Things to Do in Calca

Everything you need to explore Calca — top attractions, local dining, insider tips and transport.

Historic in Calca

Mercado de Calca
Free 0.2 km from centre

Covered market where farmers sell produce, cheese, and handmade textiles. No tourist markups here—prices are for locals.

🕐 Daily 6am–5pm

💡 Try the fresh queso fresco (white cheese) and buy a bag of coca leaves for 2 soles—great for altitude.

Hotels near Mercado de Calca →
Ruinas de Huchuy Qosqo
Free 5.0 km from centre

Inca terraces and stone buildings perched on a mountainside above the Sacred Valley. Free to visit, but you need a short uphill hike.

🕐 Daylight hours

💡 Take a micro from Calca to the village of Pisac (2 soles), then walk up the path behind the football field. The views down to the valley are better than at Machu Picchu.

Hotels near Ruinas de Huchuy Qosqo →

Park in Calca

Mirador de Calca
Free 0.6 km from centre

Small viewpoint on a hill at the north edge of town. You can see the entire Calca basin, the Urubamba River, and snowy peaks behind.

🕐 24 hours

💡 Best at 6am before the clouds roll in. Bring water—the steep cobbled street up is a proper lung-test at 3,400m.

Hotels near Mirador de Calca →
Plaza de Armas de Calca
Free 1.0 km from centre

The central square, shaded by trees and dominated by a large colonial church. Locals gather here in the evenings, and there's usually a market on Sundays.

🕐 24 hours

💡 Go at dusk when the church facade lights up and food stalls sell anticuchos (grilled hearts) for a few soles.

Hotels near Plaza de Armas de Calca →

Cultural in Calca

Baños Termales de Machacancha
0 4.0 km from centre

Natural hot springs on the outskirts of Calca, with three concrete pools fed by thermal water. Basic changing rooms and cold showers.

🕐 Daily 7am–5pm

💡 Entrance is 3 soles. Go early on weekdays to avoid local foot-washers. The hottest pool is the smallest one furthest from the entrance.

Hotels near Baños Termales de Machacancha →

Where to Eat in Calca

Restaurante Quechua Local ££
El Fogon peruvian ££
Sabor Lareño Local ££

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best things to do in Calca?

The top attractions include Mercado de Calca, Mirador de Calca, Plaza de Armas de Calca, Ruinas de Huchuy Qosqo, Baños Termales de Machacancha.

How many days do you need in Calca?

Most visitors spend 2–4 days to see the main highlights. Three days is ideal for a first visit — see our Calca 3-day itinerary for a day-by-day plan.

What is Calca famous for?

Calca is known for its history, culture and distinctive character. Visitors come for the landmarks, food scene and local atmosphere.

Where should I eat in Calca?

Top options include Restaurante Quechua, El Fogon, Sabor Lareño.