Cusco, often called the historic capital of Peru, is a city where ancient civilizations and colonial influences blend seamlessly. For history lovers, Cusco is nothing short of paradise. Every cobbled street, Inca wall, and ornate cathedral tells a story of resilience, conquest, and culture. While the city is most famous as the gateway to Machu Picchu, there’s so much more to explore within its rich historical tapestry.

If you’re planning your trip, the best way to immerse yourself is through well-curated Cusco tour packages that highlight both the iconic landmarks and lesser-known gems. To help you choose, we’ve put together a list of 9 must-do tours in Cusco that will leave any history enthusiast fascinated.

1. Walking Tour of Cusco’s Historic Center

Start with the heart of the city—the Plaza de Armas. A guided walking tour will introduce you to the stunning Cusco Cathedral, built on the foundations of an Inca palace, and the Church of the Society of Jesus with its intricate baroque façade. As you stroll through narrow streets like Hatun Rumiyoc, you’ll spot the famous 12-angled stone, a masterpiece of Inca masonry.

Walking tours are perfect for getting oriented with Cusco’s past, from Inca foundations to Spanish colonial architecture.

2. Sacsayhuamán Fortress Tour

Just a short drive from the city center, Sacsayhuamán is one of the most impressive Inca ruins in Peru. This massive fortress overlooks Cusco and is renowned for its enormous stone walls—some weighing over 100 tons—perfectly fitted together without mortar.

History buffs will enjoy learning how this site served both military and ceremonial purposes. Today, it’s also the stage for the Inti Raymi Festival, celebrating the Inca Sun God.

3. Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun)

The Qorikancha, once the most important temple in the Inca Empire, was dedicated to Inti, the Sun God. Covered in sheets of gold during Inca times, it was later converted into the Santo Domingo Convent by the Spanish. This site beautifully showcases the fusion of Inca and colonial architecture, giving visitors a unique window into Cusco’s layered past.

4. Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour

A day trip to the Sacred Valley is essential for history lovers. This fertile valley was a key area for the Inca civilization, filled with terraced mountainsides, traditional villages, and archaeological wonders. Highlights include:

• Pisac Ruins and Market – Stunning terraces and a vibrant artisan market.
• Ollantaytambo Fortress – An incredible site of Inca resistance against the Spanish.
• Chinchero – A village known for traditional weaving and colonial churches built atop Inca foundations.

Most Cusco tour packages include Sacred Valley excursions, as they offer a rich combination of culture and history.

5. Moray and Maras Salt Mines

For something unique, consider a tour to Moray and Maras.

• Moray features circular terraces believed to have been an Inca agricultural laboratory. Historians theorize it was used to test crops at different altitudes.
• Maras Salt Mines, still in use today, showcase an ancient method of salt extraction that dates back to pre-Inca times.

These sites offer insight into the ingenuity and daily life of the Inca civilization.

6. Tipón Archaeological Park

Often overlooked, Tipón is a hidden gem for history lovers. This archaeological park is an engineering marvel, showcasing advanced Inca water channels and terraced fields that are still functional today.

A visit here provides a deeper appreciation for the Inca’s agricultural innovations and their mastery of hydraulic engineering.

7. The Inca Trail Day Tour

While the full Inca Trail trek takes several days, you can opt for a one-day hike that gives a taste of this world-famous route. You’ll pass ancient ruins along the way and enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), just as the Incas once did.

This is a perfect option for travelers short on time but eager to connect with the historical spirit of the trail.

8. Cusco Museum Circuit

Cusco is home to several excellent museums that history lovers should not miss:

• Inka Museum (Museo Inka) – Rich collection of artifacts, ceramics, and mummies.
• Pre-Columbian Art Museum (MAP) – Stunning pieces from different ancient cultures.
• Museum of Religious Art – Colonial paintings and sacred relics.
• Casa Concha Museum – Houses artifacts returned from Machu Picchu by Yale University.

A museum tour adds depth to your understanding of Cusco’s multi-layered past.

9. Machu Picchu Tour

Of course, no list would be complete without the crown jewel—Machu Picchu. While technically outside Cusco city, it remains the pinnacle of any history-focused trip. Exploring the citadel with a knowledgeable guide brings the mysterious stone structures, temples, and terraces to life.

Most Cusco tour packages conveniently include Machu Picchu, ensuring seamless travel by train and bus. For history enthusiasts, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the ultimate experience.

Tips for Planning Historical Tours in Cusco

• Book in advance: Popular sites like Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail have limited tickets.
• Hire local guides: Their insights bring stories and legends to life.
• Combine sites: Opt for packages that cover multiple ruins and museums for a comprehensive experience.
• Travel slowly: Cusco’s altitude can affect visitors; allow time to acclimatize before starting tours.

Why Choose Cusco Tour Packages?

Planning a historical journey through Cusco can feel overwhelming, given the sheer number of archaeological sites and cultural landmarks. This is where curated Cusco tour packages come in handy. They save you time, provide expert guides, and ensure smooth logistics, so you can focus on enjoying the experience.

Whether you want a short city tour, an in-depth Sacred Valley exploration, or a once-in-a-lifetime Machu Picchu adventure, packages are tailored to fit different interests and budgets.

Companies like Goxplore Peru specialize in crafting experiences that go beyond sightseeing, offering travelers a deeper connection to the rich history and traditions of the Andes.

Final Thoughts

For history lovers, Cusco is more than a destination—it’s a journey back in time. From the intricate stonework of Sacsayhuamán to the agricultural terraces of Moray, every site has a story that adds to the city’s incredible legacy. By choosing the right tours, you’ll gain a comprehensive view of both the grandeur of the Inca civilization and the enduring influence of colonial times.

So, whether you opt for a walking tour of Cusco’s historic center, a day in the Sacred Valley, or the unforgettable Machu Picchu, you’re guaranteed a historical adventure like no other.

With thoughtfully designed Cusco tour packages, your trip becomes more than just travel—it becomes an immersive exploration of Peru’s timeless heritage.