Sacsayhuamán

Pronounced “sexy woman,” the Sacsayhuamán ruins on the outskirts of Cusco can be compared to the pyramids at Giza, in that they testify to the incredible ingenuity and organizational power of the region’s ancient cultures. Machu Picchu may be more famous, but many find this site equally impressive. It is believed that more than 20,000 men worked for more than seven decades on the structure, a puma’s head to guard the capital. If you don’t visit with a knowledgeable guide, be sure to get a great guide book to understand the history and steer you to the points of interest.