Private tour / Group tour

From $ 80 USD per person - Half dayCusco City Half Day

Half Day (~5.5h) Duration

Max 12 People Group Size

3,700m (12,139ft) Max Altitude

Easy Difficulty

5 Archaeological Sites Visited

English & Spanish Bilingual Guide

Entrance Fees Included

Private Transport Included

Cusco

Qoricancha

Plaza

Sacsayhuaman

Q'enqo

Puca Pucara

Tambomachay

Cusco

OVERVIEW
ITINERARY
INCLUSIONS
PACKING LIST
BEFORE YOU GO
PRICING
HOW TO BOOK

Cusco City Half Day

Discover the heart of the ancient Inca Empire on this captivating half-day tour through Cusco's most iconic sites. Begin at the magnificent Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun), the most sacred religious center of the Inca civilization, where you'll witness the remarkable fusion of impeccable Inca masonry and Spanish colonial architecture. Continue to the Plaza de Armas to admire the majestic Cathedral before venturing to the outskirts to explore the megalithic fortress of Sacsayhuaman, with its enormous limestone blocks weighing up to 120 tons. The adventure takes you through Q'enqo, a mysterious labyrinthine shrine carved into rock, Puca Pucara (the Red Fortress) which served as a military checkpoint, and finally Tambomachay, the Temple of Water with its ancient aqueducts still flowing with crystal-clear water since Inca times. This enriching afternoon journey offers the perfect introduction to Cusco's fascinating blend of pre-Columbian and colonial heritage.

Start Cusco City

End Cusco City

Style Cultural Tour

Best Time Year Round

Tour Type Half Day Tour

Min Age All Ages

Sites Visited 5 Locations

Altitude Profile

This tour takes place entirely in and around Cusco city, ranging from the historic center (3,400m) to the archaeological sites on the outskirts (up to 3,700m at Sacsayhuaman). The altitude is moderate but we recommend acclimatizing for at least one day before the tour.

masl

meters above sea level
1m = 3.28 ft

Half Day Itinerary

Exploring the Imperial City & Ancient Fortresses

Your journey begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel around 1:00 p.m., whisking you away to the heart of the city. We start at the majestic Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun), the most important religious center of the Inca Empire, where you will witness the fascinating fusion of impeccable Inca masonry and Spanish colonial architecture.

Depending on the specific flow of the day, we may also admire the exterior majesty of the Cathedral at the Plaza de Armas, absorbing the vibrant atmosphere of Cusco's main square before ascending to explore the megalithic fortress of Sacsayhuaman and other remarkable archaeological sites.

Half Day

Cusco - Qoricancha - Sacsayhuaman - Q'enqo - Puca Pucara - Tambomachay - Cusco

01:00 PM

Hotel Pickup in Cusco

Your afternoon adventure begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel in Cusco. Get comfortable in our private transport as we begin our cultural journey through the heart of the ancient Inca capital.

01:30 PM

Qoricancha - Temple of the Sun (3,400m)

Visit the majestic Qoricancha, the most important religious center of the Inca Empire. Once covered in gold and dedicated to the Sun God Inti, you'll witness the remarkable fusion of impeccable Inca masonry with Spanish colonial architecture of the Santo Domingo Church built on its foundations.

02:30 PM

Plaza de Armas & Cathedral

Admire the exterior majesty of Cusco's Cathedral at the historic Plaza de Armas. Absorb the vibrant atmosphere of Cusco's main square, surrounded by colonial arcades and balconies, while learning about the city's rich history.

03:15 PM

Sacsayhuaman Fortress (3,700m)

Ascending to the outskirts of Cusco, explore the megalithic fortress of Sacsayhuaman. Walk among gigantic limestone blocks weighing up to 120 tons, marveling at the engineering mystery of their construction. This impressive ceremonial complex offers panoramic views of the city below.

04:15 PM

Q'enqo - Ceremonial Shrine

Continue to Q'enqo, a mysterious labyrinthine shrine carved entirely into a massive limestone rock. Explore its underground chambers and zigzag channels believed to have been used for ceremonial sacrifices and rituals honoring Pachamama (Mother Earth).

04:45 PM

Puca Pucara - The Red Fortress

Visit Puca Pucara, the "Red Fortress," named for the reddish hue its stones take on at sunset. This military checkpoint and lodging point served as a control point for goods and people entering the sacred valley of the Incas.

05:15 PM

Tambomachay - Temple of Water

Arrive at our final stop, Tambomachay, known as the Temple of Water. Admire the aqueducts and canals that have carried crystal-clear water since the time of the Incas, a site dedicated to water worship and believed to have been a royal bathing complex.

06:30 PM

Return to Cusco

With the tour concluding, our transport will ensure a comfortable return to your hotel in Cusco, leaving you with the evening free to enjoy the city's nightlife, explore local restaurants, or rest after an afternoon of discovery.

