Last updated on December 20, 2023.
A prominent site just above the UNESCO World Heritage city of Cusco is Cristo Blanco, built on a mountain called Pukamuqu. It’s a large statue of Christ built by a group of Christian Palestinian refugees who came to Cusco in 1945. They built it as a gift of thanks to Cusco when they returned to their homeland.
Walking Up
During my visit, the short path to the statue was lined with vendors selling crafts.
Views of Cusco
From the statue, you get yet another perspective of Cusco from above. Admission is free. Cristo Blanco can be reached by an uphill climb near the entrance to Saqsayhuamán. There is a small bridge across a creek, then a dirt path to the top. Be careful on the path – it can get steep.
Getting There
Access to the site is possible via taxi or a long uphill walk from Cusco. The walk can be difficult especially in the altitude. Also, a guard will probably ask to see your Cusco Touristic Ticket (Boleto Turístico) before letting you continue up to the statue (the path is on the way to Saqsayhuamán). See the map below for the walking route from Plaza de Armas.