Cusco, Peru
Cusco, Peru is a vibrant city full of history, culture, and stunning architecture. From exploring the ancient Inca ruins of Machu Picchu to enjoying the local cuisine and traditional festivals, Cusco has something to offer for every traveler.
Trip to Cusco, Peru
Day 1: Arrival and City Tour
Upon arrival at Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ), you will be met by one of our representatives and transported to your hotel. Take a moment to relax and settle in before heading out for a city tour. Begin at the famous Plaza de Armas where the impressive Cusco Cathedral stands. Next, visit the historic Qoricancha, also known as the Temple of the Sun, which was one of the most important religious centers of the Inca Empire. End the day with a visit to Sacsayhuamán, a fortress-like complex made of massive stone blocks that will leave you in awe.
Day 2: Machu Picchu Famous Inca Sanctuary
Today’s highlight is visiting the iconic Machu Picchu archaeological site. Get an early start, and take the train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, then take a short bus ride up the mountain to the site. Your fully guided tour will include a visit to the Templo Principal, Intiwatana, the Sacred Plaza, the Sun Temple, and the room of the Three Windows. In the afternoon, you will head back to Aguas Calientes to have dinner and spend the night.
Day 3: Machu Picchu Free Day
You have a free day in Aguas Calientes, the town where Machu Picchu is located. Take time to rest or explore the lovely town at your own pace. There are hot springs in Aguas Calientes, so you could soak in the natural springs for great relaxation. If you want to continue exploring spots nearby, you can take on some of the trails and visit other historical sites near Machu Picchu, such as Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain.
Day 4: Moray, Maras, and Salineras
Today, we’ll head out to explore Moray, Maras, and Salineras. These places offer unique attractions, including the agricultural amphitheater of Moray where the Incas used to experiment with crops from different altitude regions. Next, explore the salt mines of Maras where large pools are fed by a salty hot water spring that has been used since pre-Incan times for salt extraction. End the day with a visit to the beautiful colonial town of Maras.
Day 5: Pisac Market and Ruins
This morning, visit the Pisac market which is composed of hundreds of market stalls, selling everything from pottery to weavings and jewelry. Afterward, enjoy a guided tour of the Pisac ruins; the site offers a great insight into pre-Columbian life in the area and also offers excellent views of the valley. End the day by taking time to relax on your own or do some shopping in Cusco city.
Day 6: Rainbow Mountain Hike
Hiking to the Rainbow Mountain or Vinicunca is an unforgettable experience. You will be picked up from your hotel early in the morning and then head to the starting point of the trek. The scenic trek takes you through several traditional Native Andean Villages and features impressive landscapes full of lamas and alpacas. The hike will take around 6 or 7 hours, but the experience of seeing Rainbow Mountain is worth every minute.
Day 7: Last Day in Cusco
Today is the last day of your visit to Cusco. Take it easy and relax, or if you want to do some additional shopping, we suggest you visit Centro Artesanal Cusco, located along Avenida Sol. Alternatively, you can explore the San Pedro Market which is full of local merchants selling food, jewelry, textiles, and other handicrafts. Finally, we will transport you to the airport to return home.
This itinerary should give you an excellent trip to Cusco, Peru that includes the city, multiple cultural landmarks and attractions, and outdoor excursions that will allow you to have the perfect experience. If you have any further questions or booking requests, feel free to contact us anytime.
