Tour Overview
Explore Cusco’s layered history through Inca foundations, colonial architecture and living Andean culture. This guided introduction helps visitors understand the city before travelling onward to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
Historical and Cultural Background
Cusco was the capital of Tawantinsuyu and the symbolic centre of the Inca world. After the Spanish conquest, churches and colonial buildings were constructed above and alongside Inca walls, creating the distinctive cityscape visible today. Sites such as Qorikancha and the ceremonial complexes surrounding the city reveal extraordinary masonry, religious change and the resilience of Andean traditions.
Why Visit?
- Understand Cusco before exploring the wider region.
- Compare Inca masonry with colonial architecture.
- Visit major ceremonial and archaeological sites efficiently.
- Gain context from a knowledgeable local guide.
Learn more in our Cusco and Machu Picchu history guide.
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3,800 m
Cusco, once the capital of the Inca Empire, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its rich history and archaeological remains, it features a blend of Inca and colonial architecture. The city sits at an altitude of 3,400 meters, offering stunning views and a unique cultural experience. Key sites include Sacsayhuaman, an impressive fortress, and Qoricancha, the Temple of the Sun, which showcases the advanced engineering and architectural skills of the Incas.
Tour Highlights:
- Explore the ancient city of Cusco and its significant archaeological sites.
- Visit key locations such as Tambomachay, Qenqo, Sacsayhuaman, Qoricancha, and the San Pedro Market.
- Enjoy a taste of Peruvian food and a Pisco Sour in the Sacred Valley.
Highlights
- Cusco
- Tambomachay
- Qenqo
- Sacsayhuaman
- Qoricancha
- San Pedro Market
- Sacred Valley
