Huaca Mateo Salado
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Huaca Mateo Salado Lima

4.4
·1k reviews·Lima, Peru

Explore the monumental adobe pyramids of Huaca Mateo Salado, a significant Ychsma and Inca archaeological site in Lima. Discover ancient history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
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Huaca Mateo Salado

Huaca Mateo Salado Lima

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the monumental adobe pyramids of Huaca Mateo Salado, a significant Ychsma and Inca archaeological site in Lima. Discover ancient history.

4.4
(1k reviews)

"Extremely interesting site that shows how many other cultures emerged in Peru over time."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walk barefoot for connection

Feel the ancient earth beneath your feet for a spiritual connection, as locals have done for generations.

💰 Affordable Entry Fee

Adults pay a small fee (around 15 soles), kids are often free. Great value for history buffs!

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Five Pyramids

The Five Pyramids

The entire complex

Explore the monumental adobe structures, remnants of the Ychsma and Inca civilizations. A truly ancient sight.

TikTok
Ychsma Culture's Legacy

Ychsma Culture's Legacy

Throughout the complex

Discover the foundations of a civilization that predates the Incas, showcasing their architectural prowess.

Instagram
Inca Integration

Inca Integration

Integrated pathways

See how the Incas incorporated this site into their vast Qhapaq Ñan road system.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Heat

Visit during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds. Mornings are cooler and less busy, offering a more serene experience. Check opening hours as they can vary, especially on holidays. Instagram

Guide for Deeper Insights

While you can explore independently, a local guide significantly enhances understanding of the Ychsma and Inca history. Consider booking a tour for a richer cultural immersion. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Crowd
Low
When
Thursday-Saturday afternoons
Why
Open for tours & activities
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Los invasores de la Huaca 🤯😡🤬 #Lima #Entubarrio #peru #criolladas #informalidad #imposible
@entubarrio
1.3K likes • 30.7K views

🚶‍♀️ Walk barefoot for connection

Feel the ancient earth beneath your feet for a spiritual connection, as locals have done for generations. Instagram

💰 Affordable Entry Fee

Adults pay a small fee (around 15 soles), kids are often free. Great value for history buffs! Instagram

El complejo arqueológico Mateo Salado estuvo a punto de desaparecer. #tapial #adobe #arquitecturaantigua #preincas #perú🇵🇪 #turismo #historia #history #piramides #ruinas #huacas #yshma #etnohistoria #sagrado #incas #distritodebreña #destrucción #revalorizacióndepropiedades
@andinosubreal
690 likes • 8.3K views
POINT TURÍSTICO 🔟 / HUACA MATEO SALADO / #lima 📍Av Mariano Cornejo / Pueblo Libre ⏰ 10:00 Am - 3:00 Pm 📅 JUVES, VIERNES, SÁBADO 🔖 ENTRADA 15 ☀️ ADULTOS NIÑOS GRATIS #peru #pueblolibre #turismo #viajar #venezolanosenperu #venezolanosenlima #chamosenperu #chamosenlima #peruanos #extranjeros
turistteando
2K likes • 70.9K views

🗺️ Combine with Larco Museum

It's a short distance from the Larco Museum, making it easy to visit both in one day. Reddit

🗣️ Hire a local guide

Enhance your understanding of the site's rich history and cultural significance. Reddit

HUACA MATEO SALADO -LIMA ¿ CÓMO LLEGAR PASO A PASO -SÚPER BARATO? - 🤔ÍNTRODUCCIÓN. Es un lugar con mucha historia. Fue construido por la civilización que ocupaba Lima hace unos 1000 años atrás conocidos como los Yschma, quienes verían la llegada del imperio Inca y tras ser conquistados por ellos, Mateo Salado sería anexado a la gran red vial imperial conocida como Qhapaq Ñan, del cual se conserva...
kleyalcor
2 likes • 34 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk barefoot for connection

Feel the ancient earth beneath your feet for a spiritual connection, as locals have done for generations. Instagram

💰 Affordable Entry Fee

Adults pay a small fee (around 15 soles), kids are often free. Great value for history buffs! Instagram

🗺️ Combine with Larco Museum

It's a short distance from the Larco Museum, making it easy to visit both in one day. Reddit

🗣️ Hire a local guide

Enhance your understanding of the site's rich history and cultural significance. Reddit

👟 Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain, so sturdy footwear is a must. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.4
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Huaca Mateo Salado an extremely interesting site, offering a glimpse into Peru's diverse ancient cultures. While not as well-known as other attractions, its vastness and historical depth are highly appreciated, especially when explored with a guide. Some note the site isn't in perfect condition, but its unique story and cultural significance shine through.

"Extremely interesting site that shows how many other cultures emerged in Peru over time. Seems that not that many tourists know or care. Even if the Inkas used one pyramid as a burial site. So we had the vast site with 5 pyramids for ourselves. Entrance fee is 10 soles for adults. One for kids."

Till K

"Definitely worth visiting this complex of pyramids in Pueblo Libre. It’s only a short distance from the Larco Museum and should be combined with a visit to the Larco Museum in Pueblo Libre.

Complejo Arqueológico Mateo Salado: This archaeological complex was an important administrative and religious center for the Ychsma culture during the Late Intermediate Period, with construction beginning around 1100 AD. Later, during the Inca occupation, the site was modified and integrated into the Qhapaq Ñan, the extensive Inca road system. The complex is named after Matheus Saladé, a 16th-century French hermit who lived there. Today, it offers cultural and tourist activities, including daytime and nighttime tours and educational workshops."

Kieran Proctor (In Lovely Blue)

"This archaeological complex was an important administrative and religious center for the Ychsma culture during the Late Intermediate Period, with construction beginning around 1100 AD. Later, during the Inca occupation, the site was modified and integrated into the Qhapaq Ñan, the extensive Inca road system. The complex is named after Matheus Saladé, a 16th-century French hermit who lived there. Today, it offers cultural and tourist activities, including daytime and nighttime tours and educational workshops."

Pueblo Libre

What People Like

Fascinating history
Vast archaeological site
Affordable entry fee

What People Dislike

Site condition varies
Less touristy

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From Miraflores, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service directly to Huaca Mateo Salado in Pueblo Libre. Alternatively, you can use public transport by taking a bus towards Pueblo Libre and then a short taxi ride. Instagram

Yes, it is accessible by public transport. Buses that go through Pueblo Libre will get you close, and from there, it's a short walk or a quick taxi ride. Instagram

From Barranco, a taxi or ride-sharing app is the most straightforward option. Public transport would involve multiple transfers and take significantly longer. Instagram

Parking can be challenging in the surrounding urban area. It's advisable to use ride-sharing services or public transport if possible, or be prepared to search for street parking. Instagram

It's located in Pueblo Libre, making it a convenient stop before or after visiting the Larco Museum. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Huaca Mateo Salado is typically open from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. It's always a good idea to check for any last-minute changes. Instagram

The entrance fee is around 15 soles for adults, with children often entering for free. This offers excellent value for exploring this historical site. Instagram

Advance booking is generally not required for individual visitors. You can usually purchase tickets upon arrival. Instagram

Yes, guided tours are highly recommended to fully appreciate the history and significance of the site. Inquire upon arrival or check their schedule. Reddit

Yes, children are welcome and often enter for free. It can be an educational experience for them to learn about ancient Peruvian cultures. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore five large adobe pyramids, learn about the Ychsma and Inca cultures, and appreciate the scale of this ancient administrative and religious center. TikTokInstagram

Access to climb the pyramids might be restricted for preservation purposes. Always follow signage and staff instructions. Instagram

It's generally less crowded than more famous sites, especially on weekdays. Weekends can see more local visitors. Reddit

Wear comfortable walking shoes as the terrain can be uneven. Light, breathable clothing is recommended due to the Lima climate. Instagram

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

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed. However, be mindful of any restricted areas and respect the historical nature of the site. Instagram

The panoramic views from slightly elevated points offer great shots of the pyramids. The textures of the adobe walls are also very photogenic. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted at archaeological sites to protect them. It's best to check local regulations before flying. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon light provides softer shadows and a more dramatic look for photographing the adobe structures. Instagram

Capture the scale of the pyramids against the urban backdrop, and look for details in the adobe construction. Instagram

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