CUSCO MACHU PICCHU & MARAS MORAY: 5 DAYS OF ANCESTRAL ADVENTURE

per person

CUSCO MACHU PICCHU & MARAS MORAY: 5 DAYS OF ANCESTRAL ADVENTURE Discover the heart of the Inca Empire on a complete tour of Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Maras Moray. Embark on an unforgettable 5-day tour of Cusco, Machu Picchu, Maras Moray, to the heart of ancient Peru, where history comes alive in every corner. Cusco, once the imperial capital, will amaze you with its unique architectural fusion: elegant Spanish colonial buildings erected on magnificent Inca foundations. Machu Picchu, South America’s archaeological treasure…

CUSCO MACHU PICCHU & MARAS MORAY: 5 DAYS OF ANCESTRAL ADVENTURE

Discover the heart of the Inca Empire on a complete tour of Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Maras Moray.

Embark on an unforgettable 5-day tour of Cusco, Machu Picchu, Maras Moray, to the heart of ancient Peru, where history comes alive in every corner. Cusco, once the imperial capital, will amaze you with its unique architectural fusion: elegant Spanish colonial buildings erected on magnificent Inca foundations.

Machu Picchu, South America’s archaeological treasure and world wonder, awaits you between majestic mountains. This citadel reveals the ingenuity of the ancient Peruvians and perfect adaptation to the natural environment.

During 5 days and 4 nights you will explore:

*Cusco with its historic squares and cobbled streets.

*The mystical Sacred Valley of the Incas.

*The extraordinary citadel of Machu Picchu.

*Moray with its circular terraces and the ancestral salt mines of Maras.

COMPLETE ITINERARY OF YOUR ADVENTURE IN CUSCO AND MACHU PICCHU

DAY 1: CUSCO – COMBINED CITY TOUR

Reception at the Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport.

Welcome to the Imperial City of Cusco, a historical jewel located at 3,350 meters above sea level.

Our service starts with your personalized reception at the airport and comfortable transfer to your hotel of your choice.

We offer you free time during the morning for a proper acclimatization to the altitude, essential to fully enjoy your experience in the ancient Inca capital.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Depending on your arrival time, we may be able to book the City Tour from 1pm or reschedule it for the last day of your stay.

CUSCO CITY TOUR: EXPLORING ANCIENT THE CAPITAL OF THE INCA EMPIRE

Tour of the Imperial City and nearby archaeological sites (approximate duration: 5 hours).

We’ll start our tour at 1pm, picking you up from your hotel.

Our City Tour includes a visit to the Qoricancha or Temple of the Sun, considered the Royal House of the Sun in Cusco, the spiritual centre where the Incas worshipped their main deity with walls covered in solid gold.

The excursion extends to the four most important ruins on the outskirts of the city:

* Sacsayhuamán: Imposing fortress located 5 km from the historic centre, whose huge, perfectly assembled stones have baffled archaeologists for centuries.

*Qenqo: Sacred ceremonial amphitheatre and worship centre for the god Puma, where rituals and possible human sacrifices took place.

*Pucapucara: The ‘Red Fortress’, so called because of the intense reddish colour its rocks acquire in the sunset light.

*Tambomachay: Also known as the ‘Baths of the Incas’, a temple dedicated to the cult of water with aqueducts and impressive ceremonial fountains that have been perfectly preserved.

The tour ends at approximately 6pm, when we’ll return to your hotel so you can enjoy the rest of the afternoon or evening in the magical Imperial City.

This itinerary perfectly combines culture, history and archaeology in a full day of unforgettable experiences in the heart of the ancient Inca Empire.

Overnight in Cusco.

DAY 2: MARAS AND MORAY TOUR – ARCHAEOLOGICAL EXPERIENCE IN THE SACRED VALLEY.

Breakfast at the hotel.

Our guide will pick you up between 6:30 and 6:45 a.m. to start this fascinating adventure into the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Our first stop will be MARAS, a picturesque colonial village located west of Cusco at 3,300 meters above sea level. From this privileged natural viewpoint, we will be able to contemplate spectacular views of the Cordillera de Urubamba with its majestic snow-capped peaks & La Verónica (5,000 m.a.s.l.) and Chikón (5,530 m.a.s.l.).

We will admire its peculiar church built in adobe, a perfect example of the local religious architecture, which shelters valuable paintings of the renowned Cusqueña School.

We will continue our journey to MORAY, located 7 km southwest of Maras. This extraordinary archaeological complex, unique in the whole Andean region, consists of gigantic natural depressions ingeniously transformed into circular agricultural terraces with sophisticated irrigation systems.

In the afternoon, at approximately 2:00 p.m, we will return to the city of Cusco.

The rest of the afternoon will be left free for you to explore the ancient Inca capital at your own, visit local markets, tour museums or simply relax in one of the cozy plazas or cafes in the historic center.

Night in Cusco.

DAY 3: SACRED VALLEY OF THE INCAS – CONNECTION TO AGUAS CALIENTES (PISAQ, OLLANTAYTAMBO)

Breakfast at the hotel

Immerse yourself in a fascinating journey through the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Our tour begins with pickup from your hotel in Cusco at 7:45 a.m., beginning a scenic transfer through stunning Andean landscapes until we reach our first destination.

We will visit the Pisaq Archaeological Complex, located at 2,950 meters above sea level, an Inca ceremonial and astronomical center with perfectly preserved agricultural terraces.

We will explore its main areas: temples, observatories, and residential areas that offer privileged views of the Sacred Valley.

Afterwards, we will have time to explore the famous Pisaq Artisan Market, internationally renowned for its rich textile tradition, traditional ceramics, and fine silverware.

At noon, we will enjoy a pleasant traditional buffet lunch in a select restaurant featuring Cusco cuisine, where you can sample ancestral ingredients grown in the Sacred Valley itself.

In the afternoon, we will continue our tour to Ollantaytambo, located at 2,792 meters above sea level, the only Inca urban center still inhabited today. We will explore its imposing fortress with monumental staircases and astronomical temples, walk its pre-Hispanic cobblestone streets that maintain their original layout, and observe the sophisticated Inca hydraulic systems still in operation.

From vantage points, we will take in the impressive views of the agricultural warehouses (qolqas) and the majestic Temple of the Sun.

At the end of our visit to the Sacred Valley (Ollantaytambo), we will board the train at 4:22 p.m. to Aguas Calientes (approximately 1 hour 45 minutes), enjoying a beautiful Andean journey to the entrance to Machu Picchu.

Overnight in Aguas Calientes.

DAY 4: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

Breakfast at the hotel

After breakfast at your hotel in Aguas Calientes, you will begin an extraordinary adventure to one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.

At the agreed-upon time, we will head to the Aguas Calientes bus station, where we will board the transport that will take us along the zigzagging path to the main entrance of the majestic Citadel of Machu Picchu.

Upon entering this archaeological treasure, we will enjoy a guided tour of the main buildings and sectors, including El Mirador, the Temple of the Three Windows, the Intihuatana, the Main Plaza, and other important Inca structures. We will learn about the history, architecture, and cultural significance of this impressive World Heritage site.

At the end of the tour, we will depart by bus to the village or Aguas Calientes, where you will have free time for lunch or some time to relax. In the afternoon, we will board the train to the Ollantaytambo station, and at the scheduled time, then we will transfer you to the city of Cusco.

Optional: After visiting Machu Picchu, you can visit Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain for an additional cost of $65.00 each.

Overnight in Cusco.

DAY 5: CUSCO – DEPARTURE TRANSFER

At the scheduled time, transfer to the airport or bus terminal.

AREQUIPA, COLCA CANYON & LAKE TITICACA TOUR: 5-DAY ADVENTURE IN SOUTHERN PERUVIAN

Discover the wonders of southern Peru on a comprehensive tour of Arequipa, the impressive Colca Canyon, and the mystical Lake Titicaca.

Are you looking for a 5-day tour of Arequipa and Puno that combines nature, culture, and adventure?

Our tour package allows you to explore the impressive White City of Arequipa, admire the majestic flight of condors in the Colca Canyon, and sail the calm waters of the mythical Lake Titicaca, visiting its fascinating floating islands. A complete experience in southern Peru that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

DETAILED ITINERARY: 5-DAY AREQUIPA AND PUNO TOUR

DAY 1: WELCOME TO AREQUIPA – CITY TOUR OF THE WHITE CITY

Reception and exploration of the colonial beauty of Arequipa

We begin our adventure with a welcome at the Arequipa airport and a comfortable transfer to the hotel. In the afternoon, you will immerse yourself in the history and culture of the “White City” with a fascinating city tour that includes:

*Carmen Alto Viewpoint: An ideal vantage point for contemplating the beautiful Chilina Valley and the surrounding volcanoes.

*Yanahuara Viewpoint: Famous for its sillar arches and spectacular views of the city with the Misti Mountains in the background.

*Santa Catalina Monastery: A colonial architectural gem of more than 20,000 m² with narrow streets, plazas, and gardens that will transport you back 400 years.

*Arequipa’s Plaza de Armas: One of the most beautiful in Peru, surrounded by impressive portals and the majestic Cathedral.

Church and Cloisters of the Society of Jesus: Admire the extraordinary Dome of San Ignacio and the details of its mestizo Baroque architecture.

At the end of the tour, return to the hotel to rest.

*** Overnight in Arequipa.

DAY 2: AREQUIPA – COLCA CANYON TRIP

Travel through impressive high Andean landscapes toward the majestic Colca Canyon

After breakfast, we will begin our journey to the Colca Valley and Canyon. We will depart early, traveling through the Yura district and skirting the foothills of the Chachani volcano.

During the journey, we will pass through:

*Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve: Where you can observe vicuñas in their natural habitat.

*Pampa Cañahuas: Extensive high Andean plains with wildlife.

*Vizcachani and Pampas de Toccra: Habitat for numerous species of migratory and local birds.

*Patapampa (4,800 m.a.s.l.): Known as the “Volcano Viewpoint,” from where you can see the Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu volcanoes that surround Arequipa.

We will descend to the picturesque town of Chivay to enjoy a lunch with local ingredients. During the free afternoon, we recommend visiting the La Calera hot springs, perfect for relaxing in their medicinal waters (admission not included).

***Accommodation in Colca.

DAY 3: CRUZ DEL CONDOR – TRIP TO PUNO

Natural spectacle of the flight of the condor and transfer to the shores of Lake Titicaca

Very early after breakfast, we will head to the Cruz del Condor, the most famous viewpoint of the Colca Canyon, located 41 km from Chivay. Here, we will witness one of the most impressive natural spectacles: the majestic flight of the Andean condors over the second deepest canyon in the world (4,160 meters).

We will continue our route visiting charming traditional villages in the valley:

*Pinchollo: With its typical architecture and local crafts.

*Maca: Known for its beautiful colonial church.

*Achoma: Traditional village with panoramic views of the valley.

*Yanque: Famous for its embroidery and traditional dances.

We will make stops at the Antahuilque and Choquetico viewpoints, where we will see colcas (Inca storehouses), hanging tombs, and ancient lithomodels.

We will return to Chivay to enjoy lunch before beginning our journey to Puno, the folklore capital of Peru. During this approximately 6-hour journey, we will admire diverse Andean landscapes:

*Stone forests

*Lagoons with a variety of high Andean birds.

*Picturesque towns such as Imata and Santa Lucía.

*The commercial city of Juliaca.

We will arrive in Puno at approximately 7:30 p.m., where our representative will be waiting to comfortably transfer you to your hotel.

*** Accommodation in Puno.

DAY 4: LAKE TITICACA EXCURSION – UROS AND TAQUILE ISLANDS

Sailing on the highest navigable lake in the world and encountering ancient cultures After breakfast, we will head to the port to begin our voyage on the mythical Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world (3,810 m.a.s.l.).

Our first stop will be the amazing Uros Floating Islands, located a 30-minute boat ride away and part of the Titicaca National Reserve.

You will meet the inhabitants of this ancient culture who maintain their ancestral traditions, living on islands built with reeds and dedicating themselves mainly to artisanal carachi fishing, hunting wild birds, and collecting eggs.

After approximately 40 minutes, we will continue our journey to the natural island of Taquile, world-famous for its textiles recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The people of Taquile preserve Inca traditions and laws, where, interestingly, men are dedicated to weaving from the age of eight, while women specialize in thread making.

In Taquile, we will enjoy a typical lunch with local products.

Afterwards, you will have two free hours to:

*Visit the artisan center

*Purchase unique handmade textiles

*Capture panoramic photographs of the lake and islands

*Learn more about local customs

In the afternoon, we will sail back to Puno and be transferred to your hotel.

*** Overnight in Puno

DAY 5: PUNO – DEPARTURE TRANSFER

End of our services

Breakfast at the hotel (subject to your departure time). At the scheduled time, we will transfer you to the airport or bus terminal to continue to your next destination.

Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain: The Ultimate 6-Day Cusco Adventure

Discover the ancient treasures of the Inca Empire in a complete experience.

Do you dream of exploring the archaeological wonders of Machu Picchu, contemplating the turquoise waters of Humantay Lagoon, and admiring the vibrant colors of Vinicunca in a single trip?

Our 6-day Cusco itinerary perfectly combines history, nature, and adventure to offer you a transformative experience in the heart of the Andes.

What you will experience on this tour of Cusco and Machu Picchu:

*Explore the most important archaeological remains of Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire

*Discover the majesty of Machu Picchu, one of the New 7 Wonders of the World

*Admire the crystal-clear waters of the Humantay Lagoon surrounded by impressive snow-capped mountains

*Be amazed by the natural colors of Vinicunca, the famous Rainbow Mountain

*Explore the mystical Sacred Valley of the Incas and its traditional villages

Detailed Itinerary: Machu Picchu, Humantay Lagoon, and Rainbow Mountain

DAY 1: CITY TOUR IN CUSCO – DISCOVERING THE IMPERIAL CAPITAL

Your adventure begins in Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire and current cultural center of Andean Peru. Our representative will pick you up from your hotel around 1:00 PM to begin a fascinating tour of the most emblematic sites:

*Cusco Cathedral: Admire this imposing colonial building that houses more than 300 paintings from the famous Cusco School and magnificent works carved in wood and silver.

*Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun): Visit the most important religious center of the Inca Empire, a stunning example of the fusion of Inca and Spanish architecture.

*Sacsayhuamán: Explore this monumental ceremonial fortress with its three 390-meter platforms built with enormous stone blocks perfectly assembled.

*Qenqo, Pucapucara, and Tambomachay: Discover these Inca ceremonial and military centers that complement the archaeological tour around Cusco.

Total tour time: approximately 4 hours.

***Accommodation in Cusco.

DAY 2: SACRED VALLEY OF THE INCAS AND TRANSFER TO AGUAS CALIENTES

After breakfast, we will pick you up at 8:30 am to embark on a journey through the

mythical Sacred Valley of the Incas, considered one of the most impressive cultural landscapes in South America:

*Pisaq: We will visit both the picturesque colonial town and its impressive archaeological complex located on the mountaintop, with its magnificent agricultural terraces and ceremonial buildings.

*We will visit the charming towns of Ccoya, Lamay, Calca, and Urubamba, where you will enjoy a delicious buffet lunch with the best local cuisine.

*Ollantaytambo: In the afternoon, you will explore this fascinating Inca military, religious, and cultural center, considered one of the finest examples of urban planning in the empire.

From Ollantaytambo, we will board the train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Village), where we will spend the night preparing for the most anticipated day of the adventure.

***Overnight in Aguas Calientes.

DAY 3: MACHU PICCHU – THE LOST CITY OF THE INCAS

Breakfast at your hotel.

Early in the morning, we will take the bus up to the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of the World.

During the guided tour, you will explore the main structures of this magnificent archaeological complex:

*The Main Lookout with its panoramic views

*The enigmatic Temple of the Three Windows

*The precise Intihuatana sundial

*The majestic Main Plaza

*The ceremonial and residential areas.

After marveling at Inca engineering and wisdom, we will descend to Aguas Calientes village to take the train back to Ollantaytambo, from where you will be transferred to Cusco.

Additional option: After the guided tour of the Machu Picchu citadel, you have the option to ascend Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu, two spectacular viewpoints with unparalleled panoramic views of the sanctuary.

Additional cost: $65 USD (subject to availability and prior reservation).

***Accommodation in Cusco.

DAY 4: HUMANTAY LAKE EXCURSION

Get ready for an early departure, with pickup from your hotel at 4:30 a.m. We will travel approximately 2 hours to the town of Mollepata (2,900 meters above sea level), where we will have time for breakfast and acclimatization.

We will continue to Soraypampa, the starting point of our hike and a privileged spot to contemplate the majestic Salkantay snow-capped mountain. From here, we will begin a hike of approximately 1.5-2 hours to reach the dazzling Humantay Lagoon.

The turquoise waters of the lagoon, contrasting with the snow-capped mountains and Andean vegetation, create one of the most photogenic landscapes in all of Peru. After enjoying this natural paradise, we will descend for lunch in Mollepata before returning to Cusco around 6:30 p.m.

***Accommodation in Cusco.

DAY 5: RAINBOW MOUNTAIN (VINICUNCA)

The adventure begins very early, with pickup from your hotel between 4:30 and 4:45 a.m. We will travel approximately two hours south to the district of Cusipata, where we will have breakfast to recharge our batteries.

We will continue for another hour to Llaqto, the starting point of our hike to the world-famous Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca). The hike lasts approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes through Andean landscapes where you can observe llamas and alpacas in their natural habitat.

Upon reaching the mountain, located at 5,080 meters above sea level, you will be amazed by the geological spectacle: bands of various mineral colors that create a visual effect similar to a rainbow on the ground. Our guide will explain the geological formation while you enjoy plenty of time to photograph this unique natural phenomenon.

We will return to Cusipata for lunch before embarking on the return trip to Cusco, arriving at approximately 4:30 p.m.

***Overnight in Cusco

DAY 6: FAREWELL TO CUSCO

After breakfast, and at the agreed-upon time, we will transfer you to the airport or bus terminal, thus concluding this unforgettable adventure through the natural and archaeological treasures of Andean Peru.

Why choose our Machu Picchu and Vinicunca tour?

This 6-day experience has been meticulously planned to combine the most iconic destinations in the Cusco region in a single trip, allowing you to maximize your time and experience the essence of the Peruvian Andes. Our tour includes:

*Expert, bilingual local guides

*Entrance fees to all archaeological and natural sites

*Transfers and transportation in comfortable vehicles

*Accommodation in selected hotels

*Round-trip train tickets to Machu Picchu

*Bus tickets to ascend to the citadel

*Daily breakfasts and lunches as per itinerary

There’s no better way to experience the magic of Cusco, Machu Picchu, and the most impressive landscapes of the Andes than with this comprehensive tour of the land of the Incas.

