Cusco, Peru
Cusco Panoramic Bus Tour
Explore Cusco on an open-top panoramic bus tour through the historic center, San Blas, Sacsayhuamán, Puca Pucara, Cristo Blanco and other highlights of the city.
See Cusco from a different angle on our panoramic open-top bus tour. We leave the historic center and climb into the hills surrounding the city, passing traditional neighborhoods and some of Cusco’s most important archaeological and cultural landmarks. It is an easy way to get your bearings, enjoy the views and learn more about the city as you travel.
Along the way, our guide brings the journey to life with stories about Cusco, Andean traditions and the places we pass. You will see the city from San Cristóbal, visit the surroundings of Sacsayhuamán and Puca Pucara, learn about local traditions, share a small anise tasting and take part in an Andean ceremony of gratitude to Pachamama before returning toward the historic center.
A moment to connect with the Andes: an Andean ceremony of gratitude to Pachamama.
A special stop to connect with the Andes: a ceremony of gratitude to Pachamama. During the tour, we make a special stop where we get off the bus for an Andean ceremony of gratitude to Pachamama. It is an opportunity to experience a living Andean tradition and learn about the importance of Mother Earth in Andean culture.
Cusco panoramic bus tour itinerary
Historic center · San Blas · Sacsayhuamán · Puca Pucara · Cristo Blanco · Qorikancha
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1
Plaza de Armas — where the journey begins
We begin in the heart of Cusco with an explanation of the Plaza de Armas and its importance to the city. Our guide introduces the Inca and colonial history that shaped the historic center before we set off toward the upper part of Cusco.
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2
Calle Amargura & the road to San Blas
We leave the main square and continue along Calle Amargura toward the upper part of the city. From the open-top bus, you can watch Cusco gradually unfold around you as we approach the traditional neighborhood of San Blas.
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3
San Cristóbal viewpoint & Andean plants
We pass by the historic Temple of San Cristóbal and enjoy views over Cusco from the hillside. During this part of the route, our guide also introduces some of the medicinal plants traditionally known and used in the Andes.
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4
Sacsayhuamán & the chincanas
We reach the archaeological area of Sacsayhuamán, one of the most impressive Inca sites surrounding Cusco. We observe its enormous stone structures and the chincanas, passages carved into the rock that form part of the mystery and history surrounding this ancient ceremonial complex.
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5
Puca Pucara, Pukará bulls & a traditional toast
The route continues toward the archaeological site of Puca Pucara. Along the way, we appreciate the traditional Pukará bulls, a familiar symbol of Andean culture. We also share a small tasting of anise liqueur and make a toast together before continuing the journey.
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6
Andean ceremony
One of the most memorable moments of the tour is an Andean ceremony of gratitude. Led by an Andean priest, the ceremony offers visitors a respectful introduction to the living traditions of the Andes and the relationship between people, nature and Pachamama.
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7
Qenqo & Cristo Blanco
We continue toward Qenqo and then head to Cristo Blanco, one of the best-known viewpoints over Cusco. From here, the historic center, surrounding neighborhoods and mountains create one of the most memorable panoramic views of the city.
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8
Qorikancha — the Temple of the Sun
On our way back to the historic center, we pass by the exterior of Qorikancha, the famous Temple of the Sun and one of the most important sacred places of the Inca world. Our guide explains its significance and the transformation of this important site after the Spanish conquest.
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9
Casa de la Cultura San Bernardo
We finish the route near the Casa de la Cultura San Bernardo, returning to the historic center after seeing Cusco from its streets, hills and viewpoints. It is the end of a journey designed to give you a broader and more personal introduction to the city.
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Views along the way
Good to know before your Cusco bus tour
What’s included +
Professional tour guide
Panoramic open-top bus ticket
Tourist transportation
Anise tasting and traditional toast
Andean ceremony experience
Food and full meals
Personal expenses
What to bring +
- · A light jacket — temperatures can change quickly in Cusco
- · Sunscreen and a hat
- · Water to stay hydrated
- · A camera or phone for the panoramic views
- · Arrive 10–15 minutes before departure
Frequently asked questions +
Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is at our office on Santa Catalina Angosta 120, in the historic center of Cusco. From there we begin the route toward the Plaza de Armas and the upper part of the city.
Is the Cusco panoramic bus tour suitable for children?
Yes. The tour is suitable for families and travelers of different ages. Children should remain accompanied by an adult throughout the journey.
Does the tour visit Sacsayhuamán?
Yes. The route reaches the archaeological area of Sacsayhuamán, where you can observe its impressive stone structures and surrounding features from the tour route.
Does the tour include Cristo Blanco?
Yes. Cristo Blanco is one of the main viewpoints on the route, offering broad views over Cusco and the surrounding mountains.
Can I eat or drink on the bus?
Small snacks and drinks are allowed. We also include a small anise tasting and a traditional toast during the tour.
Is the bus open on top?
Yes. The panoramic bus has an open-top deck designed to give you a better view of Cusco and its surrounding landscapes. We recommend bringing a light jacket and sun protection.
Our panoramic bus fleet
Our double-decker buses are designed for sightseeing, with an open-air upper deck that lets you enjoy Cusco’s streets, archaeological sites and mountain views along the way.
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