Discover the Inca wonders that await just beyond Cusco’s city limits. This day trip takes you on a captivating journey to uncover the majesty of Sacsayhuaman and Tambomachay – two of the region’s most iconic archaeological sites. Wield your camera as you explore the sun temple of Qoricancha and the impressive fortress of Sacsayhuaman, enjoying the rich history that shaped this ancient land. But the adventures don’t stop there…

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Key Points

A 5-hour day trip from Cusco focusing on Sacsayhuaman, Tambomachay, and other Inca sites with departures at 9:00 AM or 1:00 PM.
Prices range from $15.00 to $13.50 per person, with up to a 10% savings.
The tour includes transportation and a professional guide, but excludes meals and entrance fees.
Visitors can explore the ancient Inca sun temple of Coricancha, the colossal fortress of Sacsayhuaman, and the carved stone features of Qenqo.
The tour concludes at Plaza Regocijo and is suitable for all ages, except pregnant women.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This day trip from Cusco offers a chance to explore Sacsayhuaman and Tambomachay, with prices ranging from $15.00 to $13.50 per person – a savings of up to 10%.

The 5-hour tour departs from Cusco and includes a professional guide. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can also choose the reserve now, pay later option to secure their spot without an upfront payment.

The itinerary is subject to change, but the key stops are Qoricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay.

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Itinerary Details

The day trip from Cusco begins at either 9:00 AM or 1:00 PM, with the morning shift lasting approximately 5 hours and the afternoon shift running for around 5.5 hours.

The tour starts in Cusco, with key stops including Coricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay.

Visitors will spend around 1 hour at Coricancha, 85 minutes at Sacsayhuaman, 85 minutes at Qenqo, 25 minutes at Puka Pukara, and 45 minutes at Tambomachay.

The tour ends at Plaza Regocijo.

Please note that itineraries are subject to change.

Key Stops Along the Tour

The day trip from Cusco includes visits to several fascinating archaeological sites.

First, you’ll explore Coricancha, the ancient Inca sun temple.

Then, you’ll head to Sacsayhuaman, which offers impressive views of Cusco.

Next, you’ll visit Qenqo, an intriguing site used for ceremonial and astronomical purposes.

The tour also includes a stop at Puka Pukara, a former military fortress.

Finally, you’ll discover Tambomachay, known for its carved stone water channels, possibly used for water worship.

The tour showcases the rich cultural heritage and engineering feats of the Inca civilization.

Exploring Qoricancha

As visitors begin their exploration of the day trip from Cusco, they’ll first encounter Qoricancha, the revered Inca sun temple that once dazzled with its gold-adorned walls.

This sacred site was the most important temple in the Inca empire, dedicated to the sun god Inti. Guests will learn about the temple’s rich history and the architectural marvels that made it a symbol of Inca power.

They’ll stand in awe of the intricate stonework and appreciate the religious and cultural significance of this captivating landmark before continuing their journey to other iconic sites.

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Discovering Sacsayhuaman

Next on the itinerary, visitors venture to the awe-inspiring Sacsayhuaman, a colossal Inca fortress perched atop a hill overlooking Cusco.

Massive limestone boulders, some weighing over 100 tons, are intricately fitted together without mortar, showcasing the Incas’ impressive engineering prowess.

Wandering the site, guests marvel at the complex’s zigzag walls and stunning panoramic views of the city below. Guides explain Sacsayhuaman’s historical significance as a ceremonial and defensive center.

With its sheer scale and strategic location, it’s easy to see why this archeological gem has captivated visitors for centuries.

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Visiting Qenqo and Puka Pukara

From Sacsayhuaman, the tour continues its descent, guiding visitors to two lesser-known but equally fascinating Inca sites: Qenqo and Puka Pukara.

Qenqo, with its carved stone channels and terraces, was an important ceremonial and astronomical site for the Incas. Nearby, Puka Pukara served as a military fortress, its red stone walls and towers overlooking the valley.

| Site | Duration | Key Features |

| — | — | — |

| Qenqo | 85 minutes | Carved stone, ceremonial-astronomical |

| Puka Pukara | 25 minutes | Red stone walls, military fortress |

These smaller but significant ruins offer a deeper understanding of the Inca empire’s technological and strategic prowess.

Experiencing Tambomachay

After exploring the impressive ruins of Qenqo and Puka Pukara, the tour culminates at the serene site of Tambomachay.

This ancient site, once a place of water worship, features carved stone channels that guide the flow of pristine water. Visitors can marvel at the ingenious hydraulic engineering and imagine the spiritual significance this site held for the Inca civilization.

Tambomachay offers:

Beautifully preserved water channels and aqueducts.
A tranquil atmosphere perfect for contemplation.
Insights into the Inca’s advanced understanding of hydrology and architecture.

Experiencing Tambomachay provides a fitting end to this captivating day trip from Cusco.

Tour Inclusions, Exclusions, and Participant Information

This day trip from Cusco includes tourist transportation and a professional tour guide who can provide commentary in both Spanish and English.

However, meals and entrance fees to Qoricancha and the main archaeological site aren’t covered. The tour is suitable for all ages, though it’s not recommended for pregnant women.

The meeting point is available on Google Maps. Based on one review, the tour has an overall rating of 5/5, with positive feedback highlighting the friendly and professional nature of the tour guide.

Things To Know

Are Photography and Videography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography and videography are generally allowed during the tour, but visitors should check with the tour guide for any specific restrictions at each site. Respectful and responsible use of cameras is expected to preserve the sites.

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

Participants are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, meals are not included in the tour price, so visitors will need to provide their own sustenance during the 5-hour excursion.

Are There Any Activities or Experiences at Each Stop?

At each stop, there are various activities and experiences. Visitors can explore Qoricancha’s Inca ruins, marvel at Sacsayhuaman’s impressive stonework, observe Qenqo’s ceremonial site, discover Puka Pukara’s former military use, and admire Tambomachay’s intricate water channels.

What Is the Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Tour?

Comfortable, casual clothing is recommended for the tour. Dress in layers as the weather can be cool, especially at the higher-altitude sites. Sturdy walking shoes are a must for navigating the uneven terrain at the archaeological sites.

Is There an Option to Extend or Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour itinerary can’t be extended or customized, but there’s flexibility in the start time – you can choose between a morning or afternoon shift. The duration and main stops remain the same across both options.

Sum Up

This enriching day trip from Cusco offers the opportunity to explore the captivating history and architectural marvels of the Inca civilization. With a professional guide, you’ll explore the ancient sun temple Coricancha, the impressive fortress of Sacsayhuaman, and the serene sites of Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay. Convenient transportation and the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour make this an alluring option for visitors.