Walk through time in the ancient capital of the Inca Empire.
Cusco is not just a city; it is an open-air museum where two vastly different worlds collide. Built upon the flawless, megalithic foundations of the Inca Empire, the Spanish conquistadors erected their colonial churches and mansions, creating a breathtaking architectural fusion found nowhere else on Earth.
Led by our expert local guides, this comprehensive 4-hour walking tour takes you away from the typical tourist traps. We will wander through the bohemian, cobblestone streets of San Blas, decode the mystery of the 12-Angled Stone, step inside the majestic Cusco Cathedral, and stand in awe inside Qoricancha—once the most sacred temple of the Inca world. We conclude our journey at the vibrant San Pedro Market, perfectly connecting Cusco's rich history with the living, breathing gastronomy you enjoy in our cooking classes.
Begin your journey in Cusco's most picturesque and bohemian district. As we stroll through its steep, narrow cobblestone streets lined with whitewashed walls and striking blue doors, your guide will share fascinating tales of the ancient artisan families who have inhabited this creative hub since the days of the Inca Empire.
Walking down the historic Hatun Rumiyoc Street, flanked by original Inca palace walls, you will encounter the legendary 12-Angled Stone. This masterpiece of ancient engineering perfectly illustrates the unparalleled precision of Inca masonry, built without a single drop of mortar and designed with anti-seismic brilliance to withstand centuries of earthquakes.
Arrive at the majestic Plaza de Armas, the ancient center of the Inca universe known as Huacaypata. Here, we will step inside the magnificent Cusco Cathedral. You will be captivated by its immense collection of colonial art, including the famous Andean Last Supper, and learn how indigenous artists secretly wove their own cultural symbols into Spanish Catholic canvases.
Next, we explore Qoricancha, the most sacred and important religious, political, and astronomical center of the Incas. Discover the striking contrast between the masterful Inca stonework dedicated to the Sun, Moon, and Stars, and the colonial Santo Domingo Convent that the Spanish conquistadors built directly on top of its golden foundations.
We conclude our walking tour by mingling with the locals at Cusco's oldest and most vibrant market. Wander through colorful aisles of exotic fruits, Andean superfoods, and traditional textiles. It is the perfect cultural immersion and a wonderful prelude to the rich gastronomy you can experience in our culinary studio.
