Q'enqo
Inca shrine · Above Cusco, Cusco

Q'enqo

Photo: Esmée Winnubst · CC BY 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Q'enqo is a sacred Inca shrine carved into a natural limestone outcrop, with narrow passages, zigzag channels and an underground chamber thought to have been used for rituals. It is small but unusual, and pairs easily with Sacsayhuamán nearby.

On day 2 of Cusco and Machu Picchu in 5 days

Good to know

Time to spend
30–45 minutes
Tickets
Paid entry; covered by the Boleto Turístico (Circuit I or full ticket)
Best time
Morning, as part of a loop with the other sites above Cusco
Getting there
About 15 minutes' walk from Sacsayhuamán, or by taxi or city tour

Itineraries with Q'enqo

Day 2 of Cusco and Machu Picchu in 5 days

The ruins above the city

How Q'enqo fits into a day.
  1. 8:30SacsayhuamánAbove Cusco
  2. 11:00Q'enqoAbove Cusco
  3. 12:30Puka PukaraAbove Cusco
  4. 13:30TambomachayAbove Cusco
See all 5 days
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Q'enqo questions

What was Q'enqo used for?

It is believed to have been a ceremonial site, possibly linked to offerings and mummification rites. The carved channels may have carried chicha or blood during rituals.

Is Q'enqo worth visiting?

It is a quick stop, and since it is on the same ticket and route as Sacsayhuamán, most visitors include it.

More places on this trip