City Tour Cusco
City Tour Cusco
Duration
Full day
Difficulty
Easy
Group
from 2 to 8 people
Recommended Age
All ages
Cusco is not just a city; it is a living masterpiece where history, culture, and tradition converge. Every cobblestone street whispers the stories of ancient civilizations, and every plaza reveals a new chapter of Peru’s rich heritage. With GREATOURS PERU, you will step beyond the ordinary and immerse yourself in an unforgettable exploration of Cusco’s treasures, blending colonial charm with the enduring spirit of the Inca Empire.
This half-day experience takes you through Cusco’s most iconic landmarks, unveiling centuries of history and culture. From sacred Inca temples to majestic colonial churches, you will witness how two worlds came together to create one of the most fascinating cities in South America. With our carefully designed itinerary, you will discover the essence of Cusco in a single afternoon—perfect for your first day in the city and an ideal introduction to its wonders.
Itinerary
What you will do and explore with us
- 13:30 hrs – Pick-up from your hotel
Our professional guide will greet you in the lobby of your hotel and provide a brief introduction to the fascinating journey ahead. As we drive through the narrow, cobblestone streets of Cusco, you will begin to immerse yourself in the charm of the city, surrounded by colonial facades, vibrant markets, and glimpses of Inca stonework that whisper stories of the past. - 14:00 hrs – Cathedral of Cusco
We begin our exploration at the heart of Cusco, the iconic Plaza de Armas. Dominating the square is the majestic Cathedral of Cusco, an architectural masterpiece built over the foundations of the ancient palace of Viracocha Inca. Inside, you will marvel at its gilded altars, intricately carved wooden choir stalls, and an impressive collection of religious paintings from the renowned Cusco School of Art, blending European techniques with Andean symbolism. The cathedral’s chapels, silverwork, and sacred relics reveal a deep history of faith, art, and cultural fusion. - 14:40 hrs – Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun)
Our journey continues to the Qoricancha, the most important and revered temple of the Inca Empire. Once covered in sheets of pure gold, this temple was dedicated to Inti, the Sun God, and served as the spiritual and astronomical center of the empire. Here, you will witness the extraordinary precision of Inca stone masonry, seamlessly incorporated into the colonial structure of the Santo Domingo Convent. The contrast between the original Inca walls and the Spanish construction above them tells the powerful story of conquest, adaptation, and cultural resilience. - 15:30 hrs – Sacsayhuamán
A short drive uphill brings us to Sacsayhuamán, an awe-inspiring ceremonial fortress overlooking Cusco. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its massive zigzagging stone walls, each block perfectly fitted without the use of mortar. Some stones weigh over 100 tons, yet their placement is so precise that not even a sheet of paper can fit between them. Here, you will learn about the site’s ceremonial importance, its role in Inca military strategy, and its significance during the Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun). The panoramic view of Cusco from this vantage point is simply breathtaking. - 16:10 hrs – Qenqo
We proceed to Qenqo, an enigmatic archaeological site believed to have served as a ceremonial center dedicated to Pachamama, or Mother Earth. The site is characterized by intricate carvings on stone, underground galleries, and altars that were likely used for rituals, offerings, and possibly mummification ceremonies. The atmosphere here is one of mystery, inviting you to imagine the sacred practices that once took place in these carved labyrinths. - 16:40 hrs – Puka Pukara
Next, we visit Puka Pukara, which means “Red Fortress” in Quechua, a name derived from the reddish hue of its stone walls at sunset. This strategically located complex functioned as a military outpost and a checkpoint controlling access to the imperial city. From here, you will enjoy expansive views of the surrounding valleys and hills, giving you a sense of how the Incas maintained vigilance over their lands. - 17:00 hrs – Tambomachay
Our final stop is Tambomachay, often referred to as the “Bath of the Inca.” This site is celebrated for its finely constructed aqueducts, canals, and cascading fountains, which still flow with crystal-clear water to this day. Believed to have been a place of ritual purification and water worship, Tambomachay reflects the Inca’s deep spiritual connection to nature and their advanced hydraulic engineering. - 17:30 hrs – Return to Cusco
After a day filled with history, culture, and awe-inspiring architecture, we make our way back to Cusco. Your guide will drop you off at your hotel, leaving you with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the legacy of the Inca civilization.
Includes
- Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish).
- Tourist transportation.
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off (within Cusco city center).
Not Included
- Entrance tickets (Tourist Ticket for archaeological sites and Cathedral entry).
- Meals and beverages.
- Personal expenses.
- Tips.
Recommendations
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking.
- Bring a light jacket or sweater; Cusco’s afternoons can be cool.
- Use sunscreen and sunglasses.
- Carry a bottle of water.
- Bring some cash for entrance fees and souvenirs.
Why travel with GreaTours Perú?
Every day, our specialists create personalized experiences tailored to each traveler’s profile, desires, and budget. These passionate professionals create experiences that are delivered on-site through a local network of concierges and privileged contacts. These tailor-made trips are flexible and include a wide range of premium services (VIP lounges, 24/7 assistance, travel diary, app, mobile Wi-Fi, table reservations, etc.).
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City Tour Cusco
Full day