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Cusco, PUCA PUCARA, Qoricancha
Discover the magic of Cusco, one of the most fascinating cities in South America and the former capital of the Inca Empire. On our Cusco City Tour, you will explore colonial plazas, sacred temples, and impressive fortresses steeped in history. Visit the imposing Qorikancha, or Temple of the Sun, the majestic Cusco Cathedral, and the remarkable archaeological sites of Tambomachay, Puca Pucara, Qenqo, and Sacsayhuamán.
Perfect for your first day in the city, this itinerary blends history, culture, and architecture into a memorable journey that connects you with the very essence of Cusco.
After choosing your preferred time slot (morning or afternoon), we will pick up the group directly from your accommodation and take you to the Temple of the Sun, or Qorikancha. This remarkable site is known for its precise stone construction, as well as its splendid gardens and fountains. Next, we will visit the Sacsayhuamán Archaeological Complex. This site stands out for its impressive architecture, featuring massive stone blocks up to 5 meters tall, seamlessly integrated with the natural landscape. Located 3 kilometers from Cusco’s city center (at 3,700 m / 12,139 ft of altitude), it offers unparalleled panoramic views of the city.
We will continue our tour to the Inca Sanctuary of Qenqo, whose name means "labyrinth." Here, you'll have the opportunity to explore the ruins of the complex, including the Intiwatana (Astronomical Observatory), underground galleries, and an amphitheater.
Pucapucara, known as the "Red Fortress," was an important checkpoint regulating the entry and exit of visitors to the Sacred Valley.
Our last stop will be at Tambomachay, the Temple of Water, which served as a space for spiritual retreat and ceremonial baths.
The tour ends in the Historic Center.
Morning shift: from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Afternoon shift: from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Qorikancha, also known as the Golden Temple, is one of the most significant religious sites of the Inca Empire, dedicated to the sun god Inti. Its name in Quechua, "Qorikancha," translates to "golden courtyard," referring to its impressive gold plating and the numerous golden artifacts it housed, making it one of the empire’s most lavish and important buildings.
When the Spanish conquerors arrived in the 16th century, they looted the gold and built the Church of the Santo Domingo Convent on the ruins of the temple. Today, visitors can explore the church and view the remaining structures of the ancient Inca temple.
Sacsayhuamán, sometimes spelled Saqsaywaman, is a formidable fortress complex situated in the hills surrounding Cusco, Peru. It is believed to have been built during the reign of Inca emperor Pachacuti in the 15th century and is one of the region’s most impressive archaeological sites.
The complex consists of massive stone walls, some of which reach up to 18 meters (59 feet) in height and weigh over 300 tons. These walls are made of enormous limestone and granite blocks, fitted together with remarkable precision without the use of mortar.
Sacsayhuamán served both a defensive and ceremonial role and was crucial in the protection of the Inca Empire during the Spanish conquest of the 16th century.
Q'enqo, also known as Kenko or Qenqo, is a notable limestone outcrop that has been carved into an intricate network of tunnels, channels, and chambers. One of its most remarkable features is a large amphitheater, believed to have been used for religious ceremonies and sacrifices.
The site also features a series of channels and carvings, including a stone table believed to have been used for ceremonial rituals. The carvings at Q'enqo likely played an important role in astronomical observation and astrology within the Inca worldview.
Puka Pukara stands on a hill overlooking the Cusco valley and is believed to have played a key role as a military fortress and administrative center in the Inca Empire. Its name, "Red Fortress" in Quechua, refers to the red limestone walls that make up the site.
The complex is composed of a series of stone structures, including walls, terraces, and buildings. The red limestone constructions suggest the site served as an important operations center, with facilities for military personnel, administrative offices, and storage.
At the heart of the site is a large central plaza, surrounded by smaller buildings. Some of these structures have been restored, allowing visitors to glimpse how they appeared during the height of the Inca Empire.
Tambomachay, located approximately 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) from Cusco, is an Inca archaeological site nestled in a hidden valley. This place is recognized for its connection to water rituals and fertility.
The complex consists of a series of aqueducts, channels, and waterfalls that feed into several small pools. These installations were designed to redirect water from nearby springs for the Inca elite, facilitating purification rituals and ceremonial baths.
In addition to its hydraulic systems, Tambomachay features various buildings, such as platforms, niches, and chambers. Built from stone, these structures were used for ceremonial purposes and are adorned with sculptures and carvings representing water elements, such as waves and fish.
Tour in shared service.
This group service means that you will take the tour with other people, this standard service is done with a group between 12 to 18 people, we have confirmed departures for every day, so if it is only one or two people, don't worry, they can join to one of our groups.
From: $48 USD
Tour in private service.
This service is an exclusive way to make this trip where the service is much more personalized, prices vary according to the number of people in your group. Please consult: WhatsApp +51 914201334
The Cusco City Tour is a half-day excursion that allows visitors to explore the historic center of Cusco and nearby Inca sites. This tour is ideal for acclimatizing to the altitude.
The highlights of the Cusco City Tour include visits to the historic center of Cusco, the impressive Coricancha Temple, the monumental Sacsayhuamán fortress, and other important Inca sites. This tour provides an immersion into the region’s rich history and culture, showcasing historical and archaeological monuments that represent the splendor of the Inca Empire.
Yes, you can do the City Tour on the first day of your trip. It is an excellent way to acclimatize to the altitude and familiarize yourself with Cusco's rich history and culture before exploring other attractions in the region.
The Cusco City Tour lasts approximately 5 hours. It is a half-day excursion that allows visitors to explore the historic center of Cusco and nearby Inca sites, offering a comprehensive experience in a short amount of time.
For the Cusco City Tour, bring warm clothing, waterproof gear, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a camera, and a water bottle. It's important to be prepared for weather changes and walking on uneven terrain. These items ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience while exploring the historical and archaeological sites.
The City Tour can be done year-round.
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