Cucso, a city in Peru where ancient history meets colonial architecture, is a place brimming with mind-blowing attractions. Travellers, however, are recommended to use a local tour company to see these iconic sites, as they are experienced in visiting the remote areas as well as explaining their historical significance. Here are some of the things you can expect in your Cusco tour!
Key Attractions You Will Visit
While each tour is different, and you can pick them based on the sites you are most interested in, there are a few top attractions that most tours tend to include:
San Blas
Starting right in the city of Cusco, San Blas is a vibrant neighbourhood that shall not be missed by visitors. Home to charming cobblestone streets and magnificent colonial architecture, the area is most famously known as the art hub of the city. As you wander around, you will get to see some beautiful pieces in artisan galleries and workshops.
Qorikancha
A visit to Cusco would not be complete without seeing Qorikancha, otherwise known as the Temple of the Sun.
This sacred Incan religious side was originally the base for the Convent of Santo Domingo and, today, it showcases the amazing stonework precision of the ancient civilisations.
Sacsayhuamán
Sacsayhuamán is a massive ceremonial fortress, located high-up on a hill. This historic site will not fail to amaze you, with its amazing limestone walls and signs of smart engineering back in Incan times. If that’s not enough, it is surrounded by panoramic views of the region, including a bird’s-eye view of Cusco.
Sacred Valley
And, to no one’s surprise, Sacred Valley is by far the most popular attraction in the list, visited by thousands every year. The valley is famous for its rich soil, which is why it had huge agricultural significance during the Incan empire. The natural landscapes all throughout the region are truly otherworldly, featuring jaw-dropping ruins dating back to ancient times.
Cultural Experiences
Cusco tours are not just about visiting historical sites – they are also there to immerse you into the local culture and provide the most authentic experiences. That is why you can usually expect visits to the local markets, such as San Pedro or Pisac, and savour the most delicious Andean street foods. Some of the delicacies to keep an eye out for include fresh exotic juices, ceviche, Chiri Uchu, Lomo Saltado, and Sopa de Quinua.
Not just that, if you want to experience the Peruvian traditions first-hand, many tours will also include various activities, like textile workshops. These workshops showcase the cultural importance of the textile industry in Cusco as well as take you through the ancient arts of weaving and dyeing natural materials, which are still used by artisans today.
Logistics
The biggest benefit of getting a professional tour in Cusco is their expertise when it comes to logistics. For instance, visiting some of the ancient sites involves going to areas of high altitudes, which will require acclimatisation. The tour guides are aware of the risks as well as the best ways to help you adjust to the changes. In addition, getting to these places is not easy, but tour guides already know the routes and methods of transportation to get you there comfortably.
In addition to this, most reputable tour guides will be bilingual, able to communicate well not only with the locals, but also with the visitors. They should be local and very knowledgeable in the history of the area, providing the most educational experience. Most importantly, they know how to manage the tour in a respectful way towards the environment, ensuring that tourism benefits local communities, as opposed to disturbing them.
Recommended Tour Companies
Finding a reliable tour company in Cusco can be tricky, with so many different options coming up online. So, here are a few examples of reputable companies, known for great experiences and responsible tourism:
Guruexplorers
Guruexplorers – Cusco tours are perfected over the years to offer the most immersive and authentic experience possible.
They are known for avoiding very crowded tourist routes to improve your overall experience, while still seeing all the most important sites. Their customer service uses a highly personalised approach, going above and beyond.
Alpaca Expeditions
Also recognised for their green initiatives and an eco-conscious approach, Alpaca Expeditions offer a variety of group tours. Their goal is to provide a unique, memorable experience every time, adapted to your personal preferences.
Yapa Explorers
Specialising in Cusco-based tours, Yapa Explorers offers a range of tours for both small and large groups, operating from the city centre. Although only established in 2024, this company is already gaining recognition and trust from its many customers.
Final Considerations
If there is one way to guarantee an unforgettable experience in this beautiful country, a professional Cusco tour is it. Not only is it easier, as all logistics are taken care of for you, the guides will ensure an authentic and educational visit.
