Tourist Ticket Cusco
The Tourist Ticket Cusco is your golden pass to explore some of the most important historical, cultural, and natural attractions in Cusco and the Sacred Valley. Whether you are visiting for a few days or planning a longer trip, this ticket will allow you to access several sites at a reduced price compared to buying separate entrance tickets.
In this complete guide, you will learn everything about the Cusco Tourist Ticket, including what it is, what it includes, prices, where to buy it, and tips to make the most out of your visit.
What is the Tourist Ticket Cusco?
The Tourist Ticket Cusco (Boleto Turístico del Cusco) is an official pass issued by the “Comité de Servicios Integrados Turístico Culturales del Cusco” (COSITUC). This ticket grants access to various archaeological parks, museums, and cultural centers located in the city of Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and the South Valley.
It was created to make it easier for visitors to explore the most emblematic sites in the region while promoting cultural tourism and heritage conservation.
With just one purchase, you can visit multiple attractions without having to pay individually at each site.
Types of Tourist Ticket Cusco
There are two main types of the Tourist Ticket Cusco:
1. Full Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico Integral)
Validity: 10 consecutive days
Includes: All 16 sites (Cusco, Sacred Valley, South Valley)
Recommended for: Travelers who want to explore the entire region in depth.
2. Partial Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico Parcial)
Validity: 1 or 2 consecutive days depending on the circuit
Includes: Only specific groups of attractions divided into three circuits:
Circuit I – Sacred Valley
Chinchero Archaeological Park
Moray Archaeological Complex
Circuit II – City of Cusco + Nearby Ruins
Sacsayhuamán Archaeological Park
Q’enqo Archaeological Park
Puka Pukara Archaeological Park
Tambomachay Archaeological Park
Cusco Museum of Contemporary Art
Regional Historical Museum
Museum of Popular Art
Qoricancha Site Museum
Circuit III – South Valley
Tipón Archaeological Park
Pikillaqta Archaeological Park
Andahuaylillas (San Pedro Church)
Attractions Included in the Full Tourist Ticket Cusco
1. Sacsayhuamán
One of the most impressive Inca archaeological sites, famous for its massive stone walls and panoramic view of Cusco.
2. Q’enqo
A ceremonial center believed to have been used for rituals and astronomical observations.
3. Puka Pukara
Known as the «Red Fortress», it served as a military and administrative post.
4. Tambomachay
Also called the «Bath of the Inca», this site features aqueducts, canals, and waterfalls.
5. Pisac Archaeological Park
Located in the Sacred Valley, it has agricultural terraces, temples, and a vibrant handicraft market.
6. Ollantaytambo Archaeological Park
An Inca fortress and town, key to Inca resistance against the Spanish conquest.
7. Chinchero
A picturesque Andean village with Inca ruins, colonial architecture, and traditional weaving demonstrations.
8. Moray
Circular terraces believed to have been an Inca agricultural laboratory.
9. Tipón
An engineering marvel with sophisticated Inca water channels.
10. Pikillaqta
A pre-Inca archaeological site built by the Wari culture.
11. Andahuaylillas
Home to the Church of San Pedro, often called the «Sistine Chapel of America».
12. Cusco Museum of Contemporary Art
Showcases modern works by local artists.
13. Regional Historical Museum
Exhibits artifacts from pre-Inca, Inca, and colonial periods.
14. Museum of Popular Art
Features handicrafts and folk art from the Cusco region.
15. Qoricancha Site Museum
Displays artifacts found in the Temple of the Sun area.
16. Monument to the Inca Pachacutec
A large tower with panoramic views of Cusco.
Tourist Ticket Cusco Prices (2025)
| Type of Ticket | Price Foreigners | Price Peruvians | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Ticket | 130 PEN | 70 PEN | 10 days |
| Partial Ticket Circuit I | 70 PEN | 40 PEN | 1 day |
| Partial Ticket Circuit II | 70 PEN | 40 PEN | 2 days |
| Partial Ticket Circuit III | 70 PEN | 40 PEN | 2 days |
Children under 10 years old usually enter free with ID.
Where to Buy the Tourist Ticket Cusco
You can buy the Tourist Ticket Cusco at:
COSITUC Main Office: Av. El Sol 103, Cusco
At the entrance of included sites
Official tour operators
Currently, the ticket is not sold online, so you must purchase it in person.
What is NOT Included in the Tourist Ticket Cusco?
Some popular attractions require separate tickets:
Machu Picchu
Huayna Picchu
Maras Salt Mines
Cusco Cathedral
Qoricancha Temple
If you plan to visit these sites, you must buy their tickets separately.
Tips to Make the Most of the Tourist Ticket Cusco
Plan your itinerary according to the ticket’s validity.
Combine nearby sites to save time and transport costs.
Hire a local guide to understand the history and culture.
Start early to avoid crowds, especially in high season.
Bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes for walking.
Keep your ticket safe; replacements are not issued.
Best Time to Use the Tourist Ticket Cusco
The best time to visit is during the dry season (May to September) when the weather is sunnier and rain is less frequent. However, the rainy season (November to March) offers fewer crowds and greener landscapes.
Why Buy the Tourist Ticket Cusco?
