Cusco Walking Tour – Tip-Based (Not Fixed Price) Walking Tour of Downtown, Sun Temple & San Blas | Local Guide Since 2016

Discover Cusco on foot with Jose Martinez, a local guide and former licensed trekking guide to Machu Picchu who has completed over 400 journeys to the Inca citadel. This pay-what-you-want walking tour offers a clear and authentic introduction to the former capital of the Inca Empire, blending Inca heritage, Spanish influence, and everyday Andean life.

The tour begins in Plaza de Armas, once the ceremonial center of Tawantinsuyo and the starting point of the four great Inca roads that connected the empire. Walk along Calle del Sol (Intikijllu), following original Inca stone walls that show precise engineering and earthquake resistance.

Visit Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun) from the outside and learn how this important site combined astronomy, ritual, and imperial power before being transformed during the Spanish conquest. Continue through Cusicancha, an ancient Inca neighborhood and palace area where large stone blocks reflect advanced urban planning.

Stop at the iconic Twelve-Angled Stone, one of Cusco’s most recognized examples of Inca precision, before heading into San Blas, the city’s artistic quarter. Walk through narrow streets, small workshops, and finish at the viewpoint, where you get a clear view of Cusco’s layout and surrounding landscape.

Throughout the walk, Jose shares practical insights and stories that connect history with present-day life in Cusco in a simple and easy-to-follow way.

At the end of the tour, there is also the option to join a Peruvian cooking class, including a visit to a local market and preparation of dishes such as ceviche.

Duration: About 2 hours 15 minutes

Language: English and Spanish

Guide: Jose Martinez (local expert)

Meeting Point

In front of the Inca statue at Plaza de Armas, Cusco.
Look for the guide wearing a red T-shirt with the “Cusco Guide” logo.

Departure Times

7:45 AM – Early Bird Tour
10:00 AM – Morning Main Tour
12:30 PM – Midday Tour
3:00 PM – Afternoon Main Tour
6:00 PM – Cusco by Night Tour

Price

Pay what you feel.
No fixed price — you decide the value of the experience.

What to Bring

Comfortable shoes, water, sunscreen, and a light jacket (weather can change quickly).