When it comes to Peru, Machu Picchu gets all the attention. Here is our guide to stunning alternatives to the busy ruins.
Machu Picchu may be the crown jewel of Peru’s Inca heritage, but it’s far from the only site that tells the story of this ancient civilization. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds or discover lesser-known gems, Peru offers a wealth of breathtaking Inca ruins that are equally rich in history and beauty. From the Sacred Valley to high-altitude fortresses, here are some incredible alternatives to visiting Machu Picchu.
1. Pisac: Terraces with a View
Located about 33 kilometers from Cusco, Pisac is famous for its sweeping agricultural terraces that cling to the mountainsides. This Inca complex served both religious and military purposes and was a key defensive outpost guarding the eastern end of the Sacred Valley.
The site includes temples, ceremonial baths, residential quarters, and an impressive Intihuatana – a ritual stone associated with the sun. Today, the nearby town of Pisac also hosts a popular market, blending traditional Andean culture with modern-day charm.
2. Ollantaytambo: The Living Inca Town
Often a stop on the way to Machu Picchu, Ollantaytambo is a destination in its own right. This Inca fortress and temple complex was the site of a rare Inca victory against the Spanish conquistadors.
The massive stone terraces rising above the town were used for defense and agriculture, while the Temple of the Sun showcases the Inca’s remarkable stonework. What makes Ollantaytambo truly unique is that it’s still a living Inca town—its residents use the original Inca-built street grid and water channels to this day.
3. Moray: The Inca Agricultural Laboratory
Just outside the town of Maras, the site of Moray is unlike any other. Its circular terraces, arranged in concentric rings, resemble an amphitheater but served a far more scientific purpose.
Archaeologists believe Moray was an agricultural experiment station where the Incas tested crop varieties at different microclimates. Each terrace level varies in temperature, creating ideal conditions for studying how plants grow in different environments—an incredible example of Inca ingenuity.
4. Choquequirao: The Other Lost City
Often called the “sister city of Machu Picchu,” Choquequirao is one of the most adventurous alternatives. Located deep in the Vilcabamba mountain range, it’s only accessible by a multi-day trek, making it ideal for travelers seeking solitude and stunning mountain vistas.
Larger in area than Machu Picchu, Choquequirao features impressive terraces, ceremonial centers, and panoramic views. Though only partially excavated, it offers an immersive experience into the remote reaches of the Inca empire.
5. Sacsayhuamán: The Stone Giant of Cusco
Towering above Cusco, Sacsayhuamán (pronounced “Sak-say-wah-man”) was a ceremonial and military complex. It’s renowned for its massive zigzagging walls, made from stones weighing up to 200 tons, fitted together so precisely that not even a knife can slide between them.
Sacsayhuamán played a central role in the Inca resistance during the Spanish conquest and remains a symbol of Inca strength and engineering prowess.
Why Skip Machu Picchu?
While Machu Picchu is iconic for good reason, there are many benefits to exploring its alternatives:
- Fewer crowds and a more intimate experience with the ruins
- Greater cultural immersion in local towns and communities
- Unique perspectives on Inca innovation and architecture
Whether you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path adventures or simply want to deepen your understanding of Inca history, these sites offer powerful connections to Peru’s past—without the ticket rush.
For more information, please contact us and we would be happy to help you plan your perfect trip!
