The Monumental City Tour
Experience the full grandeur of the Inca Empire with the absolute comfort of a private driver and an expert local guide. Tailored to your schedule, choose between a morning or afternoon departure to discover the most impressive attractions Cusco has to offer.
This comprehensive itinerary takes you just outside the city to the awe-inspiring archaeological complex of Sacsayhuaman, a site of immense sacred and ceremonial value. Marvel at the sheer scale of the megalithic stones and enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the red-tiled roofs of Cusco below.
Back in the historical center, we will explore the striking Plaza de Armas, uncover the artistic secrets hidden within the Cathedral, and walk the golden halls of Qoricancha. To complete your cultural immersion, we will dive into the vibrant local atmosphere of the San Pedro Market.
- Private transport and hotel pick-up
- Explore the massive stones of Sacsayhuaman
- Enjoy spectacular panoramic city views
- Discover the unique art of the Cathedral
- Visit Qoricancha, Temple of the Sun
- Experience the authentic San Pedro Market
Complete Itinerary
From Fortress to Market
Average Altitude: 3,400 m. (11,150 ft.)
Sacsayhuaman: The Megalithic Fortress
Your private driver and guide will pick you up at your hotel to begin our journey just above the city. Our first destination is the breathtaking archaeological complex of Sacsayhuaman, a site that holds profound sacred and ceremonial value to this day.
Prepare to be amazed as you stand beside colossal limestone blocks—some weighing up to 70 tons—that were carved and fitted together with such astonishing precision that not even a piece of paper can slide between them. From this elevated vantage point, you will also be afforded a spectacular, sweeping view of the entire city of Cusco.
Plaza de Armas & The Cathedral
We will then descend back into the heart of the city to visit the iconic Plaza de Armas and the magnificent Cathedral that overlooks it. Built over an ancient Inca palace, this unique building is a treasure trove of colonial history.
Inside, you will be able to appreciate numerous stunning examples of the Cusco Art School (Escuela Cusqueña). Your guide will point out fascinating details, including a highly unusual and interesting local version of Christ’s Last Supper, which subtly incorporates traditional Andean elements.
Qoricancha: The Golden Temple
Our next stop is another profoundly sacred site: Qoricancha. Known as the former Incan Temple of the Sun, this complex was the religious center of the empire, its walls once completely clad in solid gold.
Although the Spanish built the Convent of Santo Domingo directly on top of it, the flawlessly polished Inca stonework remains. Walking through these corridors, you can still feel why this location is considered sacred ground to this day.
The Vibrant San Pedro Market
To conclude our tour, we will head to the bustling San Pedro Market. Here, you will get a genuine taste of what everyday life is like in Cusco.
As we navigate the colorful aisles, your guide will help you become acquainted with a wide variety of native local produce, explaining the incredible nutritional value of Andean superfoods. Following the market visit, your driver will comfortably take you back to your hotel, leaving you with the rest of the day to enjoy at your leisure.
Tour Pricing
Enjoy a premium driven tour with total comfort and privacy.
- Private Transport & Driver
- Expert English-Speaking Guide
- Visit Sacsayhuaman Fortress
- Cathedral & Qoricancha Visit
- San Pedro Market Experience
What's Included
- Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel in Cusco.
- Comfortable Private Transportation throughout the tour.
- Professional Private English-Speaking Guide.
- Guided visits to Sacsayhuaman, Cathedral, Qoricancha, and the market.
- Entrance Tickets (Cusco Tourist Ticket / Cathedral / Qoricancha and Sacsayhuaman).
- 24/7 Travel Assistance.
Not Included
- Meals or beverages during the tour.
- Gratuities / Tips for your guide and driver (voluntary).
