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Cusco City Tour (Afternoon)
Qorikancha, Sacsayhuaman & Plaza de Armas · Half-Day Afternoon Tour
Half day · Moderate · Up to 16
Overview
The Cusco City Tour is the perfect way to discover the history, culture, and archaeological wonders of the ancient capital of the Inca Empire in just one afternoon. This half-day experience combines the most important places in and around Cusco with the guidance of a professional bilingual guide, making it an ideal introduction to the city for first-time visitors.
Departing at 1:00 PM and returning by approximately 6:00 PM, you visit some of the most iconic landmarks in and around Cusco, including the sacred Qorikancha, the impressive hilltop fortress of Sacsayhuaman, and the beautiful Plaza de Armas. Along the way you learn about the legacy of the Incas, the arrival of the Spanish, and the unique mix of cultures that makes Cusco one of the most fascinating cities in South America.
The afternoon light over Sacsayhuaman and the Plaza de Armas is especially beautiful, making this a wonderful choice for travelers who prefer a later start. If you are looking for a short, meaningful, and well-organized introduction to the city, the Cusco City Tour is a great choice.
Why you'll love this trek
- Discover Cusco, the ancient Inca capital, in a single relaxed afternoon.
- Visit the sacred Qorikancha, the mighty Sacsayhuaman and the Plaza de Armas.
- The golden afternoon light over Sacsayhuaman makes for unforgettable photos.
- A later start (1:00 PM) — perfect if you'd rather ease into the day.
Itinerary
your day, hour by hour
1:00 PM. Your tour begins at our meeting point in Plaza Regocijo, in the heart of Cusco's historic center. Your professional bilingual guide welcomes you and gives a brief introduction before starting the tour.
1:15 to 2:00 PM. The first stop is Qorikancha, one of the most important temples of the Inca Empire. This sacred palace was once covered in gold and later became the base of the colonial Church of Santo Domingo. Here you see the impressive fusion of Inca stonework and Spanish colonial architecture, with great photo opportunities.
2:10 to 2:25 PM. A short transfer by tourist vehicle to the impressive archaeological site of Sacsayhuaman, located just above the city.
2:30 to 4:15 PM. You explore one of the most impressive Inca sites in Cusco. Its giant stone walls, panoramic views, and historical importance make it one of the highlights of the tour, with plenty of time for photographs.
4:30 to 5:15 PM. Back in the city center, your guide leads you through the historic streets and explains the importance of the Plaza de Armas, surrounded by some of the most beautiful colonial buildings in the city.
5:15 to 6:00 PM. At the end of the guided visit you have free time to enjoy the center of Cusco, take photos, shop for handicrafts, or relax in one of the nearby cafes. The tour ends at approximately 6:00 PM.
What's included
Included
- Professional bilingual guide (English and Spanish). A certified, experienced guide brings the history, architecture, and cultural significance of each site to life in both English and Spanish, with guided visits to all the main sites.
- Tourist transportation. Comfortable tourist vehicle for the transfer between the city center and the Sacsayhuaman archaeological site. Walking sections through the historic center are conducted on foot.
- First-aid kit. Your guide carries a fully equipped first-aid kit throughout the tour, ready to assist with any minor health concern during the excursion.
Not included
- Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turistico). The entrance to Sacsayhuaman is covered by the Cusco Tourist Ticket, which is not included and must be purchased separately by each visitor, in advance or on arrival. Please consult our team for current pricing.
- Entrance ticket to Qorikancha. Not included. The entrance to the Qorikancha temple and museum is approximately S/ 15.00 soles per person, paid individually at the entrance (cash in soles).
- Meals. No meals are included in this afternoon tour.
- Travel insurance. Not included. We recommend a valid travel insurance policy that covers guided excursions and activities in Cusco.
- Gratuities. Tips are entirely optional. If you feel your guide provided exceptional service, a voluntary tip is always warmly appreciated.
- Personal expenses. Any personal expenses incurred during the tour, including souvenirs, handicrafts, snacks, or beverages, are not covered by the tour price.
What to bring
A suggested packing checklist for this trip.
Essential
Clothing
Equipment
Recommended
Pricing
The Cusco City Tour operates as a group service with an average of 10 to 14 participants and a maximum of 16 people per group. Every group is accompanied by a professional bilingual guide (English and Spanish), ensuring a safe, informative, and enjoyable experience throughout the afternoon.
Good to know
Acclimatize first. Spend at least 2 days in Cusco (3,400 m) before any high-altitude trek. Our guides carry emergency oxygen and are first-aid trained.
- To request a cancellation, please contact us at info@machupicchuonline.com.
- Rescheduling: need to change your date or try a different experience? No problem. You may reschedule or switch to an alternative tour, such as the Moray & Maras Salt Mines, Humantay Lake, Sacred Valley, or Palcoyo, at no extra cost, provided you notify us before 7:00 PM the day before your original tour date.
- Cancellations by Machu Picchu Online: if we cancel the tour due to weather, strikes, or other unforeseen events beyond our control, you will receive a full 100% refund of your payment, no questions asked.
- Full refund (100%): cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure.
- Partial refund (50%): cancel within 24 hours but before 7:00 PM the day prior.
- No refund: cancellations made after 7:00 PM the day before the tour.
Frequently asked questions
What sites does the afternoon Cusco City Tour visit?
How long does the tour last?
Is the tour suitable for first-time visitors to Cusco?
Do I need to buy the Cusco Tourist Ticket in advance?
How much walking is involved?
Is the altitude a concern on this tour?
Where does the tour start and end?
Why book with Machu Picchu Online
100% local operator
Born and raised in Cusco, we run every tour ourselves.
Fair, direct prices
Real local rates with no reseller markup.
Licensed & certified
MINCETUR-registered, with official professional guides.
Human WhatsApp support
Real people, fast answers, in your language.
