The tour starts at the iconic monastery of Santo Domingo. This monastery was built by the Spanish rulers on the remains of the Incan temple of the sun, Qoricancha or Koricancha. Qoricancha was the most sacred temple for the Incas. The remains of its fine stonework can still be seen, within the elegant baroque church and convent erected on the same site by the Spaniards after the conquest.

We will then visit the Cathedral of Cusco. It is located right on the main square of Cusco, Plaza De Armas. The construction of this cathedral began shortly after the Spanish conquest. It was finished in 1571.

We will then leave the historic center of Cusco. We will drive up one of the surrounding hills to visit vestiges of the great monumental sites. During the imperial rule, the Inkas built them. The most imposing is the fortified temple site of Sacsayhuaman. It was erected on the hill overlooking the northern side of the city’s main square. The walls are made of blocks weighing up to one hundred tons each. Other Inca sites include the semi-subterranean temple of Qenqo. We will then visit the fortified structure of Pukapukara and Tambomachay.

Eating and entertainment:

Cusco offers visitors a range of places to eat. Tourism has made Cusco, the country’s most cosmopolitan city. In addition to Peruvian cuisine, you can savour Indian, Mexican and Italian food. Cusco is also famous for its nightlife. Bars and clubs are filled with people dancing to live music. Cusco is also a great shopping destination. You can find things ranging from traditional handcraft markets to upscale market. There are shops selling clothes made from llama and alpaca wool.

Places covered:

• Santo Domingo Monastery. (Qoricancha Temple)
• Cathedral of Cusco.
• Sacsayhuaman.
• Q’enqo.
• Tambomachay.
• Puca Pucara.