Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The site is on a monumental scale; some researchers believe that, as well as serving a
defensive purpose, it was designed as a sort of ceremonial replica of Cuzco, the Inca cap-
ital. The site's most significant building, the
kallanka,
measures a colossal 80m by 25m.
The roof was supported by immense columns. Outside it is a large boulder, probably a
speakers' platform. At the western end of the site is a curious six-sided tower, perhaps
used for astronomical observation. On the hilltop, a huge zigzag defensive wall has a
baffled defensive entrance.
The ruins were made known to the world in 1914 by Swedish zoologist and ethnologist
Ernest Nordenskiöld, who spent a week at the ruins measuring and mapping them.
However, they were largely ignored - except by ruthless treasure hunters - for the next 50
years, until the University of San Simón in Cochabamba launched its investigations.
At Pocona, 17km from the ruins, there's an information center and a small exhibition of
archaeological finds from the site.
Tours
Cochabamba agencies run day trips to Incallajta when they have a group large enough to
make it worthwhile. Fremen Tours (
Click here
)
is recommended. Beware of tours that
seem suspiciously cheap or that involve 'trekking'. That usually means getting a cab to
the
cruce
(turnoff) and walking up to the site - you can do that yourself.
Sleeping & Eating
Without your own transportation, visiting Incallajta will prove inconvenient at best. Addi-
tionally, if you can't arrange lodging in private homes, you'll probably have to camp for
two or three nights so be sure to take plenty of water, food, warm clothing and camping
gear. Camping and basic shelters are available at the Centro de Investigaciones in Pocona.
Getting There & Away
Taxis (B$18, three hours) and
micros
(B$20, five hours) to Pocona leave Cochabamba
when full between 5am and 6pm from the corner of República and Manuripi. Get off at
the turnoff for the site at Collpa. From here it's an 8km uphill walk. If you'd rather not
walk, Pocona is a further 9km past Collpa and you can strike a deal with a taxi driver
there.
