Cusco: Archaeological Sites + Picnic + Painting

Explore the rich cultural tapestry of Cusco on an engaging 4-hour tour. Combining visits to archaeological sites, a picnic amidst the serene beauty of Qenqo, and the chance to paint traditional Pucara bulls, this small-group experience offers a personalized glimpse into the city’s ancient wonders. Enjoy the pre-Inca Pukara culture’s artistic traditions, savor local delicacies, and uncover the secrets of the Inca temple of Qoricancha. Led by a professional guide, this tour in English and Spanish provides insights that unlock the true essence of Cusco’s captivating past. Unlock the door to this cultural adventure, and discover why…

Key Points

• Explore the Inca temple of Qoricancha and learn about its architectural and historical significance.
• Enjoy a picnic at the Qenqo archaeological site while gaining insights into its history and cultural relevance.
• Immerse in the ancient Pukara culture by painting the iconic Pucara bulls using traditional techniques.
• Experience a private, small-group tour (maximum of 6 participants) for a personalized and enriching cultural experience.
• Benefit from hotel pick-up, professional guide commentary, and a flexible cancellation policy for a hassle-free exploration of Cusco’s heritage.

Tour Duration and Languages

The tour lasts 4 hours and is available in both English and Spanish.

This means visitors have the flexibility to choose their preferred language, ensuring they can fully engage with the experience. Whether you’re a native English or Spanish speaker, or somewhere in between, the guide will cater to your linguistic needs.

The tour’s duration of 4 hours allows ample time to explore the highlights without feeling rushed, giving you the opportunity to learn about the rich cultural heritage of Cusco.

With the language options and the well-paced itinerary, this tour caters to a wide range of travelers, making it an accessible and enjoyable experience for all.

Group Size and Highlights

This tour caps the group size at 6 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

Highlights of the outing include painting the iconic Pucara bulls, enjoying a picnic at Qenqo, and visiting the revered Inca temple of Qoricancha.

At Pucara, you’ll have the chance to paint the distinctive bulls that are a symbol of the region.

The picnic at Qenqo, an ancient Inca archaeological site, will provide a chance to relax and take in the stunning surroundings.

Finally, you’ll explore the Qoricancha, a temple once covered in gold that was the most important Inca site in Cusco.

This carefully curated tour offers a deep dive into Cusco’s rich cultural heritage.

Painting the Pucara Bulls

Participants on this tour will have the opportunity to paint the distinctive Pucara bulls, a iconic symbol of the region. These bull figures, originally created by the pre-Inca Pukara culture, are renowned for their unique, stylized appearance and intricate decorative patterns. During the tour, guests will be provided with a small Pucara tortoise figurine to paint using traditional techniques and vibrant colors. This hands-on activity allows visitors to connect with the artistic heritage of the Andes and take home a personalized memento. The painted Pucara bulls serve as a tangible representation of the cultural richness encountered throughout the Cusco experience.

Artistic Heritage	Cultural Richness	Personalized Memento
Pukara culture	Iconic Andean symbols	Painted Pucara tortoise
Unique design patterns	Traditional techniques	Connection to the land
Vibrant colors	Hands-on experience	Lasting souvenir
Stylized appearance	Immersive learning	Authentic representation
Pre-Inca origins	Memorable keepsake	Cherished experience

Picnic in Qenqo

After exploring the Inca temple of Qoricancha, you will enjoy a delightful picnic amidst the serene surroundings of Qenqo, an archaeological site renowned for its impressive stone carvings and ceremonial significance.

The picnic offers a chance to savor local delicacies and refreshments while immersed in the rich cultural heritage of the region.

The guide will provide fascinating insights into the history and significance of Qenqo, allowing participants to fully appreciate the tranquil setting.

This picnic experience not only nourishes the body but also the mind, as travelers deepen their understanding of Cusco’s ancient wonders.

Inca Temple of Qoricancha

The Inca Temple of Qoricancha, once the most important religious site in the Inca Empire, stands as a testament to the ingenuity and architectural prowess of the ancient civilization. This sacred precinct was dedicated to the worship of the sun god, Inti, and its walls were once covered in sheets of solid gold.

Visitors can explore the impressive ruins and learn about the following:

1. The temple’s unique hybrid architecture, blending Inca and Spanish styles after the Spanish conquest.

2. The impressive stonework, featuring perfectly fitted stone blocks that showcase the Inca’s masonry skills.

3. The temple’s role as the spiritual and administrative center of the Inca Empire.

4. The site’s continued significance in modern-day Cusco, where it remains an important cultural and historical landmark.

Hotel Pick-up and Private Service

Offering hotel pick-up within or near the Historic Center, the tour provides a private service to ensure a seamless and personalized experience for participants. This convenient feature eliminates the need for participants to navigate the city on their own, allowing them to relax and fully enjoy the cultural exploration.

The private service also ensures that the group size remains limited to 6 people, providing a more intimate and attentive experience. With a professional guide leading the way, participants can look forward to a well-organized and informative tour that caters to their needs and interests throughout the 4-hour duration.

Professional Guide and Inclusions

With a professional guide leading the way, the tour provides a wealth of insightful information and personalized attention throughout the 4-hour experience. Participants can look forward to in-depth commentary on the cultural and historical significance of the sites visited, ensuring a truly enriching and educational outing.

The tour includes the following:

1. A delightful picnic in the stunning setting of Qenqo.

2. The opportunity to paint a traditional Pucara tortoise, a unique cultural experience.

3. Entrance to the magnificent Inca temple of Qoricancha, a highlight of the tour.

4. Hotel pick-up and private service, ensuring a seamless and personalized experience.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

At a starting price of COP 5,287 per person, this tour provides excellent value for the comprehensive experience it offers. Plus, the tour’s flexible cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring peace of mind for participants.

This means travelers can book the tour now and pay later, reserving their spot without any upfront costs. Should plans change, they can receive a full refund if they cancel at least a day before the scheduled tour.

With these traveler-friendly pricing and cancellation terms, the Cusco: Archaeological Sites + Picnic + Painting tour is an attractive option for those seeking a well-rounded cultural experience in the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

The tour does not specify a minimum age requirement. However, it is a 4-hour tour with a picnic, so it may be most suitable for children aged 8 and above who can participate in the activities comfortably.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

The tour includes a picnic, so bringing your own food and drinks is not necessary. However, you’re welcome to bring any additional snacks or beverages you’d like to enjoy during the picnic portion of the tour.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

Yes, there are discounts available for seniors and students on this tour. They can receive a 10% discount off the regular tour price with valid identification.

Can I Visit Other Sites Not Listed in the Itinerary?

Unfortunately, the tour itinerary is fixed, and it doesn’t include visits to other sites beyond what’s listed. The tour is designed to provide a comprehensive experience at the highlighted attractions. Additional site visits may incur extra costs or require booking a separate tour.

How Will I Be Transported During the Tour?

During the tour, you’ll be transported via a private vehicle. The tour includes hotel pick-up from locations near or within the Historic Center, ensuring a convenient and hassle-free experience throughout the day.

Recap

This Cusco tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy the Inca and pre-Inca artistic traditions, visit archaeological sites, and enjoy a picnic in the serene setting of Qenqo.

Visitors can also create a personalized memento by painting traditional Pucara bulls. Led by a professional guide, the small-group tour provides a personalized experience and insights into Cusco’s ancient wonders.