Tour the City of Cusco + Qoricancha + Saqsayhuaman

Discover the captivating history of Cusco on this immersive tour. Explore the iconic Qoricancha Temple, where Inca and Spanish architecture converge, and marvel at the impressive Sacsayhuaman fortress. This journey through the heart of the Inca Empire promises remarkable stories and intricate stonework. With convenient transportation and included entrance fees, you’ll experience the city’s rich heritage firsthand. Uncover the hidden gems that make Cusco a truly enchanting destination.

Key Points

• This comprehensive tour explores Cusco’s renowned historical and archaeological sites, including the Qoricancha Temple and the Sacsayhuaman fortress.
• The tour offers both morning and afternoon departure options, with hotel pickup and round-trip transportation included.
• Visitors can discover the remarkable fusion of Inca and Spanish colonial architecture at the Qoricancha Temple, once covered in gold.
• The tour also includes visits to lesser-known Inca sites, such as Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay, providing a well-rounded understanding of the region’s history.
• The tour is priced from $30 per person and features a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Cusco’s most iconic historical and archaeological sites, including the renowned Qoricancha Temple, the impressive Sacsayhuaman fortress, and several other significant Inca ruins.

Priced from $30 per person, the 6.5-hour tour is available in Spanish and English. Visitors can choose from morning or afternoon departures and enjoy the flexibility of a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

Round-trip transportation and entrance fees to the sites are included, making this an all-inclusive experience to discover Cusco’s rich cultural heritage.

Itinerary

Visitors can choose from morning (8:00 am) or afternoon (1:00 pm) start times for this immersive tour.

The tour begins with hotel pickup near Cusco’s historic center or Plaza de Armas. First, explore the Qoricancha Temple, a sacred Inca site.

Then, travel to the impressive Sacsayhuaman archaeological complex, known for its massive Inca stonework.

The impressive Sacsayhuaman archaeological complex, known for its massive Inca stonework, is a must-see on this tour.

The tour continues to Qenqo, a ceremonial center, and Puka Pukara, a reddish fortress with impressive military architecture.

Finally, visit Tambomachay, a site with stunning waterfalls referred to as the Inca’s baths.

The tour concludes with drop-off near the historic center around 6:30 pm.

Highlights of the Tour

Qoricancha, the former heart of the Inca Empire, stands as the tour’s captivating first stop.

Visitors marvel at the temple’s impressive Inca architecture, including:

• Intricate stone walls featuring precise, interlocking construction

• Striking contrast of Spanish colonial and Inca design elements

• Remnants of gold adornments that once covered the temple’s interior

• An underground chamber that was used for Inca religious ceremonies

• Preserved Inca foundations that have withstood centuries of change

From there, the tour ventures to the archaeological gem of Sacsayhuaman, renowned for its massive, jagged stone fortifications that showcase Inca ingenuity.

Qoricancha Temple

This temple, once the dazzling heart of the Inca Empire, now stands as a captivating fusion of Inca and Spanish colonial architecture.

Qoricancha, or the "Temple of the Sun," was once covered in gold and adorned with intricate sculptures. Visitors today can marvel at the stunning Inca stonework and imagine the temple’s former grandeur.

The guided tour offers insights into the temple’s history and its role as a significant religious center.

Explore the remarkable combination of Inca and Spanish styles, where Inca walls support a Renaissance-style church. This unique blend of cultures creates a truly fascinating experience.

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Sacsayhuaman Fortress

The Sacsayhuaman Fortress sits atop a hill overlooking the historic city of Cusco, its massive stone walls a testament to the Inca’s impressive architectural and engineering prowess.

Visitors are awestruck by the fortress’s scale and intricacy:

• Towering limestone blocks, some weighing up to 200 tons, are meticulously fitted without mortar.

• Zig-zagging walls create a formidable defensive structure.

• Panoramic views of Cusco and the surrounding Andes mountains captivate the senses.

• Ceremonial plazas and staircases hint at the fortress’s ceremonial and religious significance.

• Guided tours unravel the site’s history and connection to Inca culture.

Other Archaeological Sites

While Sacsayhuaman steals the spotlight, the tour also visits several other fascinating archaeological sites around Cusco.

Qenqo, for instance, is a ceremonial center built on limestone formations, offering a glimpse into Inca rituals.

Qenqo, a ceremonial center built on limestone formations, offers a glimpse into Inca rituals.

Puka Pukara, a reddish fortress, showcases the Inca’s impressive military architecture.

And Tambomachay, known for its impressive waterfalls, was once referred to as the "baths of the Inca."

Together, these lesser-known sites provide a well-rounded exploration of the region’s rich history and cultural heritage, complementing the tour’s main attraction at Sacsayhuaman.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes pick-up and round-trip transportation, as well as a professional tour guide who can provide commentary in both English and Spanish.

The package covers admission fees to key sites like Qoricancha (S/20.00) and a partial entrance ticket (S/70) for Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay.

However, it excludes:

• Water

• Snacks

• Meals (breakfast, lunch)

• Personal medication

• Motion sickness prevention

Travelers should come prepared with their passport/ID, comfortable attire, sun protection, and any necessary personal items to make the most of this comprehensive Cusco tour.

Practical Tips and Recommendations

To make the most of this comprehensive Cusco tour, travelers should come prepared with their passport or ID card, comfortable shoes, clothing, and outdoor gear suitable for the day’s activities.

Prepare for a Cusco tour with passport, comfortable shoes, suitable clothing, and outdoor gear to make the most of the experience.

Don’t forget sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen to protect against the Andean sun. Bringing a camera is a must to capture the stunning Inca architecture and landscapes.

Having some cash on hand is advisable for potential purchases or incidental expenses.

Finally, packing snacks, drinks, and any necessary personal medications or motion sickness prevention can enhance the overall experience.

Things To Know

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?

The tour itinerary can be customized to the customer’s preferences. Travelers can communicate their interests and requests to the tour operator, who’ll work to accommodate them within the tour’s structure and duration.

Are There Any Discounts or Group Rates Available?

The tour company doesn’t advertise any discounts or group rates for this specific tour. However, they may be willing to provide a discount for larger groups or offer package deals if you inquire about customizing the itinerary to your preferences.

Will There Be Opportunities to Purchase Souvenirs During the Tour?

Yes, there’ll be chances to buy souvenirs during the tour. Visitors can browse local handicrafts and traditional goods at various stops along the way, such as the Qoricancha Temple and Sacsayhuaman archaeological site.

Can I Request a Private Tour Guide Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, you can request a private tour guide for this excursion. The tour operator offers both group and private tours, allowing you to customize the experience to your preferences and needs. Private tours provide more personalized attention from the guide.

How Do I Communicate Special Dietary Requirements to the Tour Operator?

To communicate dietary requirements, contact the tour operator directly. They’ll likely accommodate special needs if notified in advance. Simply explain your restrictions and they can ensure appropriate meals or snacks are provided during the tour.

Sum Up

Enjoy the captivating history of Cusco on this comprehensive tour. Witness the stunning Qoricancha Temple and the impressive Sacsayhuaman fortress, where the Inca’s architectural genius shines through. With convenient hotel pickup, transportation, and entrance fees included, it’s the perfect way to uncover the remarkable stories behind these ancient sites. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the heart of the Inca Empire.

You can check availability for your dates here: