Cusco’s historical tours let travelers connect directly with the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. The 6-day Machu Picchu cultural tours stand out as the most comprehensive option, covering both iconic ruins and local traditions. In the city itself, efficient half-day tours hit the must-sees: the ornate Cathedral and gold-filled Qoricancha.
I especially love the walking tours through local neighborhoods – they’re perfect for experiencing authentic Cusco life while learning about Inca architecture. Small groups and pisco sour tastings make these tours feel intimate and fun. The Sacred Valley day trips and evening tours of historic Cusco are equally rewarding, offering unique perspectives on this fascinating region.
Let’s explore the top historical tours worth your time in Cusco.
Key Points
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The Cultural Tours to Machu Picchu offer a 6-day, 5-night adventure with visits to Inca temples, museums, and traditional Andean dyeing in Chinchero.
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The Best of Sacred Valley Tour is a full-day exploration of cultural and historical highlights like Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo Fortress.
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The South Valley Cusco Historic Tour is a 6-hour journey showcasing Inca and colonial heritage, including the stone canal system at Tipón and the gold leaf frames at Andahuaylillas.
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The Historic City Tours in Cusco offer a comprehensive exploration of iconic landmarks like the Cathedral of Cusco and Qoricancha Museum, as well as archaeological sites like Sacsayhuaman.
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The Legends and History Night Tour in Cusco provides a 4-hour immersive experience featuring cultural heritage, Pisco Sour tasting, and a visit to the Cristo Blanco viewpoint.
6-Day Cultural Tour to Machu Picchu
Embarking on the Day Cultural Tour to Machu Picchu, travelers will explore the renowned Inca citadel at dawn.
Over 6 days and 5 nights, the tour offers a comprehensive cultural experience of Cusco, Machu Picchu, and the Sacred Valley.
Highlights include visiting Inca temples and museums in Cusco, witnessing traditional Andean dyeing and weaving in Chinchero, and taking a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes.
With a 100% recommendation rate from past travelers, the tour includes 3-star accommodations, all transportation, and a private guide.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the cultural experiences make this an excellent option for those interested in Inca history and Andean traditions.
Read our full review: 6-Day Cultural Tour to Machu Picchu Review
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Cusco: Half-Day Historic City Tour
Travelers frequently embark on the Cusco: Half-Day Historic City Tour to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of this ancient Incan capital.
This 7-hour tour takes visitors to iconic landmarks like the Cathedral of Cusco and the Qoricancha Museum, where they can explore Inca-era architecture and religious practices.
The tour also includes visits to archaeological sites like Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, and Puca Pucara, offering a comprehensive glimpse into Cusco’s militaristic and ceremonial past.
With a small group size, live English-speaking guide, and free cancellation, this tour provides an affordable and flexible way to discover the highlights of Cusco’s historic city center.
Read our full review: Cusco: Half-Day Historic City Tour Review
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Cusco: Historic Walking Tour With Pisco Sour and Local Music
The Cusco Historic Walking Tour with Pisco Sour and Local Music offers travelers a captivating exploration of the city’s vibrant streets and rich cultural heritage.
Led by expert bilingual guides, the tour takes visitors through the charming neighborhoods of San Blas and Plaza San Cristobal, where they can admire the panoramic views.
Participants will also have the opportunity to try the iconic Pisco sour or a non-alcoholic alternative, and enjoy the sounds of local music.
Suitable for solo travelers, families, and groups, the tour provides a personalized experience and a llama keychain souvenir.
With a 4.9-star rating and a Badge of Excellence, this tour is highly recommended by 97% of travelers.
Read our full review: Cusco: Historic Walking Tour With Pisco Sour and Local Music Review
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Cusco: Historical Guided City Tour With 4 Inca Ruins
This historical guided city tour of Cusco takes visitors on an immersive journey through the ancient Inca Empire.
Over 6 hours, guests explore 4 Inca ruins – Koricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, and Tambomachay – led by a professional guide.
The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, and entrance fees. Highlights include the Temple of the Sun and the impressive military fortress of Sacsayhuaman.
Guests enjoy a photography experience and learn about Inca history and culture. The tour is suitable for most ages, with children under 9 free.
With high ratings for value and transportation, this comprehensive tour provides an excellent way to discover Cusco’s Inca heritage.
Read our full review: Cusco: Historical Guided City Tour With 4 Inca Ruins Review
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Day Hike Cusco Historical Outskirts
Venturing beyond Cusco’s bustling city center, the Day Hike Cusco Historical Outskirts offers an immersive exploration of the ancient Inca empire’s lesser-known sites.
This 4-5 hour guided hike takes small groups of up to 8 travelers through the historical outskirts of Cusco, visiting a selection of Inca ruins. With all entrance fees and one-way transport included, the experience provides a hassle-free way to discover Cusco’s rich cultural heritage.
Suitable for moderately fit travelers aged 8 and up, the hike features full-time guide service, bottled water, and a provided lunch. Highly rated by past participants, this day hike is an excellent option for those seeking a deeper understanding of Cusco’s profound history beyond the city’s main attractions.
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From Cusco: Night Tour Private by the Historical Center
As evening descends, a private night tour unveils the historical wonders of Cusco’s city center. Priced at Kč 1,552 per person, this 5-hour excursion explores iconic landmarks like Qoricancha garden, Regocijo Square, and the Stone of Twelve Angles.
Guests will learn to prepare the signature Pisco Sour and sample local beers. While the tour is wheelchair accessible, it’s not suitable for the visually impaired, pregnant women, or those prone to motion sickness.
Participants should wear comfortable, warm clothing and leave prohibited items like alcohol and weapons at home.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this night tour offers a unique way to experience Cusco’s rich history.
Read our full review: From Cusco: Night Tour Private by the Historical Center Review
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5-Day Machu Picchu Private Guided Historical and Cultural Tour
Samex Tours Perú offers a comprehensive 5-day Machu Picchu Private Guided Historical and Cultural Tour, providing visitors with an immersive exploration of Cusco’s rich heritage.
The tour includes private transportation, hotel accommodations, select meals, and entrance fees to iconic sites like Qoricancha, Saqsayhuaman, and the Sacred Valley. Guests can expect a moderate level of physical activity and the opportunity to experience Machu Picchu with a private guide.
With a 5.0 rating and no negative reviews, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through Peru’s ancient Inca roots.
Available from May 2020 to June 2025, the tour is priced from $882.06 per person with a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 3 days in advance.
Read our full review: 5-Day Machu Picchu Private Guided Historical and Cultural Tour Review
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Cusco: Historic Walking Tour With Pisco Sour and Music Show
For those seeking a more intimate exploration of Cusco’s rich history, the Cusco: Historic Walking Tour with Pisco Sour and Music Show offers an immersive 2-hour experience.
Priced at $13 per person, the tour takes participants through the city’s major landmarks, including the Cathedral, Company of Jesus, and Qoricancha.
Along the way, guests will enjoy a Pisco Sour or Chicha Morada tasting and an Andean music performance.
The tour is limited to 10 participants and available in English and Spanish, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
With an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5, the experience provides a great way to explore Cusco’s fascinating past.
Read our full review: Cusco: Historic Walking Tour With Pisco Sour and Music Show Review
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Inkas Heritage 05D,04N : Discover Cusco & Machu Picchu!
With the Inkas Heritage 05D,04N tour, travelers can uncover the fascinating history and breathtaking landscapes of Cusco and Machu Picchu.
This 5-day, 4-night package offers a comprehensive exploration of the Inca heartland. Highlights include roundtrip train and bus tickets, entrance to Machu Picchu, and accommodations in 3- or 4-star hotels.
The tour also provides daily hotel pickups, bottled water, and all entrance fees for a hassle-free experience. Though not wheelchair accessible, the moderate physical fitness level required makes this tour suitable for most travelers.
At $705.07 per person, the Inkas Heritage tour provides an exceptional value with its Lowest Price Guarantee.
Read our full review: Inkas Heritage 05D,04N : Discover Cusco & Machu Picchu! Review
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Cusco: Full-Day Sacred Valley History Tour
Travelers seeking to explore the captivating history and vibrant culture of the Sacred Valley can embark on the Full-Day Sacred Valley History Tour from Cusco.
This 11-hour excursion takes visitors to iconic Inca sites, including Pisac and Ollantaytambo, while also offering a glimpse into traditional Quechua customs in Chinchero.
