Experience the Apurimac Canyons and Inca Sites on a Full-Day Tour from Cusco

Imagine a day spent exploring deep canyons and ancient ruins, with the chance to see the majestic flight of the Andean Condor. For $159, you get a 12-hour journey that takes you from the historic streets of Cusco into some of the most spectacular scenery in Peru. Guided by knowledgeable locals, you’ll visit archaeological sites, hike along dramatic cliffs, and witness wildlife in the wild — all while soaking in the grandeur of the Andes.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines rich history with breathtaking landscapes. The stops at Quillarumiyoc and Tarawasi reveal the Incas’ astronomical savvy, while the hike along the Apurimac Canyon offers stunning views and a real sense of nature’s scale. Plus, the chance to see the Andean Condor in flight is truly a highlight that makes this experience memorable.

One possible consideration is the length of the day — 12 hours is a good chunk of time, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a full schedule and some physical activity. Also, the terrain can be uneven, so comfortable footwear is a must. This tour suits those eager to combine cultural discovery and natural beauty in a single, well-organized outing, especially if you’re keen on experiencing the iconic wildlife and dramatic vistas of the Andes.

Key Points

Stunning Landscapes: Experience views of one of the deepest canyons in the world, with incredible photo opportunities.
Historic Sites: Visit two important Inca archaeological locations, illustrating their advanced understanding of astronomy and spirituality.
Wildlife Watching: Catch a glimpse of the soaring Andean Condor, a symbol of strength and freedom in the Andes.
Active Hike: Enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour trail along the canyon’s edge, lined with native flora and wildlife.
Local Culture: Lunch in Limatambo offers a taste of regional flavors in a peaceful setting.
All-Inclusive Value: Transportation, guides, entrance fees, and a box lunch are included, simplifying your day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

This tour begins early in Cusco with hotel pickup, setting the stage for a full day exploring the rugged beauty and ancient monuments of the region. You’ll first stop at Quillarumiyoc, an Inca site believed to have served both as a ceremonial center and an astronomical observatory. Here, the stones and layout reflect the Incas’ profound understanding of the cosmos, making it an engaging introduction to their ingenuity.

Next, the journey takes you to Tarawasi, another significant Inca site, which reveals more about their sophisticated architectural skills and spiritual practices. These sites are not just ruins but portals into a culture that saw the universe as interconnected with their daily lives. For history buffs, these stops are a chance to see how the Incas integrated astronomy with their religious practices.

From there, your route leads to Limatambo, a tranquil village where a well-earned lunch awaits. You’ll appreciate the local flavors — think fresh ingredients and traditional preparation — providing a satisfying pause before the adventure in the mountains. The scenery here is lush, with rolling hills and farmland, giving a taste of rural Peru.

After resting, the journey ascends to Chonta, a picturesque Andean community perched at nearly 12,000 feet. It’s here that the real magic begins with a scenic hike along the canyon’s rim. The trail is lined with native plants, and the views are jaw-dropping. If you’re lucky, the sky will be clear enough to see soaring condors, their wingspan impressive as they glide effortlessly on thermal currents. The locals consider these birds messengers of the gods, making their sighting all the more special.

From the Huaco Viewpoint, the expansive vista of the Apurimac Canyon is unforgettable. The canyon, one of the deepest in the world, stretches out in all directions, a testament to the raw power of natural forces. Many reviewers describe this as a highlight, with one noting, “We loved the way the canyon opened up, the views were incredible.” The experience of witnessing such immense natural beauty leaves a lasting impression.

The return trip to Cusco wraps up the day, typically arriving in the evening. It’s a long but rewarding journey, giving you a well-rounded glimpse of the Andes’ rugged landscape, ancient culture, and stunning wildlife.

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The Itinerary — A Closer Look

Stop 1: Cusco City Pickup
Your day begins with a convenient pickup from either the Iglesia del Triunfo or Centro Histórico. This ensures a smooth start and allows you to relax as the adventure begins.

Stop 2: Guided Tour of Inca Sites
Your guide will provide insights into the purpose and symbolism of Quillarumiyoc and Tarawasi. Expect about 40 minutes at each site, enough to explore and learn without feeling rushed. These ruins are compact but packed with significance, especially if you’re interested in Inca astronomy and spiritual practices.

Stop 3: Scenic Hike in the Andes
After a short drive, the trek begins at Chonta, where you’ll hike for about 1.5 hours along the canyon’s edge. The trail is lined with native flora, and the elevation offers fresh mountain air. It’s suitable for most able-bodied travelers, but should be approached with comfortable shoes and a sense of adventure.

Stop 4: Wildlife Viewing at Huaco
From the viewpoint, you’ll look out for eagles, hawks, and maybe even the elusive white-tailed deer. The landscape is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike. This stop lasts approximately an hour, giving enough time for photos and quiet observation.

Stop 5: Return to Cusco
After a day filled with sights, sounds, and scenery, your private transport will whisk you back to the city, arriving in the evening.

The Practicalities and Value

This full-day tour is priced at $159 per person, which includes hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation, a professional guide, entrance fees, and a box lunch. Given the inclusion of transportation and a guide, it offers good value, especially considering the remote locations visited.

It’s important to note that breakfast and other meals are not included, so you might want to have a light breakfast before starting or bring snacks. The tour operates with a private group, meaning you’ll have a more personalized experience than a large bus tour.

Timing-wise, be prepared for a 12-hour day with check-in times varying based on your hotel location. The early start means you’ll beat some crowds at the sites, and the long day rewards you with unforgettable scenery and cultural insights.

The tour isn’t suitable for those with back problems or limited mobility because of the uneven terrain and hiking involved. Also, since the activity involves heights and exposure to the elements, bring essentials like sunglasses, sunscreen, a sun hat, and a camera.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

If you’re someone who appreciates both history and nature, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s ideal for travelers looking to see Inca archaeological sites without the hassle of organizing transportation and guides themselves. The panoramic views and the chance to see condors soaring are major draws.

It’s especially fitting if you want a full day of exploration that combines cultural insights with outdoor activity. The hike along the canyon rim provides a sense of adventure, while the wildlife sightings add a touch of wildlife fascination.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed, less physically demanding experience, or if you’re traveling with very young children or mobility issues, this might not be the best fit.

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The Sum Up: A Day of Wonder in the Andes

This tour offers a balanced blend of cultural discovery, natural beauty, and wildlife viewing, making it a compelling choice for those visiting Cusco. The chance to explore two important Inca sites, enjoy a scenic hike along one of the deepest canyons in the world, and witness condors in flight makes for a truly memorable day.

We found that the high points — impressive views, ancient ruins, and the soaring condors — are worth the early start and long hours. It’s a well-organized trip that takes care of logistics, so you can focus on soaking in the scenery and history.

If you’re after an active day outdoors with a cultural twist, this tour fits the bill nicely. It’s a great way to experience the stunning Apurimac Canyon and its surroundings without spending days in transit. Just bring your camera, a sense of adventure, and a good pair of walking shoes.

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FAQ

How early does the tour start?
Check availability for specific start times, but expect an early morning pickup to make the most of the day.

Is transportation included?
Yes, private transportation is provided for the entire day, making logistics easy and comfortable.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, sun hat, camera, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes suitable for hiking and variable weather.

Are meals included?
A box lunch is provided, but breakfast and other meals are not included, so plan accordingly.

What is the activity level?
It involves some hiking along uneven terrain, so it’s best suited for travelers in good physical condition, comfortable with heights and outdoor activity.

Can I see condors easily?
While wildlife sightings depend on luck, the viewpoint at Huaco is a prime spot for observing the majestic condors in flight.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best for older children and teenagers who can handle a full day of activity and some walking.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility in your planning.

This full-day tour from Cusco offers a genuine and visually stunning experience, blending history, outdoor adventure, and wildlife. Perfect for those eager to see the grandeur of the Andes and step into the world of the Incas — with the added thrill of spotting soaring condors in their natural habitat.