Vitcos and Vilcabamba Full Day Tour

Embark on a full-day journey from Cusco to the district of Vilcabamba to explore the remarkable Vitcos archaeological complex, home to the last palaces of the final Inka rulers. Vitcos, also known as Rosaspata, was the capital of the Neo-Inca State and a refuge for Inca resistance against the Spanish between 1537 and 1572. Located in the remote and rugged Vilcabamba region of Peru, it served as a royal residence, ceremonial center, and strategic stronghold during the final years of the Inca Empire. The Incas retreated to this inaccessible region to continue their resistance, with Vitcos playing a central role. Vitcos was the residence of the last legitimate Inca rulers: Manco Inca Yupanqui, Sayri Túpac Inca, Titu Cusi Yupanqui, and Túpac Amaru I. The complex features impressive constructions such as Yuraq Rumi (“White Rock”), a large carved white stone with a natural spring, central to Inca ceremonial life and the site of an important negotiation with the Spanish.

We pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 4:00 am and travel through the Sacred Valley to Abra Málaga (4,316 masl / 14,160 ft), the highest point on the route to Vilcabamba. We descend through the Lucumayo Valley, cross the Vilcanota River at Chaullay, and continue to Huancacalle for breakfast. From Huancacalle, we hike to the Vitcos archaeological complex, linked to the final Inca resistance. Here, Manco Inca Yupanqui—installed as ruler in 1533 under Francisco Pizarro—was assassinated in 1544 after leading a rebellion in 1536 and establishing the Neo-Inca State in Vilcabamba. His son Túpac Amaru I continued the resistance until his capture in 1571 and execution in Cusco in 1572. At 2,700 masl (8,860 ft), your guide explains the history of the Vilcabamba Valley. In Vitcos (Rosaspata), we visit the main plaza, ceremonial sector, the Wanka, and Yuraq Rumi with Chakana carvings. After lunch, we arrive in Cusco around 7:00 pm.