Cusco City Tour – Discover Sacsayhuamán, Qoricancha, Tambomachay, Qenqo & Puca Pucara (Half Day)
Explore Cusco’s culture and history on a half-day city tour. Visit Sacsayhuamán, Qoricancha, Tambomachay, Qenqo, and Puca Pucara.
From
US$ 15.00
per person
City Tour Cusco – Half Day
- Duration: 4 hours approx.
- Start: Cusco
- Maximum altitude: 3,800 m.a.s.l.
- Difficulty level: Easy
- Guide language: Spanish / English
Description
The City Tour Cusco is an ideal experience for those seeking to connect with the historical and cultural essence of the city. Visit sacred temples, impressive fortresses, and ceremonial spaces that marked the history of one of the most influential civilizations in America. Through this tour, you will discover why Cusco was the spiritual and political center of the Tahuantinsuyo, and how its legacy remains alive in its architecture, traditions, and people.
Highlighted Sites of the Tour
- Qoricancha – Temple of the Sun: It was formerly the most sacred temple of the Inca world, dedicated to the Sun god. Today it houses the Convent of Santo Domingo, a symbol of the fusion between Andean culture and Spanish colonization. It exhibits Inca artifacts such as ceramics, textiles, stone carvings, and impressive colonial architecture.
- Sacsayhuamán – Inca Fortress: Located 2 km from the Plaza de Armas and at 3,700 m.a.s.l., this majestic construction made with enormous stone blocks fitted with precision continues to amaze the world. From here you get one of the most spectacular views of Cusco.
- Qenqo – Ceremonial Center: Known as the "Inca labyrinth," this site features underground galleries, zigzag channels, and sacrifice altars. It is believed to have been a center of worship to the gods and astronomical observation.
- Puka Pukara – Red Fortress: Small Inca military fortress strategically located to protect access to Cusco. Its name comes from the reddish color of its walls at sunset.
- Tambomachay – Inca Baths: A complex of aqueducts, channels, and waterfalls used for water-related rituals. It is surrounded by an impressive natural environment and reflects the hydraulic wisdom of the Incas.
Why Choose This Experience?
- Visit five of the most emblematic sites of Cusco in just half a day.
- Perfect for a first contact with the city and its history.
- Learn about Inca cosmovision, colonization, and Andean spirituality.
Detailed Itinerary
Itinerary
- Pick up from your accommodation
Our guide will pick you up from your hotel or Airbnb to begin the tour. They will provide a brief introduction before starting the visit to the historic sites.
- Qoricancha – Temple of the Sun
We will visit the main Inca temple dedicated to the Sun god. Be amazed by its Inca architecture fused with the colonial convent.
Note: Requires additional entrance fee (not included).
- Sacsayhuamán – Inca Fortress
Imposing construction of enormous stone blocks perfectly assembled. Offers one of the best panoramic views of Cusco.
Note: Included in the Tourist Ticket (not included in the tour).
- Qenqo – Ceremonial Center
Ancient sanctuary with ritual channels, underground galleries, and a ceremonial altar carved in rock.
Note: Included in the Tourist Ticket (not included in the tour).
- Puca Pucará – Red Fortress
Small Inca military complex used as a surveillance point. Appreciate its stone walls and terraces.
Note: Included in the Tourist Ticket (not included in the tour).
- Tambomachay – Inca Baths
Ceremonial center related to water. Its aqueducts still function and reflect Inca engineering.
Note: Included in the Tourist Ticket (not included in the tour).
- Return to accommodation
We end the tour with the transfer back to your lodging, concluding a day full of history and culture.
Not Included
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, or other meals not specified in the itinerary.
- Entrance fees to attractions:
- Qoricancha Entrance Ticket: S/ 20 per person.
- Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTC):
- General: S/ 130 (valid for 10 days for multiple sites).
- Partial Circuit I (Saqsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, Tambomachay): S/ 70 (valid for 1 day).
- Tips for the guide and driver (optional).
- Personal expenses.
*Entrance prices are for reference and may vary. It is recommended to purchase the appropriate Tourist Ticket according to the sites you plan to visit.
What's Included / Not Included
Services Included in Your Experience
- 1. Transfer from Cusco's historic center: Due to the narrow streets of the city, on some occasions, the guide will suggest a nearby point for group pick-up.
- 2. Tourist Transportation: Comfortable and safe transportation service for your entire experience.
- 3. Professional Guide: Accompaniment of an experienced guide who will provide valuable information throughout the experience.
- 4. Return to Plaza Regocijo: The tour ends in the historic center of Cusco.
Services Not Included
- 1. Transfer from hotels outside the city of Cusco: On private tours, ask about extra costs for pick-up from Sacred Valley or other locations.
- 2. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, or other meals: Any meal not specified in the itinerary.
- 3. Entrance fees to attractions: Qoricancha entrance ticket: 20 soles.
- 4. Tourist ticket: General tourist ticket 130 soles (valid for 10 days) and partial ticket 70 soles (valid for 2 days).
- 5. Beverages: Beverages not included during the tour.
- 6. Tips for the guide: Optional, according to your satisfaction with the service.
What to Bring on the Tour
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Dietary restrictions (veg/vegan)
If you follow a special diet, please let us know. This way we can ensure suitable options are available for you during the tour.
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Warm clothing
Temperatures vary greatly at altitude. Bring several layers to adapt to daytime and nighttime conditions.
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Sunglasses
UV radiation is stronger at altitude. Good sunglasses protect your eyes and make the trip more comfortable.
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Sunscreen
Mountain sun is strong, even on cloudy days. Wearing sunscreen prevents burns and protects your skin throughout the tour.
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Wool hat
Cold can be intense, especially mornings and evenings. A wool hat helps retain body heat.
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Wool gloves
Hands get cold quickly at altitude. Wool gloves provide the warmth needed for a comfortable trip.
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Appropriate footwear
Terrain can be uneven and rocky. Wear comfortable shoes with good traction to avoid slips and improve stability.
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Snack
Physical effort at altitude requires extra energy. Carrying a snack helps you stay active and avoid fatigue during the tour.
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Water
Staying hydrated is essential to avoid altitude sickness. Bring a reusable bottle to refill along the way.
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Personal documents
Some entrances require ID. Carry your ID or passport for access and for registration in case of emergency.
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Small backpack
A compact backpack lets you carry essentials comfortably. Ideal for water, snacks and personal items without excess weight.
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Cash (Peruvian Soles)
Some places don’t accept cards. Carrying Soles makes it easier to buy souvenirs, snacks or additional services.
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Camera
Landscapes are spectacular and worth capturing. A camera lets you take amazing memories and share your experience.
Tour Description
Discover the cultural and historical richness of the capital of the ancient Inca Empire with the Cusco City Tour. This half-day tour invites you to explore iconic sites such as the majestic Qoricancha, ancestral temples, colonial streets, and museums filled with art and tradition. Ideal for those seeking a deep and enriching introduction to the city, combining history, architecture, and living culture in a single tour. A perfect experience for lovers of culture, photography, and Andean heritage
Things you should know about this tour
Cusco is one of the regions that possesses important tourist attractions
Cusco is one of the regions with important tourist attractions. In this video, we show you places that might interest you for your next trip.
Booking Form
Fill in the details to book your experience
- TOUR RECOMMENDATIONS
- Comfortable Clothing: Light layered clothing. The climate in Cusco is temperate during the day but can get cool. Bring a light jacket or sweater.
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes. Trekking boots are not required, but footwear with non-slip soles for irregular surfaces is recommended.
- Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses with UV protection, hat or cap. Solar radiation is intense in Cusco.
- Cash: Bring soles to purchase the Tourist Ticket (S/70 partial, S/130 complete approx.), entrance to Qoricancha (S/15), voluntary tips, and souvenirs.
- Hydration: Small water bottle. Staying hydrated is important at altitude.
- Backpack or Bag: Small backpack or bag to carry water, camera, documents, and personal items.
- Camera or Cell Phone: Essential to capture Sacsayhuamán, Qoricancha, panoramic views of Cusco, and the archaeological sites. Bring extra battery.
- Medications: If you are sensitive to altitude, bring altitude sickness pills (Sorojchi pills). Also personal medications.
- Weather: Temperate temperatures (10-20°C) in Cusco. Can be sunny with wind at higher elevations. Bring layered clothing.
- Documents: Original ID or Passport (mandatory to access archaeological sites with Tourist Ticket) and cash in soles.
- Acclimatization: If it's your first day in Cusco, consider taking the tour in the afternoon. Drinking coca tea and avoiding excessive efforts helps with altitude.
- Tourist Ticket: Can be purchased at the first site (Qoricancha is not included) or previously at authorized offices. Necessary to enter 4 of the 5 sites.
- Schedules: Choose morning schedule for better photographs with natural light, or afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the sunset from Sacsayhuamán.
- Time at each site: Listen carefully to the guide to take advantage of the history and culture. Respect the times established at each stop.
- Heritage Respect: Do not touch or climb on archaeological walls. They are cultural heritage that must be preserved for future generations.
- Photography: Allowed at all sites. Ideal for architecture photography, urban landscapes, and panoramic views of Cusco.
- FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- Is it necessary to have prior experience or good physical condition? It is not necessary. The City Tour Cusco has an easy difficulty level, with short walks at each archaeological site. It is accessible for all types of travelers, including seniors and families with children. It is only recommended to be acclimatized to the altitude of Cusco (3,400 m.a.s.l.).
- What does this tour include? It includes tourist transportation from/to your hotel in Cusco, certified multilingual professional guide (Spanish and English), pick-up and transfer to all archaeological sites included in the tour. It does not include the Tourist Ticket necessary to enter the sites.
- What services are NOT included? The Tourist Ticket (necessary to enter Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay), entrance to Qoricancha (S/15 approx.), voluntary tips for guide and driver, beverages, food, or additional personal expenses are not included.
- How long does the tour last and what is the maximum altitude? The tour lasts half a day, approximately 4 hours. The maximum altitude is 3,800 m.a.s.l. at the archaeological sites near Cusco such as Sacsayhuamán. There are schedule options in the morning (9:00 a.m. approx.) or afternoon (1:00 p.m. approx.).
- How many days do I need to be in Cusco before the tour? It is recommended to be in Cusco at least 1 day before to acclimatize to the city's altitude (3,400 m.a.s.l.). Taking things easy on the first day, hydrating well, and drinking coca tea helps with adaptation.
- What places will we visit during the tour? You will visit the five most emblematic sites of Cusco: Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun), the fortress of Sacsayhuamán with its impressive stone blocks and panoramic views, Qenqo (ceremonial center with underground galleries), Puka Pukara (red military fortress), and Tambomachay (Inca baths with hydraulic systems). It is a perfect experience to learn about Inca and colonial history in a few hours.
- IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS BEFORE BOOKING
- Total duration: Half day (approximately 4 hours).
- Departure: Available schedules in the morning (9:00 a.m. approx.) or afternoon (1:00 p.m. approx.) with pick-up from your hotel in Cusco.
- Maximum altitude: 3,800 m.a.s.l. (Sacsayhuamán and nearby archaeological sites).
- Difficulty level: Easy (mostly transport route with short walks).
- Documentation: It is mandatory to carry original ID or Passport.
- Acclimatization: Recommended to stay at least 1 day in Cusco to adapt to the altitude before the tour.
- Guide language: Multilingual (Spanish and English subject to availability).
- Service type: Group or private with comfortable tourist transportation.
- Entrance fees: Partial or complete Tourist Ticket required (not included). Check availability and rates.
- Restrictions: Tour accessible for most travelers. Some sites have stairs and irregular surfaces.
- Weather: Temperate climate in Cusco (10-20°C). Can be cool at higher elevations. Bring light layered clothing.
- Attire: Comfortable clothing, hat, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes.
- Experience: Ideal for those seeking to learn about Inca and colonial history of Cusco in a short time.
- End time: Return to hotel or central point in Cusco at the end of the tour.
Cusco is one of the regions with important tourist attractions. In this video, we show you places that might interest you for your next trip.
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Tour rates and options
This tour is offered in shared and private service depending on the size of your group.
"Check 24 hours before to confirm availability and avoid setbacks".
