Tour Details

The city of Cusco has a rich history that cannot be easily summarized. Before the Inca Empire, the current location of Cusco was inhabited by different native cultures. Some of them were the Marcavalle, Chanapata, and Qotakalli peoples. These first populations were groups of organized farmers and shepherds who mainly inhabited the eastern side of the valley of Cusco. 

Around 750 AD, the Wari civilization occupied the area. They built the stone city of Pikillacta, located 20 km (12.42 miles) east of Cusco. After the Wari, the Killke culture occupied the region. Some Killke artifacts have been discovered in the area surrounding the Sacsayhuaman fortress, located north of the city of Cusco. 

The Inca civilization founded the city of Cusco around 1200 AD. According to the legends, the founders of the city were the mythical figures of Manco Capac and Mama Ocllo. The legend tells that they were born from the waters of Lake Titicaca. 

During the reign of Inca Pachakutec, the Incas began a fast expansion process that created the Inca Empire. This empire was known as “Tawantinsuyu”, a Quechua term that means “four regions”. The Incas managed to conquer most of the western side of South America. Their territory covered lands that nowadays are part of Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Chile, Bolivia, and Argentina. 

The Inca civilization continued its expansion during the reign of Tupac Inca Yupanqui and Huayna Capac. However, the Incas expansion efforts met an abrupt end at the beginning of the XVI century. In 1532 the Spanish led by Francisco Pizarro captured Inca Atahuallpa, putting an end to the Inca Empire.

During the Spanish colonial era, Cusco was completely rebuilt. The Inca structures inside the city were partially demolished. Then, houses and temples of Spanish style were built on top of them. The Inca monuments situated around the city were also destroyed, however their original layout remains intact to this day.

Nowadays, the city center of Cusco displays a mixture of Inca and Spanish heritage. The main square or “Plaza de Armas” is surrounded by narrow streets decorated by Inca stone walls. The traditional markets in Cusco also sell clothes and food of Inca origin. To this day, Cusco is still considered the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. 

During our day tour in Cusco, you will explore its incredible Inca archaeological sites. These sites include Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara and Tambomachay. You will also visit the Cusco Cathedral and the Convent of Santo Domingo. 

A city tour in Cusco is something that cannot be skipped during a trip to Peru. Cusco is the starting point to any tour to Machu Picchu and the numerous Inca ruins of the Sacred Valley. Be aware that a Cusco Tourist Ticket is necessary to visit the attractions Cusco has to offer. 

Why Inkanto Travel?

We are a local travel agency specialized in tours to the region of Cusco. Our guides are experts in local history. They are certified professionals authorized by the local government to guide tours to the Inca ruins of Cusco. Enjoy an unforgettable trip to the ancient Inca city of Cusco. We also offer the 4 Days Salkantay Trek and the 8 Days Choquequirao Trek.