City Tour Cusco
The City Tour Cusco is one of the must-have experiences for those visiting the historic capital of Peru. This half-day tour allows you to explore the most representative temples, plazas, and archaeological sites of the city, reflecting the grandeur of the Inca Empire and the Spanish colonial influence.
The tour is designed for those who want a complete introduction to Cusco before exploring other destinations such as the Sacred Valley or Machu Picchu. It is an ideal option for the first day, as the pace of the tour helps with acclimatization to the altitude. Learn more. ➔
The City Tour Cusco usually starts at the Plaza de Armas, visiting the most emblematic sites within the city and continuing with the Inca ruins in the surroundings. It is recommended to wear comfortable clothing, sun protection, and carry water to stay hydrated during the tour.
What to See on the City Tour Cusco?
This tour includes some of the most important places in the city and its surroundings.
Cusco Cathedral: Located in the Plaza de Armas, this cathedral is a jewel of colonial architecture. Its construction took over a century and houses impressive silver altars, paintings from the Cusco School, and unique religious sculptures.
Qorikancha Temple: Also known as the Temple of the Sun, it was one of the most sacred places of the Inca Empire. During its peak, its walls were covered with gold sheets, reflecting the importance of sun worship. With the arrival of the Spanish, the Santo Domingo Convent was built over its foundations.
Sacsayhuamán: A massive Inca fortress built with enormous stones fitted together with astonishing precision. It is believed to have been an important ceremonial and military center. From here, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Cusco.
Qenqo: A mysterious sanctuary with channels, passageways, and an altar carved in stone, possibly used for Inca religious ceremonies.
Puka Pukara: Its name means “Red Fortress,” and it is believed to have been a control and shelter point for travelers arriving in Cusco.
Tambomachay: Known as the “Inca Bath,” this site is a complex of aqueducts and ceremonial fountains dedicated to water worship.
City Tour Itinerary
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours and follows this itinerary:
– Pick-up from the hotel in Cusco.
– Visit to Cusco Cathedral and a tour of the Plaza de Armas.
– Entry to the Qorikancha Temple, where you will learn about its Inca and colonial history.
– Transfer by tourist transport to Sacsayhuamán, with time to explore its impressive architecture.
– Visits to Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay, with explanations from an expert guide.
– Return to Cusco and end of the tour.
The City Tour Cusco provides an excellent introduction to the city’s history and is ideal for those who want to explore more in the following days.
Price and Tickets
The cost of the City Tour Cusco depends on the travel agency you book with and the services included.
– Basic Tour (only transport and guide): From S/ 50 – S/ 70.
– Tour with included entrance tickets: From S/ 150 – S/ 200, depending on the agency.
To enter the archaeological sites, the Cusco Tourist Ticket is required, with the following options:
– Partial Ticket (Circuit 1): S/ 70 – Includes Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay.
– General Ticket: S/ 130 – Valid for 10 days and includes more sites in Cusco and the Sacred Valley.
The entrance to the Cathedral and Qorikancha has an additional cost of approximately S/ 25 – S/ 40 each.
Tips and Recommendations
– Acclimatization: Cusco is at 3,400 m a.s.l., so it is recommended to take a day to adapt before the tour.
– Clothing: Wear comfortable footwear and layered clothing, as the weather changes throughout the day.
– Hydration: Carry water and, if needed, coca leaves for altitude sickness.
– Sun Protection: Use sunscreen and sunglasses to protect yourself from radiation.
– Cash: Some entrance fees and purchases must be made in cash.
Best Time to Take the Tour
The City Tour Cusco can be taken year-round, but the best time is during the dry season (May – October), when there is less rain and the roads are in better condition.
If you visit during the rainy season (November – April), it is advisable to bring a waterproof poncho. Although there is a higher chance of rain, the landscapes are greener and there are fewer tourists.
No matter the time of year you travel, the City Tour Cusco is an unforgettable experience that will connect you with the history and greatness of the Incas.
