Top Cusco Half-day Tours

Peru’s Sacred Valley lies in the Andean Highlands—a landscape of rugged mountains, open plains, and soaring cliffs—and reaching the remote sites is a challenge. Choose a morning or afternoon half-day safari, and tackle the rough ground by powerful all-terrain quad bike. With your guide to lean the way, reach historic sites including Moray and Maras with ease, enjoy sweeping views across the Peruvian countryside, and learn of life here under Incan rule.

Explore local Andean communities and ancient Inca ruins in the countryside outside Cusco during this horseback riding adventure. Learn about the daily rhythms of local life, observing farming techniques along with alpaca and sheep herding as you pass these tiny districts. You also discover Inca temples, soaking up the ancient energy of these spiritual sites, and visit the ‘Devil’s Balcony,’ a natural cave once used as an Inca shrine. Your horseback ride near Cusco also includes a guide, horseback riding gear, snacks and water, and round-trip transport from your hotel to the ranch.

There’s no better way to experience Machu Picchu, a New7Wonder of the World and iconic Inca citadel, than on a private tour from Aguas Calientes. Receive undivided attention from a personal guide as you discover the history of ancient temples, terraced hills, and sacrificial sites. Capture photographs from the best vantage points, come face-to-face with resident llamas, and absorb spectacular views of the Sacred Valley from your vertiginous perch. Round-trip bus transfers from Aguas Calientes are included.

Explore the legacy of the Inca and Peru’s indigenous culture during this day trip to Maras, Moray, and the ‘Salineras’ from Cusco. Walk the streets of Maras and sample some ‘Chicha’ (corn drink), then learn about Inca engineering and agricultural practices at the Moray archaeological site. You’ll also get to see the “Salineras” salt mines. An optional private trip upgrade is also available.

If you are looking for an adventure on your way to Machu Picchu at an unbeatable price, on a train with all the onboard comfort, the PeruRail Expedition train has just what you need. The train cars of the PeruRail Expedition train are steeped in the designs of Incan culture, the perfect way to start your trip to the Machu Picchu citadel. The PeruRail Expedition gives you the chance to take in the unbelievable scenery and take incredible panoramic pictures of a journey unlike any other. You will be waited on by a highly-trained staff member for the duration of your trip. Additionally, you will be able to enjoy a Food and Beverage service for sale, where you will find a wide variety of top quality products. You can find the catalogue here. Departures are scheduled everyday, with a variety of schedules and frequencies.

If you’ve already ticked off the sights by day, see a different side to Cusco on a nightlife tour that includes dinner and a drink. In an intimate group limited to eight people, you’ll go stargazing at Planetarium Cusco; admire illuminated landmarks in Cusco Historic Center; and enjoy a traditional Peruvian dinner accompanied by a Pisco Sour cocktail. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included for added convenience.

Drive your own ATV through Cruz Pata's Sacred Valley in the company of a guide on this tour of area highlights. The tour includes use of all equipment and instructions, and riders from beginners on up can enjoy the fresh air that comes with rugged ATV riding. Highlights include the Maras salt mines, Maras village, and Moray archaeological site.

Discover Peru's Sacred Valley of the Incas aboard a 4WD ATV. Set out from Cusco to Cruz Pata, where you'll hop onto your off-road vehicle and head into the countryside, navigating muddy paths and mountain trails to reach Moray—an Inca archaeology site featuring enormous circular ruins once used for agriculture. Spend some time exploring before continuing your adventure to the Salineras, an impressive series of salt mines at the bottom of a towering canyon. It's a whole new way to experience the Andean highlands.

Moray archaeological park and the Maras salt mines rank among the top attractions outside Cusco, with a history dating back to the days of the Incas. On this tour, hit the gas and zoom through the Peruvian countryside, and explore both sites in one day—with safety kit plus pickup and drop-off at your Cusco accommodation included. With your guide to lead the way, enjoy outdoor adventure in Peru and learn how the Incas worked the land.

Immerse yourself in the grand colonial majesty of Cusco on a half-day guided sightseeing tour of the city. Wander winding Incan streets to discover the ancient Temple of the Sun, the sacred Convent of Santo Domingo and the colossal Cusco Cathedral. Gain insight into the fascinating history of the city with an interesting and informative guide as you explore one of Peru’s most treasured places on foot.

Enjoy magnificent scenery and fascinating visits to Incan archaeological sites on this half-day horseback riding adventure from Cusco. Mount up for your ride with a horseman, who will lead you to the ruins of Qenko, Puca Pucara, Tambomachay and Sacsayhuaman where can wander on your own. Explore each site independently, making sure to soak up the beautiful mountain scenery and eucalyptus forests you encounter along the way. Your horseback riding trip also includes round-trip hotel transport and all necessary riding equipment.

Take an intimate look at Cusco’s colonial and Incan legacy during this 4-hour private guided history tour. Marvel at the Spanish architecture and art inside the city’s main cathedral, and check out the ‘Qoricancha,’ a one-time Inca temple that’s now a monastery. You’ll also visit the Inca sites of Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Pucapucara, and Tambomachay.

