Discovering Calle Siete Borreguitos – Why This Steep Cobblestone Street Became Cusco’s Most Authentic Instagram Spot

Ultima actualización en 30 April, 2026 por Waman Adventures

Last Updated on 30 April, 2026 by Waman Adventures

Calle Siete Borreguitos is one of Cusco’s most authentic and less well know corners, ideal for those looking to escape mass tourism and discover the city from a different perspective. In this guide, we’ll tell you why it’s worth visiting, how to get there, what photos you can’t miss, and some curious facts about its name and history. If you love photography or simply enjoy leisurely walks, here’s how to make the most of it.

What Siete Borreguitos Street is Like

Calle Siete Borreguitos is currently very popular among people seeking a unique experience through the streets of Cusco.

When you walk along Calle Siete Borreguitos, you’ll feel like you’re entering a secret corner of Cusco that seems to exist outside of time. This small, steep street is located between the Plaza de Armas and the San Cristobal viewpoint.

Along the way, you will see houses that combine white adobe and stone, red tile roofs, and carved wooden balconies decorated with flowers that neighbors water every day. You’ll also find murals with Andean motifs, carefully crafted urban designs, handicrafts, and small workshops along the route.

During your visit, make sure to take a good photo. Sometimes you’ll find llamas or alpacas at iconic spots, perfect for an authentic postcard of your time in Cusco.

The Curious Name of Calle Siete Borreguitos and its Meaning

The originality of its name dates back to the old Cusqueñan women who used to walk with their sheep.

The story goes that, a long time ago, women from the San Cristóbal neighborhood used to pass through this cobblestone street on their way to the Tullumayu River to wash their clothes, baskets, or blankets. They did so accompanied by their little sheep. Most say there were seven, although other versions mention a different number. Still, the number seven ended up sticking as part of the name.

This name wasn’t given randomly. According to anthropologist Rossano Calvo, many streets in Cusco carry the prefix “seven” because that number has strong symbolism: the seven days of creation, the seven deadly sins, among others. Therefore, the neighborhood’s everyday history blended with that symbolic background.

Did you know…?
The colonial balconies on the street are carefully preserved, and many date back to the 18th century.

Location and How to Get to Calle Siete Borreguitos

When you arrive, make sure to pass through Cusco’s Plaza Mayor and enjoy the historic center.

From the Plaza de Armas, your route is as follows:

1. Take Resbalosa Street or Plateros Street, both heading toward the historic San Cristóbal neighborhood.
2. You can also take this other option: from the Plaza de Armas, go up Triunfo Street to the Stone of Twelve Angles, turn left on Choquechaca, and you’ll find Calle Siete Borreguitos on your right.

This is What You’ll See on Siete Borreguitos Street:

You will discover a scene worthy of a movie:

• The white walls, typical of colonial architecture, blend with red tile roofs and carved wooden balconies.
• Neighbors have decorated it with hanging flowers, and there are clay pots that fill the passage with vibrant colors during much of the year.
• You will see the narrow stone stairway.
• You will notice murals with Andean motifs and recent street art coexist with that traditional architecture.

Siete Borreguitos street has many attractions for tourists, such as its workshops and more.

Your Best Photo Awaits You on Calle Siete Borreguitos

If you enjoy capturing authentic moments, this street is the perfect place for you. You just need to know how to take advantage of it.

Perfect Setting for Your Best Photos

Calle Siete Borreguitos has become a favorite for taking photos thanks to its authentic charm: carved balconies, whitewashed walls, and hanging flowers that neighbors care for with dedication.

Additionally, you will find murals that integrate beautifully with the colonial architecture.

Tips for Capturing a Memorable Image

• If you arrive before 8 a.m., you will enjoy a golden, soft light that will bring your photos to life.
• Place your camera at the foot of the stairs and point upward; this this will give you a perspective that highlights the balconies filled with flowers.
• Focus on the pots, flowers, a mural, and if you want, take advantage of posing with a llama or alpaca you might find.
• Go early to avoid crowds and have more freedom to take your photos.

To get the perfect shot, make sure to focus on both sides of the street.

Warning:
Although Cusco is a safe city, it’s important to keep your belongings monitored.

Siete Borreguitos, a Tradition Among Flowers and Stone

When you walk along siete borreguitos street, remember that you’re not just passing through a beautiful place. You can also enjoy the activities nearby, such as artisan workshops open to the public. There, Cusquenian artisans work on pieces like altarpieces, sculptures, alpaca textiles dyed with natural pigments, musical instruments and more, all handmade.

This way, you can share their stories and learn about the craft process, which is passed down from generation to generation.

This street is adorned with many flowerpots, which contrast with the colors of the wall.

The Essentials for Enjoying Siete Borreguitos

The “Siete” Streets and Their History in Cusco

According to various studies, this number represented the connection between the earthly and the spiritual. Additionally, the names reflected popular experiences or symbols important to Cusqueños.

Here are some streets that allude to the number 7:

• Siete Culebras: owes its name to 14 serpents carved on the walls, seven on each side, a symbol of Andean wisdom.
• Siete Ventanas: is named after an old house with seven windows (four large and three small).
• Siete Diablitos: an alley famous for being a secret meeting point between lovers, with a mischievous and mysterious air.
• Siete Angelitos: the name comes from seven angels painted on the eaves of a house to spiritually protect it.
• Siete Cuartones: refers to seven stone beams that were part of a bridge over the Saphy River.
• Siete Mascarones: received its name from the seven bronze masks that adorned old facades in the neighborhood.
• Siete Borreguitos: tradition says that women used to pass through there with seven sheep or that a neighbor had that many, and that’s how the name stuck.

Numbered streets like Siete Borreguitos and Siete Culebritas are perfect examples of how tradition and colonial architecture blend.

The Story Doesn’t End at Calle Siete Borreguitos

If you’ve already passed through that magical corner and captured your perfect photo, you can continue exploring these places:

• Go up to the San Cristóbal viewpoint.
• Admire the Stone of Twelve Angles at Hatun Rumiyoc.
• Explore the San Blas neighborhood.
• Visit the Pre-Columbian Art Museum.

Visit with Respect

Calle Siete Borreguitos isn’t just a pretty place for photos; it is a living neighborhood. When exploring it:

• Don’t pick flowers or graffiti the walls.
• Ask before taking photos of people.
• Don’t enter houses or private patios, even if they seem part of the tour.
• Take your trash with you.
• Support local artisans if you see someone offering handmade work.

Calle Siete Borreguitos isn’t just a street; it’s a place that combines colonial balconies, hanging flowers, ancient walls, and folk art. This corner invites you to connect with the living history of the city. If you want to discover it in an unforgettable way, Waman Adventures will help you coordinate your arrival, organize your itinerary, choose the best times, and much more. Write to us at +51 979 858 544. Don’t miss out, this unique moment is waiting for you!

Frequently Asked Questions About Calle Siete Borreguitos