OVERVIEW: MACHU PICCHU AND MOUNTAIN 7 COLORS TOUR – 6 DAYS

MAIN DESTINATIONS

*Cusco (Imperial City)

*Machu Picchu (Wonder of the World)

*Sacred Valley of the Incas

*Humantay Lagoon (Turquoise waters)

*Mountain of 7 Colors (Vinicunca)

SUMMARY ITINERARY

DAY 1: CUSCO

*City tour in the afternoon (4 hours)

*Visit to the Cathedral, Qorikancha, Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Pucapucara and Tambomachay.

*Night in Cusco

DAY 2: SACRED VALLEY → AGUAS CALIENTES

*Tour of the Sacred Valley: Pisaq, Ccoya, Lamay, Calca and Urubamba

*Visit to Ollantaytambo archaeological complex

*Train transfer to Aguas Calientes

*Overnight in Aguas Calientes.

DAY 3: MACHU PICCHU → CUSCO

*Guided tour of the Machu Picchu citadel

*Return by train to Ollantaytambo

*Transfer to Cusco

*Overnight in Cusco

DAY 4: HUMANTAY LAGOON

*Very early departure (4:30 am)

*Breakfast in Mollepata

*1.5-2-hour hike to Humantay Lagoon

*Return to Cusco in the afternoon

*Overnight in Cusco

DAY 5: RAINBOW MOUNTAIN

*Very early departure (4:30 am)

*Breakfast in Cusco.

*1 hour and 20-minute hike to Vinicunca (5,080 m) masl)

*Return to Cusco in the afternoon

*Overnight in Cusco.

DAY 6: DEPARTURE TRANSFER

*Breakfast at the hotel.

*Transfer to the airport or bus terminal.

Cusco & Machu Picchu 7-Day Touristic package

The 7-day Cusco & Machu Picchu Experience offers a perfect balance of cultural, archaeological, and natural adventures in the ancient heart of the Tahuantinsuyu. This comprehensive itinerary will allow you to discover the majesty of the Inca Empire while exploring Cusco’s most emblematic treasures, from its impressive colonial city to the mystical citadel of Machu Picchu, passing through the enchanting Sacred Valley, the ingenious salt mines of Maras, the experimental terraces of Moray, and the spectacular Rainbow Mountain or Vinicunca.

This comprehensive tour package offers a complete immersion in the history, culture, and landscapes of the ancient Inca Empire, combining the most emblematic sites with lesser-known but equally fascinating gems. An unforgettable experience for those seeking to discover the secrets of this extraordinary civilization in the heart of the Peruvian Andes.

DAY 1: CUSCO – COMBINED CITY TOUR – FIRST CONNECTION WITH THE INCA CULTURE

Your adventure begins with your arrival in the historic city of Cusco, located at 3,350 meters above sea level. A representative will greet you at the airport and transfer you comfortably to your selected hotel. You will have the morning free to gradually acclimatize to the Andean altitude and rest.

HALF-DAY CITY TOUR

Between 12:40 and 12:50 p.m., we will pick you up at your hotel to begin a fascinating city tour, which will reveal the secrets of this impressive colonial city masterfully built on Inca foundations. Our tour includes guided visits to the mystical Coricancha or Temple of the Sun, considered the Royal House of the Sun Cusco and the spiritual center of the empire.

Afterwards, we will explore the four most important archaeological ruins in the surroundings of Cusco: Sacsayhuaman, the impressive megalithic fortress strategically located 5 km from the city; Qenqo, a mysterious sacred amphitheater that functioned as a center of worship for the god Puma and as an astronomical observatory, where ancient rituals and human sacrifices were performed; Pucapucara, known as the “Red Fortress” due to the characteristic reddish hue its rocks acquire at sunset; and finally, Tambomachay, the sacred temple dedicated to the worship of water, a vital element in the Andean worldview.

The tour ends at approximately 6:00 PM, at which time we will transfer you back to your hotel in Cusco for your first night in the ancient Inca capital.

*** Accommodation in Cusco.

DAY 2: SOUTH VALLEY – TIPÓN – PIKILLACTA – ANDAHUAYLILLAS – HIDDEN ARCHAEOLOGICAL GEMS

After breakfast at your hotel, we embark on a fascinating exploration of Cusco’s South Valley, a lesser-known but equally impressive route that harmoniously combines beautiful natural landscapes with extraordinary archaeological sites.

We will visit the perfect works of Inca hydraulic engineering in Tipón, with its sophisticated canals and agricultural terraces; we will explore Pikillacta, an imposing pre-Inca city of the Wari culture that reveals fascinating aspects of the civilizations that preceded the Incas; and we will marvel at the beauty of the Andahuaylillas church, known as the “Sistine Chapel of the Americas” for its spectacular murals and Baroque ornamentation that fuses European and Andean elements. During the day, we will also enjoy the delicious local cuisine in traditional villages such as Saylla and Huasao, famous for their delicious traditional dishes.

In the afternoon, we will return to the imperial city of Cusco, where you will have free time to rest, stroll through its charming cobblestone streets, or perhaps visit a museum or artisan market on your own. Tonight we will again stay in Cusco.

*** Overnight in Cusco

DAY 3: SACRED VALLEY OF THE INCAS – AGRICULTURAL AND CULTURAL TREASURES

After breakfast at the hotel, we will enter the mystical Sacred Valley of the Incas, a region of extraordinary scenic beauty especially valued by the Incas for its fertility and strategic location.

We will first visit the charming town of Pisaq, where the traditional mass in Quechua is celebrated on Sundays. We will explore its imposing archaeological complex with monumental stepped agricultural terraces that demonstrate the Inca’s advanced knowledge of sustainable farming techniques.

We will continue our journey through the picturesque towns of Coya, Lamay, Calca, and Urubamba, absorbing the authenticity of Andean life at every stop. At midday, we will enjoy an exquisite buffet lunch to recharge our batteries.

In the afternoon, we will take a guided tour of the impressive archaeological site of Ollantaytambo, a gigantic multifunctional complex that simultaneously served as an agricultural, social, administrative, religious, and military center during the golden age of Tahuantinsuyu.

On our return trip to Cusco, we will stop in Chinchero, an Andean town where we will visit the Andean Textile Centers to appreciate the ancient weaving techniques passed down from generation to generation.

*** Overnight in Cusco

DAY 4: MACHU PICCHU – THE WONDER OF THE INCA WORLD

Today we reach the highlight of our trip: a visit to the mythical citadel of Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World and the most impressive legacy of the Inca Empire.

Early in the morning, we will head to the station to begin our train journey to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu village). During this approximately two-hour journey, we will enjoy spectacular views of the Andean landscape as we enter the lush jungle ecosystem. Upon arriving in Aguas Calientes, we will take a bus for an exciting 25-minute winding ascent to the entrance of the Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary.

We will enjoy a guided tour of approximately 2 hours, exploring the main buildings and learning about the extraordinary development of its stone constructions, unique in the world and imbued with profound mystery and ancestral energy.

After the guided tour, you will have free time to explore the citadel at your own pace or participate in optional activities such as climbing Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain (subject to availability and prior reservation) or hiking to the Sun Gate (Intipunku) for an unparalleled panoramic view.

At the agreed-upon time, we will descend by bus to Aguas Calientes to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before taking the return train to Ollantaytambo and continuing by bus to our hotel in Cusco.

*** Overnight in Cusco

DAY 5: MARAS AND MORAY – INCA ENGINEERING AND SCIENCE

After breakfast, we prepare to explore two unique archaeological sites that demonstrate the ingenuity and advanced scientific understanding of the Inca civilization: Maras and Moray.

The tour will begin between 8:00 and 8:30 a.m. We will first visit Maras, a picturesque Andean town located 3,300 meters above sea level, from where we will enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the Urubamba mountain range, including the imposing snow-capped mountains of La Verónica (5,682 meters above sea level) and Chikón (5,530 meters above sea level).

