The Sacred Valley of the Incas in Cusco, Peru, has popular spots such as Pisac Archaeological Park, Ollantaytambo town, and Urubamba. However, there’s a village between these two that most visitors overlook, and that village is Calca.
For instance, Calca has stunning scenery, engaging activities, and vibrant traditions. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to see the real Andes away from the crowds.
Calca has something for everyone, whether you want to see ancient ruins, experience gorgeous nature, or eat wonderful food.
Join us as we explore the best of what Calca has to offer, so next time you take a trip to the village circuit, you’ll know what to do here. So, let’s dive in!
A Better Look into Calca’s Past and Present
Firstly, Calca is a beautiful town perched at an altitude of 2,900 meters above sea level, surrounded by stunning mountains.
Two of these are the impressive Pitusiray and Sawasiray Glaciers, which rise to 4,987 meters. People still value these Apus for helping food plants grow.
Before the Incas and the Spanish’s arrival, the Calca region was inhabited by human groups such as the Kallkas, whose name was later used for the city.
Later, around the 15th century, the conquest of these groups began. The ruler Wiracocha decided to live in the area, founding the Inca citadel of Huchuy Qosqo.
During the Spanish conquest, chroniclers recorded the first written accounts of Calca. The chronicles of the conquest reveal many details, stating that Inca Wiracocha founded the archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo on a conquered settlement.
Before being called Calca, it was known as Villa de Zamora. Calca appears in many conquest-era writings under that name, possibly named after the Spanish city of Zamora.
Additionally, records show that conquistador Pedro De Zamora founded the town. The Calca Province was officially created on June 21, 1825, by decree of the Liberator Simón Bolívar.
Top Things to Do in Calca
Visit the Huchuy Qosqo Ruins
One of the most fascinating Inca sites near Calca is Huchuy Qosqo, which means “Little Cusco” in Quechua. This archaeological site sits high over the Sacred Valley.
The site provides breathtaking views of the rivers and mountains below. It also has stone structures, terraces, and ceremonial buildings.
Scholars believe that Huchuy Qosqo was a royal estate used for agriculture and religious ceremonies. To reach the ruins, you can hike from Calca, which takes around 4 to 5 hours, or take a shorter route from Lamay (a nearby town). The hike is scenic and rewarding, making it a great adventure for history lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Relax at the Machacancha hot springs
After an exciting day of exploring, nothing beats relaxing in warm, natural thermal baths. The Machacancha Hot Springs sit just 7 km from Calca, famous for their mineral-rich waters. These waters help relax muscles and improve circulation.
The pools vary in temperature, with some reaching up to 40°C, making them the perfect place to unwind and enjoy nature.
These springs are less crowded than those in Lares, providing a peaceful experience. The entrance is just 5 soles (1.50 $)
Explore Calca’s Local Markets
Calca houses two traditional markets, where a vast variety of food products are sold, reflecting both the enough of the Andes and Calca’s connection to the jungle region. Also, every Sunday, people from nearby communities come to sell their products.
This significantly increases the diversity of native products available, complemented by the presence of locals dressed in their traditional attire, adding a vibrant and colorful atmosphere to the fair.
Try exotic fruits or fruit juices like chirimoya, lucuma, and more. Buy handmade textiles and woven crafts made by local artisans.
Discover the Ancasmarka Ruins
Ancasmarka, or the “Eagle City” in Quechua language, is another must-see archaeological site near Calca. This pre-Inca settlement features stone storage houses and terraces that once served as storage centers for the Incas.
Visitors like you can explore its well-preserved and curiously rounded structures today. You can find Ancasmarka 23 kilometers away from Calca city, where you can also get breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley.
Take the scenic Lares Trek
For adventure lovers, the Lares Trek is one of the most beautiful and rewarding hikes in Peru. This trek, which starts near Calca, takes you through:
-Remote Andean villages, where you can meet Quechua-speaking communities.
-Majestic mountain landscapes, with peaks covered in snow.
-Crystal-clear lagoons and stunning waterfalls.
Unlike the Inca Trail, the Lares Trek is less crowded, making it an excellent alternative for those who want a more peaceful experience in nature.
Enjoy Calca’s Local Festivals
Good Friday & Easter
Holy Week in Calca is a beautiful time that celebrates Catholic traditions. Local groups come together to decorate the streets between the town’s two plazas. Before Good Friday, many people visit cemeteries to honor their loved ones, just like the All Saints Day.
Mamacha Asunta (August)
This festival is the year’s highlight. It features lively masked dancers, musicians, and a vibrant mix of Catholic and Andean traditions. While it honors the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, it also pays tribute to Pachamama (Mother Earth). You can see this connection in the agricultural-themed dances that celebrate growth and fertility.
Unu Urco Festival (October)
Held at the Inca sanctuary of Urco, this outdoor festival reenacts the legend of Uno Urco, a myth tied to water and love. The performance tells the tale of two lovers, Sawasiray and Pitusiray’s love story. This festival is a contemporary representation of the Andean tragic love story, which you can read in the article we wrote for you in our “Peruvian Legends” section.
Calca’s Anniversary (June 21)
Falls on the winter solstice. The event starts with a serenade, then there’s a full day of parades. Local institutions and highland communities wear traditional Andean attire. The festival showcases folk dances, music, and traditional food such as chiri uchú and chicha. Residents come together to celebrate in a lively cultural expression.
How to Get Calca
The trip to Calca lasts around 50 minutes from Cusco. To get to Calca, you must ride the bus on Puputi Street, near La Cultura Avenue. Then you can take a bus or ride a van called “Colectivo.” You’ll cross Sacsahuaman, Qenqo, and Pisac to reach Calca.
You must visit this town
We can categorically affirm that Calca is a hidden treasure in Cusco’s Sacred Valley, offering stunning landscapes, fascinating history, and unforgettable experiences. So, whether you’re hiking to ancient ruins or relaxing in hot springs, Calca has something special for you!
If you’re visiting Cusco, don’t miss the chance to explore Calca—you’ll fall in love with its charm, culture, and breathtaking beauty! To discover more magical places like this, stay tuned to our blog!
Finally, Viagens Machu Picchu would be more than glad if we could assist you in creating your adventure to Calca and other Peru’s magical cities!
Feel free to contact us, and our consultants will give you more details about our packages and best deals! The adventure of your lifetime in the Peruvian Andes is waiting for you!
Viagens Machu Picchu, journeys that inspire, moments that last.