City Tour Cusco Half Day

Duration

Half Day

Type of tour

Historical

Difficulty

Easy

Best Time

All year round

Explore the city of Cusco on a journey filled with history and tradition. Discover its fascinating past, unique architecture, and the cultural richness that makes it an unmissable destination. Accompanied by an expert guide, immerse yourself in the essence of the ancient Inca capital and enjoy an unforgettable experience.

Cusco City Tour – Morning Option 9:00 a.m – 2:00 p.m

8:50 a.m: Pick-up from the hotel and transfer to begin the experience.
First stop at Qoricancha or Temple of the Sun, the most important religious center of the Inca Empire, famous for its flawless architecture and for once being covered in sheets of gold.
We then continue with the main archaeological complexes located on the outskirts of the city:
Sacsayhuamán, a majestic ceremonial fortress built with enormous stone blocks.
Qenqo, a mystical center associated with religious rituals and offerings to Pachamama.
Pucapucara, a military construction that functioned as a checkpoint and guard post.
Tambomachay, a site dedicated to the worship of water and purification.
The tour ends in the historic center of Cusco, near Plaza San Francisco at 2:00 p.m.

Cusco City Tour – Afternoon Option 1:00 p.m – 6:00 p.m

12:50 p.m: Pick-up from the hotel and transfer to begin the visit.
The experience starts at Qoricancha or Temple of the Sun, a symbol of the union between Inca architecture and the colonial constructions built upon it.
We then explore the main archaeological sites located in the upper part of the city:
Sacsayhuamán, an impressive complex that demonstrates the greatness of Inca engineering.
Qenqo, a ceremonial center carved in stone with ritual altars and labyrinths.
Pucapucara, a stone fortress that served as a strategic point of defense and surveillance.
Tambomachay, a set of aqueducts and fountains related to the cult of water.
The tour concludes in the historic center of Cusco, near Plaza San Francisco.

CUSCO CITY TOUR

We will begin our Cusco City Tour from the meeting point at the agreed time. The first stop will be the majestic Cusco Cathedral, an icon of religious art that houses valuable paintings from the Cusco School. Then, we will head to the Qorikancha Temple (entrance not included), where the guide will explain the astonishing Inca construction techniques, and we will have free time to take photographs.

We will continue exploring the impressive archaeological sites of Tambomachay, Puka Pukara, and Sacsayhuamán, where we will stop to learn about their history and enjoy a spectacular sunset view among their imposing stone walls.

The tour will end at Qenqo before returning to Cusco, concluding the experience after approximately 5 hours at a point near the Main Square.

¿Qué incluye?

Briefing before the tour to answer questions and provide all the details.
Small group experience, with more personalized attention.
Bilingual expert guide, specialized in history and culture.
Comfortable tourist transportation for transfers to the archaeological sites.

No incluye

Entrance to Qoricancha Temple: 20 soles (cash payment).
General Tourist Ticket valid for 10 days: 130 soles (cash payment).
- Includes: 16 attractions such as Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Pucapucara, Tambomachay, Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, Moray, Tipón, Pikillacta, and several museums in the city.
- Ideal for: travelers planning to stay several days in Cusco and visit the city, the Sacred Valley, and the Southern Valley.
Partial Tourist Ticket – valid for 1–2 days: 70 soles (cash payment).
- Includes approximately 4 sites, divided into 3 circuits:
- Circuit I (Cusco Archaeological Park): Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Pucapucara, Tambomachay.
- Circuit II (Sacred Valley): Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, Qoricancha Site Museum, Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo.
- Circuit III (Southern Valley): Tipón, Pikillacta, and Cusco museums.
  Ideal for travelers with limited time who wish to visit only one specific area.
Extra expenses
Meals

Recomendaciones

Documentation: Carry your ID card or passport with you.
Appropriate clothing: Wear comfortable and warm layered clothing, as the weather in Cusco can change suddenly.
Comfortable footwear: Choose shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain.
Sun protection: Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or cap to protect yourself from the sun.
Hydration: Bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated during the tour.
Light snacks: You may bring small snacks to recharge energy between visits.
Cash: Carry Peruvian soles for entrance fees not included and personal purchases, as some places may not accept cards.
Time for acclimatization: If you have just arrived in Cusco, rest and avoid physical exertion to adapt to the altitude before the tour.
Respect for archaeological sites: Do not touch or lean on the structures and always follow your guide’s instructions.
Punctuality: Arrive on time at the meeting point to make the most of the tour.

Enjoy this unique experience in the Navel of the World!

SHARED SERVICES PER PERSON:

02 Persons / $15.00 American dollars per person.
04 Persons / $.12.00 U.S. dollars per person.
05 or more Persons / $.09.00 American dollars per person.
DEPARTURE DAYS: Every day.

PRIVATE SERVICE (GROUP QUANTITY ACCORDING TO YOUR REQUEST) for people who want a personalized and exclusive service.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE TOURIST TICKET
GENERAL TOURIST TICKET VALID FOR 10 DAYS.

Foreign adult tourist = S/.130.00 nuevos soles
Foreign tourist student with valid ID card = s/.70.00 nuevos soles.
National adult tourist = s/.70.00 nuevos soles
National tourist student upon presentation of valid ID card = s/.40.00 nuevos soles
PARTIAL TOURIST TICKET VALID FOR 1 DAY:

Foreign adult tourist = s/.70.00 nuevos soles
Foreign tourist student no more discounts = s/.70.00 nuevos soles
National adult tourist = s/.40.00 nuevos soles
National tourist student no more discounts = s/.40.00 nuevos soles
The general tourist ticket is valid for 10 days and allows entrance to all of the Inca sites around Cusco, City Tour, the Sacred Valley, Moray and the South Valley (16 places). This is a better option if you plan to also combine the city tour, or visit any of the archaeological sites outside of the Sacred Valley in Cusco. An alternative option is to purchase a Partial Tourist Ticket for S/. 70.00 nuevos soles, this is valid for 1 day and will allow entrance to all sites on the Cusco City Tour.

