Tambomachay

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Tambomachay and its crystal-clear waters

It is an interesting complex of waterways, fountains in the side of a hill. It is thought that the Incas may have used Tambomachay for religious ceremonies, dedicated to the water. Every year in August, the locals gather around the site and perform ceremonial acts, worshipping the water.

It is strongly believed that Tambomachay was a royal bath. The Inca ruler came periodically to this place, leaving part of his followers at the nearby Puca Pucara (Puka Pukara).

At Tambomachay, you will find a liturgical fountain and 3 terraces. The structure has 3 levels and, as common among Inca structures, this construction is also built with perfectly carved unequal shape rocks, without the usage of mortar.

The stones are perfectly finished, tightly sticking together even after centuries.

There are 2 fountains that work non stop, all time of the year, pouring crystal-clear water.

The system still functions and is visited by tourists, not being too far from Cuzco, just 9 km from it and here you can visit 2 sites at once, there's Puca Pucara just 1 km away.

Some tourists drink form the water, but we advise you not to in order to avoid stomach problems! If you don't want to ruin your Peruvian trip with some water born disease, then only drink bottled water.

If you travel to Tambomachay, you won't see large crowds of tourists, so your visit will be quite relaxing.