Trip Itinerary
TRIP ITINERARY
Cusco Office → Koricancha → Sacsayhuamán → Q'enqo → Puka Pukara → Tambomachay → Cusco
1:00 PM – Meeting at the Machu Picchu Team Office
Meet your guide at the Machu Picchu Team office, located at Portal Nuevo 270, Plaza Regocijo, in Cusco’s historic center. After a short introduction, you will walk to Koricancha, the famous Temple of the Sun.
Guided Visit to Koricancha
Enjoy an approximately one-hour guided tour of Koricancha, one of the most important religious temples of the Inca Empire. Here, you will learn about the exceptional Inca stonework and the fascinating combination of Inca and Spanish colonial architecture.
Visit to Sacsayhuaman
After visiting Koricancha, you will board the tourist vehicle and travel to Sacsayhuaman, an impressive archaeological complex located above the city of Cusco. Your guide will explain its historical importance while you admire its enormous, precisely fitted stone walls and panoramic views of the city.
Exploration of Qenqo
Continue to Qenqo, an important Inca ceremonial center known for its carved stone passages, underground chambers, and ritual spaces. During the visit, you will learn about the religious ceremonies believed to have taken place at this mysterious site.
Visit to Puka Pukara
The next stop is Puka Pukara, commonly known as the Red Fortress. This archaeological site is believed to have served as a military checkpoint, administrative center, and resting place for travelers entering Cusco.
Visit to Tambomachay
Finish the archaeological portion of the tour at Tambomachay, a peaceful site famous for its finely constructed aqueducts, canals, and ceremonial fountains. It is believed to have been associated with water worship and may also have served as a retreat for Inca royalty.
6:00 PM – Return to Cusco
After visiting Tambomachay, you will return to Cusco by tourist transportation. The tour ends at approximately 6:00 PM in the historic center, close to the Machu Picchu Team office.
Tour Summary
- Meeting time: 1:00 PM
- Meeting point: Machu Picchu Team office, Portal Nuevo 270, Plaza Regocijo
- Tour duration: Approximately 5 hours
- Schedule: 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM
- Places visited: Koricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay
- Tour type: Guided half-day cultural and archaeological tour
- Maximum altitude: Approximately 3,700 meters above sea level
- Minimum altitude: Cusco, approximately 3,400 meters above sea level
- Transportation: Tourist transportation between the archaeological sites
- Weather: Usually mild and sunny during the day, with cooler and windier conditions at the higher sites
- Estimated return: Approximately 6:00 PM in Cusco’s historic center
Tour Inclusions
Inclusions
Included
Professional English-Speaking Guide
Your tour will be led by a certified professional guide who speaks both English and Spanish. Throughout the afternoon, your guide will explain the history, architecture, religious importance, and cultural significance of Koricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay. The explanations are clear, informative, and easy to understand, helping you gain a deeper appreciation of the Inca civilization and the historical development of Cusco.
Comfortable Tourist Transportation
The tour includes tourist transportation between the archaeological sites located outside Cusco’s historic center. Our vehicles are regularly maintained and driven by experienced local drivers, providing a safe and comfortable journey throughout the excursion. While traveling between the sites, you will also enjoy views of Cusco and the surrounding Andean landscape.
Small-Group Experience
The afternoon Cusco City Tour usually operates with approximately 12 to 14 travelers, with a maximum of 16 participants. Keeping the group size limited allows for better coordination, easier communication with the guide, and a more comfortable experience at each attraction. You will also have more opportunities to ask questions, take photographs, and receive assistance during the tour.
Return and Drop-Off in Cusco
The tour finishes at approximately 6:00 PM in Cusco’s historic center. The main drop-off point is close to the Machu Picchu Team office in Plaza Regocijo, located just one block from the Plaza de Armas. The exact return time may vary slightly depending on traffic and the pace of the group.
Free Luggage Storage
When you book the Cusco City Tour with Machu Picchu Team, you may leave your luggage safely at our main office at no additional cost. Since the tour begins and finishes near our office, you can conveniently collect your belongings after returning from the excursion.
Safety and Assistance
Your safety and comfort are important to us. The guide carries a basic first-aid kit and is prepared to assist with minor health concerns or unexpected situations during the tour. Although this is a cultural and archaeological excursion rather than a demanding hike, some attractions include stone steps, uneven surfaces, slopes, and elevations of up to approximately 3,700 meters above sea level. Your guide will provide safety instructions, maintain a comfortable pace, and offer assistance whenever necessary.
Not Included
Koricancha Entrance Fee:
Entrance to the Koricancha Temple is not included in the tour price and must be paid separately at the entrance.
- Entrance fee: 20 soles per person
Payment is made directly at Koricancha upon arrival. We recommend bringing cash in Peruvian soles to make the purchase quickly and easily.
Entrance Fee for the Four Archaeological Sites
To visit Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay, you must have a valid Cusco Tourist Ticket, also known as the Boleto Turístico del Cusco.
- Partial Tourist Ticket: 70 soles per person
This ticket includes admission to the four archaeological sites visited during the Cusco City Tour. If you already have a valid General Tourist Ticket for Cusco and the Sacred Valley, you may use it instead, provided it has not expired and the included sites have not already been used. The ticket can usually be purchased directly at the first archaeological site. Please bring cash in Peruvian soles, as card and digital payments may not be accepted.
Important Note: The Koricancha entrance ticket and the Cusco Tourist Ticket are separate payments. Therefore, travelers should budget approximately 90 soles per person for all entrance fees required during the tour.
What to Pack
What to Pack
ESSENTIAL PACKING LIST FOR THE CUSCO CITY TOUR – AFTERNOON DEPARTURE
- Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip, as some archaeological sites have stairs, stone paths, and uneven terrain.
- Dress in layers, including a lightweight shirt, warm sweater or fleece, and a jacket.
- Bring high-SPF sunscreen.
- Wear a hat or cap.
- Carry UV-protective sunglasses.
- Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
- Pack a lightweight waterproof jacket or rain poncho, especially during the rainy season from November to March.
- Carry cash in Peruvian soles for entrance fees, snacks, souvenirs, and personal expenses.
- Bring your passport or a valid identification document.
- Carry your booking confirmation and any entrance tickets you may already have.
Please avoid carrying large or unnecessary bags, as the tour involves entering several archaeological sites and moving between locations throughout the afternoon.
Prices
Pricing
CUSCO CITY TOUR GROUP PRICES | 2026–2027 SEASONS
We offer two pricing options for our Cusco City Tour: a standard rate for first-time travelers and a special promotional price for customers who have previously booked another experience with Machu Picchu Team. Returning customers may receive an exclusive discounted rate after their previous reservation has been verified.
STANDARD RATE: $15 USD per person
PROMOTIONAL RATE: $13 USD per person
Group Size
Our Cusco City Tour (Afternoon Departure) usually operates with groups of approximately 12 to 14 travelers, with a maximum of 16 participants. Groups are formed by visitors from different countries who choose this same afternoon departure time. Each group is accompanied by a professional bilingual guide who speaks English and Spanish. A limited group size allows for better organization, more direct interaction with the guide, and clearer explanations at Koricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay.
Guaranteed Daily Departures
We offer daily afternoon departures throughout the year, from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM, subject to availability. As a direct local tour operator, Machu Picchu Team coordinates its own guides, transportation, schedules, and daily operations. This allows us to provide reliable departures and a carefully organized service from Cusco.
Addons & Upgrades
How to Book
How to Book with Machu Picchu Team
HOW TO BOOK THE CUSCO CITY TOUR – AFTERNOON DEPARTURE
Online Booking: Booking your Cusco City Tour (Afternoon Departure) online is quick, easy, and secure.
- Click the BOOK NOW button.
- Choose your preferred date. This booking is for the afternoon departure, from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM, subject to availability.
