Lesser known sites in Cusco

Good morning world, thought it might be nice to blog about some lesser known sites in Cusco as I wait for the arrival of our coconut oil from the jungle.

One of my personal favourites (apart from Machu Picchu) is the delightful water temple of Tipon. Situated approximately 23 kms from Cusco at a height of 3500ms .

At present to arrive at the site you must take a 5km drive up a very bumpy road.  This is being rectified and will be a proper road in June 2012 which should assist tourism to the area.

Upon arrival you can begin to enter the park by the stairs passing small waterfalls until you enter the site which is a remarkable engineering feat with a myriad of water fountains and 12 terraces.  It is thought that the water that runs through the entire park comes from an underground lake.  A true delight to visit.

There is also the possibility of walking up an original Inca trail which is located on the north side of the site. This is a little harder but well worth it.

Another interesting thing about Tipon is the village which is on the main highway. Known as the place to eat guinea pig (locally known as CUY) the village is full of small family run restaurants that dedicate their time to preparing the Peruvian delicacy. It’s a very popular place for local people at the weekend and probably the best place to try authentic guinea pig.

For the opportunity to visit Tipon and some other sites in the Southern Valley have a look at http://www.tikatrek.com/en/program/96/southern-valley-1-day-tour  

And remember to get some soap www.tikasoapperu.com