Marvel at the architectural and archeological majesty of Cusco on a half-day tour of the city’s most significant sites. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, visit fascinating ruins of Qenqo; the sacred temples of Puca Pucara, and the ecclesiastical structure of the Cusco Cathedral. Admire exquisite architecture and gain insight into Peru’s alluring history on this enriching excursion.

Immerse yourself in the impressive Incan architecture of Sacsayhuaman on an exciting excursion from Cusco. Explore the ancient fortresses and sacred temples of the archaeological park with a knowledgeable guide to discover legendary landmarks like the Tower of Puka Pukara. Seek out the source of natural spring water; navigate a mystifying stone labyrinth; and gain fascinating insight into the culture and customs of the Incas.

Tick off three of Peru’s alternative ancient wonders on a full-day tour of Tipon, Pikillacta, and Andahuaylillas from Cusco. Designed for history buffs, this tour covers the elaborate agricultural terraces at the Inca ruins of Tipon; the pre-Inca site of Pikillacta, which dates back to AD 900; and San Pedro de Andahuaylillas (Sistine Chapel of the Americas), set in the central square of a tiny Andean village. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included.

Uncover the history of Cusco, the ancient capital of the Incas and one-time Spanish colonial hub, as you explore the city’s key landmarks on this 4-hour excursion. Visit the site of Qurikancha, once the most important temple in the Inca empire, and today the site of a Dominican monastery. Then check out Cusco’s massive Main Cathedral, learning about its unique collection of art from the ‘Cusqueña’ school. You’ll also see the impressive stonework at the archaeological complex of Sacsaywaman, and check out a variety of other Incan religious and military sites. Your Cusco outing also includes hotel pickup, air-conditioned coach transport and a guide.

The PeruRail Vistadome train offers a full panoramic view, connecting with the scenery along the way to Machu Picchu, making passengers feel as if they were somehow part of the nature that surrounds them. On the return trips on the PeruRail Vistadome train, you can enjoy live dances inspired by the ancient culture of the Andes, with an onboard fashion show, featuring the exclusive baby alpaca wool collection with the latest trends in alpaca apparel, all available for sale. Passengers also receive a snack made from local ingredients, so you can get the full Andean experience through our cuisine. The trip also includes non-alcoholic beverages for your onboard refreshment.

See the iconic sights and hidden streets of Cusco from behind the handlebars of a bike during this 3-hour cycling excursion. Admire some of the most famous sites in the city around its iconic Plaza de Armas main square, then pedal along the lesser-known roads away from the main tourist walkways. As you cycle, your guide will share insights into the history of Cusco’s street names, point out the sophisticated architecture of the Incas and highlight the favorite local hangouts and watering holes of Cusco residents in the modern day.

Learn about the incredible engineering works of the ancient Incas during this half-day visit to the circular ruins at Moray and the salt mines of Maras. Stop at Maras to discover how the Incas ingeniously tapped a natural salt water stream to create evaporating pools for collecting salt, a system that is still used to this day. Then continue to the ruins of Moray, a site of circular terraces, some as deep as 98 feet (30 meters), that once offered a testing ground for agricultural products. Your Maras and Moray excursion also features a professional guide and round-trip hotel transport.

Tick off more Cusco attractions in less time on a private, half-day city tour, designed with history buffs in mind. With a private guide, you’ll visit ancient Inca archeological sites such as Sacsayhuaman and Tambomachay; explore the Historic Center of Cusco, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; and admire landmarks such as Cusco La Catedral and the Convent of Santo Domingo. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included.

Get a comprehensive tour of the main Incan sites around Cusco on this half-day excursion. Visit all the highlights and landmarks, including Tambomachay, Puccpucara, Quenqo, Sacsayuaman, and Koricancha. Hotel pickup in the historic center of Cusco available; travel via air-conditioned coach.

Embark on a guided tour of Cusco, the most important city in the Inca Empire and the gateway to Machu Picchu. Begin with an informative walk along its cobbled streets, viewing such landmarks as Koricancha—a revered temple with walls once covered in sheets of gold. Peruse colonial artworks and wander the Plaza del Armas, which remains the heart of the city, before enjoying some free time for lunch. Afterward, set out by private vehicle to visit a few of the area's main archaeological sites, including Sacsayhuaman—a citadel built of massive stones. The last stop on this tour is a visit to a local farmer's market, where you will see fresh vegetables, fruits, cheese, and the local meats (including pig heads). Included in this tour is a professional, English-speaking guide, private transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, and a guided tour.

Explore the archaeological legacy of the Inca during this 6-hour excursion to visit Maras and Moray. Learn about Inca agricultural practices at the ingenious terraced farm fields of Moray, then head to Maras, where you’ll get a closer look at more than 3,000 salt pools built by the Inca and still in use to this day.

Explore the Sacred Valley in Peru on a full-day ATV quad bike tour. Travel from Cusco into the Sacred Valley via private transportation and after a quick lesson jump on the back of a quad bike. Visit local landmarks including Pueblo de Maras and the salt mines known as Salineras. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are included.