Awana Cancha Tour: History, Landscapes and Incan Culture

Imagine stepping into a landscape that feels like a snapshot from the past—stone terraces, ancient walls, and panoramic views over the Cusco region. For just $62 per person, this private Awana Cancha tour offers a quick yet meaningful glimpse into the architectural ingenuity and agricultural mastery of the Incas. With a duration of about an hour of exploration, plus a comfortable round trip from Cusco, it’s perfect for travelers who want to see a lesser-known site without the crowds.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines ease and exclusivity—your own private vehicle and driver make the journey smooth, and the site itself delivers a quiet, contemplative atmosphere away from busier attractions. Two standout highlights are the well-preserved terraced structures that showcase Incan farming techniques and the stunning, unobstructed views of the surrounding valleys. On the downside, keep in mind that the tour focuses only on Awana Cancha itself, so it’s best as a quick addition rather than a day-long adventure.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate history, enjoy scenic landscapes, and prefer a hassle-free experience. It’s especially appealing if you’re short on time but want an authentic peek into the Inca world—perfect for those who value comfort and direct access without unnecessary stops or complicated planning.

Key Points

• Convenient Private Transport: Your own vehicle ensures a comfortable, worry-free trip from Cusco.
• Focused Visit: An hour at Awana Cancha lets you explore without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
• Historical Insight: The site’s terracing and agricultural structures reveal Incan ingenuity.
• Panoramic Views: Expect stunning vistas of the surrounding valleys, perfect for photos.
• Flexible Schedule: Check availability for your preferred starting time; the tour is adaptable.
• Ideal for Short Visits: Perfect for those with limited time but wanting a meaningful cultural experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Awana Cancha Tour

The Journey Starts with Comfort and Convenience

Once you’ve booked your tour, the process is straightforward. Your driver will pick you up directly from your hotel in Cusco, eliminating the need for navigating unfamiliar public transport or worrying about directions. The vehicle supplied is described as suitable and safe, making the trip smooth and relaxing. Travel times are kept direct, without unnecessary stops, so you arrive refreshed and ready to explore.

This private service offers a significant advantage—your group gets undivided attention, making the experience more personalized. We appreciated how the driver, who speaks Spanish, offers a safe and efficient ride, allowing us to sit back and enjoy the scenic drive.

The Site of Awana Cancha: An Inca Treasure

Arriving at Awana Cancha, you’re greeted by an area that might not be on every tourist’s radar but packs a punch in terms of history and landscape. The site is known for its well-preserved terraces and agricultural structures, which highlight the Incas’ impressive engineering skills. These terraces weren’t just for farming—they also helped prevent erosion and manage water flow, showcasing sustainable land use practices that are still admired today.

During your hour of exploration, you’ll have the chance to wander among the ruins, snap photos of the panoramic views, and get a sense of how the Incas harnessed the landscape. Many past visitors have noted the serene atmosphere, which feels like stepping into a quiet, timeless world. One review mentions, “We loved the way the terraces were so intact, giving us a real sense of Incan ingenuity.”

What Makes This Site Special?

Unlike some more popular tourist sites—like Machu Picchu or Sacsayhuamán—Awana Cancha offers a peaceful, less crowded environment. It’s ideal for travelers who want a meaningful cultural experience without the hustle of larger attractions. The site’s preservation means you can see the structures as they were centuries ago, providing a tangible connection to the past.

The surrounding landscape is equally impressive. Expect sweeping views of the valleys, with lush greenery and distant mountains framing the site. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to pause, breathe deeply, and reflect on the ingenuity of the Incas.

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Returning to Cusco: Ease and Comfort

After your hour of exploring, your driver will take you back directly to your hotel. The round-trip service means no stress about transportation logistics or additional costs. It’s a straightforward, hassle-free way to add a splash of history and nature to your Cusco itinerary.

Pricing and Value

At $62 per person, this tour offers good value—especially considering the personalized private service and the chance to visit an off-the-beaten-path site. Entrance fees are not included, so you’ll want to budget for those separately, but overall, you’re paying for comfort, convenience, and quality.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re a traveler short on time but eager to see authentic, lesser-known Inca sites, this tour hits the mark. It’s also perfect for those who value private transportation and want to avoid crowded tour groups. Given the one-hour exploration window, it’s best as a quick, enriching stop rather than a full-day adventure.

Final Thoughts: Is It Right for You?

This Awana Cancha tour provides a rare opportunity to get close to Incan agricultural ingenuity without the crowds or complications of larger sites. It’s ideal for curious travelers who want a relaxed, authentic experience with a focus on history and landscape. If you enjoy peaceful settings, panoramic views, and learning about Incan land management, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

However, if you’re looking for a comprehensive, long-day exploration of Inca sites or cultural landmarks, you may want to combine this with other activities. Still, for a quick, well-organized snapshot of Inca ingenuity, it’s an excellent choice.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, your private vehicle and driver are included, making the trip comfortable and direct from Cusco.

Can I choose my starting time?
Availability varies, so you should check with the provider to see your preferred start time.

Are entrance fees to Awana Cancha included?
No, entrance fees are not included; you will need to purchase these separately.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s a private group experience, but note that babies under 1 year are not recommended.

How long is the visit at the site?
You will have approximately one hour to explore Awana Cancha.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
Since the site involves walking among terraces and ruins, it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, and consider sun protection like hat and sunscreen, as there is limited shade.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour available in languages other than Spanish?
The driver speaks Spanish; other languages are not specified, so travelers should be comfortable with basic Spanish or arrange for translation if needed.

What makes this tour different from other Inca site visits?
Its focus on a lesser-known site, combined with private transport and an intimate atmosphere, makes it a quiet, authentic alternative to larger, busier locations.

In all, the Awana Cancha tour offers a straightforward, enriching taste of Inca ingenuity and landscape, perfect for travelers craving a peaceful, authentic experience without the fuss. It’s a smart choice for those seeking to connect with Peru’s past in a relaxed setting, making the trip to Awana Cancha a memorable highlight of your Cusco visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby