Explore 5 archaeological complexes in Calca: Urqo, Ankashmarka, Calispuquio, Huchuy Qosqo and Pisac. Plus thermal baths and how to visit from Cusco.
The province of Calca, located northeast of Cusco in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, is home to some of the region's lesser-known but most fascinating archaeological complexes. Unlike more touristic sites like Ollantaytambo or Pisac, these complexes offer a more authentic and peaceful experience, away from the crowds.
Where is Calca located?
Calca is 50 km northeast of Cusco, between the towns of Pisac and Urubamba, at an altitude of 2,926 masl. Its pleasant, temperate climate (16°C to 25°C year-round) makes it an ideal destination for archaeological tourism.
How to get to Calca
| From | Distance | Time | Transport | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cusco | 50 km | 1 hour 20 min | Minivan (Puputi Street) | S/ 5 (~$1.50 USD) |
| Pisac | 17 km | 25 min | Colectivo | S/ 3 |
| Urubamba | 20 km | 30 min | Colectivo | S/ 3 |
You can also visit Calca as part of the Sacred Valley Maras Moray Tour, which covers the valley's main sites in one full day.
Archaeological complexes in Calca
1. Urqo Archaeological Complex (2,926 masl)
Just 3 km from Calca, Urqo is an Inca site with impressive agricultural terraces, water channels, and carved figures representing sacred animals like the puma and serpent. Its construction is attributed to Inca Urqo, one of the rulers of the Tahuantinsuyo.
2. Ankashmarka Archaeological Complex (3,850 masl)
Located 23 km from Calca, Ankashmarka is a pre-Inca complex from the Killke culture. It features circular structures and colcas (food storage facilities). Also known as "Blue Village" for the tone of its stones.
3. Calispuquio Archaeological Complex (3,145 masl)
4.3 km from Calca, Calispuquio was an Inca administrative center connected to the Antisuyo road. Its original name, "Kanchispuquio", means "seven springs" in Quechua.
4. Huchuy Qosqo Archaeological Complex
One of the most impressive and least visited sites in the Sacred Valley. Located 8.8 km from Calca, Huchuy Qosqo ("Little Cusco" in Quechua) was the residence of Inca Wiracocha. The complex features stone terraces, fine masonry walls, and adobe structures.
It is accessible via a half-day trekking hike, and some operators offer a multi-day route connecting Huchuy Qosqo with the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
5. Pisac Archaeological Complex
Part of the area's archaeological circuit at 27.3 km from Calca. The Pisac ruins are famous for their multiple neighborhoods, ceremonial plazas, and the Intihuatana (Inca sundial).
Visit Pisac as part of the Sacred Valley Full Day Tour, including transport, bilingual guide, and entrance fees from $55 USD.
Thermal baths near Calca
Machacancha Thermal Baths
Located 7 km from Calca, reaching 40°C with therapeutic properties for bone diseases. Perfect for recovery after a day of hiking.
Minas Moqo Thermal Baths
Temperatures between 15°C and 20°C in a recreational complex surrounded by mountains.
How to include Calca in your itinerary
- Sacred Valley Full Day Tour — Visit Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero with bilingual guide (from $55 USD)
- Sacred Valley + Maras Moray Tour — Includes Maras salt mines and Moray circular terraces
- Cusco + Sacred Valley + Machu Picchu 3 Days — The complete experience combining the best of Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu
Calca is a hidden gem of the Sacred Valley. Its archaeological complexes, thermal baths, and temperate climate make it the perfect destination for those seeking authentic Peru, away from mass tourism.
