City Tour - Cusco
Overview
City tour + 4 archaeological sites At the agreed-upon time, we will pick up passengers from their respective hotels to begin our first visit: the Qoricancha, the legendary Temple of the Sun and the main ceremonial center of the Inca Empire. This temple, along with the Convent of Santo Domingo, presents a fascinating combination of Inca and colonial architecture.
Then, we will head to the heights of the city to visit the impressive archaeological complex of Sacsayhuaman, one of the greatest works of the Incas, where giant walls of megalithic stones are perfectly embedded, and from where the best views of the city of Cusco are appreciated. Later, we will visit Qenqo, an ancient place of ceremonies and sacrifices, followed by the Inca military post of Pucapucara (or “red stone”), which had exclusively military purposes.
It was the control point for entering Cusco and also served as a resting place. Finally, we will finish in Tambomachay, a center of worship and water cult, where the Incas asked the gods to bring the rains necessary for their crops to be fertile. Return to Cusco.
Enjoy a perfect introduction to the millenary history of the Inca Empire with our City Tour in Cusco, ideal to acclimatize and marvel at the main archaeological treasures of the city. This tour is available in two flexible schedules, adapted to your travel itinerary:
- Morning Shift: from 09:00 to 14:00
- Afternoon Shift: from 13:00 to 18:00
Pickup from your hotel – Tour start
We begin with pickup from your hotel in Cusco in a modern and safe tourist vehicle. Our professional guide will accompany you throughout the tour, providing detailed explanations of historical, archaeological, and cultural information.
Qoricancha – Temple of the Sun
We visit Qoricancha, the most important sacred site of the Inca Empire, where the god Inti (Sun) was worshipped. This temple was partially destroyed during the colonial period, and the Convent of Santo Domingo was built on its foundations, creating an extraordinary architectural fusion of Andean and European styles.
Sacsayhuamán – Ceremonial Fortress
We then ascend to the outskirts of the city to explore Sacsayhuamán, an imposing ceremonial fortress built with gigantic carved stone blocks. This site stands out not only for its architectural majesty but also for its panoramic views of the entire Cusco Valley.
Qenqo – Mystical Sanctuary
We continue to Qenqo, a ceremonial center excavated from living rock, used for religious rituals, mummification, and astronomical observations. Its underground passages and carved altars still preserve the mysticism of ancient times.
Pucapucara – The Red Fortress
We continue with a visit to Pucapucara, an Inca military construction that controlled access to the city. Its name comes from the reddish color of its stones at sunset. This site also served as a resting place for royal entourages and travelers.
Tambomachay – Inca Baths
We conclude with Tambomachay, a center of worship for water and agricultural cycles. Here you will see Inca fountains and aqueducts that still flow with millimeter precision, demonstrating the advanced hydraulic knowledge of the ancient Peruvians.
Return to Cusco
We conclude the tour with a comfortable return to Cusco's historic center, where we'll drop you off near the Plaza de Armas or at your hotel, depending on your preference.
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Round-trip transportation from your hotel
Authorized transportation equipped with comfortable seats, air conditioning, and panoramic windows. On-time pickup from hotels located in Cusco's historic center and return to the same or nearby location.
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Certified professional guide (bilingual Spanish/English)
Guided by an official guide with extensive knowledge of archaeology, history, and Andean worldview. Detailed explanations at each point of the tour and personalized attention.
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Guided tour of the main attractions of the City Tour
Full exploration of the five tourist attractions: Qoricancha, Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Pucapucara, and Tambomachay, with cultural, historical, and symbolic interpretation of each site.
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Permanent assistance throughout the tour
Our team is available before, during, and after the tour to assist you with any questions or operational or medical needs.
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Complete first aid kit
Each transport unit has a first aid kit equipped with basic supplies, portable oxygen, pain relievers, rehydration salts, and more. We also have protocols for minor emergencies.
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Pre-arrangement of the chosen shift (morning or afternoon)
Flexibility to choose the most convenient time based on your schedule:
- Morning shift: 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
- Afternoon shift: 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Not Included
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Partial Tourist Ticket (BTG) – S/. 70.00 per person
This ticket is required for entry to Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Pucapucara, and Tambomachay. Purchase the same day of the tour or in advance at authorized locations or online. Not valid for Qoricancha.
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Qoricancha Entrance Fee – S/. 20.00 per person (approx.)
Admission to the Temple of the Sun (Qoricancha) has an additional cost and is payable directly at the ticket office. Rates are subject to change depending on season or nationality.
