Cuzco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, beckons travelers with its captivating blend of pre-Columbian heritage and colonial charm. A guided tour of this enchanting city promises an immersive journey through the remnants of the Inca civilization, where intricate stonework and awe-inspiring fortresses stand as testaments to the ingenuity of a bygone era. From the iconic Qoricancha to the mighty Sacsayhuaman, each site unveils a new layer of Inca history waiting to be uncovered.

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Key Points

The Cuzco tour is a 6-hour guided exploration of the ancient Inca city, including visits to iconic sites like Qoricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay.
The tour provides an in-depth understanding of Inca architecture, culture, and heritage, led by a bilingual guide to enhance the cultural experience.
Participants can choose from morning or afternoon departures, with hotel pick-up and return to the Plaza de Armas included in the $14.00 per person price.
The tour features impressive examples of Inca stonework, such as the massive blocks at Sacsayhuaman, showcasing the advanced construction techniques of the Inca civilization.
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 95 years old, and participants should bring necessary items like passports, hats, snacks, and water.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour of Cuzco, the ancient Inca city, offers visitors an opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of this historic destination.

Visitors can explore the rich cultural heritage of the ancient Inca city of Cuzco on a guided tour.

Priced from $14.00 per person, the tour lasts approximately 6 hours and includes hotel pick-up, a bilingual guide, and transportation to the archaeological sites.

Travelers can choose either a morning or afternoon departure, with the return to Plaza de Armas scheduled for 1:30-2:00 p.m. or 6:30 p.m., respectively.

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now & pay later option are also available.

Want to see more of Cusco? Here are other city tours we've reviewed

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins with a morning pick-up at 8:00 am or an afternoon pick-up at 12:30 pm, allowing visitors to explore the highlights of Cuzco’s ancient Inca legacy.

The itinerary includes a visit to Qoricancha, the Temple of the Sun, where Inca architecture and cultural syncretism can be observed.

Next, the group travels to Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay, marveling at the impressive Inca stonework and the Water Temple of Tambomachay.

The tour concludes with a return to Plaza de Armas, either in the early afternoon or early evening, depending on the shift selected.

Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun)

Qoricancha, also known as the Temple of the Sun, stands as a testament to the architectural and engineering prowess of the Inca civilization.

This sacred site was once covered in gold, a symbol of the Inca’s reverence for the sun. Today, the temple’s foundations and some walls remain, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.

The temple’s design seamlessly blends Inca masonry with Spanish colonial architecture, reflecting the region’s complex history.

Exploring Qoricancha provides an opportunity to understand the cultural syncretism that defines Cuzco’s rich heritage.

Sacsayhuaman

Towering over Cuzco’s cityscape, Sacsayhuaman is an awe-inspiring Inca fortress that showcases the civilization’s remarkable architectural prowess. This colossal structure features massive stone blocks, some weighing over 100 tons, meticulously fitted together without mortar. Visitors can explore its zig-zag walls, expansive plazas, and strategic vantage points that offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Sacsayhuaman’s impressive design and engineering feats are a testament to the Inca’s advanced construction techniques and deep understanding of their environment.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Construction | Massive stone blocks fitted without mortar |

| Size | Some blocks weigh over 100 tons |

| Design | Zig-zag walls and expansive plazas |

| Location | Overlooks the city of Cuzco |

| Significance | Showcases Inca architectural prowess |

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Qenqo

Qenqo, an intriguing archaeological site, sits nestled within the rugged terrain surrounding Cuzco.

This enigmatic sacred precinct captivates visitors with its intricate carvings, mysterious underground chambers, and ritual amphitheaters.

Highlights include:

The main altar, carved from a single massive stone block, believed to have been used for astronomical and religious ceremonies.
Subterranean passages and niches that hint at the site’s ceremonial functions.
Finely sculpted trapezoidal doorways and niches that exemplify Inca architectural mastery.

Exploring Qenqo offers a window into the rich cultural and spiritual practices of the ancient Inca civilization.

There's plenty more to explore in Cusco

Puka Pukara

Just a short distance from the enigmatic site of Qenqo lies the impressive Puka Pukara, a well-preserved Inca military outpost. This massive, reddish-hued complex was strategically positioned to guard the royal capital of Cusco. Puka Pukara’s multiple plazas, staircases, and towers showcase the Inca’s engineering prowess and defensive capabilities. Visitors can explore the site’s intricate layout, admiring the finely-cut stonework and panoramic views.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Purpose | Inca military outpost |

| Location | Near Qenqo |

| Architecture | Reddish-hued, with plazas, staircases, and towers |

| Significance | Guarded the royal capital of Cusco |

| Highlights | Finely-cut stonework, panoramic views |

Tambomachay

Tambomachay is an enigmatic Inca site known as the "Water Temple." This well-preserved complex features a series of aqueducts, canals, and waterfalls that cascaded down terraced stone foundations.

The tranquil setting evokes a sense of sacredness, as if the site was designed for ceremonial rituals and reflection.

The tranquil setting evokes a sense of sacredness, as if the site was designed for ceremonial rituals and reflection.

Key features of Tambomachay include:

Elaborate hydraulic engineering with precisely carved stone channels
Carved stone seats and niches, suggesting it was a place of rest and observation
Proximity to natural springs, indicating its importance as a revered water source

The site’s meticulous construction and connection to water highlight the Inca’s advanced understanding of hydrology and reverence for natural resources.

Inclusions, Exclusions, and Participant Restrictions

The tour includes hotel pick-up, a bilingual guide, and transportation to the archaeological sites.

However, meals and entrance fees are extra expenses. The Cusco Tourist Ticket is required to access some sites.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 95 years old.

Participants should bring their passport or ID, hat, snacks, water, breathable clothing, and sports shoes.

Smoking, alcohol, drugs, and alcoholic drinks in the vehicle aren’t allowed.

Providing a WhatsApp number with the correct country code helps with better communication during the booking process.

Things To Know

What Are the Local Transportation Options to Get to Cuzco?

Travelers can get to Cuzco via bus, train, or plane. Bus and train services connect Cuzco to major cities like Lima, while the Cuzco airport offers domestic and international flights. Choosing the right transportation depends on one’s budget, schedule, and preferred travel experience.

Can I Purchase Local Handicrafts During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t include stops at local handicraft shops. However, visitors can purchase souvenirs and handicrafts from vendors near the archaeological sites or in Cuzco’s historic center after the tour concludes.

Are There Any Alternative Tour Options for Solo Travelers?

The tour company doesn’t currently offer any specialized options for solo travelers. However, they do provide a "reserve now, pay later" option that allows flexibility for independent travelers. Solo participants are welcome to join the regular group tour.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Mobility Issues?

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 95 years old due to the uneven terrain and steep stairs at the archaeological sites. Those with mobility issues may find the tour challenging.

Are There Any COVID-19 Safety Protocols in Place During the Tour?

The tour follows COVID-19 safety protocols such as requiring masks, limiting group sizes, and enforcing social distancing. Hand sanitizer is provided, and surfaces are frequently cleaned. Travelers must also complete a health questionnaire before the tour.

Sum Up

Exploring Cuzco’s ancient Inca sites offers a captivating glimpse into Peru’s rich cultural heritage. From the impressive Sacsayhuaman fortress to the sacred Qoricancha temple, this comprehensive tour provides an immersive experience that’s both educational and visually stunning. With flexible scheduling and complimentary cancellation, it’s an excellent choice for anyone seeking to explore the Inca’s remarkable architectural and historical legacy.