Things to do in Santa Teresa

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Top 10 attractions in Santa Teresa

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2026 Global 100 - Best Things to Do

Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu

9.8

4.6/5

179 reviews

The Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu means "old mountain" in Quechua and is often called the "lost city of the Incas." This mountain citadel, built by the Inca Empire in the 15th century, sits on a steep ridge in the Andes at an elevation of approx. 2,400 m, overlooking the rushing Urubamba River valley. Hidden among mountains and clouds, it eluded Spanish colonizers and was abandoned with the empire's fall until its rediscovery in 1911 by American explorer Hiram Bingham, led by a local guide. The city is constructed with precisely fitted dry-stone walls that have withstood centuries of weather and earthquakes. Visitors can explore two main areas: the agricultural terraces and the urban sector. The Temple of the Sun's windows align with the summer solstice sunrise, reflecting Inca sun worship; the Temple of the Three Windows, with its massive stonework, and the central plaza formed the religious core. The Intihuatana, a finely carved monolithic stone, is believed to have served astronomical purposes, giving rise to its name meaning "hitching post of the sun." The viewpoint near the Guardian's Hut frames the ruins with the towering Huayna Picchu peak—a classic photo spot—while alpacas often wander into shots on the terraced lawns. Morning mists clearing at sunrise, with sunlight bathing the stone walls, create a magical scene, so early arrival is recommended. Due to the high altitude and strong UV rays, sun protection and warm layers are essential. For the adventurous, hiking the Inca Trail for days and glimpsing the citadel from the Sun Gate remains an unforgettable arrival for many trekkers.

Urubamba · 11.3 km from Santa Teresa

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The Temple of the Sun

4.9

In Urubamba, Cusco Region, Peru, the The Temple of the Sun is an Inca site of great historical and cultural significance. It was one of the important places where the ancient Inca civilization worshipped the sun god Inti, reflecting a high degree of integration between celestial worship and architectural skill. The temple itself is constructed from massive stone blocks. Archaeologists speculate that these stones were transported from a quarry on the opposite bank, demonstrating the Incas' astonishing ability to transport stone and build without the use of wheels. Its architectural style is characterized by stonemasonry where stones fit tightly together without mortar, allowing the structure to withstand natural forces like earthquakes. The ancient Incas believed the sun was the source of life and natural order, so they built such sacred spaces to hold sacrificial and astronomical ceremonies. Although the site has weathered over time and many original structures have not been fully preserved, it remains an indispensable physical piece of evidence for understanding Inca religious, social, and scientific thought.

Urubamba · 11.4 km from Santa Teresa

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Huayna Picchu

4.7

3.8/5

26 reviews

The towering peak behind the city ruins in the classic Machu Picchu postcard shot. While it may look intimidatingly steep in photos, you'll find it's not a vertical climb once you're on the trail. If you aren't particularly afraid of heights or are a fan of climbing, don't miss the hike to the top of Huayna Picchu. Standing on the giant granite rocks at the summit to look down over Machu Picchu is an experience you'll never forget.

Urubamba · 10.8 km from Santa Teresa

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No. 3 of Best Things to Do in Urubamba

Inca Trail

5.1

4.8/5

22 reviews

Machu Picchu is located in the Peruvian Andes and is a 15th-century Inca Empire ruins. Situated on a mountaintop at an altitude of 2,430 meters, this ancient temple complex is known as the "City in the Sky" and is known for its exquisite stone architecture, amazing engineering skills and beautiful scenery that coexist harmoniously with the mist-shrouded natural landscape. Visitors can hike along the Inca Trail to explore the remains of this mysterious civilization, including the Temple of the Sun, royal residences, and more.

Urubamba · 13.3 km from Santa Teresa

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Selected for Best Things to Do in Machu Picchu

Sacred Rock at Machu Picchu

4.6

4.0/5

14 reviews

Sacred Rock at Machu Picchu is located in the heart of the Sacred Valley of Machu Picchu and is a mysterious and important monolith. The Sacred Rock at Machu Picchu is approx. 3m high with a unique shape, serving as a physical symbol of the Inca civilization's worship of Mother Earth. The natural grooves on the rock's surface were regarded by the ancients as divine patterns, and the surrounding area is scattered with remnants of ceremonial platforms and irrigation canals. It can be reached by car from Ollantaytambo in approx. 40 minutes. The Sacred Rock at Machu Picchu is believed to be a place where the ancient Incas performed rituals and observed celestial phenomena. Visitors can feel the mysterious atmosphere of the Inca civilization here and enjoy the magnificent view of the surrounding Andes. Due to its cultural and historical value, please remain quiet and respectful when visiting the Sacred Rock at Machu Picchu. The recommended time to visit the Sacred Rock at Machu Picchu is early morning or late evening, when there are fewer tourists, allowing for a better experience of the Sacred Rock at Machu Picchu's mysterious aura. It is recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring enough water and sun protection.

Urubamba · 11.1 km from Santa Teresa

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Intihuatana, Urubamba

4.4

3.9/5

24 reviews

One of the greater mysteries at Machu Picchu is a massive stone carving called the Intihuatana, Urubamba. Some archaeoastronomers speculate that this exquisite, quadrilateral stone carving on a raised platform in the plaza is a sundial, while others say it was used for some form of astronomical observation. Although there is no consensus on its purpose, almost all archaeologists agree that the Intihuatana, Urubamba is one of the most sacred structures within Machu Picchu. How do you identify the Intihuatana, Urubamba? If you see a group of tourists from afar surrounding a large stone, reaching out their hands without touching it to feel the energy released by the stone, that is the Intihuatana, Urubamba. This Intihuatana, Urubamba has three very peculiar features. First, there is a corner next to the Intihuatana, Urubamba; this protruding corner points due north. You might want to bring a compass to verify the exquisite calculations of the Incas in the mid-15th century. The second peculiar feature is the upright stone on top of the Intihuatana, Urubamba. The cross-section of the stone has four corners that look somewhat irregular, and these four corners point exactly to the cardinal directions. The corner pointing due north aligns perfectly with a peak called Huayna Picchu, and the opposite direction, due south, also aligns with a peak. Similarly, the due west direction also aligns with a peak, but there is no peak to the east. Why? Because the sun needs to shine in. The Incas built this "City in the Sky" at such a high altitude to welcome the rising sun from the east, so how could there be a mountain blocking it? This is another peculiar feature, which is enough to show that the Incas were very wise.

Urubamba · 11.2 km from Santa Teresa

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Machu Picchu HotSprings

4.6

3.0/5

1 reviews

Machu Picchu HotSprings, also known as the hot springs town, is located at the foot of Machu Picchu. The hot springs were formed by volcanic activity in the region and are an ideal place for visitors to relax. These warm pools are surrounded by lush vegetation, with water temperatures maintained between 100°F–114°F, providing a comfortable experience for visitors to enjoy. Although the water is slightly yellowish, there is no need to worry, as this color comes from the sulfur, iron, and other minerals naturally present in the hot springs, which help relieve fatigue. Many visitors traveling to Machu Picchu include this in their itinerary. The hot spring area is equipped with changing rooms, showers, and lockers, making it convenient for visitors to better enjoy this unique natural experience.

Aguas Calientes · 12.9 km from Santa Teresa

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Temple of the Condor

4.2

3.9/5

29 reviews

The Temple of the Condor is an example of the superb craftsmanship of the Inca masons. The natural rock began to form millions of years ago, and the Incas used the natural shape of the rock to carve it, subtly showing a bald eagle in flight. Historians speculate that the vulture's head was used as an altar. Below the temple is a small cave where a mummy was once placed. There is a prison behind the temple with a niche for a person.

Urubamba · 11.4 km from Santa Teresa

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Selected for Best Things to Do in Peru

Templo Principal

4.1

5.0/5

16 reviews

The area where the main temple, the Three Window Temple and the Shuan Sun Stone are located is known as the Sacred Plaza. The buildings in this area are larger than other buildings in Machu Picchu, and the lintel rock of the main temple weighs 3 tons. This temple has only three walls, and next to the main temple is a humble little temple, which historians speculate is the place prepared by the priest.

Urubamba · 11.3 km from Santa Teresa

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Temple of the Three Windows

4.1

4.0/5

29 reviews

The Temple of the Triple Window, located within the ruins of Machu Picchu, is one of the outstanding examples of Inca architectural art. The temple is named for its unique three windows, which are believed to have important religious and astronomical significance. The design and arrangement of the windows demonstrate the Inca's superb stonework skills, and the fit between the stones is extremely high, which is breathtaking. The Temple of the Triple Window is one of the core buildings of Machu Picchu, where visitors can feel the mystery and magnificence of Inca culture. The location of the temple provides a good view overlooking the surrounding valleys and the Andes Mountains in the distance, making it an ideal place to take landscape photos. Due to the high altitude of Machu Picchu, visitors should be aware of altitude sickness and are advised to bring enough water and sunscreen. Transportation to Machu Picchu usually requires departure from Cusco, and arrival by train and bus. Please follow the protection regulations of the site when visiting, and do not touch or climb the monuments to maintain this precious cultural heritage.

Urubamba · 11.3 km from Santa Teresa

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Traveller favourites curated for you

No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Ollantaytambo

Ollantaytambo

6.5

4.1/5

38 reviews

Ollantaytambo · 43.2 km from Santa Teresa

Free attraction

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Machu Picchu Full-Day Tour from Cusco by Train

4.9/5

7 reviews93 booked

Departs from Cusco

Duration: 11.9 hrsEnglish

FromINR 37,950.05

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4D3N • 4Day Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu Circuit 2 & Coffee Tour

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4D3N • 4-Day Inca Jungle Trail to Machu Picchu Hiking and Biking Tour

4.9/5

45 reviews

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From INR 51,881

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Experiences you can't miss in Santa Teresa

Featured Culture & history in Santa Teresa

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Day Tour to the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu from Cusco, Peru (1 person minimum, daily departures, admission ticket included)

4.5/5

· 2 reviews· 24 booked

Duration: 12 hrs

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FromINR 37,687.10

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Cusco Highlights Audio Tour: Inca & Sacred Cusco

Duration: 2 hrs

English

Free cancellation

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20% off

Limited-time sale

FromINR 664.20INR 830.25

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Cusco half-day city tour: Qoricancha & four Inca archaeological sites

Duration: 5 hrs

English

Free cancellation

Instant confirmation

FromINR 1,256.98

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Cusco self-guided audio walking tour (8 stops, approx. 2 hrs)

Duration: 2 hrs

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FromINR 727.37

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Cusco Horseback Riding: Inca Temples & Scenic Viewpoints

Duration: 3.5 hrs

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FromINR 4,713.65

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1-day tour to Sacred Valley, Pisac, Ollantaytambo and Zona Arqueologica Moray from Cusco, Peru

Duration: 5.9 hrs

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Free cancellation

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FromINR 6,589.48

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From Cusco: Sacred Valley Highlights Full-Day Tour

Duration: 5 hrs

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FromINR 8,065.57

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Featured Day tours in Santa Teresa

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1-day tour to the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu from Cusco, Peru, including admission ticket, train ticket, and guide service

4.8/5

· 6 reviews· 37 booked

Duration: 12.1 hrs

English

69 travellers saved

FromINR 70,413.26

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Half-Day Tour: Moray, Maras Salt Mines & Chinchero

Duration: 6.6 hrs

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FromINR 3,142.44

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Machu Picchu Full-Day Tour from Cusco by Train | Circuit 2

Duration: 4.7 hrs

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FromINR 34,461.96

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City Tour Cusco Half Day & 4 Archaeological Ruins

5.0/5

· 1 review

Duration: 6.4 hrs

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FromINR 2,094.96

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Peru Cusco departure Sacred Valley + Pisac + Ollantaytambo + Zona Arqueologica Moray 1-day tour

4.0/5

· 1 review· 32 booked

Duration: 6 hrs

English

FromINR 6,903.27

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1-day tour to the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu from Cusco, Peru (admission ticket, train ticket and guide included)

Duration: 11.5 hrs

English

FromINR 70,432.09

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Featured Food & drink in Santa Teresa

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Cusco: ChocoMuseo's Chocolate Workshop

4.8/5

· 25 reviews

Duration: 2 hrs

Free cancellation

FromINR 3,143.28

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From Cusco: Humantay Lake Tour + Breakfast and Buffet Lunch

Duration: 1 day

Free cancellation

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FromINR 2,206.01

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Cusco: Walking Food Tour & City Tour

4.9/5

· 16 reviews

Duration: 4 hrs

Free cancellation

FromINR 5,958.20

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Cooking class and market tour with a local chef

5.0/5

· 26 reviews

Free cancellation

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26 consecutive positive reviews

FromINR 5,562.30

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Hands-On High-End Peruvian Cooking Class and Market Visit

