Join our half-day Premium Cusco City Tour to see the best of the old Capital of the Incan empire. Walk through the lively Cusco city center and see Coricancha, a history-filled place. Visit the ancient fortress of Sacsayhuaman and the mysterious site of Quenqo. Check out the old guard post of Puca Pucara and the ritual baths at Tambomachay. End your tour with a beautiful view of Cusco from Cristo Blanco. This tour offers a fun and educational experience, showcasing Cusco's rich culture and beautiful scenery, perfect for creating lasting memories.

Tour details

Duration
4 hours
Activities
Walking tour - Cultural
Difficulty
Easy
Maximum Altitude
3574 m / 11725 ft
Destination
Cusco - Sacsayhuaman
Group Size
Private tour
Overview

Prepare for an incredible journey through Cusco's rich history and culture with our Private Cusco City Half-Day Tour. Wander through the ancient streets of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

You'll visit the Plaza de Armas, the central square where old buildings mingle with towering mountains. Our guides will regale you with thrilling tales of the Inca people and Spanish explorers.

But the adventure doesn't stop there. We'll escort you to Qoricancha, the Great Inca Temple, Sacsayhuamán, an ancient Inca fortress with colossal stone walls and stunning mountain vistas, Quenqo to explore the labyrinthine passages, Pucapucara to relish the fantastic views of the fortress, and Tambomachay to discover the hidden Inca Baths. You'll also uncover hidden gems around Cusco, like vibrant markets and quaint craft shops where local artists showcase their work.

Join us for an unforgettable half-day excursion. Whether you're passionate about history and nature or simply enjoy exploring new places, our Cusco City Half-Day Tour is tailored just for you. Let's create cherished memories together in Cusco!

Highlights

  • Admire the ancient architecture at Cusco's Plaza.
  • Explore the Coricancha Inca Temple and delve into Inca history.
  • Tour Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay.
  • Private all-inclusive package with entrance tickets, a guide, and transportation.

Cusco City Tour at a Glance

During our exclusive Half-Day Cusco City Tour, you will explore the best of Cusco and its surroundings, including:

  • Plaza de Armas of Cusco: Explore the heart of Cusco, surrounded by historic buildings and a lively atmosphere.
  • 12 Angled Stone Street: A marvel of Inca craftsmanship, featuring precisely carved stones in a narrow cobblestone street.
  • Loreto Street: A charming, picturesque street lined with colorful colonial buildings, cafes, and artisan shops.
  • Koricancha and Santo Domingo Church: This complex combines Inca and Spanish architecture, showcasing the revered Temple of the Sun and the colonial church.
  • Sacsayhuaman: Majestic Inca ruins with massive stone walls and panoramic views over Cusco.
  • Qenqo: An ancient ceremonial site with carved altars and labyrinthine passages.
  • Puca Pucara: A fortress-like structure offering insight into ancient Inca defensive strategies.
  • Tambomachay: Serene site with stone fountains and aqueducts, believed to have been used for spiritual purification rituals.
  • Cristo Blanco: A serene monument overlooking Cusco, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.

Important to know before booking:

  • Everyday departure in private tours
  • Morning and afternoon tours at your preferred times
  • Group departures are also available; contact us.
Full Itinerary
Full Itinerary

Our half-day Cusco City Tour starts at 9:oo am or 1:00 PM, with a pick-up from your hotel located near the center of Cusco. We will explore the Plaza de Armas, a historic square surrounded by beautiful buildings that are full of energy. We'll walk around the Cathedral, enjoy the atmosphere, and learn about the important role this plaza has played in Cusco's history.

From the plaza, we'll head to the famous 12 Angled Stone Street. This narrow street showcases Inca stonework, featuring a stone with 12 perfect angles, showing the incredible skills of the Inca builders. After admiring this unique stone, we'll continue to Loreto Street. This charming street is lined with colorful buildings, cafes, and shops where we can see a mix of history and modern life.

Next, we'll visit the Coricancha Temple. Here, we'll see the combination of Inca and Spanish colonial architecture. The Temple of the Sun, once the most important temple for the Incas, and the Santo Domingo Church, built on top of its ruins, show a fascinating blend of cultures.

A short drive will take us to Sacsayhuaman, an impressive Inca fortress with huge stone walls. From here, we'll have a fantastic view over Cusco and learn about its historical significance.

Our journey continues to Qenqo, an ancient ceremonial site with carved altars and winding passages. This site provides insight into the Incas' spiritual practices. After exploring Qenqo, we'll visit Puca Pucara, a small fortress that offers a glimpse into the Incas' defensive strategies.

Next, we'll stop at Tambomachay, a peaceful site with stone fountains and aqueducts, believed to be used for spiritual purification. This serene spot allows for a moment of reflection.

Finally, our tour ends at Cristo Blanco, a giant white statue of Christ that overlooks Cusco. From this viewpoint, we can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains.

By 5:30 PM, we'll have experienced Cusco's rich history, culture, and beauty, making this half-day tour memorable and enriching.

Included: 

  • Entrance ticket to Koricancha
  • Entrance ticket to Sacsayhuaman
  • Entrance ticket to Quenqo
  • Entrance ticket to Tambomachay
  • Entrance ticket to Pucapucara
  • Explore the Cristo Blanco
  • Modern Transportation with AC
  • Exclusive professional tour guide
  • Private Service

Not Included:

  • Entrance to Cathedral (optional)
  • Meals, water
  • Gratuities
FAQs

What is included in a typical Cusco City Tour?

Ultimate Trekking Cusco City Tours include visits to the most important historical and cultural sites such as the Plaza de Armas, Coricancha (the Temple of the Sun), the impressive Sacsayhuaman fortress, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay. These tours offer a comprehensive overview of Cusco's rich history and culture.

How long does a Cusco City Tour usually last?

Our Exclusive Ultimate Cusco City Tours last around 4-5 hours. This duration allows you to explore the main attractions without feeling rushed, providing a balanced mix of sightseeing and leisure.

Can I book a private Cusco City Tour?

Yes, you can book a private Cusco City Tour with Ultimate Trekking for a more personalized experience. Private tours can be tailored to your interests and pace, making them a great option if you prefer a customized itinerary.

What are the highlights of the Ultimate city tour in Cusco?

Our Ultimate city tour in Cusco includes the bustling Plaza de Armas, the historic Coricancha complex, and the impressive Sacsayhuaman fortress with its massive stone walls and stunning views over the city. Each site offers a unique glimpse into Cusco's rich past and architectural brilliance.

What is the best time of day to take a Cusco City Tour?

Morning or early afternoon is ideal for a Cusco City Tour to avoid the crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos. Starting early also allows you to make the most of your day by leaving time for additional activities or relaxation later. At Ultimate Trekking, we prefer afternoon tours to enjoy the sunset from the upper part of Cusco City. 

Is there a city tour of Cusco available in English?

Yes, city tours of Cusco with Ultimate Trekking are available in English and Spanish, making it easier for non-Spanish speakers to fully understand and appreciate the historical and cultural significance of the sites visited.

How can I book a city tour en Cusco?

You can book a city tour in Cusco at our office, and you can also book in advance online. If you prefer a Private city tour of Cusco, we recommend contacting us to send you a special price. 

What should I wear on a Cusco City Tour?

During the Cusco city tour, you will participate in short hikes. For this, you will need a small and comfortable backpack to carry all the essentials for the tour. Remember that the weather in Cusco is unpredictable, so it’s important to wear a layering system and always have clothes suitable for warm, cold, and rainy weather.

Essential Items:

  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Lightweight sweater or fleece
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket
  • Wide-brimmed hat or cap
  • Sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen
  • Umbrella or rain poncho
  • Water bottle (1 liter).
  • Extra money for souvenirs

Additional Recommendations:

  • Snacks
  • Camera or smartphone
  • Personal medication
  • Hand sanitizer and tissues

By being prepared with these essentials, you’ll be able to fully enjoy your Cusco city tour, regardless of the weather conditions.

Are entrance fees included in a Cusco City Tour?

At Ultimate Trekking, we include the entrance fees to all the sites we visit. This includes Coricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay.

What is the saqsaywaman entrance fee?

The entrance fee to Sacsayhuaman cannot be bought separately; it is included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket, which covers multiple sites. There are two different types of tickets: the full ticket and the half ticket.

  • The Full Ticket: This ticket includes sites around Cusco and the Sacred Valley. It costs 130 soles per person and is valid for 10 days.
  • The Half Ticket: This ticket is valid only for visiting sites near Cusco, including Sacsayhuaman. It costs 70 soles per person and is valid for 2 days.

Can I take a city tour in Cusco during the rainy season?

Yes, city tours operate year-round, but be prepared for rain from November to March. Bringing a rain jacket or umbrella can help you stay dry and comfortable during your tour.

What languages are available for tours en Cusco Peru?

Tours in Cusco, Peru, are available in Spanish, English, and sometimes other languages like French or German, only in Private tours. At Ultimate Trekking, we offer multilingual guides to cater to a diverse range of visitors.

Is the Cusco City Tour suitable for children?

Yes, the tour is family-friendly, but keep in mind the altitude and amount of walking involved. To ensure that everyone enjoys the experience, it’s a good idea to bring snacks and water and take breaks as needed.

What can I see in downtown Cusco during a city tour?

In downtown Cusco, you can see historic buildings, local markets, and cultural sites like the Coricancha and Plaza de Armas. The vibrant city center offers a rich mix of history, culture, and modern life.

Are there any city tours Cusco that include a visit to Cristo Blanco?

Yes, Ultimate Trekking Cusco city tours include a visit to Cristo Blanco, a giant white statue of Christ that overlooks the city. This site offers stunning panoramic views of Cusco and is a great spot for photos.

What is the cost of a typical city tour Cusco?

Prices vary, but a standard city tour to Cusco can range from $90 to $120 per person. The cost often depends on the inclusions such as entrance fees, transportation, and guide services.

Do tours from Cusco include other nearby attractions?

Yes, many tours from Cusco include nearby attractions like the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. These extended tours offer a deeper exploration of the region’s rich history and stunning landscapes.

What makes a tour to Cusco special?

A tour to Cusco is special because it combines rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture in one of Peru’s most important cities. The blend of Inca and Spanish influences creates a unique and fascinating destination.

Is it possible to customize a city tour in Cusco?

Yes, we offer customizable tours to fit your interests and schedule. You can work with one of our Travel experts to create an itinerary that focuses on the sites and experiences that interest you most.

Are refreshments or food included in a half-day Cusco City Tour?

Meals or drinks are not included, so it’s a good idea to bring water and snacks. Staying hydrated is important, especially given Cusco’s high altitude.

How much walking is involved in a Cusco City Tour?

Be prepared for moderate walking, as you will be exploring several sites within the city and its surroundings. Comfortable shoes and regular breaks will help you enjoy the tour without discomfort.

Can I find tours en Cusco - Peru that cater to seniors?

Yes, there are tours in Cusco, Peru, designed for seniors. These tours have a slower pace and minimal walking and are tailored to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for older travelers.

Do city tours en Cusco provide hotel pickup?

We offer hotel pickup for your convenience from centrally located hotels. If your hotel is outside of the city center, you will be requested to meet the tour guide at the Plaza de Armas in Cusco.

What is the main attraction of a Cusco city tour?

The main attraction of a Cusco city tour is often Sacsayhuaman, with its massive stone walls and stunning views. This site is a highlight due to its impressive construction and historical significance.

Are there any evening city tours in Cusco?

Yes, At Ultimate Trekking we offer evening city tours to see Cusco’s landmarks illuminated at night. These tours provide a different perspective of the city and are ideal for those who prefer exploring after sunset.

Can I join a Cusco city tour if I arrive in Cusco on the same day?

Yes, it's best to allow some time to acclimate to the altitude before starting the tour. Taking it easy on your first day will help you adjust and avoid altitude sickness. We recommend arriving in Cusco in the early morning and then taking the half-day Cusco city tour in the afternoon.

Why should I choose a city tour en Cusco?

Choosing a city tour en Cusco is a great way to efficiently explore the city’s rich history, culture, and top attractions with the guidance of a knowledgeable local expert. These tours provide a comprehensive overview and are a fantastic introduction to Cusco’s many wonders.