Best of Cusco 6D/5N

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Starting from $ 755.00

Per person in group Service

Duration:

6 Days / 5 Nights

Max. Altitude:

5200 m /17060.3 ft.

Team:

Driver Team + Local Guides

Style:

Cultural/Adventure

Physical Level:

Moderately challenging hike

Group Size:

Maximum 12 people

Our booking service offers a low deposit option that is fully refundable, providing you with added flexibility and peace of mind.

Embark on Best of Cusco 7 days adventure to uncover the true essence of Peru through its stunning high mountains, tropical valleys, canyons, and unique people. Discover the awe-inspiring ancient ruins of Cusco and Machu Picchu, immerse yourself in the vibrant wildlife, and witness the legendary landscapes of the Andes in Peru. This journey promises an unforgettable experience.

Trip Summary

Tour Location: Cusco City, Sacred Valley, 2-day Inca Trail, Rainbow Mountain + Red Valley.
Tour Type: Hiking, cultural, adventurous
Suitable For: Those in moderate shape, families.
Difficulty: Moderately challenging hike. It’s not a technical hike but the altitude may affect some individuals.
Consideration: Permit is required for 2 day Inca trail.
Season: Opened March through January. Closed February

Highlights

Join Peru Hikers for a tour led by knowledgeable local guides. Visit Cusco’s historic center, Sacsayhuaman, and Qorikancha. Explore Machu Picchu and the Rainbow Mountain. Meet the locals and travel in small groups for a personal experience.

Itinerary at a Glance:

DAY1

Arrival to Cusco and Free Walking tour with Peru Hikers

Upon your arrival at Cusco airport, we will be there to meet you and escort you to your hotel in Cusco. At 1:00 pm, we will begin our complimentary walking tour of the city, which includes visits to the Plaza de Armas, the renowned twelve-angled stone street, the San Pedro Market, and San Blas, the artisan neighborhood, along with its surrounding areas. You will be able to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the city throughout the tour.

DAY2

Cusco City – Inca Ruins

Join a knowledgeable guide today to explore the world’s top archeological sites, such as the stunning Cusco Cathedral, the revered Temple of the Sun (Qoricancha), the awe-inspiring Sacsayhuaman fortress, the Qenqo Pachamama Temple, and the tranquil Tambomachay Water Temple. After a day of adventure, you’ll make your way back to your cozy Cusco hotel in the late afternoon.

DAY3

Sacred Valley Tour (Small group)

Experience the breathtaking scenery of the Sacred Valley of the Incas on a full-day tour. Starting at 8:00 am, you’ll be picked up and taken to explore various sites, including the Alpaca Farm, Taray Viewpoint, Pisaq ruins, Urubamba, Salt Mines, and the Ollantaytambo Inca site. End the day by staying overnight in Ollantaytambo, known as “The Last Inca Town.”

DAY4

Inca Trail – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu

Our journey begins at 6:10 am from Ollantaytambo, as we take the first train to the Short Inca Trail – Km 104. We will hike for approximately 7 hours to reach Machu Picchu, arriving in the afternoon through the Sun Gate. You will be able to enjoy Machu Picchu with fewer crowds. Afterward, we will take a bus down to Aguas Calientes, where we will have dinner at a local restaurant and spend the night in a comfortable hotel.

DAY5

Machu Picchu (The Lost City of the Incas) & Return to Cusco

Today, we will rise early and enjoy breakfast at the hotel before taking the first buses to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of the citadel that will last three hours. Once we have explored Machu Picchu, we will board the Panoramic Vistadome train for our return journey, arriving back in Cusco at approximately 7.00 pm and returning to our hotel.

DAY6

Cusco – Trailhead – Rainbow Mountain – Cusco (Small group)

We will begin our journey from Cusco early in the morning, taking in the breathtaking beauty of Rainbow Mountain and the fascinating Red Valley. This is an exclusive tour that includes breakfast and lunch.

DAY 1

Arrival to Cusco and Free Walking tour with Peru Hikers

We’ll be waiting for you at the Cusco airport to take you to your hotel. From there, you’ll embark on a 3-hour walking tour of Cusco’s historical areas, led by an expert guide. You’ll explore charming backstreets and cobblestone paths, taking in the city’s unique blend of Inca and Spanish architectural styles and lifestyles. Cusco is one of the oldest living cities in the Americas, and you’ll get to experience its authentic culture firsthand. You’ll visit the San Blas neighborhood, see the famous twelve-angled stone street, and even stop by the local San Pedro market to try some fresh fruit juice from one of the stalls.

Entrance tickets are included. Come discover the wonders of Cusco with Peru Hikers!

DAY 2

Cusco City – Inca Ruins

We will meet you at your hotel lobby at 1 p.m. to start your tour. Our first stop will be at Cusco’s Plaza de Armas, where you will visit the famous cathedral. Then, we will walk through an ancient Inca-built street to reach Q’oricancha, the Temple of the Sun. Here, you will be able to compare and contrast the building methods of the Incan culture and Catholicism. This was the key spiritual center of the Incas, which leads to all four quarters of the Inca Empire. You will also get to see a bronze, high altar.

After Qoricancha, we will take a 25-minute bus ride outside the city to reach the majestic Inca site, Sacsayhuaman. Your tour guide will show you around and provide you with the history of the spectacular Sacsayhuaman fortress.

Next, we will take a short bus ride to the Qenqo Inca site to observe some altars from Incan times. Then, we will drive to Puca Pucara, a small circular Inca site, and finish with a visit to Tambomachay, the temple of water. We will then drive you back to Cusco and drop you off at your hotel.

Accommodations: Rumi Punku (or similar)
Meals Included: None
Entrance Tickets: Included

DAY 3

Sacred Valley Tour (Small group)

Your tour of the Sacred Valley begins promptly at 8 a.m. when your guide will greet you in your hotel lobby. After departing, we will embark on a scenic drive that winds around the magnificent mountains located north of Cusco. Along the way, we will make a stop at the Alpaca Farm. Here, you will have the opportunity to learn about the four different types of South American camelids, feed them, and experience ancient weaving techniques.

Next, we will continue our journey to the famous El Mirador lookout point where you can see the breathtaking Sacred Valley. The Sacred Valley was a significant area where the Incas settled, and it boasts an abundance of fertile plains in this high region of the Andes. You can also witness the vast contour terracing and irrigation channels left behind by the Incas, gaining insight into their rich history.

Afterward, we will drive towards the ruins of Pisac where you will be able to witness and learn about Inca culture. You will see impressive works of stone art and remarkable agricultural terraces. Following this exploration, we will head back to the lower town of Pisac to visit a bustling handicraft market where you can spend some time browsing and bargaining. Later, we will meet for lunch at a local Andean restaurant.

After a delicious lunch, we will drive along the Urubamba River towards the town of Ollantaytambo. Once we reach Ollantaytambo, we will visit the ruins, an essential area of Incan construction that was built during their heyday. This is an extraordinary Inca site as you can find rock formations that represent the Inca god, Wiracocha. Lastly, we will drop you off at your hotel in Ollantaytambo town.

Accommodations: pakaritampu (or similar)
Meals Included: Yes (B&L)
Entrance Tickets: Included

DAY 4

Inca Trail – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu

Your short Inca trail hike will begin with a pick-up from your hotel at 5:40 a.m. We will then head to the train station to catch the 6:10 a.m. train from Ollantaytambo, which offers breathtaking views of the Urubamba River, snow-capped mountain peaks, and cornfield farms. As we go down, you will notice the changes in climate – from the mountains and cornfields to green jungle valleys with ferns, bromeliads, and orchids – as the temperature rises. We will disembark at Km 104, after a one-hour and ten-minute train ride, where you can enjoy some snacks before the trek. Please remember to bring your original passport, as this is the first checkpoint of the Inca Trail. After some preparation time, we will explore the first Inca site, Chachabamaba, followed by a three-hour climb up to the famous Inca site, Wiñay Wayna. Along the trail, you will see stunning views of Machu Picchu and the Urubamba River, as well as the local flora and fauna. The trail has some flat areas, short uphill and downhill hikes, and steps arranged in sections that can be narrow in some areas but not dangerous. Once we reach Wiñay Wayna, your expert guide will take you on a tour of the Inca site, including temples, waterfalls, gardens, storehouses, watchtowers, and farming terraces. After lunch and a short nap, we will embark on a one-hour gradual hike to the Sun Gate, where you can take in spectacular views of Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu, and the surrounding valleys. This was used by the Incas to observe the sunrise from Machu Picchu during the summer solstice. From there, it is another hour’s hike to reach the Machu Picchu ruins. You can explore the watchtower area and take charming pictures of Machu Picchu without crowds. Finally, a 30-minute bus ride will take us to Aguas Calientes, where a nice hotel and hot shower await you. Later in the evening, you can enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the fine restaurants.