Cost savings: Visiting all sites separately would cost much more.
Convenience: One ticket for multiple attractions.
Cultural immersion: Access to diverse Inca and colonial heritage sites.
Final Thoughts
The Tourist Ticket Cusco is an essential pass for any traveler wanting to explore the richness of Cusco and its surroundings. From iconic Inca fortresses to charming Andean villages, this ticket gives you access to the best the region has to offer while supporting cultural heritage preservation.
Make sure to choose the type of ticket that matches your itinerary and take advantage of the opportunity to immerse yourself in the history, culture, and beauty of the Peruvian Andes.
Introduction to the Pachacutec Monument
Standing tall and proud at the heart of Cusco, the Monument to the Inca Pachacutec is more than just a statue — it’s a powerful tribute to one of the greatest leaders in world history. Pachacutec Inca Yupanqui, the ninth Sapa Inca, transformed a small highland kingdom into the vast and sophisticated Inca Empire (Tahuantinsuyo) in the 15th century.
As a professional guide, I can tell you that this monument is not just an attraction; it’s an opportunity to walk through the history, legacy, and vision of the man who redesigned Cusco into the imperial capital and expanded Inca rule across the Andes.
Historical Background of Pachacutec
Who Was Pachacutec?
Pachacutec (meaning “Earth Shaker” in Quechua) reigned from 1438 to 1471 and is remembered for:
Expanding the empire from Cusco to what is now Colombia, Chile, and Argentina.
Reorganizing the empire’s administration.
Initiating monumental construction projects like Machu Picchu, Sacsayhuamán, and the grand city layout of Cusco itself.
The Visionary Ruler
Before Pachacutec, the Incas were a regional power. Under his leadership, they became the largest empire in pre-Columbian America. His reforms in agriculture, infrastructure, and governance left a legacy that still shapes Andean culture today.
The Monument’s History
Construction
The Monument to the Inca Pachacutec was inaugurated in the late 20th century to honor the 500th anniversary of his achievements. It stands in Pachacutec Square (Plaza Pachacutec), a symbolic location chosen to connect modern Cusco with its imperial past.
Design
Base Tower: Cylindrical structure representing Inca architecture.
Statue: A bronze sculpture of Pachacutec holding a tupu (staff) and pointing toward the horizon, symbolizing leadership and vision.
Height: Around 11.5 meters (38 ft) including the pedestal.
Exploring the Monument
1. Exterior View
The tower-like pedestal is decorated with Inca-inspired motifs, reminiscent of stonework found in Sacsayhuamán. The imposing bronze statue above dominates the skyline.
2. Interior Museum
Inside the base, there’s a small museum showcasing:
Inca history and Pachacutec’s reign
Scale models of Cusco during the Inca period
Replicas of Inca artifacts and clothing
3. Panoramic Viewpoint
Visitors can climb the internal stairs to the top of the pedestal, reaching a viewing platform just below the statue. From here, you enjoy 360° views of Cusco, including:
The historic center
Surrounding mountains
Avenida Sol leading toward Plaza de Armas
Location and How to Visit
Location
Address: Plaza Pachacutec, Av. Sol, Cusco, Peru
Distance from Plaza de Armas: ~2 km, about 20–25 minutes walking
How to Get There
On foot: Follow Av. Sol south from the city center.
Taxi: Quick and inexpensive from anywhere in central Cusco.
Often visited on the way to Cusco’s Wanchaq district or before taking a bus to the Sacred Valley.
Opening Hours and Entry Fees
Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (may vary on holidays)
Entrance Fee: Small fee (~S/ 2–5), cash only
Tickets are purchased at the entrance
Tips from a Guide
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
Bring water — the climb inside the monument involves several flights of stairs.
Pair your visit with the Cusco Craft Market nearby for souvenirs.
Cultural and Symbolic Importance
The Monument to Pachacutec is more than a piece of public art — it’s a symbol of indigenous pride and resilience. Modern Cusqueños see Pachacutec not just as a historical figure, but as a source of inspiration for unity and vision in the Andes.
Fun Facts
The statue’s pointing gesture is said to represent guidance toward the future.
Pachacutec’s remains are believed to have been hidden by the Incas during the Spanish conquest, and their location is still a mystery.
The surrounding plaza is a popular venue for parades and cultural celebrations.
Suggested Itinerary Including the Monument
Morning visit to the Pachacutec Monument and viewpoint.
Short walk to the Cusco Craft Market.
Continue along Av. Sol to Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun).
Lunch in the historic center.
Quick Facts Table
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Monument to the Inca Pachacutec |
| Location | Plaza Pachacutec, Av. Sol, Cusco, Peru |
| Height | ~11.5 m |
| Material | Bronze (statue) and stone (pedestal) |
| Opened | Late 20th century |
| Inside | Small museum + viewpoint |
| Best Time to Visit | Morning or late afternoon |
| Entry Fee | S/ 2–5 |
| Visit Duration | 30–60 minutes |
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
As your guide, I can confidently say the Monument to the Inca Pachacutec offers more than a photo opportunity. It’s a place where you can literally stand at the feet of the man who shaped the destiny of an empire, look out over the city he redesigned, and feel the heartbeat of Inca history.
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