Cusco’s vibrant history and cultural heritage come alive on this free walking tour. Starting at Plaza Regocijo, guests explore the city’s highlights – from the bustling San Pedro Market to the iconic Qoricancha temple. Led by knowledgeable guides, the 3-hour experience provides an insider’s perspective on Inca ruins, colonial architecture, and local cuisine. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour promises an immersive journey through Cusco’s captivating past. What’s waiting to be discovered?

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Key Points

The free walking tour of Cusco lasts 3 hours and starts at Plaza Regocijo near Plaza de Armas, with live guides in Spanish and English.
The tour highlights include Casa del Inca Garcilaso, San Pedro Market, and Qoricancha temple, and explores ancient Inca archaeological sites.
The route includes Plaza de San Francisco, Santa Clara Arch, San Pedro Market, Plaza de Armas, and the Church of the Company of Jesus.
The tour provides insights into local cuisine available at San Pedro Market and highlights colonial architecture throughout Cusco.
Despite an overall rating of 1 out of 5, the tour offers an opportunity to learn about Cusco’s rich cultural heritage and traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

The free walking tour of Cusco offers a 3-hour exploration of the city’s historic landmarks, starting from the Plaza Regocijo near the Plaza de Armas.

Led by live guides in Spanish and English, the tour costs from $2 per person and includes highlights like the Casa del Inca Garcilaso, San Pedro Market, and the iconic Qoricancha temple.

Participants can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

With the option to reserve and pay later, this budget-friendly tour provides an excellent introduction to Cusco’s rich cultural heritage and colonial architecture.

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Meeting Point and Itinerary

The free walking tour of Cusco begins at Plaza Regocijo, located right next to the iconic Plaza de Armas.

From there, the route takes visitors through a series of significant sites, including the Casa del Inca Garcilaso de la Vega, Plaza de San Francisco and its botanical garden, the National College of Sciences and Arts, the Santa Clara Arch, and the lively San Pedro Market.

The tour then heads to the Plaza de Armas, where the city’s cathedral and the church of the Company of Jesus can be admired.

The itinerary also includes the Calle del Sol, the Palace of Inca Pachaquteq, and the Church of Santo Domingo and temple of Qoricancha.

Cultural Insights and Features

This free walking tour of Cusco allows visitors to explore the city’s ancient Inca archaeological sites and learn about the local cuisine at the vibrant San Pedro Market.

Guests will discover the colonial architecture of Cusco and get insider tips on dining and exploration.

The tour highlights important Inca and colonial landmarks, including the Palace of Inca Pachaquteq and the Church of Santo Domingo and temple of Qoricancha.

Through this immersive experience, travelers gain a deeper understanding of Cusco’s rich cultural heritage and traditions.

Customer Experience and Feedback

According to customer reviews, the free walking tour of Cusco seems to have some issues with tour availability and communication.

The overall rating for the tour is a disappointing 1 out of 5 based on a single review. The main complaint is that the tour guide didn’t show up, and the customer had difficulty reaching out to the company.

Despite the tour’s promise of an official tourism guide and an orientation of the route, the poor customer experience has tarnished the tour’s reputation.

Potential participants should check availability and communication channels before booking.

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Additional Information

Although the free walking tour of Cusco highlights important locations throughout the city, extra costs may apply depending on participant selection and date.

The tour includes an official tourism guide who provides an orientation of the route and shares insights into the city’s ancient Inca archaeological sites, colonial architecture, and local cuisine at the San Pedro Market.

Key features of the walking tour include:

Exploration of Cusco’s historical landmarks and cultural sites.
Opportunity to learn about local traditions and culinary specialties.
Insider tips from the expert tour guide on dining and further exploration.

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Exploring Ancient Inca Ruins

One of the highlights of the free walking tour of Cusco is exploring the ancient Inca ruins that dot the city.

Visitors will see the Casa del Inca Garcilaso de la Vega, an important historical site, and the Palace of Inca Pachacutec, a stunning example of Inca architecture.

The tour also includes a visit to the temple of Qoricancha, a revered Inca site that was later converted into a Spanish colonial church.

A highlight of the tour is the visit to the Qoricancha, an Inca temple later converted into a Spanish colonial church.

These ancient ruins provide insight into Cusco’s rich cultural heritage and the ingenuity of the Inca civilization.

Discovering Local Cuisine at San Pedro Market

As visitors explore the historic streets of Cusco, the free walking tour takes them to the vibrant San Pedro Market, where they can discover the local cuisine that has nourished the Andean region for centuries.

At the market, travelers can:

Sample traditional Peruvian dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado, and quinoa-based meals.
Browse the stalls brimming with fresh produce, herbs, and spices.
Interact with local vendors and learn about the cultural significance of the market.

This immersive experience allows visitors to gain a deeper appreciation for Cusco’s culinary heritage and the vibrant community that sustains it.

Navigating Colonial Architecture in Cusco

How does one navigate the colonial architecture that captivates visitors to Cusco? The free walking tour showcases Cusco’s impressive colonial buildings and landmarks.

Explore the Casa del Inca Garcilaso de la Vega, a 16th-century mansion. Admire the Santa Clara Arch and the National College of Sciences and Arts.

The tour also visits the iconic Plaza de Armas, home to the grand cathedral and the church of the Company of Jesus. Along Calle del Sol, discover the Palace of Inca Pachaquteq and the captivating Church of Santo Domingo.

This tour provides an immersive experience in Cusco’s rich colonial history and architecture.

Things To Know

What Is the Group Size for the Walking Tour?

The walking tour’s group size is not specified in the provided information. The details focus on the tour’s duration, price, meeting point, and highlights, but do not mention the group size or capacity for the free walking tour of Cusco.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The walking tour’s accessibility for wheelchair users is unclear. The details provided don’t mention if the route and sites are wheelchair-friendly. Customers should inquire with the tour operator about accessibility accommodations before booking.

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

Yes, participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour is meant to be flexible, allowing visitors to enjoy the experience at their own pace and comfort level.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

While the tour details don’t specifically mention student or senior discounts, it’s worth checking with the tour operator. They may offer reduced rates for these groups, so it’s best to inquire when making your booking.

Can I Modify the Tour Itinerary to Focus on Specific Interests?

Yes, you can modify the tour itinerary to focus on your specific interests. The tour provider offers flexibility and allows you to customize the route based on your preferences, ensuring you get the most out of your Cusco experience.

Sum Up

The "Free Walking Tour of Cusco" offers an immersive cultural experience, guiding visitors through the city’s vibrant markets, historic landmarks, and colonial architecture. With knowledgeable English-speaking guides, the tour promises a memorable introduction to Cusco’s rich Inca heritage and modern-day traditions. Whether you’re seeking insider tips or a deeper understanding of the local culture, this tour provides an engaging and practical way to explore the heart of this captivating Peruvian city.