Open Bus Cusco City Tour

If you’re looking for an affordable way to get an overview of Cusco’s winding streets, historic plazas, and sweeping views, the Open Bus Cusco City Tour is worth considering. For just around $14, you get a roughly three-hour ride that covers the city’s highlights and some of its outlying archaeological sites. With a double-decker bus, you’ll enjoy panoramic views from the top deck, making it easy to take in the city’s stunning architecture and mountain backdrop. Your knowledgeable guide—often praised for their friendliness and local insights—will keep you engaged with stories and facts you might miss on your own.

What we love about this experience is how accessible it is. You don’t need to worry about navigation or figuring out complex public transportation—just hop on and enjoy the ride. Plus, the stops at key landmarks like Sacsayhuaman and Qenqo give you the chance to step off the bus and appreciate these historic sites up close. It’s an excellent option for travelers who want an introduction to Cusco’s culture and history without breaking the bank or committing to a lengthy tour.

A potential downside? The schedule can be a little unpredictable. Several reviews mention that the tour sometimes starts late or runs over time, which might interfere with your plans, especially if you have other activities booked. Also, the tour mainly focuses on outdoor sights, so if your main goal is archaeological exploration, you might want to supplement this with a more in-depth site visit.

All in all, this tour suits first-time visitors, those with limited time in Cusco, or travelers who prefer a relaxed, guided overview from the comfort of a bus. It’s especially good for acclimatizing to high altitude while ticking off the city’s most famous sights.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just over $14 per person, this tour offers good value for a comprehensive city overview.
• Panoramic Views: The top deck provides great vantage points for photos and taking in Cusco’s scenery.
• Expert Guidance: Guides are knowledgeable and often share interesting stories beyond standard facts.
• Convenient Stops: You get to step off at key landmarks and archaeological sites outside the city center.
• Flexible and Easy: Mobile tickets and a short, 3-hour duration make it accessible for most schedules.
• Potential Schedule Variability: Watch out for delays or overlong stops, which some travelers have experienced.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour is designed to be straightforward and budget-friendly. For about $14, your ticket includes transportation on a double-decker bus, along with a bi-lingual guide—a big plus if you want to understand the stories behind Cusco’s sights. Meals, drinks, souvenirs, and personal expenses are not part of the package, so plan accordingly. Optional gratuities are also not included but are appreciated if you feel the guide provided extra value.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour kicks off at Plaza de Armas, the bustling heart of Cusco. Here, your guide offers a quick introduction to local culture and history, setting the scene for the next three hours. This opening stop is perfect for photos and soaking in the lively atmosphere of the main square.

Next, you’ll board the open-top bus at this same point. From there, the ride takes you along Cusco’s narrow streets and past some of its most iconic sights. The passing through of local neighborhoods offers a glimpse into daily life, with your guide sharing stories about how Cusco’s traditions have persisted through centuries.

One of the first major stops is a brief stop at Sacsayhuaman, where you’ll stay onboard but enjoy a panoramic view of this formidable Inca fortress. Your guide enriches this experience with insights into its strategic importance and construction methods, giving you context that you might miss on your own.

The Statue of Christ is another highlight, offering stunning views of Cusco from a vantage point high above the city. Here, you’ll have about 10 minutes to walk around, snap photos, and enjoy the scenery. The tour also includes a stop at Paccha, a significant local center, and along the Great Mural of Cusco, which depicts the city’s history from Inca times to the Spanish conquest.

An especially noteworthy site is the Qenqo area, where your guide explains its cultural significance. This site was sacred to the Incas, and your guide will tell stories about how the Spanish conquistadors replaced Inca temples with churches, maintaining some of the original base structures.

The final stop is Calle Saphy, a few blocks from the main square, where the tour ends. Here, you can take some last photos and reflect on the experience.

Authentic Experiences and Highlights

Several reviews mention the unique cultural moments this tour offers. For example, participating in a shamanic ritual during the tour was described as “very moving and spiritual,” adding an authentic touch to the overall experience. Others appreciated the insights from guides like Victor, especially when they provided English translation for non-Spanish speakers, which enhanced understanding.

The Pros: Why We Like It

The value for money is clear. For just over $14, you get a rundown of Cusco’s main sights, with the top deck views adding an extra layer of enjoyment. The guides’ local knowledge shines through, with many reviewers praising their storytelling and friendliness. The stops at archaeological sites outside the city are particularly valuable for travelers wanting a taste of Inca history without the hassle of separate tours.

The flexibility of the tour—being able to stay on the bus or step out at key points—is another advantage. If you’re tired or acclimating to the altitude, you can choose to remain on board and still get a good overview. The short duration fits well into a busy sightseeing schedule, especially if you’re arriving in Cusco or heading out later in the day.

The Cons: Watch Out

Some travelers have found the schedule to be inconsistent, with reports of delays or overlong stops. The tour sometimes starts late or runs over the estimated three hours, which can be frustrating if you’re trying to stick to a tightly planned itinerary. Plus, a few reviews mention pushy sales tactics at certain stops, which could detract from the authentic experience.

Another point to consider is that the tour doesn’t include inside visits to archaeological sites. If you’re eager to explore Inca ruins in detail, this tour mainly provides viewpoints and exterior sights. It’s a good primer but not a substitute for dedicated archaeological tours.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a quick, easy overview of Cusco’s sights. It’s also suitable for those who prefer outdoor sightseeing and enjoy bus rides with scenic views over walking. Travelers looking to acclimate to altitude or those with limited time will find this tour especially helpful. If you’re traveling with family or a group that appreciates informal, guided commentary, this tour offers a relaxed, engaging approach.

Final Thoughts

The Open Bus Cusco City Tour presents a cost-effective, convenient way to see much of what Cusco has to offer in a short time. The combination of panoramic views, friendly guides, and strategic stops makes it well-suited for travelers who want a broad introduction without fuss. While schedule variability and the lack of inside archaeological visits are worth noting, many reviews highlight the value and authentic stories that guides share, making it more than just a sightseeing ride.

If you’re seeking a low-effort, insightful overview of Cusco, especially if it’s your first visit, this tour fits the bill. It’s perfect for those wanting to get a sense of the city’s layout, history, and scenery before diving deeper into specific sites on subsequent days.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and it’s a relaxed way to see the city, making it suitable for families, seniors, or those with limited mobility.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately three hours, making it easy to fit into a day of sightseeing or acclimatization.

Does the tour include inside visits to archaeological sites?
No, the tour mainly offers exterior views and viewpoints. Some sites like Sacsayhuaman can be seen from the bus or via brief stops.

What is the price of the tour?
It costs around $14.09 per person, offering good value considering the sights covered and guided commentary.

Are meals or drinks included?
No, meals and beverages are not included, so plan to eat before or after the tour.

What should I wear?
Bring layers, especially if you plan to stay on the upper deck, as it can be windy and cool at high vantage points.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What language is the guide speaking?
Most guides are bilingual, providing commentary in both Spanish and English, with some reviewers noting good translation assistance.

Is the tour flexible with timing?
It can sometimes start late or run over schedule, so plan accordingly if you have other commitments.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The tour starts at Sta. Catalina Angosta 120, near Cusco’s main square, about two blocks away.

To sum it up, this open-top bus tour offers a cost-effective, friendly, and scenic way to familiarize yourself with Cusco’s layout, major sights, and culture. It’s especially suited for first-timers or those who want a relaxed overview without the hassle of walking or navigating public transport. Just be aware of possible delays and the limited inside access to archaeological sites. For a quick and enjoyable introduction to Cusco, this tour does the job nicely.