CUSCO CITY TOUR

Half Day from US $ 15.00

Overview

Explore Cusco: Comprehensive City Tour Experience

Perfect for newcomers to Cusco or those looking to delve deeper into the heart of the Inca capital, our Cusco city tour offers an intimate exploration of this historic area. The adventure kicks off at 1:00 PM from our central Cusco office, followed by a short 10-minute stroll to the captivating Koricancha. Here, our knowledgeable guide will shed light on the temple’s importance, emphasizing the harmonious integration of Inca and colonial artistic elements.

From Koricancha, we’ll board our comfortable bus to journey to the magnificent Sacsayhuamán. This site is renowned for its extraordinary Inca masonry, which many consider surpassing the grandeur of Machu Picchu. Witness the incredible precision and craftsmanship that went into constructing these stone structures.

Our tour then takes us to the enigmatic Qenqo caves, historically used by the Incas for performing sacrifices and religious ceremonies. There are theories suggesting these chambers also hosted human sacrifices. Continuing on, we’ll visit Pucapucara, an Inca-built structure characterized by its distinctive red hue, which once served as a crucial strategic lookout point.

The final destination is Tambomachay, a tranquil location adorned with stunning water features where the Inca ruler once sought relaxation and meditation. After soaking in the serene atmosphere of Tambomachay, we will return to Cusco around 6:00 PM.

This engaging tour provides a thorough understanding of Cusco’s rich Inca heritage and its surrounding landmarks, making it an excellent starting point for anyone interested in the region’s history. Designed as a relaxed half-day excursion, it’s ideal for travelers with a day to spare or those needing time to acclimate to the altitude. Our reliable transportation ensures a smooth and comfortable journey between each attraction.

Highlights of the Cusco City Tour:

  • Koricancha: Experience the unique fusion of Inca and colonial artistry within this historic temple.
  • Sacsayhuamán: Be amazed by the intricate Inca stonework, often regarded as more impressive than Machu Picchu.
  • Qenqo: Discover the mysterious caves where the Incas conducted rituals and sacrifices.
  • Pucapucara: Explore this red-hued Inca structure that played a key role in strategic monitoring.
  • Tambomachay: Relax at this peaceful site featuring beautiful water sources, once a sanctuary for the Inca king.
  • Expert Guides: Gain insights from our experienced guides about the significant history and cultural importance of each location.
  • Comfortable Transport: Travel effortlessly between sites in our well-appointed vehicles.

Trip Information

Cusco City Tour Overview:

  • Starting Point: SALKANTAY TREKKERS PERU office in Cusco at 1:00 PM
  • Ending Point: Return to Cusco with hotel drop-off in the city center – Plaza Regocijo
  • Duration: Half-day tour from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM
  • Availability: Daily departures
  • Group Size: Maximum of 19 participants
  • Baggage Storage: Complimentary storage available
  • Peak Season: April to October
  • Sites Included: Koricancha, Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Pucapucara, Tambomachay

This tour is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in Cusco’s vibrant history and culture, ensuring a memorable and comfortable half-day adventure.

CUSCO CITY TOUR
Half Day from
$15.00
per person

Max Altitude
3300msnm
Trip Length
Group Size
10 People
Physical Level
Facil
Trip Style
Classic
Location
Cusco - Peru
Tour Type
Classic
Meals
0 B, 0 D, 0 L
Departures
Daily Departures
LODGING TYPE
No Included

SELECT YOUR TRAVEL DATE

Itinerary

DAY 01: Discovering Cusco – Koricancha, Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Pucapucara & Tambomachay

Kick off your Cusco City Tour by arriving at our office promptly at 1:00 PM. From there, embark on a leisurely 10-minute walk to the stunning Koricancha Temple. Enjoy a guided tour of approximately one hour, where your guide will delve into the history and importance of this captivating landmark.

Following Koricancha, you’ll be transported by our comfortable vehicle to Sacsayhuamán, a remarkable Inca fortress renowned for its extraordinary stone masonry. During your visit, your guide will share fascinating insights about this impressive site.

Next on the itinerary is Qenqo, an ancient location where the Incas conducted various rituals and ceremonies. Explore the mystical atmosphere of this historic site with the guidance of your knowledgeable tour leader.

After immersing yourself in the wonders of Qenqo, the journey continues to Tambomachay. This serene area is celebrated for its beautiful water features, where the Inca royalty once sought relaxation and meditation.

The final stop of the day is Pucapucara, an Inca checkpoint and control center distinguished by its red-colored architecture. Discover the strategic significance of this structure and its role in Inca governance.

