Short Walks

CITY TOUR CUSCO + PISAC

Discover the essence of the Inca Empire on an unforgettable day. This full-day tour combines the best of the Cusco City Tour with

From

US$ 40.00

per person

4.9 +120
CITY TOUR CUSCO + PISAC

City Tour Cusco + Pisac – Full Day

  • Duration: 1 full day
  • Start: 8:00 AM
  • Guide language: Spanish / English
  • Difficulty level: Easy – Moderate

Description

History, culture, and landscapes

Explore the sacred vestiges surrounding Cusco and then head to the beautiful Sacred Valley to discover Pisac, one of the most outstanding archaeological centers in the region. This site is distinguished by its extensive agricultural terraces, ceremonial canals, and temples built on top of a mountain, offering an impressive panoramic view.

Additionally, you will have the opportunity to tour the traditional artisan market of Pisac, where you can purchase unique products made by local artisans.

This tour is guided by a trained professional who will provide you with clear and enriching explanations at each stop, helping you understand the Andean worldview, the history of the Inca empire, and the influence of the colonial period. If you have little time and want to know both the main attractions of Cusco and the magic of Pisac, this tour is an ideal option for you.

Highlighted sites of the tour

Places we will visit

  • Cusco Cathedral: Jewel of colonial art built on an ancient Inca temple. Houses baroque altars, gilded altarpieces, and valuable paintings of the Cusco School.
  • Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun): The most sacred temple of the Inca Empire, spiritual and astronomical center of Tahuantinsuyo. Preserves Inca walls integrated into the church of Santo Domingo.
  • Sacsayhuamán: Imposing ceremonial complex with huge stone walls carved and placed with millimetric precision.
  • Qenqo: Ceremonial site dedicated to rituals related to mother earth, with channels and underground chambers sculpted in living rock.
  • Puka Pukara: Ancient military fortress built at a strategic point of control and surveillance towards the Sacred Valley.
  • Tambomachay: Ceremonial center linked to the worship of water, with Inca fountains and aqueducts that still function.
  • Pisac archaeological center: Impressive complex in the Sacred Valley, with terraces, canals, temples, tombs carved in rock, and views of the Urubamba river.
  • Pisac Market: Traditional space where you will find handicrafts, textiles, ceramics, and local products in a colorful and authentic environment.

Why choose this experience?

Reasons to choose us

  • You will tour the main historical monuments of Cusco and one of the most impressive archaeological centers of the Sacred Valley in a single day.
  • You will discover the ceremonial center of Pisac, a clear example of Inca agricultural engineering, with terraces that masterfully adapt to the mountainous terrain.
  • You will explore temples, canals, and tombs carved in rock, while enjoying a unique panoramic view of the Sacred Valley from the top of the mountain.
  • You will be able to connect with the living Andean culture at the traditional Pisac market, ideal for appreciating local handicrafts and learning about the daily life of the inhabitants.
  • The entire tour is guided by a professional who not only explains, but connects each site with its historical context and current legacy.

Tour Description

CUSCO CITY TOUR + PISAC Enjoy an unforgettable cultural experience that takes you from the heart of the Inca Empire to the majestic landscapes of Pisac. We begin by exploring the sacred temples and historic streets of Cusco, then continue to Pisac, one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley. There, you will enjoy spectacular panoramic views and visit its famous handicraft market, where Andean tradition comes to life in every fabric and color. An ideal tour for those seeking history, living culture, and a deep connection with the Andes.

Things you should know about this tour

Combine the Cusco City Tour with the Magic of Pisac

Full-Day Pisac and City Tour in Cusco. This is the perfect excursion for those who want to explore the archaeological treasures of the Inca capital and one of the most iconic towns in the Sacred Valley.

