The mystical site of El Fuerte exudes such pulling power that visitors from all over the world come to climb to these remains of the Incas' eastern outpost. A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998, the giant carved rock temple and its accompanying ruins occupy the crown of a hill 9km east of Samaipata, and offer breathtaking views across the valleys.
Origins
The site of El Fuerte was first occupied by diverse indigenous groups as early as 2000 BCE. It wasn’t until 1470 CE that the Incas, the most famous tenants, arrived. By the time the Spanish came and looted the site in the 1600s it was already deserted. The remains of over 500 dwellings have been discovered in the immediate vicinity.
Carved Stone Sanctuary
You'll ascend about 200m up a dirt track and stairs to reach the main site. Here, the 100m-long carved stone slab is almost certainly of religious significance. The many sculpted features include seats, troughs and hornecinos (niches), which are believed to have held idols or funerary urns. Seven steps leading up to the main temple represent the phases of the moon.
Zoomorphic designs include reliefs of pumas and jaguars (representing power) and serpents (representing fertility). Chicha (fermented corn) and blood were poured into the snake designs as an offering to Pachamama (Mother Earth). Erosion is making the designs difficult to discern.
Transport
Round-trip taxis from Samaipata, including a 1½-hour wait at the ruins, charge B$100 for up to four people. On the approach look for La Cabeza del Inca, a rock formation resembling the head of an Inca. Watch, too, for condors and, in November, parrots nesting in rock faces.
