Cusco City Tour Half Day
The Cusco City Tour provides a comprehensive half-day exploration of the city's prominent landmarks. Once the heart of the Inca Empire, Cusco retained its status as a capital even under Spanish rule.
As one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the continent, Cusco seamlessly melds tradition with the present. The city stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of Spanish and Inca architectural styles. A prime example of this fusion is the Temple of Qorikancha, which was later renamed the Santo Domingo Church.
Embarking on this tour is a must for anyone visiting the area. It offers a splendid introduction to a land rich in history and culture. To make the most of your acclimatization period, we recommend undertaking this tour during your first or second day in Cusco.
ItineraryThis is a typical itinerary for this product
Stop At: Cusco Cathedral, Portal Belen Plaza de Armas, Cusco 08002 Peru
At 1:00 PM, meet us at Cusco's Plaza De Armas, near the cathedral, to commence the Cusco City Tour. Starting at the iconic Cusco Cathedral, our local guide will explain its historical transformation from an Incan Palace to its current state, offering insights into the impact of colonialism on the region's ancient culture.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Qorikancha, Santo Domingo s/n, Cusco 08000, Peru
We'll then proceed to the revered temple of Qoriqancha, once central to Incan worship. Adorned with gold sheets on its walls and surrounded by golden statues, this temple astounded the Spaniards, leading them to describe it as "fabulous beyond belief." When the Spanish captured the Incan emperor, Atahualpa, much of the gold used for his ransom came from Qoriqancha. However, after the Spanish conquest, they dismantled Qoriqancha, repurposing its foundation to erect the Santo Domingo Church that stands there now. This site exemplifies how Spaniards integrated Inca stonework into their own architectural designs.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Sacsayhuaman, Cusco 08000 Peru
We'll then journey to Sacsayhuaman, an iconic archaeological site perched above Cusco. This fortified complex showcases the Inca's extraordinary masonry skills, with stones weighing over 100 tons. Here, your tour guide will delve into the rich history of this grand structure. Today, Sacsayhuaman is best known as the venue for the Inti Raymi festival, a time-honored religious event that dates back to the Incan era, celebrating the Sun God.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Q'enqo, Cusco Peru
We will then drive you to Q’enqo. Q’enqo is another prominent site. This was one of the largest holy places for Incas. This was the place where Incas used to do sacrifice. They also mummified the corpses in Q’enqo.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Tambomachay, Cusco Peru
Tambomachay is another interesting archaeological site located on the outskirts of Cusco city. The site consists of terraced rocks with a series of canals and aqueducts. Tambomachay is believed to have been more like a spa for the elite families of Incas.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Puka Pukara, Cusco Peru
Adjacent to the Tambomachay archaeological site lies the military ruins of Puka Pukara. This vantage point offers a splendid view of Cusco and its picturesque countryside. "Puka Pukara" translates to "red fort" in Quechua, a name inspired by the rocks' reddish hue at dusk. This site functioned as an Incan watchtower, safeguarding against potential invaders. Following our exploration of Puka Pukara, we will transport you back to the heart of Cusco.
Duration: 1 hour
Informacion Adicional
"Not wheelchair accessible"
"Most travelers can participate"
"Infant meals not included"
"Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required"
"This tour/activity will have a maximum of 9 travelers"
"Confirmation will be received at time of booking"
Horário de Início:
08:00 AM
Duração: 6 Hours
Ponto de partida: Cuzco Main Square, Del Medio 123, Cusco 08000, Peru
Cancelamentos e reembolsos:
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start time of the experience.
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