Highlight: Trekking the Inca Trail, enjoying the views from the Sun Gate, sunset views from Machu Picchu

Walking Distance: 15 km / 8 miles
Meals: Included
Elevations: Trek starting point 2,000 m, the highest point is Sun Gate 2,720 m, the camp is at 1,900 m
Weather: Hot and humid

DAY 5

Machu Picchu (The Lost City of the Incas) & Return to Cusco

Your adventure on the fifth day begins with an early morning departure. At 5:30 AM, you will embark on a fascinating journey by boarding a bus from the quaint town of Machu Picchu. The bus will take you on an ascending route to the entrance of Machu Picchu, nestled at an altitude of 2450m/8.038ft.

The ascent provides a unique adventure of its own, filled with panoramic views that promise to leave a lasting impression on your memory. When you arrive, you will use your entrance tickets to gain access to the world-famous Inca citadel. Here, you will embark on an unforgettable exploration of the ancient ruins, walking through the impressive Inca terraces, and marveling at the intricate stone constructions of the Temple of the Sun and Pachamama.

Your tour guide will lead you through the key areas of interest within Machu Picchu, offering detailed insights into the historical and cultural significance of each site. Afterward, you will have time to explore independently. Those who have tickets to Huayna Picchu will have time to climb the mountain, which takes approximately an hour and a half round-trip.

You will then descend back to Aguas Calientes and catch the train back to the city of Cusco, arriving at approximately 7:30 PM. This marks the conclusion of your three-day Cusco, Sacred Valley Machu Picchu Tour.

Highlight: Arrive early to Machu Picchu to enjoy the sunrise
Temperature: Warm and humid
Meals: Breakfast Only
Train: Expedition tourist class

DAY 6

Cusco – Trailhead – Rainbow Mountain – Cusco (Small group)

We will arrive to pick you up from your hotel, Airbnb, or hostel in Cusco between 4:00 and 4:30 am. From there, we will drive for about 3 hours to reach the trailhead, arriving around 7 am. During the drive, our chef will prepare a delicious breakfast with coffee, hot chocolate, tea, bread, fruit salad, eggs, and hot drinks. The trailhead, Phulawasipata, is located at an elevation of 4700 m/ 15.41995 ft, which is much colder than Cusco’s elevation of 3300m / 11,300ft, so be sure to bring a warm jacket, scarf, hat, and gloves. We will hike uphill for about 2 hours (or 2¾ hours at a slower pace, or 1½ hours for those who are quick and well-acclimatized) until we reach Rainbow Mountain. Along the way, our guide will provide information about the mountains and the geography of the area, and you may even see llamas and alpacas. The trail is wide and good for those with vertigo or fear of heights, but it can be dusty or slippery in the rainy season, so waterproof hiking shoes and trekking poles are recommended.

At the top of Rainbow Mountain, which we will reach around 9-10:00am, you’ll have about an hour to take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains, including the highest glacial mountain in Cusco, Ausangate. Our guide will share interesting facts about the area and its Incan history, including the reason behind the mountain’s vibrant colors. After some final photos, we will descend to a lookout point to see the Red Valley before continuing on the trail. Many of our hikers say that the Red Valley is even more stunning than Rainbow Mountain! The downhill trek back to the end of the trail will take about 2½ hours, mostly downhill. Afterward, we will enjoy a fresh meal prepared by our chef, including cold drinks, appetizers, soup, and a main course. Finally, we will drive you back to your hotel in Cusco, arriving around 5:30-6:00 pm.

Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Entry fees: included

Included:

Professional Guides Our guides have studied English and tourism at Cusco National University. They are natives of this region and are very passionate about sharing their cultural heritage with others. They are both fun and professional and will guarantee your safety and happiness throughout your tour.
Hotels The package includes a three-night stay in a hotel with a private room and bathroom. Breakfast is also included if you choose the hotel option. Please note that this applies only if you select the price that includes hotel accommodations.

This tour may includes one evening in Cusco, one evening in Ollantaytambo, and one evening in Aguas Calientes. If needed, We can add extra nights before or after the tour. Let our team know if you are interested in extending and we will give you a quote. Rooms are based on double occupancy. There is a surcharge for a single room. Upgraded hotels are always possible. We can also book the tour without any hotels if you prefer to book them alone.
Transportation All your transportation is included on this tour. Peru Hikers offers a door-to-door service (pick up and drop off at your hotel) and will make sure you are escorted until you are brought back to your hotel in the evenings.
Tickets All entrance fees are included (BTG boleto turistico for city tour, Qoricancha Temple of the Sun, Cathedral, Sacred Valley, Inca Trail tickets, Machu Picchu fee, bus tickets for round from/to Aguas Calientes, and Rainbow Mountain entrance fees.
Train Tickets Train tickets are in Inka Rail or Expeditions tourist class, from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes is at 6.00 am and from Aguas Calientes to Ollanatyatmbo or Poroy is Vistadome Train at 2:55, 4.20 pm.
Transfers No matter what, which train you take from Machu Picchu to Cusco, the transfer back from train station to your hotel is included.
First Aid Peru Hikers takes seriously the safety and health of our travelers. Professionals in First Aid, Altitude Sickness, and CPR training. All of our guides are certified in emergency first aid and CPR. It is a requirement for all of our guides to take First Aid, Altitude Sickness and CPR training. And they always carry rescue oxygen for altitude sickness.
Meal At Peru Hikers, Peruvian Cuisine reflects the country’s history, with a variety that is unique in the world. We find dishes that sweeten our palates in every corner of the country. The cuisines of the North Coast, the Amazon, and Novo-Andean cuisine are waiting to be served at your table so you can have an unparalleled gastronomic experience with us.
Your food is included from day 3 to day 6: (4B, 3L & 2D)

No Included:

Huayna Picchu Huayna Picchu is the mountain that stands next to Machu Picchu. It is a 45-minute hike to the top. Going back down is quite steep, if you are scared of heights. This is done without your tour guide, after your tour of Machu Picchu. The cost is $75 per person. Arrangements need to be made at least one month in advance, due to popularity. Please understand that weather is out of our control.
Flights Flying to Cusco can be tricky. Delays occur often and it is not uncommon for flights to be cancelled. Please be sure to arrive in the city at least two days before your trek start date. LAN Peru is the most reliable of the airlines. Avianca and Peruvian Airlines are acceptable companies, as well. You will not be return from your trek until around 8 p.m. on the last day, so be sure your flight is not until the next day, when leaving Cusco.
Gratuities Tipping is always appreciated and should be based completely on your satisfaction. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels.
Travel Insurance This is not required, but always recommended. For those of you who live at sea-level, landing in Cusco will take an adjustment period. Most people need one or two days to adjust. In case you have a hard time adjusting to the altitude, it is suggested to have protection for missed tours.
Meals Meals are not included on day 1 and 2 but our guides will recommend some good places.

