Guided Cusco City Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore the historic Sacsayhuamán fortress
- Visit the ancient Qorikancha Temple
- Discover the Cathedral of Cusco
- Wander through the San Blas neighborhood
- Experience the vibrant San Blas Market
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Transportation to all listed sites
- Entrance fees to all attractions
- Meals and beverages
Itinerary
Right at the heart of the historic center lies the so-called Temple of the Sun, the principal worship center of the Inca culture. Here, we’ll have some time to explore the site as well as the current catholic church built on top of its settlements.
Following the itinerary, the Sacsayhuaman fortress is our next stop. The impressive megalithic structure has withstood centuries of earthquakes and if it wasn’t because of the damages caused during the colonization process, the site could have been even more outstanding than what it already is.
A few meters away from Sacsayhuaman lies another important ceremonial center to the Incas. The Qenqo archeological site was a ritual-based location where, according to historians, rituals and sacrifices took place.
Going further up the mountains, we’ll find an archeological site with a fortress-like appearance. It is believed that Puca Pucara served as a military and administrative center.
Tambomachay is one of the perfect examples of Inca hydraulic engineering. It is composed of irrigation channels and three water fountains that continue to provide water until the current date.
Important information
Know before you book
- The tour is conducted in English; ensure you are comfortable with the language.
- Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
- Photography is allowed at most sites; however, some locations may have restrictions.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for uneven terrain.
- Bring a light jacket as temperatures can vary throughout the day.
- Carry a bottle of water to stay hydrated during the tour.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Stroller Accessible
- Easy Public Transport
- Infants Required On Laps
- Infant Seats Available
Good to know
- Children under 5 years of age are free of charge as long as they do not occupy a seat.
- We can include infant seats under request (if paying the child's seat).
Traveler reviews
Fun and educational
The guide Alberto helped a lot in making the tours not only fun, but also very informative! We took great advantage!!
Excellent tour, very good guide
Very interesting tour. The highlight and Guia Alberto, who has a giant knowledge, sympathy and interest in teaching. He speaks Portuguese very well
Can improve...
We closed a 10-day package with Machu Picchu Travel and, according to the agency, the city tour in Cusco was a courtesy included in the route. The tour lasted about 2h30 walking through Plaza Regocijo, Plaza San Francisco and Mercado de San Pedro, with historical and cultural information presented by the guide. When we arrived at St. Peter's Market, I expected the guide to talk about local food and give time to explore the environment, but we ended up passing only by the chocolate store presented by him. After this tour, we participated in other tours (Qoricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo etc.), and the guides ended up repeating many of the same information already presented on the city tour of Cusco. I felt a lack of explanations on important points, such as the Stone of the 12 Angles, as well as a presentation of the typical and different fruits found at the St. Peter’s Market. Of all the tours in the package, this was the one I liked least. I believe that a free morning to explore the city on your own would have been much more profitable.
Wonderful Tour of Cusco and Surrounding archeological sites
This tour was an exceptional, highly informative half-day excursion of Cusco starting at Qoricancha (Santo Domingo Temple), and nearby archeological sites such as Sacsayhuaman, Q'enqo, and Tambomachay. We took a private tour for our family of four. Herbert, our guide was very knowledgeable and shared deep hitorical context about the Inca and colonial history. He was very friendly and always attentive to our needs.
Best Guide
Fernando is wonderful, we were in a very good Van!! I highly recommend. He explained everything about the places visited!