Preguntas frecuentes

Where does the City Tour Cusco start and end?
The tour begins with pick-up at your hotel in Cusco (if it is located in the historic center) or at an agreed meeting point. It ends at a place near the Main Square (Plaza de Armas).
How long does the tour last?
The approximate duration of the tour is 5 hours.
What is the schedule of the City Tour Cusco?
Generally, the tour is carried out in two shifts: in the morning (9:00 a.m.) and in the afternoon (1:30 p.m.), depending on availability.
Is it necessary to book in advance?
It is recommended to book in advance, especially during high season (June – September), to ensure availability.
What is included in the tour?
Tourist transportation, professional bilingual guide (Spanish/English), and visit to the main attractions of the city.
What is not included in the tour?
Entrance fees to the archaeological sites and entrance to the Temple of Qorikancha. It is recommended to bring cash for these payments.
How much are the entrance fees to the archaeological sites?
To enter the archaeological complexes it is necessary to purchase the Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTC), which allows access to several tourist sites.
How can I buy the Cusco Tourist Ticket?
It can be purchased at the ticket office of the archaeological sites or at authorized offices within the city.
What is the best time to do the City Tour Cusco?
From April to October (dry season) is the best time, since there is less rain and the paths are in better condition.
What is the altitude of Cusco and how does it affect the tour?
Cusco is at 3,399 meters above sea level, so some people may experience altitude sickness. It is recommended to acclimatize before the tour.
How can I prevent altitude sickness?
Rest upon arrival in Cusco, drink coca tea, avoid heavy meals, and stay hydrated.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, but caution is recommended for older adults and people with health problems due to the altitude.
Can I take the tour with children?
Yes, but it is recommended to bring comfortable clothing, water, and snacks for the little ones.
Can photos be taken during the tour?
Yes, in most places it is allowed. However, in some sites, such as the Temple of Qorikancha, there may be restrictions.
What clothing and equipment should I bring?
It is recommended to wear comfortable clothing, proper shoes for walking, sunscreen, a hat, and a light jacket.
Are there restrooms available at the archaeological sites?
Yes, but in some places access to restrooms is limited and may require an additional fee.
Is the tour canceled in case of rain?
No, the tour takes place normally even on rainy days. It is recommended to bring a poncho or raincoat.
Is it mandatory to hire a guide?
Yes, to better enjoy the experience and understand the history of the sites visited, a professional guide is included in the tour.
Can the tour be done in other languages?
Generally, the tour is in Spanish and English. For other languages, a private service can be arranged at an additional cost.

CUSCO TOURIST TICKET

The Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTC) is the official pass that grants access to the main archaeological sites, museums, and cultural centers in Cusco and its surroundings. This ticket is essential for those who wish to explore the Cusco City Tour, the Sacred Valley, the South Valley, and other attractions in the region.

There are two main types of tickets: General Ticket and Partial Ticket.

GENERAL TICKET (BTG) Duration 10 days, Includes 16 attractions:

In Cusco and surroundings:

Sacsayhuamán
Qenqo
Pucapucara
Tambomachay

In the Sacred Valley:

Pisac
Ollantaytambo
Chinchero
Moray

In the South Valley:

Tipón
Pikillacta

In Cusco city:

Museum of Popular Art
Qoricancha Site Museum
Regional Historical Museum
Qosqo Center of Native Art
Pachacútec Monument

PRICES:

Foreign adult tourist: S/ 130
Foreign student (up to 25 years old, ISIC/university card): S/ 70
Peruvian adult tourist: S/ 70
Peruvian student (with valid DNI, up to 25 years old): S/ 40

Important: Ideal for travelers staying several days in Cusco and wishing to visit most attractions.

PARTIAL TICKET (BTP) Duration: 1 or 2 days (depending on the chosen circuit), Includes 3 available circuits:

Circuit I – Cusco City Tour:

Sacsayhuamán
Qenqo
Pucapucara
Tambomachay

Circuit II – Museums and South Valley:

Tipón
Pikillacta
Qoricancha Museum
Regional Historical Museum
Pachacútec Monument
Museum of Popular Art
Qosqo Center of Native Art

Circuit III – Sacred Valley:

Pisac
Ollantaytambo
Chinchero
Moray

PRICES (for any circuit):

Foreign tourist (adult or student): S/ 70 (no further discount).
Peruvian tourist (adult or student): S/ 40 (no further discount).

Important: Perfect for travelers with limited time who only plan to visit one circuit.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

The BTC does not include Machu Picchu, Cusco Cathedral, or the Qoricancha Temple (these tickets must be purchased separately).
Children under 9 years old enter free.
Students must present a valid university card (up to 25 years old) or ISIC card.
Tickets are personal and non-transferable.
Purchase is only available at COSITUC offices or authorized tourist sites.

CONCLUSION

The General Ticket is the best option for those who want to make the most of their stay in Cusco over several days.
The Partial Ticket is the most practical choice for travelers with little time or who only want to visit a specific circuit.

From: $15.00 / person

IMPORTANTE

To enjoy the full Machu Picchu experience, it is essential to book in advance, especially for Circuit 2, which is the most recommended. This tour offers the most comprehensive coverage of the citadel, combining breathtaking panoramic views with the most important archaeological sites.