What to Take

Original Passport
Walking/Hiking boots
Waterproof jacket / rain poncho
Warm jacket
Hat and gloves
4-5 T-shirts
Comfortable trousers
Sun hat
Sun cream (factor 35 or higher)
Insect repellant
Toiletries and hand sanitiser
Personal medication
Camera and film with extra batteries
Extra money for souvenirs
25L Daypack recommended

Price per person:

$ 1500 USD

Private tour from 2 travelers with 3*** hotels(3 nights 1 Cusco, 1 Ollantaytambo and 1 at Aguas Calientes)

Price per person:

$ 1350 USD

Group service with Hotel 4**** hotels 3 nights(1 night 4* Cusco, 1 night Ollantaytambo 3* and at Aguas Callientes 4*)

Price per person:

$ 850 USD

Group service with 3*** hotels 3 nights(1 night Cusco 1 night Ollantaytambo and 1 at Aguas Callientes)

Price per person:

$ 755 USD

Group service without hotels(booked by yourself)

Price per person:

$ 1500 USD

Private tour from 2 travelers with 3*** hotels(3 nights 1 Cusco, 1 Ollantaytambo and 1 at Aguas Calientes)

$ 1350 USD

Group service with Hotel 4**** hotels 3 nights(1 night 4* Cusco, 1 night Ollantaytambo 3* and at Aguas Callientes 4*)

$ 850 USD

Group service with 3*** hotels 3 nights(1 night Cusco 1 night Ollantaytambo and 1 at Aguas Callientes)

$ 755 USD

Group service without hotels(booked by yourself)

Optional Services

Additional Items: Below is a quick list of prices, but check our Additional Options section for more details. : Find more hotels https://www.hotels.com/de1635689/hotels-cusco-peru/
Huayna Picchu: Huayna Picchu is the mountain that stands next to Machu Picchu. It is a 45-minute hike to the top. While this hike is done on your own, your guide will direct you to where this hike begins. This is an additional entrance ticket that we can secure for you with advance notice.
Price: $75 Per Person
Machu Picchu Mountain : Machu Picchu mountain is the other mountain that stands above the Machu Picchu ruins. It offers even more stunning views than Huayna Picchu, but takes an hour and a half to reach the top. This is an additional entrance ticket that we can secure for you and must begin between 9-10AM. Because this is during your tour of Machu Picchu, we can secure for you.
$75 Per Person
Vistadome Train : All our tours include the Expeditions (Tourist) Train. This train is normally booked at 4:22 p.m., leaving Aguas Calientes. The Vistadome train is an upgraded train, that offers slightly larger seats, windows and even some entertainment. Normally the Vistadome train is booked for 4:43 p.m. and travels to Poroy, a train station closer to Cusco. While this is an upgraded fee, we will still include your transportation back to your hotel.
$75 Per Student
Hotel Upgrades in Machu Pueblo : Consider upgrading your hotel to elevate your comfort level. Choose from the luxurious options of El Mapi(1st option) for $155 or Tierra Viva Hotel(As second opotion) for $85 based on availability!

1. What route will your Best of Cusco 7-day tour follow?

We begin our journey in Cusco with a fascinating Free Walking Tour on day 1. Day 2 involves exploring the beautiful city of Cusco and its surroundings. On day 3, we head to the Sacred Valley of the Incas where we get to witness the magnificent Inca buildings like Pisac and Ollantaytambo. After that, we embark on a short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, which is the ultimate goal of our trip. Finally, we get to explore the Sacred City of the Incas – Machu Picchu. Our journey back to Cusco involves taking the Vistadome train to Ollantaytambo and then transferring to a van for the return trip to Cusco.

2. How can I book the Best of Cusco 7 day tour with Peru Hikers?

To book our Best of Cusco 7-day tour, click on the Book Now button, select your desired departure date, and fill out the personal information for each participant. Payment can be made using a credit or debit card, but please only send us the deposit. Once we receive your deposit, we will require pictures of each participant’s passport to purchase Machu Picchu train tickets. Please don’t worry- it is guaranteed once we confirm your start date. We will send you a confirmation once we have the Machu Picchu tickets in our possession and everything is completely organized.

3. Is it possible for me to store my luggage at your office?

Absolutely! Rest assured that even though you’re embarking on an epic overnight adventure, we still must abide by certain luggage restrictions. But no worries, any extra baggage can be easily and safely stowed away either at Peru Hikers office-deposit or your hotel in Cusco, completely free of charge. Now, let’s get ready to explore!

