Baños de la Ñusta (Princess Baths)
Sacred Inca site for princess purification rituals, blending history, legend, and stunning stonework within Ollantaytambo.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Baños de la Ñusta (Princess Baths)
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Sacred Inca site for princess purification rituals, blending history, legend, and stunning stonework within Ollantaytambo.
"Incredible, magical place, the whole place itself. Unmissable."
💧 Feel the Water's Magic
Touch the water; legend says it purifies.
🚶♀️ Explore the Complex
It's part of the larger Ollantaytambo site, don't miss other areas!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Princess Baths
Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site
A sacred stone structure where Inca princesses performed purification rituals with fresh mountain water.
Legend of Cura Oqllo
Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site
Hear the tragic tale of an Inca woman's purification rite, a story of pain and sacrifice.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the Ritual
Combine with Ollantaytambo
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Feel the Water's Magic
Touch the water; legend says it purifies.
🚶♀️ Explore the Complex
It's part of the larger Ollantaytambo site, don't miss other areas!
📜 Learn the History
Understand the rituals and legends for a richer visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Feel the Water's Magic
Touch the water; legend says it purifies.
🚶♀️ Explore the Complex
It's part of the larger Ollantaytambo site, don't miss other areas!
📜 Learn the History
Understand the rituals and legends for a richer visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Baños de la Ñusta to be an 'incredible, magical place' and an unmissable part of the Ollantaytambo complex. Its historical significance as a purification site for Inca princesses, coupled with the poignant legends, leaves a lasting impression. The intricate stonework and connection to nature are frequently praised.
"Part of the complex in Ollantaytambo."
Martin B Goetz-Jablonowski
"The place where the Inca's daughters had to perform a purification rite with mountain water."
jean-pascal
"Incredible, magical place, the whole place itself. Unmissable."
Alicia Bersi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Baños de la Ñusta is located within the Ollantaytambo archaeological site. You can reach Ollantaytambo by taxi or colectivo from Cusco, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Once inside the archaeological site, the Princess Baths are a short walk from the main ruins.
Yes, colectivos (shared vans) are a popular and affordable way to travel between Cusco and Ollantaytambo. They depart frequently from the city.
Many visitors hire a local guide at the entrance of Ollantaytambo to learn about the history and significance of the various structures, including the Baños de la Ñusta.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Baños de la Ñusta is included with your general admission ticket to the Ollantaytambo archaeological site.
Tickets can be purchased at the main entrance of the Ollantaytambo archaeological site. It's advisable to buy them early in the day to avoid queues.
The Ollantaytambo archaeological site typically opens around 7:00 AM and closes around 6:00 PM. It's best to check the official hours before your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Baños de la Ñusta, meaning 'Princess Baths,' was a ceremonial site where Inca princesses performed purification rituals using the cold mountain water. It highlights the Incas' aesthetic sensitivity and connection to nature.
Yes, visitors are encouraged to touch the water. According to local lore, the water has purifying properties.
While the baths themselves are a small part of the site, you should allocate at least 2-3 hours to explore the entire Ollantaytambo archaeological complex, including the Princess Baths.
The site is generally accessible, but involves walking on uneven terrain within the larger archaeological complex. Comfortable footwear is recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the intricate stonework of the baths with the surrounding Inca terraces in the background. The morning light often provides beautiful, soft illumination.
Generally, photography is allowed within the Ollantaytambo archaeological site, including Baños de la Ñusta. However, always be respectful of the historical site and other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Culture Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Inca's Aesthetic and Rituals
Beyond its architectural beauty, the site is steeped in legend. One poignant story tells of Cura Oqllo, an Inca woman whose tragic tale is associated with the purification rites. These narratives add a layer of emotional depth to the visit, inviting contemplation on the lives and beliefs of the people who built and used these sacred spaces.
Visiting Baños de la Ñusta offers a glimpse into the spiritual and cultural practices of the Inca. It’s not just about seeing ancient stones; it’s about feeling the history and understanding the symbolic importance of water in Inca society. The experience is enhanced by the surrounding Ollantaytambo archaeological site, which provides a broader context of Inca urban planning and religious life.
Exploring Ollantaytambo: A Living Inca Town
The site itself is a marvel of Inca engineering, featuring massive stone terraces that climb the steep hillsides, a formidable fortress, and the iconic Temple Hill. Wandering through the narrow cobblestone streets, you can imagine life here centuries ago. The Temple of the Sun, with its precisely cut megalithic stones, is a highlight, showcasing the Incas' unparalleled masonry skills.
When visiting Baños de la Ñusta, it's highly recommended to dedicate ample time to explore the entirety of Ollantaytambo. Consider hiring a local guide to unlock the stories behind the structures and gain a deeper appreciation for this remarkable historical treasure. The combination of the sacred baths and the expansive ruins offers a comprehensive understanding of Inca culture and ingenuity.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit