Excursion to Tanka Tanka and Zepita – Cusco Region, Peru

EXPERIENCE

At 8:00 a.m. we will pick you up from your hotel in Puno to head southwest and travel 170 kilometers by bus.

We will reach almost the border of Peru with Bolivia and we will stop at the Tanka Tanka archaeological complex. Here we will learn about the history of the Lupaka culture, which was established in the southern highlands of Puno around 1100 AD. The lupakas were one of the peoples that emerged after the split of the Tiwanacota empire, like the qollas, pacajes or omasuyos.

As we approach Tanka Tanka, we will observe that the site evokes a curious shape. Can you guess which one? We will only tell you that the name Tanka Tanka derives from a Quechua word that gives its name to an insect. In addition, we will find enormous blocks of carved stone, which constitute a fortress made up of walls and chulpas.

We will admire the chulpas and search among the vestiges for other constructions, such as a temple dedicated to the Tanka idol or ancient hydraulic engineering systems. We will also have the opportunity to see the presence of rock art in some of them.

After visiting the site, we will make a stop to regain strength with a regional lunch that will consist of vegetable soup, a first course of meat, fish or legumes and a herbal tea.

Next, we will go to the Zepita district, where we will visit such emblematic places as the colonial temple of San Pedro and San Pablo, a beautiful church whose façade decorated with high reliefs will amaze you.

Finally, we will return to Puno and we will drop you off at your hotels between 3:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.

HIGHLIGHTS

border of Peru with Bolivia
history of lupaka culture
fortress formed by walls and chulpas

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