About this experience
You will start the tour of Sacsayhuamán, one of the emblematic buildings of the Incas (declared Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO) erected in the fifteenth century. It is an immense fortress built with large stones whose transfer and carving is still a mystery. Return to the city and visit the neighbourhood of San Blas, originally inhabited by the Inca nobility. Today it is a conglomerate of beautiful cobbled streets and popular among artisans. Then, visit the Cathedral located in the Main Square. Its construction began in 1560. Thousands of stones were extracted and transported from the Sacsayhuaman fortress. Then, visit the hurch of La Merced, a masterpiece of modern baroque style. Marvel at its beautiful interior courtyard, carved wooden ceilings and imposing altars. Finally yo will visit Coricancha, also known as ´The Temple of the Sun´ (QuriKancha; golden temple). Upon the arrival of the Spanish, it became the basis for the construction of the Santo Domingo Convent.
At a glance
- Duration: 4 hr 15 min
- Private experience
Plan your experience
Set aside 4 hr 15 min for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Local guides to help you plan
San Blas Cusco Travel Guide
Plan a thoughtful walk through San Blas, the hillside neighborhood above central Cusco. This guide covers the uphill route, San Blas Temple, altitude, accessibility, timing, costs, and practical ways to explore without r
Sacsayhuaman Guide for First Timers
Plan a first visit to Sacsayhuaman with practical guidance on current hours, Cusco Tourist Ticket options, routes from central Cusco, accessibility, site rules, and combining the nearby archaeological sites.
Cusco Cathedral Guide
Plan a rewarding visit to Cusco Cathedral with its key artworks, ticket options, visiting advice, worship etiquette, and accessibility considerations.
What is included
- Pickup and drop-off.
- Admissions to Cusco Cathedral, Coricancha and La Merced Church.
- Professional bilingual tour guide (English and Spanish).
Not included
- Cusco Tourist ticket (BTC).
- Personal expenses.
- Gratuities.
- Snacks and beverages.
Itinerary and highlights
Sacsayhuamán is one of the most incredible buildings in the world. It began to be built during the Inca Pachacutec government in the XV century. Approximately more than 20 thousand men extracted the stones from the nearby quarries and transferred them 20 kilometers to the hill in the city of Cusco.
San Blas, it's a traditional neighborhood. Handicraft shops as well as workshops of the most famous artisans of Cusco are located at San Blas. It is famous for its beautiful cobbled streets and white houses.
The Cusco Cathedral has countless works from the Cusqueña school, combining the styles of European devotional painting of the 17th century, with the symbolism of indigenous artists from the Andes of Cusco.
The construction of the Church of La Merced began in the year 1535, when the first mercenaries began the construction of their houses and temple. In 1650, an earthquake destroyed the building, leaving only a part of the temple. In 1671, the work was completed. In it you can see majestic works of art, architecture and canvases of excellent artistic quality. The mural painting of Father Salamanca's cell stands out, as well as the Custody made of gold and decorated with precious stones.
This place is also known as "The Temple of the Sun"(QuriKancha: golden temple). Upon the arrival of the Spanish, it became the basis for the construction of the Santo Domingo Convent.
Meeting and pickup information
- Pick-up from hotels located at Cusco Historic Center.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Spanish — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- LimaTours
Accessibility and practical details
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- It is important to inform us the name of the hotel where you are staying to coordinate your activity.
- Children must be accompanied by an adult.
- Rates do not apply for Peruvians or foreign passengers whose stay exceeded 60 days in Peru because sales taxes are not included in the above total and, if applicable, will be collected by the local operator.
- To visit Sacsayhuaman it is important that you acquire your Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTC).
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
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