Half-Day Cusco City Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore the historic Plaza de Armas
- Visit the impressive Qorikancha Temple
- Discover the ancient Sacsayhuamán fortress
- Wander through the San Blas neighborhood
- Admire the Cathedral of Cusco
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Transportation in comfortable vehicle
- Meals and beverages
Itinerary
The tour can start in the morning at 9:00 am or in the afternoon at 1:00 pm – the start time is flexible to give you maximum comfort. We will pick you up from your hotel and begin exploring the center of Cusco. Cusco, also spelled Cuzco, is a city in southeastern Peru, known as the Historical Capital of Peru and former capital of the Inca Empire. You will discover the Plaza de Armas, the famous 12 Angled Stone, Loreto Street, and some of the most important streets and buildings in the city.
From the Plaza de Armas, you will walk with your guide to Koricancha (Qorikancha), the most important temple of the Inca Empire. Its name in Quechua means “Golden Courtyard”, because it was once richly decorated with gold. Here you will see the perfect Inca stonework and learn how this sacred place was used for ceremonies, astronomy, and worship of the Sun.
Next, you will drive in your private vehicle up to Sacsayhuaman, one of the most impressive Inca sites above Cusco. This huge fortress is famous for its enormous stone walls, built with perfectly fitted blocks, some weighing more than 100 tons. As you walk through the site, your guide will explain how the Incas built Sacsayhuaman and why it is considered one of the greatest examples of their engineering and architectural skill.
Then you visit Qenqo (also written Q’enko or Kenko), a fascinating ceremonial site just a few kilometers from Cusco. Its name comes from a Quechua word meaning “zigzag,” referring to the carved channels and winding shapes in the rock. Here you’ll walk among mysterious altars, tunnels, and carved stones that were used for important Inca rituals. Your guide will explain why Qenqo is considered a sacred place (huaca) and share the legends and stories connected to this unique site.
Next, you will drive to Puca Pucara, which in Quechua means “Red Fortress.” This small Inca site was likely used as a military outpost and checkpoint on the road to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. From here you can see beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Puca Pucara is usually visited together with nearby sites like Tambomachay and Qenqo, making it a perfect stop to complete your circuit of Inca ruins around Cusco.
Next, you visit Tambomachay, a peaceful Inca site famous for its crystal-clear water fountains and fine stonework. Often called the “Inca Baths”, it was likely used for water ceremonies and rest by Inca nobility. This is a perfect moment to enjoy the fresh mountain air, take photos, and keep acclimatizing for your upcoming trip to Machu Picchu.
Next, you stop at Cristo Blanco, the white statue of Christ that stands on a hill above Cusco. From this viewpoint you get breathtaking panoramic views of the whole city, with its red roofs, plazas, and surrounding mountains. It’s a perfect place to take photos, enjoy the fresh air, and see how Cusco stretches across the valley—especially beautiful in the late afternoon as the lights of the city start to come on.
Important information
Know before you book
- Tour operates in English; ensure you understand the language.
- Hotel pickup is available from central Cusco accommodations; inform the operator of your location.
- The tour involves walking on uneven surfaces; be prepared for some physical activity.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable 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.
Good to know
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Names of all travelers
Traveler reviews
Fantastic first day of a total of 6 days!
Fantastic experience with a very knowledgeable guide! Katia has spoken with enthusiasm and passion about the local Inca culture. We really enjoyed all the beautiful places and the delicious local food. This day tour gave us a good introduction to our 6-day tour in this area. From Cusco to Machu Picchu, to Humantay Lake and the Rainbow Mountains
Best Tour We’ve Ever Had In Peru
Our private tour was absolutely incredible! Our guide, Leo, was truly fantastic and kind and deeply knowledgeable. He made our day not just interesting but fun, lighthearted, and authentic. He even took the time to show us a few special sites and he displayed a level of care and commitment that was truly exceptional. I highly recommend him for anyone and everyone interested in an authentic and insightful experience. He pairs extensive Incan knowledge with incredible spiritual sensitivity and he is also a record-breaking climber too! 10 stars!
Inca Vacation
TreXperience provided a perfect tour of the Inca sites in and around Cusco. Their communication before the tour was exceptional, as were tour logistics during the tour. A perfect tour on an early day in Cusco to learn and understand the ways and culture of the Inca. We wish to especially acknowledge our guide, Roger Calsin. He provided a tour of exceptional value and set-up our enjoyable stay in Peru.
A perfect way to spend...
A perfect way to spend your first day in Cusco, and to understand the ways and culture of the Inka. Our guide, Roger Calsin, was of exceptional value. His knowledge and insight setup a wonderful time for us in Peru. The communication and logistics provided by the tour company were exceptional. We highly recommend this tour, tour company and guide when in Cusco!
Memorable Trip to Cusco and Machu Picchu
Rosmel was the reason we chose Trexperience. His diligence and prompt reply to my inquiries made me feel confident to book with the company. On the day of our arrival, our transfer to the hotel did not arrive on time. I texted him about the problem and he replied and assisted even though it was his day off. We booked a Private tour for 6d5n. Our guide - Rene was very instrumental in making our trip memorable. Not only is he very knowledgeable but he also cares about our well being. Constantly checking if we are breathing properly during our several hikes . Checking our O2 level and pulse rate and providing condor pee to inhale when needed. He is indeed a wonderful person and we are glad to have him as our guide. Our driver varies daily and they provided a safe drive and the car is spotless. Overall, you can’t go wrong booking with the company. We are very satisfied!!!!!!