About this experience
Discover the most important remnants of Inca civilization on a tour that combines history, archaeology, and culture in the heart of Cusco. During this half-day tour, you'll visit major archaeological sites on the outskirts of the city and learn more about the grandeur of the Inca Empire with a guide by your side.
The route includes Qorikancha, Sacsayhuaman, Q'enqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay, plus a special stop to get an up-close look at Peruvian llamas and alpacas. Throughout the tour, your guide will share details about the history, architecture, and traditions that make Cusco one of Peru's most important cultural destinations.
At a glance
- Duration: 4 hr–5 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 4 hr–5 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Compare the available options before choosing: their itinerary, inclusions and pickup arrangements can differ. Check the price for your date and whole group.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What is included
- A bottle of water.
- Air-conditioned transportation.
- Onboard satellite internet during transport.
- Certified professional tour guide.
- Optional drop-off at your hotel in Cusco or at the Plaza de Armas on return.
- Comfortable transportation.
Not included
- Gratuities and tips, at each traveler's discretion.
- Meals and drinks not mentioned above.
- Admission tickets to the archaeological sites (Sacsayhuaman, Q'enqo, Puka Pukara and Tambomachay).
- Admission to the Temple of Santo Domingo (Qorikancha).
Itinerary and highlights
In the heart of Cusco's historic center stands Qorikancha, known as the Temple of the Sun and one of the most important religious centers of the Inca Empire. During the visit, you'll get to see its Inca stonework and observe how the space was later incorporated into the Convent of Santo Domingo.
Our next stop will be Sacsayhuaman, one of the most impressive archaeological complexes in Cusco. Its massive stones, carefully fitted together, reveal the Incas' advanced knowledge of engineering and construction.
The site is located at approximately 3,700 meters above sea level. The visit takes place at a relaxed pace, allowing you to enjoy the site and the guide's explanations.
Just a few minutes from Sacsayhuaman lies Q'enqo, an important Inca ceremonial center. The site features rock formations, passageways, and carved spaces that reveal some of the religious practices and rituals carried out by the Incas.
Continuing through the mountains, we'll arrive at Puka Pukara, an archaeological site with features resembling those of a fortress. It's believed the site served functions related to control, surveillance, and support for travelers arriving in Cusco.
Located at approximately 3,700 meters above sea level, Puka Pukara also offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
Tambomachay is one of the most fascinating examples of Inca hydraulic engineering. The complex consists of carefully built channels, aqueducts, and water fountains, showcasing the Incas' knowledge of how to make the most of natural resources.
The site is located at approximately 3,800 meters above sea level.
Before wrapping up the tour, we'll make a special stop at Granja Munay Wasi, where you can get an up-close look at some of the Andes' most iconic species, such as Peruvian llamas and alpacas.
Meeting and pickup information
- The meeting point will be at the entrance of the Temple of Santo Domingo, at the top of Qorikancha, next to the church entrance. Our guide will be waiting for you there to welcome you and begin the tour.
Languages and tickets
- Portuguese — Guide
- Spanish — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Viagens Machu Picchu
Meeting points and locations
Accessibility and practical details
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Children under 5 do not pay, as long as they do not occupy their own seat.
- We can include a child car seat upon request, subject to availability and the number of passengers in the vehicle, at an additional cost.
- Because this is a high-altitude tour, we recommend travelers pay attention to how their body is responding and move through the experience at a comfortable pace. Most of the route takes place at altitudes similar to or lower than Cusco's.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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