Around Cusco: Walking Tour Cusco Historic Center

Cusco’s historic center is a captivating blend of Spanish colonial architecture and Inca heritage, and the "Around Cusco: Walking Tour Cusco Historic Center" is the perfect way to explore it. Led by knowledgeable local guides, this 2.5-hour tour immerses visitors in the city’s rich past, from the picturesque Plazoleta Regocijo to the bustling Mercado San Pedro. With a small group format and rave reviews, it promises an engaging and insightful experience. But the real question is, what secrets and stories will this walking tour uncover?

Key Points

• A 2.5-hour walking tour of Cusco’s historic center, priced at €9.19 per person, led by knowledgeable local guides.
• The tour covers iconic landmarks like Plaza San Francisco, Arco de Santa Clara, and Mercado San Pedro.
• Highlights include the Twelve Angled Stone and Santo Domingo Church, with optional stops for deeper insights.
• The tour starts at Plazoleta Regocijo, a quaint public square in Cusco’s historic center.
• Mercado San Pedro, a vibrant marketplace, offers a glimpse into local life and a variety of Andean products.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The walking tour of Cusco’s historic center offers an immersive glimpse into the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. Priced from €9.19 per person, this 2.5-hour experience explores the highlights of Cusco’s captivating old town.

Led by knowledgeable local guides, the tour covers iconic landmarks like the Plaza San Francisco, Arco de Santa Clara, and the bustling Mercado San Pedro.

Flexibility is key, with optional stops and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning explorer, this small-group tour promises an engaging and insightful introduction to the wonders of Cusco.

Itinerary Highlights

This walking tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through Cusco’s historic heart.

It begins at the charming Plazoleta Regocijo, where the iconic Chicha restaurant stands. Guests then explore the grand Plaza San Francisco, marvel at the intricate Arco de Santa Clara, and enjoy the lively Mercado San Pedro, sampling local produce.

The tour’s highlight is the enigmatic Twelve Angled Stone, a marvel of Inca engineering. The stunning Santo Domingo Church showcases the city’s Spanish colonial influence.

Optional stops at Calle Inca Roca and Kusicancha offer deeper insights into Cusco’s rich cultural tapestry.

The tour culminates at the vibrant Zetas.

Starting Location: Plazoleta Regocijo

Plazoleta Regocijo, a quaint public square in the heart of Cusco’s historic center, serves as the starting point for this captivating walking tour.

Travelers gather in front of the Chicha restaurant, eager to embark on an immersive journey through the city’s storied past. The lively plaza, bustling with local activity, sets the stage for an authentic exploration of Cusco’s cultural riches.

From this central gathering point, the tour winds its way through the narrow streets, uncovering the city’s architectural gems and offering glimpses into the daily lives of its residents.

It’s an ideal introduction to the wonders that await.

Plaza San Francisco

From the lively Plazoleta Regocijo, the tour heads towards the magnificent Plaza San Francisco, a historic square that exudes an air of grandeur and spiritual significance.

This colonial-era plaza is flanked by:

1. The impressive Basilica of San Francisco, a 16th-century church known for its ornate façade and intricate interiors.

2. The Convento de San Francisco, a sprawling monastery that houses a wealth of religious art and artifacts.

3. Vibrant shops and cafes, where visitors can enjoy the local culture and cuisine.

As the guide shares the plaza’s rich history, the group is captivated by its timeless allure.

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Mercado San Pedro

The Mercado San Pedro is a vibrant and bustling marketplace that offers a captivating glimpse into the heart of Cusco’s local life. Stalls brim with an array of fresh produce, handicrafts, and traditional Andean textiles, creating a symphony of colors, sounds, and aromas. Visitors can browse through a vast selection of alpaca sweaters, ponchos, and weavings, each piece showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of local artisans. Beyond the shopping experience, the market serves as a social hub, where locals gather to catch up and share stories over steaming cups of coca tea.

| Product | Price | Availability |

|———|——|————–|

| Alpaca Sweater | 25-50 soles | High |

| Llama Figurine | 10-20 soles | Moderate |

| Handwoven Poncho | 50-100 soles | High |

| Quinoa | 5-10 soles/kg | High |

| Dried Herbs | 3-7 soles/bundle | High |

Ending Location: Zetas

After exploring the vibrant Mercado San Pedro, the walking tour culminates at Zetas, a lively area known for its charming plazas and bustling atmosphere.

Wanderers can:

1. Soak in the energy of Plaza de Armas, the iconic heart of Cusco where locals and travelers mingle.

2. Discover hidden gems like the quaint Plazoleta de San Blas, with its colorful artisan shops and cozy cafes.

3. Cap off the tour by browsing the eclectic Galeria Latina, showcasing the diverse craftsmanship of the region.

As the tour draws to a close, visitors depart with a deeper appreciation for Cusco’s vibrant culture and rich history.

Tour Features

Knowledgeable and friendly local guides take visitors on an immersive journey through Cusco’s captivating historic center.

The small group format allows for more personalized attention, with separate English and Spanish tours to cater to different language preferences.

The guides share their deep insights into Cusco’s rich history and vibrant culture, bringing the city’s past to life through engaging storytelling.

Travelers appreciate the value for money and the flexibility to explore at a leisurely pace.

The tour is an excellent way to get an authentic taste of Cusco, led by passionate professionals who bring the destination to life.

Customer Reviews

Based on the overwhelmingly positive reviews, it’s clear that travelers thoroughly enjoy this walking tour of Cusco’s historic center.

The tour boasts an impressive 4.5/5 overall rating from 99 reviews. Reviewers particularly praised the knowledgeable and engaging guide, who brought the city’s history and culture to life.

With an impressive 4.5/5 rating from 99 reviews, this tour features a knowledgeable guide who brings Cusco’s history and culture to life.

As one customer from the UK, Stephen, noted, the guide provided "insightful commentary." Travelers also found excellent value for money, with one reviewer from Ireland, Niamh Aine, recommending the tour as a "great start to the trip."

The customer feedback suggests this is a must-do experience for visitors to Cusco.

1. 4.5/5 overall rating from 99 reviews

2. Knowledgeable and engaging guide

3. Excellent value for money

Things To Know

What Is the Dress Code for the Walking Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but it’s best to wear comfortable walking shoes and layers to accommodate Cusco’s changeable weather. Sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen are also recommended to protect against the sun.

Are There Any Restroom Breaks During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t include scheduled restroom breaks, but the guide is happy to accommodate requests for stops if needed. Most participants find they can comfortably complete the 2.5-hour walking tour without issues.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Stops?

The tour generally follows a set itinerary, but travelers can inquire about customizing it to include additional stops based on their interests. The knowledgeable guides are typically happy to accommodate reasonable requests within the tour’s timeframe.

Is Water Provided During the Tour or Should Participants Bring Their Own?

Based on the tour details, water is not provided, so participants should bring their own. Staying hydrated on a 2.5-hour walking tour is important, especially in Cusco’s high-altitude climate. Bringing a reusable water bottle is highly recommended.

What Is the Policy for Tips or Gratuities for the Tour Guide?

The tour doesn’t specify a recommended tip amount, but it’s customary to tip the guide if you’re satisfied with the service. Most travelers give 10-15% of the tour price as a gratuity.

Sum Up

This walking tour of Cusco’s historic center is an immersive experience that brings the city’s rich history to life. With knowledgeable local guides, visitors can explore iconic landmarks like Plaza San Francisco and Mercado San Pedro, while learning about the cultural treasures that make Cusco a must-visit destination. The small group format and high customer ratings ensure an engaging and insightful exploration of this enchanting Peruvian city.

You can check availability for your dates here: