From Ayacucho: Tour to Vilcashuaman, the Inca Route

Uncover the captivating history of the Inca civilization with a guided tour to Vilcashuamán. This immersive 12-hour excursion departs from Ayacucho, offering skip-the-line access and an up-close look at the Puyas de Raimondi and Intiwatana archaeological sites. Along the way, knowledgeable guides share insights into the Inca’s remarkable achievements. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a cultural adventure, this tour promises an engaging and memorable experience.

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Key Points

This 12-hour tour departs from Ayacucho’s Plaza de Armas and includes key Inca archaeological sites like Puyas de Raimondi and Intiwatana complex.
The tour price starts at $30 per person and includes entrance fees and transportation to the sites.
A live Spanish-speaking guide provides commentary, and skip-the-ticket-line privileges are included.
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to the rugged terrain and requires a reasonable level of physical ability.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, but late arrivals or no-shows will not receive a refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour to Vilcashuaman from Ayacucho is priced from $30.00 per person and lasts 12 hours.

Travelers can reserve now and pay later. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour departs from the Plaza de Armas and includes visits to the Puyas de Raimondi, Intiwatana archaeological complex, and the Inca city of Vilcashuamán.

Entrance fees and transportation are included. A live Spanish-speaking guide will lead the tour, and guests can skip the ticket lines.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and it returns to Ayacucho around 7:00 PM.

Looking for more options in Ayacucho? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Highlights

Starting from the Plaza de Armas, the tour takes visitors to several key highlights along the way.

First, they’ll explore the Puyas de Raimondi, a site known for its towering "titankas".

Next, they’ll visit the archaeological complex of Intiwatana, which includes the Pumacocha Lagoon, Torreón del Inca, Portada del Sol, Baños del Inca, Acllahuasi, and Intihuatana.

The tour then moves on to the Inca Archaeological City of Vilcashuamán, where they’ll see the Temple of the Sun and Moon, Plaza Pachacutec, and the Ushno.

The Inca Archaeological City of Vilcashuamán showcases the Temple of the Sun and Moon, Plaza Pachacutec, and the Ushno.

The tour returns to Ayacucho around 7:00 PM.

Tour Features

This tour features a live tour guide who provides commentary in Spanish. The tour also includes skip-the-ticket-line privileges and entrance tickets that cost s/15 per person. Transportation to and from the main sites is provided as part of the package.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Live Tour Guide | Provides commentary in Spanish |

| Skip Ticket Line | Bypass long queues |

| Entrance Tickets | Cost s/15 per person |

| Transportation | Included to/from main sites |

| Duration | 12 hours |

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to the rugged terrain and ancient sites. This tour offers a comprehensive Inca experience with convenient inclusions.

Meeting and Cancellation Policy

Travelers meet at the main square of Ayacucho at the scheduled pickup time for the tour.

The tour operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour departs, allowing guests to get a full refund if plans change. This flexible policy gives travelers peace of mind when booking.

Travelers can cancel their booking up to 24 hours before departure and receive a full refund, providing peace of mind when planning their trip.

Late arrivals or no-shows won’t be refunded.

The tour requires a minimum number of participants to run, so the operator reserves the right to cancel or reschedule the tour if the minimum isn’t met.

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Accessibility

The tour to Vilcashuaman isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

The archaeological sites and uneven terrain make it challenging for those with mobility issues to fully experience the tour. Visitors should be prepared for walking on cobblestone paths and climbing steps to access the key highlights.

While the tour company aims to be inclusive, the nature of the destinations means they can’t accommodate wheelchair users.

Travelers with special needs are advised to consider alternative tours or plan for additional assistance.

The focus of this experience is on exploring the Inca ruins, which requires a reasonable level of physical ability.

There's plenty more to explore in Ayacucho

The Archaeological City of Vilcashuamán

Nestled in the Andes mountains, the Inca Archaeological City of Vilcashuamán stands as a testament to the engineering prowess and spiritual beliefs of the ancient Inca civilization.

At the heart of the site is the Temple of the Sun and Moon, where the Incas worshipped their solar deity. Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins, including the Plaza Pachacutec and the Ushno, an impressive ceremonial platform.

The site offers a glimpse into the Inca’s advanced construction techniques and their deep connection to the natural world. Exploring Vilcashuamán is a must for anyone interested in Inca history and culture.

Puyas De Raimondi and the Archaeological Complex of Intiwatana

On the journey to Vilcashuamán, travelers first encounter the Puyas de Raimondi, a unique and captivating natural wonder.

These giant bromeliad plants, nicknamed "titankas," tower up to 10 meters high and are found only in certain parts of Peru.

The tour then continues to the archaeological complex of Intiwatana, home to the Pumacocha Lagoon, Torreón del Inca, Portada del Sol, Baños del Inca, Acllahuasi, and the iconic Intihuatana.

These Inca ruins showcase the impressive engineering and architectural prowess of the empire, providing a glimpse into their religious and cultural practices.

Getting to Ayacucho and the Meeting Point

Travelers can reach Ayacucho, the starting point of the tour, by various means of transportation. The city is accessible by bus, plane, or even rental car. To meet the tour group, guests should gather at the main square of Ayacucho at the pickup time.

| — | — | — | — |

| Bus | 7-9 hours | $10-$20 | Moderate |

The tour operator provides clear instructions for the meeting point, ensuring a seamless start to the Vilcashuaman adventure.

Things To Know

What Level of Physical Fitness Is Required for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t require a high level of physical fitness, but some walking and hiking is involved. Participants should be able to walk for several hours and traverse uneven terrain. Overall, a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. However, it’s suitable for most travelers, though not recommended for young children or the elderly due to the 12-hour duration and some physically demanding activities.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour package doesn’t include meals, so bringing snacks and water is recommended to stay hydrated and energized during the 12-hour excursion.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t offer any student or senior discounts. However, the overall price of $30 per person is already quite reasonable for the 12-hour tour with transportation and entrance ticket included.

Can I Purchase Additional Services During the Tour, Such as a Guided Hike?

Customers can’t purchase additional services during the tour, as it has a fixed itinerary and inclusions. However, they can inquire about any optional add-ons when booking the tour, which may include guided hikes or other activities.

Sum Up

This tour offers an immersive exploration of Inca culture, providing an opportunity to discover the rich history and breathtaking sites of Vilcashuamán. With knowledgeable guides, skip-the-line privileges, and all transportation and fees included, it ensures a comfortable and engaging experience for participants. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking to uncover the wonders of the Inca civilization, this tour is a must-consider for your Ayacucho itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: