Cusco City Tour – Half Day

Duration : 1/2
Type Service
Customized Private Tour
Difficulty
Easy
Availability
The whole year
Language
EN / ES

Cusco City Tour

Cusco is filled with history and impressive monuments. On this City Tour, we will explore the best of the city step by step. We will begin with a visit to Qoricancha, one of the most important examples of the transition from Inca architecture to Spanish colonial architecture. We will then visit two of the most important archaeological sites in the hills above Cusco: Sacsayhuamán and Q’enqo, both essential for understanding Cusco’s importance during the Inca Empire. Finally, during a walking tour through the city center, we will visit San Pedro Market, Cusco’s Main Square, and some of its main streets.

Route Highlights

Cusco Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun) Sacsayhuamán Qenqo Cusco Main Square San Pedro Local Market Twelve-Angled Stone.
Price per traveler
From $ 54
$60 SAVE 10%
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Awards of tripadvisor

Travelers' Choice 2025

5.0
Based on 2,470 reviews

We have 2 departure schedules (you can choose the option that best suits your travel itinerary):

  • Morning schedule: from 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
  • Afternoon schedule: from 1:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

We will pick you up from your hotel 15 minutes before the start of the City Tour to begin the visit to the main attractions of Cusco.

Our first stop will be the Qoricancha Temple (in Quechua, “Golden Enclosure”), one of the most important sites from the Inca period, dedicated to the worship of the Sun. We will continue with a visit to Sacsayhuamán, a Quechua name meaning “satisfied falcon,” built with enormous stone blocks and considered an important religious center. Then, we will visit Q’enqo, a Quechua word meaning “labyrinth,” named by the Spanish due to its underground galleries and small zigzag-shaped carved channels.

Next, we will begin the walking portion of the tour. We will visit the traditional San Pedro Market, where you can experience the local products and atmosphere of the region. Afterwards, we will arrive at the Main Square of Cusco and take a short walk through the city’s main streets, where we will observe well-preserved Inca walls and constructions, including Hatun Rumiyoc Street with the famous Twelve-Angled Stone, and Loreto Street (Inti K’ijllu).

QORIKANCHA

The Santo Domingo Convent was built on top of Qorikancha, or the “Golden Enclosure,” the most important temple dedicated to the worship of the Sun, whose walls were once covered with sheets of gold. The convent stands on finely crafted stone foundations, showcasing the exceptional skill of Inca stonework. Its entrance is an excellent example of Renaissance architecture, while its unique Baroque-style tower stands out above the city’s traditional tiled rooftops. Like many historic temples, it houses an important collection of paintings from the Cusco School of Art.

SACSAYHUAMÁN

A remarkable example of Inca architecture, this fortress was built with enormous granite blocks and served to protect the city of Cusco. Sacsayhuamán (in Quechua, “satisfied falcon”) consists of three large terraces arranged in a zigzag pattern and bordered by massive stone walls reaching up to 300 meters in length. Due to its location above and close to Cusco, as well as the impressive dimensions of its stones (some reaching up to 5 meters in height and weighing up to 350 tons), this site also served as a quarry for some constructions during the colonial period.

Q’ENQO

Located four kilometers northeast of the city of Cusco, Q’enqo is a ceremonial center built on a unique limestone rock formation, featuring underground passages and a semicircular amphitheater. The site includes the archaeological groups of Q’enqo Grande and Q’enqo Chico. Its name means “labyrinth” or “zigzag” in Quechua. It served a purely religious function.

Outside the main area, there is a semicircular amphitheater with trapezoidal niches and a monolith that represents the figure of a puma, measuring approximately six meters in height.

SAN PEDRO MARKET

San Pedro Market is one of the oldest markets in Cusco, founded in 1925. Today, it continues to be the main supply center for essential products for both local residents and visitors. It offers a unique cultural experience where you can discover Andean traditions: hear the Quechua language, observe local customs and gestures, experience the aromas of regional products and flowers, and see traditional handmade clothing and places where these textiles are still produced using ancestral techniques.

CUSCO MAIN SQUARE – PLAZA DE ARMAS

At the Main Square of Cusco, we will visit the Cusco Cathedral and the Temple of the Society of Jesus, both built on sites that were once palaces of Inca rulers. We will walk through the main streets, including the famous Twelve-Angled Stone Street, and admire Inca walls, ancient palaces, and well-preserved structures from the Inca period. There will be time to take photographs and enjoy the historic surroundings.

End of services.

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What’s Included?

Included

  • Hotel pick-up in Cusco.
  • Tourist transportation.
  • Professional bilingual guide (English and Spanish).
  • Entrance tickets to all places included in the tour (Partial Tourist Ticket – BTG).
  • Transfer back to your hotel at the end of the tour.

Not included

  • Meals and beverages.

Recommendations to bring

  • Bring your original passport (valid for at least 6 months).
  • Wear comfortable shoes.
  • Bring a water bottle or reusable water container.
  • Drink plenty of water during the tours.
  • Bring a rain jacket or long poncho during the rainy season.
  • Long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
  • Sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat for sunny days.
  • Sunglasses.
  • Personal medication or personal-use items (contact lens solution, etc.).
  • Camera or video camera.
  • Carry cash in small bills and coins, in Peruvian soles or US dollars.

Price and Options

OPTION 1

GROUP SERVICE / REGULAR
$60
$54 USD
Per person
“ALL ENTRANCE FEES INCLUDED”

(Group tour between 10 to 13 people)

OPTION 3

PRIVATE SERVICE / PREMIUM
$110
$99 USD
Per person
“ALL ENTRANCE FEES INCLUDED”

(Exclusive for Groups of 2 to 3 people)

Additional Information

  • The hotel reservation is subject to space availability.
  • The cost of the tour packages is based on a double or matrimonial room. For an individual room, an additional payment must be made.
  • We can also organize a travel itinerary according to your requirements and the places you want to visit. These can be with category 3, * 4 *, and 5 * hotels.
  • For more queries and information write to us by email:​machupicchuviajesperu@gmail.com

WHY CHOOSE MACHU PICCHU VIAJES PERU?

  • We are a local tour operator based in Cusco with 15 years of experience as a Tour operator 100% Cusquenian Company.
  • We have all the Authorizations and licensed by the Peruvian government as proof that we are an official tour operator.
  • We have the Best Tour guides (Fluent in English and Spanish): We are so proud of our guides! They are highly professional, licensed and degrees by the Peruvian government and speak fluent English and Spanish. They are very knowledgeable and passionate about Incan heritage and history.  Our guides are dedicated to continuous personal and professional development. They do research to ensure that you receive accurately and recognized theories in Incan and Andean cultures.
  • Small groups & Personalized and High-quality service (Customized Private Tour), This fact alone sets us apart from other companies that operate departures with bigger groups.
  • No hidden prices or Surprises/ We Never Pass you onto another operator as most travel agencies do here. We will depart even if you are a group of 02 persons (Departure of tours is 100% guaranteed).
  • We never share services with other companies as most travel agencies do here to Minimize cost
  • We are a Sustainable and eco-friendly tour company, Machu Picchu Viajes Peru has always believed that we should “give back” to the communities we pass through on our treks. Therefore, as part of our commitment to responsible tourism, we socially support and employ these communities.
  • We are committed to social projects and improving living conditions for the children of Peru.
  • Our dream as a locally based company is to create small personalized tours & treks strictly and only operated by local professional staff catering to Personalized and High-quality service.
  • We treat our team of porters the best with a HOUSE for them to sleep in and proper equipment, wages, and health insurance for everyone
  • Master Chefs The best in the Cusco region
  • The food provided on our treks is the best( buffet Style and plenty of food)
  • The best Camping Equipment for the Inca Trail and alternative treks (spacious tents 4 season aluminum poles tents, Eating & Cooking tents, Portable table & chairs, comfortable mattresses, and more…)
  • Our tourist transports are exclusively for our services, which are completely reliable, comfortable, safe and with all the necessary authorizations.