4. How many travelers are allowed to participate in a tour?

Our exclusive group sizes guarantee you’ll have all the space you need to explore your surroundings and interact with them more personally. Plus, with our top-notch guides providing individualized attention, you’ll feel like a VIP on your adventure. You don’t need to worry about overcrowding – we’ll be able to cap our groups at 15, with an average of 08 travelers per trip. Get ready for an unforgettable experience!

5. After the Machu Picchu tour, will transportation be provided to take us to our hotel?

All your transportation is included on this tour. Peru Hikers offers a door-to-door service (pick up and drop off at your hotel) and will ensure you are escorted until you are returned to your hotel in the evenings. What is the schedule of my train? A recommended itinerary is to depart from Ollantaytambo on day four at 6:10 am and reach km 104 to hike the short Inca trail. On day 5, after exploring Machu Picchu, you can take a train back to Cusco at 2:55 pm, 3:20 pm, 4:22 pm, or 4:43 pm, depending on availability.

6. What is the Short Inca Trail?

Embark on a remarkable journey with our two-day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu and witness the breathtaking beauty of the landscape. This option is perfect for beginners or those short on time, allowing you ample opportunity to explore the world-renowned Machu Picchu and capture the perfect photograph. Even if the complete classic Inca Trail permits are sold out, our tour provides an excellent alternative. As you enter the sacred ground of the Incas through the Sun Gate at sunset, you’ll hike to Machu Picchu in no time, presenting an unparalleled opportunity to experience it twice. Our tour guarantees one day of hiking and one day of unraveling the mysteries of Machu Picchu. Get ready to be inspired!

7. Is it possible for me to make my own hotel reservation in Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Aguas Calientes?

Indeed, you can book any hotel in Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Aguas Calientes. This will lower the cost to $300 per person. If you want to choose your own hotel, please let us know the details so our customer service can ensure a safe arrival at your chosen destination.

8. Will I bring my original passport on the Best of Cusco 7-Day tour?

For a hassle-free experience on your short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, you must carry your original passport, which should match the one used to make your ticket reservation. Your access will be verified at three checkpoints – the short Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, and when boarding the train.

If you are in the process of renewing your passport, there is no need to panic. You can still book your Machu Picchu ticket by emailing us a copy of your old passport. If you don’t have your old passport, you can use any government-issued ID with the same name. Once you get your new passport, please send us a copy so we can keep your ticket information up-to-date.

9. Can I get a student discount?

As per Peruvian Law, visitors to Machu Picchu must be under the age of 18 to qualify for a discount. If you are 18 or older, you’ll need a valid student card. I’ve included a good student card sample below.

Those aged between 11 and 17 can avail of a discount of $30 USD, while children between 2 and 11 can get a discount of $35 USD. To help with the student discount, all students must provide a copy of their passport and student card while booking. The document can be sent to us at info@peruhikers.com.

10. What is the Rainbow Mountain?

The Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) in the Peruvian Andes is truly a wonder of nature. Its vibrant coloring is a unique result of mineral deposits in the rock layers, and it is surrounded by the majestic Mount Ausangate – the highest peak in the Cusco region (6400 m/20,997 ft.) As you explore this breathtaking landscape, you’ll witness the authentic way of life of the local people, who live in harmony with Pachamama.

11. Is the Rainbow Mountain hike difficult?

The Rainbow Mountain trek can be challenging due to the high altitude (over 5,000 meters / 16,400 feet). Altitude sickness can be a concern, so acclimatization is essential.

12. What are the essential items that you need to pack for this trip?

When embarking on your journey to explore the wonders of Cusco, Sacred Valley, Short Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain, it’s essential to keep a few things in mind. Remember your passport, extra cash, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. Leave heavy equipment behind and opt for a camera to capture your memories. You are protected from the elements by packing bug spray and sun protection and dressed appropriately for the heat and cold. Comfortable shoes and a light waterproof layer will keep you comfortable in unexpected rain showers. Lastly, could you bring your swimsuit for a refreshing dip in the hot springs of Aguas Calientes? With these essentials, you can enjoy your adventure and create unforgettable memories.

Best of Cusco 6D/5N