Abode of the Gods Apukunaq Tianan - brown temple
1 / 10

Abode of the Gods Apukunaq Tianan

4.2
·2k reviews·, Peru

A unique artistic park near Cusco featuring intricate sculptures and panoramic valley views, offering a mystical experience.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Abode of the Gods Apukunaq Tianan - brown temple

Abode of the Gods Apukunaq Tianan

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A unique artistic park near Cusco featuring intricate sculptures and panoramic valley views, offering a mystical experience.

4.2
(2k reviews)

"It's amazing if you don't like it you're a lost soul lol, it's impossible really to describe this place, maybe just call it a work of art?"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Taxi Negotiation

Not all taxis go to the top. Negotiate a round-trip price or be prepared to find a driver willing to wait. :taxi:

⏳ Beat the Crowds

Visit early or late to avoid crowds and get better photos of the sculptures. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Heart of the Mountain

The Heart of the Mountain

Inner chamber

Venture into the 'Heart of the Mountain' for a unique, mystical experience. An additional fee applies.

TikTok
Intricate Sculptures

Intricate Sculptures

Throughout the park

Marvel at the detailed plaster sculptures and carvings by a local artist, showcasing unique artistic vision.

Reddit
Panoramic Valley Views

Panoramic Valley Views

Overlooks

Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valley, offering a beautiful contrast to the art.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Getting There: Plan Your Ride

Accessing Apukunaq Tianan requires a bit of planning. While close to Cusco, not all taxis go all the way up. Consider arranging a round trip with your driver or booking a tour for seamless transport. Reddit

Timing is Key for Photos

This artistic park can get crowded quickly, making photo opportunities challenging. Visiting during off-peak hours can help you capture the sculptures and panoramic views without the rush. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Estamos en La Morada de los Dioses - Apukunaq Tianan. Un lugar mágico y único. El ingreso al Corazón de la Montaña tiene un costo adicional de 5 soles By: @michaeldetitan #apukunaqtianan #lamoradadelosdioses #esculturas #tallados #cusco #peru
@apukunaqtianan
56.6K likes • 1.4M views

🚗 Taxi Negotiation

Not all taxis go to the top. Negotiate a round-trip price or be prepared to find a driver willing to wait. Reddit :taxi:

⏳ Beat the Crowds

Visit early or late to avoid crowds and get better photos of the sculptures. Reddit :camerawithflash:

💰 Extra Fee for Heart

The 'Heart of the Mountain' experience has an additional entrance fee. TikTok :moneywithwings:

👟 Comfortable Shoes

Wear comfortable shoes as there's some walking involved to explore the artistic site. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Taxi Negotiation

Not all taxis go to the top. Negotiate a round-trip price or be prepared to find a driver willing to wait. Reddit :taxi:

⏳ Beat the Crowds

Visit early or late to avoid crowds and get better photos of the sculptures. Reddit :camerawithflash:

💰 Extra Fee for Heart

The 'Heart of the Mountain' experience has an additional entrance fee. TikTok :moneywithwings:

👟 Comfortable Shoes

Wear comfortable shoes as there's some walking involved to explore the artistic site. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

What Travellers Say

4.2
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Apukunaq Tianan to be a unique artistic park with interesting sculptures and beautiful valley views, offering a different experience from Cusco's historical sites. While some appreciate its artistic merit and mystical elements, others note its small size and potential for crowds, suggesting it might be a secondary visit after exploring major attractions.

"Fun day excursion outside of Cusco with a lot of fun photo opps and a beautiful panoramic view. Just fyi, we had two ubers drop us before finding one that would take us up there. Our uber ended up waiting for us to take us back for a renegotiated price."

xtremejlou

"As of December 2024, in our tour package, this location was included, and I would not waste my time. You can come on your own and probably eat food here ( I didn't do it), just a suggestion. The park is still under construction. It is quite small and can be explored in about 10min minutes. It gets crowded really quick, and it takes forever to take a picture. The sculptures, created by a local artist, it's all plastered. There are definitely better things to do in Cusco and go to some natural ruins thats included in the city tour ticket."

Luis De La Vega

"It's amazing if you don't like it you're a lost soul lol, it's impossible really to describe this place, maybe just call it a work of art?"

John West

What People Like

Unique sculptures and art
Panoramic valley views
Artistic and magical atmosphere

What People Dislike

Small size, quick to explore
Can get crowded quickly
Less significant than historical ruins

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The easiest way is by taxi or Uber. However, be aware that not all drivers are willing to go all the way up. It's recommended to negotiate a round-trip price with your driver, who can wait for you. Alternatively, some tour packages include this destination. Reddit

Yes, if you have a rental car, access is generally easy, and it offers flexibility in your visit. Reddit

Public transport is not a common or direct option. Taxis and private arrangements are the most practical ways to reach the site. Reddit

The journey from Cusco typically takes around 30-45 minutes by car, depending on traffic conditions. Reddit

Many hotels in Cusco can assist in arranging taxis or tours that include Apukunaq Tianan, often with pre-negotiated rates. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is an entrance fee for the park itself. Additionally, accessing the 'Heart of the Mountain' requires a separate, additional fee. TikTok

The main entrance fee covers the general park. The 'Heart of the Mountain' is an optional add-on with its own cost. TikTok

Tickets are typically purchased upon arrival at the site. It's advisable to check for any online booking options if available, though on-site purchase is common. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, but it's generally open during daylight hours. It's best to confirm current hours before your visit, especially if planning a late afternoon trip. Reddit

As of recent visits, parts of the park may still be under construction, but the main attractions are accessible. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography & Art

The site features unique plaster sculptures and carvings created by a local artist, often with themes related to crystals and energy. Reddit

Yes, it offers many unique photo opportunities with its sculptures and panoramic views. However, it can get crowded, making it challenging to get unobstructed shots. Reddit+1

Weekday mornings or late afternoons during the golden hour often provide better lighting and fewer crowds for photography. Reddit

Generally, photography is allowed throughout the park. However, always be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage. TikTok

The sculptures are notable for their intricate details and the artistic style of the local artist who created them. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Some reviews suggest that food might be available for purchase at the site, though it's not the primary focus. Reddit

Bringing your own snacks and water is generally a good idea, especially if you plan to spend a few hours exploring. Reddit

The site is located outside the main city, so dining options directly adjacent are limited. It's best to eat before or after your visit in Cusco. Reddit

If food is available, it's likely to be simple snacks or local fare. It's not a destination known for its culinary offerings. Reddit

It's more of a place for art and views. If you're hungry, consider it for a quick bite rather than a full meal. Reddit

🎫 💡 Onsite Experience

The park is relatively small and can be explored in about 10-30 minutes, depending on how long you spend admiring the sculptures and views. Reddit

This is a special chamber within the site that requires an additional fee to enter, offering a unique, possibly mystical, experience. TikTok

Opinions vary. Some find it a unique artistic experience, while others feel it's less significant than historical ruins. It depends on your interests. Reddit

It's described as a magical, unique place, a work of art, with an emphasis on crystals and their energy for some visitors. Reddit+1

Basic facilities are usually available, but it's always good to be prepared. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Apukunaq Tianan can be an interesting stop for families looking for something different near Cusco. The unique sculptures might capture children's imaginations, offering a visual feast. However, it's important to note that the site is relatively small and some visitors find it can be explored quickly. Reddit

Consider it as a short excursion rather than a full-day activity. The panoramic views are also a nice bonus. Ensure children are supervised, and be prepared for the possibility of an additional fee for the 'Heart of the Mountain' if you decide to explore that area. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Apukunaq Tianan offers a distinctive set of subjects. The intricate plaster sculptures provide opportunities for detailed shots, while the panoramic valley views offer broader landscapes. Reddit+1

To maximize your photographic potential, aim for weekday mornings or late afternoons to avoid crowds and capture the best light. The 'Heart of the Mountain' chamber also presents unique lighting and compositional possibilities. TikTokReddit

🧘‍♀️ Spiritual & Wellness Seekers

If you are drawn to the energetic properties of crystals and spiritual sites, Apukunaq Tianan might resonate deeply with you. The park's art often incorporates themes related to these energies, and the 'Heart of the Mountain' is specifically highlighted for its mystical qualities. TikTokReddit

While not a traditional archaeological site, it offers a contemporary space for reflection and connection with unique artistic expressions that some find spiritually uplifting. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Artistic Vision of Apukunaq Tianan

Apukunaq Tianan, meaning 'Abode of the Gods' in Quechua, is a testament to the creative spirit of a local artist. The park is adorned with a series of intricate plaster sculptures and carvings, each telling a unique story or conveying a specific energy. Unlike the ancient Inca ruins that dot the Cusco region, this site offers a contemporary artistic perspective. Visitors often describe it as a 'work of art' and a 'magical place,' highlighting the distinctiveness of the creations. Reddit+1

Many of the sculptures are said to be related to crystals and their energies, appealing to those interested in spiritual or holistic themes. While some visitors may not personally connect with this aspect, they still appreciate the craftsmanship and the unique aesthetic. The park's relatively compact size means it can be explored quickly, but the detailed artistry invites closer inspection. Reddit

For those seeking a different kind of cultural experience in Cusco, Apukunaq Tianan provides a refreshing contrast to historical sites. It's a place where art, nature, and perhaps a touch of mysticism converge, offering a memorable and visually stimulating excursion. Reddit

Navigating Access and Transportation

Getting to the Abode of the Gods requires some logistical consideration. While it's located a relatively short distance from Cusco, not all taxis are willing to make the journey all the way to the entrance. Travelers often report needing to find a second taxi or negotiate a specific fare for the trip. Reddit

To ensure a smooth experience, it's highly recommended to arrange a round-trip with your driver. This way, your driver will wait for you while you explore the site and then take you back to Cusco. Alternatively, booking a tour that includes Apukunaq Tianan can simplify transportation arrangements. If you prefer the freedom of a rental car, access is generally straightforward. Reddit

Understanding these transportation nuances can save you time and potential hassle, allowing you to focus on enjoying the unique artistic creations and scenic views that Apukunaq Tianan has to offer. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2