Cusco Sunset City Tour
Traditional tours
Discover the essence of Cusco during the most atmospheric hours of the day on this immersive afternoon city tour. As daylight slowly fades, explore the city’s most iconic landmarks, where Inca heritage and colonial architecture blend into a unique cultural landscape. This half-day experience combines history, archaeology, and panoramic views, offering an ideal introduction to Cusco and its surrounding archaeological sites while enjoying the softer light and cooler temperatures of the late afternoon.
Duration
1 Day
Difficulty level
1/5
Languages
Spanish, English
Guide
Included in the service
Transfers
All transfers included
What’s Included?
It is included:
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off from accommodations located in Cusco’s historic center
- Shared transportation throughout the tour
- Guided visit to Cusco’s historic center
- Guided exploration of nearby archaeological sites
- Professional bilingual tour guide
Not included:
- Domestic or international flights
- Meals and beverages
- Tips and personal expenses
- Entrance ticket to Qorikancha
- Entrance ticket to Cusco Cathedral
- Cusco Partial Tourist Ticket (BTC)
- Transportation from hotels located outside the historic center
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco City & Surrounding Archaeological Sites
The tour begins with hotel pick-up in the early afternoon, heading first into the heart of Cusco. You will explore Qorikancha, the former Inca Temple of the Sun, renowned for its advanced stonework and its transformation during the colonial era. The experience continues at Cusco’s Plaza de Armas, where you will admire the Cusco Cathedral and learn about the city’s evolution from the Inca Empire to Spanish rule.
Leaving the city center, the journey continues to the impressive archaeological complex of Sacsayhuamán, famous for its massive stone walls and commanding views over Cusco. Nearby, you will visit Q’enqo, a ceremonial site carved directly into limestone, known for its mysterious passages and ritual spaces.
The route then leads to Puka Pukara, an ancient military and control point, followed by Tambomachay, a site associated with water worship and Inca engineering, where natural springs still flow through finely carved channels. The tour concludes in the early evening with a return to your hotel, after an enriching exploration of Cusco’s cultural and historical highlights.
Extra Details
This tour is designed for travelers who want to maximize their time in Cusco without physical strain, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Afternoon departures allow visitors to acclimatize better to the altitude while enjoying calmer conditions at popular sites. Comfortable clothing, a light jacket, and a reusable water bottle are recommended due to changing temperatures and high-altitude weather. The Cusco Sunset City Tour is an excellent option for first-time visitors seeking a comprehensive cultural overview in a short amount of time.