Cusco : Sacred Valley – Machu Picchu – Humantay Lake / 6D

Adventurous explorers seeking to uncover the ancient wonders of Peru's Inca empire will be captivated by this 6-day journey through Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and the stunning Humantay Lake.

Set out on a captivating 6-day adventure through the heart of Peru’s ancient Inca empire. Discover the enchanting landscapes of Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and the iconic Machu Picchu, culminating in the stunning Humantay Lake. This immersive tour blends guided explorations of historic ruins, vibrant local culture, and the majestic Andes. With personalized attention and both English and Spanish-speaking guides, you’ll uncover the rich heritage that makes this region so alluring. What awaits as you venture through this captivating destination?

Key Points

  • A 6-day guided tour through Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu, priced from $600 per person with a maximum group size of 15.
  • Includes airport transfers, transportation, guided tours, entrance fees, and select meals, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
  • Highlights include a city tour of Cusco, exploration of the Sacred Valley, a guided tour of Machu Picchu, and a visit to Moray and Maras salt mines.
  • Offers live guides in Spanish and English, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
  • Not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with heart problems, or wheelchair users, and requires certain recommended items for the trip.
You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This tour is a 6-day journey that takes travelers through the sacred wonders of Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and the iconic Machu Picchu.

Priced from $600 per person, the tour has a group size limited to 15 participants and offers live guides in Spanish and English.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.

The tour includes airport transfers, transportation, guided tours, entrance fees, and select meals.

Exclusions cover international flights, personal expenses, and accommodations.

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women, those with heart issues, or wheelchair users.

Itinerary Highlights

On the first day, the tour begins with a pick-up at the airport and a transfer to the hotel.

In the afternoon, the city tour includes visits to:

  1. Koricancha, the ancient Inca temple

  2. Sacsayhuaman, the impressive Inca fortress

  3. Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay, other Inca archaeological sites

The day concludes by returning to Cusco by 7:00 p.m.

The next day starts with a Sacred Valley exploration, including the Pisaq ruins and a buffet lunch in Urubamba, followed by a train ride to Aguas Calientes for an overnight stay.

Day 1: Arrival and City Tour

The tour begins with a pick-up at the airport, where participants are transferred to their hotel.

In the afternoon, the group embarks on a city tour, exploring Koricancha, the Inca Sun Temple, and the impressive ruins of Sacsayhuaman.

They also visit Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay, important archaeological sites around Cusco.

The tour ensures participants experience the highlights of the city before 7:00 p.m. when they return to their accommodations, energized for the adventures that lie ahead in the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.

Day 2: Sacred Valley Exploration

Participants rise early at 8:00 a.m. for the Sacred Valley tour, ready to explore the region’s rich cultural heritage.

The itinerary includes:

  1. Visiting the Pisaq ruins, a well-preserved Inca archaeological site known for its intricate terraced agriculture and religious structures.

  2. Enjoying a buffet lunch in the town of Urubamba, surrounded by the stunning Andean scenery.

  3. Boarding a train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to the iconic Machu Picchu, where they’ll spend the night in preparation for the next day’s exploration of the ancient citadel.

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Day 3: Machu Picchu Visit

With an early morning start, participants board a bus that takes them to the entrance of Machu Picchu, the legendary Inca citadel.

Their guide leads them on a 2.5-hour tour, revealing the history and significance of this iconic UNESCO World Heritage site. Participants marvel at the impressive stone structures, terraced gardens, and sweeping valley views.

A 2.5-hour guided tour unveiling the history and grandeur of the iconic Machu Picchu, showcasing its impressive stone structures, gardens, and sweeping vistas.

After the guided tour, they’ve free time to explore the ruins independently before returning to Aguas Calientes for lunch.

The group then boards the train back to Cusco, ending a day filled with the splendor of one of the world’s most extraordinary archaeological sites.

Day 4: Moray and Salt Mines

After their visit to the iconic Machu Picchu, the group moves on to explore the fascinating Moray and salt mines.

They’re picked up at 8:00 a.m. for the day’s adventure.

The highlights include:

  1. A guided tour of the unique Moray ruins, an archaeological site featuring large circular terraces believed to have been an Inca agricultural experiment site.

  2. A visit to the nearby Maras salt mines, where salt has been harvested from mountain springs since Inca times.

  3. Return to Cusco by approximately 3:00 p.m., with ample time to rest before the next day’s activities.

Day 5: Rainbow Mountain Adventure

Departing at 4:00 a.m., the group heads to Tintinco for breakfast before embarking on the hike to Montaña de Colores, also known as Rainbow Mountain.

The strenuous 2-hour and 30-minute trek takes them to an elevation of 5,020 meters (16,500 feet), offering breathtaking views of the multicolored mountain landscape.

Along the way, guides provide insights into the geological and cultural significance of this natural wonder.

After reaching the summit, the group enjoys a buffet lunch before returning to Cusco, arriving around 6:30 p.m.

This adventure offers a chance to witness one of Peru’s most stunning natural attractions.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes airport/bus terminal pick-up, transport for the City Tour, Sacred Valley, Maras, and Moray, as well as professional guides for all tours.

Buffet lunches during the Sacred Valley and Humantay Lake tours are also provided, along with entrance fees to all archaeological sites.

However, the tour excludes:

  1. International flights

  2. Meals not mentioned in the itinerary

  3. Personal expenses and hotel accommodations

It’s important to note that the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with heart problems, or wheelchair users.

Participants are recommended to bring their passport/ID, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and personal medication.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Options for Solo Travelers?

Yes, the tour offers options for solo travelers. The group size is limited to 15 participants, providing a small and intimate experience. Solo travelers can book their own spot without the need for a group.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized. Travelers can work with the tour operator to adjust the schedule and activities based on their interests and preferences. There’s flexibility to personalize the experience within the 6-day tour.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tours?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable, layered clothing and sturdy walking shoes are recommended. Avoid wearing flip-flops or high heels as the terrain can be uneven. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and rain gear, if needed.

Are There Any Restrictions on Luggage Size?

The tour doesn’t have any specific restrictions on luggage size. However, it’s recommended to pack light and bring only essentials, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking and navigating between various sites.

Is There Wi-Fi Available During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t provide Wi-Fi during the activities. However, most hotels and hostels in Cusco and Aguas Calientes offer reliable Wi-Fi access for guests to stay connected throughout the journey.

The Sum Up

This 6-day journey through Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu offers an immersive exploration of Peru’s enchanting landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Culminating at the stunning Humantay Lake, this tour promises unforgettable memories and a personalized experience for a maximum of 15 travelers. With live guides in English and Spanish, this adventure connects visitors to Peru’s captivating history and natural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: