/ per person
Cusco, known as the “Imperial City,” is a historic gem nestled in the Peruvian Andes. It was the capital of the Inca Empire, the largest empire in pre-Columbian America, and served as its political, cultural, and religious center. Founded around the 12th century, Cusco was meticulously designed in the shape of a puma, a sacred animal in Inca mythology. Its sophisticated urban planning, monumental architecture, and advanced engineering, exemplified by sites like Sacsayhuamán and Qorikancha, highlight the ingenuity of Incan civilization.
Following the Spanish conquest in the 16th century, Cusco became a hub of colonial power and culture. Spanish settlers built churches, mansions, and plazas atop Inca foundations, blending European styles with Indigenous influences. Today, Cusco is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its seamless fusion of Inca and colonial heritage and serving as the gateway to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu
Today, you will embark on a guided exploration of the Imperial City of Cusco, delving into its rich history and remarkable architecture. Your journey begins at the Main Plaza, a central hub that has witnessed significant events throughout the city’s storied past. Here, you will visit the magnificent Cathedral, a masterpiece of Renaissance design constructed from massive red granite slabs. Inside, the intricate baroque-style silverwork and ornate decorations offer a striking contrast to its imposing exterior.
Next, you will visit the Santo Domingo Church, built atop the ancient foundations of the Inca temple Koricancha, a sacred site dedicated to the worship of the Sun. This unique blend of Inca and colonial architecture provides fascinating insights into the city’s cultural transformation. Along the way, you will encounter the famous 12-Cornered Stone, a marvel of Incan craftsmanship, and learn about its intriguing history and symbolism.
The tour continues as you venture to the nearby ruins surrounding Cusco. At the fortress of Sacsayhuamán, marvel at the incredible precision of the massive stone walls, a testament to Incan engineering and military might. You will then explore Qenqo, a mysterious ceremonial site with carved stone altars and subterranean passageways that form an intricate labyrinth. From there, you will visit Puca Pucara, known as the Red Fortress, an impressive structure that may have served as a military checkpoint or resting place for travelers. Finally, your journey takes you to Tambomachay, also known as the Incan Baths, where the ingenuity of Inca water management systems is on full display through its aqueducts and cascading fountains.
After this captivating and educational experience, you will be driven back to your hotel, with the rest of the day free for relaxation or further exploration at your leisure.
End of our services.
All touring arrangements herein are subject to change without notice and can be operated in a different sequence, depending on operational considerations, weather conditions and BIO-SECURE PROTOCOLS. All hotels are subject to availability and can be replaced with similar hotels. Each passenger must have a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months of remaining validity, before its date of expiration. Visitors arriving with less than 6 months of remaining passport validity to any foreign country risk immediate return to the airport where they boarded the arriving flight. If any visas are required, they are the sole responsibility of each passenger.
All payments for custom-designed itineraries are non-refundable in the event of cancelation by passengers. Travel insurance is highly recommended.