What's Included?

✓

Included

Transportation

Hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco
Private/shared transport throughout the tour
Comfortable vehicle with AC

Professional Guide

Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish)
Expert knowledge of Inca history & culture
Assistance throughout the tour

Entrance Fees

Qoricancha entrance fee
Sacsayhuaman, Q'enqo, Puca Pucara, Tambomachay
All required permits included

Safety & Extras

First aid kit
Emergency oxygen
Permanent assistance

Not Included

Meals and drinks
Tips for guide and driver
Travel insurance (recommended)
Personal expenses
Cathedral interior entrance (optional)
Extra activities not in itinerary
Souvenirs and handicrafts

What to Bring

Click items to mark them as packed. Be prepared for variable weather in Cusco!

Essential Documents

Valid Passport or ID

Booking confirmation

Cash for souvenirs & extras (Soles)

Travel insurance info (optional)

Clothing & Footwear

Comfortable walking shoes

Light layers (t-shirt + jacket)

Rain jacket or poncho (Nov-Mar)

Sun hat or cap

Gear & Accessories

Water bottle (refillable)

Sunscreen (SPF 50+)

Sunglasses (UV protection)

Camera/phone for photos

Personal medications

Pro Tips

Dress in layers — afternoon weather can change from sunny to cool quickly
Wear sturdy shoes with good grip for walking on ancient stone paths
The archaeological sites have uneven terrain — avoid sandals or heels
Sunscreen is essential as UV radiation is stronger at 3,700m altitude

Before You Go

Important information to prepare for your Cusco City tour

Altitude Acclimatization

The tour reaches 3,700m (12,139ft) at Sacsayhuaman. We recommend spending at least 1-2 days in Cusco before this tour to acclimatize. Drink plenty of water, avoid heavy meals, and limit alcohol consumption.

Physical Requirements

This tour is suitable for all fitness levels. You'll walk on ancient stone paths and stairs at each archaeological site. Comfortable walking shoes with good grip are recommended. The total walking is approximately 2-3 km throughout the afternoon.

Weather & Best Time

Cusco enjoys mild weather year-round. Dry season (May-October) offers sunny afternoons. Rainy season (November-April) may have late afternoon showers — bring a light rain jacket. Afternoon temperatures range from 15-20°C.

What to Expect

Expect an afternoon of cultural immersion through Inca history. You'll explore temples, fortresses, and ceremonial sites while learning about ancient engineering and religious practices. The tour includes approximately 4-5 hours of site visits.

Photography Tips

The afternoon light creates beautiful shadows on the massive stones of Sacsayhuaman. Qoricancha's gold-colored walls are stunning in sunlight. Tambomachay's water channels create peaceful reflections. Bring extra battery for your camera!

Money & Tips

Bring extra Peruvian Soles for souvenirs — vendors sell handicrafts and textiles near the sites. You may encounter locals with llamas and alpacas offering photos for tips (usually 2-5 Soles). Tips for your guide and driver are appreciated but not mandatory.

Important Reminders

Hotel pickup is at 1:00 PM. Please be ready in the lobby 10 minutes early.
Bring your passport or ID — it may be required at Qoricancha.
The tour returns around 6:30 PM, leaving your evening free to explore Cusco.
This tour operates rain or shine. We provide ponchos during rainy season if needed.

Tour Packages & Pricing

Choose the perfect option for your Cusco City adventure

Our prices vary depending on your private group size — the more travelers, the better the rate! Every package includes private transportation (except the shared option), professional bilingual guide, all entrance fees, and permanent assistance throughout your adventure.

SOLO ADVENTURE

Private Tour for 1 Person

$185.00

Deposit: $95.00

Perfect for: Independent travelers requiring flexibility.

Your journey, your rules — a fully customizable private experience with a dedicated guide, private transportation, and 100% personalized attention for the ultimate freedom.

THE INTIMATE DUO

Private Tour for 2 People

$120.00 per person

Deposit: $60.00 per person

Perfect for: Couples seeking romance and history.

Create unforgettable memories together. Enjoy an exclusive private tour designed for two, with personalized service and intimate moments in magical settings.

TRIO EXPLORERS

Private Tour for 3 People

$100.00 per person

Deposit: $50.00 per person

Perfect for: Small groups of friends.

The perfect adventure for friends! Private tour with exclusive service, shared experiences, and personalized attention for your ideal group.

Best Value

THE ADVENTURE SQUAD

Private Tour for 5 People

$85.00 per person

Deposit: $45.00 per person

Perfect for: Families or friend groups.

Maximum adventure, best value! Private tour for your squad with all the exclusivity benefits and a special group rate.

