In this section, we will answer any questions you might have regarding Cusco Peru weather, elevation, and altitude. We will also answer any concerns regarding our tours. If you would like to more or we haven’t provided the answer you are looking for, please get in touch.
Cusco Weather, Altitude and Elevation
How is the Cusco Peru weather?
Cusco’s climate is characterized as a subtropical highland climate. That means that day-time temperatures stay relatively stable between 15-25 °C (59-77°F) all year round with moderate amounts of rain. Winter is between April and September with the most sunshine in July. Summer is from October to March. It sees mostly cloudy skies and a wetter climate. Please note that the sun is intense in Cusco, so sunscreen is advised even when it is overcast.
Cusco Peru weather forecast in English.
Peruvian weather forecast in Spanish.
What’s Cusco’s altitude and elevation? How will it affect me?
The city of Cusco sits at around 3,400m/11,1100 feet in altitude above sea level. Machu Picchu and the Secret Valley sit slightly lower (around 2,500m above sea level). The human body starts to react to the lack of oxygen as a result of elevation above 2,500m in altitude. Therefore, when you come to Cusco, your body will most likely have to adjust for a few days. However, on our tours, we will share what Incas would have recommended for altitude sickness in Cusco. Furthermore, we will take it easy with no steep inclines or many steps on the tour so that you can enjoy the experience in any condition and with any fitness level.
The high altitude in Cusco and its surrounding area is also why so many exotic plants and foods grow in the area. On our afternoon tour and our trip to San Pedro Market, you will learn about local crops such as quinoa.
What is the terrain like in Cusco?
Mountains surround Cusco, and once in the city, you will spot that many of the neighbourhoods extend up the steep inclines. Stairs and narrow streets connect the different corners of the town. However, the city centre, with its sights and attractions is mostly flat and accessible. We still recommend sturdy footwear on our tours as some of the pavements can be slippery – especially when it rains.
Qosqo Pacha Tours
Are the guides certified guides?
Yes, our guides are certified and operate with the permit required by the Cusco government for all guides.
What makes your tour different from other free walking tours in Cusco?
Our tours are very flexible, which means that the tour guide will adapt the visit to the interest of the guests if required. Generally, we follow the standard free walking tour route, but this can be modified as per special request during the walk. Our guides have a lot of insider knowledge of Cusco. Therefore, any corner of Cusco you would like to explore, let us take you.
Where is the meeting point for the tours?
The meeting for our tours will be in front of the Church of the Society of Jesus (Iglesia De La Compañia De Jesús) on Plaza de Armas close to Starbucks. Your guide will be wearing a grey t-shirt with our logo and holding the Cusco flag of 7 colors.
What time does the tour start?
We offer three tours from Monday to Saturday.
First morning tour: 10 am
Second afternoon tour: 1:30 pm
Private/customized tour: 4:00 pm (please book in advance)
How long does the tour take?
The tour will last around two hours.
Do I require a reservation for the tour?
To guarantee your place, please contact us on Whatsapp, Facebook, Email, phone, or through the contact form on our website.
What languages do the tour guides speak?
The tours we offer are in English and Spanish. We also offer tours in French and Portuguese upon request.
What should I bring with me on the tour?
- Sturdy footwear (some pavements can be slippery)
- A jacket or umbrella in case of rain
- Sunscreen and a sun hat for sun protection
- Sunglasses
- A bottle of water
- A good camera to take pictures
Is the tour really free?
We do not charge a fee for the tours. These tours are run solely based on tips to cover our expenses and to allow us to continue to provide a quality service. At the end of the tour, you can tip our guides based on whether you enjoyed your experience.
We also offer private tours where we agree on the price in advance upon booking. We base the cost on the number of people and any specific requests to cover a particular aspect of Cusco’s history.