Cusco City Tour Half Day
The Cusco City Tour Half Day with a local English-speaking guide is one of the best tours in Cusco to gain a complete introduction to the Inca civilization.
Cusco, the ancient capital of the Incas, is the gateway to the wonder of the world Machu Picchu and the historic Sacred Valley of the Incas. Located at 3399 meters above sea level, this colonial city has much to offer its visitors. There are numerous Inca ruins within and around the city. Some remarkable sites display a perfect blend of Inca and colonial architecture, such as the Temple of Qorikancha.
The city of Cusco was developed during the reign of the ninth Sapa Inca, Pachacútec. He was also responsible for the construction of Machu Picchu and Choquequirao. When the Spanish took control, they demolished many of the Inca sites and built churches over them. In some cases, they preserved the original foundations.
Our Cusco City Tour Half Day offers an excellent introduction to the Inca civilization. The tour begins at the Cusco Cathedral, which was once an Inca royal palace. You will then visit the Temple of Qorikancha. After the Spanish invasion, the temple was demolished and replaced with the Temple of Santo Domingo.
Afterward, you will visit the four most emblematic ruins located on the outskirts of the city of Cusco: Sacsayhuamán, Q’enqo, Tambomachay, and Puca Pucara. Each of these sites played an important role in the lives of the Incas, and our local guide will explain their significance during the tour.
We offer both group and private tours for this Cusco City Tour Half Day.
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Half Day
Cultural
Easy
Cusco
12 people
Detailed Itinerary
Cusco City Tour Half Day
Cusco Cathedral
We will begin the Cusco City Tour at the Cusco Cathedral. The Cathedral was built on the remains of an ancient Inca palace. Here, we will visit the altars and the impressive paintings found inside the cathedral.
Qorikancha
Just a few blocks from the Cusco Cathedral is the Temple of the Sun or Qorikancha. This was one of the most sacred sites for the Incas. The temple courtyard once featured numerous statues made of gold. Our guide will explain the history of the temple and how the Spanish occupation transformed the structure of this important Inca site.
Sacsayhuamán
Next, we will transfer you in our private transportation to Sacsayhuamán. This enormous Inca fortress is located on a hill overlooking the city of Cusco. It was built by Pachacútec. The site is famous for its massive stones, some weighing more than 100 tons. The Incas did not use mortar; instead, they carved the stones with great precision so they fit together perfectly.
Q’enqo
We will continue with a visit to the archaeological complex of Q’enqo. This was an important ceremonial center during the Inca civilization. In this place, the Incas performed sacrifices and mummifications.
Tambomachay
Tambomachay was a place intended for the rest of the Inca political elite. Here, there are several channels connected to nearby natural springs. Despite having been built centuries ago, these channels continue to function to this day.
Puca Pucara
Finally, we will visit Puca Pucara. Its name in Quechua means “Red Fortress.” From this location, the Incas protected the city of Cusco. The site receives this name due to the reddish color of the stones used in its construction, especially visible at sunset with the reflection of the sun.
After visiting Puca Pucara, we will transfer you back to the city of Cusco.
Inclusions
What's included
- Transportation
- Tour Guide
What's not included
- Admission to Qorikancha: 15 soles
- Tourist pass for archaeological sites: $23 per person
- Personal expenses
Packing List
We recommend that you bring essential items so you can comfortably enjoy the Half-Day Cusco City Tour.
- Reusable water bottle
- Cash
- Passport or ID
- Snacks
Frequently Asked Questions
Resolve the most common questions about the Cusco City Tour Half Day and get ready to discover the main historical and archaeological sites of the ancient Inca capital.
Is the Cusco City Tour Half Day recommended for first-time visitors to Cusco?
Yes. This tour is an excellent option for those who want a complete introduction to Inca history and culture. The tour includes some of the most important sites in Cusco and its surroundings.
What archaeological sites are visited during the tour?
Do I need to purchase additional entrance tickets for the tourist sites?
Does the tour include transportation between the archaeological sites?
What is the importance of Qorikancha in Inca culture?
What makes Sacsayhuamán special?
Is it necessary to carry personal documents during the tour?
What type of weather can I expect during the Cusco City Tour?
Can the Cusco City Tour be done as a private service?
Feel free to call us. We’re a team of experts and would be happy to speak with you.
- +51 970 409 091
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