Cusco and Machu Picchu Tour – 10 Days and 9 Nights
10 days / 9 nights
5,200 m.s.n.m
Difficult
8 to 12 people
Este itinerario de 10 días está diseñado para brindarte una experiencia integral de la antigua capital del Imperio Inca. Descubre la rica cultura de Cusco, sus impresionantes paisajes naturales y la espiritualidad de Machu Picchu. Perfecto para viajeros que buscan un viaje inmersivo en la historia y la naturaleza de Perú.
ITINERARY
Airport reception and hotel transfer:
Upon arrival at Cusco airport, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel. The first day is free to rest and acclimatize to the altitude (3,400 meters above sea level).
Optional activity:
A short stroll around the Plaza de Armas to visit Cusco Cathedral and the Church of the Society of Jesus.
Tour of archaeological sites and monuments:
Start with the Temple of the Sun (Qoricancha), followed by visits to Sacsayhuamán, Q’enqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay, sites rich in history and Inca architecture.
Afternoon at leisure:
Explore San Pedro Market or visit museums in Cusco’s city center.
Sacred Valley exploration:
Visit Pisac’s artisan market and archaeological site, then continue to Ollantaytambo to discover its impressive Inca fortress and terraces.
Overnight in Ollantaytambo:
Spend the night in Ollantaytambo in preparation for the next day.
Excursion to Moray and Maras Salt Mines:
Discover Moray’s circular agricultural terraces and the Maras Salt Mines, a spectacular network of salt pools on the mountainside.
Return to Cusco:
Arrive back in Cusco in the evening.
Free day or optional activities:
Rest or choose from optional adventure activities such as rafting on the Urubamba River or quad biking through Maras and Moray.
Train ride to Aguas Calientes:
Depart early from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes by train, enjoying stunning views of the Sacred Valley and the river.
Free afternoon in Aguas Calientes:
Explore the town or relax in the local hot springs.
Exploration of Machu Picchu:
Take an early bus to the citadel of Machu Picchu. A guided tour will explore its temples, terraces, and sacred areas, followed by free time to explore on your own.
Return to Cusco:
Travel back to Ollantaytambo by train and then to Cusco by private transport.
Excursion to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca):
Trek to the famous Rainbow Mountain, a challenging hike rewarded with breathtaking views of this multicolored natural wonder.
Return to Cusco:
Arrive in Cusco in the afternoon to rest.
Excursion to Humantay Lake:
Travel to Soraypampa and hike to the turquoise Humantay Lake, surrounded by towering mountains—a perfect spot to connect with nature.
Return to Cusco:
Spend your final night in the city.
Transfer to Cusco airport:
You will be transferred from your hotel to the airport for your flight home. End of the tour.
INCLUDES
- Transportation throughout the tour (transfers, trains, and buses).
- Entrance tickets to all mentioned sites (Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, Rainbow Mountain, etc.).
- Professional bilingual guide (Spanish and English).
- Accommodation in hotels for 9 nights.
- Daily breakfasts and lunches on excursion days.
- Roundtrip train tickets to Machu Picchu.
NOT INCLUDED
- International or domestic flights to Cusco.
- Tips for guides, porters, or drivers (optional).
- Dinners and some free lunches.
- Travel insurance (recommended).
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, extra snacks).
RECOMMENDATIONS
What to bring:
- Layered clothing (light for daytime and warm for chilly nights).
- Waterproof jacket and gear for cold weather.
- Comfortable and durable trekking shoes.
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.
- Reusable water bottle and energy snacks for hikes.
Acclimatization:
- Spend at least two days in Cusco before attempting high-altitude hikes.
- Stay hydrated and get enough rest.
Local and pharmaceutical remedies:
- Coca tea and muña candies for altitude sickness.
- Acetazolamide (Diamox) to prevent altitude sickness (consult a doctor).
- Pain relievers for headaches or muscle fatigue.
FREQUENT QUESTIONS
Yes, some activities, such as Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lake, require good physical fitness.
It’s recommended to arrive at least two days before the tour to adjust to the altitude.
Yes, some activities can be tailored to your preferences and needs.
The tour includes daily breakfasts and lunches during excursions. Dinners are free for you to explore local cuisine.
Cusco’s weather can be unpredictable, but the activities are planned to minimize impact. The dry season (April to October) is the best time for this tour.
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