Self Guided Walking Tour Cusco

Cusco’s rich Incan history and stunning colonial architecture make it perfect for exploring on foot.

Essential Route Information

This self-guided walking tour takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete at a leisurely pace.

Start your walk at Plaza de Armas, the historic main square of Cusco.

Recommended Starting Point: Plaza de Armas

• Best time to start: 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
• Elevation: 3,399 meters (11,152 feet)
• Wear comfortable walking shoes
• Bring water and sun protection

Walking Route Highlights

1. Plaza de Armas
   • Cusco Cathedral (entrance fee: 25 soles)
   • Church of La Compañía de Jesús
   • Colonial arcades with restaurants and shops
2. San Blas Neighborhood
   • Artistic quarter with craft shops
   • San Blas Church
   • Best viewpoint of Cusco
3. Qorikancha
   • Ancient Inca temple
   • Santo Domingo Church
   • Original Inca stonework

Free Sites Along the Route

• Plaza San Francisco
• San Pedro Market
• Twelve-angled stone
• Plaza Regocijo

Tips for Your Walk

• Start early to avoid afternoon rain (October-April)
• Carry small bills for entrance fees and purchases
• Take breaks to adjust to the altitude
• Download offline maps before starting

Safety Tips

• Keep valuables secure
• Stay in well-lit areas after dark
• Use official taxis for return trips
• Keep emergency numbers handy: Police (105), Tourist Police (+51 84 249654)

Optional Extensions

• San Pedro Market (add 30 minutes)
• Sacsayhuamán ruins (add 2 hours)
• Cristo Blanco statue (add 1 hour)

Download the official Peru Travel App for offline access to maps and additional information.

Cultural Experiences

• Visit local artisan workshops in San Blas
• Try traditional Peruvian snacks from street vendors
• Watch street performers in Plaza de Armas
• Practice basic Quechua phrases with locals

Food and Rest Stops

• Plaza de Armas: Multiple cafes with terrace views
• San Blas: Artistic cafes and juice bars
• Near Qorikancha: Traditional picanterías

Local Specialties to Try

• Choclo con Queso (corn with cheese)
• Empanadas
• Coca tea for altitude adjustment
• Fresh fruit juices

Photography Spots

• San Blas viewpoint at sunset
• Colonial balconies on Hatunrumiyoc Street
• Qorikancha gardens
• Plaza de Armas with mountain backdrop

Conclusion

This walking tour offers an ideal introduction to Cusco’s historical center, combining Incan heritage with colonial influences. The route can be customized based on interests and energy levels, while frequent rest stops help with altitude acclimation.

For the best experience, take time to interact with local culture and don’t rush between destinations. Consider returning to favorite spots at different times of day for varied perspectives and photo opportunities.

FAQs

1. What is the best time of year to do a self-guided walking tour in Cusco?
   The dry season from April to October is ideal, with May to July being the peak months. There’s minimal rainfall and comfortable daytime temperatures, though nights can be cold.
2. How should I prepare for the altitude in Cusco?
   Cusco sits at 11,152 feet (3,399 meters). Spend 2-3 days acclimatizing, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and consider coca tea. Consult your doctor about altitude medication before traveling.
3. What are the must-see stops on a self-guided walking tour of Cusco?
   Essential stops include Plaza de Armas, Cusco Cathedral, San Blas neighborhood, San Pedro Market, Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), and the San Francisco Church and Monastery.
4. Is it safe to walk around Cusco alone?
   The historic center is generally safe during daylight hours. Stay vigilant after dark, stick to well-lit main streets, and keep valuables secure. The tourist police patrol frequently visited areas.
5. Do I need to purchase any permits or tickets for a self-guided walking tour?
   While walking the streets is free, you’ll need to purchase a boleto turístico (tourist ticket) to access many historical sites. Individual site tickets are also available for specific locations.
6. What’s the best walking route to avoid steep hills in Cusco?
   Start at Plaza de Armas and head east on relatively flat streets. The San Blas neighborhood has steep inclines, so leave this for last or when you’re better acclimated.
7. How long does a comprehensive self-guided walking tour of Cusco take?
   A thorough exploration of the historic center typically takes 4-6 hours, but it’s best to spread it across multiple days to account for altitude adjustment and site visits.
8. What should I bring on my walking tour?
   Carry water, sunscreen, a hat, comfortable walking shoes, warm layers (temperatures can change quickly), money for entrance fees, and a detailed map or offline navigation app.
9. Where can I find reliable maps for a self-guided tour?
   Tourist information centers in Plaza de Armas provide free maps. Digital maps are available on apps like Maps.me or Google Maps, which work offline when downloaded in advance.
10. Are English signs common along walking routes in Cusco?
    Major tourist sites have English signage, but many street signs and historical markers are in Spanish only. Consider downloading a translation app or carrying a Spanish phrasebook.