Perched high in the Peruvian Andes, Cusco is a vibrant city overflowing with history, culture, and stunning architecture. Once the pulsating heart of the Inca Empire, Cusco now stands as a dynamic hub for travellers eager to dive into its captivating blend of ancient ruins, colonial charm, and lively modern life. For an unforgettable experience, a walking tour is the ideal way to immerse yourself in all that this remarkable city has to offer.
The Bloody Bueno Free Walking Tour is a premier choice for those who want to intimately discover the city’s highlights, hidden gems, and intriguing stories. With three convenient tour times—10:00 am, 1:00 pm, and 3:30 pm—you can easily find a slot that fits your agenda. Whether you choose a refreshing morning walk or a leisurely afternoon stroll, this tour guarantees an exceptional mix of history, local culture, and expert insights. Meeting at the entrance of Starbucks in the main square (Plaza de Armas) makes it effortless to kick off your adventure.
Join this free walking tour and experience the very best of Cusco. Prepare to be captivated as they highlight key stops along this amazing journey!
The Beginning: Plaza de Armas – Cusco’s Iconic Main Square
Every fantastic free walking tour begins at a central spot, and the Bloody Bueno free walking tour kicks things off at the lovely Plaza de Armas, Cusco’s main square. This vibrant square has been a gathering place since Inca times, where people came together for ceremonies and important meetings, known back then as Huacaypata.
Today, the Plaza de Armas is surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings that perfectly blend with the ancient Inca foundations. You’ll find two of Cusco’s most famous landmarks here: the Cusco Cathedral and the Church of La Compañía de Jesús. Both are adorned with stunning facades and intricate interiors that tell the story of the city’s rich colonial history. Take a moment to soak in the lively atmosphere, filled with friendly street vendors, locals, tourists, and performers, before we continue our adventure.
As the guide shares interesting stories and fun facts, you’ll discover how Cusco transformed from an Inca stronghold into a charming Spanish colonial city. The contrast between the ancient Inca stonework and the beautiful Spanish baroque architecture is truly captivating. The Plaza de Armas is the perfect starting point for us to explore and enjoy the many layers of history that make Cusco so special!
The Amaru Cancha: The Temple of the Snake
The Bloody Bueno Free Walking Tour invites you to discover the charming Amaru Cancha, affectionately known as the “Temple of the Snake.” While it might not be on everyone’s radar, this hidden gem offers a delightful peek into the spiritual and architectural wonders of Inca culture.
In Quechua, “Amaru” means snake, and this creature holds a special place in Inca cosmology. The snake represents the underworld and is one of three sacred animals honored by the Incas, along with the puma and the condor. As you stroll toward the ruins of Amaru Cancha, your friendly guide will share fascinating stories about these animals and how they relate to the Incas’ views on life, death, and the universe.
The Temple of the Snake once served as an important site for Inca ceremonies. You’ll be amazed by its surviving walls, made of expertly cut and interlocked stones, showcasing the incredible engineering talent of the Inca civilization. During the tour, you’ll have the chance to explore the Incas’ religious and philosophical ideas, helping you connect with their profound relationship with nature and the divine. The cultural and spiritual significance of this site, combined with the symbolism of the snake, makes it a truly special stop on your journey!
The Famous 12-Angled Stone
As you wander through the charming cobblestone streets of Cusco, one of the most exciting stops on your tour is the famous 12-Angled Stone, tucked away along the old Inca road known as Hatunrumiyoc. This incredible stone is a fantastic example of Inca masonry and really showcases the skill and creativity of this ancient civilization.
With its twelve visible angles, the 12-Angled Stone is beautifully integrated into a perfectly aligned wall. The way it fits snugly with the other stones, without needing any mortar, will leave you in awe! It’s not just stunning to look at; it also highlights the Inca’s amazing sense of design and their clever understanding of how to build structures that can withstand earthquakes. As you take in this unique stone, your guide will share some fun insights about the techniques used by Inca engineers to achieve such a perfect fit. The 12-Angled Stone isn’t just a great spot for a photo; it’s a truly special symbol of Inca brilliance that continues to impress people, both then and now!
