THE ENCHANTED JOURNEY (NATURE , ARCHEOLOGY, OFF BEATEN ROUTES, WILDLIFE CULTURE)
Espiritu Pampa The Inca's last stronghold
- Information
- Tour Plan
- Route
- Gallery
- Reviews
- Download Info
- Similar Tours
What's included
- Activities Listed in the Program
- English Speaking Guide
- Free Storage Room in Cusco
- Hostel at Vilcabamba
- Meals (according the itinerary)
- Purified Water to Refill
- Rubber Boots
- Transfer in City, Airport, Bus Station
- Transport (Air Conditioned Minivan or SUV)
- Alcoholic Drinks
- Binoculars (Available to rent)
- First Day Breakfast
- Single Supplement Upgrade
Espiritu Pampa and Vitcos Ruins
3 Days All Included Tour Package from Cusco
Delve into one of Peru’s most enigmatic and historically rich regions with our 3-day Espíritu Pampa program, departing from Cusco. This expedition offers privileged access to the legendary Vilcabamba region, home to the last strongholds of the Inca resistance—and a trove of ruins that remain some of the most culturally significant yet least visited in the Andes.
Carefully designed to accommodate travelers of all backgrounds, the entire route is now comfortably covered by ground transportation, thanks to vastly improved connectivity. What once required multi-day trekking through dense jungle is now accessible through scenic overland routes, allowing for deeper exploration without logistical hurdles.
This program includes immersive visits to the Vitcos archaeological complex and the evocative ruins of Espíritu Pampa—a site once shrouded in myth as the “Lost City of the Incas.” Here, you’ll witness monumental architecture hidden beneath forest canopy, ceremonial baths, and remnants of a royal complex that provide invaluable insights into Inca history far beyond what is found at more famous sites.
Ideal for archaeology enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and curious travelers, this journey blends remote landscapes with powerful storytelling, connecting you to a chapter of history few have experienced firsthand . Join us on this extraordinary 3-day journey of discovery as we venture into the lesser-explored Incan ruins of Peru
Espiritu Pampa Discovered
When Hiram Bingham discovered Machu Picchu in 1911. Many believed this magnificent and mysterious ruin to be Vilcabamba where the last remnant of the Incan Empire found refuge from the Spaniards. One must conclude that this is the last Inca Refuge. ‘Espiritu pampa or Vilcabamba the Old ‘ refers not only to the legendary city (and to the town of ‘Vilcabamba the New, ‘ founded by Spaniards in the late 16th century) but to an entire region of Peru northwest of Cuzco and beyond Machu Picchu.
Features
- The research and findings in Espiritu Pampa have led to a turning point in the study of Peruvian history. The important discovery of the tomb of the Lord of Vilcabamba or Wari in February 2011, as well as the archaeological constructions of apparent hierarchy, revealed the occupation of a pre-Inca culture (Wari) that had overlapped harmoniously.
- Espiritu Pampa is an archaeological complex of great cultural value where the Lord of Vilcabamba-Wari was found, changing the chronology of the development of this culture.
- The Wari arrived at the lowlands of Antisuyu, an area that was also occupied by the Incas, superimposing their knowledge and wisdom in this impenetrable shell of a region that served as the last refuge during the Inca resistance against the Spanish Invasion (1536-1576).

Other ruins in Espiritu Pampa Region
Vitcos Ruins
This Archeological site stands on the northern side of the hill, between the modern villages of Huancacalle and Pucyura, and is the principal portion of a complex that covers the entire hill and portions of the valleys to the south and east.
South of the hill, there is Chuqip’allta, a giant carved stone said to have been an Inca oracle, and a series of terraces. Stretch along the eastern side of the hill within the valley, which is believed to have been decorative or ceremonial gardens.
The palace itself consists of two groups of buildings, one is the upper group is made up of eight large rooms, arranged in four pairs of two rooms back to back. All are joined by a common outer wall and the common wall has doors that lead to passages between the pairs.
To the north of the upper group is a terrace wall, below which is the lower group of buildings. This group is made up of a dozen or more buildings arranged around an open courtyard. The exact number of buildings in this group is unclear, as it is in considerably worse condition than the upper group. Espiritu Pampa and Vitcos Ruins


Huancacalle- Rosaspata
Located in a broadened expanse of the valley near where several canyons come together. All were Inca travel routes hosting assorted Inca and pre-Inca ruins. Dominating the landscape is the hill above the town called Rosaspata. The Inca constructed a major complex of high-status buildings with an all-around view on top called Vitcos. The Neo-Inca later adopted it as their principal city. Espiritu Pampa and Vitcos Ruins


Yuraq Rumi – Hispanic Ñusta
This enormous carved rock is considered an important religious center for the Inka era and during the resistance, where rituals to the sun god and also to the Taki Onqoy were practiced. In the main space, there is an exquisitely carved rock with high relief designs typical of the Inka era, as well as enclosures distributed around patios, terraces, and paccha carved from local rock.
It is located to the east of the town of Huancacalle and the Archaeological Site of Vitkos (Rosaspata), over 2997 meters above sea level; It is accessed by a pedestrian path in a time of approximately 25 minutes.


