Cusco, Machu Picchu, and Sacred Valley of the Incas 5-Day Tour

This five-day journey will take you from the vibrant city of Cusco to iconic destinations such as Machu Picchu, the stunning Sacred Valley of the Incas, Maras, and Moray. Let’s embark on this adventure!

Trip Overview

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco

Your adventure begins with a warm welcome at Cusco airport, where you will be transferred to your hotel to settle in and refresh.

In the afternoon, we'll gather for a guided exploration of what was once the Inca Empire's capital. Our first stops will be the Cathedral, located in the heart of the Plaza de Armas, as well as the Convent of Santo Domingo, built upon the foundations of the Koricancha, showcasing the harmonious blend of Inca and Spanish cultures.

Next, we will venture outside the main square to visit the archaeological sites of Sacsayhuamán, Kenko, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay. Each site provides insight into the Inca civilization, and after this enriching day, we'll return to our hotel for the night.

Day 2: Discovering the Sacred Valley – Maras and Moray – Aguas Calientes

After an early breakfast, we will set off towards the breathtaking Sacred Valley of the Incas nestled in the Andes. You will soon uncover why this region was revered by the ancient civilization.

Our first stop will be in the town of Cruz Pata, where a thrilling quad biking experience awaits. We’ll navigate the rugged trails toward the Moray complex, known for its unique terraced circular formations reminiscent of a Roman amphitheater, a sight that promises to captivate!

Continuing our adventure, we’ll approach the traditional village of Maras to observe the renowned salt mines. These salt pans are among the few locations globally from which pink salt is harvested.

Afterward, we will return to our starting point, leave the quads, and enjoy a picnic at Mountain View, surrounded by the stunning vistas of the Sacred Valley.

Rejuvenated, we’ll board a train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, where you will check in to your hotel upon arrival.

Day 3: Exploring Machu Picchu

No journey to Peru is complete without visiting Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. We’ll depart the hotel around 6 AM to visit this ancient citadel, perched over 2,400 meters (7,874 feet) above sea level and dating back to before the 15th century. The experience will be truly unforgettable!

After our awe-inspiring exploration, we’ll return to Aguas Calientes and take the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by our return to the hotel in Cusco for the evening.

Day 4: Journey to Rainbow Mountain

Our fourth day begins early as we set forth towards one of Peru's most spectacular sights: Rainbow Mountain. We’ll pause in Kusipata for breakfast before heading to the starting point for our hike through this iconic landscape.

As we ascend Rainbow Mountain, located at over 4,600 meters (15,092 feet), you’ll encounter the striking scenery surrounding the sacred Ausangate mountain, a significant peak in Cusco regarded as a sacred site by the Incas.

On this trek, you'll come across charming Andean wildlife such as alpacas, sheep, and vicuñas, while uncovering the mysteries of this site, also known as Vinicunca or the Mountain of Seven Colors. Ample opportunities will arise to capture stunning photographs before we make our way back down.

A satisfying buffet lunch awaits us in Kusipata, followed by our return to Cusco and a restful night at the hotel.

Day 5: Farewell from Cusco

As our five-day adventure comes to a close, we’ll enjoy breakfast together before we take you to the airport for your onward flight, marking the end of this incredible exploration through the remnants of the ancient Inca civilization.

Train Options to Machu Picchu

During your booking process, you’ll have the option to select the type of panoramic train service for your journey to Machu Picchu from Ollantaytambo:

• Expedition Train: Experience the beauty of the Andean landscape through generous windows as this train takes you to Aguas Calientes, recognized as one of the most scenic train routes in the world!
• Vistadome Train: Travel to Machu Picchu in comfortable carriages featuring oversized windows on the walls and ceiling, offering outstanding views throughout the journey.

Accommodation Details

This itinerary includes four nights of lodging at either standard or superior hotels (depending on your selection) with breakfast included. The designated hotels are:

• Cusco: Options include Hotel Plaza Saphi, Muru Hotel, Amerinka, or similar for standard accommodation; Tierra Viva Cusco Centro, Hotel Mamasara Cusco, Hotel Ferre Cusco, or comparable for superior stays.
• Aguas Calientes: Choices consist of Hotel Ferre Machu Picchu, Hotel Ferre Boulevard, Rock Rivers Hotel, Intiwatana el Tambo Hotel, or similar for standard stays; Hotel Ferre Machu Picchu, Inti Punku Machupicchu Hotel & Suites, Tierra Viva Machu Picchu or similar for superior options.

Important Information

In case of cancellations due to strikes or adverse weather conditions, we will provide you with an alternative date. If rescheduling is not feasible, please be advised that a full refund will be granted, except for the entry tickets to Machu Picchu (approximately 200 PEN), which are non-refundable.