Cusco City Tour Half Day
Active
4h - 5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
The city of Cusco is full of history and impressive Inca monuments. On the Cusco city tour, your guide will take you on a step by step journey through the finest landmarks the city has to offer.
The tour includes the prominent historical sites of Sacsayhuamán, an astounding Inca fortress whos stonework is so impeccable. Q’enqo, a sacred Inca pilgrimage site, that once served as an astronomical observatory and mummification house, the Temple of the Sun or Qoricancha, which was the religious, geographical, and political center of Cusco during the period of the Incas.
Tambomachay Also known by the name "Bath of the Inca", it was apparently a place for worship water and rest the monarch of the empire and the inka fortress of Pukapukara located on the high area of Cusco.
The Cathedral of Cusco, It is the main temple of the city of Cusco, decorated with fine carved wood works and impressive altars and beautiful paintings.
The tour will culminate at the famous Plaza de Armas of Cusco.
Available options
City Tour - Private Service
Customized Private tour: Private Guided Tour<br/>Duration: 5 hours<br/>Transportation: Comfortable transport with reclining seats<br/>Pickup included
City Tour - Group tour
Semi Private group tour: Group between 10 to 12 people<br/>Duration: 5 hours<br/>Transportation: Comfortable transport with reclining seats<br/>Tour Guide: Profesional English and Spanish tour guide<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Pick-up from the hotel.
Transfer to the hotel at the end of the tour.
Tourist transport.
Official Tour Guide English and Spanish speaking.
Entrance tickets to all places to visit during the tour.
Detailed itinerary
1
The convent was built on the spectacular Qorikancha place of gold, the most important dedicated to the worship of the sun, whose walls were covered with sheets of gold. The convent stands on a foundation of polished stone structures, the most finely crafted in Cusco, the Inca Empire. Its gate is an excellent example of Renaissance and its unique tower, baroque, prominent on the tiled roofs of the city. Like all churches, it has an important collection of paintings of the Cusquenian School.
2
Stop 2
Imposing example of Inca military architecture, this fortress was built using large slabs of granite and dedicated to the safeguard of the city of Cusco from attacks by invaders from the east or Antis. Sacsayhuaman (in Quechua "satisfied falcon") is made up of three large terraces which overlap in a "zigzag" and flanked by enormous stone ramparts of up to 300 mt of length. Due to its proximity and elevation with respect to Cusco and the dimensions of the stones of up to 5 mt. High and 350 tons, this served as a quarry for certain structures in the colonial city of Cusco.
3
Pukapukara is a spiritual center built on a sole outcrop of limestone, with underground galleries and a semicircular amphitheater ritual center. Puca Pucara (in Quechua "Red Fortress") is a military construction composed of stairways, terraces and large walls, which are part of the defense system of the imperial capital. Both are adjacent parts to the archaeological circuit of Cusco.
4
Stop 4
Also known by the name "Bath of the Inca", it was apparently a place for worship water and rest the monarch of the empire. They excel in it, a system of aqueducts, canals and cascades carved in stone, designed to channel water flowing from a nearby spring. According to specialists, Tambomachay was also a real garden, full of ornamental profuse vegetation, the same that was maintained by an intricate system of canals.
5
Stop 5
Located 4 kilometres northeast of the city of Cusco, Q’enqo was a spiritual center of the Inca’s built on a singular outcrop of limestone. Its underground galleys and semicircular amphitheatre fulfilled a purely religious function, hosting ceremonies in honor of their major gods such as the sun, the moon, the mountains and the earth. Q’enqo is also home to the Intihuatana, an astronomical observatory used to calculate the position of the sun and to predict changes in the seasons.
6
Stop 6
The Main Plaza oc Cusco city
What's not included
tips or gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
2 reviews
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking and travel for all participants
A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
Use sneakers or light/tennis shoes
Raincoat (long poncho) during the rainy season
Sunscreen, brimmed hat for sunny days
Camera or camcorder and films.
Have on hand checks in small denominations and coins in soles or dollars.
About Cusco
Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, is a captivating blend of Indigenous and colonial influences. Known for its well-preserved archaeological sites, vibrant culture, and stunning Andean landscapes, it's a gateway to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. The city's rich history, combined with its lively arts scene and delicious cuisine, makes it a must-visit destination in South America.
Top Attractions
Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley is a stunning region filled with Inca ruins, traditional villages, and breathtaking landscapes. It's a must-visit for history and nature lovers.
Historical/Nature
Full day
PEN 10-50 (USD 2.50-12.50) depending on the site
Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is the iconic Inca citadel and one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. Its breathtaking views and rich history make it a must-see.
Historical/Adventure
Full day or overnight
PEN 152 (USD 38) for entrance, train tickets vary
Qorikancha
Qorikancha, or the Temple of the Sun, was the most important temple in the Inca Empire. It's a fascinating blend of Inca and colonial architecture.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
PEN 10 (USD 2.50)
Sacsayhuaman
Sacsayhuaman is a massive Inca fortress with impressive stone walls and panoramic views of Cusco. It's a testament to Inca engineering and military might.
Historical
1-2 hours
PEN 10 (USD 2.50)
San Pedro Market
San Pedro Market is a bustling market offering a variety of fresh produce, local crafts, and traditional foods. It's a great place to experience local life.
Cultural/Food
1-2 hours
Free to enter, prices vary for purchases
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cuy al Horno
Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish.
Main Course
Not vegetarian
Lomo Saltado
Stir-fried beef with onions, tomatoes, and fries.
Main Course
Can be made vegetarian
Aji de Gallina
Shredded chicken in a creamy, spicy sauce.
Main Course
Not vegetarian
Sopa de Quinoa
Quinoa soup, a nutritious and traditional dish.
Soup
Can be made vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking
Trekking
Mountain biking
Whitewater rafting
Visiting spas
Exploring parks
Enjoying local cafes
Visiting museums
Best Time to Visit
May to September
This is the dry season, offering the best weather for exploring the city and its archaeological sites. The skies are clear, and temperatures are mild.
5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F)
41°F to 68°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: Quechua, English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Peruvian Sol (PEN)
Time Zone
GMT-5
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe with common-sense precautions
Cusco is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be cautious with your belongings and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use reputable tour operators
- • Be cautious with street food
Getting there
By air
- Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport • 5 km (3 miles) from city center
By train
San Pedro Station
By bus
Cusco Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Shared taxis (colectivos) are a common and affordable way to get around Cusco. They follow specific routes and can be flagged down.
Taxis
Available • Apps: InDriver, Easy Taxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Historic Center
San Blas
San Cristobal
Day trips
Pisac
35 km (22 miles) from Cusco • Full day
Pisac is a charming town known for its vibrant market and impressive Inca ruins. It's a great day trip from Cusco.
Ollantaytambo
60 km (37 miles) from Cusco • Full day or overnight
Ollantaytambo is a picturesque town with well-preserved Inca ruins and a gateway to Machu Picchu. It's a must-visit for history and adventure lovers.
Tipon
25 km (16 miles) from Cusco • Half day
Tipon is a beautiful archaeological site with well-preserved Inca terraces and water channels. It's a peaceful and less crowded alternative to other Inca sites.
Festivals
Inti Raymi • June 24
Cusco Festival of Music and Dance • August
Pro tips
- Acclimatize to the altitude before engaging in strenuous activities
- Dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures
- Learn a few basic phrases in Spanish or Quechua to enhance your experience
- Visit the San Pedro Market early in the morning for the best selection and prices
- Book tickets and train tickets in advance for Machu Picchu and other popular attractions
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
