Cusco adorned the palaces and temples of the Inca rulers, known as the ancient capital of the Inca Empire and one of the most important cities in colonial times in Peru; the Spanish adorned it with baroque and neoclassical churches, palaces, and plazas, making it the main attraction of Peru today.
UNESCO has designated it as a World Heritage Site since 1983 due to its vast number of monuments.
The history of Cusco dates back more than 3,000 years, when the city was founded by the Inca civilization. Known as the “capital of the Inca Empire”, Cusco was the political, cultural and religious center of one of the most advanced civilizations in South America. Today, visitors can explore Inca ruins, such as Sacsayhuamán and Qorikancha, that still remain in the city.
Cusco (Qosqo in Quechua) is a city in southeastern Peru, located on the eastern slope of the Andes, in the basin of the Huatanay River, and a tributary of the Vilcanota in the sacred valley. It is the capital of the department of Cusco, and also stated by the Peruvian constitution, it is the “historical capital” of the country. A cosmopolitan city, willing to show all visitors its cultural attractions, traditions and customs.
Overview
A city tour of Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, offers a fascinating glimpse into its rich history, vibrant culture, and architectural marvels. Here’s an overview of what a typical city tour of Cusco might include:
Historical and Cultural Significance
- Inca Empire: Cusco was the political, cultural, and religious center of the Inca Empire. It is often referred to as the “Navel of the World” .(Qosqo in Quechua).
- The Spanish conquered: The city in the 16th century, leading to a blend of Inca and colonial Spanish influences in its architecture and culture.
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: Cusco was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. Recognizing its historical significance and cultural heritage.
Main Attractions on a City Tour
1. Plaza de Armas (Main Square)
- Cathedral of Santo Domingo: A stunning example of colonial architecture built on the foundations of the Inca palace Kiswarkancha. It houses valuable colonial art and artifacts.
- Church of the Society of Jesus (Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús): Another impressive colonial church known for its ornate Baroque architecture.
2. Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun)
- Historical Significance: Qorikancha was the most important temple in the Inca Empire, dedicated to the sun god Inti. The Spanish built the Santo Domingo Convent over its foundations.
- Architecture: Visitors can see the impressive Inca stonework and Spanish colonial architecture side by side, reflecting the city’s layered history.
3. Sacsayhuamán
- Archaeological Site: Located on a hill overlooking Cusco, Sacsayhuamán is an impressive Inca fortress known for its massive stone walls. The site offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape.
- Historical Importance: It was a key military complex and ceremonial center for the Incas.
4. Tambomachay, Puka Pukara, and Qenqo
- Tambomachay: Known as the “Bath of the Inca,” it features a series of aqueducts, canals, and waterfalls.
- Puka Pukara: A small fortress or military outpost with panoramic views.
- Qenqo: A ceremonial site with carved rocks, and subterranean passages believed to be used for rituals.
Practical Information for Visitors
- Tour Duration: A typical city tour of Cusco usually lasts about half a day (4-5 hours), but tour guides can extend it to a full day if they include all nearby archaeological sites.
- Tour Options: Tours can be arranged through numerous tour operators in Cusco. Offering group or private options. English-speaking guides are available.
- Acclimatization: Cusco is located at an altitude of about 3,400 meters (11,200 feet). It’s important to acclimate to the altitude to prevent altitude sickness. Spend a few days in the city or the Sacred Valley before undertaking more strenuous activities.
Tips for a Smooth Tour
- Comfortable Footwear: Cusco’s streets are often cobblestoned and uneven, so comfortable walking shoes are essential.
- Weather Preparedness: The weather in Cusco can be unpredictable. Bring layers, including a rain jacket, to accommodate varying temperatures and potential rain showers.
- Respect Local Customs: While visiting religious sites and interacting with locals, be respectful of customs and traditions.
A city tour of Cusco offers a rich tapestry of historical and cultural experiences, providing a deeper understanding of Peru’s Inca heritage and colonial past.
Itinerary
Cusco also known as the navel of the world offers a variety of tourist routes in and out of the ciudad.es an incredible mix of Inca and Spanish, this enigmatic city considered the historical capital of America has many secrets that you have to decipher the time your visit.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
PLACES TO VISIT:
CUSCO CITY TOUR – DAY TOUR.
The first day of your arrival it is advisable to make a City tour cusco. They are picked up from your hotel between 09: 00.hrs. You will have a guided tour through the center of the city of Cusco, visit the Temple of the Sun Qoricancha- and then go out to visit the ruins of Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara and Tambomachay, returning to the city between 16:00 hrs . and 16:30 hrs.
1.- The Qoricancha. –
- Then we visit the Qoricancha temple, the highest expression of Inca architecture and engineering. The Temple of the Sun or Qoricancha, is also currently the Convent of Santo Domingo.
2.- Sacsayhuaman. –
- Sacsayhuaman’s impressive fortress stands strategically on a hill overlooking Cusco. It is famous for its huge carved stones, some as tall as 9 meters (30 feet) and weighing over 350 tons. The Incas built this complex in the 15th century, specifically under Sapa Inca Pachacuti and his successors. The place consists of various sectors built with enormous stones, the builders carefully cut the rocks to join them firmly without mortar.
3.- Qenqo. –
- Located four kilometers northeast of the city of Cusco, it has the archaeological groups of Qenqo Grande and Qenqo Chico. Etymologically, it means labyrinth or zigzag, served a purely religious function, being on the outside a semicircular amphitheater with trapezoidal niches and a monolith that simulates a puma which is approximately six meters.
5.- Puka pukara. –
- The reddish coloration of the terrain, which contains a lot of iron, gives Puka Pukara its name because the calcareous stones with which builders constructed it have acquired this color. People allege that Puka Pukara protected Tambomachay, an important palace from the Inca time. However, people used Tambomachay as a “tambo” to offer inn, food, and shelter to travelers and the entourage accompanying the Inca in his retirement.
6.- Tambomachay. –
- Tambomachay is located about 8 kilometers north of Cusco and very close to the ruins of Puka Pukara. It is an archaeological site dedicated to the worship of water and served as a resting place for the head of the Inca Empire. This place is also called Baños del Inca. It consists of a series of aqueducts, canals and several waterfalls that run along the rocks. The surprising thing about this is that from a main waterfall, the Incas created 2 secondary waterfalls, which are exactly the same. That is, if one places two empty bottles, one in each waterfall, the two are filled at the same time.
Inclusions
SERVICE INCLUDES:
- Tourist transport
- Tour guide.
NO INCLUDED:
- Tourist Tickets
- Extra Expenses
Should Bring
WHAT YOU NEED TO TAKE:
- Tourist ticket (not included in price)
- Sun hat
- Sunscreen (factor 70 recommended)
- Waterproof jacket / rain poncho
- Water
- Camera
- Extra money
Price
Price: Season 2024
Shared Service:
- Price per person U$.30
- The approximate group is 15 people
Private & Personalized Service:
- Price per person U$ .80
- Minimum people 02 pax
Booking
