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Free Walking Tour Cusco
Your Essential Cusco Introduction - Tip-Based Walking Tour!
Do you want to truly experience Cusco and discover its hidden secrets? Join us as we explore the capital of the Inca Empire and witness the fascinating clash and fusion of Andean and European civilisations. During our 2 hour and 15 minute walk, we'll delve into the fascinating stories, traditions and legends that are etched into Cusco's streets, avenues, monuments, churches, convents and palaces.
We meet at the Parque de la Madre for your convenience, with four departures daily: two in the morning and two in the afternoon (please check language availability for each group). If you're looking for an accessible and informative introduction to the city, consider a free walking tour Cusco! It's a great way to start your adventure and get a local's perspective. We look forward to showing you around!
Tour Details & Logistics
- Duration: Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes of insightful exploration.
- Meeting Point: We meet at Parque de la Madre (Mother's Park).
- How to find us: Look for our guides!
- English Group: Find the BLUE umbrella.
- Spanish Group: Find the RED umbrella.
- How to find us: Look for our guides!
- Daily Departures: We offer tours multiple times daily. Please check the booking calendar/schedule for exact times and language availability for each slot.
- How it Works (Tip-Based):
- This is a tip-based tour – you decide the value based on your experience!
- Contributions are greatly appreciated to support our excellent local guides.
- Recommended Contribution: USD 10 to USD 50 per person (or equivalent).
- Currencies Accepted: USD, EUR, GBP, CHF, PEN (Peruvian Soles).
Meeting Point: Parque de la Madre (Mother's Park)
What You'll Discover On Your Cusco Walk
- Plaza de Armas: Uncover the history of Cusco's bustling main square, the heart of both Inca and Colonial life.
- Ancient Inca Walls: Marvel at the incredible precision of Inca stonework, including examples near the famous Twelve-Angled Stone.
- Colonial Architecture: Learn about the significance of key churches and colonial mansions built upon Inca foundations (exterior views).
- Hidden Streets & Legends: Venture slightly off the beaten path to hear unique stories and urban legends tied to specific locations.
- City Orientation: Gain a fantastic understanding of the city layout to help you explore further on your own.
Why Choose Yana Tours for Your Free Walking Tour Cusco?
Authentic & Unbiased: Our passion is sharing Cusco's rich history and culture. We guarantee NO forced stops at restaurants, bars, or souvenir shops – your time is focused purely on discovery.
Expert Local Guides: Learn from knowledgeable Cusqueños who bring history, traditions, and local secrets to life with enthusiasm.
Comprehensive Introduction: We cover the stories behind over 30 significant streets, monuments, and buildings in Cusco's historic center.
Engaging & Energetic: Expect more than just facts! Enjoy a blend of history, cultural insights, and entertaining legends – the perfect start to your Cusco adventure!
Hear From Our Happy Walkers
Don't just take our word for it! See what fellow travelers are saying about the Yana Tours Free Walking Tour Cusco:
Yana Tours FREE WALKING TOURS / + 485 reviews on Tripadvisor see more …
Yana Tours FREE WALKING TOURS / + 311 reviews on Google Maps see more …
Important Booking Information
- Reservations: Booking in advance is highly recommended to guarantee your spot.
- Booking Deadline: Please book at least 1.5 hours before your desired tour start time.
- English Tour Availability Note: (Ensure this info is always accurate and visible) The English tour is currently NOT AVAILABLE at the following times:
- Mondays @ 5:30 PM
- Thursdays @ 5:30 PM
- Saturdays (All Day)
Book Your Free Walking Tour Cusco Now!
Frequently asked questions about the free walking tour in Cusco
- Should I book to participate in the Yana Walking Tour or can I show up directly at the tour starting point?
- We always recommend that you make your reservation at least 1 hour and 30 minutes before the start of the tour. This ensures that the tour will take place and reserves your space in the group. You can also show up for the tour without a prior reservation, but in this case, you run the risk that the tour will not take place if there were no reservations for the time you are attending.
- What should I do if I am running late?
- If you can't arrive at the scheduled time for your reservation, please contact us at (+51) 975726816 (WhatsApp/Telegram). If the delay does not exceed 10 minutes, the guide can wait for latecomers. If you cannot arrive before the 10-minute grace period, please be respectful of other attendees and notify us so that we don't wait in vain. You can always reschedule your reservation for the next slot or another date.
- Can I join the Yana Free Walking Tour once it has started?
- It is possible, but we do not recommend it. If the delay is not more than 10 minutes, it is always possible to wait for latecomers. Please contact us at (+51) 975726816 (WhatsApp/Telegram).
- I'm traveling with children, will they enjoy this free walking tour?
- Usually, children also enjoy our free tours, but occasionally, we have seen some children get bored during our walks because our free tours are designed for adults. However, we always do our best to please all our attendees, regardless of their age, so you can bring your little ones along.
- Usually, children also enjoy our free tours, but occasionally, we have seen some children get bored during our walks because our free tours are designed for adults. However, we always do our best to please all our attendees, regardless of their age, so you can bring your little ones along.
- What is the suggested appropriate tip amount?
- Our free walking tour is pay-what-you-wish, which means it is completely free to reserve, but the guides and team expect to be rewarded at the end of the tour with the amount that you decide the tour is worth. Some people leave 30 soles, others leave 100 soles, and others leave their donation in dollars or even euros — it's up to you.*Suggested minimum tip 30 soles per person.
- Are our free walking tours in Cusco (11 am and 5:30 pm) different?
- No, all the free walking tours in Cusco have a similar itinerary. The only thing that may vary is the language, whether it's in Spanish or English. However, we do offer private walking tours with customized itineraries and more specialized information and tours to the desires of our private groups. These private walking tours are included in our tourist packages or can be requested by tourists.
- Can we leave before the free walking tour ends because we have other activities?
- You can always leave your free walking tour before it ends, but don't forget to leave a gratuity for the guide, especially if the service was good.
- What is the minimum number of attendees to conduct a free walking tour?
- One person.
- What is the maximum number of tourists allowed per group?
- 24 tourists in English or Spanish. For more information, please refer to our policies. If there are tourists who show up for our free walking tour at the last minute without a prior reservation and the group is already too large, we will still proceed with the tour. However, we will not split the group due to the lack of an advanced reservation to hire an additional guide. Usually, our groups consist of 10 tourists in the high season and 5 people in the low season.
- 24 tourists in English or Spanish. For more information, please refer to our policies. If there are tourists who show up for our free walking tour at the last minute without a prior reservation and the group is already too large, we will still proceed with the tour. However, we will not split the group due to the lack of an advanced reservation to hire an additional guide. Usually, our groups consist of 10 tourists in the high season and 5 people in the low season.
- We are a group of 11 or more, can we book online?
- Groups or families of 11 or more should contact us before making a reservation, and we will accept or reject your participation in our free tours depending on availability. We know from experience that large groups do not pay attention
- Are we a group of 11 or more, can we have a private free tour?
- No, all our free walking tours are always in a group with other attendees. If you want a tour just for you and your friends, please contact us for a private tour.
- Are free walking tours canceled due to protests, festivities, or bad weather in Cusco?
- If it's protesting, for tourists' safety, we may cancel your free walking tour, even without prior notice because, in some cases, strikes are not announced. If it's festivities (December 25th, January 1st), we may also cancel the free tour. If there is bad weather, we will operate the free tour by changing the itinerary, except in the case of heavy rain, in which case we will cancel your free walking tour. In case of cancellation, we will always communicate the fact to the people who made their reservation, so it's important to leave a phone number and contact email.
- Do we use crutches, can we participate in your free walking tour?
- Of course, as long as you are able to walk and stand while your guide explains a historical point of interest.
- Do we use wheelchairs, can we participate in Yana free walking tour in Cusco?
- Unfortunately, the answer is no because many streets in Cusco are not adapted for people who use wheelchairs. In this case, we advise you to hire a private tour that follows a route specifically indicated for people in wheelchairs
Join our free walking tour and explore the magic of Cusco!