THE EXPLORER'S GUILD

Private Tour for 7+ People

$80.00 per person

Deposit: $40.00 per person

Perfect for: Large groups and reunions.

The ultimate group expedition! Exclusive private tour for large groups with maximum savings and premium service for your entire crew.

Important: This package requires a minimum of 7 participants. Smaller groups will convert to a private tour with a surcharge.

PERU RESERVATIONS CREW

Shared Group Tour

$80.00 per person

Deposit: $40.00 per person

Perfect for: Social travelers and budget-conscious explorers.

Join the adventure! Meet fellow travelers in this shared group tour. The most social and economical way to explore while making new friends.

Payment Options

You can pay the full amount or secure your spot with a deposit. The remaining balance can be paid before your departure date.

How to Book with Peru Reservations

Step-by-Step Guide to Booking on WeTravel

Follow these simple steps to secure your Cusco City Half Day adventure quickly and securely:

Click "BOOK NOW"

Find this button on our tour page, and it will direct you to our secure booking platform on WeTravel.

Choose your travel date

Select your desired departure date from the calendar. This is a half-day tour departing at 1:00 PM from Cusco. We recommend booking at least 1-2 days in advance.

Select your package

Choose from our pricing options: Solo Adventure ($185), The Intimate Duo ($120/pp), Trio Explorers ($100/pp), Adventure Squad of 5 ($85/pp), Explorer's Guild 7+ ($80/pp), or Shared Group ($80/pp).

Choose your payment method

Decide whether you want to pay only the deposit to secure your booking or the full payment upfront. The deposit is approximately 50% of the total price.

Complete traveler information

It is VERY IMPORTANT that you enter the full names and surnames of each participant exactly as they appear on their passport or national ID document. Fill in all required fields with accurate information.

Proceed to secure payment

Complete your transaction using your bank account (US Checking Account) or your credit/debit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express). WeTravel uses high-security encryption to protect your data.

Receive your instant confirmation

Upon completing the payment, you will immediately receive a confirmation email from WeTravel with your transaction receipt at the email address you registered.

Confirm your pickup details

Within a few hours, you will receive a second email from our Peru Reservations team confirming your pickup location and time (around 1:00 PM). Please provide your hotel name and address in Cusco.

Need help during the process?

Our team is here to support you. If you have any questions or issues, contact us immediately:

WhatsApp: +51 969 373 000

WhatsApp: +51 958 748 089

Email: info@peru-reservations.com

Email: perureservations1@gmail.com

Your booking will be confirmed within 24 hours! We will contact you to confirm all details before your adventure.

Have Questions?

Send us your inquiry and we'll get back to you shortly

Book Your Adventure

Select your preferred date and secure your spot

CANCELLATION & REFUND POLICY

Terms & Conditions

Key points from our booking policies

Payments

50% deposit required to confirm
Balance due before tour day
Prices in USD

Cancellations

7+ days: Full refund
3-7 days: 50% refund
Less than 3 days: No refund

Your Responsibilities

Valid passport or ID required
Travel insurance recommended
Accurate personal information

Weather Policy

Tours run rain or shine
Extreme weather: reschedule free
Bring appropriate clothing

Non-Refundable

Entrance fees if purchased
No-shows forfeit payment
Late arrivals not refunded

Health Requirements

Suitable for all fitness levels
1+ day acclimatization in Cusco
Comfortable walking shoes

This is a summary of our key terms. For complete details and full legal terms, please review our complete Terms and Conditions document.

View Full Terms & Conditions

PHOTO GALLERY

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calle_empedrada_con_escalones_entre_casas-cobblestone_street_with_steps_between_houses

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the "Boleto Turístico" (Tourist Ticket) included in the price?

Yes, for this specific package, all necessary entrance fees are included in the price (access to Qoricancha, Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay). You do not need to purchase additional tickets.

How much walking is involved?

The tour involves light to moderate walking. You will walk around the archaeological sites, which include steps and uneven terrain. However, the transport takes us from site to site, so it is not a continuous hike.

Do I need to be acclimatized to the altitude?

Yes. Although it is a bus tour, you will be walking at altitudes up to 3,700m. We recommend spending at least 24 hours in Cusco before taking this tour to adjust to the elevation.

Where does the tour finish?

The tour concludes with a drop-off at your hotel or, if you prefer, near the Plaza de Armas so you can enjoy dinner in the city center.

Can I bring luggage with me?

We recommend leaving large luggage at your hotel. A small daypack (15-25L) is sufficient for water, a camera, and a jacket.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Absolutely. This is a family-friendly tour. Children will enjoy exploring the tunnels at Q'enqo and the open spaces at Sacsayhuamán.

What happens if it rains?

The tour operates rain or shine. During the rainy season (November to March), simply bring a good waterproof jacket or poncho. The landscapes are often greener and more beautiful during this time.