Cusco Guide

Cusco Cultural Tours

Experience authentic Andean culture in Cusco, from traditional communities to local traditions, discovering the rich cultural heritage of Peru's highlands

20+ tours
From $55
Half day
Cusco Cultural Tours

Cusco is a living cultural center where ancient Andean traditions blend with Spanish colonial influences, creating a unique cultural identity that makes understanding local culture essential to the Cusco experience! Cultural tours take you into the heart of Andean culture, from visiting traditional communities to experiencing local traditions, from understanding Quechua culture to seeing how ancient customs continue today, and from learning about textile weaving to experiencing traditional ceremonies. Experience the vibrant cultural scene, see how ancient traditions are preserved, understand the role of culture in Andean identity, and discover why Cusco is considered one of Peru's great cultural destinations. Whether you're interested in traditional textiles, Quechua culture, or contemporary Andean expressions, cultural tours offer engaging journeys that showcase the cultural richness that makes Cusco culturally fascinating. From communities to cultural centers, from traditions to modern expressions, cultural tours provide authentic insights into what makes Cusco a cultural destination!

Featured Cultural Tours Tours

Discover our top picks for cultural tours in Cusco

Cusco: Cultural & Historic Walking Tour with Local Drinks
From $10
Free Cancellation

Join an expertly guided journey through Cusco’s fascinating history, magnificent architecture, and enduring traditions with this immersive tour. Explore iconic landmarks, including a traditional chicheria and an authentic luthier’s workshop, where you'll gain exclusive insights into the city’s vibrant cultural heritage. The experience culminates at San Cristobal Plaza, where breathtaking panoramic views of Cusco await, offering a moment of pure wonder. Tailored for adventure seekers and cultural aficionados alike, this tour reveals Cusco’s hidden treasures, often overlooked by ordinary travelers. Discover the city from an insider’s perspective, enriching your visit with unforgettable encounters and profound cultural connections in this historic Andean gem.

5.0(9)
2h 30m
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Cusco Paint your own Torito de Pucara Art and Culture
💸Special Offer
$58From $40.6
Free CancellationNew

If you're passionate about art or looking for a different creative experience, dare to paint your own Pucará bull, guided by a professional artist. A unique activity where you'll explore your artistic side while connecting with one of the most emblematic traditions of Andean culture.

5.0(3)
3h
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Half-Day Cusco City Tour – Explore History, Culture & Inca Ruins
From $12
Free Cancellation

This half-day tour of Cusco offers a unique blend of history, culture, and architecture in the heart of the Andes. Accompanied by a professional guide, you will visit the city’s main attractions, including the Plaza de Armas, the Inca temple of Qoricancha, and nearby archaeological sites such as Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay. Throughout the tour, you will learn about Cusco’s rich Inca and colonial heritage, discovering how the city beautifully combines ancient traditions with Spanish architecture. This tour is perfect for travelers who want to explore Cusco’s highlights in just a few hours, gain detailed insights into local culture, and capture memorable photos. With organized transportation and an expert guide, the experience is comfortable, educational, and an ideal introduction to Peru’s historic capital

4.8(4)
5h
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Cusco City Walking tour: Historia, Tradition, Culture
From $15
Free Cancellation

First time in Cusco? Join us for a walking tour in Cusco. We will learn more about the Inca civilization, visit the remaining streets, palaces and temples all rich with history. Learn about Peruvian and local culture in a visit by foot. All of this in small manageable groups.

3.3(3)
2h
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Cusco Cultural and Tipsy Drinking Tour
From $39
Free Cancellation

Are you ready for a unique experience in Cusco? At Cusco Tipsy Tour, our goal is to provide you with an unforgettable drinkable and cultural afternoon. On this tour, you will visit three places where you will not only learn how to prepare the famous Peruvian "Pisco sour", but you will also have the opportunity to taste the delicious "Te Piteado" meanwhile you paint your own shot glass like we do in Cusco and discover how to pair the best organic chocolate of the world with the most exquisite local craft beer made in "Sacred Valley", amazing right?