We conduct three different tours daily in English and three different tours in Spanish, all starting at the Parque de La Madre. Our goal is to provide high-quality, informative tours for travelers.
Our service is free in the sense that you decide the price according to your satisfaction
Secure your spot on the tour by booking in advance. This tour starts a block and a half away from Cusco's Main Square. It's very easy to spot us! Look for our blue umbrella (English) or red umbrella (Spanish). We recommend to arrive at the meeting point at least 5 minutes early so we can organize ourselves.
During the 2 hour sand 15 minutes activity, we recommend to bring:
- A water bottle
- Camera
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Lightweight clothing and comfortable shoes
- Windbreaker and preferably waterproof jacket
Cancellation policy:
If for any reason you cannot attend the tour, please contact us at (+51) 975726816 (Whatsapp/Telegram) or by email at contact.us@yana.com.pe
What will we visit on this tour?
Itinerary
Meeting point:
Parque de La Madre
"Parque de La Madre is a public space located in the historic heart of the city of Cusco, Peru. Before being called that, it was known as Plazoleta Silvac, in honor of the Casa Silva, which is located nearby and dates back to the 16th century."
Santa Teresa Temple and Convent
"The Monastery of the Discalced Carmelites of Saint Joseph and Saint Teresa, locally known as the Convent of Santa Teresa, is a religious building located in the city of Cusco, Peru. Owned by the Order of Discalced Carmelites, it currently houses a cloistered convent and a church. It is one of the oldest churches in the city, dating back to the late 17th century. It is located two blocks from the Main Square at the intersection of Siete Cuartones and Saphy streets."
Amargura Slope
"Calle Amargura (also known as Cuesta de la Amargura) is a street located in the monumental zone of the city of Cusco, Peru. It is notable for the steep staircase of 114 stone steps that rises at its eastern end and connects the lower part of the city with the road to the ruins of Sacsayhuaman."
San Cristobal Church Lookout
The Church of San Cristóbal is a Catholic church located in the city of Cusco, Peru. It is located at the western end of the Colcampata plaza on the Sacsayhuamán hill, being an obligatory stop on the way between the Plaza de Armas and the ruins of Sacsayhuamán.
Borreguitos Street
"Experience the beauty of Borreguitos Street, a lovingly restored lane in Cusco's San Blas district. A collaborative effort between locals, Diego Quispe Tito University, and the Cusco Chamber of Commerce has transformed this street into a stunning example of urban revitalization."
Choquechaka Street
"Choquechaka Street, a historic artery in Cusco, winds its way through the city's heart, tracing the path of the Tullumayo River. This ancient Inca road connected the upper part of the city, including the Inca Trail to Collasuyo, with the lower part, leading to the Inca Trail to Antisuyo."
Culebras street
"Culebras Street, a serene pedestrian lane in Cusco's historic center, winds its way between the majestic Church of San Antonio Abad and the former Monastery of the Nazarenas, now transformed into the luxurious Palacio Nazarenas and Monasterio hotels."
Las Nazarenas Square
"Plazoleta de las Nazarenas, a historic square in Cusco, has stood the test of time, dating back to the Inca Empire. Today, this picturesque square is home to two of the city's most luxurious hotels, the Belmond Hotel Palacio Nazarenas and the Belmond Hotel Monasterio."
Admiral's Palace
"Casa del Almirante, a magnificent colonial mansion in Cusco, stands on the site of the former Inca palace of Huáscar. This historic building, now home to the Inka Museum, has witnessed centuries of Peruvian history, having been home to various significant figures, including the last Viceroy of Peru and the Protector of the Peru-Bolivian Confederation."
Cusco Main Square
"Plaza de Armas, the historic heart of Cusco, is a vibrant public square that has witnessed centuries of history. Originally an Inca ceremonial center, it was later transformed by Spanish colonizers into a grand plaza. Today, it remains a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike."
Jesuit Church of the Company
"The Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús, a breathtaking example of Spanish Baroque architecture, stands proudly in Cusco's historic Plaza de Armas. Built on the foundations of an ancient Inca palace, this iconic church has captivated visitors with its intricate details and religious significance."
Loreto street
"Loreto Street, or Intik'ijllu, is a historic lane in Cusco that dates back to the Inca Empire. This ancient street, lined with impressive Inca walls, once divided the palaces of the Inca Huayna Capac and the Acllawasi. Today, it serves as a reminder of the advanced urban planning of the Inca civilization."
Pukamarka Palace
"Pukamarka, or 'Red Place,' was a magnificent Inca palace built by Túpac Inca Yupanqui, located southeast of Waqaypata. Constructed to assert his authority, the palace served as a powerful symbol of his reign."
Cusicancha Palace
"Kusicancha, the 'Happy Enclosure,' was once the prestigious home of Inca Pachacutec and his royal family. This archaeological site offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich history of Cusco, showcasing the remnants of Inca and pre-Inca civilizations. Visitors can explore the well-preserved Inca structures, including the palace's courtyards, water channels, and funerary sectors."
This activity includes:
-
Guided walk through more than 30 streets and monuments in the Historical center of Cusco
This activity no includes:
- Entrance tickets
- Bus transportation
- Food
- Drinks
We always recommend that you make your reservation at least 1 hour and 30 minutes before the start of the tour. This ensures that the tour will take place and reserves your space in the group. You can also show up for the tour without a prior reservation, but in this case, you run the risk that the tour will not take place if there were no reservations for the time you are attending.
If you can't arrive at the scheduled time for your reservation, please contact us at (+51) 975726816 (WhatsApp/Telegram). If the delay does not exceed 10 minutes, the guide can wait for latecomers. If you cannot arrive before the 10-minute grace period, please be respectful of other attendees and notify us so that we don't wait in vain. You can always reschedule your reservation for the next slot or another date.
It is possible, but we do not recommend it. If the delay is not more than 10 minutes, it is always possible to wait for latecomers. Please contact us at (+51) 975726816 (WhatsApp/Telegram).
Usually, children also enjoy our free tours, but occasionally, we have seen some children get bored during our walks because our free tours are designed for adults. However, we always do our best to please all our attendees, regardless of their age, so you can bring your little ones along.
Our free walking tour is pay-what-you-wish, which means it is completely free to reserve, but the guides and team expect to be rewarded at the end of the tour with the amount that you decide the tour is worth. Some people leave 20 soles, others leave 100 soles, and others leave their donation in dollars or even euros — it's up to you.*Suggested minimum tip 20 soles per person.
No, all the free walking tours in Cusco have a similar itinerary. The only thing that may vary is the language, whether it's in Spanish or English. However, we do offer private walking tours with customized itineraries and more specialized information and tours to the desires of our private groups. These private walking tours are included in our tourist packages or can be requested by tourists.
You can always leave your free walking tour before it ends, but don't forget to leave a gratuity for the guide, especially if the service was good.
24 tourists in English or Spanish. For more information, please refer to our policies. If there are tourists who show up for our free walking tour at the last minute without a prior reservation and the group is already too large, we will still proceed with the tour. However, we will not split the group due to the lack of an advanced reservation to hire an additional guide. Usually, our groups consist of 10 tourists in the high season and 5 people in the low season.
Groups or families of 11 or more should contact us before making a reservation, and we will accept or reject your participation in our free tours depending on availability. We know from experience that large groups do not pay attention
No, all our free walking tours are always in a group with other attendees. If you want a tour just for you and your friends, please contact us for a private tour.
If it's protesting, for tourists' safety, we may cancel your free walking tour, even without prior notice because, in some cases, strikes are not announced. If it's festivities (December 25th, January 1st), we may also cancel the free tour. If there is bad weather, we will operate the free tour by changing the itinerary, except in the case of heavy rain, in which case we will cancel your free walking tour. In case of cancellation, we will always communicate the fact to the people who made their reservation, so it's important to leave a phone number and contact email.
Of course, as long as you are able to walk and stand while your guide explains a historical point of interest.
Unfortunately, the answer is no because many streets in Cusco are not adapted for people who use wheelchairs. In this case, we advise you to hire a private tour that follows a route specifically indicated for people in wheelchairs
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