Hidden Hiking Experience Above Cusco
The Free Hiking Tour Cusco is an alternative hiking experience above the city that combines nature, hidden Inca trails, panoramic viewpoints, and local culture.
This tour is designed for travelers who want to explore a quieter and more natural side of Cusco beyond the historic center.
Led by a local guide, the experience includes sacred sites, forest trails, and viewpoints overlooking the city.
Perfect for:
- Hidden hiking routes in Cusco
- Nature and outdoor experiences
- Panoramic viewpoints
- Acclimatization on arrival
- Light adventure hiking
- Inca symbolism and culture
Schedule & Tour Details
The hiking tour operates daily in small groups.
Departure times:
- 9:45 am
- 3:00 pm
Tour details:
- Duration: approx. 2.5 hours
- Difficulty: easy to moderate
- Type: guided hiking experience
- Price: free tour (tip-based)
Important:
Bring 6 soles in cash for taxi transport from Plaza de Armas to the starting point at Qenqo.
Route & Hiking Experience
The meeting point of the Free Hiking Tour Cusco is in front of the Inca Statue in the center of Plaza de Armas Cusco (Main Square).
The experience begins with a short taxi ride from Plaza de Armas to the Qenqo area, where the hiking route starts.
During the hike, you will explore:
- Qenqo archaeological site (outside)
- Moon Temple (sacred rock formations and caves)
- Monkey Temple hidden trails
- Original Inca pathways
- Eucalyptus forest trails
- Panoramic viewpoints over Cusco
- San Blas viewpoint
Along the route, your guide explains Inca symbolism, local legends, rock formations, and the cultural history of the area.
The tour ends with a descent toward San Blas, enjoying panoramic views of Cusco.
Reviews from Travelers
Travelers describe this hiking tour as one of the most unique outdoor experiences in Cusco.
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Meeting Point – Free Hiking Tour Cusco
The meeting point is in front of the Inca Statue, located in the center of Plaza de Armas (Main Square) in Cusco.
Look for Jose Martinez (Cusco Guide) wearing a red “Free Walking Tour Cusco” or “Cusco Guide” T-shirt.
Please arrive 5 minutes before your scheduled departure time. The tour begins promptly 5 minutes after the scheduled start time, and late arrivals may not be able to join the group.
What to Bring
Please bring:
- Comfortable hiking shoes (no sandals)
- Sunscreen
- Hat or cap
- Bottled water
- Light jacket (afternoon tours)
- Warm layer for cold weather
This hike is suitable for travelers with basic physical condition due to altitude and walking terrain.
Why This Hiking Tour in Cusco?
This experience is one of the best ways to explore nature and Inca heritage around Cusco without crowds.
It combines hiking, panoramic views, hidden archaeological sites, and local storytelling.
It is also an excellent acclimatization activity before visiting Machu Picchu or higher altitude destinations.