Cusco City Tour: Inca Ruins, Cathedral & Coricancha Visit

Summary

Guided Tour of Cusco’s Archaeological Wonders & Historic Center

You’ll walk ancient Inca paths, see where gold once covered temple walls, and stand among stones that have watched centuries pass by. This tour brings you face-to-face with Cusco’s living history—guided by locals who know every hidden corner.

What’s the experience like?

The morning air in Cusco always feels a bit crisp, especially if you’re up early. We started our day at the old heart of the city, where the Santo Domingo Convent sits right on top of what used to be the Inca’s Temple of the Sun—Coricancha. You can still see those massive stone foundations at the base, dark and smooth, almost humming with history. Our guide, Julia, pointed out how the Spanish built their church over these stones—she even showed us a spot where you can touch both Inca and colonial walls at once. There’s something surreal about standing there, imagining how the temple once glowed with gold leaf under the sun.

Next stop was the Cathedral on Plaza de Armas. Inside, it’s quiet except for footsteps echoing off old wooden floors. The paintings from the Cusqueña school are everywhere—some show familiar biblical scenes but with llamas or Andean mountains in the background. Julia explained how local artists mixed their own symbols into European stories. I noticed a faint scent of incense lingering near one of the side chapels; someone must’ve just finished morning prayers.

We left the busy center behind and drove up winding roads to Sacsayhuaman. The stones here are enormous—some bigger than my car back home—and fit together so tightly you can’t even wedge a coin between them. There was a group of kids flying kites nearby, their laughter carrying on the breeze. From up here, you get a wide view over all of Cusco; rooftops look like scattered red tiles in a patchwork quilt.

Qenqo was next—a strange place carved right into natural rock. It’s cooler here in the shade, and Julia told us about rituals that happened inside these twisting passages. She pointed out grooves where water used to run during ceremonies. Honestly, it felt a little eerie but fascinating at the same time.

Puka Pukara sits higher still, its reddish stones catching late afternoon light. We wandered through open squares and narrow rooms while Julia explained how this spot guarded approaches to Cusco. Not many people around—just us and a couple of friendly stray dogs napping in the sun.

Tambomachay was our last stop before heading back down to town. Water still flows through ancient channels here; you can hear it trickling quietly if you stand close enough. Locals say this place was sacred to the Incas because they believed water was alive—a deity in its own right. By now, my legs were tired but my head was buzzing with stories and images from each site.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Cusco City and Archaeological Sites

• Visit Santo Domingo Convent (Temple of the Sun)
• Explore Cusco Cathedral
• Tour Sacsayhuaman Fortress
• Visit Q'enqo Archaeological Site
• See Puka Pukara Fortress
• Explore Tambomachay

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included?

Yes, we’ll pick you up from your hotel in central Cusco and drop you off after the tour.

Do I need to buy extra tickets for archaeological sites?

You’ll need a Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTC) for Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara & Tambomachay—it’s not included but your guide will help explain how to get it.

Are guides available in English?

Yes! Our professional guides speak English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese.

Is this tour suitable for kids or older travelers?

Absolutely—it’s designed for all fitness levels and families are welcome. Just let us know if you have special needs.

What’s included

Your guided tour covers hotel pickup/drop-off in Cusco, entrance fees for Coricancha and the Cathedral, plus an expert local guide (English/Spanish/French/Portuguese). You’ll need to purchase your own Tourist Ticket (BTC) for some archaeological sites—your guide will help with details when you arrive.