Saqsaywaman

Saqsaywaman is an awe-inspiring ancient Inca fortress where kids can explore massive stone walls fitted together without mortar, some weighing over 100 tons. The site offers easy-to-moderate walking paths with breathtaking views over Cusco, making history come alive as children climb on ancient stones and imagine life in the Inca Empire. It's an outdoor classroom where families can combine adventure, exercise, and cultural education in one spectacular setting.

• ✓Massive zigzag stone walls with blocks weighing up to 120 tons, perfectly fitted without mortar
• ✓Three ceremonial platforms offering panoramic 360-degree views of Cusco and surrounding mountains
• ✓Large open grassy areas perfect for kids to run and play between exploring ruins
• ✓Natural rock slides and carved stone thrones where children love to pose for photos
• ✓Llamas and alpacas often grazing nearby, delighting younger visitors

1. 1.Arrive right when it opens at 7:00 AM to avoid crowds and the midday sun. The morning light is perfect for photos and kids have more energy before altitude effects kick in.
2. 2.Purchase the Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turistico) which includes Saqsaywaman and other nearby ruins. It's more economical than individual entry and valid for 10 days.
3. 3.Bring plenty of water, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), and snacks. Cusco sits at 11,150 feet, and the site is even higher with limited shade and no food vendors inside.
4. 4.Hire a local guide at the entrance to bring the history alive for kids. They share fascinating stories about Inca engineering and can point out features children might otherwise miss.
5. 5.Let kids climb on the lower stone walls in designated areas, but supervise closely as there are steep drops and uneven surfaces throughout the site.

Visit early morning (7:00-9:00 AM) on weekdays, particularly Tuesday through Thursday. You'll beat tour bus crowds, enjoy cooler temperatures, and have better lighting for photos. The dry season (May to September) offers the most reliable weather.

Entry requires the Cusco Tourist Ticket (approximately $45 USD for adults, $23 for students with ID, children under 10 often free). The site is a 20-minute uphill taxi ride from central Cusco or a 45-minute walk. Bathrooms are available at the entrance but not within the ruins.

Open year-round, but the dry season (May to September) is ideal for families with clearer skies and less muddy paths. The rainy season (November to March) brings afternoon showers, so visit in the morning. June 24th features the spectacular Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun) celebration at Saqsaywaman, but it's extremely crowded.

Head back to Cusco's San Blas neighborhood (10 minutes by taxi) for family-friendly options like Jack's Cafe, known for generous portions and familiar foods kids enjoy, or Green Point, a vegetarian restaurant with a kids menu and playground area.