The city of Cusco was the most important urban center of the Inca culture, considered the capital of the Tahuantinsuyu (four regions) led by the Sapa Inca (which means «earthly deity»), the sole ruler of the Tahuantinsuyu, and was founded by the first Inca, Manco Capac.

Cusco comes from the Quechua word Qosqo, which means «navel of the world» or «center of the universe.» The meaning of «navel» indicates Cusco, a spiritual center.

Since 1982, it has been designated by UNESCO as the Archaeological Capital of South America. For this reason, and for attractions like Machu Picchu, the Cusco Region is the most important city in Peru.

The city center, surrounded by palaces, temples, and canchas (homes), with narrow streets and adjacent plazas, is considered a history museum open to all who wish to visit. Surrounded by unparalleled charm, a city that invites you to be a part of it with its traditions and culture.

Welcome to Cusco + Cusco City Tour

• Welcome to the Imperial City of Cusco! Our team will meet you in the morning at your hotel lobby. If this is your first day of your trip, we suggest taking it easy, as the altitude can be a challenge. Don’t worry if you experience any shortness of breath or headaches upon arrival. For this reason, it is recommended to stay hydrated and drink mint teas.
• Your Cusco city tour or Cusco City Tour will begin at 8:00 am, when we will meet you. On this tour, you will visit key sites in the city center and surrounding Inca archaeological sites, such as:
  
  
  • • Cusco Main Square: 3,400 meters above sea level / 11,145 ft.
    • Q’oricancha.
    • Sacsayhuamán: 3,600 meters above sea level / 11,811 ft.
    • Q’enqo: altitude 3,580 meters above sea level/11,745 feet.
    • Puca Pucara: altitude 3,680 meters above sea level/12,103 feet.
    • Tambomachay: altitude 3,700 meters above sea level/12,139 feet
      
      
• We’ll begin our tour with a little history about our culture and the importance of the main square, unique in South America, and then head to one of the most important sun temples during the Inca culture.
• Q’oricancha, or the Temple of the Sun, where you can compare and contrast the construction methods of the Inca culture and the Spanish. This was the key spiritual center of the Incas, leading to the four suyas, or regions, of Inca culture.
• From Q’oricancha, we’ll continue aboard our private transportation and head 25 minutes outside the city to visit the most important archaeological sites in Cusco.
  
  
• You will be taken to the majestic Inca site of Sacsayhuamán, a fortress with its enigmatic 200-ton monoliths. We will continue on our transport for 5 minutes to the Inca site of Q’enqo to see its fascinating ritual altars where animal sacrifices were performed.
• Then, we will travel another 5 minutes on wheels to Puca Pucara, a small circular Inca archaeological complex. Due to its strategic location, this was a checkpoint. A few minutes away on foot is the Tambomachay Archaeological Complex, considered a center dedicated to the worship of water, composed of niches and impressive fountains, believed to have been used only by the Inca nobility for bathing.
• Then, we will return to Cusco, where the tour ends at the main square.

Details:

• Difficulty level: Pleasant.
• Duration: Half Day.
• Altitude of Cusco: 3,400 masl / 11,145 ft.
• Maximum altitude: 3,700 meters above sea level/12,139 feet.
• Meals: Not included.

SAMIN EXPEDITIONS will ensure your return to your hotel.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

• Experienced, professional bilingual guide.
• First aid kit, including emergency oxygen tank.
• All private transportation.

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED:

• Entrance Tickets: Many sites in Cusco and the Sacred Valley accept the Tourist Ticket, which is a bit pricey but grants access to many of our most notable areas. The Inca sites visited on this tour to the Sacred Valley of the Incas are included in this tour. Tickets can be purchased.
  
  
  • • A 1-day pass costs 70 PEN.
    • A 10-day pass costs 130 PEN.
    • A valid STUDENT ID card offers a discount on the 10-day pass for 70 PEN.
      
      

Only soles are accepted, and payment must be made in cash. You can purchase this directly at the first site.

• Lunch: This tour is a half-day tour; once you return to Cusco, you’ll find many good options.
• Admission to Q’oricancha (10 soles).

WHAT SHOULD I BRING?

Essentials:

• Passport.
• Valid STUDENT ID (if you booked as a student).
• Immigration card (given at the airport upon entering Peru).
• Backpack (the smaller the better).
• Water Storage: A reusable water container is recommended.
• Comfortable boots (lightweight with good soles).

Toiletries:

• Sunscreen.
• Facial moisturizer.
• Hand sanitizer.
• Wet wipes.
• Toilet paper.

Inside Your Backpack:

Backpacks can be any size, but we always suggest the smaller the better.

• Water: Our private transportation will always have water containers so you can refill your containers.
• Personal medication.
• Some snacks such as chocolate bars and nuts.
• Sun hat.
• Rain gear.
• Rain poncho.
• Camera.
• Music (cell phone).
• Hand sanitizer.
• Toilet paper and a small plastic bag for waste.
• Extra money for souvenirs, drinks, and tips.

What causes altitude sickness?

Acute mountain sickness is caused by a reduction in atmospheric pressure and lower oxygen levels at high altitudes. The faster you ascend to a higher altitude, the greater the likelihood of suffering from acute mountain sickness. The best way to prevent altitude sickness is to ascend gradually.

What can you do to avoid altitude sickness?

A good way to prevent altitude sickness is to stay hydrated by drinking at least 4 or 5 liters of water a day and maintaining a varied, carbohydrate-rich diet. It is advisable to avoid alcohol, tobacco, and very fatty foods. Another golden rule for preventing altitude sickness is to rest.

What medication should you take for altitude sickness?

Acetazolamide for the prevention of altitude sickness.

What should you do before traveling to high altitude?

To avoid altitude sickness, you should prepare a few days before your trip. It is important to stay well hydrated, avoid eating fatty or heavy meals, and be well rested.

What does the coca leaf do at altitude?

The coca leaf eliminates the ailments you may experience in cities at high altitudes. Credit: Diffusion. According to the Transnational Institute, the coca leaf contains countless mineral nutrients, essential oils, and pharmacological components.

What contradictions does the coca leaf have?

• • • They are also sold in coca leaf mate preparations.
    • Contraindications of coca tea.
      
      
• Never overindulge in coca tea; always drink it in normal amounts.
• If you are pregnant, refrain from drinking this infusion, as it can cause problems such as birth defects or malformations and miscarriages.

Do you have any questions or concerns about this destination?

Don’t hesitate to contact us. SAMIN EXPEDITIONS will be happy to help and guide you with everything you need to explore this place without complications.