This Tour its made for !
If you’re seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, away from the tourist traps and crowds, then this is the perfect tour for you.
Imagine stepping into a world of mystery and intrigue, where ancient civilizations once flourished. As you explore these hidden gems, you’ll be captivated by the intricate stonework, advanced engineering, and spiritual significance that these ruins hold.
But this tour isn’t just about visiting extraordinary archaeological sites. It’s about embarking on a journey of authentic cultural immersion. You’ll have the opportunity to interact with local communities. These encounters offer a deeper understanding of the enduring legacy of the Incan civilization and how it continues to shape the lives of the local people.
Our commitment to your comfort and safety is paramount, and we have carefully selected accommodations that provide both relaxation and immersion in the local ambiance. After a day of exploration, you can unwind in comfortable and authentic lodgings, rejuvenating yourself for the next day’s adventure.
By embarking on this tour, you’ll not only escape the crowds and tourist traps but also unlock a world of hidden treasures, unveiling Incan ruins few have the privilege to witness. This exclusive experience allows you to connect with the history, culture, and natural beauty of Peru in an intimate and meaningful way.
What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to create lasting memories and truly immerse yourself in the lesser-known wonders of the Incan civilization. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, history enthusiast, or cultural explorer, this tour will surely exceed your expectations.
- Day 1
- Day 2
- Day 3
Cusco - Santa Maria - Lucma
Pickup from the hotel in the morning time to drive along the Sacred Valley where we stop for a break and explore the village of Ollantaytambo briefly.
We begin our long drive about 2 hours uphills to the Abra Malaga glacier, with stops to see obscure Incan ruins along the way. Once you cross over the 15,000 ft. pass, you descend into the semi-tropical jungle for another 4 hours towards the Vilcabamba valley, upon arrival we will pass by many agricultural fields and follow the river along the Valley to reach Lucma, Pucyura towns. After arrival, we will trek to the ruins of Vitcos and ñusta hispàna, this trek would take at least two hours returning to our hotel before dusk
Lucma Village - Espiritu Pampa
On this morning we will follow the main and new roads from Lucma to Chontabamba, traveling along the remoteness of the rugged Vilcabamba range of Peru’s southern, this road was recently constructed.
We’ll spend the morning riding out down the narrow dirt road through farmland and villages for hours as we gradually lose altitude and the passing scenery changes from high Andean sceneries to warmer environments with lush vegetation and coffee plantations. This is a spectacular, fun journey through the remoteness of Peru. We will get the Espiritu Pampa by mid-day and have time to explore this marvelous place, as we walk further into the forest we will see several more constructions from what was once a complete city now lost in the jungle by the surroundings.
there is also a great possibility to observe the bright colored Andean cock of the Rock, Oropendolas, and some tamarin monkeys have seen along the road.
During the afternoon, the bird activity is interesting, diverse calls emerged from the dense and lush vegetation that also surrounds the ruins so almost everything is covered by epiphytes plants such as; bromeliads, orchids, lichens, and the large trees that are standing up over the ruins are quite impressive.
Camping or hostel at Chontabamba
Espiritu Pampa Ruins - Cusco
After breakfast at Chontabamba village,
After this last visit we will make our drive back to Cusco, driving again along the high mountains and having lunch along the way, we will back at Cusco during the night time.






User Reviews & Comments
David Hein
I just wanted to send you a short message to say how much Steve and I enjoyed our trip to Espiritu Pampa. Juan and Carlos were fantastic guides, and everything was very well organized. It was great too connecting with various members of the Cobos family in both Espiritu Pampa and Huancacalle. I would strongly recommend this trip to anyone.
10 July, 2025
Nick J
This was a trip of a lifetime to Inca ruins I’ve dreamed of visiting. It is by far the quickest and easiest way to visit as it doesn’t require hiking or relying on rare colectivos. Herbert and Charlie are keen bird watchers and great company. If you have read about the Inca then you will know about Espiritu Pampa, Vitcos and the White Rock and should do this tour. I won’t forget it, I only wish I had more time in the Vilcabamba. Thank you!
10 January, 2024
Rosemary Johnston and family
I recently had the incredible opportunity to embark on the 3-day tour of the lesser-explored Incan ruins in Peru, and I must say, it exceeded all my expectations. From the moment we ventured off the beaten path, I felt a sense of awe and wonder as we discovered hidden gems that few have had the privilege to witness. Our knowledgeable guide provided captivating insights into the history and culture of the Incas, making every exploration truly immersive and educational.
15 July, 2023