- Complete the reservation form with your full name, nationality, hotel or accommodation in Cusco, and WhatsApp number.
- Pay securely using a debit or credit card. A 3.99% online payment processing fee applies.
- Once your payment is confirmed, you will automatically receive an email with your receipt and booking details.
- Our team will then send you a second message confirming the meeting time (around 1:00 PM), meeting point, and important information for the tour.
- Online reservations are accepted until 9:00 PM on the day before the tour, subject to availability.
Booking at Our Office in Cusco: You can also reserve the tour in person at our main office: Portal Nuevo 270, Plaza Regocijo, Cusco. Our staff will explain the complete itinerary, included services, entrance tickets, meeting time, optional expenses, and other important details before confirming your afternoon reservation.
Payment Methods
- Cash in Peruvian soles, US dollars, or euros
- Debit or credit card, subject to a 3.99% processing fee
Information Required to Book
Please provide the following information:
- Full name
- Nationality
- Hotel or accommodation in Cusco
- WhatsApp number with country code or a Peruvian mobile number
- Preferred tour date
Your contact details are important so we can send you the final meeting instructions and any updates related to the afternoon tour.
CHANGES, CANCELLATIONS, AND REFUNDS
Changes and Rescheduling
You may change your Cusco City Tour (Afternoon Departure) date, switch to the morning departure, or transfer your reservation to another available experience, such as the Sacred Valley, Moray and Maras, Rainbow Mountain, Palcoyo, or Humantay Lake.
Changes can be requested at no additional cost until 7:00 PM on the day before your scheduled 1:00 PM tour, subject to availability and any price difference between tours.
To request a change, contact us through:
📧 Email: info@machupicchuteam.com
🟢 WhatsApp: +51 974 217 700
Customer Cancellation Policy
- 100% refund: Cancellations made at least 24 hours before the 1:00 PM departure
- 50% refund: Cancellations made within 24 hours of departure but before 7:00 PM on the previous day
- No refund: Cancellations made after 7:00 PM on the day before the tour or in case of a no-show
Online payment and card processing fees may be non-refundable.
Cancellation by Machu Picchu Team
If Machu Picchu Team must cancel the Cusco City Tour (Afternoon Departure) due to severe weather, road closures, political unrest, safety concerns, or other circumstances beyond our control, we will offer you the option to reschedule, choose another available tour (including the morning departure), or receive a refund for the services that could not be provided.
Faqs and Travel Guide
Frequently Asked Questions CITY TOUR IN CUSCO – AFTERNOON DEPARTURE | 1:00 PM TO 6:00 PM
Does the Cusco City Tour Help With Acclimatization?
Yes. The Cusco City Tour (Afternoon Departure) is a good way to begin adjusting to the altitude before doing more demanding activities such as the Salkantay Trek, the Inca Trail, Rainbow Mountain, or Humantay Lake. The tour takes place in and around Cusco and includes short, easy walks between archaeological sites. Because the route stays close to the city, it is also a practical first activity for travelers who have recently arrived and want to see how their body responds to the altitude before their day continues. We recommend taking the tour at a relaxed pace, staying hydrated, and informing your guide immediately if you feel any discomfort.
Why Is Cusco Cathedral Not Included in the City Tour?
Cusco Cathedral is not included in this itinerary because it can be visited independently in the historic center. It is located in the Plaza de Armas and is easy to reach on foot. In some cases, entry may be available during morning religious services, usually between 6:00 and 8:00 AM, so travelers on the afternoon departure who wish to visit the Cathedral beforehand can do so earlier that same day, before the 1:00 PM tour start time. Visiting conditions and access may vary, so we recommend checking the current schedule directly before your visit. The City Tour instead focuses on Koricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay.
Why Should I Take the Cusco City Tour?
