Explore Cusco and visit some of the places that best reflect its Inca and colonial heritage. The tour begins in the historic center and continues to important archaeological sites around the city, including Sacsayhuamán, Q’enqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay. A convenient way to see Cusco’s main highlights in just a few hours, accompanied by a guide who will explain the history and significance of each site.
Daily departures at 1:00 p.m. (Can be scheduled for 9:00 a.m.)
We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 1:00 p.m. or 9:00 a.m. and transfer you to the Plaza de Armas, Cusco’s main square, located in the heart of the city and surrounded by historic buildings, including the Cathedral and the Church of the Society of Jesus. The plaza is a meeting point for locals and visitors, and a venue for events and festivals. A walking city tour will begin, exploring attractions, restaurants, and shops.
After the main square, you will visit emblematic streets and neighborhoods, such as the Street of the Twelve-Angled Stone (Hatun Rumiyoc), San Blas, and Loreto Street. Exploring these areas offers a good overview of Cusco’s history and culture.
Then you will visit Coricancha (Temple of the Sun), a must-see. It was one of the most important temples of the Inca Empire, dedicated to the sun god Inti. It was covered in gold and decorated with precious stones, becoming one of their most remarkable constructions. After the Spanish conquest, the Church of Santo Domingo was built on top of the temple, using some of the Inca stonework as its foundation.
The second part of the tour begins with a 15-minute transfer to Sacsayhuamán, a large Inca fortress just outside Cusco. It is a prime example of engineering and stonework, with walls of enormous blocks fitted together without mortar; some weigh over 300 tons. Every June 24th, the Inti Raymi, a ceremony in honor of the Sun, is celebrated here. You will continue to Qenqo, known for its underground chambers and passageways; Puka Pukara, a reddish-hued fortress; and finally Tambomachay, renowned for its aqueducts, canals, and waterfalls.
You will continue to Qenqo, known for its underground chambers and passageways; Puka Pukara, a reddish-hued fortress; and finally Tambomachay, renowned for its aqueducts, canals, and waterfalls. On the way back, you’ll stop at the Cristo Blanco (a statue of Jesus) to enjoy panoramic views of Cusco and the Andean landscape. The statue was a gift from the Palestinian community in 1945; it’s made of white stone and stands over 8 meters (26 ft) tall. It’s a popular spot for tourists and locals, especially at sunset, because of its outstanding views.
