Free self-guided walk · Cusco

From the Plaza de Armas to San Blas and Qorikancha

A free self-guided walk from Cusco's Plaza de Armas past the Inca stonework of Calle Hatunrumiyoc to San Blas, then down to Qorikancha and the San Pedro Market.

Distance
2.6 km
Walking time
35 min
Allow
About 2 hours with stops
Stops
5

Open the route in Google MapsCusco city guide

About this walk

Cusco was the capital of the Inca Empire, and Spanish churches and mansions were built directly on its stone walls. This walk shows both: Inca masonry in narrow streets, the artisans' quarter of San Blas and the Inca sun temple under a Dominican church.

Cusco sits at about 3,400 metres. Take it slowly on your first day.

  • Terrain: Steep cobbled streets and steps up to San Blas; flat around the plaza. The altitude makes every climb harder.
  • Best time: Morning, when the light is good and churches are open.

Route map

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Route and stop positions © OpenStreetMap contributors. North is up.

The stops

  1. Plaza de Armas

    Start in the main square, with the cathedral and the Jesuit church.

  2. Calle Hatunrumiyoc

    A narrow street lined with Inca walls, including the famous twelve-angled stone.

  3. Plaza San Blas

    The small square at the top of the artisans' quarter, with a simple colonial church.

  4. Qorikancha

    The Inca sun temple, with the church and convent of Santo Domingo built on top (ticket needed).

  5. San Pedro Market

    Finish at the central market for juices, soups and local produce.

Tips

  • Drink water and avoid heavy meals on your first day at altitude.
  • The Boleto Turístico covers many sites, but not Qorikancha or the cathedral.
  • Sacsayhuamán is a steep climb above the city if you're acclimatised.

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Sources and review date

This walk was last reviewed on 2026-10-28. Distance and walking time come from OpenStreetMap's walking router and don't include time at stops. Opening hours and access change; please check before you go.