Things to do in Cusco for self travelers

Embark on an enchanting journey through the heart of the ancient Inca Empire with this self-guided audio tour. Please note this tour DOES NOT include an entrance ticket! Purchase the ticket for Circuit 2 at reservas.machupicchu.gob.pe/inicio Also, note Internet access in Machu Picchu is limited due to its mountainous location - download the tour in advance. The tour begins at the parking where buses arrive from Aguas Calientes, and concludes with the hike to the Sun Gate, where the sun greets the ancient city at dawn. Hiking both ways to the Sun Gate usually requires 2-3 hours, which might sound feasible. However, considering the high altitude, it's essential to be reasonably fit for the trek. Alternatively, you can explore the main attractions of the Sacred Plaza and return to the starting point. To start with, the tour will take you through the Sacred Sector Hanan, where you will see the Temple of the Sun and the Royal Mausoleum among other great locations around the Sacred Plaza. Enjoy amazing views when you get to the Intihuatana group, the highest point of the Sacred Space. Marvel at the ancient sundial and feel the most powerful energy believed to pass through it. You will also discover the "Hurin," or the Residential Part of the city, and hear amazing stories behind the Inca construction methods making water naturally pump up the hill! Touch the stones, hear the whispers of the past, and see the world from the perspective of the ancient Incas.

Dive into the heart of ancient and colonial Peru with this self-guided audio tour of Cusco. This tour is tailored for history enthusiasts and travelers eager to experience the rich cultural tapestry of one of Peru’s most fascinating cities. The adventure begins at the Cathedral of Santo Domingo, a symbol of the city's layered past, and takes you on an immersive journey through Cusco's streets and history, ending with the mesmerizing view at Cristo Blanco. Following the narrative at your own pace, you'll uncover the precision of Inca stonework at the Stone of Twelve Angles, stand in the revered space of Qorikancha, and gaze upon the baroque splendor of The Church of La Compañía de Jesús. Meander through the charming San Blas neighborhood, peek at the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, and marvel at the grandeur of Sacsayhuamán's walls. Your path will take you from ancient temples to Spanish colonial churches, offering a glimpse into the stories that weave the fabric of Cusco. The crescendo of this cultural exploration awaits as you reflect upon the region's history with the inspiring panoramas from Cristo Blanco. Each stop promises unique insights into the Inca civilization and the colonial era, ensuring a memorable journey through time in the majestic city of Cusco.