What secrets do the sacred Inca baths hold? Tambomachay sits close to the heart of Cusco, Peru. You’ll find beautifully crafted aqueducts and water channels here that still flow today. This site reveals the connection the Incas had with water and nature.
Let’s explore why Tambomachay deserves a place on your travel list. You can also visit nearby spots, all in just one day.
Why Tambomachay is a Must-Visit
The Spiritual Mystery of Tambomachay
Tambomachay is a sacred place built to honor water and host rituals. You’ll find it fascinating as it’s often called the “Inca Bath.” This site played a key role in defending the Cusco valley. It is also home to the ninth sacred huaca, an important spiritual landmark for the Incas.
A Design That Stuns Architecture Lovers
You will be amazed by its advanced hydraulic system. Tambomachay features carved stone structures, fountains, canals, terraces, and ceremonial platforms. These show how much the Incas valued water and nature. It was also the home of Inca Yupanqui. The precise construction of its aqueducts and water channels proves the engineering skills of the Inca empire.
The Secret Meaning Behind Its Quechua Name
The name “Tambomachay” comes from Quechua. "Tampu" means a shared lodging, and "Machhay" means resting or sleeping. Together, it translates to “Place of Rest.” It was both a sacred water shrine and a rest stop for the Incas. Tambomachay belonged to the first ceque of Antisuyo, known as the ninth sacred huaca.
What History Says About Tambomachay
- Inca Pachacutec ordered the construction of Tambomachay in the 15th century. It was a hunting lodge and resting place for Inca Yupanqui. Sacrifices were performed here, but never of children.
- When the Spanish arrived, Tambomachay was abandoned. Its original purpose faded over time. The Spanish crown gave the surrounding lands, called Pucara, to descendants of the Inca rulers. These lands became part of estates owned by Felipe Yupanqui.
- Today, Tambomachay is a popular tourist destination. Its remarkable architecture and stunning natural surroundings continue to attract visitors from all over the world.
How to Get to and Enter Tambomachay
Where is Tambomachay Located?
Tambomachay is located on a hill, northeast of Cusco city. It’s about 8 km from the city. The site is part of the Saqsayhuaman archaeological park, in the Cusco department, province, and district. It sits at an altitude of 3,700 meters above sea level, along the road from Saqsayhuaman to Pisac.
Your Options to Get There
You have several ways to reach Tambomachay:
- By Car: It’s just a 15 to 20-minute drive from the city center. You’ll take the paved road that connects Cusco-Pisac and the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
- On Foot: If you love adventure, you can walk along Inca paths. These routes were part of the Antisuyo road system. They connect with Saqsayhuaman, Q’enqo, Puka Pukara, and finally, Tambomachay.
Best Time to Visit Tambomachay and Weather
The best time to visit Tambomachay is during the dry season, from April to October. The weather is great, with minimal rain. The views are stunning, and you’ll be amazed by the architecture and waterfalls.
Tambomachay has cool, dry weather, with average temperatures ranging from 4°C to 23°C. During the rainy season, from November to April, the weather is more humid and cooler, with lush green landscapes. In the dry season, from April to October, the days are sunny and clear, but it gets cold at night.
Entry Cost and Hours
Tambomachay is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Remember to bring comfortable clothes, proper footwear, and sunscreen.
The entrance fee is included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTC). The price depends on whether you’re a national or foreign tourist.
Prices:
- For foreign tourists: S/. 130.00 (about USD 36)
- For national tourists: S/. 70.00 (about USD 20)
The ticket is valid for 10 days and gives you access to 16 different tourist sites.
What You Will See at Tambomachay
The Fountains: Worship of Water
The flowing water channels and fountains at Tambomachay show the advanced engineering of the Inca Empire. Two aqueducts are carved perfectly into the rocks. The water flows into a small pool called the "liturgical fountain," where the Inca worshipped water. Today, this site is known as the "Bath of the Ñusta" or the Inca bath.
The Terraces
Tambomachay has terraces or platforms made of four stepped structures attached to the rock formation. These terraces are built on irregular-shaped stone blocks, which are carefully cut and fitted together. On the last terrace, there is a large wall decorated with four big trapezoidal niches.
The Ushnu
The Ushnu is a raised platform. The Incas used it for official ceremonies and rituals linked to water worship, agriculture, and astronomy. It’s also known as a “watchtower” or "pucará" because it offers a panoramic view of the entire area. The Ushnu shows the ceremonial importance and power of the Inca elite.
The Landscape
The nature around Tambomachay is stunning. The site is surrounded by native vegetation, offering you a unique experience.
Nearby Sites You Can Visit
Sacsayhuaman Archaeological Site
Located 2 km from Cusco’s main square, Sacsayhuaman is an Inca fortress. It has massive walls made from huge stone blocks that fit together perfectly, without mortar. The site includes towers, bastions, platforms, circular and rectangular buildings, tunnels, a sunken plaza, and sacred huacas. It was the most important temple in the Tahuantinsuyo.
The Sacred Huaca of Q’enqo
Q’enqo is a sacred site, believed to be an astronomical observatory. It was the most important huaca of Hanan Qosqo, where the Incas performed ceremonies and sacrifices. It is located 3 km northeast of Cusco.
The Red Fortress of Pukapukara
Pukapukara is known as the "Red Fortress" because of the reddish color of its stones. It is thought to have had military functions, serving as a watchtower and entry control point to Cusco. It also provided rest for Inca caravans. Pukapukara is located just a few kilometers from Tambomachay.
Takeaway
Is it worth visiting Tambomachay in Cusco? Absolutely. From the moment you enter, you'll feel a different energy. The sound of running water will be with you, even before you get to the site. The trees surround you, and everything feels calm. It’s as if nature itself is talking to you.
As you walk, you’ll slowly realize it’s a hidden place. It’s no wonder they called it the "Inca Baths." Once you’re at the site, you’ll marvel at the genius behind its construction. You’ll want to learn more about its history.
To enhance your experience, I recommend visiting the nearby sites. Discover the true spirit of the Incas and immerse yourself in their ancient world.