Schedule office appointment
Urb. Dolorespata, Jr. Paititi F 3ª 270, Santiago-Cusco
1 WHY CHOOSE THIS EXPERIENCE?
- ● Breathtaking panoramic view of the Sacred Valley
- ● No prior experience required
- ● Safe activity: favorable topography and certified equipment
- ● An exciting and different experience
- ● Perfect for adventure, nature and unforgettable memories in Cusco
- ● Horseback or trekking options
- ● Daily departures all year round
- ● Oxygen support and first-aid kit
2 WHY TRAVEL WITH US?
- ● We are tour operators in Cusco
- ● Professional and responsible work
- ● 100% tourist vehicles
- ● Safety for our visitors
- ● Your trip will be the best experience
- ● 100% responsible
- ● Care for the environment
- ● Commitment to service quality
Tour Gallery
Splendor of Qoricancha (Sun Temple)
This was the most important temple of the Inca Empire, dedicated to the Sun God. The Convent of Santo Domingo was built over its walls, blending Inca and Colonial architecture.
Tambomachay: Water Worship Center
Known as the "Inca Baths" or Water Temple. This site stands out for its fine masonry, channels, and continually flowing water cascades, symbolizing Inca engineering.
Mysticism at the Temple of Q'enqo
nca archaeological site known for its large carved rock outcrop and semi-circular amphitheater. It was a ceremonial center dedicated to Pachamama (Mother Earth) and astronomical worship.
Majesty of Sacsayhuamán Fortress
Impressive fortress built with colossal limestone blocks. Its three cyclopean zigzag walls fit perfectly without mortar, showcasing advanced and mysterious Inca engineering.
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What our travelers say
Verified reviews from real travelers. Our reputation is backed by thousands of authentic experiences.
Excellent guide and unforgettable experience
Cristian Flores was an exceptional guide who shared extensive knowledge about the mountain and local culture. His professionalism and friendliness made the experience truly unforgettable. I highly recommend this tour for future visitors and will definitely book his services again on my next trip to Cusco.
Rainbow Mountain ATV Adventure
Everything was perfectly organized from the schedule to transportation. Our guide Jimy was excellent throughout the day. I highly recommend this amazing ATV experience - it was both thrilling and safe. The landscapes are simply breathtaking and worth every minute of the journey.
Spectacular tour with knowledgeable guide
The Rainbow Mountain tour was spectacular. José José, our guide, was extremely knowledgeable about the area and explained everything about the geology and local culture. The team was attentive at all times and transportation was comfortable. Thanks also to my group members who made the experience even more enjoyable.
Dreamlike nature worth every step
An unforgettable experience where the effort is totally worth it. The ascent can be challenging but our guide motivated and helped us at all times. The views are simply stunning and photos don't do it justice. I recommend bringing warm clothes and good shoes.
Unforgettable Quad adventure
The excursion to Vinikunka Mountain was spectacular. Excellent assistance and detailed explanations from guide José José and his assistant Wilfredo. The quads were in perfect condition and safety instructions were clear. We enjoyed every moment from sunrise to return.
SPECTACULAR - Exceeded expectations
Thanks to the quads I was able to enjoy the tour without problems. The guide was very attentive and knowledgeable about the area. What I appreciated most was the punctuality and organization of the tour. They provided all facilities and the team was attentive at all times.
Wonderful experience with the best guide
Guide Jose José proved to be a great person and exceptional professional. From the first moment he cared about our well-being and made us feel safe throughout the tour. His knowledge about local culture and geology greatly enriched the experience.
Beautiful experience with excellent service
Great experience from start to finish. Guide Jose Jose was very friendly and professional, explaining every detail of the tour. What I valued most was his patience when some of us needed to go slower due to altitude. The agency team was attentive at all times.
THE BEST EXPERIENCE on our Peru trip
The entire team was friendly and professional from start to finish. Hotel pickup was punctual, transportation comfortable and safe. Our guide demonstrated extensive knowledge and passion for his work. I highly recommend this company for their seriousness and organization.
Exceptional service
Excellent attention from booking to the end of the tour. The guide was very professional and knowledgeable. Highly recommended for everyone visiting Cusco.
Amazing experience
One of the best tourist experiences I have had. Everything was perfectly organized and the team was very attentive at every moment.
Highly recommended
The tour exceeded our expectations. Friendly and professional guides. We would return without hesitation. Transportation was comfortable and punctual.
Excellent organization
From the first contact to the end everything was perfect. The guide showed great knowledge and passion for his work. Very satisfied with the service.
Wonderful adventure
An unforgettable experience. The landscape is spectacular and the service is first class. Thank you for making our trip something special.
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Cusco City Tour – Discover Sacsayhuamán, Qoricancha, Tambomachay, Qenqo & Puca Pucara (Half Day)
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