Cusco’s stunning historical sites offer a captivating glimpse into the Inca civilization. From the magnificent Qoricancha to the impressive Sacsayhuaman fortress, these landmarks showcase the architectural prowess and cultural significance of the Inca empire. Visitors can also explore the enigmatic ruins of Qenqo, the vibrant Puca Pucara, and the serene Tambomachay baths. Each site holds the power to transport travelers back in time and leave them awestruck by the enduring legacy of the Incas.

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Key Points

This 5-hour tour in Cusco offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s significant Inca archaeological sites, including Qoricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay.
Led by bilingual guides, the tour provides insights into the history and cultural significance of these UNESCO World Heritage Site landmarks.
Participants can enjoy guided visits, ample photo opportunities, and the chance to explore lesser-known sites like the enigmatic ruins of Qenqo.
The tour is priced at $21 per person and includes hotel pickup, bilingual guide, transportation, and entrance fees, offering excellent value.
Travelers are advised to bring cash for incidentals, as the tour is not suitable for individuals with physical limitations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of some of Cusco’s most significant historical and archaeological sites.

It includes visits to Qoricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay, providing an immersive experience in the region’s rich cultural heritage.

The tour lasts 5 hours, starting and ending in the center of Cusco. It’s led by bilingual (Spanish/English) guides, accommodating up to 19 participants.

From the Temple of the Sun to the impressive Inca fortress, this tour showcases the most iconic landmarks that have made Cusco a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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

Pricing and Reservation

The tour is priced from $21.00 per person.

Priced from $21.00 per person, this tour offers excellent value for the price.

Visitors can book their spot without upfront payment through the reserve now & pay later option.

What’s more, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour includes pickup from the hotel, a bilingual guide, tourist transportation, and entrance fees to Qoricancha and the Partial Cusco tourist ticket.

While meals and other services aren’t included, travel insurance is provided.

With an overall 5/5 rating from travelers, this tour offers an excellent value for the price.

Inclusions

The tour includes pickup from your hotel, where the address can be provided.

A bilingual tour guide (Spanish/English) accompanies the group throughout the excursion. The transportation used is tourist-friendly. Entrance fees for Qoricancha (15 soles) and the Partial Cusco tourist ticket (70 soles) are included. Travel insurance is also provided.

The tour highlights include:

Guided visits to each attraction with ample time for photos
Exploring the renowned Qoricancha, the Temple of the Sun
Admiring the impressive Inca fortress of Sacsayhuaman
Discovering the archaeological sites of Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay

Tour Highlights

Guided visits to each attraction allow ample time for participants to capture memorable photos.

The tour highlights the iconic Qoricancha, also known as the Temple of the Sun, a testament to the Inca’s remarkable masonry skills.

Sacsayhuaman, the impressive Inca fortress, offers stunning panoramic views of Cusco.

Other sites include the enigmatic ruins of Qenqo, the red-hued Puca Pucara, and the ceremonial baths of Tambomachay.

Throughout the tour, the bilingual guide provides insights into the rich history and cultural significance of these remarkable Inca sites.

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Important Information

Although this tour isn’t suitable for individuals with certain physical limitations, such as back problems, wheelchair users, respiratory issues, low fitness levels, or those over 70 years old, the experience offers a unique opportunity to explore Cusco’s iconic Inca sites.

Travelers should bring cash to cover incidentals. The tour has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with an overall rating of 5/5 from past participants.

Key highlights include:

Guided visits to each archaeological site
Ample time for photos
Seeing the stunning Qoricancha, or Temple of the Sun
Marveling at the impressive Sacsayhuaman fortress
Exploring the lesser-known sites of Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay

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Qoricancha: Temple of the Sun

As the centerpiece of the tour, Qoricancha, also known as the Temple of the Sun, showcases the incredible engineering and architectural feats of the Inca civilization.

This sacred site was once covered in gold, a testament to the Inca’s reverence for the sun. Visitors can marvel at the intricate stonework and the integration of the temple’s design with the natural landscape.

The Inca’s mastery of construction techniques is evident in the way the building’s walls seamlessly fit together without mortar.

Qoricancha offers a glimpse into the grandeur and spirituality of the Inca empire.

Sacsayhuaman: Inca Fortress

After exploring the stunning Qoricancha, the tour moves on to the awe-inspiring Sacsayhuaman.

This Inca fortress, situated on a hilltop overlooking Cusco, is a testament to the engineering prowess of the Inca civilization. Visitors are captivated by the massive limestone blocks, some weighing over 200 tons, that were precisely fitted together without mortar.

The site’s strategic location and intricate design make it a true marvel. Exploring Sacsayhuaman evokes a sense of:

Grandeur
Mystique
Power
Ingenuity
Timelessness

The guided tour provides insights into the site’s history and significance, leaving visitors with a profound appreciation for Inca architecture and engineering.

Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay

Following the tour of the impressive Sacsayhuaman fortress, the journey continues to explore three additional Inca archaeological sites: Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay.

Qenqo, meaning "labyrinth" in Quechua, is a rock formation with intricately carved stone channels and staircases.

Puca Pucara, or "red fortress," was likely a military checkpoint and administrative center.

Finally, Tambomachay, also known as the "Inca baths," features ornate stone fountains and aqueducts, suggesting it was an important ceremonial site.

These captivating Inca ruins provide a glimpse into the sophisticated engineering and architectural prowess of the ancient civilization.

Things To Know

Is Photography Allowed at the Archaeological Sites?

Photography is generally allowed at the archaeological sites on this tour. Visitors are encouraged to capture photos throughout the guided visits, ensuring they respect any site-specific rules or restrictions.

What Language Services Are Available for Non-English/Spanish Speakers?

The tour offers bilingual (Spanish/English) guide services. Other language options are not mentioned, so non-English/Spanish speakers should inquire about availability of interpreters or audio guides prior to booking the tour.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Guests are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, meals and other services are not included in the tour price. The tour focuses on guided visits to the key sites.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for Children?

The tour is not suitable for individuals over 70 years old or those with physical limitations. There are no specific age restrictions for children, but the activity may not be appropriate for very young kids due to the length and terrain.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Gear for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t require any special equipment. However, travelers should bring cash for entrance fees and wear comfortable walking shoes. The guide will provide all necessary information and transportation during the 5-hour tour.

Sum Up

Cusco’s rich Inca heritage is on full display at these awe-inspiring sites. From the magnificent Qoricancha to the imposing Sacsayhuaman, each destination offers a unique glimpse into the past. Explore the enigmatic ruins of Qenqo, the striking Puca Pucara, and the serene Tambomachay to take in the cultural significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.