Half-Day City Tour Cusco
Discover the rich history and cultural treasures of Cusco on this half-day city tour. Visit iconic Inca and colonial landmarks, including Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, Tambomachay, and the Qoricancha Temple of the Sun. For those who wish to delve deeper, an optional visit to the majestic Cusco Cathedral is available. This tour is perfect for those wanting to explore Cusco’s heritage in a compact timeframe.
Summary
The tour begins with a pick-up in Cusco, offering an engaging introduction to the city’s Inca and colonial history. The first stop is Sacsayhuaman, an impressive Inca fortress with massive stone walls and panoramic views. Next is Qenqo, a ceremonial site with carved rock formations and underground passages, followed by Puca Pucara, a military outpost, and Tambomachay, the “Water Temple” known for its aqueducts and waterfalls.
The tour continues to Qoricancha, the Inca Temple of the Sun, showcasing advanced stonework and its blend with the colonial Convent of Santo Domingo. An optional visit to Cusco Cathedral offers insight into its religious art and history. The tour concludes with a drop-off at your hotel or a central location in Cusco.
Complete Itinerary
The tour begins with a convenient pick-up from your hotel or a central meeting point in Cusco at 07:30 or 13:00. As we explore through this vibrant city, your guide will provide an engaging introduction to Cusco’s fascinating history as the capital of the Inca Empire and its transformation during colonial times.
Our first stop is at Sacsayhuaman, an impressive Inca fortress overlooking Cusco. Known for its massive stone walls, some weighing over 100 tons, Sacsayhuaman showcases the engineering genius of the Incas. Stroll through its expansive grounds, admire the panoramic views of Cusco, and learn about its role in Inca ceremonies and battles.
A short drive takes us to Qenqo, an enigmatic archaeological site believed to have been a ceremonial center. Explore its carved rock formations, mysterious underground passages, and an altar thought to have been used for sacrifices and mummification rituals. Your guide will uncover the spiritual significance of this site.
Our journey continues to Puca Pucara, a small fortress that likely served as a military outpost and checkpoint for travelers entering Cusco. Its name, meaning “Red Fortress,” comes from the reddish hue of its stones during sunset. Enjoy the serene surroundings and learn about its strategic importance in Inca times.
Next is Tambomachay, often referred to as the Inca “Baths” or Water Temple. This site is known for its aqueducts, canals, and waterfalls, which continue to flow with crystal-clear water. Tambomachay is thought to have been a place of worship for water and a royal retreat for Inca leaders.
The final stop is at Qoricancha, once the most important temple in the Inca Empire, dedicated to Inti, the Sun God. Though much of it was destroyed during the Spanish conquest, remnants of its masterful stonework remain, blending seamlessly with the colonial Convent of Santo Domingo built atop it. Your guide will explain the temple’s significance and its architectural brilliance.
For those who opt for it, the tour includes a visit to the majestic Cusco Cathedral in the Plaza de Armas. This colonial masterpiece houses an incredible collection of religious art, intricate woodwork, and relics, blending Catholic traditions with indigenous influences.
After a day immersed in history and culture, the tour concludes with a drop-off at your hotel or a central location in Cusco.
What does this tour include?
Included
- Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish).
- Comfortable transportation to all sites.
Not Included
- Entry tickets to Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay
- Entry fee for Qoricancha and the Cathedral (paid separately).
- Personal expenses or souvenirs.
- Tips for the guide and driver (optional).
Discover Our Prices
At our agency, tour prices are calculated per person in double or matrimonial room – Minimum 02 People, and vary depending on the category and type of experience you choose. We aim to offer you flexible and affordable options tailored to your travel needs and preferences.
We also offer special discounts for large groups, families, and seasonal promotions.
Private Price
Group Price
To book, contact us with the tour, dates, and number of people. We will confirm and send the details along with the payment link via Wise or credit card.
- Deposit 40% of the total amount.
- Remaining 60% in cash before the start of the tour in Cusco or, if preferred, up to 10 days prior by credit card. Learn more
