Audio Guide of Qorikancha Temple of the Sun

Qorikancha, also known as the Temple of the Sun, generally opens Monday to Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM and on Sundays from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. It is located in central Cusco, so you can easily get there on foot from the Plaza de Armas or by taxi. I recommend checking the updated opening hours before your visit.

Admission to Qorikancha costs approximately 15 Peruvian soles for adults. Currently, tickets are purchased directly at the site’s ticket office. It is not included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket, so you must buy this admission separately.

For a complete experience and to appreciate all the details of Qorikancha and the Convent of Santo Domingo, I recommend allowing at least 1.5 to 2 hours. This will let you explore the different sections, the gardens, and take in the site’s rich history without rushing.

Qorikancha was the most sacred and sumptuous temple of the Inca Empire, dedicated mainly to the Sun god. Its walls were covered in gold and silver. After the Spanish conquest, the Convent of Santo Domingo was built on its foundations, making it a fascinating testimony to the cultural and religious layering between the Inca and Spanish civilizations.

To avoid the biggest crowds, I suggest visiting Qorikancha early in the morning, just after opening, or later in the afternoon. As for the time of year, the dry season (from May to October) offers more pleasant weather, but it also attracts more tourists. If you are looking for fewer people, consider the low season (from November to April), though there is a possibility of rain.

Qorikancha presents significant challenges for people with reduced mobility. There are stairs, and some corridors may be narrow or uneven. While some areas of the courtyard and ground floor can be explored, full access to all sections may be limited. It is advisable to contact the site administration directly for more accurate accessibility information. The Convent’s telephone number is +51 84 222535.

Absolutely. Qorikancha is very centrally located, making it an ideal starting point for exploring Cusco. Within a short distance, you can walk to the Plaza de Armas, visit Cusco Cathedral, the Church of the Society of Jesus, or stroll through the picturesque San Blas neighborhood with its artisan workshops. The entire historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site worth exploring.

I recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes, bringing a bottle of water, and using sunscreen if you visit during the day. Consider hiring a local guide at the entrance; their knowledge will greatly enrich your understanding of the history. Also, remember that this is a religious site, so dress respectfully and avoid using flash indoors. Be prepared to marvel at the astonishing Inca engineering that still endures.