The tour includes transportation, a bilingual guide, a buffet lunch, and the necessary tourist ticket, making it a convenient and comprehensive way to explore the region.
With a maximum group size of 15 and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides a flexible and personalized experience for travelers.
Read our full review: Cusco: Full-Day Sacred Valley History Tour Review
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Cusco: Historical Walking Tour and Market Visit
Cusco’s captivating history and vibrant culture come alive on the immersive Historical Walking Tour and Market Visit. This 4-hour guided tour, limited to just 8 participants, offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s key landmarks.
Travelers will visit the iconic Inca temple of Coricancha, admire colonial architecture at the Plaza de Armas, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the San Pedro Market.
Along the way, a licensed guide provides insightful historical commentary and helps participants navigate the city’s high altitude with an accommodating pace.
With included entrance fees, hotel pickup, and the ability to skip ticket lines, this tour provides an enriching experience for just $39 per person.
Read our full review: Cusco: Historical Walking Tour and Market Visit Review
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The Best of Sacred Valley – Culture & History Full Day Tour
Enjoy the captivating history and vibrant culture of the Sacred Valley on this comprehensive full-day tour.
Discover the ancient Inca site of Pisac, explore the lively local market, and enjoy a lunch in the picturesque town of Urubamba.
Visit the impressive Ollantaytambo Fortress and explore the traditional weaving practices of Chinchero.
With a professional guide, limited group size, and round-trip transportation, this tour offers an in-depth exploration of the region’s top attractions.
Priced at $120 per person, the tour lasts 9 hours and is available in English, Spanish, and Quechua.
Flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance make this an ideal choice for your Cusco adventure.
Read our full review: The Best of Sacred Valley – Culture & History Full Day Tour Review
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Historical City Tour in Cusco | Private Tour |
Explore Cusco’s captivating history on this comprehensive 6-hour Historical City Tour.
You’ll visit four remarkable archaeological sites, including the Temple of Qoricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, and Tambomachay.
Led by an expert English-speaking guide, you’ll learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Inca Empire.
The small-group tour, limited to 10 participants, offers a personalized experience.
Conveniently, you’ll be picked up from your hotel near Cusco’s historic center and dropped off at the end of the tour.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve your spot without upfront payment, this tour is both flexible and accessible.
Uncover the wonders of Cusco’s past on this immersive half-day experience.
Read our full review: Historical City Tour in Cusco | Private Tour | Review
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Cusco: Legends and History Night Tour With Pisco Sour
This captivating Cusco: Legends and History Night Tour with Pisco Sour invites visitors to explore the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Over 4 hours, a local expert guide leads guests through key landmarks, sharing legends and historical insights. The tour includes a visit to the Cristo Blanco viewpoint, a guided tour of Iglesia de San Cristobal, and a leisurely stroll through the charming San Blas neighborhood.
The experience culminates with a Pisco Sour tasting at a local bar, complemented by an appetizer. Available as a private or shared tour, this night tour offers an immersive and personalized way to uncover Cusco’s captivating past.
Rated 5/5 by previous travelers, it’s a must for those seeking an authentic cultural encounter.
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From Cusco: South Valley Cusco Historic Tour
The South Valley Cusco Historic Tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the region’s rich Inca and colonial heritage.
Priced from $130 per person, this 6-hour tour includes hotel pickup, professional guides, and visits to the Inca ceremonial center of Tipón, the ancient Wari city of Pikillacta, and the baroque Church of Andahuaylillas.
Highlights include the stone canal system at Tipón and the gold leaf frames adorning the Andahuaylillas church, known as the “Sistine Chapel of America.”
With comfortable transportation and the option to add the Andahuaylillas ticket, this tour provides an immersive experience of Cusco’s cultural treasures.
Travelers should note the cancellation policy and bring suitable footwear.
Read our full review: From Cusco: South Valley Cusco Historic Tour Review
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Sum Up
Cusco offers a wealth of historical tours catering to a range of interests. From in-depth cultural explorations of Machu Picchu to immersive city walking tours, visitors can explore the region’s rich Inca and colonial heritage. These tours provide a comprehensive understanding of Cusco’s significant landmarks, traditions, and legends, making it an ideal destination for history enthusiasts.