City Tour Cusco Half Day – Visit Qoricancha, Tambomachay & More
Qoricancha, Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puka Pukara & Tambomachay
- Duration: Half Day
- Difficulty: Easy
- Type Service: Private
Explore Cusco in Half a Day – Visit Qoricancha, Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puka Pukara & Tambomachay
Cusco, with its special beauty and charm is considered the archeological capital of South America and a cultural legacy of humanity. This half day city tour takes you to the majestic Qoricancha, the most important example of the change from Incan architecture to Spanish colonial architecture. You will also visit the four most important archeological sites in the hills above Cusco. These sites are essential in understanding the importance of Cusco during the Inca Empire.
Places you visit in our city tour
- Qoricancha, also called the Temple of the Sun
- Sacsayhuaman, the most impressive archeological site near Cusco
- Qenqo, an immense promontory where the Inca carved right into the bedrock
- Pukapukara, the Red Fortress with cryptic historical use
- Tambomachay, the most important site for water rituals
Full Itinerary
Half Day City Tour Itinerary
The tour begins with a convenient pick-up from your hotel or a central meeting point in Cusco at 07:30 or 13:00. As we explore through this vibrant city, your guide will provide an engaging introduction to Cusco’s fascinating history as the capital of the Inca Empire and its transformation during colonial times.
Our first stop is at Sacsayhuaman, an impressive Inca fortress overlooking Cusco. Known for its massive stone walls, some weighing over 100 tons, Sacsayhuaman showcases the engineering genius of the Incas. Stroll through its expansive grounds, admire the panoramic views of Cusco, and learn about its role in Inca ceremonies and battles.
A short drive takes us to Qenqo, an enigmatic archaeological site believed to have been a ceremonial center. Explore its carved rock formations, mysterious underground passages, and an altar thought to have been used for sacrifices and mummification rituals. Your guide will uncover the spiritual significance of this site.
Our journey continues to Puca Pucara, a small fortress that likely served as a military outpost and checkpoint for travelers entering Cusco. Its name, meaning “Red Fortress,” comes from the reddish hue of its stones during sunset. Enjoy the serene surroundings and learn about its strategic importance in Inca times.
Next is Tambomachay, often referred to as the Inca “Baths” or Water Temple. This site is known for its aqueducts, canals, and waterfalls, which continue to flow with crystal-clear water. Tambomachay is thought to have been a place of worship for water and a royal retreat for Inca leaders.
The final stop is at Qoricancha, once the most important temple in the Inca Empire, dedicated to Inti, the Sun God. Though much of it was destroyed during the Spanish conquest, remnants of its masterful stonework remain, blending seamlessly with the colonial Convent of Santo Domingo built atop it. Your guide will explain the temple’s significance and its architectural brilliance.
For those who opt for it, the tour includes a visit to the majestic Cusco Cathedral in the Plaza de Armas. This colonial masterpiece houses an incredible collection of religious art, intricate woodwork, and relics, blending Catholic traditions with indigenous influences.
After a day immersed in history and culture, the tour concludes with a drop-off at your hotel or a central location in Cusco.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
Included
- Pick-up and drop off at your hotel in Cusco
- Private transport around Cusco city
- Professional English/Spanish speaking tour guide
- Entrance to Qoricancha, Sacsayhuamán & Q’enqo
Not Included
- Food, drinks and snacks
Prices
Private Cusco City Tour – Pricing Options
-
(Groups of 2 to 3 people)
- $90 per person
- All Entrance Fees Included
-
(Groups of 4 to 5 people)
- $81 per person
- All Entrance Fees Included
-
(Groups of 6 to 8 people)
- $72 per person
- All Entrance Fees Included
Packing List
Recommendations to bring
- Original passport – expiration date no less than 7 months
- Walking shoes or light shoes or tennis shoes
- Canteen water bottle as you should drink plenty of fluid on the tour
- Raincoat or long poncho during the rainy season
- Long sleeve shirts
- Long pants
- Sunscreen
- Wide-brimmed hat – UPV is strong at altitude
- Sunglasses
- Medicines and / or personal effects
- A light backpack
- Camera or phone camera
- Cash/coins – small denominations – soles & dollars
- Face mask and face shield (if preferred)
