Mystic Cusco: Huasao, Valley of the Goblins and Morada

A day exploring the mysterious and cultural side of Cusco begins with this intriguing tour that takes you beyond the city limits. For $45 per person, you’ll spend about 8 hours uncovering massive limestone sculptures, hidden goblin caves, and wooden carvings inspired by Lord of the Rings. Led by knowledgeable guides, it’s a well-rounded experience that combines native Andean traditions with imaginative fantasy sculptures.

We love how this tour offers a blend of nature and culture—from the wetlands filled with birdlife to the mystical carvings rooted in indigenous beliefs. Plus, the sculptures in Sencca and the Valley of the Goblins make for striking photo opportunities. The Huasao Wetland with its whimsical wooden figures is a delightful surprise that adds a playful touch.

A possible consideration is the timing and punctuality—some travelers have noted delays in pickup, which could affect the overall experience. It’s also worth mentioning that the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility challenges, given the walking involved in rocky and natural environments. This experience suits adventurous travelers who appreciate art, nature, and folklore and are comfortable with some early starts and walking.

Key Points

• Cultural and mythical sculptures: See impressive carvings inspired by Andean beliefs and fantasy worlds.
• Wildlife and wetlands: The Huasao Wetland teems with bird species, providing opportunities for nature photography.
• Unique experience: Combining natural landscapes with artistic interpretations makes this tour stand out.
• Group size and guides: Expect a guided tour with a professional guide, available in Spanish and English.
• Price and value: At $45, it’s an affordable way to explore lesser-known sites outside Cusco.
• Important booking info: Must book at least 24 hours in advance; no last-minute reservations accepted.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Mystical Day

This tour begins with the convenience of hotel pickup near or within Cusco’s historic center at around 9:50 am. From there, your guide will whisk you away to the first stop — the Abode of the Gods in Sencca. Here, you’ll marvel at huge limestone sculptures representing animals like pumas, ancient gods such as Wiracocha, and symbols of Pachamama, reflecting the deep spiritual connection of the indigenous cultures. These sculptures, carved from limestone, are not only impressive due to their size but also because they convey stories and beliefs that date back centuries.

We enjoyed the way these sculptures are integrated into the landscape, giving a sense that they belong to the mountains and earth itself. It’s an excellent spot for photos and for understanding how Andean peoples have historically used art to communicate with nature and the divine.

Next, the journey takes us to the Valley of the Goblins in San Sebastian. The name alone sparks curiosity, and it does not disappoint. This area features rock formations with intricate carvings and hidden goblin figures that seem to emerge from the natural terrain. Along the way, you’ll see stone chinkanas—caves and tunnels where goblins and mythical creatures are said to dwell. The guides point out carvings that relate to local Andean stories, adding layers of meaning to the rugged landscape.

While exploring these mysterious caves and carvings, we appreciated the balance between natural rock formations and artistic carvings. It’s a place where myth and geology intertwine, giving visitors a tangible sense of local legends. Some travelers, however, have mentioned that the area can be challenging to navigate; sturdy shoes and a sense of adventure are recommended.

The tour then proceeds to the Huasao District, where the highlight is the Wetland, a beautiful natural habitat filled with birdlife, including ducks and other waterfowl. Here, we loved the wooden sculptures inspired by popular characters such as Groot and Ents from Lord of the Rings. These figures, carved from wood, add a fun and whimsical element to the landscape, creating a playful contrast with the serious stone sculptures seen earlier.

The Wetland also offers an excellent opportunity for birdwatching, and the presence of diverse bird species makes it a pleasant break from the rocky sites. It’s a peaceful area, and the wooden sculptures give the place a storybook feel that often surprises visitors.

Finally, the tour moves to the Forest of the Ents, a space that resembles a living art installation. Here, sculptures made of roots and logs are inspired by characters from the Lord of the Rings, like Barbol and Balin, as well as Hobbit houses. This natural sculpture garden offers a different perspective on art in harmony with nature, using fallen branches and logs to create striking figures.

At each stage, the guide provides insights into the symbolism and cultural significance of the sculptures and sites, enriching the experience. The return to Cusco is scheduled for approximately 6:30 pm, making for a long but rewarding day.

Authentic Experiences and Practicalities

What makes this tour appealing is its focus on authentic sites rather than tourist hotspots. Visiting the Abode of the Gods and the Valley of the Goblins offers genuine encounters with local mythology and ancient carvings that aren’t crowded with travelers. The wetland adds a natural element, giving a broader perspective on the biodiversity and landscape of the region.

Despite the low price of $45, the tour includes round-trip transportation, a professional guide, and entry tickets, which adds significant value. This means you won’t have to worry about extra costs or navigating public transport to reach these sites.

However, some travelers have expressed frustration over delays in pickup—one review mentioned being picked up almost 2 hours late, which shortened the actual sightseeing time. Planning for this possibility and ensuring your expectations are flexible can help prevent disappointment.

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or visually impaired visitors because of uneven terrain and natural obstacles. Also, travelers should remember to bring a passport, sun hat, comfortable clothes, and cash for any additional expenses or tips.

Why This Tour Could Be Perfect for You

This experience is ideal for adventurers who love art and mythology, especially those curious about indigenous culture and local legends. It’s also suitable for nature lovers who enjoy birdwatching and peaceful wetlands. If you’re interested in fantasy sculptures and enjoy a mix of natural and artistic environments, you’ll find this day both engaging and inspiring.

Given its focus on lesser-known sites and authentic cultural elements, it’s a great way to get away from the typical tourist trail, especially if you’re willing to start early and walk in natural surroundings. Just be prepared for some rugged terrain and variable punctuality—these are small things that can be managed with a flexible attitude.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $45 per person, which includes transportation, a guide, and tickets to the sites. It’s a budget-friendly option given the number of sites visited.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, starting around 9:50 am and returning by approximately 6:30 pm.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, you must book at least 24 hours ahead. Last-minute bookings aren’t accepted, so plan accordingly.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, round-trip transportation from your Cusco hotel is included in the price.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport, sun hat, comfortable clothes, and cash for any extra expenses or tips.

Can I expect to see animals or birdlife?
Yes, the Huasao Wetland is home to several bird species, including wild ducks, making it a good spot for nature watching.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with difficulty walking, due to natural terrain and rocky paths.

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Final Thoughts

This tour offers a captivating mix of art, mythology, and nature that can appeal to travelers interested in exploring outside the typical tourist routes around Cusco. The sculptures inspired by Andean culture and fantasy characters provide a unique perspective on local folklore and creative expression. The inclusion of the wetlands and goblin caves adds natural beauty and adventure, making it a well-rounded day.

While the price is modest, travelers should be prepared for possible delays and rugged terrain, especially if mobility is a concern. It’s best suited for adventure-minded visitors who enjoy storytelling through art and nature and who don’t mind spending a full day outdoors.

If you’re looking for an offbeat experience that combines native history with playful fantasy sculptures, this tour is a good choice. It also offers a chance to see less-visited sites that deepens your understanding of the region’s cultural fabric — all at a very reasonable price for what you get.

In the end, this experience is about discovery. Whether you’re a lover of mythology, nature, or just looking for something truly different, it’s a chance to see Cusco from a new perspective—through carvings, sculptures, and wetlands that tell stories as old as the mountains themselves.

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