Duration: 4 hrs

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FromINR 5,562.30

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Cusco: Peruvian Cooking Class, Cocktails & Local Market Tour

5.0/5

· 53 reviews

Duration: 250 mins

Free cancellation

53 consecutive positive reviews

FromINR 6,787.40

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Aguas Calientes: Lunch at Cafe Inkaterra Restaurant

5.0/5

· 1 review

Duration: 2 hrs

Free cancellation

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FromINR 2,262.12

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Unlock the Secrets of Pisco: A Hands-On Tour in Cusco

4.0/5

· 2 reviews

Duration: 2.5 hrs

Free cancellation

FromINR 3,299.14

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4D3N • 4-Day Jungle Adventure to Machu Picchu: Biking, Ziplining, Rafting and Hiking

5/5

2 reviews

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4D3N • Inca Jungle Trek 4 Days to Machu Picchu

5/5

43 reviews

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Free things to do in Santa Teresa

Intihuatana, Urubamba

4.4

3.9/5

24 reviews

Urubamba · 11.2 km from Santa Teresa

Templo Principal

4.1

5.0/5

16 reviews

Urubamba · 11.3 km from Santa Teresa

Ollantaytambo

6.5

4.1/5

38 reviews

Ollantaytambo · 43.2 km from Santa Teresa

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What travellers say about Santa Teresa

shanghaiboyuAugust 27, 2025

5.0

Machu Picchu boasts 140 structures, including temples, sanctuaries, parks, and residences, as well as over 100 stairways, numerous fountains, and a comprehensive water system. Abandoned during the Spanish invasion and the fall of the Inca Empire in the 16th century, Machu Picchu was discovered by Yale University professor Hiram Bingham in 1911. The ruins consist of two main areas: an urban area and an agricultural area, separated by a stone wall. Beyond the wall lie terraced agricultural areas, divided into high and low terraces depending on the terrain. The urban area is divided into three zones: the sacred area, the area for priests and nobles, and the southern area for commoners.

Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu

DEAR张小球May 17, 2020

5.0

Huayna Picchu is on the other side of the mountain from Machu Picchu. There are relatively few tourists here. It takes some time and energy to get there from Machu Picchu. It's a different feeling to see this mountain city from another high place.

Huayna Picchu

乖小咪September 12, 2019

5.0

This Inca Trail in Cusco has a history of more than 2,000 years. It was the trade route for the ancient Incas to travel between cities. Most of the roads along the way are mountains and ridges, and the road is very rugged. There are also many relics of Inca culture along the way. Now it is a great hiking route.

Inca Trail

东张西望望东西April 12, 2020

5.0

The Sacred Stone is a must-see when entering Machu Picchu. The Sacred Stone may be given more religious power in the local area, so it is more special. Of course, for us it is just a big stone, but respecting local beliefs and culture is absolutely necessary.

Sacred Rock at Machu Picchu

泰宁根吴承恩May 1, 2020

5.0

The Sun-Suppression Stone is located at the highest point of Machu Picchu. It is a stone that looks simple but full of mystery. From here you can see the entire view of Machu Picchu. The scene is very spectacular. The Inca civilization is really a treasure of mankind.

Intihuatana, Urubamba

apabaruSeptember 7, 2026

3.0

After visiting the Sun Gate at the Machu Picchu ruins, I returned to Machu Picchu village and, having some free time in the afternoon, went to the pool. It's a short 20-minute uphill walk from the town center. I brought my swimsuit, but forgot to bring slippers, though they are sold near the entrance. I bought some for 10 soles. The entrance fee is 20 soles, and there's a waterfall at the top, but that's an extra charge. There are lockers, and you get a locker key in exchange for your ID (passport). The pool is like a swimming pool with slightly lukewarm water. It's a little cloudy, but I managed to tolerate it and got in. About 80% of the people there are locals, and it seems like a place where children are having fun.

Machu Picchu HotSprings

quqkyOctober 14, 2020

3.0

It doesn't seem to be that famous, and the outline of the temple is not easy to associate with anything religious, because there are not many things left, but this place is still quite important in the local religion.

Temple of the Condor

A730May 30, 2016

5.0

It's spectacular, and the style is different from others.