5.0(1)
2h
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Cusco City Tour Explore the Inca Heritage and Culture
From $36
Free CancellationNew

Discover the rich history and culture of Cusco, the archaeological capital of the Americas, on this engaging city tour. Visit iconic sites such as the majestic Cusco Cathedral, the historic Qorikancha Temple, and the impressive Sacsayhuaman Fortress. With the expert guidance of a professional bilingual guide, explore ancient ruins and colonial treasures while learning about Inca engineering at Puca Pucará and Tambomachay. The tour also includes a stop at a local textile center to see traditional weaving techniques in action. This 5 - 6 hour tour starts at 8:30 AM, includes transportation and a bilingual guide, and is suitable for all ages, although acclimatization to the altitude is recommended.

5h
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Discover Cusco Walking Private Tour with Magic and Culture
From $45
Free Cancellation👤Private TourNew

Unlike conventional tours, our private walking tour offers a personalized experience, with passionate local guides who tell you the history of Cusco from an authentic perspective, combining culture, legends and everyday life at every step.

2h 30m
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Laguna Humantay Day Tour from Cusco Nature and Culture
From $50
Free CancellationNew

Discover the stunning Laguna Humantay, a hidden gem nestled in the Andes, on this full day tour from Cusco. Depart early from your hotel and travel to the village of Mollepata before embarking on a scenic hike to the turquoise waters of the lagoon, surrounded by majestic mountains. Enjoy a traditional breakfast in Mollepata and a lunch in Soraypampa prepared by a local chef. The hike offers breathtaking views, perfect for photography and connecting with nature, guided by an expert bilingual guide. Round trip transportation from Cusco is included for a convenient and stress-free experience.

12h
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Horseback Riding in Cusco Nature Culture and Tradition
From $55
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Embark on a unique adventure in Cusco and explore the hidden secrets of the Andes! In Chuspiyoq, marvel at the face of an Inca carved from the rock, a natural formation that seems to have been carved by the gods themselves. Then ride to the Temple of the Moon, an enigmatic sacred site where the Incas paid homage to the lunar goddess, surrounded by mountains and mysticism. Finally, discover Zone X, a place full of tunnels, caves and ancient Inca constructions, witnesses of the engineering and spirituality of this civilization. Live an unforgettable horseback riding experience, connect with history and nature, and delve into the Inca legacy like never before. Book now and be part of this amazing journey!

5.0(2)
3h 30m
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Cusco Full Day Cultural and Historical Tour to The Sacred Valley
From $110
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

This private full-day trip is ideal for those looking to have a memorable family day that everyone will enjoy! It gives the choice of starting in Cusco or at the airport and ending in a hotel in Ollantaytambo, connecting with the train to Machu Picchu town, or returning to the same hotel in Cusco city.

6h
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the best sacred valley tour: walk with Alpacas,culture experience
From $128
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Discover the Magic of the Sacred Valley with Alpacas Experience the beauty of the Peruvian Andes on our Sacred Valley Tour with Alpacas. This unique adventure blends stunning landscapes, rich culture, and the company of these gentle Andean animals. Perfect for nature lovers and those seeking an authentic experience. Why Choose Us?Unlike standard tours with large groups and no hiking, we offer an intimate, personalized experience with small groups, a scenic hike, and hotel pickup for your convenience. Our expert local guides ensure a meaningful connection with the Andean way of life. Hike with Friendly Alpacas Enjoy a guided walk through breathtaking trails, accompanied by friendly alpacas. Take in panoramic views of terraced fields, charming villages, and snow-capped peaks while immersing yourself in Andean traditions.

5.0(34)
8h 30m
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Sacred Valley in private: 1 day of Inca culture and landscapes
From $109
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

This is the most complete tour to the Sacred Valley, ideal before your visit to Machupicchu where you will feel the real sensation of life in the Peruvian Andes on a captivating journey through the hidden gems of the Sacred Valley. It will begin with a visit to Chinchero where you can appreciate the textile art and its process, the terraces of Moray, more than 1000 salt pools in Maras, a delicious buffet lunch included at a local hacienda. Finally we will arrive at the imposing fortress of Ollantaytambo. And it doesn't stop there because we will have a small walking tour in the well-known "living town" of Ollantaytambo, feeling immersed in ancient times. We designed this unique itinerary to offer you a perfect combination of local life, architecture, history and wonderful natural landscapes.

