Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, offers visitors a chance to explore its iconic landmarks through the Free Tour of Cusco. This 2-hour guided walk takes participants on a journey through the city’s rich cultural heritage, showcasing Inca temples, palaces, and more. With knowledgeable guides, the tour promises an engaging and informative experience for those seeking to uncover the secrets of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the Free Tour of Cusco is an opportunity to delve deeper into the city’s captivating past.

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Key Points

Free 2-hour walking tour of Cusco’s renowned Inca temples and palaces, starting from Plaza Mayor de Cuzco.
Guided commentary available in English or Spanish, with skip-the-line access to some attractions.
Explore significant sites like Qorikancha, Amarucancha, and Pucamarca, learning about Cusco’s rich history and culture.
Tour is wheelchair accessible and does not require upfront payment.
Concludes at Plaza Regocijo, allowing for further exploration of the city.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The free walking tour of Cusco’s Inca temples and palaces provides a 2-hour exploration of the city’s significant historical sites.

Starting at the Plaza Mayor de Cuzco, the tour takes visitors to explore Qorikancha, Amarucancha, Pucamarca, and other iconic landmarks.

Guided commentary in English or Spanish brings the history and culture to life. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and there’s no upfront payment required – you can reserve now and pay later.

It concludes at Plaza Regocijo, allowing participants to further discover Cusco at their own pace.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.

Looking for more options in Cusco? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Highlights

Explore significant sites like Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), Amarucancha (palace of Inca Wayna Qapac), and Pucamarca (palace of Tupac Inca Yupanqui) during this guided tour. The tour also includes visits to Calle Hatunrumiyoc and Iglesia de San Cristobal, where guides provide detailed commentary. Certain attractions offer skip-the-line access through a separate entrance, allowing for a more efficient experience. Throughout the tour, participants can expect to learn about the rich history and culture of Cusco through the guide’s expertise.

| Site Visited | Duration | Highlights |

|————–|———–|————|

| Qorikancha | 30 mins | Explore the former Inca temple and learn about its history |

| Amarucancha | 20 mins | Discover the palace of Inca Wayna Qapac and its architectural features |

| Pucamarca | 25 mins | Visit the palace of Tupac Inca Yupanqui and understand its significance |

Inclusions and Exclusions

This free tour includes a professional bilingual tour guide, entry to some attractions, and the use of visual materials for explanation.

However, it excludes food and personal expenses, as well as lodging pick-up. Participants are responsible for covering these costs on their own.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 6 years old, individuals with respiratory issues, or people over 230 lbs (104 kg) and 95 years old.

This tour isn’t suitable for children under 6, individuals with respiratory issues, or people over 230 lbs (104 kg) and 95 years old.

Participants are advised to bring a camera, biodegradable sunscreen, comfortable clothes, cash, and a charged smartphone.

Intoxication, alcohol, drugs, and littering are strictly prohibited.

Participant Restrictions

Certain participant restrictions apply to this free walking tour of Cusco. The tour is not suitable for children under 6 years old, individuals with respiratory issues, or people over 230 lbs (104 kg) and 95 years old. These restrictions are in place to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants.

| Restriction | Reason |

| — | — |

| No children under 6 | Safety concerns |

| No respiratory issues | Accessibility |

| No individuals over 230 lbs or 95 years old | Physical limitations |

Participants are expected to follow the rules, which include no intoxication, alcohol, drugs, or littering. These guidelines help maintain a positive and enjoyable experience for everyone on the tour.

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Preparation and Guidelines

To prepare for this free walking tour of Cusco, participants should bring a camera, biodegradable sunscreen, comfortable clothes, cash, and a charged smartphone.

It’s important to note that intoxication, alcohol, drugs, and littering aren’t allowed during the tour.

The meeting point is at the fountain in Plaza de Armas, where you will find the Get Your Guide logo and their name.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, though individuals with respiratory issues and those over 230 lbs (104 kg) or 95 years old may not be suitable for the activities.

Following these guidelines will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

There's plenty more to explore in Cusco

Meeting Point

The meeting point for the free walking tour of Cusco is at the fountain in Plaza de Armas, where you will find the Get Your Guide logo and their name.

The meeting point for the free walking tour of Cusco is at the fountain in Plaza de Armas, where you will find the Get Your Guide logo and their name.

This designated location serves as the starting point for the 2-hour exploration of Cusco’s Inca temples and palaces.

Attendees should:

Arrive at the meeting point on time, as the tour departs promptly.
Identify themselves to the bilingual tour guide.
Listen carefully to the guide’s instructions and directions throughout the tour.
Follow all rules and guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Customer Feedback

According to the information provided, the free walking tour of Cusco has garnered overwhelmingly positive customer feedback. Based on 2 reviews, the tour has an overall rating of 5/5. Customers highlight the friendly guides and memorable visits to the historical sites. The feedback suggests the tour delivers an engaging and informative experience for participants.

| Rating | Frequency |

| — | — |

| 5/5 | 2 |

| 4/5 | 0 |

| 3/5 | 0 |

| 2/5 | 0 |

| 1/5 | 0 |

What to Expect

Participants can expect a comprehensive two-hour exploration of Cusco’s most significant Inca temples and palaces during this free walking tour.

A comprehensive two-hour exploration of Cusco’s most significant Inca temples and palaces during this free walking tour.

The itinerary highlights include:

Exploring the Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), Amarucancha (palace of Inca Wayna Qapac), and Pucamarca (palace of Tupac Inca Yupanqui).
Guided tours at Calle Hatunrumiyoc and Iglesia de San Cristobal, with a chance to skip the line through a separate entrance.
Informative commentary from a professional bilingual guide, providing insights into the history and culture of Cusco.
The use of visual materials to enhance the educational experience.

Things To Know

Can I Bring My Backpack on the Tour?

Yes, you can bring your backpack on the tour. The tour information indicates that there are no restrictions on bringing personal items, as long as you don’t bring prohibited items like alcohol or drugs.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

The tour allows photography throughout the tour. The tour overview states that participants are encouraged to bring a camera to capture the significant sites and historical commentary provided by the professional bilingual guide.

Can I Leave the Group at Any Time?

Yes, participants can leave the group at any time during the tour. However, they won’t be able to rejoin the group and may miss out on the remaining stops and explanations provided by the guide.

Do I Need to Tip the Tour Guide?

Tipping the tour guide is not required, but it’s customary to do so if you’re satisfied with the service. The amount is at your discretion, typically ranging from $5 to $10 per person.

What Happens if It Rains During the Tour?

If it rains during the tour, the guide will provide ponchos or umbrellas to participants. The tour will continue rain or shine, and the guide will adjust the itinerary as needed to ensure the group stays dry and comfortable.

Sum Up

The Free Tour of Cusco offers an enriching exploration of the city’s iconic Inca temples and palaces. With knowledgeable guides, captivating history, and a wheelchair-accessible experience, this tour is a must for culture enthusiasts. Participants can expect a positive experience, as the tour prohibits intoxication and littering, ensuring a well-organized and informative visit to Cusco’s significant sites.