FULL DAY SIGHTSEEING OF THE INCA CITY OF CUSCO
OVERVIEW:
Discover the Inca City of Cusco on a complete full-day sightseeing experience combining the city’s historic center, traditional neighborhoods, local markets, panoramic viewpoints, and the most important Inca archaeological sites near Cusco.
Explore the historic Plaza de Armas and visit Cusco Cathedral, admire the remarkable Inca stonework of the famous 12-Angle Stone, and enjoy panoramic views from San Cristobal. Continue to the charming artisan neighborhood of San Blas, known for its artistic traditions, workshops, and unique Cusco-style craftsmanship.
Visit Qorikancha, the ancient Temple of the Sun and one of the most important religious centers of the Inca Empire. Then experience local life at San Pedro Market, one of Cusco’s most traditional markets, before taking a break for lunch.
In the afternoon, travel above the city to Cristo Blanco (White Christ) for spectacular views of Cusco before exploring the impressive Inca archaeological sites of Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay.
From monumental stone walls to ancient water channels, this full-day Cusco City Tour provides a deeper introduction to the history, architecture, spirituality, and living culture of Cusco.
If you only have a few hours to explore Cusco, our Classic Half-Day Cusco City Tour covers the city’s essential highlights, including Cusco Cathedral, Qorikancha, San Pedro Market, Cristo Blanco, Sacsayhuaman, and Qenko.
ITINERARY:
Cusco Cathedral and Plaza de Armas
Begin your Full-Day Cusco City Tour in the historic center of Cusco at the magnificent Plaza de Armas.
Visit Cusco Cathedral and admire its impressive colonial architecture, ornate altars, and collection of religious paintings from the famous Cusco School of Art. Your guide will explain the historical transformation of Cusco and the importance of the Plaza de Armas throughout the city’s history.
The 12-Angle Stone
Continue on foot through the historic streets of Cusco to see the famous 12-Angle Stone, an outstanding example of Inca masonry.
Admire the precision with which the stone was carved and fitted into the surrounding wall without mortar. Learn how this type of sophisticated stonework reflects the extraordinary architectural skills of the Inca civilization.
San Cristobal Viewpoint
Walk toward the San Cristobal neighborhood and enjoy beautiful panoramic views over Cusco.
From the viewpoint, take in the historic center, surrounding neighborhoods, and mountains while your guide explains the geography and historical development of the city.
San Blas – Cusco’s Artisan Neighborhood
Continue to the picturesque San Blas neighborhood, one of the most charming areas of Cusco.
Known for its artists, artisans, workshops, and traditional architecture, San Blas offers an opportunity to discover another side of the city. Explore the area’s artistic traditions, including religious artwork, carved wooden frames, mirrors, and other forms of traditional Cusco craftsmanship.
Qorikancha – Temple of the Sun
Visit Qorikancha (Coricancha), the ancient Temple of the Sun and one of the most important religious centers of the Inca Empire.
Learn about the temple’s importance to Inca religion and discover its impressive stone foundations. Your guide will explain how this sacred Inca complex was later incorporated into the colonial Santo Domingo Convent.
San Pedro Market
Continue to San Pedro Market, where you can experience the lively atmosphere of one of Cusco’s traditional local markets.
Walk through the market and discover stalls selling fresh produce, meats, grains, herbs, medicinal plants, Andean ingredients, and traditional products. This is an excellent opportunity to experience the daily life and local culture of Cusco.
Lunch Break
Take a break for lunch at a local restaurant of your choice. Lunch is not included in the tour, giving you the flexibility to choose where and what you would like to eat before continuing with the afternoon archaeological tour.
Cristo Blanco – Panoramic Views
After lunch, travel above Cusco to Cristo Blanco (White Christ).
Enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Andes Mountains. From this elevated viewpoint, appreciate the distinctive layout of Cusco and its relationship with the surrounding landscape.
Sacsayhuaman
Continue to Sacsayhuaman, one of the most impressive archaeological complexes in the Cusco region.
Marvel at the enormous stones that form its famous zigzag walls and learn about the advanced engineering and architectural techniques used by the Incas. Sacsayhuaman is one of the most remarkable examples of Inca stone construction and an essential stop on any full-day Cusco sightseeing tour.
Qenqo
Next, visit Qenqo, an ancient ceremonial site surrounded by fascinating carved rock formations.
Explore its ceremonial areas and underground passages while learning about the religious practices and rituals associated with this mysterious archaeological site.
Puka Pukara
Continue to Puka Pukara, an ancient Inca complex located along the route to the Sacred Valley.
Its strategic location and terraces, walls, and stone structures offer insight into the network of sites that protected and supported movement through the Cusco region. Enjoy the surrounding mountain scenery while learning about its role during the Inca period.
Tambomachay
The final archaeological stop is Tambomachay, an important Inca site known for its finely constructed stone channels, fountains, and water features.
Often associated with water and ceremonial activities, Tambomachay provides a fascinating example of the Incas’ sophisticated understanding of water management and hydraulic engineering.
Return to Cusco
After exploring Tambomachay and the archaeological sites surrounding Cusco, return to the city and conclude your Full-Day Cusco City Tour.
This complete experience offers a deeper look at Cusco’s Inca heritage, colonial history, traditional neighborhoods, local culture, and archaeological treasures.
Dificulty: Easy to Modernoon
Approx. 8 Hours
INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED
WHAT TO BRING
Gallery
