How to Plan Your Cusco Open Bus City Sightseeing Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Cusco, Peru and want to experience the city’s culture and history, then the Cusco Open Bus City Sightseeing Tour is a must-visit experience! This tour takes you to some of the most popular landmarks and viewpoints within the city, offering you fantastic views and a fun-filled day. In this blog post, we will guide you through how to plan and organize your Cusco Open Bus City Sightseeing Tour.

Overview of the Tour

The Cusco Open Bus City Sightseeing Tour is a guided tour that lasts for approximately 4 hours. You’ll get to see some of the major landmarks within the city of Cusco, learn about the Andean culture and traditions as well as get fantastic views of the city from several viewpoints. The tour includes an itinerary that has been carefully curated to give you the best introduction to Cusco and its surrounding areas. You’ll be guided by an experienced tour guide who will take you through the city’s history and show you places that you might never have explored on your own.

Tour Highlights

The following highlights are some of the things that you can expect to experience during the tour:

1. See Major Landmarks

On this tour, you’ll visit some of Cusco’s most famous landmarks, including the Plaza de Armas, which is the main square in the city. You’ll also explore the Santo Domingo Monastery, Qoricancha, and San Pedro market. You’ll get to learn about the city’s history and how these landmarks have played a significant role in shaping the city.

2. Fantastic Views of the City

With scheduled stops at some of the city’s best viewpoints, you’ll get a chance to take in the incredible views of the entire city. This is the perfect opportunity to snap some fantastic photos and capture your memories of Cusco forever.

3. Learn About Andean Culture and Traditions

You’ll also get to learn about the culture and traditions of the Andean people as you are taken through some of the most important cultural and religious sites in Cusco. This includes Qoricancha, the Temple of the Sun, and other significant sites which tell the story of the Inca empire and its people.

Tour Details

Now that you know what to expect on the Cusco Open Bus City Sightseeing Tour, let’s take a closer look at some of the tour details.

1. Tour Duration and Itinerary

The tour lasts for approximately 4 hours, which includes visits to the main landmarks within the city such as the Plaza de Armas, the San Pedro Market, and the Santo Domingo Monastery. You’ll be taken through some of the city’s most famous cultural and religious sites, including Qoricancha and the Temple of the Sun.

2. Transportation

The Cusco Open Bus City Sightseeing Tour uses an open-top tour bus to take you around the city. The bus is equipped with audio guides that provide information about the landmarks and sites that you’re visiting. The bus is also wheelchair accessible.

3. Food and Drinks

This tour does not include any food or drinks, so make sure to bring your own snacks and water.

4. Tour Schedule

The tour is available every day at 9:00 am and 2:00 pm. Make sure to be at the meeting point 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

5. Suitability

This tour is not recommended for people with mobility impairments, as some of the sites require walking and climbing stairs. The tour is also not suitable for wheelchair users.

Booking Your Cusco Open Bus City Sightseeing Tour

Ready to book your Cusco Open Bus City Sightseeing Tour? You can easily book your tour using the following link: book the tour here. Once you arrive at the booking page, please select your preferred date and time and make your payment. After booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email with all the tour details and meeting point instructions.

Book Your Tour Now

The Cusco Open Bus City Sightseeing Tour is an excellent way to experience Cusco’s history, culture, and beauty. With a carefully curated itinerary, this tour is perfect for visitors who want to learn more about the city and its people. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to plan and organize your next trip to Cusco!

Frequently Asked Questions about Cusco

Cusco, located in southeastern Peru, is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and strong Incan influence. As a popular tourist destination, it can be overwhelming to plan a trip. Here are some frequently asked questions and answers to help make planning your trip to Cusco easier.

1. What is the best time to visit Cusco?

The dry season from May to October is the best time to visit Cusco. During this time, there is little rain and the temperature is comfortable. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. The wet season from November to April brings heavier rain and lower temperatures. Although it is considered the low season, many travelers still visit during this time due to off-peak prices and fewer tourists.

2. How do I get to Cusco?

You can reach Cusco by air or by land. The main airport is Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport, which has direct flights from other major cities in South America. Many travelers also fly into Lima and take a connecting flight to Cusco. Another option is to take a bus from Lima, which takes about 20 hours.

3. Do I need a visa to visit Cusco?

Most visitors do not need a visa to enter Peru for tourist purposes. However, travelers from some countries may need to obtain a visa before traveling to Peru. Check the Peruvian embassy website for a list of visa requirements.

4. What should I pack for my trip to Cusco?

Cusco’s high altitude and mountain weather can cause variations in temperature throughout the day. Be sure to pack warm clothing and layers, as well as a waterproof jacket, comfortable shoes, hats and sunblock.

5. What are the must-see attractions in Cusco?

Cusco is full of must-see attractions, including Machu Picchu, the iconic Incan ruins, Sacsayhuaman, Plaza de Armas, and the Inca Museum.