Templo Principal

chinadesk1July 21, 2022

5.0

The Temple of the Three Windows is one of the attractions in Machu Picchu. In ancient times, it was used to worship the sun god, and this place may have been a place for religious ceremonies. The huge stones are neatly stacked, as if they were strictly measured. Many places in Machu Picchu are hard to imagine and full of mystery.

Temple of the Three Windows

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Frequently asked questions

What are the must-do things in Santa Teresa?

Don't miss these attractions in Santa Teresa: Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, The Temple of the Sun, and Huayna Picchu. If you like Culture & history, try Day Tour to the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu from Cusco, Peru (1 person minimum, daily departures, admission ticket included). If you enjoy Day tours, try 1-day tour to the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu from Cusco, Peru, including admission ticket, train ticket, and guide service.

What are the must-try foods and restaurants in Santa Teresa?

You can give Cusco: ChocoMuseo's Chocolate Workshop and From Cusco: Humantay Lake Tour + Breakfast and Buffet Lunch a try. Before you go, please check their opening hours and menus online. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

What are the recommended tours and excursions in Santa Teresa?

When choosing a tour, start with how much time you have and the kind of experience you're looking for. Trending options right now include 1-day tour to the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu from Cusco, Peru, including admission ticket, train ticket, and guide service, Half-Day Tour: Moray, Maras Salt Mines & Chinchero, and Machu Picchu Full-Day Tour from Cusco by Train | Circuit 2. Check the real-time availability and itinerary before you book.

What's the typical cost of day tours and activities in Santa Teresa?

As of November 15, 2026, the reference price for day tours and activities in Santa Teresa is around INR 2,094.96 – INR 70,432.09. Rates vary by duration, group size, transport, tickets, meals, and any special admission requirements. Before you book, please confirm the billing currency and whether the price is quoted per person or per group.

How can I contact Trip.com customer support?

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Can I change or cancel my booking?

Change and cancellation policies vary by attractions and tours. Please check the product details page for more information.

How can I get discounted prices?

Ticket prices may vary between weekdays and weekends, as well as during peak and off-peak seasons. When booking with Trip.com, you can also use Trip Coins to get extra savings. For more tips on booking discounted tickets, please visit Trip.com for the latest information.

Things to do in Santa Teresa

Explore top experiences

Top 10 attractions in Santa Teresa

Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu

The Temple of the Sun

Huayna Picchu

Inca Trail

Sacred Rock at Machu Picchu

Intihuatana, Urubamba

Machu Picchu HotSprings

Temple of the Condor

Templo Principal

Temple of the Three Windows

Traveller favourites curated for you

Ollantaytambo

Machu Picchu Full-Day Tour from Cusco by Train

4D3N • 4Day Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu Circuit 2 & Coffee Tour

4D3N • 4-Day Inca Jungle Trail to Machu Picchu Hiking and Biking Tour

Experiences you can't miss in Santa Teresa

Featured Culture & history in Santa Teresa

Featured Day tours in Santa Teresa

Featured Food & drink in Santa Teresa

More things to do

Group Tours in Santa Teresa

5D4N • Alternative Inca Trail - Salkantay Trek To Machu Picchu 5 Days, 4 Nights

4D3N • Inka Jungle Trek To Machu Picchu 4 Days, 3 Nights

3D2N • 3-days Special Offer Inca Jungle tour to Machu Picchu

4D3N • 4-Day Inca Jungle Tour: Machu Picchu Biking, Rafting, and Zipline

5D4N • 5 Days Salkantay Guided Trekking Tour

5D4N • 5-Day Tour Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

4D3N • 4-Day Jungle Adventure to Machu Picchu: Biking, Ziplining, Rafting and Hiking

4D3N • Inca Jungle Trek 4 Days to Machu Picchu

Free things to do in Santa Teresa

Intihuatana, Urubamba

Templo Principal

Ollantaytambo

What travellers say about Santa Teresa

Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu

Huayna Picchu

Inca Trail

Sacred Rock at Machu Picchu

Intihuatana, Urubamba

Machu Picchu HotSprings

Temple of the Condor

Templo Principal

Temple of the Three Windows

Frequently asked questions

What are the must-do things in Santa Teresa?

What are the must-try foods and restaurants in Santa Teresa?

What are the recommended tours and excursions in Santa Teresa?

What's the typical cost of day tours and activities in Santa Teresa?

How can I contact Trip.com customer support?

Can I change or cancel my booking?

How can I get discounted prices?