Cusco & Machu Picchu Journeys

Embark on the ultimate Andean adventure with our Cusco & Machu Picchu Journeys tour, a rich blend of history, nature, and living culture. Begin with a guided walking tour through the heart of Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, where narrow cobblestone streets and colonial plazas echo with centuries of heritage. Explore the Sacred Valley's vibrant landscapes and ancient ruins, then uncover the agricultural secrets of Moray and the dazzling salt mines of Maras.

Continue your journey with the unforgettable Short Inca Trail hike, arriving at Machu Picchu through the legendary Sun Gate, a view that will stay with you forever. Marvel at the natural beauty of Rainbow Mountain before traveling across the highlands to Lake Titicaca. Visit the floating Uros Islands and the artisan community of Taquile, where timeless traditions are kept alive. This immersive journey is perfect for travelers seeking a balance of adventure, culture, and iconic sights in the heart of Peru.

OVERVIEW
ITINERARY

Cusco & Machu Picchu Journeys: Sacred Treasures of the Andes

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the heart of the Andes with our Cusco & Machu Picchu Journeys tour. This thoughtfully crafted itinerary takes you from the cobblestone streets of Cusco to the Sacred Valley’s timeless Inca terraces and vibrant markets. Experience the fascinating circular terraces of Moray and the shimmering salt pools of Maras before hiking the scenic Short Inca Trail, arriving at Machu Picchu through the iconic Sun Gate.

Continue your adventure with a rewarding hike to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley, where the colors of the earth meet the vast Andean sky. Then journey south to Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake, where you’ll visit the floating Uros Islands and connect with the local Taquile Island community. A perfect balance of history, nature, and culture, ideal for curious travelers seeking authentic Peru.

Tour at a Glance

Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights

Destinations: Cusco, Sacred Valley, Moray & Maras, Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley, Puno, Lake Titicaca

Tour Style: Cultural & Soft Adventure

Trip Level: Moderate (some walking and high-altitude hikes)

Group Size: Small group or private departures available

Best Time to Go: March to December

Starting Point: Cusco

Ending Point: Puno

Availability: Daily departures with advance booking

Tour Highlights

Explore Cusco’s ancient streets on a guided walking tour through Inca and colonial landmarks.

Discover the beauty and history of the Sacred Valley, including Pisac and Ollantaytambo.

Visit the fascinating agricultural terraces of Moray and the dazzling salt mines of Maras.

Hike the iconic Short Inca Trail and arrive at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.

Tour the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu with expert insights from your local guide.

Trek to the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain and the surreal Red Valley in one unforgettable day.

Journey across the high plains to Puno along the scenic Sun Route, rich in culture and landscapes.

Experience Lake Titicaca with visits to the Uros Floating Islands and traditional Taquile Island.

What You Will Experience

This immersive journey blends Peru’s most iconic landscapes and cultural treasures. Begin with a guided walking tour of Cusco, where cobblestone streets reveal layers of Inca and colonial history. Explore the stunning Sacred Valley, visiting traditional Andean villages, vibrant markets, and majestic archaeological sites like Pisac and Ollantaytambo.

Your adventure continues on the Short Inca Trail, a rewarding one-day hike through lush cloud forests and ancient ruins, culminating with a breathtaking first glimpse of Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. Discover the awe-inspiring beauty and mysteries of this Wonder of the World with your expert guide.

Then, venture into the surreal colors of Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley, standing above 5,000 meters for panoramic Andean views. The journey closes with a scenic ride to Lake Titicaca, where you'll visit the floating Uros Islands and Taquile Island, experiencing the rich traditions of Peru’s highland cultures.

Each step of this journey is filled with wonder, authenticity, and unforgettable moments, perfect for curious, adventurous travelers.

Travel in style with CHAMPIONS!

Day 01: Welcome to Cusco – The Heart of the Inca Empire

Upon arrival at Cusco airport, our friendly driver will be waiting to greet you and transfer you to your hotel in the historic center. Once you’ve checked in, take a moment to unwind with a warm cup of coca tea, it’s a traditional remedy that helps ease the effects of altitude. Enjoy a free afternoon to rest, explore the charming streets nearby, and begin soaking in the magic of the Andes. Welcome to the land of the Incas, your adventure starts here!

Accomodation: Rumipunko or Similar
Meals: None
Tickets: NA

Day 02: Discover the Flavors of Peru – Cooking Class with Locals

Get ready for a flavorful day as you dive into the heart of Peruvian cuisine. We’ll pick you up from your hotel at 8:50 a.m. and head to San Pedro Market, Cusco’s most traditional and colorful local market. Your professional chef will guide you through the vibrant stalls, introducing you to native Andean ingredients such as quinoa, potatoes, aji peppers, tropical fruits, and superfoods like maca and kiwicha. You’ll learn about their origin, health benefits, and how they are used in daily Peruvian cooking.

After gathering your ingredients and insights, we continue to a cozy cooking studio where your hands-on culinary adventure begins. With the chef’s guidance, you’ll prepare a starter, main course, and a traditional Peruvian dessert, all paired with a refreshing pisco sour you’ll also learn to make! Whether it’s ceviche, lomo saltado, or causa limeña, every dish reflects the diversity of Peru’s cultural and natural landscapes.

Once everything is ready, sit down and enjoy the delicious meal you’ve created together. The class ends around 1:30 p.m., and the afternoon is yours to relax or explore more of Cusco.

This experience is more than just a cooking class, it’s a cultural exchange that connects you with the local flavors, traditions, and warm hospitality of the Andes.