Ñaupa Iglesia Ceremonial Center

Ñaupa Iglesia is a place full of mystery in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Just a short distance from Ollantaytambo, we can visit this incredible site, whose name translates to “ancient church,” referring to the ceremonial importance it held during the Inca era. Learn more about Ñaupa Iglesia and add it to your itinerary when visiting Cusco.

Contents

• What will I find at Ñaupa Iglesia?
• Where is Ñaupa Iglesia?
• What is the journey to Ñaupa Iglesia like?
• Tours to the Ñaupa Iglesia Ceremonial Center
  • Independent Option
  • Customized Tour Option
• Tips for your visit to Ñaupa Iglesia
• Frequently Asked Questions

What will I find at Ñaupa Iglesia?

The Ñaupa Iglesia ceremonial center is located on the side of a mountain, where we can find several structures charged with powerful energy. In the middle of the site, we’ll find a huaca (sacred place), which is evidence of Ñaupa Iglesia’s significance to the Inca culture.

We also see within a portal, so finely carved it almost seems magical—people often place their hands on it to feel its energy. Among other constructions, we’ll find a ceremonial wall with niches that date back to pre-Inca times, further highlighting its importance.

Another construction that will catch our attention is a small house that seems to have been built for children or very small people—inside, we’ll see another huaca. Along the way, we’ll come across stairways and terraces that offer a beautiful view of Ñaupa Iglesia.

Ñaupa Iglesia is surrounded by deep mysticism, which leads many visitors to seek a spot for meditation, rituals, or simply to relax. Since this site was once associated with worship activities, it is still believed to hold special energetic properties.

Where is Ñaupa Iglesia?

The Ñaupa Iglesia ceremonial center is located in the community of Pachar, just a few minutes from Ollantaytambo. During your visit, you’ll also be able to take in much of the Sacred Valley.

To reach Ñaupa Iglesia, you can choose to depart from Cusco, which takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. If you leave from Ollantaytambo, it takes around 15 minutes by car.

The journey also includes a short hike of about 15 minutes along a straight path followed by a steady climb via stone steps. From the top—and along the entire route—you’ll be surrounded by stunning landscapes and the lush flora of the valley.

What is the journey to Ñaupa Iglesia like?

The path to the Ñaupa Iglesia ceremonial center is not very long. It begins where the car drops you off at the main road—there’s a stop named after the site, making it easy to find. From there, you’ll begin a short walk along narrow paths and beside train tracks, surrounded at all times by rich vegetation.

After a brief straight walk, you’ll begin the ascent to the mountain where Ñaupa Iglesia is located. It’s a bit demanding, but since it’s only a 10-minute climb and can be done at a relaxed pace, it’s manageable. There are two paths to reach the final stretch—one is longer but safer, while the other is shorter but has very small steps, which adds to the mystical feel of the place.

Tours to the Ñaupa Iglesia Ceremonial Center

Visiting the Ñaupa Iglesia Ceremonial Center is not usually part of traditional tourist routes, but there is always a way to experience it through a more immersive and detailed visit. That’s why we present two available options for exploring this incredible and magical place.

• Independent Option

  To visit Ñaupa Iglesia, it’s not necessary to know the route in detail—the path is very short and easy to follow. Thanks to this, you can go on your own without any issues, as it only depends on the mode of transportation you choose to get to the entrance of the site. It is possible to do it independently, but we recommend going with a companion to enhance the experience—sharing this type of adventure adds even more value to the destination.

• Customized Tour Option

  If you want a safer and more informative experience, you have the option to go with us. We also offer you the chance to plan the tour based on your preferences. You’ll be able to decide your itinerary—whether you want to go early in the morning, visit more places, or choose any combination that suits you best. This way, you can make the most of your trip to Cusco while also exploring the mystical Ñaupa Iglesia ceremonial center.

Tips for Your Visit to Ñaupa Iglesia

To have a better experience exploring the Ñaupa Iglesia ceremonial center, we’ll give you some tips, details, and recommendations. This way, you’ll be more prepared and can visit the site confidently, knowing you’re ready for everything. Discover each of them below:

• Ñaupa Iglesia translates to “ancient church,” referring to the site’s historical and ceremonial importance.
• The Sacred Valley of the Incas is an ideal place to acclimate during your first days in Cusco, thanks to its elevation of approximately 2,900 meters above sea level, offering a mild climate.
• You can visit Ñaupa Iglesia at any time of day—there is no entry checkpoint or registration required.
• Bring plenty of water and snacks for the hike. From the top, you can enjoy a peaceful day to relax.
• If you visit Ñaupa Iglesia during the dry season (April to October), you’ll enjoy sunnier and clearer weather, offering colorful landscapes.
• During the rainy season (November to March) in the Sacred Valley and Ñaupa Iglesia, there is a higher chance of rainfall.
• Explore Ñaupa Iglesia slowly, taking in each of the site’s magical constructions—don’t forget to get close to them to feel their energy.
• Visiting Ñaupa Iglesia is a short trip, so we recommend combining it with Ollantaytambo for a more immersive experience.
• Entry to Ñaupa Iglesia is completely free.
• Remember that you can plan your Sacred Valley tour the way you prefer. Talk to our advisors to discover all the available options for your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

• 1. What is Ñaupa Iglesia?

  Ñaupa Iglesia is an ancient ceremonial center located in the Sacred Valley, associated with rituals and worship activities during the Inca culture era.

• 2. What will I find when visiting Ñaupa Iglesia?

  During your visit, you will see a central huaca (sacred place), a magnificently carved ceremonial portal, a wall with niches from the pre-Inca period, and a small house.

• 3. Where is Ñaupa Iglesia located?

  Ñaupa Iglesia is located in the community of Pachar, a short distance from Ollantaytambo. It is situated on the slope of a mountain, from where you can enjoy beautiful views of the Sacred Valley.

• 4. How do I get to Ñaupa Iglesia?

  You can get there from Cusco in 1 hour and 30 minutes or from Ollantaytambo in 15 minutes by vehicle. Then, you will need to walk along a straight path and climb stone steps for about 10 to 15 minutes.

• 5. What is the hike to Ñaupa Iglesia like?

  The hike is short and easy, including a section next to the train tracks, followed by an ascent up stone stairs.

• 6. Can I visit Ñaupa Iglesia on my own?

  Yes, entry is free and the path is easy to find. Still, we recommend going with a companion for greater safety and a better experience.

• 7. How long does it take to visit Ñaupa Iglesia?

  The visit is short and can be completed in less than an hour. Therefore, it is recommended to combine it with other Sacred Valley destinations.

• 8. Is there a cost to enter Ñaupa Iglesia?

  No, entry is completely free. There are no tickets or mandatory registrations, making it an excellent option to visit.

• 9. Is Ñaupa Iglesia a suitable site for meditation or rituals?

  Yes, due to its significance as a ceremonial site and the energy many people claim to feel there, Ñaupa Iglesia is considered ideal for meditation or performing Andean rituals with respect to the environment.

• 10. What are the opening hours of Ñaupa Iglesia?

  There are no set hours at Ñaupa Iglesia; entry is free and unrestricted. However, it is recommended to visit during daylight to avoid risks during the ascent and to better appreciate the surroundings.