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Food and Drinks
The tour does not include breakfast, lunch, or snacks. We recommend eating a light breakfast before the tour begins and bringing a personal bottle of water.
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Travel or Personal Medical Insurance
It is recommended to have valid travel insurance that covers medical care, cancellations, or loss of belongings.
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Personal Expenses and Tips
Any additional expenses such as purchases, souvenirs, snacks, or voluntary tips for the guide or driver are not included.
To enjoy a comfortable and safe experience during this half-day cultural tour, we suggest you bring the following:
- Warm clothing in layers: Cusco has temperature variations, especially in the afternoon. Bring a light polo shirt, a fleece or sweater, and a windproof or waterproof jacket.
- Sun cap or hat: Important for protection during outdoor archaeological visits.
- UV-protected sunglasses: Especially necessary due to the intensity of the sun's rays at altitude.
- Sunscreen and lip balm: To avoid burns or dryness from sun exposure and the dry climate.
- Comfortable sneakers or hiking shoes: The paths may be cobbled or uneven; Avoid flat or platform shoes.
- Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated throughout the tour.
- Light snacks (cereal bars, dried fruit, Coca-Cola candies): Useful for maintaining energy, especially if you're taking the tour in the morning.
- Camera or cell phone with a good battery: To capture the best moments of the tour.
- Cash (in soles): To purchase tickets not included in the tour, souvenirs, or snacks. It is recommended to carry small bills.
- ID or passport: Required for entry to some archaeological sites.
- Toilet paper or tissues: Useful for public restrooms along the route.
- Antibacterial gel or alcohol spray: For proper hand hygiene during the tour.
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Acclimatize before the tour
If you have just arrived in Cusco, it is recommended to take at least half a day of rest before the City Tour. This will help you adapt to the altitude (3,399 msnm) and avoid altitude sickness or "soroche."
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Hydrate constantly
The dry climate and altitude can cause dehydration. Always carry a water bottle with you and take small sips throughout the tour.
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Avoid heavy meals before the tour
Especially if you are working the morning shift. Opt for a light breakfast to avoid discomfort during the journey.
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Dress in layers and wear comfortable clothing
The weather in Cusco can change throughout the day. Dress in layers to adjust to the temperature, and be sure to wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven surfaces.
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Bring cash in local currency (soles)
Some tourist attractions do not accept credit cards, and it is important to have cash on hand for entrance fees, tips, or personal purchases.
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Consult your guide if you have any questions.
Our certified guide will be available to answer any historical, logistical, or medical questions. Don't hesitate to ask for assistance if you feel tired or affected by the altitude.
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Protect your skin and eyes from the sun
Even if the day is cloudy, UV rays at altitude are more intense. Wear sunscreen, UV-protective sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat or cap.
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Respect the rules of archaeological sites
Avoid climbing unauthorized structures, touching sacred walls, or extracting natural elements. Preserving cultural heritage is everyone's responsibility.
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Please have your personal documents ready
You may be asked for your passport or ID at some checkpoints, especially when purchasing tickets.
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Please arrive on time for pickup
We recommend being ready at least 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time, as delays can affect the flow of the tour for the entire group.
Pickup is from your hotel in Cusco's historic center, either for the morning shift (9:00 a.m.) or afternoon shift (1:00 p.m.). If you're staying outside the center, a meeting point will be arranged.
The approximate duration is 5 hours, depending on the shift you choose:
- Morning Shift: 09:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
- Afternoon Shift: 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
It’s not mandatory. You can buy the Partial Tourist Ticket (S/.70) and the Qoricancha entrance (S/.20) on the same day of the tour. However, if you'd prefer to have everything ready beforehand, we can help you arrange it.
Yes, the tour runs all year round, even during the rainy season. We recommend bringing a waterproof jacket and protection for your electronic devices.
In general, the signal is intermittent at the archaeological sites outside the city. We recommend informing your contacts in advance that you'll be offline for a few hours.
No, meals are not included in the City Tour. You may bring snacks or plan to eat before or after the tour, depending on your selected shift.
Yes, this tour requires low physical effort and is suitable for all ages. However, people with respiratory conditions or limited mobility should take precautions.
Price from$ 15.00 USDper person
City Tour Travel Details
Tour Type: | Small Group Tour | |
Duration: | Half Day | |
Activities: | Classic Tour | |
Group Size: | Up to 16 | |
Difficulty: | Easy | |
Accommodation: | No include | |
Language: | English, Spanish | |
Altitude Tour: | 1,500 mt / 4,920 ft |
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