The Cusco City Tour (Afternoon Departure) is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to discover the main Inca and colonial attractions around the city. During the tour, you will visit important archaeological sites, learn about the history of the Inca capital, and receive clear explanations from a professional bilingual guide. Visiting these places independently can be more complicated and expensive because they are located in different areas outside the city center. You would need to arrange several taxis or private transfers and manage the schedule on your own. With an organized tour, transportation, timing, and guided visits are already coordinated, allowing you to enjoy the experience more comfortably — and the afternoon schedule also leaves your morning free for rest, breakfast, or independent exploration of the historic center.
Do I Need to Be Physically Fit?
The tour includes short and generally easy walks. However, some archaeological sites have stairs, stone paths, slopes, and uneven terrain. You do not need to be an experienced hiker, but a basic level of mobility is recommended. Our guides maintain a comfortable pace and assist travelers whenever needed. Please let us know in advance if you have any medical condition, mobility limitation, or concern related to the altitude.
Can I Cancel or Reschedule My Cusco City Tour?
Yes. You may cancel or reschedule your reservation without an additional charge when the request is made at least 24 hours before the scheduled 1:00 PM departure. All changes are subject to availability. Online payment or card processing fees may be non-refundable.
Travel Guide
Gallery
Photo Gallery
WHY BOOK THE CUSCO CITY TOUR WITH MACHU PICCHU TEAM?
Direct Local Tour Operator from Cusco
Machu Picchu Team is a 100% local company based in Cusco. We directly organize and operate the Cusco City Tour (Afternoon Departure) with our own guides, drivers, and operations team. By booking directly with us, you avoid unnecessary intermediaries. This allows us to maintain better control over the service, provide clear communication, and ensure that the tour is delivered exactly as described.
Professional Local Guides
Our certified bilingual guides have extensive knowledge of Cusco’s Inca and colonial history. During the tour, they will explain the importance of Koricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay in a clear, engaging, and easy-to-understand way. You will also have time to ask questions, take photographs, and better understand the history and culture of the ancient Inca capital as the afternoon light settles over the archaeological sites.
Competitive and Transparent Prices
We offer fair and competitive rates based on the local tourism market. Our prices reflect the real cost of providing professional guidance, comfortable tourist transportation, and a well-organized experience. We avoid unnecessary commissions and hidden charges, so you know exactly what is included before confirming your reservation.
Daily Afternoon Departures
We operate the Cusco City Tour every day of the year, with an afternoon schedule from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM, subject to availability. Daily departures give you greater flexibility when planning your stay in Cusco, allow you to keep your morning free for rest or independent exploration, and make it easier to reschedule your tour when needed.
Small Groups and Better Attention
Our groups usually include approximately 12 to 14 travelers, with a maximum of 16 participants. This limited group size allows for better coordination, closer interaction with the guide, and a more comfortable visit at each archaeological site.
Comfortable and Well-Organized Transportation
The tour includes tourist transportation between the main archaeological sites outside Cusco’s historic center. Our team coordinates the schedule and transfers throughout the experience, allowing you to visit several important attractions without arranging separate taxis or private transportation.
Optional Trips
We offer additional tour options that maintain the same high quality you've come to expect. Explore new possibilities with us without compromising on excellence!"
New Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: For travelers looking for more than a traditional trekking experience, we offer an exciting alternative that combines some
Sacred Valley of the Incas full day tour takes you through one of the most fascinating regions of Cusco, combining ancient history, living Andean traditions, im
Sandoval Lake Full Day Tour Puerto Maldonado: The Sandoval Lake Full Day Tour Puerto Maldonado is an excellent option for travelers who want to experience the
Gocta Waterfall Full Day Tour with Machu Picchu Team is an ideal experience for travelers who want to discover one of the most impressive natural attractions in
Machu Picchu Express is designed for travelers who want to experience the highlights of Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu in a well-organized and effic
NAZCA LINES TOUR – SCENIC FLIGHT OVER THE NAZCA LINES: Discover one of Peru’s most fascinating archaeological mysteries on our Nazca Lines Tour, an unf