Essential Cusco (4 Days / 3 Nights)
4 days / 3 nights
3,700 m.s.n.m
Moderate
8 to 12 people
Este tour es perfecto para quienes desean explorar los lugares más destacados de Cusco y sus alrededores. Experimentarás la magia de los sitios arqueológicos incas, te sumergirás en la vibrante cultura de Cusco y disfrutarás de la impresionante naturaleza andina. Este cómodo y bien organizado viaje cubre los lugares más emblemáticos.
ITINERARY
Reception in Cusco
We’ll pick you up from Cusco airport and transfer you to your hotel. It’s recommended to rest and acclimate to the altitude (3,400 meters) to avoid altitude sickness.
Afternoon City Tour
In the afternoon, we’ll begin a City Tour exploring Cusco and its surroundings. You’ll visit some of the most important archaeological and colonial sites:
- Cusco Cathedral: A jewel of colonial architecture in the Plaza de Armas.
- Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun): The most sacred Inca temple, now part of the Santo Domingo Convent.
- Sacsayhuamán: A monumental fortress with massive stone blocks overlooking the city.
- Qenqo: A ceremonial site with underground galleries.
- Puca Pucara: A small Inca military fortress.
- Tambomachay: A site dedicated to water worship.
Visit to Pisac: Archaeological Site and Market
We’ll start early with a visit to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Our first stop is Pisac, where you’ll explore Inca ruins perched on a mountaintop. Afterwards, we’ll visit the renowned Pisac artisan market, where you can buy textiles, jewelry, and handicrafts.
Lunch in Urubamba
We’ll head to Urubamba, the heart of the Sacred Valley, to enjoy a buffet lunch featuring a variety of Andean dishes.
Visit to Ollantaytambo
In the afternoon, we’ll visit Ollantaytambo, an impressive Inca site that served as a military fortress, religious center, and agricultural hub. From its terraces, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the valley.
Train to Aguas Calientes
In the evening, we’ll board a train to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. You’ll spend the night in Aguas Calientes, preparing for the next day’s visit to the Inca citadel.
Guided Tour of Machu Picchu
We’ll start early, taking the bus from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of Machu Picchu. During a 2-3 hour guided tour, you’ll explore the main highlights of the Inca citadel, including the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana, and the agricultural terraces.
Free Time in Machu Picchu
After the guided tour, you’ll have free time to explore further at your own pace. If desired, you can climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (advance reservation required).
Train Back to Cusco
In the afternoon, we’ll return to Aguas Calientes and take the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by private transport to Cusco, arriving in the evening.
Visit to Moray
After breakfast, we’ll head to Moray, one of the Sacred Valley’s most fascinating sites. You’ll see circular terraces used as an Inca agricultural laboratory to experiment with different microclimates.
Maras Salt Mines
Next, we’ll visit the Maras Salt Mines, a network of over 3,000 salt ponds that have been in use since pre-Inca times. You’ll learn about the artisanal salt extraction process while taking in the stunning views of the terraced salt pans.
Return to Cusco
At the end of the tour, we’ll return to Cusco, where you’ll have free time to relax or explore the city on your own before your departure.
INCLUDES
- Tourist transport throughout the tour.
- Entrance fees to all archaeological sites (City Tour, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Moray, and Maras Salt Mines).
- Professional bilingual guide (Spanish-English).
- Round-trip train tickets between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes.
- Bus tickets to and from Machu Picchu.
- 2 nights of accommodation in Cusco.
- 1 night of accommodation in Aguas Calientes.
- Buffet lunch in Urubamba (Day 2).
- Breakfasts at hotels.
NOT INCLUDED
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional, advance reservation required).
- Lunches and dinners (except for the buffet lunch on Day 2).
- Travel insurance.
- Personal expenses.
- Tips for guides or drivers (optional).
RECOMMENDATIONS
What to Bring:
- Lightweight, comfortable clothing for walks, with jackets or sweaters for cool mornings and evenings.
- Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- Water bottle and light snacks for excursions.
- Passport (required for entry to Machu Picchu and other sites).
- Small backpack for daily essentials.
Recommended Footwear:
- Comfortable walking shoes or lightweight boots, ideal for archaeological sites.
Local Remedies:
- Coca tea: Helpful for preventing altitude sickness, especially at high-altitude sites like Sacsayhuamán and Moray.
- Coca or muña candies: Useful for maintaining energy during walks.
Pharmaceutical Remedies:
- Pain relievers for potential headaches.
- Stomach medications if sensitive to food or altitude changes.
Possible Issues During the Tour:
- Altitude Sickness:
- Common at high-altitude sites like Cusco and Sacsayhuamán. Drinking coca tea and resting can help alleviate symptoms.
- Mild Fatigue:
- While the walks are moderate, you’ll visit multiple sites each day, so it’s essential to pace yourself and rest as needed.
FREQUENT QUESTIONS
Yes, spots are limited, and it’s recommended to book at least 1-2 months in advance.
Spending at least one day in Cusco to acclimate is recommended before starting the tour.
Yes, the tour is accessible for all ages, with short and moderate walks.
Accommodation is in comfortable tourist-class hotels in Cusco and Aguas Calientes. Upgrades to higher categories are available upon request.
Yes, the itinerary can be adjusted based on your preferences. Consult with the tour operator for modifications.
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