words: Chinchay, meaning “Land of the Andean Feline,” or sincheraq, meaning “Land of the Powerful Inca Túpac Yupanqui.” The Archaeological Center of Chinchero is a collection of Inca remains located within the town of Chinchero. This site was once the royal estate of Inca Túpac Yupanqui, who ordered the construction of temples, agricultural terraces, and storage systems. Today, it is a place where Inca history blends with colonial heritage, reflected in the church built atop the remains of ancient structures.
History of Chinchero: A Fusion of Inca and Colonial Cultures
It was one of the most important towns of the Tawantinsuyo due to its strategic location between Cusco and the Sacred Valley. During the reign of Inca Túpac Yupanqui, terraces and palace structures were built for his royal estate. These constructions served not only as a place of rest, but also as a center for agricultural production and ceremonial activities.
However, with the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century, the Inca structures underwent a transformation. Following their strategy of domination, the conquerors destroyed much of the original buildings and constructed a colonial church atop the foundations—the Church of Our Lady of Monserrat. Built in the 17th century, this church is a reflection of religious syncretism, housing murals and paintings from the Cusqueña School that blend Christian iconography with the Andean worldview.
Despite colonization, the people of Chinchero have managed to preserve their ancestral traditions, keeping their culture alive through weaving, ceremonies, and local markets—making this place a unique space where past and present coexist in harmony.
How to Get to the Chinchero Archaeological Site
Chinchero is located about 30 km from the city of Cusco. There are several ways to get there:
| TRANSPORT TO CHINCHERO | DESCRIPTION |
| By bus or shared van | From the bus stop on Pavitos Street (Cusco), you can take a shared van that gets you there in about 40 minutes. |
| By taxi | You can also hire a private taxi, which offers more comfort and flexibility. |
| By tour | MachuPicchu Sacred offers guided tours that include Chinchero along with other attractions in the Sacred Valley. |
Main Attractions of the Chinchero Archaeological Site
| ATTRACTION | DESCRIPTION |
| Inca Terraces | The agricultural terraces are structures that optimize crop production in mountainous terrain, with irrigation canals and farming platforms adapted to various altitudes. |
| Main Square | Chinchero’s Main Square combines remains of Inca walls with the Church of Our Lady of Monserrat, merging Inca and colonial architecture. |
| Church of Our Lady of Monserrat | This colonial church, built atop an Inca site, stands out for its baroque decoration and ornamental details. |
| Textile Center | At Chinchero’s Textile Center, local weavers use ancestral techniques to create alpaca and wool textiles, applying natural dyes and traditional patterns. Workshops are available to learn the process. |
| Chinchero Market | The colorful Chinchero Market offers visitors handmade textiles, pottery, and other local products. |
Opening Hours and Ticket Prices
Access to the Ollantaytambo Archaeological Center is available every day of the week, with visiting hours from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
| TICKET TYPE | PRICE | VALIDITY | CIRCUIT |
| General Ticket “BTCI” | S/ 130.00 | 10 days | Circuit III (Sacred Valley): Chinchero Archaeological Park. |
| Student Ticket “BEE” | S/ 70.00 | 10 days | Circuit III (Sacred Valley): Chinchero Archaeological Park. |
| Partial Ticket III “BTCPIII” | S/ 70.00 | 2 days | Circuit III: Chinchero Archaeological Park. |
Best Time to Visit Chinchero
The best time to visit Chinchero is during the dry season (April to October), when the skies are clear and rain is scarce, allowing you to enjoy the scenery and take spectacular photos. However, if you want a more authentic experience, it’s recommended to visit during local festivities in January or July, as they offer a deeper look into the living culture of the town.
Tips for Visitors
- Bring warm clothing: The high altitude makes the weather cold, especially in the mornings and evenings.
- Stay well hydrated.
- Use sunscreen and a hat: The Andean sun is strong.
- If you plan to buy textiles or crafts, the Sunday market is the best day to find variety and good prices.
- Respect the rules of the archaeological site: Ask for permission before photographing artisans or locals.