5.0(4)
8h
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Cusco Culture & History: Explore Inka Museum | San Pedro Market
From $99.99
Skip The Line👤Private Tour

The Cusco City Tour, an experience to explore the fascinating and emblematic places of the city of Cusco and its surroundings. Given the opportunity to know the origins of the ancient and capital science of the Inca Empire through the historical, artistic and cultural richness of its temples, museums, ruins and buildings.

6h
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Best Authentic Cultural Experience in the Sacred Valley
From $115
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

This is a unique experience!! Nobody offer a tour like this. From our more than 10 years of experience, we have learnt that all people visit the main archeological sites in Cusco and the Sacred Valley, which is great. But we know that you would love to have a different and more relaxing day, having an authentic cultural experience where you can see the daily life of people, interacting with them and enjoying different kinds of food. Well, this is exactly what we want you to experience. We will visit Urubamba market, this market was visited by one of the most famous chefs in the world, Gordon Ramsay who came record an episode of "Gordon Ramsay: uncharted. We will also visit an authentic native community up on the Andes mountains.

5.0(8)
8h
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Cultural Experience in the Andes Ccamahuara Community
From $130
Free Cancellation👤Private TourNew

Discover the vibrant traditions of the Andean community of San Salvador on a full-day traditional lunch experience. Engage with local families as they showcase their ancestral textile weaving techniques, revealing the rich stories woven into their creations. Explore the tranquil Mama Cocha Lagoon, a site steeped in spiritual significance. The highlight: a traditional Andean lunch, where you'll witness and partake in a community-prepared meal made with locally sourced ingredients, enjoying flavors that connect you to Pachamama, or Mother Earth. This unique journey offers a blend of cultural immersion and breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley, perfect for those seeking an authentic Andean adventure.

6h
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Why Choose Cultural Tours in Cusco?

Andean Culture

Experience authentic Andean culture and traditions!

Traditional Communities

Visit traditional communities and experience local life.

Cultural Heritage

Discover rich cultural heritage of Peru's highlands.

Local Traditions

Learn about traditional customs and cultural practices.

Types of Cultural Tours in Cusco

Community Tours

Tours visiting traditional Andean communities and villages.

Traditional communitiesLocal lifeAuthenticCultural immersionCommunities

Textile & Craft Tours

Tours focusing on traditional textile weaving and crafts.

TextilesWeavingCraftsTraditional skillsCultural

Cultural Center Tours

Tours visiting cultural centers showcasing Andean heritage.

Cultural centersHeritageEducationCultural activitiesLearning

Comprehensive Cultural Tours

Full tours combining multiple cultural experiences and communities.

Multiple experiencesComplete overviewComprehensiveDiverseFull day

What to Expect on Your Cusco Cultural Tour

Duration

Half-day cultural tours: 3-4 hours. Full-day comprehensive tours: 6-8 hours with multiple stops.

Cultural Sites

Visit traditional communities, cultural centers, and places showcasing Andean culture.

Cultural Learning

Learn about Andean culture, Quechua traditions, and cultural heritage.

Cultural Experiences

Experience authentic cultural expressions and traditional practices.

Community Interaction

Interact with local communities and understand traditional ways of life.

Photography

Photography opportunities with respect and permission from communities.

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Respectful approach essential - these are real communities, not tourist attractions

2

Ask permission before photographing people - respect privacy and cultural sensitivity

3

Cultural tours provide insight into authentic Andean culture

4

Learn about Quechua culture and traditions

5

Support local communities through purchases when appropriate

6

Follow guide's cultural guidance - they know appropriate behavior

7

Cultural tours educational and rewarding

8

Allow time for cultural understanding and appreciation

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:What cultural experiences are available?

A: Cusco offers rich cultural experiences including visits to traditional communities (Andean villages, local life), textile weaving demonstrations (traditional skills), cultural centers (Andean heritage), and opportunities to understand Quechua culture and traditions! Tours combine multiple experiences for comprehensive cultural understanding. Cusco fascinating blend of Inca, Spanish, and Andean cultures. Cultural tours provide genuine insights into authentic Andean culture. Essential for understanding complete Cusco experience!

