Cusco City Tour: Qoricancha, Saqsayhuaman, Quenqo, Puca Puca

Cusco’s ancient Inca sites captivate visitors from around the world. The city tour takes you on a thrilling journey through these iconic landmarks, immersing you in the rich history and culture of the Inca Empire. From the sun-drenched Qoricancha temple to the impressive fortress of Saqsayhuaman, each site offers a glimpse into the ingenious architectural and engineering feats of the Inca people. What secrets do these awe-inspiring ruins hold? Let’s uncover them together as we explore the wonders of Cusco.

Key Points

• This Cusco city tour includes visits to the Inca Sun Temple of Qoricancha, the impressive fortress of Sacsayhuaman, the religious site of Qenqo, and the "red fort" of Puka Pukara.
• The tour lasts 6 hours and is priced starting from €22.99 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Highlights of the tour include the architectural marvels of the Inca sites, panoramic views, and insights into the Inca’s religious practices and engineering prowess.
• Visitors should bring a camera, cash for partial admission fees, and a jacket due to Cusco’s unpredictable weather, while the use of drones is not permitted.
• The tour includes transportation, a professional guide, and partial admission fees, providing a comprehensive exploration of Cusco’s Inca heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Cusco City Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the historical and cultural gems of Cusco. Priced from €22.99 per person, the 6-hour tour includes visits to iconic sites like Qoricancha, Saqsayhuaman, Quenqo, and Puca Puca.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, the tour provides flexibility and convenience.

Transportation between locations, a professional guide, and partial admission fees are included. Customers can expect panoramic views of Cusco and the surrounding mountains during the Saqsayhuaman stop.

Itinerary and Highlights

Kicking off the Cusco City Tour, visitors will first explore Qoricancha, the largest Inca temple dedicated to the sun, now home to the Convent of Santo Domingo.

Next, the group will venture to the impressive Sacsayhuaman fortress, renowned for its intricate Inca architecture.

The tour then moves on to Qenqo, a site of religious significance, followed by Puka Pukara, the "red fort."

The final stop is Tambomachay, the "Water Temple," offering panoramic views of Cusco and the surrounding mountains.

Throughout the journey, travelers will gain unique insights into Cusco’s rich cultural heritage.

Qoricancha: The Inca Sun Temple

Qoricancha, the largest Inca temple dedicated to the sun, now serves as the foundation for the Convent of Santo Domingo. This impressive temple was once covered in gold, a testament to the Inca’s reverence for the sun. Today, visitors can explore the site’s remaining Inca walls and structures, marveling at the intricate stonework.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Inca Sun Temple | Largest Inca temple dedicated to the sun |

| Convent of Santo Domingo | Built atop the Inca temple |

| Remaining Inca Walls | Showcase the Inca’s impressive architectural skills |

| Gold Coverings | Once adorned the temple, reflecting the sun’s power |

Touring Qoricancha provides a glimpse into the Inca’s rich cultural and religious heritage.

Sacsayhuaman: An Impressive Inca Fortress

Perched atop the rolling hills overlooking Cusco, Sacsayhuaman fortress commands an imposing presence.

This monumental Inca structure features:

1. Massive stone walls up to 20 feet tall, constructed with interlocking blocks weighing tons.

2. An intricate zigzag design that once protected the city from invaders.

3. Stunning panoramic views of Cusco and the surrounding Andean peaks.

4. A mystical atmosphere, as visitors can imagine the Inca ceremonies and celebrations that once took place here.

Exploring Sacsayhuaman is a highlight of any Cusco city tour, showcasing the engineering prowess and architectural genius of the Inca civilization.

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Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay

After exploring the impressive Sacsayhuaman fortress, the Cusco City Tour continues to uncover more Inca archaeological sites in the surrounding area.

The tour visits Qenqo, an intricate limestone cave complex with carved staircases and stone structures.

Next is Puka Pukara, the "red fort" known for its impressive ruins and panoramic views.

The final stop is Tambomachay, the "Water Temple," featuring stone aqueducts and canals that hint at the Inca’s sophisticated hydraulic engineering.

Exploring these lesser-known gems provides a deeper understanding of the Inca’s architectural and engineering prowess.

Panoramic Views of Cusco

One of the highlights of the Cusco City Tour is the panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains from the top of Sacsayhuaman.

As you ascend the Inca fortress, you’ll be rewarded with stunning vistas:

1. A bird’s-eye view of Cusco’s charming colonial architecture and winding streets.

2. The snow-capped peaks of the Andes mountains rising majestically in the distance.

3. The lush greenery of the valleys and hillsides that cradle the ancient city.

4. The awe-inspiring scale and engineering of the Inca stonework at Sacsayhuaman.

These panoramic views provide a breathtaking introduction to the grandeur of Cusco’s natural and cultural wonders.

Inclusions and Transportation

The Cusco City Tour includes a range of amenities to make your sightseeing experience convenient and seamless. You’ll be picked up from your accommodation in central Cusco and transported between the various tourist sites. A professional tour guide, fluent in Spanish or English, will lead the way and provide insightful commentary. The partial tourist ticket (S/70.00 per person) and entrance fee to Qoricancha (15 soles) are included. At the end of the tour, you’ll be returned to your hotel.

| Inclusions | Details |

| — | — |

| Pickup & Drop-off | From/to accommodation in central Cusco |

| Transportation | Between tourist sites |

| Tour Guide | Professional, Spanish or English |

| Tickets | Partial tourist ticket, Qoricancha entrance |

| Return to Hotel | Drop-off at the end of the tour |

Important Information and Requirements

When joining the Cusco City Tour, there are a few important items to keep in mind. The tour requires:

1. Bringing a camera to capture the stunning Inca architecture and views.

2. Having cash on hand to pay the partial tourist ticket (S/70.00 per person) and the entrance fee to Qoricancha (15 soles).

3. Carrying your passport or ID for identification purposes.

4. Packing a jacket, as the weather in Cusco can be unpredictable.

Plus, the use of drones isn’t allowed during the tour.

Being prepared with these essentials will help ensure a smooth and memorable experience exploring the ancient wonders of Cusco.

Things To Know

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour seems suitable for children, as it includes visits to historic sites and panoramic views. However, the duration of 6 hours may be lengthy for younger kids. Parents should consider the child’s stamina and interest in the included activities.

Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour operator may allow some customization of the itinerary, though the standard tour covers the main highlights. Travelers should inquire about options to add or remove sites based on their interests and time constraints.

Will We Have Breaks for Meals During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t include dedicated meal breaks, but guests can take short stops to grab snacks or light bites as needed. The guide can provide recommendations for local restaurants in Cusco for lunch on their own during the tour.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

There is an option for a private Cusco city tour. Booking a private tour allows for a more personalized experience and flexibility in the itinerary. Private tours typically cost more than group tours but offer greater convenience and control over the tour schedule.

Can We Purchase Additional Items or Activities During the Tour?

Yes, participants can purchase additional items or activities during the tour. The tour includes some entry tickets, but travelers may opt to buy optional extras like souvenirs or visit additional sites not covered in the main itinerary.

Sum Up

The Cusco City Tour offers an immersive exploration of Inca heritage, showcasing iconic sites like the magnificent Qoricancha and the impressive Saqsayhuaman fortress. Visitors will uncover the spiritual significance of Qenqo and Puka Pukara, all while enjoying panoramic views of the historic city. With transportation and a knowledgeable guide included, this 6-hour tour provides a rich insight into Inca culture and architecture for just €22.99.

You can check availability for your dates here: