This half-day tour is perfect for those who wish to explore the best of Cusco and its surroundings in a limited time, offering a complete overview of its Inca and colonial heritage. Ideal for the first day of your arrival, this tour provides a wonderful introduction to the historical and cultural treasures of Cusco. Our agency organizes this tour every afternoon, ensuring you can comfortably acclimate and enjoy the sights.
Afternoon City Tour Itinerary
1:00 PM - Hotel Pickup
You will be picked up from your hotel at 1:00 PM. Our friendly and knowledgeable guide will greet you and provide a brief overview of the tour itinerary.
1:15 PM - Plaza de Armas
Begin your guided tour in the heart of Cusco at the Plaza de Armas. This vibrant square, surrounded by colonial arcades, churches, and shops, has been the focal point of the city since Inca times. Your guide will share fascinating stories about the square's historical significance and its role in both Inca and Spanish colonial periods.
1:45 PM - Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun)
Next, visit the Qoricancha, also known as the Temple of the Sun. This sacred Inca temple was once covered in gold and was the most important temple in the Inca Empire. Today, it is part of the Santo Domingo Convent, showcasing the blend of Inca and Spanish colonial architecture. Explore the temple ruins and learn about its religious significance and the advanced engineering techniques of the Incas.
2:30 PM - Sacsayhuaman
Leave the city center and head to the impressive ruins of Sacsayhuaman, a massive fortress overlooking Cusco. Marvel at the enormous stones, some weighing over 100 tons, that fit together so precisely without mortar. Your guide will explain the history and strategic importance of this archaeological site, as well as its role in the Inca resistance against Spanish conquest.
3:15 PM - Qenqo
Continue to Qenqo, a ceremonial site with intricate carvings and a network of underground passages. This enigmatic site was used for religious rituals and sacrifices. Explore its labyrinthine passages and learn about the symbolic significance of its carvings and structures.
3:45 PM - Puca Pucara
Visit Puca Pucara, a small fortress that served as a military outpost and checkpoint on the road to the Sacred Valley. The site offers panoramic views of the surrounding valley and mountains. Your guide will discuss its strategic role in the Inca military network and its architectural features.
4:15 PM - Tambomachay
The final stop is Tambomachay, also known as the "Bath of the Inca." This site is renowned for its finely crafted aqueducts, canals, and waterfalls that demonstrate the Incas' advanced hydraulic engineering. Learn about the ceremonial functions of this site and its significance in Inca society.
5:30 PM - Return to Cusco
After exploring these remarkable sites, return to Cusco, arriving back in the city around 6:00 PM. Reflect on the rich history and cultural heritage you have experienced throughout the afternoon.