6. Is it safe to travel to Cusco?

Generally, Cusco is a safe city for travelers. However, it is still important to take precautions like anywhere else in the world. Keep valuables close to you and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

7. What is the best way to get around Cusco?

The best way to get around Cusco is by foot. The city is compact and many attractions are within walking distance. Taxis and public transportation are also available.

8. What food should I try in Cusco?

Cusco is known for its unique cuisine, with dishes like cuy (guinea pig), alpaca, and ceviche. Other must-try dishes include chicha (a fermented corn drink) and empanadas.

9. Can I use US dollars in Cusco?

While many places in Cusco accept US dollars, it is still recommended to have Peruvian soles on hand, especially for smaller purchases. You can exchange currency at banks, exchange booths, or withdraw money from ATMs.

10. Are there any cultural customs I should be aware of in Cusco?

Peruvian culture is rich and diverse, so it’s important to be respectful of local customs. In Cusco, people commonly greet each other with a handshake and a kiss on the cheek. Additionally, dress modestly and remove shoes before entering a home or temple.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Cusco

Cusco is a charming city in the heart of Peru and it’s the gateway to Machu Picchu. It’s a must-visit destination for any traveler who wants to experience the rich culture, history, and natural beauty of Peru. To help you make the most of your time in Cusco, we’ve put together a detailed guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in this beautiful city.

1. Explore the Historic Center of Cusco

Cusco’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for a good reason. It’s home to numerous stunning colonial-era buildings and beautiful plazas. The center also features a vast array of museums, art galleries, and restaurants to explore. The best way to see the center is on foot, as many of the roads are pedestrianized. Some of the must-visit places in the historic center include:

1.1 Plaza de Armas

Plaza de Armas, also known as the “Square of the Warriors,” is the beating heart of Cusco. It’s a beautiful open space, surrounded by colonial-era buildings, restaurants, and cafes. At the center of the plaza, there’s a beautiful colonial-era fountain, where locals and tourists alike gather.

1.2 Cusco Cathedral

Cusco Cathedral is a beautiful colonial-era church located in the Plaza de Armas. The church’s architecture is stunning, with Spanish Baroque-style domes and an intricate façade. The cathedral is home to numerous religious artifacts, including a beautiful silver altar, making it a must-visit place in the city.

1.3 Santo Domingo Church

Santo Domingo Church is a beautiful church located near the Plaza de Armas. It’s an excellent example of the blend of Spanish and Incan architecture that’s found throughout Cusco. It was originally built on the site of the Incan temple of Coricancha, and visitors can still see the original Incan walls and artifacts inside the church.

2. Visit the Inca Ruins of Sacsayhuaman

Sacsayhuaman is a vast Inca fortress that’s located just outside Cusco. It’s an excellent example of the skill and engineering prowess of the Inca people. The fortress is home to numerous terraces, walls, and towers, which have been perfectly cut from the surrounding rock. Visitors can also see the Inca’s water system, which is still functioning today. Sacsayhuaman is an excellent place to spend a day hiking, exploring, and learning about the Inca people’s history.

3. Take a Trip to Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is one of the world’s most famous landmarks, and it’s located just a short distance from Cusco. The ancient city is perched high in the Andes Mountains and boasts stunning views and awe-inspiring ruins. Visitors can take a guided tour of the site, hire a local guide, or explore the ruins independently. It is important to note that the Peruvian government has limited the number of daily visitors to Machu Picchu, so it’s essential to book your tickets in advance.

4. Explore the Markets of Cusco

Cusco’s local markets are a wonderful place to explore and experience the city’s culture. The city is home to numerous markets, each with its unique character and offerings. Some of the best markets include:

4.1 San Pedro Market

San Pedro Market is one of the largest and most popular markets in Cusco. It’s a great place to sample local foods, buy souvenirs, and experience the hustle and bustle of local life.

4.2 Pisac Market

Pisac Market is located just a short distance from Cusco in the Sacred Valley. It’s known for its unique and colorful textiles, pottery, and jewelry. It’s a great place to spend a morning or afternoon shopping and exploring the local culture.

5. Take a Cooking Class

Peruvian cuisine is world-renowned, and taking a cooking class in Cusco is a great way to learn about the unique flavors and techniques that make the food so delicious. Visitors can learn how to make traditional dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado, and ají de gallina. Some of the best cooking classes in Cusco include the Marcelo Batata Cooking School and the Cusco Culinary Tour.

Book Your Tour Now

Cusco is a fascinating and unique city that’s well worth visiting. The city is home to a wealth of history, culture, and natural beauty. From exploring the historic center to visiting the Incan ruins of Sacsayhuaman and Machu Picchu, there’s no shortage of things to do in Cusco. Make sure to explore the city’s markets and take a cooking class to experience the local culture and cuisine fully. With this guide, you’re well on your way to a trip of a lifetime in Cusco.