the Cusco Tourist Ticket is the official pass handled by COSITUC (Comité de Servicios Integrados Turístico Culturales del Cusco). Basically, it lets you get into around 16 different places (when you buy the Full Ticket) in the city of Cusco and also in the Sacred Valley and Southern Valley. If you’re planning your trip with the best Peru tour Operator, this guide will help you understand how to choose the right ticket, where to buy it, and how to maximize your experience.
Why buy the Cusco Tourist Ticket?
1. Save money on entrance fees
Instead of purchasing individual tickets for each attraction, the Cusco Tourist Ticket provides access to multiple sites at a reduced cost.
2. Access to top attractions
With a single ticket, you can visit incredible places like Sacsayhuamán, Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Moray, and more.
3. Flexible options
There are different ticket types depending on your itinerary, so you can choose the one that best fits your travel plans, whether you’re focusing on the Sacred Valley or preparing for a trek along the Short Inca Trail 2 Days.
4. Supports local tourism
Purchasing this ticket helps maintain and preserve Cusco’s historical and cultural heritage.
The Highlights of the Cusco Tourist Ticket
- It covers entrance fees for multiple sites, which is really convenient ‘cause otherwise you’d have to pay separate tickets at each place, and that’s, like, super annoying.
- It also helps you simplify the whole payment thing so you don’t need to be buying tickets every single time you go somewhere new.
- Oh, but just so you know, it does NOT include Machu Picchu, nor some private places like Qoricancha (Santo Domingo Church), so don’t get confused and assume you can waltz in there with this ticket.
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Types of Cusco Tourist Tickets
There are basically two main types: the Full Ticket and what they call Partial Tickets. Which one you pick should kinda depend on, like, how long you’re staying in Cusco and which sites you actually wanna see. I mean, if you only have a couple of days, maybe you don’t want the Full Ticket, but if you’re there for a while, it might be worth it. Just pick whatever fits your plans best, you know?
A. Full Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico General)
Validity: 10 calendar days from the first day of use.
Sites Included (16 total):
- Sacsayhuamán: This place is out of this world thanks to its massive Inca fortress and crazy puzzle style limestone walls The zigzag ramparts and the sweet view of the Cusco valley are a total must if you want to see real Inca engineering
- Q’enqo (Kenko): A small site thatll make you say holy moly thanks to its carved rock formations underground chambers and mysterious vibes People figure it was used for religious rituals or offerings
- Puka Pukara: A military outpost or checkpoint with a mind-blowing location It offers scenic views of valleys and mountains plus a glimpse of how the Incas set up defense
- Tambomachay: Sometimes called the Inca Baths it has these finely crafted canals and water fountains that make for a chill spot People believe it was for water worship or some kind of purification
- Pisac: A top-notch town in the Sacred Valley with hillside terraces and a super lively handicraft market The archaeological site up above includes temples terraces and areas for ceremonies
- Ollantaytambo: An Inca fortress and living town that is totally rad Massive terraces steep steps and a layout that still shows off original Inca planning Its a window into ancient heritage and everyday life
- Chinchero: Known for its colonial church built on Inca foundations plus weaving traditions that are a no-brainer to explore Locals use natural dyes and weaving techniques passed down through generations
- Moray: A legit set of concentric terraces that may have worked like an agricultural lab Each level has its own microclimate letting the Incas figure out crop growth in different temps
- Tipón: Youll find epic water channels and landscaped terraces here showing off advanced hydraulic engineering by the Incas The water still runs today which is super impressive
- Pikillacta: If you visit this place from the Wari culture you might be blown away by the giant walls multi-level layouts and how organized everything was long before the Incas
- Museo de Sitio del Qoricancha: A small museum that reveals insane details of Qoricancha once one of the most important temples in the Inca Empire Expect pottery textiles and more
- Museo Histórico Regional: Set in a colonial mansion once owned by Inca Garcilaso de la Vega its filled with killer documents artwork and personal belongings showing Cuscos history from pre-Inca to colonial times
- Museo de Arte Popular: This museum keeps straight up Cusqueñan and Andean folk art alive with colorful masks sculptures textiles and day-to-day objects that capture local creativity
- Monumento al Inca Pachacútec: A towering statue honoring the ninth Inca ruler who super psyched expanded the empire You can climb an interior tower for exhibits and a cool city view
- Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo: A cultural place that will leave you over the moon with live performances of traditional dances music and costumes giving you a full dose of Cuscos folklore
- Centro de Arte Nativo de Chinchero: Sometimes included with the Chinchero complex this space highlights weaving dance and music Artisans show cool beans techniques using natural dyes and handlooms
This option pretty much blows your mind if you have enough time to visit Cuscos nearby archaeological sites and cultural spots at a chill pace Its no biggie to fit them in if youre beyond stoked to explore every corner of this amazing land
B. Partial Tourist Tickets (Boleto Turístico Parcial)
If you’re in a rush or only want to see certain hot spots this system is a total “no brainer” Each of the three Partial Tickets covers a specific circuit around Cusco Prices and validities vary a bit but all are “definitely worth every penny” if you plan wisely
Circuit I Archaeological Sites near Cusco
Validity 1 day
Sites Included
- Sacsayhuamán This massive fortress has walls fitted with “holy smokes” precision and an unbeatable view of the city center that’ll “knock your socks off”
- Q’enqo (Kenko) It’s a smaller spot but “pretty darn cool” with its labyrinth-like passages and carved channels thought to be used for spiritual rites
- Puka Pukara Serving as a Red Fort or checkpoint it sits on a high ground offering scenic valley views that will “blow your mind”
- Tambomachay Dubbed the Inca Baths these finely built water channels reveal how the Incas worshipped water or relaxed in style talk about “the real deal”
Circuit II South Valley and Museums
Validity 2 days
Sites Included
- Tipón Famous for its sophisticated waterworks and landscaped terraces exploring this place is “a piece of cake” since the original channels still flow
- Pikillacta A pre-Inca site from the Wari culture with organized layouts that show off “off the charts” engineering even before the Incas took over
- Museo de Sitio del Qoricancha A small museum displaying artifacts from Qoricancha once the main temple of the Inca Empire it’s “definitely worth every penny”
- Museo Histórico Regional Housed in an old colonial mansion once owned by Inca Garcilaso de la Vega it traces the region’s past from pre-Inca times to the colonial era
- Museo de Arte Popular Full of colorful masks sculptures and textiles this museum is “pretty darn cool” for anyone craving a deep dive into local creativity
- Monumento al Inca Pachacútec A towering tribute to the ninth Inca ruler climb inside for exhibits about his reign and a sweet panoramic view
- Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo Catch live music and dance shows here that celebrate Cusco’s folkloric traditions “no biggie” if you’re looking for an evening of fun
Circuit III Sacred Valley
Validity 2 days
Sites Included
- Pisac Known for hillside Inca terraces and a bustling handicraft market this charming town will “knock your socks off” with its scenic setting
- Ollantaytambo An Inca fortress and living town featuring massive terraces and steep steps stroll its original street layout and soak in the ancient vibe
- Chinchero Famous for its colonial church built on Inca foundations plus age-old weaving techniques that “blow your mind” it’s a true cultural gem
- Moray These circular terraces might have been an agricultural lab each level having its own microclimate talk about “off the charts” innovation
- Pick a Partial Ticket if you’re short on time or only interested in specific sites and you’ll be “good to go” without missing out on Cusco’s top highlights
Full Ticket (Boleto Turístico General)
- Adult: ~S/. 130 (around USD $35)
- Student (with valid ID): ~S/. 70 (around USD $19)
Partial Tickets (Boleto Turístico Parcial)
- Adult: ~S/. 70 (around USD $19)
- Student (with valid ID): ~S/. 40 (around USD $11)
Note:
- The USD conversions are approximations based on a commonly referenced exchange rate (around 3.7–3.8 soles per dollar, but this rate can change).
- You must carry a valid student ID (ISIC or official university ID, typically for travelers under 25) to qualify for the student discount.
- The ticket does not include entrance to Machu Picchu, Qoricancha, or Maras Salt Mines. They require separate entrance fees.
- You must present a valid student ID (commonly ISIC) or original university card to qualify for student discounts.
- Some partial tickets are only valid for one day, while others for two days, so plan accordingly.
