Walking Tour In Cusco 1 Day

The Walking Tour in Cusco provides a distinctive chance to explore the Inca city in a new way, with flexible timing to suit your schedule and preferences.

To kick off the tour, we will collect you from your hotel and take you on a 20-minute trip to Cristo Blanco, situated on “El Calvario” hill, also known as Pukamuku hill. This statue of Christ was presented to the people of Cusco as a gesture of gratitude by the Arab Palestinian community. From this vantage point, you’ll be treated to a panoramic view of the city and the stunning landscape of Cusco, famously shaped like a puma. Our walk will commence as we pass the archaeological remains of Sacsayhuaman.

As we make our descent, we’ll arrive at the San Cristóbal viewpoint, where the Qolqas are located. We’ll wander through the charming streets of one of the most popular neighborhoods in ancient Cusco and visit the Colonial Aqueduct of Sapantiana, which derives its name from the Quechua words “Sanpan,” meaning “unique,” and “Tiana,” meaning “seat.” This aqueduct is positioned at an elevation of 3,500 meters above the P’ujru River.

This colonial hydraulic structure is primarily built with four-tiered arches, likely utilizing stone elements from the sacred Huaca of Sapantiana, located just a few meters away. This aqueduct was designed to channel and transport water between peaks. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to take photos and enjoy the stunning view from 7 Borreguitos Street (Seven Little Lambs Street) with its quaint alleys.

Next, we’ll head to the Artisan neighborhood of San Blas, also referred to as “T’oqokachi,” which translates to “Cave of Salt” in Quechua. This charming and picturesque district is home to the San Blas Church, with many artisans operating their workshops and craft shops here. It is filled with cafés, restaurants, museums, and art galleries. We’ll stroll through its narrow, steep streets lined with historic houses built by the Spanish atop significant Inca foundations. We’ll pause at the renowned Twelve-Angle Stone for some memorable photos.

Continuing our journey, we will make our way to the Plaza de Armas of Cusco, known as “Auccay Pata” during the Inca period, which translates to “The Most Important Site.” This expansive square measures about 250 meters long and 120 meters wide, divided into large courts and Inca enclosures. This location marked the origin of Cusco as a city and served as a hub for the exchange of products, ideas, traditions, and customs, evolving into the political and economic center before the Spanish arrival in 1534.

We’ll learn about the street names, the portals surrounding Plaza de Armas, and the hidden history. As the Best Destination in the World and the heart of the city, Cusco is an ideal place to unwind while enjoying coffee or a meal at the many restaurants in the area. We’ll then proceed to Plaza Espinar, where we’ll notice that the facade of the Convent of La Merced has bullet holes from a conflict between Pierolistas and Caceristas.

Our final stop will be the local San Pedro Market, where we’ll immerse ourselves in the vibrant culture of Cusco. This market operates daily and offers a wide array of goods, including local crafts, fresh juices, delicious cheeses, large breads, tropical fruits, herbs, spices, coca leaves, and even some unusual and exotic items. Prices are reasonable, and the quality of the products is outstanding.

Feel free to take as much time as you wish to explore the numerous small stalls in this market while shopping for traditional souvenirs.

Thus, we conclude our Walking Tour in Cusco.