Siete Borreguitos: A Hidden Gem
Before you head to the San Blas neighbourhood, you’ll take a lovely stroll down Siete Borreguitos, a charming little street that brings a whimsical vibe to the journey. The name, which translates to “Seven Little Sheep,” perfectly captures the street’s cozy, fairy-tale feel. As you wander along this narrow, cobblestone lane, you’ll notice the colourful doorways, cute balconies, and cheerful plants spilling out of the windows.
Your guide will share fascinating stories about this unique street, which has roots in both Inca and colonial times, just like many spots in Cusco. Today, it’s a peaceful residential area that often goes unnoticed by tourists, but its quiet charm and warm atmosphere make it a delightful part of the Bloody Bueno free walking tour. I really recommend you to experience it!
San Blas: The Bohemian Heart of Cusco
No free walking tour Cusco is really complete without stopping by the lovely San Blas neighbourhood, which is a favourite spot for both locals and travellers alike! This charming area, known as the city’s bohemian district, features delightful cobblestone streets lined with beautiful colonial houses, cozy art studios, and inviting cafés.
San Blas is a fantastic place for those who love craftsmanship. You’ll find a variety of galleries and workshops where you can discover everything from stunning textiles to beautifully hand-carved wooden sculptures. It’s a wonderful opportunity to pop into these shops, meet the talented artisans, and learn about the traditional Andean art forms that have been cherished for generations.
As you wander through San Blas, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The narrow streets are filled with charm, and the vibrant creative energy from the artists who call this neighbourhood home is truly inspiring!
The Grand Finale: Pisco Sour and Trout Ceviche at Limbus Restaurant
After exploring the charming streets of San Blas, the Bloody Bueno Free Walking Tour wraps up in style at Limbus Restaurant, a delightful spot perched on a hill with amazing views of Cusco. You’ll be treated to one of the best panoramas of the city, making it the perfect place to take in the stunning beauty around you.
As a special treat, you’ll get to enjoy a Pisco Sour, Peru’s famous cocktail. Sipping this refreshing drink while watching the sun dip behind the mountains is such a lovely way to finish the tour! If you join the first tour of the day at 10:00 AM, there’s an extra bonus: you’ll have the chance to learn how to make trout ceviche, a delicious local dish that combines fresh trout with zesty citrus and herbs. It’s a fun experience that introduces you to the wonderful flavours of the region and lets you take a piece of Cusco’s culinary magic home with you.
Conclusion: The Ultimate Way to Experience Cusco
Join the Bloody Bueno Free Walking Tour for a fun and engaging experience that dives into the rich history, lively culture, and stunning sights of Cusco! With three convenient time slots—10:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 3:30 PM—it’s so easy to fit this adventure into your day, whether you’re an early riser or an afternoon explorer.
You’ll kick off from the charming Plaza de Armas and wander through the heart of the city together. You’ll get to visit the spiritually significant Amaru Cancha, be amazed by the famous 12-Angled Stone, and stroll down the lovely Siete Borreguitos street, all leading you to the artistic San Blas neighbourhood. To top it all off, you’ll wrap up at Limbus Restaurant, where you can enjoy a refreshing Pisco Sour and even learn how to whip up some delicious trout ceviche!
No matter if you’re passionate about history, love architecture, or just love to explore, the Bloody Bueno Free Walking Tour is designed to be a fun and memorable way for you to experience the best of Cusco. By the end of our journey, you’ll have not only seen the city’s iconic spots, but you’ll also have savoured its flavours, heard fascinating stories, and truly connected with one of the most wonderful cities in the world.
Finally, a reminder that the walking tours operate on a tip-based system. After gaining valuable insights from your tour guide, be sure to express your appreciation with a tip that reflects the quality of the experience!
This sounds absolutely amazing—’Bloody Bueno’ indeed! I’m always on the hunt for unique and memorable experiences when traveling, and this walking tour sounds like the perfect way to dive into Cusco’s history and culture. The fact that it’s free is just the icing on the cake! Adding this to my must-do list for when I visit—thanks for sharing such a killer recommendation!