Where to Buy the Cusco Tourist Ticket
This info is super handy if you’re looking to get your pass without any hassles There are several official places to purchase:
- COSITUC Office: Calle Maruri 340 near Cusco’s Plaza de Armas
- Entrance Gates to Sites: Sacsayhuamán Pisac Ollantaytambo Chinchero and other main spots often have booths where snapping up a Partial or Full Ticket is a piece of cake
- Authorized Travel Agencies: If booking a tour with Go Treks Peru, we can assist you in purchasing the right ticket for your Inca Trail 4 Days Tour or any other itinerary.
When you buy the ticket you’ll get a physical pass with detachable sections for each site Always keep it safe—trust me you don’t wanna skip it because if you lose it you can’t re-enter without buying a new one Still no biggie if you follow the right steps and keep your ticket in a secure spot.
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How to Use the Cusco Tourist Ticket
At each site or museum entrance, an official will detach or punch the corresponding section of your ticket. Heads up: make sure you don’t try to reuse it! Bring your passport or ID for verification if you have a student discount. No ifs, ands, or buts—this is mandatory.
Once a section is detached, you cannot reuse it. The ticket is only valid for the consecutive days mentioned (e.g., 10 days for the full ticket, 1-2 days for partial tickets). Time flies, so plan accordingly!
Sites Not Included in the Ticket
- Machu Picchu: Requires its own separate entrance ticket, available online or through authorized agencies.
- Qoricancha (Santo Domingo Church): The main church & convent complex is privately administered by the Catholic Church; you must purchase its entrance ticket separately.
- Maras Salt Mines (Salineras de Maras): Privately administered; separate entrance fee. Bottom line: you’ll need to budget for these extras.
Tips for Maximizing Your Ticket
Plan Your Route
Group sites based on location (e.g., Sacsayhuamán, Q’enqo, Tambomachay, and Puka Pukara on the same day if you have the Partial Ticket 1). No sweat—just map it out and go with the flow!
For the Full Ticket, consider grouping Sacred Valley sites (Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, Moray) to avoid backtracking. Trust me, planning like this is a piece of cake.
Check Operating Hours
In Cusco the archaeological sites open around 7:00 am and close by 6:00 pm. Museums in Cusco may have shorter hours, often closing for lunch or earlier in the evening. Heads up: double-check the times so you don’t miss a thing.
Carry Identification
If you purchased a student ticket, be sure to carry your student ID or other official document to avoid any issues. For real, don’t leave home without it!
Stay Hydrated in Cusco Tours & Acclimatize
Cusco is at high altitude (about 3,400 meters / 11,200 feet). Take it slow on the first day, drink plenty of water, and consider coca tea to help with altitude adjustment before hitting the sites.
Mind the Validity
Your ticket’s expiry is based on consecutive calendar days (not 24-hour blocks). Make sure you understand the start and end dates. Bottom line: keep your schedule tight and avoid any mix-ups.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Cusco Tourist Ticket
Can I upgrade from a Partial Ticket to the Full Ticket?
Unfortunately, no. Once you buy a Partial Ticket, you can’t just pay a little extra to upgrade. If you ask me, it’s best to decide upfront which ticket fits your plans because if your mind changes later, you’ll have to purchase the Full Ticket separately. Cut to the chase and plan ahead—this way, everything flows smoother.
Are there child discounts?
Yes, in some cases. Depending on the local policy at each site, children under a certain age might be able to enter for free or at a reduced rate. No kidding, always bring your child’s passport for age verification; for real, this little step saves you from a heap of trouble later on.
What if I lose my ticket?
If you happen to lose your ticket, trust me, you’ll need to buy a new one. Lost tickets can’t be replaced or reissued, so keep your eyes peeled and hold onto it tight.
Can I share my ticket with someone else?
No, the ticket is strictly personal and non-transferable. Your name is usually registered on it, and some entrances will check your ID, so all in all, it’s meant for you only.
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Why the Cusco Tourist Ticket is a Must-Have for Your Trip
The Boleto Turístico del Cusco is a fantastic way to dive into the rich Inca and colonial history of the region. Just so you know, by taking a little time to plan and choosing the ticket that best matches your travel plans, you’ll get the most bang for your buck and won’t miss any of the must-see sites or cultural experiences that make Cusco such a top destination. Enjoy your adventure and make every moment count!