“Machu Picchu Viajes Perú” We know how important it is to trust a trustworthy honest operator to create the adventure of a lifetime while in Peru. Take a look at our reviews and certificates of excellence in Tripadvisor

Where does the tour start and end?
  • All ours tours begins with the pick up to the tourists at the door of their hotels “We pick up to our clients from any hotel located in the city of Cusco”, We recommend to stay close to the historical center of the city of Cusco, it will make it easier to find your hotel.
  • All our tours ends at the door of the hotels, it means the tours will finish with transfer to your respective hotel located in Cusco.
How to prevent altitude sickness?
  • The altitude sickness or soroche can cause you some discomfort during your visit such as dizziness, fatigue or nausea. Try to avoid alcoholic beverages and fatty foods before the visit.
  • To reduce symptoms, try to acclimatize yourself one day before to the altitude of the city of Cusco. We recommend to drink infusions of coca leaf (natural plant used by the Incas) is an excellent option to avoid the actitude sickness.
How is the accommodation?
  • For all the tours which include hotels. We offer hotels of 3* and 4* category, it has spacious and comfortable rooms, bathrooms, hot showers and bueffet breakfast. If the tourist like, you can change the accommodation to a better service. You just have to request it via email for an additional cost.
Which season is the best time to visit Cusco and Machu Picchu?
  • The dry season months between April to December are the best time to come and visit Cusco. During those days the possibility of rain is very little, so the roads are not swampy and the landscapes can be better to enjoy and takes the best pictures. On the other hand, the months with the most rain are January, February and March.
What are the coldest months in Cusco Peru?
  • The coldest season in Cusco are in the months from May to July. During this time the sun is strong in the day, but once it goes down or you spend much time in the shade, it can get very cold. It can go below zero at night, so warm clothes and Jackets are necessary to bring during these months.
How long in advance can I request the tour?
  • We recommend to purchase the tours weeks or months in advance, this because the train and Machu Picchu tickets has a limit of spaces, dont wait until the lust minute to book your tour, other ways you will not be able to find spaces.
During the trip to Machu Picchu, where the big luggages will stay?

The train company that operates to Machu Picchu does not allow the traveler to carry a suitcase that weighs more than 7 kilograms. To go up and visit the city of Machu Picchu, it is recommended to carry a light and small backpack for your convenience; the rest of the luggages you can leave them without any problem at the storage of your hotel in Cusco, or you can also leave at our office in Cusco city, we have an storage too.

Very Important in case you want to book the Inca trail to Machu Picchu:
  • CLASSIC INCA TRAIL 4 DAYS: If you want to book the Classic Inca Trail 4 days, you must to book early to get your desired date. Depending on the month you prefer to do the hike, you may need to book 6 months or more in advance, the limit of spaces for the inca trail 4 days is 400 people per each day.
  • SHORT INCA TRAIL: If you are booking the 1 or 2 day Inca Trail, it is preferred that you also book in advance, however 2 to 4 month in advance would be good, the limit of spaces for the short inca trail is 200 people per each day.
When is the best season to hike the Inca Trail?
  • The best time of year to do the inca trail is between May to October, with August and September being the best months of all. The trail is dry and the weather is lovely. During the rainy season between November to April  the trail will be wet and can make it more difficult.

What are customers saying about Us

At Machu Picchu Viajes Perú, our goal is to create the best possible experience for all our clients. Proof of our commitment is reflected in our customer recommendations.

Our rating on TripAdvisor

4.9/5 Based on 2,469 reviews
Lawrence R | Jan 2026
5.0

A very personal experience

Our guide and driver could not have been more helpful. The bus was just for us but was modern, clean and tidy. The visits to the archaeological sites and the weavers were fascinating and breaks were timed around our needs. I can't recommend this outing too highly.

Doug C | Jan 2026
5.0

Sacred Valley, Machu Pichu, Rainbow Mountain

We spent 3 full days with Domingo combining the 2-day Sacred Valley/Machu Pichu tour with 1-day Rainbow Mountain, both originated in Cusco. The entire trip was awesome! Domingo provided everything we could as and more for our small group. He was punctual, helpful, knowledgeable, and a pleasure to travel with. His experience and local knowledge was evident as he (and our drivers) guided us across and through these cultural and geographic spectacles. Domingo provided insight we couldn't have achieved on our own, while giving us our space to explore and enjoy the surrounding at our own pace. Domingo also provided technical assistance if required, such as assisting us with train schedules. Domingo help make this trip a marvelous and memorable adventure..

