Classic Archaeological Cusco – 5 Days

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Inca history and culture. Explore the fascinating Maras Salt Mines, the mysterious agricultural terraces of Moray, the beauty of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, and the majestic Machu Picchu. Enjoy the comfort of staying in Aguas Calientes, at the foot of…

1. Day 1Arrival in Cusco and acclimatization

   🛬 Arrival in Cusco
   Upon landing at Cusco Airport, our team will be waiting to warmly welcome you and accompany you on the transfer to your selected hotel.

   🌄 Located at an altitude of 3,400 meters, Cusco requires travelers to take a short period to acclimate, which is essential to fully enjoy the charms the city has to offer.

   ✨ For a smooth acclimatization, we recommend:

   😴 Resting for 2 to 3 hours after arrival
   🍵 Try traditional coca tea, a natural remedy for altitude sickness
   💧 Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water
   🥗 Opt for light meals to help maintain your body’s balance

   With these simple tips, you’ll be ready to start your trip with energy and peace of mind.

   📍 Overnight stay: Hotel in Cusco 🏨

2. Day 2Cusco – Maras Salt Mines, Moray, and the Andean Women’S Community

   🌄 After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll pick you up at 8:30 a.m. to begin our journey to some of the most authentic sites in the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

   ✨ Itinerary:

   🧶 Chinchero: Visit the artisan market, where local families showcase their handwoven textiles made using traditional techniques and natural dyes.

   🌱 Moray: an impressive Inca agricultural laboratory, with circular terraces that reveal the ingenuity and wisdom of this ancient civilization.

   🧂 Maras Salt Mines: more than 3,000 salt pits form a unique landscape, still used today by local communities.

   🕒 The tour ends at approximately 3:30 p.m. in Cusco.

   Our van will drop you off near Cusco’s Plaza de Armas, so you can continue exploring this historic and charming city.

   📍 Overnight: Hotel in Cusco 🏨

3. Day 3Cusco – Sacred Valley Of The Incas / Transfer to Aguas Calientes

   🌄 At 7:30 a.m., we’ll set out on a tour of the most iconic sites in the Sacred Valley of the Incas!

   Before departure, remember to check out of your hotel in Cusco. Leave your luggage at the front desk and bring only a backpack for greater comfort during the trip.

   🔹 1st Stop – Pisac Archaeological Complex

   Our first stop will be the impressive ruins in the town of Pisac, famous for its enormous agricultural terraces, ceremonial temples, and lookouts offering spectacular views of the Sacred Valley.

   🔹 2nd Stop – Lunch in the town of Urubamba

   We’ll take a break to enjoy authentic Andean cuisine at a local restaurant.

   🔹 3rd Stop – Ollantaytambo Archaeological Complex

   In the afternoon, we’ll explore the imposing complex in the town of Ollantaytambo, an ancient Inca fortress and ceremonial center. Its monumental walls and stone streets preserve the grandeur of this gem of ancient engineering.

   🔹 4th Stop – Ollantaytambo Train Station

   The experience gets even more magical!

   We’ll drop you off at the train station for one of the most memorable journeys in Peru.

   The trip takes about 2 hours and winds through valleys, rivers, and mountains, revealing breathtaking scenery at every turn.

   A natural spectacle that will take you to Aguas Calientes, the charming town nestled at the foot of this wonder of the world.

   🔹 5th Stop – Aguas Calientes

   Upon arrival at the Aguas Calientes train station, our partner will be waiting for you at the exit to accompany you to your hotel and provide you with all the details about the next day’s long-awaited experience: the unforgettable visit to Machu Picchu.

   📍 Overnight Stay: Hotel in Aguas Calientes 🏨

4. Day 4Águas Calientes - Machu Picchu – Cusco.

   🌄 Your day will begin early, filled with anticipation and excitement. At the agreed-upon time, you’ll head to the boarding point, where the tour bus will wind its way up through the Andean mountains toward the entrance to the legendary Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

   ✨ Exploring Machu Picchu

   Get ready for one of the most magnificent moments of your life.
   Accompanied by our expert guide, you’ll spend approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes exploring stone temples, ceremonial plazas, suspended agricultural terraces, and breathtaking viewpoints.

