Llactapata Ruins (View point to Machu Picchu)
LLACTAPATA RUINS
In the Quechua language, Llaqta means place (village, town, city, country, nation), pata means elevated placed above a bank (of a river), shore, pronounced ‘yakta-pahta’, is an archaeological site about 5km (3.1 mi) west of Machu Picchu.
The complex is located in the Cusco Region Santa Teresa District, high on a ridge between the Ahobamba and Santa Teresa drainages. It appears to be the site originally reported by Hiram Bingham with the same name. Although the site was little explored by Bingham, it was more extensively explored and mapped by the Thomson and Ziegler expedition of 2003.
Bingham first discovered Llaqtapata in 1912. “We found evidence that some Inca chieftain had built his home here and had included in the plan about ten or twelve buildings.” Bingham locates the site “on top of a ridge between the valleys of the Aobamba and the Salkantay Trek Peru, about 5,000 feet above the estate of Huaquina.” “Here we discovered a number of ruins and two or three modern huts. The Indians said that the place was called Llacta Pata.” Bingham did not investigate the ruins thoroughly, however, and they were not studied again for another 70 years. A mid-2003 study of the site conducted by Thomson and Ziegler concluded that the location of Llaqtapata along the Inca trail 4 days tour suggested that it was an important rest stop and roadside shrine on the journey to Machu Picchu. This and subsequent investigations have revealed an extensive complex of structures and features related to and connected with Machu Picchu by a continuation of the Inca Trail leading onward into the Vilcabamba. Llaqtapata may have been a member of the network of interrelated administrative and ceremonial sites which supported the regional center at Machu Picchu. It probably played an important astronomical function during the ‘Solstices’ and ‘Equinoxes’.
Llactapata Inca Ruins give a fantastic view across to Machu Picchu, from where you may enjoy the strategic location of the citadel and of course the sunset and sunrise over Machu Picchu… This is our camping site on the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu and the Inca Jungle Trek, a specialty of ORANGE NATION… This picture has been taken from Llactapata Inca ruins.
Hike up to the Llactapata ruins and enjoy the great over Machu Picchu!
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Jaffet hasan c
The guys were very efficient throughout the trip and attentive when we arrived at the campsite. The kitchen service was super delicious , the food quality and healthy, dishes suitable for people (vegans) and a buffet that has nothing to envy others.
Their kindness and efficiency are greatly appreciated for this journey to the Inca Way.
Written June 22, 2025
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Glen
We had a great experience doing the 4d3n Inca Trail. Our porters were so hard working and made sure our tents and equipment were always ready for us. The chef Mario was outstanding and prepared restaurant quality vegetarian food everyday. Our guide Carlos made the trip exceptional, always making sure we were informed and making sure we were all enjoying the trail. He went above and beyond to encourage me when I was unwell. He made the trip the best ever. A beautiful and wonderful trek.
Written July 14, 2025
Family
Kendall C
Hiking the Short Inca Trail was hands-down one of the highlights of my entire trip to Peru. This trek is the perfect option if you want a taste of the iconic Inca Trail without committing to the full 4-day hike.
From the moment we started the hike at KM 104 Carlos our guide was amazing and patient. we were surrounded by breathtaking mountain views, lush cloud forests, and fascinating Inca ruins. The trail itself is moderately challenging—expect a steady incline, stone steps, and a bit of cardio—but it’s absolutely doable for anyone with a decent fitness level. The sense of accomplishment when you reach the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) and get your first glimpse of Machu Picchu is
Written July 8, 2025
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