Peru's 10 Must-See Ancient Ruins Sites

Peru Ruins — Peru is home to some of the most iconic and fascinating ancient ruins in the world, particularly due to its rich Inca heritage and pre-Inca civilizations.

While Machu Picchu remains the most visited set of ancient ruins in Peru, many other also exist. All display the marvelous skills of the early civilization. From the array of stones that fit together like jigsaw puzzles to the elaborate water and plumbing systems, these locations continue attracting visitors from thousands of miles around.

1. Machu Picchu

Lying in the saddle between two peaks approximately 2,000 feet above ground, the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu remain the most famous location in the country. The perfectly carved stones of each community structure fit so neatly together that a knife blade will not pass through. Buildings, ramps, terraces and walls blend magically into the landscape that once served as home to around 1,000 residents. The hundreds of terraces not only maintained the soil used for agriculture, but additionally provided a unique irrigation system.

Machu-Picchu-Peru- — The most famous ancient ruin in Peru, Machu Picchu is a 15th-century Incan city that is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. It is renowned for its sophisticated dry-stone construction, terraced agricultural systems, and stunning panoramic views.

2. Sacsahuaman

The massive complex stands above the city of Cusco and archeologists ponder whether the location served as a royal home, fortress or a combination of both. Constructed in an unusual zigzag pattern, the walls contain stones amassing around 300 tons each. The massive precision cut stones do not exist in other ancient structures.

Sacsahuaman Peru — Sacsayhuamán is a ceremonial complex with impressive megalithic walls built by the Incas. The site is characterized by massive stones, some weighing more than 100 tons, perfectly fitted together without mortar.

3. Vitcos-Yurak Rumi

Hiram Bingham arrived in Peru in 1911 in search of this ancient settlement. The front of the impressive palace measures over 200 feet in width. The doorways boast elaborate stonework. The major attraction here remains the Yurak Rumi, a carved granite boulder approximately the size of a bus. The formation likely served as a holy shrine for the Incans.

Vitcos-Yurak Rumi Peru — Vitcos-Yurak Rumi is an important archaeological site located in the Andes of Peru, in the region of the Sacred Valley, near the town of Vilcabamba. This site holds significant historical importance, particularly in relation to the Inca Empire.

4. Pisac

These ruins lie less than one hour northeast of Cusco and stand above the Urubamba River. The features of the area include a number of picturesque concentrically curved terraces used for agricultural purposes. Religious buildings appear similar to the temples found at Machu Picchu. A series of carved rocks were likely used for tracking astronomical constellations.

Pisac Peru — Pisac is an ancient Inca town and archaeological site located in the Sacred Valley of Peru, near the town of Pisac, in the Andes mountains. It is a key destination for travelers interested in Inca history and culture, and it is renowned for its well-preserved ruins, breathtaking views, and rich cultural heritage.

5. Ollantaytambo

Sometime during 1536, the Incans defeated the Spaniards at this location. The historic community bears the original walls that line an intricately designed street grid. In addition to protecting the perimeter of the community, the walls protected groups of homes and surrounded town courtyards. Stone terraces covered with pink granite slabs overlook the town and may have served as a military outlook.

Ollantaytambo Peru — An ancient Incan site that served as a military, religious, and agricultural center. The site is known for its well-preserved terracing and monumental structures, including a large ceremonial platform.

6. Cusco and the Koricancha

Once considered the center of the world, four roads sprawled out from the holy city and divided the Incan Empire into four quarters. Though Spaniards laid waste to most of the buildings, the walls remain standing. The sun temple Koricancha also still stands. When the Spanish invaded, the exterior temple walls bore sheets of gold.

Cusco and the Koricancha Peru — Cusco and the Koricancha (also known as the Temple of the Sun) are both integral to Peru's rich Inca heritage and offer an unparalleled glimpse into the heart of the Inca Empire.

7. Moray

This site exhibits the advanced landscaping skills of the ancient Incans. Here visitors find three gigantic pits that extend more than 100 feet deep and lie surrounded by expertly carved terraces made of earth. Temperatures vary by 20 degrees from the top of the destination to the depths of each pit. The unique design made it possible to grow crops with varying environmental needs.

Moray Peru — Moray is one of the most fascinating and enigmatic archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley of Peru, located about 50 km (31 miles) northwest of Cusco. The site consists of a series of concentric circular terraces that are often associated with agricultural experimentation, but its exact purpose remains a subject of debate among archaeologists.

8. Choquequirao

Commonly considered the sister city to Machu Picchu, many believe the location actually exceeds the famous site in size. Archeologists have only uncovered around one-third of the site. Possibly the home of an important ruler, the destination has unusual features that include llamas carved from stone. Reaching the ruins requires navigating across a steep valley.

Choquequirao Peru — The site remains less accessible and less developed than Machu Picchu, making it a more remote and adventurous destination. Some believe Choquequirao was a retreat or sanctuary for the Inca royalty.

9. Tipon

The Incans constructed this 500-acre location around an existing spring close to Cusco. The buildings appear similar to those found at Machu Picchu, as each boasts trapezoid shaped entrances. The ingenious engineering skills of the stones become apparent as one explores the irrigation channels and baths that continue functioning. Water still flows through the area.

Tipon Peru — Tipon is an important archaeological site located in the Sacred Valley of Peru, just south of Cusco. Renowned for its impressive agricultural terraces and sophisticated water management system, Tipon is one of the lesser-known but equally captivating Inca sites in the region.

10. Huchuy Cusco

The town name means “little Cusco” and probably functioned as a royal complex. Expertly crafted buildings remain standing and the destination offers spectacular views over the Sacred Valley. From Cusco, authentic Incan stone roads make the uphill journey through scenic gorges.