About this experience
magnificent Inca fortress of Sacsayhuamán, where massive stone walls showcase the genius of ancient engineering. Continue to Qenqo, a sacred site filled with fascinating rock carvings and spiritual symbolism.
Next, visit Puka Pukara, the “Red Fortress,” and admire its strategic views of the Andean landscape. At Tambomachay, learn about the Incas’ advanced hydraulic systems, known as the Temple of Water. Finally, step inside the Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), where Inca stonework meets Spanish colonial architecture, a perfect fusion of two great cultures.
This half day private experience blends history, archaeology, and culture, offering personalized service, flexibility, and expert local insight.
At a glance
- Duration: 4 hr–5 hr
- Private experience
Plan your experience
Set aside 4 hr–5 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What is included
- Personalized assistance throughout the entire tour.
- Pick up and drop off at your hotel in private tourist transport.
- Professional bilingual guide (Spanish and English, private service).
- Flexible time at each stop for photos and exploration.
- Comfortable tourist transport with a professional driver
- Entrance to Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun)
Not included
- Personal expenses and any services not mentioned
- Tips for driver and guide (optional)
- Meals not mentioned
Itinerary and highlights
Hotel Pickup
The tour begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel in Cusco. From here, we head to the first and most iconic archaeological site just outside the city.
Visit to Sacsayhuamán
Our first stop is the majestic Sacsayhuamán, a monumental Inca fortress known for its massive stone walls, with rocks weighing over 100 tons. Learn about its historical significance and the role it played during the reign of the great Inca ruler Pachacútec and his son Túpac Inca Yupanqui.
xplore Qenqo
A short 10 minute drive brings us to Qenqo, a religious site carved directly into rock. Here you’ll discover ceremonial altars and underground chambers believed to have been used for rituals in honor of Inca deities.
Discover Puka Pukara
Next, we visit Puka Pukara, known as the “Red Fortress” due to the reddish hue of its stones. This military outpost served as a control point and resting place for travelers during Inca times.
Visit Tambomachay – The Temple of Water
Nearby is Tambomachay, a beautiful site famous for its sophisticated hydraulic system. Admire the intricate stonework and flowing fountains, which may have had ceremonial or ritualistic significance related to water worship.
Qoricancha – The Temple of the Sun
We then return to the city to visit the revered Qoricancha, or Temple of the Sun. Once the most sacred temple of the Inca Empire, its walls were once covered in sheets of gold. Today, it remains a stunning blend of Inca and Spanish colonial architecture, as the Santo Domingo Convent was built atop its foundations.
Return to Your Hotel
After exploring all the main sites, our tour concludes with transportation back to your hotel.
Meeting and pickup information
- We offer pickup directly from your hotel within the city. Please be ready in the hotel lobby 15 minutes before the scheduled pickup time. Make sure to provide your hotel name and address when booking so we can arrange the pickup accordingly.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Spanish — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Xplor Machu Picchu
Meeting points and locations
Accessibility and practical details
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
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