Upon completing your exploration of Pucapucara, you’ll return to the heart of Cusco around 6:00 PM, concluding your enriching Cusco City Tour for the day.


Highlights of Day 01:

  • Koricancha Temple: Explore the intricate history and significance of this iconic Inca site with a guided tour.
  • Sacsayhuamán: Marvel at the extraordinary stonework of this ancient Inca fortress.
  • Qenqo: Discover the sacred grounds where the Incas performed their rituals and ceremonies.
  • Tambomachay: Enjoy the tranquil beauty of this water-rich site, once a haven for Inca royalty.
  • Pucapucara: Visit the strategically important Inca checkpoint known for its distinctive red construction.

This first day offers a comprehensive introduction to Cusco’s rich Inca heritage, ensuring a memorable and insightful experience as you explore some of the most significant historical sites in the region.

Inclusions

Included

  • Experienced English-Speaking Guides: Take advantage of our knowledgeable guides who offer in-depth information about each attraction and its historical significance, ensuring a rich and informative experience.
  • Comfortable Transportation: Travel effortlessly between all tour locations in our well-maintained, modern vehicles, providing a smooth and enjoyable journey throughout your exploration of Cusco.

No Included

  • Koricancha Entrance Fee: Admission to Koricancha is not included in the tour price and costs an additional 15 soles per person.
  • Inca Ruins Entrance Fees: Access to the four Inca ruins visited on the tour requires an additional payment of 70 soles per person. However, if you have already purchased a tourist ticket for other sites in the region, it can be used for these entrances as well.

What to Bring

  • Comfortable walking shoes: You will be walking around various sites, so ensure you have shoes that provide support and comfort.
  • Layered clothing: Cusco’s weather can vary throughout the day, so it’s essential to wear layers that can be easily added or removed as needed.
  • Sun protection: Bring sunscreen, a hat or cap, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun’s rays.
  • Water bottle: It’s essential to stay hydrated, especially at high altitudes. Bring a reusable water bottle to refill throughout the day.
  • Camera or smartphone: Capture the beautiful sites and memories during your tour.
  • Money: Bring enough cash for entrance fees, snacks, and souvenirs.
  • Rain gear: Depending on the season, it might be a good idea to bring a lightweight rain jacket or poncho in case of unexpected rain.
  • Personal documents: Carry your passport or other identification, as well as any necessary tickets or vouchers for the tour.

Prices

Group Service Price

Service Type Price per Person
Shared Group Tour $15.00 USD

Group Service Description and Features

The Shared Group Tour is a cost-effective way to experience the main sites of Cusco and the surrounding archaeological parks. This service typically includes transportation in a tourist bus and a professional bilingual guide (English and Spanish) shared among a group that can range from 14 to 18 people. It’s a great option for travelers looking for a social experience and good value.

Private Service Prices (All-Inclusive)

Number of People Price per Person (All-Inclusive)
1 Person $130.00 USD
2 Persons $95.00 USD
3 Persons $80.00 USD
4 Persons $70.00 USD
5+ Persons $65.00 USD

Advantages of a Private City Tour

A Private City Tour offers a more exclusive and personalized experience. The “All-Inclusive” service ensures that the price covers all major expenses, including all transportation, a private professional English-speaking guide, the Boleto Turístico Parcial (Partial Tourist Ticket) for the four archaeological sites (Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay), and the entrance ticket for the Koricancha Temple. The advantages include greater flexibility in itinerary pace, more direct interaction with your guide, and the comfort of private transportation.

Upgrades

Cusco Cathedral Entrance: $12.00 USD per person.

  • Importance: This upgrade allows you to visit the stunning Cusco Cathedral located in the Plaza de Armas, which is a major historical and architectural landmark not included in the standard City Tour itinerary or the Boleto Turístico.

VIP/Single-Language Guide: $20.00 USD per person (Added to Private Service).

  • Importance: This ensures your guide focuses solely on one language (e.g., English), providing a more detailed and uninterrupted explanation of the sites, often in a smaller private group setting for a more focused experience.

Lunch or Dinner: $25.00 – $40.00 USD per person (Depending on restaurant/menu).

  • Importance: Allows you to seamlessly include a meal, often featuring traditional Peruvian cuisine, as part of your day, or to conclude the tour with a pleasant dining experience without needing to arrange it separately.

Discounts

 

  • Andean Community Citizen Discount (Colombia, Ecuador, Bolivia, Peru): Citizens from the Andean Community (CAN) often receive a discount due to lower local pricing for certain services and entrance tickets, which may result in a total savings of approximately $5.00 USD to $10.00 USD off the group service price compared to the regular foreign tourist rate.

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