Free Hiking Tour Cusco – Moon Temple, Monkey Temple & Hidden Inca Trails

Moon Temple in Cusco, Peru, an ancient Inca site with spiritual significance.
Moon Temple - A Sacred Inca Site in Cusco
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.

Book Your "Free Hiking Tour Cusco"
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.

Free Hiking Tour Cusco – Hidden Trails, Inca Paths & Amazing Views
Side view of the Moon Temple outcrop, showcasing the natural rock formation and ancient Inca stonework in Cusco, Peru.
Side View of the Moon Temple Outcrop - Ancient Inca Stonework
Puma-shaped stone carving at the Moon Temple, Cusco, Peru, symbolizing strength and spiritual significance in Inca culture.
Puma Shape - Sacred Inca Symbol at the Moon Temple
Condor-shaped stone carvings at the Moon Temple, Cusco, Peru, showcasing intricate Inca art and symbolism.
Condor Shapes - Sacred Stone Carvings at the Moon Temple
The Moon Temple in Cusco is home to an impressive puma-shaped stone carving, a representation of the sacred animal in Inca cosmology. The puma is a symbol of strength and power, often associated with the earthly realm and the forces of nature. In Inca belief, the puma represents the world of the living, bridging the connection between the physical and spiritual realms. The intricate carving at the Moon Temple serves as a testament to the importance of animal symbolism in Inca culture, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich spiritual life of the ancient Andean people.
Snake Shape - Sacred Symbol of Transformation at the Moon Temple
Three curved niches near the Moon Temple stone, resembling portals to another dimension, symbolizing the Inca connection to the spiritual world.
Curved Niches Near the Moon Temple Stone - Spiritual Portals in Inca Beliefs
Inca Trail descending from the jungle, with lush greenery and ancient stone pathways leading toward Cusco, Peru.
Inca Trail Descent - From the Jungle to Cusco
Curved circle stone formation near the Monkey Temple, representing Inca cosmology and spiritual symbolism.
Curved Circle Near the Monkey Temple - A Symbol of Inca Spirituality
Curved heart-shaped stone carving at the Monkey Temple, symbolizing love, balance, and spiritual unity in Inca beliefs.
Curved Heart - Sacred Symbol at the Monkey Temple
Monkey-shaped stone carving at the Monkey Temple, symbolizing agility, intelligence, and spiritual connection in Inca culture.
Monkey Shape - Sacred Carving at the Monkey Temple
A corner view of Plaza de Armas in Cusco, featuring colonial architecture and bustling atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Corner View of Plaza de Armas in Cusco