Walking City Tour In Cusco

WALKING CITY TOUR IN CUSCO

Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, is a city where ancient history and vibrant modern culture collide. Nestled high in the Peruvian Andes at 3,400 meters (11,200 feet) above sea level, it serves as the gateway to the Sacred Valley and the world-renowned citadel of Machu Picchu. But Cusco is more than just a stopping point; it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its own right, a living museum of breathtaking architecture, and a cultural hub that captivates every visitor.

The city's past is etched into its very foundations. Under Incan rule, Cusco was a powerful spiritual and political center, famously designed in the shape of a puma, a sacred animal. The heart of the city was the magnificent Qorikancha, the "Golden Temple," once adorned with sheets of solid gold and silver. Though the Spanish conquistadors built the Convent of Santo Domingo over its remains, the original Inca stonework is a testament to the Incas' advanced engineering and is still visible today.

After the Spanish conquest in the 16th century, the city was transformed. Elaborate colonial buildings and churches rose upon the meticulously crafted Inca stone foundations, creating a unique architectural fusion seen throughout the historic center. Strolling through Cusco's narrow, cobblestone streets reveals this duality at every turn. The grand Plaza de Armas, once the heart of the Inca capital, is now flanked by the elaborate Cusco Cathedral and the Church of the Society of Jesus, magnificent examples of Spanish Renaissance and Baroque style.

For the adventurous, Cusco is the starting point for exploring many wonders, including the Inca Trail and hikes to stunning destinations like Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lake. But whether you're trekking through the Andes, tasting ancient superfoods like quinoa and local potatoes, or simply wandering through the historic streets, Cusco offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of a civilization that changed the world.

Program:

With the tour, we will walk to appreciate the colonial city of Cusco, built over the foundations of Incan palaces. We will be able to visit the Koricancha or Temple of the Sun, where you will appreciate the magnificent building work; and the Main Square, where we will visit the Cathedral, with impressive crafts on carved wood. Lastly, visit San Blas's neighborhood, where the best artists live.