Cusco: City Tour Photography Experience offers an approachable way to see some of the most fascinating sites around Cusco — from its ancient Inca ruins to panoramic viewpoints — all in about five hours. For just $20 per person, you gain access to vibrant history, breathtaking views, and some fun animal encounters. The tour runs twice daily, with flexible start times, making it easy to fit into your Cusco itinerary.

What we love about this experience is how it balances culture with photo-worthy vistas. The visit to Qoricancha, the heart of Cusco’s spiritual history, provides a deep sense of place, while the stops at Cristo Blanco and the Eucalyptus Forest deliver sweeping views perfect for photography. Plus, the chance to interact with adorable camelids like llamas and alpacas near Saqsayhuaman adds a personal touch that makes the tour memorable.

A small caveat is that this isn’t a tour for those seeking extensive archaeological exploration. It’s more of a curated, scenic snapshot of Cusco’s iconic sites. Also, since entrance fees aren’t included for attractions like Qoricancha and Sacsayhuamán, travelers should consider those additional costs.

Ideal for travelers who want a light, accessible overview of Cusco’s top sights, especially if you enjoy photography or simply want a relaxed way to experience the city’s surroundings without demanding physical activity.

Key Points

Accessible and relaxed: No high physical exertion needed, suitable for most travelers.
Cultural and scenic highlights: Visits to Qoricancha, Sacsayhuamán, and viewpoints like Cristo Blanco.
Animal encounters: Close contact with llamas and alpacas near Tambomachay.
Flexible schedule: Tours available morning and afternoon, with pickup from your hotel.
Value-focused: For $20, you get a guided experience plus transportation.
Additional costs: Entrance fees not included, so budget extra for sites like Qoricancha and Sacsayhuamán.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Practical Breakdown of the Tour

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Starting Off: Comfortable Access and Location

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup within the historic center of Cusco, which is a real plus. No fussing with taxis or finding meeting points — the guide, who speaks both English and Spanish, handles the logistics. This smooth start sets the tone for a stress-free experience.

The Visit to Qoricancha: A Cultural Anchor

You’ll walk over to Qoricancha, the most important temple of Tahuantinsuyo, for about an hour. Here, you get a vivid glimpse into Inca spiritual life, with its impressive stonework and colonial overlays. Though the entrance fee (S/15) isn’t included, the guide will likely share stories that bring the site to life.

Sacsayhuamán and Surroundings: Majestic Views and Inca Engineering

Next, a short bus ride takes you to Sacsayhuamán, the impressive fortress famed for its massive stones. While entrance is S/70, the real highlight is the view from the Cristo Blanco lookout nearby. From this vantage point, you’ll see sprawling Cusco beneath you, perfect for photos and soaking in the landscape.

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The Eucalyptus Forest: A Refreshing Green Escape

A stroll through the Bosque de Eucaliptos offers a contrast to the stone ruins, with a cool, green environment. It’s a relaxing place to take photos, breathe in fresh air, and enjoy nature within a city tour.

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Cusco: City tour photography experience

Inca Sites: Qenqo, Pucapucara, and Tambomachay

The tour then visits three more Inca sites. Qenqo is thought to have been a ceremonial space, Pucapucara a military outpost, and Tambomachay a water temple. Each offers a different perspective on Inca civilization. Expect brief visits (around 20 minutes each), but enough to appreciate their unique features.

Animal Encounters at Huayllacocha

A charming highlight is the stop at Huayllacocha, where you can interact with alpacas and llamas up close. Several reviews mention the joy of petting these animals, which makes for fun photos and a lighthearted break from the ruins.

Return and Reflection

The tour wraps up with a leisurely drive back to Cusco, ending near the main square. The second shift concludes at 6 pm, giving flexibility for your evening plans.

What This Tour Means for You as a Traveler

Value for money is clear — for just $20, you get a guided experience covering the city’s most photogenic spots, with transportation and bilingual guides. While it doesn’t include entrance fees, the guidance and convenience make it a worthwhile option, especially for those wanting a snapshot of Cusco without a strenuous schedule or high costs.

The stops at viewpoints like Cristo Blanco and the eucalyptus forest are especially appreciated for their stunning vistas, perfect for photography. Many reviews praise the views of Cusco and the surrounding mountains — an essential part of the experience for lovers of scenic photography. The brief visits to Inca ruins mean you get enough context and atmosphere without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Transport and group size are optimized for comfort and interaction — small enough to feel personalized, with the guide available to answer questions and share insights. The flexible timing helps travelers fit the tour into different parts of the day, whether you’re an early riser or prefer a mid-morning start.

The Authentic Experience

While this is a sightseeing tour, it’s designed to give you more than just a checklist. The stops at Cristo Blanco and the Eucalyptus Forest foster a sense of place and offer memorable photo opportunities, while the animal encounters add a lighthearted, personal note.

Possible Drawbacks

Some travelers might find the additional entrance fees for attractions like Sacsayhuamán or Qoricancha a bit of a surprise and should budget accordingly. Since the main highlights are outside or viewed from viewpoints, if you’re looking for in-depth archaeological exploration, this tour might feel brief.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is perfect if you want an affordable, relaxed introduction to Cusco’s highlights. It’s especially good for casual travelers who enjoy photography, scenic views, and gentle walks. Families, seniors, or those with limited mobility will find this tour accessible and comfortable. It’s not ideal if you are seeking a deep archaeological or culture, but for those looking for a beautiful, informative snapshot of Cusco’s landscape and history, it’s a solid choice.

The Sum Up

For just $20, this tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to see some of Cusco’s most iconic sites without the hassle of planning individual visits or navigating public transport. The views from Cristo Blanco and the eucalyptus forest alone make it worth considering, especially if stunning scenery and photography are your focus. The inclusion of animal encounters at Huayllacocha adds a fun, personal touch that appeals to travelers of all ages.

While it doesn’t include all entrance fees, the guided experience, transportation, and flexibility make it a good value, particularly for first-time visitors or those wanting a light, scenic overview. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic introduction to Cusco with memorable photo opportunities, this tour hits the right notes.

In short, it’s best suited for travelers who want a friendly, accessible glimpse of Cusco’s highlights — with plenty of chances to snap a great shot, breathe in the mountain air, and enjoy a bit of Inca magic.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all physical levels?
Yes. The tour is designed to be accessible, with no high physical exertion required. It involves short walks and scenic stops.

What time does the tour start?
Tours are available at 8:40 am or 12:40 pm, depending on your preference. Check availability when booking.

Are entrance fees included in the price?
No. Entrance fees for sites like Qoricancha (S/15) and Sacsayhuamán (S/70) are not included and should be budgeted for separately.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes. Pickup from your hotel within Cusco’s historic center is included, making it very convenient.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 5 hours, from pickup to drop-off, including visits and transportation.

Is there a guide on the tour?
Yes. Guides speak both English and Spanish, and they help interpret the sites and answer questions.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellation is free if done 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a water bottle, and your camera or phone for photography. Consider extra cash for entrance fees and snacks.

This tour offers a well-rounded, scenic, and cultural taste of Cusco that fits comfortably into most travel plans — especially if you value stunning views, animal encounters, and leisurely exploration.