From Cusco: Archaeological Centers + Picnic + Painting

Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, holds a wealth of cultural treasures waiting to be explored. This immersive tour combines visits to iconic archaeological sites, a serene Andean picnic, and a creative painting workshop – offering travelers a unique opportunity to explore the region’s rich heritage. From the awe-inspiring Qoricancha to the impressive Sacsayhuaman complex, each stop promises to captivate the senses and leave a lasting impression. But the true highlight might just lie in the unexpected…

Key Points

• This 6-hour tour from Cusco offers a unique combination of visiting archaeological sites, enjoying an Andean picnic, and participating in a painting workshop.
• Highlights include exploring the Inca ruins of Qoricancha and Sacsayhuaman, as well as a peaceful picnic in the Qenqo Forest surrounded by eucalyptus trees.
• The painting workshop allows participants to create personalized souvenirs by painting a Pucará bull using Andean colors.
• The tour provides a multifaceted cultural experience, blending archaeological discovery, artistic expression, and the natural beauty of the Cusco region.
• The tour is available in English and Spanish, with a private group option, and offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour lasts 6 hours and costs from $305.00 per person.

A 6-hour tour priced at $305.00 per person.

It’s available in English and Spanish, with a private group option.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests can reserve their spot without upfront payment.

The tour includes transportation, a professional guide, an Andean picnic, a Pucará bull for painting, and personal assistance.

Guests will visit Qoricancha, Sacsayhuaman, and Qenqo Forest, where they’ll participate in a painting workshop and enjoy a scenic picnic.

Extra expenses include food not mentioned and tips.

Itinerary Highlights

As part of the itinerary, visitors can explore Qoricancha, a site featuring a remarkable blend of Inca and colonial architecture, including the Santo Domingo Convent.

The tour also takes participants to Sacsayhuaman, one of the largest archaeological complexes of the Incas.

Plus, they’ll enjoy an artistic picnic in the scenic Qenqo Forest, surrounded by towering eucalyptus trees.

The highlights of the day include:

• Visiting the Inca and colonial site of Qoricancha

• Exploring the vast Sacsayhuaman archaeological complex

• Experiencing an artistic picnic in the Qenqo Forest

• Discovering the region’s rich cultural and historical heritage

Artistic Experience

Beyond the archaeological wonders, this tour offers an immersive artistic experience. Guests will participate in a painting workshop guided by a professional Cusco artist. They’ll create their own Pucará bull paintings using Andean colors to take home as souvenirs. On top of that, the tour includes an elegant Andean picnic, complete with cheeses, seasonal fruits, and a bottle of wine, all served on traditional blankets.

| Activity | Duration | Included |

| — | — | — |

| Painting Workshop | 1 hour | Pucará bull, Andean colors |

| Andean Picnic | 1 hour | Cheeses, fruits, wine |

| Free Time | 1 hour | – |

The artistic components seamlessly complement the archaeological exploration, providing a multifaceted cultural experience.

Qoricancha

One of the highlights of the tour is a visit to Qoricancha, the former Inca temple of the sun.

This site showcases a unique blend of Inca and colonial architecture, including the Santo Domingo Convent.

Visitors can explore:

• Inca stone walls and foundations

• Intricate carvings and imagery

• Remnants of the temple’s opulent past

• The convent’s Renaissance-style cloisters

Qoricancha provides a glimpse into the Inca’s advanced engineering and religious practices, as well as the intersection of pre-Columbian and colonial influences in Cusco’s history.

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Sacsayhuaman

Sacsayhuaman is one of the largest archaeological complexes of the Incas, situated on the northern outskirts of Cusco.

This impressive fortress, with its massive stone walls, was once a center of religious and military importance. Visitors can explore the site’s winding paths, admire the intricate stonework, and imagine the grandeur of the Inca civilization.

The ruins offer stunning panoramic views of the city below. As part of the tour, guests will have the opportunity to learn about the site’s history and significance from a knowledgeable guide.

Qenqo Forest

The Qenqo Forest, a serene eucalyptus woodland, beckons visitors to explore its verdant landscapes.

This scenic picnic spot offers a peaceful respite from the bustle of Cusco. Guests can:

• Savor an Andean-inspired picnic spread, complete with cheeses, seasonal fruits, and a bottle of wine.

• Relax on cozy blankets amidst the towering eucalyptus trees.

• Immerse themselves in the artistic experience of painting Pucará bulls, guided by a local Cusco artist.

• Capture the beauty of the forest through their own artistic creations to take home as memorable souvenirs.

Inclusions

As part of the Archaeological Centers in Cusco tour, the inclusions cover a range of essential services and experiences to enhance the journey.

The tour provides tourist transportation, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience. A professional guide accompanies the group, offering valuable insights and expertise throughout the excursion.

Reliable transportation and a knowledgeable guide enhance the comfort and value of the Archaeological Centers in Cusco tour.

Travelers can indulge in an Andean picnic, complete with a snack board of cheeses, seasonal fruits, and a bottle of wine, all enjoyed on traditional Andean blankets.

Plus, you will have the opportunity to paint Pucará bulls, a popular Andean craft, to take home as souvenirs.

Personal assistance is also provided to cater to the needs of the group.

Additional Information

Aside from the inclusions mentioned, travelers should be aware of any additional expenses not covered in the tour price, such as food not specifically mentioned and tips for the guide and staff.

The meeting point for the tour is available via a Google Maps link. Visitors should check availability for starting times, as the tour operates on a schedule.

Key details to keep in mind:

• Extra expenses: Food not mentioned, tips

• Meeting point: Open in Google Maps

• Check availability for starting times

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Recommended Attire for the Tour?

The tour recommends comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. Wear sturdy shoes for walking and hiking. Bring layers in case of changing weather conditions. Casual, relaxed attire is suitable for the tour’s activities and excursions.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Painting Workshop?

The tour does not have any age restrictions for the painting workshop. Participants of all ages can enjoy the artistic experience and create their own Pucará bull painting as a souvenir.

Can We Choose the Colors for the Pucará Bull Painting?

Yes, participants can choose the colors they’d like to use when painting the Pucará bull during the workshop. The tour allows for creative freedom in selecting the Andean colors to personalize the souvenir.

Is the Guide Available to Answer Questions During the Picnic?

Yes, the guide is available during the picnic to answer any questions you may have. They’ll be there to provide information and assistance throughout the entire tour experience, including the painting workshop and scenic lunch.

Can We Bring Our Own Snacks or Drinks to the Picnic?

Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks or drinks to the picnic. The tour includes an Andean picnic with a snack board, cheese, seasonal fruits, and a bottle of wine, but additional personal items are allowed.

The Sum Up

This immersive tour showcases the captivating history and vibrant culture of Cusco. Visitors will explore iconic Inca archaeological sites, savor a delightful Andean picnic, and unleash their creativity through a painting workshop. With a seamless blend of educational and artistic experiences, this tour promises a truly memorable journey through Cusco’s rich heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: