Classic Cusco - 8 Days

Overview

CLASSIC CUSCO — Culture, history, and Machu Picchu An itinerary for those wishing to discover the main charms of Cusco at a more relaxed pace, without strenuous hiking. Ideal for enjoying Machu Picchu...

1. Day 1ARRIVAL IN CUSCO AND ACCLIMATIZATION

   As soon as you leave the airport, our private car will be waiting to welcome you and take you to your hotel in comfort and safety.

   This is a free day, designed specifically for you to rest after your journey and allow your body to gently adjust to the altitude of Cusco, located approximately 3,400 meters above sea level.

   No rush, no obligations: take the time to rest, stay hydrated, and begin to soak up the magical atmosphere of the Andes.

2. Day 2ANDEAN WOMEN, MORAY, AND THE MARAS SALT MINES

   After breakfast, around 8:30 AM, we will depart from Cusco for the Valley—a lower-altitude region perfect for a leisurely day.

   Our first stop will be with the Andean women, where you will learn about the traditional wool-making process—from washing and dyeing to spinning and weaving fabrics adorned with geometric patterns that reflect the Andean worldview and harmony with nature.

   Next, we will visit Moray, an impressive archaeological site featuring circular terraces, followed by the Maras Salt Mines, home to hundreds of salt pools built into the mountainside by the Incas—pools that remain in use to this day.

   After these visits, we will return to Cusco, arriving at Regozijo Square around 3:00 PM, leaving the rest of the afternoon free for you to rest or explore the city at your own pace

3. Day 3SACRED VALLEY AND AGUAS CALIENTES

   Check out of your hotel; we recommend taking only a backpack with the essentials for your overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, while your larger luggage remains in Cusco.

   After breakfast, around 7:30 AM, we will head to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, starting with the enchanting Pisac Archaeological Complex, where we will learn about Andean culture and history.

   Next, we will travel to Urubamba for a lunch break before continuing to Ollantaytambo, one of the most impressive and well-preserved Inca towns in the Sacred Valley.

   At the scheduled time, you will board the train to Aguas Calientes, the charming town at the foot of Machu Picchu.

   Upon arrival, our team will be waiting at the station to welcome you and escort you to your hotel, ensuring your peace of mind and safety.

4. Day 4MACHU PICCHU AND RETURN TO CUSCO

   The highlight of the trip has arrived! In the morning, we will head to Machu Picchu, accompanied by a professional guide who will lead you through the sanctuary and share all the details about this incredible city built by the Incas.

   During the visit, you will learn more about the history and architecture of Machu Picchu, the impressive agricultural terraces, the ancient structures, the temples, the ceremonial areas, and how the Incas made the most of the natural landscape and the mountain's strategic location.

   After the tour, you will return to Aguas Calientes, where you will have free time for lunch before catching the train back to Cusco. You will take home not only beautiful photos but also the unforgettable experience of having visited one of the world's greatest wonders!

5. Day 5ARCHAEOLOGICAL CITY TOUR

   At approximately 8:45 AM, we will begin our Archaeological City Tour, a journey through the history and culture of the ancient Inca Empire.

   We will visit the Temple of Qoricancha—an important Inca religious center—and then head to the impressive archaeological sites on the outskirts of Cusco: Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay.

   During the tour, you will discover structures, temples, and sites that reveal the grandeur of the Inca civilization, all while accompanied by a guide who will share the stories and fascinating details of each location. The tour concludes around 2:00 PM.

6. Day 6CUSCO'S SOUTH VALLEY

   We will pick you up from your hotel around 8:45 AM to visit a region rich in history, culture, and beautiful Andean landscapes.

   We will visit the Tipón Archaeological Site—an impressive complex of Inca canals and agricultural terraces—and Pikillaqta, an ancient city of the Wari culture. We will also visit the charming Church of Andahuaylillas, known as the "Sistine Chapel of the Americas," featuring a richly decorated interior and stunning artworks.

   This experience combines archaeology, architecture, culture, and Andean scenery, taking you off the beaten path of the traditional Cusco circuit. The tour concludes around 3:00 PM.

7. Day 7PALCOYO MOUNTAIN

   Instead of the famous Vinicunca, you will visit Palcoyo Mountain—a charming alternative for taking in the colorful landscapes of the Andes.

   The hike to the viewpoint is shorter and more leisurely, involving an ascent of approximately 20 minutes; it is ideal for those who wish to admire the mountain scenery without tackling an overly demanding trail.

8. Day 8RETURN TO BRAZIL

   The time has come to say goodbye to Cusco!

   At the scheduled time, we will pick you up at your hotel for a comfortable and stress-free transfer to the Cusco airport for your return flight.

   We hope you take home not only wonderful memories but also a desire to return and discover even more of Peru.

What's included

What to bring

• Bring your ID card or passport (the one used to purchase your ticket)
• Wear layered clothing
• Comfortable sneakers
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses
• Insect repellent
• Water
• Snacks
• Motion sickness medication (for winding roads)
• Rain poncho (for the rainy season)
• Cash in Soles
• Backpack for the overnight stay in Aguas Calientes
• Avoid alcoholic beverages
• Avoid raw foods
• Drink only purchased water
• Keep your documents handy at all times

Frequently asked questions

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