There are many archaeological sites in the area directly outside of Cusco. Many of these are well known and receive many visitors. However, many of the lesser-known ruins receive virtually no visitors. The four main ruins, Sacsayhuaman, Qenko, Puca Pucara and Tambo Machay, are easy to reach from the city, and there are different options for visiting these sites. Most agencies in Cusco offer a ?city tour?, which includes visits to these four sites as well as to Qorikancha and the Cathedral in the city. These generally last about four hours, not giving too much time at each site, but include private transport and a guide. A city tour generally costs less than $10, not including entrances.
Another option for visiting the four sites is to hire a horse to ride between each site. This is a lovely ride through beautiful countryside, and generally takes around four hours with time at each site. Horses can be hired from many agencies in Cusco, or they can usually be found at Sacsayhuaman. The cost is around $7 per person, although this does not include entrances or a guide to the sites.
As all the sites are close to Cusco, it is quite easy to walk between them. Follow the road to Pisac, with a few short cuts, and the furthest site is less than two hours walk away. Alternately, catch a bus going to Pisac and get off at the furthest site, Tambo Machay. From there, follow the road back to Cusco, visiting each site as you pass it.
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