Nearby, we will explore the famous salt mines, an extraordinary complex of more than 3,000 salt pools used since pre-Inca times through a sophisticated natural evaporation system. We will continue to Moray, located just 7 kilometers southwest of Maras.

This unique archaeological site is characterized by gigantic natural depressions ingeniously exploited by the Incas to build concentric terrace systems, each with its own microclimate and sophisticated irrigation canals.

Moray functioned as an advanced agricultural laboratory, where Inca scientists conducted studies on crop adaptation to different climatic conditions, enabling the development of more than 1,500 varieties of potatoes and 150 types of corn, which represent approximately 60% of the vegetable products consumed in the world today.

In the afternoon, return to Cusco with free time to rest or engage in activities on your own.

*** Accommodation in CUSCO.

DAY 6: RAINBOW MOUNTAIN (VINICUNCA) – ANDEAN NATURAL WONDER

Get ready for an especially exciting day as we set out to conquer one of the most impressive and photographed natural wonders of the Peruvian Andes: the spectacular Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca or Rainbow Mountain.

We’ll start very early, with pickup between 4:30 and 4:40 a.m., to begin a journey of approximately 2 hours to the picturesque district of Cusipata. There, we’ll enjoy a nutritious Andean breakfast to fuel our energy needs.

Afterward, we’ll continue to the base station, the starting point for our hike to Rainbow Mountain. We’ll begin a moderate 4-kilometer hike (approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes of gradual ascent).

During the tour, we will connect with Andean nature, observing the rich native flora and fauna, including llamas and alpacas grazing freely. Our gaze will be lifted toward imposing sacred mountains such as Apu Sarinini and especially the majestic Ausangate (6,372 meters above sea level).

Upon reaching the summit, we will contemplate one of the most striking natural spectacles on the planet: multicolored mineral bands that form a true geological rainbow over the mountain. We will have plenty of time to admire this natural wonder and capture memorable photographs.

After this unique experience, we will begin the descent to our starting point and head to a cozy country restaurant in Cusipata to enjoy a delicious buffet lunch with typical regional dishes.

We will return to Cusco at approximately 4:30 p.m., with the rest of the day free to rest.

***Overnight in Cusco.

DAY 7: CUSCO – FAREWELL TO THE EMPIRE OF THE SUN

On this last day of our wonderful adventure through the heart of the ancient Inca Empire, we will enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel. Depending on your flight or transportation schedule, you will have free time to do some last-minute shopping, visit some unmissable sites, or simply stroll leisurely through the charming cobblestone streets of historic Cusco, once again absorbing the magical energy of this ancient city.

At the appropriate time, a representative from our agency will pick you up at your hotel and transfer you comfortably to the airport or bus terminal, culminating this transformative experience through the wonders of ancient Peru.

OVERVIEW:

This tour offers a balanced mix of cultural, archaeological, and natural adventures in the ancient heart of the Inca Empire. The itinerary takes you through the colonial city of Cusco, the mystical citadel of Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, the Maras Salt Mines, the Moray Terraces, and the spectacular Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca).

Daily Itinerary:

Day 1: Cusco – Combined City Tour

*Pick up at the airport and transfer to the hotel

*Free morning to acclimatize to the altitude (3,350 m.a.s.l.)

*Afternoon city tour including Coricancha (Temple of the Sun)

*Visit to four archaeological sites: Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Pucapucara and Tambomachay.

Day 2: South Valley – Hidden Archaeological Gems

*Visit to Tipon (Inca hydraulic engineering)

*Exploration of Pikillacta (pre-Inca Wari culture)

*Tour of the Andahuaylillas church ("Sistine Chapel of America")

*Traditional local gastronomy in towns like Saylla and Huasao

DAY 3: SACRED VALLEY OF THE INCAS