Best attractions and places to see in Poroy, a district in the Andean highlands of Peru, serves as a gateway to destinations like Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. It offers a peaceful environment with traditional architecture and scenic beauty, providing a tranquil start to adventures. The area maintains its Cusco culture and tradition, featuring houses made of adobe that reflect ancient Andean civilizations. Visitors can experience authentic rural Peruvian life and enjoy clear views of the countryside, hills, and fields.
Last updated: July 17, 2026
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Even if you are no longer allowed to photograph inside the cathedral today (or precisely because of that), visiting it is a must for anyone visiting Cusco. Countless altars in various architectural styles and materials, the different patron saints, the silver monstrance, and of course the entire architecture are admirable. The supporting walls of the nave are built from stones of a nearby Inca temple. After an earthquake, the cathedral's roof was destroyed and rebuilt in the Gothic style.
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Cost 70 soles to enter, only accepts cash payments. Only pay at the top of the hill not the sellers on the way.
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At the heart of Cusco is Coricancha, the most important temple of the Inca Empire. Coricancha, also spelled Korikancha or Qorikancha, means "Golden Temple" in Quechua. This impressive Inca Temple of the Sun remains a key feature of the city for locals and tourists alike.
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The fortress of “Sacsayhuamán” (in Quechua this means contented falcon) is one of the most important archaeological complexes of the Inca Empire and is located above the city, at the gates of Cusco. When you visit the complex, you will be amazed: one stone was placed on top of the other with the utmost precision and an impressive technique.
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The Cusco Cathedral is one of the most emblematic buildings of the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. Besides, it is one of the main attractions to appreciate on a walking tour in Cusco. This historical construction is also considered a Cultural Heritage of the Nation and has a combination of unique characteristics. The Cusco Cathedral is important by its Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance styles that blend harmoniously, unique in South America. Also, by its largest deposits of colonial art representative of Cusquenian school style. The entire Cathedral houses an innumerable amount of artworks from the Cusco art school. Valuable examples of art that are worth knowing and admiring. Source: https://www.machutravelperu.com/blog/cathedral-cusco
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Hatun Rumiyoq is a stone wall (green diorite) located on the street of the same name. It must have been part of the palace attributed to Inca Roca. It covers most of the Hatun-Rumiyoc street; a world-famous street because it houses the “stone of the twelve angles”, known for the perfect union of its 12 corners and sides with the stones that surround it. This wall has intersections of colonial and republican structures and currently houses the Archbishop's Palace and the Museum of Religious Art of Cusco. At this point the architects had to build a kind of platform to level the ground, since this is where the steep slope begins that leads to the traditional neighborhood of San Blas. Source: https://www.ticketmachupicchu.com/hatun-rumiyoc/
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The Stone of Twelve Angles is made of a diorite formation and gained popularity due to its magnificent workmanship and border of twelve angles, which indicates a perfectionist Inca architecture, since there are no asymmetries in its joints. Source: https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Piedra_de_los_doce_%C3%A1ngulos
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The construction of the cathedral was no small feat; it spanned nearly a century, from 1560 to 1654. This extensive period of construction, renovation and expansion explains the cathedral's eclectic architectural style. It is a living museum of architectural trends, from the Renaissance and Gothic of the Spanish to the incorporation of indigenous influences. During my first visits, photography was still allowed in the church, but now it is unfortunately prohibited.
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While Poroy itself offers a tranquil, traditional Andean experience, its proximity to Cusco means you can easily visit significant historical and cultural sites. These include the iconic Plaza de Armas of Cusco, which was considered the center of the earth in Inca times. You can also explore the magnificent Cusco Cathedral, known for its eclectic architectural style and rich art history, and the ancient Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), a primary temple of the Inca Empire.
Yes, several attractions near Poroy are suitable for families. The Plaza de Armas of Cusco is a great place for families to soak in history and culture, surrounded by colonial buildings. The Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun) also offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient Inca practices that can engage all ages. Additionally, exploring Hatun Rumiyoc Street and the Twelve-Angled Stone provides an interesting architectural marvel that children might enjoy discovering.
The region around Poroy offers various outdoor activities, particularly hiking. You can find several routes that explore the historical sites and natural landscapes. For example, there's a moderate 6.48 km loop from Cusco covering the Cusco Cathedral to the Sacsayhuamán Archaeological Site. Another easy option is the 4.03 km loop from San Cristóbal, visiting the Twelve-Angled Stone. For more hiking options, check out the Hiking in Poroy guide.
Poroy stands out as a tranquil gateway to the bustling destinations of Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. It offers a peaceful environment with traditional adobe houses reflecting ancient Andean civilizations, allowing visitors to experience authentic rural Peruvian life. The district maintains its Cusco culture and tradition, providing clear views of the countryside, hills, and fields, making it a serene starting point for adventures rather than a crowded city.
Yes, for those seeking a quieter experience, Poroy itself offers a serene atmosphere away from the main tourist hubs. You can explore the local artisanal handicrafts market for a glimpse into local culture. For nature lovers, Cerro Huarahuaylla provides an opportunity to commune with nature and enjoy the great outdoors within Poroy, offering scenic views and gentle trails for hiking or cycling amidst natural landscapes.
Poroy is known for its traditional architecture, which reflects ancient Andean civilizations and maintains its Cusco culture. You'll find houses made of adobe, a traditional building material, contributing to the district's authentic rural Peruvian charm. This architectural style, combined with the scenic views, offers a unique visual experience.
To experience the local culture in Poroy, visit the artisanal handicrafts market, where you can find unique souvenirs and observe local craftsmanship. The district's traditional adobe architecture and the peaceful, rural environment also offer a genuine insight into Andean life. Engaging with the local community and observing daily life provides a direct connection to the region's rich traditions.
Visitors frequently appreciate the historical depth and architectural marvels of the sites near Poroy. For instance, the Plaza de Armas of Cusco is loved for being a central point of history and culture. The Cusco Cathedral is praised for its art history and its narrative of the Conquestadores and Inca resistance. The precision of Inca engineering, as seen in sites like Sacsayhuamán Archaeological Site and the Twelve-Angled Stone, also consistently fascinates visitors.
Yes, the area around Poroy and Cusco offers several running trails. You can find challenging routes like the 13.96 km 'Saqsaywaman – Cristo Blanco loop' or the 7.97 km 'Saqsaywaman loop'. These routes often incorporate scenic views and historical sites. For a comprehensive list of options, refer to the Running Trails in Poroy guide.
Poroy's strategic location makes it an ideal, tranquil base for accessing numerous world-renowned sites. It is a primary departure point for scenic train journeys to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). Additionally, it's just a short drive from Cusco, which offers a vibrant mix of history and culture. From Poroy, you can also easily arrange tours to the Sacred Valley, Rainbow Mountain, Humantay Lake, and other archaeological sites like Sacsayhuamán and Moray.
Poroy offers clear and expansive views of the Andean countryside. You can expect to see rolling hills, lush fields, and traditional rural landscapes. This serene environment provides a calmer and more relaxed start to your Peruvian adventure, contrasting with the more urban views of Cusco.


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