If you're looking for an alternative to the classic Cusco destinations (Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, Rainbow Mountain), the Tecsecocha cliffs are an excellent option. This destination combines beautiful Andean landscapes with mysticism and history. There, you can enjoy a refreshing 50-meter-high waterfall. There are also cave paintings from cultures dating back 2,000 years. Adventure sports are even available. Learn more about this innovative Cusco destination.
Description
The Tecsecocha cliffs are rock formations that reach up to 80 meters in height. In addition to the impressive composition of this site, they are notable for their 50-meter waterfall.
The site was an important Inca settlement, as evidenced by the historic paths (qhapac ñan) that crisscross the route. It is also notable for the cave paintings located nearby. Research dates these figures back up to two thousand years.
Likewise, at the base of the cliffs, there are remains of an Inca cemetery. Therefore, many visitors come here for "mystical tourism" in this very special place.
The cliffs are also frequented by visitors looking for adventure sports such as cycling, via ferrata, hiking, and more.
The area is very well maintained by the local population. There are well-maintained trails leading to it. Along the route, you can also appreciate the Andean flora and fauna. Admission is free, making it an excellent budget-friendly alternative in Cusco.
Where are they located?
The Tecsecocha cliffs are located in the town of Ccorca, just 23 kilometers by car from the city of Cusco (approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes).
The Tecsecocha cliffs are located 3,600 meters above sea level.
The Anahuarque and Huanacaure snow-capped mountains rise in the distance from the cliffs. The guardian Apu of the site is Mama Simona.
How to get there?
Tours include round-trip transportation to the Tecsecocha cliffs. If you wish to go on your own, follow these steps:
Take a taxi or public transportation to the "Entrada" bus stop (in front of the Repsol gas station) on Antonio Lorena Avenue.
Collective taxis are available at this stop, which will take you to the entrance to the Tecsecocha cliffs for 5 Peruvian soles (approximately US$2).
After an average of 1 hour, you will arrive at the entrance to the cliffs. From there, you will walk for approximately 15 minutes. The special feature of the route is that it crosses historic Inca trails. Along the way, you will also see beautiful mountains, streams, and more.
Finally, you'll reach the Tecsecocha cliffs. To return to Cusco, follow the same route as the outward journey.
The Waterfalls
From a rock formation almost 50 meters high, you can see a waterfall that is Tecsecocha's main tourist attraction.
The Municipality of Ccorca has implemented paths, wooden stairs, tables, and sculptures to enhance the visitor experience.
The main waterfall ends in a beautiful chacana-shaped structure where visitors can refresh themselves.
The chacana is known as the "Andean cross." It represents the Inca worldview of the three worlds: hanan pacha (the celestial world), kay pacha (the earthly world), and uku pacha (the underworld).
The Cave Paintings
The cave paintings of Tecsecocha are up to two thousand years old. The figures depict llamas, probably the animal that served as food for the first human hunters of Cusco.
The cave paintings are located a 15-minute walk from the town of Ccorca. They are well preserved.
The Inca Cemetery
Nearby the site are the remains of what was once an important Inca cemetery. The Incas buried their dead inside a hole in the rocks. The deceased were buried along with their most precious personal belongings.
The Incas settled there between 1100 AD and 1534 AD. When the Spanish arrived at the end of the 16th century, the cemetery was looted.
However, many visitors still come here today to leave offerings of coca leaves, beer, and more.
The presence of this cemetery, as well as a section of Inca roads, indicate that the site was an important point in the immense Inca empire.
Flora and Fauna
The visit also offers an insight into the diverse Andean flora and fauna.
During the hike, you can appreciate different types of trees, plants, and flowers such as eucalyptus, molles, kantu, queñua, mutuy, ferns, and more.
Among the most representative wildlife species are the llama, alpaca, Andean condor, Andean sparrow, Andean fox, cow, sheep, and more.
How much does it cost to go?
One-day tours to the Tecsecocha cliffs range in price from $10 to $20 per tourist. They include transportation and a tour guide.
Many visitors also choose to go on their own. The cost of this adventure without a tour is approximately $10 per person.
Remember that admission to the Tecsecocha cliffs is completely free.
Climate
The climate in Ccorca and the Tecsecocha cliffs is temperate to cold, with periods of drought and intense rain.
During the day, temperatures can reach a maximum of 22°C, while at night, temperatures can drop to as low as 0°C.
The rainy season runs from November to March, especially in February (the wettest season in all of Cusco). Similarly, the dry season runs from April to October. This means that rain is unlikely during these months, making it easier to visit. The driest months are June and July.