Agos B | Jan 2026
5.0

An unforgettable tour

Excellent planning and accompaniment of the whole team. A lot of professionalism on the part of agents and guides. The only thing we didn't like was the little lunch option. While the buffet was optional, there were no other options either or told us in any previous village if we wanted to buy our lunch beforehand. We were practically forced to buy that lunch which by the way we found expensive.

Meena G | Dec 2025
5.0

Above and Beyond! The Best Way to See Peru

Our 14-day trip to Peru with Machu Picchu Valjes was absolutely seamless from start to finish. Traveling to a new continent with children where there is a language barrier can be daunting, but this team made us feel completely at home. From the moment we landed until the moment we departed, we had professional, prompt guides and drivers by our side.

Mitzi A | Dec 2025
5.0

Positive experience for private tour

Very pleasant, clear and close experience from the point of view of doubts for quotation, simple and totally secure contract and international payment process, very personalized treatment and quick responses after payment and contract for the logistics of the activity, I highly recommend it, all the team very prepared and extremely friendly.

Our rating on Google

4.9/5 Based on 120 customer
Maggie Cerrotta | Sep 2025
5.0

Excelente experiencia!!! Realmente es un lugar maravilloso donde se conjuga la naturaleza con el ingenio del inca. Ademas nuestro guia Yorgan nos acompaño a traves de estos dos dias brindando sus excelentes conocimientos academicos como asi tambien su respeto, compromiso y calidez en su trabajo!!!! Excelente!!!! La proxima pensamos recorrer el camino del inca de 65 km!!!! La empresa Machu Pichu Viajes es muy recomendable, horarios, los guias en gral. diempre muy atentos como asi tambien los hoteles muy buenos!!! Hermoso viaje en familia!!!

Avis Bosso | Jul 2025
5.0

Excellent travel agency we are very happy to find them. we're all had wonderful time in this trip. Their service were so professional and helpful. I will 💯 % to recommend this agency. Special thanks for miss blossom she makes our trip so unforgettable. This is the trip of the life time .…

claudio strasorier | Abr 2025
5.0

Excelente empresa donde su gran cualidad es la comunicación antes durante y después del programa de viajes. Hicimos Cusco y Machu Picchu con yorgan el guía que con su humildad y robustez estos 4 días hizo una muy buena experiencia..las unidades de traslado los choferes, la ayuda en la gestión de entradas fueron de gran valor agregado..gracias seguro que volveremos

Jennifer Lewis | Feb 2025
5.0

this tour was a highlight of our trip to Peru! Our guide William was so knowledgeable, kind, and patient and took probably 100 fantastic photos of us. this was a day to remember and a highlight of our trip to Peru. having your company coordinate everything made it so much easier and was such a relief. thank you!

Turistas en Machu Picchu

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Over 10,000 travelers served
Why Travel with "Machu Picchu Viajes Peru"?

More than a trip, we create authentic experiences in Peru

We specialize in designing personalized trips to Machu Picchu and the main destinations in Peru, combining impeccable organization, personalized attention, and deep local knowledge.

Proven Experience

Years of experience operating routes such as the Inca Trail, Salkantay, and cultural tours, with packages throughout Peru.

Specialized Local Team

Certified guides and trained staff who guarantee quality service and professional support.

Safe and Official Operations

Company registered and authorized by official tourism entities in Peru.

Commitment to the Community

We work with local providers promoting sustainable development and responsible tourism.

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Awards and Recognitions

National and international distinctions that support our commitment to quality and excellence in every experience.

Machu Picchu Viajes Peru Awards

Travellers' Choice Awards

Machu Picchu Viajes Peru is a highly recommended company on Tripadvisor, ranked as one of the best tour operators nationwide, winner of the 2025 Excellence Award.

Machu Picchu Viajes Peru Awards

Certificates and Authorizations

Machu Picchu Viajes Peru is a company fully authorized by the Peruvian government, certifying us as a legally established company with multiple excellence certificates.

Machu Picchu Viajes Peru Awards

Sustainable and Responsible

Machu Picchu Viajes Peru meets the highest social and environmental standards in the tour operator market, meaning we practice sustainable and environmentally responsible tourism.

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