I Love Cusco 6D/5N

Prepare for an enriching journey through the Sacred Valley, a region that offers a deep insight into the agricultural practices of the Incas, who were skilled farmers cultivating crops like potatoes, corn, and quinoa.

Our adventure commences with a hotel pickup at 8 am. We’ll then embark on a picturesque drive from Cusco to Chinchero, our first official stop. Chinchero once served as the capital of potato farming, and depending on the season, you’ll have the chance to witness the farming areas in action. Additionally, we’ll visit a weaving center where you’ll gain firsthand knowledge of the textile production process. This is an excellent opportunity to shop for souvenirs at reasonable prices.

Our journey then leads us to Moray, where we’ll traverse the stunning agricultural terraces known as the ‘circular terraces.’ Moray functioned as a farming laboratory for the Incas, who adapted crops from different elevations. This site offers a unique connection to Pachamama (Mother Earth) and provides a remarkable glimpse into Inca agricultural ingenuity.

After our exploration of Moray, we’ll continue to Urubamba, where we’ll savor a delicious lunch. Rejuvenated, we’ll embark on a 30-minute drive to Ollantaytambo, often referred to as the ‘last living Inca city.’ Here, you’ll have the opportunity to explore a fascinating Inca archaeological site, guided by our expert. The tour will provide valuable insights into the significance of this historical site.

Finally, our guide will accompany you to your hotel in Ollantaytambo, where you’ll spend the night. This day promises a profound experience in the heart of the Sacred Valley, allowing you to appreciate the agricultural heritage and cultural richness of the region.

Acomodation: Sol Natura.
Ticket: Included
Meals: NA.

We kickstart our adventure with a prompt 5:45 am pickup from your hotel, followed by a brief walk to the train station. Our journey commences aboard the train, transporting us to km 104, the starting point of the short Inca Trail. At this official checkpoint, it’s essential to present your original Passport, where you can obtain a stamp if desired.

After gearing up and preparing for the hike, our initial stop is the Chacabamba Inca site, located at the trail’s outset. Here, you’ll enjoy a guided tour that provides valuable insights into its historical significance. As we continue our journey, the trail gradually ascends for approximately 3.5 hours. Along the way, we’ll make several stops to relish the breathtaking views, capture stunning photographs, and enjoy well-deserved snacks. The trail takes us through a cloud forest section, adorned with magnificent flowers, particularly orchids, and bustling with hummingbirds.

Our next highlight is the awe-inspiring Wiñayhuayna Inca site, often regarded as ‘Little Machu Picchu’ by many travelers. Here, you’ll receive a guided tour and have time to immerse yourself in the splendor of this unique Inca site. Following this enriching experience, we’ll break for lunch.

Continuing our trek, we embark on an additional hour of walking to reach the Sun Gate. This exclusive privilege is reserved for Inca Trail hikers, providing a magnificent vantage point to behold Machu Picchu. We typically arrive at the Sun Gate by 2 pm, offering a perfect opportunity to savor the afternoon views, and, with luck, witness a memorable sunset.

From the Sun Gate, it’s another hour of gradual downhill walking to reach the illustrious Machu Picchu citadel. The trail leads you directly to the upper part of Machu Picchu, where you’ll be treated to unparalleled vistas. You’ll have ample time to relish the panoramic views, capture photographs and videos, and absorb the awe-inspiring atmosphere.

Subsequently, you’ll board a bus to descend to the charming town of Aguas Calientes, where you’ll spend the night. Upon arrival at your hotel, you can freshen up with a shower before enjoying a well-deserved dinner at a local restaurant. This day offers a truly immersive and rewarding journey, leading you to the crown jewel of Machu Picchu.

Acomodation: Tierra Viva Machu Picchu *** or similar
Tickets: Included
Meals: breakfast – lunch and dinner

Today marks the pinnacle of our journey, and it begins with an early breakfast. Your guide will pick you up from your hotel, and together, you’ll catch one of the early buses that ascend to Machu Picchu. Upon arriving at Machu Picchu, your guide will lead you to the upper part of the citadel, where you’ll have the privilege of witnessing the sunrise (season-dependent). This moment offers the perfect opportunity to capture some of the most breathtaking photographs of Machu Picchu. Take your time to soak in the magic and majesty that this New Wonder of the World has to offer.

Following the sunrise experience, our walking tour begins. Led by your expert guide, you’ll explore the most significant sectors and palaces within the Machu Picchu complex. This guided tour typically lasts around 2.5 hours, providing you with invaluable insights into the history and architecture of this ancient site.

If you’ve secured a Huayna Picchu ticket, you’ll have the option to embark on the renowned Huayna Picchu hike. This challenging but rewarding trek takes approximately 2 hours to complete, offering unparalleled views and a unique perspective of Machu Picchu. Please note that Huayna Picchu tickets need to be booked in advance and cost $75 each.

For those without a Huayna Picchu ticket, you can bid farewell to the Lost City of the Incas until your next visit. Afterward, you’ll descend by bus to Aguas Calientes town. Here, you’ll enjoy your final group lunch (not included) before taking an afternoon train back to Ollantaytambo. Our driver will be waiting for you in Ollantaytambo to safely transport you back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel around 8 pm. This day promises a culmination of unforgettable experiences and memories.

Acomodation: Tierra Viva Hotels.
Ticket: Included
Meals: NA.

Prepare for a thrilling day as your guide arrives at your hotel promptly at 4 am. The adventure begins with a roughly 3-hour drive to the trailhead, offering picturesque landscapes along the way. Halfway to our destination, we’ll make a stop for a nourishing breakfast to fuel our journey.

Once we arrive at the trailhead, situated at an elevation of 4,350 meters, we’ll prepare for our trek. Due to the high elevation, be sure to dress warmly and come prepared for a cold and dry climate. The hike itself spans approximately 4 kilometers and ascends for nearly 2.5 hours. This challenging yet rewarding trail leads us to the awe-inspiring Rainbow Mountain, also known as ‘Winikunqa,’ which stands at a staggering altitude of 5,150 meters. Here, you’ll have ample time to savor the breathtaking surroundings and capture remarkable photographs of this natural wonder.

Our adventure doesn’t end here; we’ll continue our hike to explore the captivating Red Valley, located on the reverse side of Rainbow Mountain. From the elevated vantage point, you’ll be treated to an unobstructed view of the entire valley, which boasts a striking red hue, creating a truly unique and unforgettable sight.

After relishing the beauty of both Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley, we’ll retrace our steps along the same path, eventually reaching the trailhead. Our waiting driver will then transport us back, with approximately a 50-minute drive, to a local restaurant, where you’ll enjoy a well-deserved and delicious lunch.

Following this satisfying meal, we’ll make our way back to Cusco, where you’ll be safely dropped off at your hotel. Anticipate returning to Cusco around 5:50 pm. This day promises a thrilling adventure amid the stunning landscapes of Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley, offering memories and photographs to treasure.

Acomodation: Tierra Viva Hotels.
Ticket: Included
Meals: NA.

Your adventure begins with an early 4:00 am pick-up from your hotel. After a 2-hour drive through the Andean countryside, we’ll arrive in Mollepata, a charming village where we’ll have breakfast to fuel up for the day ahead. We then continue on a 1-hour drive along a dusty road to Soraypampa (3,850 meters), where we’ll start our hike. At this altitude, the weather can be chilly, so be sure to bring warm layers, including gloves and a hat.

During the dry season (May to October), expect clear skies, but don’t forget your sunhat and sunscreen for protection against the high-altitude sun. After preparing, we begin our 2-hour ascent to Humantay Lake, with the final portion being steeper but offering rewarding views. As you hike, you’ll be surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, with Salkantay Glacier towering above the lake.

Reaching Humantay Lake is a moment to pause and take in the breathtaking beauty of its turquoise waters, set against a dramatic backdrop of snow-capped peaks. You’ll have time to enjoy the tranquility of this incredible place before we begin the return hike. The descent to Soraypampa takes approximately 1.5 hours, where our vehicle will be waiting for the next leg of the journey.

After the hike, we’ll drive back to Mollepata for a delicious lunch before heading back to Cusco, arriving by 6:00 pm. This unforgettable day promises stunning landscapes, the peace of the mountains, and memories you’ll cherish.

Accommodation: Tierra Viva Hotels or Similar.
Ticket: Included
Meals: B-L