Tour to Vilcashuamán, the Inca City | Raimondi’s Puyas | Full Day
DESCRIPTION
The Tour to Vilcashuamán, the Inca City | Raimondi’s Puyas | Full Day is an ideal cultural and archaeological experience for discovering one of the main administrative centers of the Tahuantinsuyo. Located approximately 115–120 km from the city of Ayacucho, at an elevation of about 3,490 m above sea level, Vilcashuamán stands out for its impressive Inca architecture, ceremonial structures, and setting amidst the Andean mountains. During the tour, travelers explore sites such as the ceremonial Ushnu, the Main Plaza, the Temple of the Sun and the Moon, and the Site Museum—places that offer insight into the historical and spiritual significance of this ancient Inca city. Additionally, the Andean landscape provides excellent opportunities for photography and engagement with local traditions. The Tour to Vilcashuamán, the Inca City, is an excellent option for archaeological tourism in Ayacucho for those who wish to explore the history, culture, architecture, and ancestral legacy of the Inca Empire.
ITINERARY
Itinerary
The Tour to Vilcashuamán, the Inca City | Raimondi’s Puyas | Full Day begins at the Plaza de Armas in Ayacucho with a transfer to Pumaccocha, passing through rural landscapes and Andean mountains. During the trip, there is a stop to visit Raimondi’s Puyas, highlighting their ecological importance and uniqueness in the Andes. The route then continues to the Pumaccocha and Intihuatana Archaeological Complex, where you’ll visit the Baños del Inca, the Portada del Sol, the artificial lagoon, and the ceremonial Intihuatana. After lunch in Vischongo, the tour continues to the Vilcashuamán Archaeological Complex, where you’ll explore the Ushnu, the Sillón del Inca, and the Temple of the Sun and Moon—the main ruins of this ancient Inca city. Finally, the group returns to Ayacucho, bringing to a close a full-day cultural and archaeological tour that combines history, nature, Andean culture, and the Inca legacy in Ayacucho.
INCLUDED
What’s Included?
Tourist Transportation
Comfortable and safe transportation from Ayacucho to Pumaccocha and Vilcashuamán and back.
Professional Driver
Driver with experience on Andean routes and knowledge of the itinerary.
Professional tour guide in Spanish
Guided tour featuring historical, cultural, and archaeological information.
Optional English-speaking guide
Available as a private tour, upon request and subject to availability.
NOT INCLUDED
What’s Not Included?
Pickup from the hotel
The group tour begins at the meeting point. Pickup is available only for private tours.
Meals
Breakfast and lunch are not included. Lunch is on your own in Vischongo.
Personalized Service
Personalized care is available only through private insurance.
Tourist Admission Fees
Admission fees for Pumaccocha and Vilcashuamán are not included and must be paid directly at each attraction.
Return to the Hotel
The group tour ends near the Plaza de Armas. Transportation back to the hotel is available only as a private service.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Recommendations
Before the tour
Get plenty of rest, and if you’re coming from a low-altitude area, acclimate yourself in Ayacucho. Bring cash for admission tickets, lunch, and personal expenses.
Clothing and Footwear
Wear layers, a windbreaker or rain jacket, and hiking shoes with good traction.
Sun Protection
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a cap or hat to protect yourself from the sun’s rays at high altitudes.
Hydration and Food
Bring at least 1 liter of water and some light snacks. Lunch in Vischongo is on your own.
Health and Altitude
Walk at a leisurely pace and let the guide know if you feel dizzy or tired.
During your visit
Please stay on the trails and respect the archaeological structures. Keep your distance from the Puyas de Raimondi and avoid touching them.
Caring for the Environment
Do not litter, and respect the flora, fauna, and cultural heritage.
Money and Expenses
Be sure to budget for the entrance fees to Pumaccocha (S/ 10) and Vilcashuamán (S/ 5), as well as lunch and personal expenses.
FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Full-Day Tour to Vilcashuamán include?
It includes tourist transportation, a professional driver, and a Spanish-speaking guide from Ayacucho to Pumaccocha, Vilcashuamán, and back.
Does the tour include meals?
No. Breakfast and lunch are not included. Lunch is at your own expense in Vischongo.
Where does the tour start?
At Portal Constitución No. 09, Plaza de Armas of Ayacucho. Hotel pickup is available only for private tours.
How long does the tour last?
Approximately 12 hours, from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Do we visit the Puyas de Raimondi?
Yes. The tour includes a stop to observe these iconic Andean plants.
What archaeological sites are visited?
Pumaccocha and the Inca city of Vilcashuamán, including the Ushno, Inca’s Throne, and Temple of the Sun and Moon.
Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, for travelers with basic physical fitness. Extra care is recommended for older adults due to the altitude.
At what altitude does the tour take place?
Vilcashuamán is approximately 3,490 m above sea level, while Pumaccocha is around 3,126 m.
How much do the tickets cost?
They are not included. Pumaccocha costs S/ 10 and Vilcashuamán S/ 5 per person.
Is there an English-speaking guide?
The group tour is in Spanish. English guiding is available only for private tours.
What should I bring?
Comfortable layered clothing, sturdy shoes, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, water, and snacks.
Does the tour end at the hotel?
No. Group tours end near the Plaza de Armas. Hotel drop-off is available only for private tours.