Q:How much do cultural tours cost?

A: Half-day cultural tours: $55-85 per person including guide and transport. Full-day comprehensive tours: $110-170 per person. Community tours: $60-100 per person. Private cultural tours: $120-200 per person. Prices typically include guide and transport. Cultural purchases or contributions extra. Some tours include meals or refreshments. Book through reputable operators supporting local communities. Tours provide excellent value for authentic cultural experiences. Supporting communities enhances experience!

Q:Are cultural tours suitable for families?

A: Yes! Cultural tours family-friendly and educational for children. Kids enjoy seeing different cultures, learning about traditions, and experiencing diverse communities. However, involve significant walking and travel - ensure children comfortable. Cultural sensitivity important to teach children. Some tours can be customized for families. Children learn valuable lessons about culture and diversity. Educational experience for all ages. Many families find cultural tours most rewarding part of Cusco visit!

Q:What should I wear?

A: Comfortable, respectful clothing suitable for walking and visiting communities! Comfortable walking shoes essential. Modest attire appropriate for respectful cultural visits. Layers as weather can vary. Weather-appropriate clothing. Respectful dress shows cultural respect. Avoid revealing clothing. Comfort and respect most important considerations. Helps create positive cultural interactions!

Q:Can I take photos?

A: Photography of places and cultural sites generally fine, but always ask permission before photographing people! Local communities appreciate respect for privacy. Some areas welcome photos, others prefer not. Ask guide about photography guidelines for specific stops. Cultural sites often fine to photograph. Consider supporting communities through purchases if photographing. Be respectful and culturally sensitive always. Guides provide photography guidance throughout!

Q:How long do tours take?

A: Basic cultural tours: 3-4 hours covering cultural centers and key cultural sites. Comprehensive tours: 6-8 hours with multiple stops, interactions, and extended exploration. Most visitors find half-day tours (3-4 hours) perfect balance. Full-day tours provide deeper immersion. Tours flexible - discuss preferences with guide. Can combine with other Cusco experiences for complete day. Pace adjusted based on group interests and abilities!

Q:What makes Cusco culturally unique?

A: Cusco culturally unique for blend of Inca heritage, Spanish colonial influences, and living Andean traditions creating distinct cultural identity! Quechua culture still alive and vibrant. Traditional customs continue today. Textile weaving and crafts preserved. Blend of ancient and modern. Cultural tours show how different cultures contribute to Cusco identity. Fascinating example of cultural preservation. Essential for understanding what makes Cusco special. Unique cultural blend!

Q:Can I buy cultural items on tours?

A: Yes! Many tours include opportunities to purchase traditional Andean crafts, textiles, and cultural items! Buying directly supports local communities and artisans. Traditional textiles, crafts, and cultural items available. Guides help with purchases and explain cultural significance. Great souvenirs - authentic and meaningful. Support local communities through purchases. Purchasing items helps preserve traditional crafts and supports artisans. Ethical and meaningful shopping!

Don't Miss the Perfect Cusco Experience

Book your cultural tours today - 20+ tours with instant confirmation & best price guarantee!

Why Visit Cusco?

Former Inca capital with rich history

Ancient ruins and archaeological sites

Beautiful colonial architecture

Gateway to Machu Picchu

Rich Andean culture and traditions

Perfect blend of Inca and Spanish heritage

Best Time to Visit

Weather

Cusco enjoys a cool highland climate with average temperatures around 55°F (13°C). The city experiences distinct wet and dry seasons.

Best Months

May to October offers the best weather with dry conditions and clear skies.

Peak Season

June to August brings peak tourist season with ideal weather, larger crowds, and higher prices.

Off Season

November to April offers lower prices and fewer crowds, though with more rain.

Plan Your Cusco Trip

Transportation Tips

Walking is perfect for exploring the historic center. Organized tours include transportation to nearby sites and the Sacred Valley.

Car Rental Deals in Cusco

Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.

Where to Stay

Find the perfect accommodation for your Cusco adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.

Best Hotel Deals in Cusco

Discover top-rated hotels with exclusive rates and special offers on Trivago USA.

Ready to Explore Cusco?

Discover the best tours and activities in Cusco with AI-powered recommendations tailored just for you.