Discover Lamay: Huchuy Qosqo archaeological site, Sirenachayoc waterfall, thermal springs, and the best cuy al palo in the Sacred Valley.
Lamay is one of the most authentic and least touristic districts in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Its name comes from Quechua "Llamaq", meaning "place where llamas dwell." This picturesque town combines pre-Inca and Inca history, unique gastronomy, hidden waterfalls, and one of Cusco's most impressive archaeological sites: Huchuy Qosqo.
Where is Lamay?
Lamay is located 45 km from Cusco (approximately 1 hour by car), between Calca and Pisac, on the banks of the Vilcanota River, at 2,940 masl with a pleasant climate of 12°C to 23°C year-round.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Calca Province, Sacred Valley |
| From Cusco | 45 km (1 hour by car) |
| From Pisac | 12 km (20 min) |
| Altitude | 2,940 masl |
| Climate | 12°C - 23°C, temperate year-round |
5 tourist attractions in Lamay
1. Huchuy Qosqo — The "Little Cusco"
The most important archaeological site in Lamay. Huchuy Qosqo means "Little Cusco" in Quechua and was built by Inca Wiracocha as his royal residence.
What you'll find:
- Perfectly preserved agricultural terraces with panoramic valley views
- Two-story buildings in stone and adobe (very rare in Inca architecture)
- Colcas (storehouses) for meat, potatoes, and cereals
- Sophisticated irrigation system with stone channels
Accessible via a 4-hour trek from Lamay. Can be combined with routes to the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Also mentioned in our Calca archaeological complexes guide.
2. Sirenachayoc Waterfall
Meaning "where there are mermaids" in Quechua. Two water cascades, the main one approximately 10 meters high.
- Best time: November to May (rainy season)
- Access: 30-minute walk from town
- Entrance: S/ 2 (~$0.60 USD)
3. Huispan Grotto
Pilgrimage site honoring the Virgin of Fatima within a natural grotto. Easily accessible from Lamay town.
4. Ccaccato Thermal Springs
4 natural springs at approximately 24°C with therapeutic properties for muscle and joint pain. Great for relaxation after the Huchuy Qosqo trek.
5. Gastronomy: The famous cuy al palo
Lamay is the capital of cuy al palo (roasted guinea pig) in the Sacred Valley. Served with baked noodles, steamed Andean potatoes, and ají panca sauce. Prices from S/ 35-65 (~$10-18 USD). Sundays are the most popular day.
For more food options, see our guide to eating near Cusco's Plaza de Armas.
How to include Lamay in your trip
- Sacred Valley Full Day Tour — from $55 USD
- Sacred Valley + Maras Moray Tour
- Cusco + Sacred Valley + Machu Picchu 3 Days
Lamay is the Sacred Valley that tourists don't know: no crowds, the region's best gastronomy, and an archaeological site that rivals the most famous ones. If you want to see authentic Peru, Lamay awaits.