  • TOUR RECOMMENDATIONS
  • Comfortable Clothing: Light layered clothing. The weather in Cusco and the Sacred Valley is variable during the day but can cool down. Bring a light jacket or sweater.
  • Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes. Trekking boots are not required, but shoes with non-slip soles are recommended for irregular surfaces at archaeological sites and Pisac terraces.
  • Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, UV protection sunglasses, hat or cap. Solar radiation is intense in Cusco and the Sacred Valley.
  • Cash: Bring soles to purchase the Tourist Ticket (approx. S/70 partial, S/130 complete), entrance to Cusco Cathedral (approx. S/25), entrance to Qoricancha (S/15), voluntary tips, lunch, and purchases at Pisac market.
  • Hydration: Water bottle. Staying hydrated is important during the full day tour at altitude.
  • Backpack or Bag: Small or medium backpack to carry water, camera, documents, snacks, market purchases, and personal items.
  • Camera or Phone: Essential to capture the Cathedral, Qoricancha, Sacsayhuamán, panoramic views of Cusco, Pisac terraces, and the Sacred Valley. Bring extra battery or powerbank.
  • Medications: If you are sensitive to altitude, bring altitude sickness pills (Sorojchi pills). Also personal medications.
  • Weather: Temperate temperatures (10-20°C) in Cusco and Sacred Valley. Can be sunny with wind at high altitudes. Bring layered clothing.
  • Documents: ID or original Passport (mandatory to access archaeological sites with Tourist Ticket) and cash in soles.
  • Acclimatization: It is recommended to be in Cusco at least 1 day before the tour to adapt to the altitude. Drinking coca tea and avoiding excessive efforts helps with acclimatization.
  • Tourist Ticket: Can be purchased at the first site or previously at authorized offices. Required to enter Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, Tambomachay, and Pisac archaeological center.
  • Schedule: The tour starts at 8:00 AM and lasts all day. Take advantage of the morning for natural light photography in Cusco and the afternoon in Pisac.
  • Time at each site: Listen carefully to the guide to make the most of the history and culture of each place. Respect the established times at each stop.
  • Lunch: Not included. There are restaurant options in Pisac (budget approx. S/20-40). You can consult with the guide for recommendations.
  • Pisac Market: Ideal for buying handicrafts, textiles, ceramics, and local products. Bring extra cash and be prepared to bargain politely.
  • 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 colonial and Inca architecture photography, Sacred Valley landscapes, and panoramic views from Pisac.
  • FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
  • Is previous experience or good physical condition necessary? No, it is not necessary. The Cusco City Tour 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 to/from 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 required to enter the sites.
  • What services are NOT included? The Tourist Ticket (required to enter Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay), entrance to Qoricancha (approx. S/15), voluntary tips for guide and driver, drinks, meals, 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 archaeological sites near Cusco such as Sacsayhuamán. There are schedule options in the morning (approx. 9:00 a.m.) or afternoon (approx. 1:00 p.m.).
  • 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, staying well hydrated, and drinking coca tea helps with adaptation.
  • What places will we visit during the tour? You will visit the five most emblematic sites in 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 in the morning (approx. 9:00 a.m.) or afternoon (approx. 1:00 p.m.) with pick-up from your Cusco hotel.
  • Maximum altitude: 3,800 m.a.s.l. (Sacsayhuamán and nearby archaeological sites).
  • Difficulty level: Easy (mostly transportation with short walks).
  • Documentation: ID or original Passport is mandatory.
  • Acclimatization: Recommended to be in Cusco at least 1 day 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 high altitudes. Bring light layered clothing.
  • Clothing: Comfortable clothes, hat, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes.
  • Experience: Ideal for those looking to learn about Inca and colonial history of Cusco in a short time.
  • End: Return to hotel or central point in Cusco at the end of the tour.

Full-Day Pisac and City Tour in Cusco. This is the perfect excursion for those who want to explore the archaeological treasures of the Inca capital and one of the most iconic towns in the Sacred Valley.

This map outlines your full-day itinerary, starting in the navel of the world, Cusco, and exploring key archaeological sites like Sacsayhuamán and Qorikancha. The route then guides you through the landscapes of the Sacred Valley to the town of Pisac, highlighting the famous artisan market and the imposing Inca ruins that dominate the valley. This is a great way to visualize your adventure and make sure you don't miss any points of interest.

Ancestral Route: From Cusco to the Heart of Pisac

Tour rates and options

extreme adventure

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".

Shared Service
Price Book
Shared Service Price per traveler
$40.00 USD
Private service
Price Book
Group of 2 - 3 people Price per traveler
$75.00 USD
Group of 4 - 7 people Price per traveler
$65.00 USD
Group of 8+ people Price per traveler
$55.00 USD

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