City Tour Cusco (Inca Temples) Complete

Exploring the Inca’s ancient wonders in Cusco is a must-do for any traveler. The "City Tour Cusco (Inca Temples) Complete" offers a comprehensive 5-hour journey through the city’s most significant sites, from the iconic Coricancha to the impressive Saksaywaman fortress. With modern transportation, included tickets, and an expert guide, this tour promises an immersive experience that’ll leave you captivated by the Inca Empire’s remarkable legacy. For just $15 per person, it’s an opportunity worth considering if you’re seeking to uncover Cusco’s rich history and stunning landscapes.

Key Points

• A 5-hour guided tour that visits the major Inca archaeological sites around Cusco, including Coricancha, Saksaywaman, Qenco, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay.
• The tour provides a rundown of Inca history, architecture, and cultural significance, with knowledgeable guides offering detailed explanations at each site.
• Highlights include the impressive stone structures at Saksaywaman, the blending of indigenous and colonial influences at Coricancha, and the strategic defensive designs at Puka Pukara.
• The tour includes modern transportation, entry tickets, and assistance, with a flexible cancellation policy allowing full refunds for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
• The itinerary allows for adequate exploration time at each site, with breaks for photography and appreciation of the scenic views around Cusco.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Cusco City Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the city’s Inca heritage, with a focus on its renowned temples.

The 5-hour tour departs from the Plaza Mayor de Cuzco and covers major Inca sites, including the Coricancha, Saksaywaman, Qenco, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay.

Priced from $15 per person, the tour includes modern transportation, a certified guide, and entry tickets.

Participants can expect to spend around 45 minutes at the Coricancha, 1 hour at Saksaywaman, and varying times at the other sites.

The tour culminates with a return to the Plaza Mayor de Cuzco.

Itinerary Highlights

While on the Cusco City Tour, visitors can expect to explore major Inca sites throughout the city.

The tour includes a visit to Coricancha, the Temple of the Sun, for 45 minutes. Next, they’ll spend an hour at Saksaywaman, a hilltop fortress with guided tours and photo opportunities.

The tour then moves to the Qenco Archaeological Complex for 20 minutes, which requires an extra fee.

Puka Pukara and Tambomachay are also included, with 40 minutes allocated for each site’s guided tour and break time.

The tour concludes with a return to the Plaza Mayor de Cuzco.

Coricancha (Temple of the Sun)

Coricancha, the former Inca temple dedicated to the sun god, anchors the Cusco City Tour.

Visitors spend 45 minutes exploring the remaining Inca stonework and colonial architecture. They’ll marvel at massive granite blocks seamlessly fitted together without mortar.

These days, a 16th-century Spanish church stands atop the original Inca foundations. The site provides insight into the religious beliefs and construction techniques of the Inca civilization.

Travelers appreciate learning about this significant cultural site, considered one of the most important Inca temples. It offers an immersive look at the blending of indigenous and colonial influences in Cusco.

Saksaywaman

After visiting the Coricancha, the tour heads to Saksaywaman, an impressive Inca fortress overlooking Cusco.

This massive stone complex features:

• Enormous carved stone blocks, some weighing up to 200 tons

• Strategic defensive positions and zigzag walls designed to withstand attacks

• Panoramic views of Cusco and the surrounding valleys

• Evidence of advanced engineering and construction techniques used by the Incas

Visitors can explore the ruins, take photos, and learn about the site’s history and significance from the knowledgeable tour guide.

This is a highlight of the Cusco city tour.

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Qenco Archaeological Complex

From Saksaywaman, the tour proceeds to the Qenco Archaeological Complex, an important Inca site located just a short distance away. This ancient ceremonial site features intricately carved rock formations, underground passages, and a large amphitheater. Visitors can explore the complex and marvel at the engineering prowess of the Incas.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Duration | 20 minutes |

| Access | Additional entrance fee required |

| Highlights | Carved rock formations, underground passages, amphitheater |

| Photography | Allowed throughout the site |

| Accessibility | Some uneven terrain, not fully wheelchair accessible |

After the visit, the tour continues on to the next stop on the itinerary.

Puka Pukara Archaeological Complex

Next, the tour visits the Puka Pukara Archaeological Complex. This Inca military outpost sits atop a hill overlooking the Cusco Valley.

Visitors will spend around 40 minutes exploring the ruins, which include:

• Plazas, temples, and towers

• Water fountains and canals

• Defensive walls and staircases

• Panoramic views of the surrounding landscape

After the guided tour, there’s a short break to take in the scenery and snap photos.

The Puka Pukara offers a glimpse into the strategic defense systems the Incas used to protect their capital city of Cusco.

Tambomachay

The tour then heads to the Tambomachay, another Inca archaeological complex located just north of Cusco.

This site is known for its impressive water fountains and aqueducts, which were likely used for religious ceremonies. Visitors can explore the ruins and see the well-preserved stone walls and terraces.

The guided tour here lasts around 40 minutes, giving travelers time to wander and take photos.

After Tambomachay, the tour returns to the Plaza Mayor de Cuzco, wrapping up the half-day exploration of Cusco’s ancient Inca heritage.

Tour Inclusions and Cancellation Policy

The Cusco City Tour includes modern tourist transportation, a certified tour guide fluent in Spanish, English, and Portuguese, and entry tickets to the archaeological sites visited.

First aid kit and permanent assistance are also provided. The tour offers a flexible cancellation policy – guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Plus, the tour company provides a "reserve now & pay later" option, making it easier for travelers to plan their trip.

• Modern transportation

• Certified multilingual guide

• Entry tickets included

• Flexible cancellation policy

Things To Know

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour’s group size is not specified in the provided information. However, it’s common for small-group city tours to accommodate up to 15-20 participants to ensure a personalized experience and easy navigation through historical sites.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Discounts for Children?

The tour has no age restrictions, but children under 12 receive a discounted rate. Families can take advantage of this savings when booking the tour. Specific pricing details for children should be confirmed with the tour operator.

Is the Tour Available in Any Other Languages Besides Spanish, English, and Portuguese?

The tour is available in Spanish, English, and Portuguese. However, the tour description does not mention if the tour is offered in any other languages. Customers should check with the tour provider to inquire about language options.

Can the Tour Be Customized or Tailored to Individual Preferences?

The tour can be customized to individual preferences. Clients can request modifications to the itinerary, duration, or language preferences. However, these changes may affect the price and availability.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Charges Not Mentioned in the Inclusions?

The tour inclusions don’t mention any additional fees. However, the customer feedback notes that cash is required for entrance fees, so there may be extra costs not specified in the package. It’s best to confirm any potential additional charges before booking.

Sum Up

Set out on a captivating 5-hour journey through the rich history of the Inca Empire with the "City Tour Cusco (Inca Temples) Complete." Explore significant sites, marvel at ancient architecture, and enjoy modern transportation and insightful commentary, all for a starting price of just $15 per person. This tour offers a comprehensive and immersive experience for those interested in the Inca’s fascinating legacy.

You can check availability for your dates here: