The plateau of Marcahuasi was brought to light by Dr. Daniel Ruzzo in September of 1952. In 1923, archaeologist Julio C. Tello had already reported the existence of dammed pools that had canals of water distribution, such as Pampacocha and Wayacocha located on the western slope of Marcahuasi. According to the people of San Pedro de Casta, the plateau once had 12 pools or reservoirs, each with its own irrigating canal. With respect to the formations nestled in the plateau, mystics say that they are the vestiges of an ancient civilization, of a race of expert sculptors; the more practical, on the other hand, claim that the formations are the simple result of a volcanic eruption of diorite that the erosion later molded at its whim.

The plateau can be found in the mountains of Lima over 3000 meters high to the east of the district of San Pedro de Casta, province of Huarochiri, over the Santa Eulalia Valley. One can admire an enormous rock carved by the erosion of the wind and the rain, which is known as the Monument of Humanity, in addition to others such as the Toad, the Seal, the Tortoise and many more. In many of these rock formations, one has to use his imagination in order to see the figures. People of the area speak of frequent UFO visits.

Another attraction is the Amphitheater, a site surrounded by immense rock walls ideal for camping because of their wind protection. One can also find Incan Chulpas in addition to the remains of a fortress and various pools, which are now dried up except for one. There is also a zone that leads to the valley in which one can admire enormous rock walls of different shapes, and stopping at the border, one can see the impressive abyss below.