   Each explanation will reveal the spiritual, astronomical, and historical secrets that make Machu Picchu a true Wonder of the World.

   More than just a visit, it’s a profound encounter with the ancestral wisdom of the Incas and the sacred energy of the mountains surrounding this mystical place.

   ☕ Return to Aguas Calientes

   After the tour, the bus will take you back to charming Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have free time to relax, have lunch at one of the local restaurants, and enjoy the unique atmosphere of this town located at the foot of Machu Picchu.

   🚂 The Train Ride—A Spectacle in Its Own Right

   At the scheduled time, head to the train station (arrive 30 minutes early).
   The return trip to Ollantaytambo is a true treat: the train glides smoothly between towering mountains, crystal-clear rivers, and the lush greenery of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

   A moving spectacle that turns the trip into an unforgettable experience.

   🚐 From Ollantaytambo to Cusco

   Upon arrival, your transfer will be waiting to take you back to Cusco on a trip lasting approximately 2 hours.

   When you arrive at the hotel, you’ll be left with just one feeling: the certainty that you’ve experienced a magical day at Machu Picchu—an experience that will remain in your memory forever.

   📍 Overnight: Hotel in Cusco 🏨

5. Day 5Departure From Cusco

   ☀️ After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, enjoy your last few hours in this magical city to say goodbye at your own pace and capture unforgettable memories 📸.

   If time allows, you can explore some charming, free tourist attractions in the historic center, such as:

   🏛️ Plaza de Armas, the beating heart of Cusco.
   🪨 The 12-Angled Stone, on Hatun Rumiyoc Street.
   🌿 Plaza de San Blas and the San Blas Viewpoint, with beautiful views of the city.
   ⛪ San Cristóbal Church, with its bells and panoramic viewpoint.
   💧 The Sapantiana Colonial Aqueduct, a hidden treasure.
   🌸 Siete Borreguitos Street, charming and lined with flowers.
   ⛲ Tricentenario Square, steeped in history.
   🛍️ San Pedro Market, perfect for shopping and sampling local flavors.

   ✨ For those with extra time before their flight, it’s worth taking a taxi to the outskirts of the city to visit:

   ✝️ Cristo Blanco, which blesses Cusco from above.
   🌲 Eucalyptus Forest, perfect for breathing fresh air and enjoying nature.

   🚌 At the agreed-upon time, our team will be ready to accompany you to the airport, ensuring you arrive 2 hours and 30 minutes before your flight ✈️.

   More than just luggage, you’ll be taking home unforgettable moments, unique experiences, and the vibrant energy of the Andes—all of which will remain forever in your memory and heart 💫.

   Cusco isn’t just a destination—it’s a transformative experience! 🌄✨

What's included

What to bring

• Bring personal documents (passport or national ID)
• Students must bring a current student ID from their university
• Sunscreen during the sunny season
• Insect repellent for Machu Picchu
• Raincoat or poncho during the rainy season
• Clothing suitable for cold weather
• Extra battery for your camera
• Purchase your travel insurance here
• Portuguese-language guide service
• Private service
• Option to choose other hotels
• VISTADOME OBSERVATORY TRAIN (additional): for a more immersive experience, featuring panoramic windows, background music, live dance, and traditional performances. Includes an observatory bar car and a balcony with spectacular views. Additional round trip: US$ 94
• Additional one-way trip: US$ 79
• HUAYNA PICCHU MOUNTAIN (optional): One of Machu Picchu’s most iconic attractions, offering a challenging hike with breathtaking panoramic views. Book in advance, as spots are limited. Additional cost: US$ 70

Frequently asked questions

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