The Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico del Cusco) is a comprehensive pass that gives access to many of the major archaeological sites, museums, and attractions in and around Cusco and the Sacred Valley. Understanding its different options, how to purchase it, and how to plan your visits is crucial for getting the most out of your trip. Here’s a complete guide:

1. Types of Cusco Tourist Tickets

There are three main types of Tourist Tickets: Full Ticket (Boleto Completo) and Partial Tickets (Boleto Parcial), which are divided into three circuits.

Each ticket grants access to a number of sites depending on the area or interest.

A. Full Ticket (Boleto General Completo)

• Price: Around S/ 130 (~$35 USD) for adults, S/ 70 for students.
• Duration: Valid for 10 days.
• Access to: 16 attractions, including sites in the Sacred Valley and Cusco city.

  The Full Ticket covers:

  • Cusco Sites:
    • Saqsayhuamán
    • Q’enqo
    • Puka Pukara
    • Tambomachay
  • Sacred Valley:
    • Pisac
    • Ollantaytambo
    • Chinchero
    • Moray
  • Museums in Cusco:
    • Museo Histórico Regional
    • Museo de Arte Popular
    • Museo de Sitio Qorikancha
    • Monumento al Inca Pachacutec
  • South Valley:
    • Tipón
    • Pikillacta
    • Andahuaylillas (Sistine Chapel of the Andes)

B. Partial Tickets (Boleto Parcial)

These tickets are designed for those who have limited time or specific interests. They’re valid for only a few days (1-2 days) and include a limited number of attractions. There are three different circuits (circuitos) available:

1. Circuit I (Cusco Archaeological Sites)

• Price: S/ 70 (~$20 USD)
• Duration: 1 day
• Includes: Saqsayhuamán, Q’enqo, Puka Pukara, Tambomachay (all located in or near Cusco).

2. Circuit II (Sacred Valley + Museums in Cusco)

• Price: S/ 70 (~$20 USD)
• Duration: 2 days
• Includes:
  • Ollantaytambo
  • Chinchero
  • Moray
  • Pisac
  • Museo Histórico Regional
  • Museo de Arte Contemporáneo
  • Museo de Sitio Qorikancha
  • Monumento al Inca Pachacutec

3. Circuit III (South Valley and Museums)

• Price: S/ 70 (~$20 USD)
• Duration: 2 days
• Includes:
  • Tipón
  • Pikillacta
  • Andahuaylillas
  • Museo de Arte Popular
  • Museo de Arte Contemporáneo
  • Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo

2. Attractions in Detail

Archaeological Sites

• Saqsayhuamán: A massive Inca ceremonial site with imposing stone walls overlooking Cusco.
• Pisac: An impressive site with terracing and a bustling local market.
• Ollantaytambo: An Inca fortress and living town, serving as a gateway to Machu Picchu.
• Moray: A circular terrace complex used for agricultural experiments.
• Tambomachay: Known as the Inca Baths, this site has fascinating water channels.
• Q’enqo, Puka Pukara: Smaller but intriguing ruins, perfect for quick visits.

Museums

• Museo Histórico Regional: Located in the colonial-era Casa Garcilaso, it provides a detailed look at Cusco’s history.
• Museo de Arte Popular: Exhibits folk art from the region.
• Museo de Sitio Qorikancha: Offers archaeological findings from the Qorikancha temple.
• Museo de Arte Contemporáneo: Showcases modern art from Cusco and beyond.
• Monumento al Inca Pachacutec: A museum and monument dedicated to the most famous Inca ruler.

South Valley

• Tipón: An impressive example of Incan hydraulic engineering.
• Pikillacta: A pre-Inca Wari site known for its large scale.
• Andahuaylillas: Home to the famous Andean Baroque church known as the “Sistine Chapel of the Andes.”

3. How to Purchase the Cusco Tourist Ticket

• Where to Buy: Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of any of the attractions included in the ticket, or at official ticket offices in Cusco.
• Ticket Offices: The most popular ticket offices are located in Av. El Sol (near the main square of Cusco), at the Ministry of Culture office, and at the entrance of key sites like Saqsayhuamán.
• Forms of Payment: Typically, cash is the preferred method, but some locations may accept credit cards.

4. Important Considerations to Cusco Tourist Ticket

• No Online Purchase: The tickets are not available for online purchase, so you’ll need to get them in person.
• Does Not Include Machu Picchu: The Cusco Tourist Ticket does not include Machu Picchu. That ticket must be purchased separately.
• Identification: Bring your passport for student discounts, and to be ready for any identity checks when entering sites.
• No Re-entry: Some sites don’t allow re-entry once you’ve left, so plan your visit accordingly.

5. Itinerary Suggestions

If You Have 1 Day:

• Opt for Circuit I to see Saqsayhuamán and other nearby ruins.
• Or, if you prefer, go for Circuit III for the South Valley (Tipón, Pikillacta, Andahuaylillas).

If You Have 2 Days:

• Choose Circuit II to visit Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, and museums.
• Alternatively, Circuit III allows you to explore the South Valley and museums at a slower pace.

If You Have 3 or More Days:

• The Full Ticket is ideal for those with 3+ days. You can spend one day in Cusco, another in the Sacred Valley, and a third in the South Valley.

6. Tips for Visitors

• Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or late afternoons are quieter, especially at popular sites like Saqsayhuamán.
• Altitude Considerations: Most sites are at high altitudes, so allow yourself time to acclimate before visiting.
• Transportation: For Sacred Valley sites, public buses, colectivos (shared taxis), or private tours are available. Sites around Cusco can be reached by taxi or walking.

This guide should help you make the most out of your visit to Cusco’s amazing archaeological wonders and museums!