From Cusco: Vitcos and Vilcabamba Day Trip

This day trip from Cusco offers an intriguing glimpse into the Inca Empire’s history. Travelers can explore the archaeological site of Vitcos, where Manco Inca II was assassinated, and discover the White Rock with its carved Inca cross. Along the way, they’ll visit a Baroque church in Lucma and enjoy the scenic journey through the Sacred Valley. With comfortable transportation and meals provided, this 19-hour adventure promises to immerse visitors in the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Key Points

• This day trip from Cusco takes visitors to the Inca ruins of Vitcos and the historic town of Vilcabamba, the last stronghold of the Inca Empire.
• The 19-hour tour includes transportation, meals, and an English-speaking guide, providing an immersive cultural experience in the Sacred Valley and Andes Mountains.
• Highlights of the trip include crossing the Abra Malaga Route, exploring Inca ruins, and visiting the colonial Church of St. Peter and St. Paul in Lucma.
• The tour offers flexibility with multiple departure times available from Cusco, ranging from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday.
• Travelers can take advantage of the "Reserve now, pay later" option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview and Pricing

This day trip from Cusco to Vilcabamba is priced at $279.00 per person.

The 19-hour tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a "reserve now, pay later" option.

Pickup from your Cusco hotel starts at 2:00 AM, crossing the Sacred Valley and Abra Malaga Route before descending into Lucumayo Valley.

Your day begins early with pickup from your Cusco hotel at 2:00 AM, crossing the Sacred Valley and Abra Malaga Route before descending into Lucumayo Valley.

After a breakfast stop in Huancacalle, you’ll hike to the Vitcos archaeological site and explore its Inca ruins and ceremonial monuments.

Transportation is provided via minibus or bus, with an English-speaking guide throughout the journey.

Itinerary and Activities

The day trip kicks off with a 2:00 AM pickup from your hotel in Cusco.

You’ll cross the Sacred Valley and ascend the Abra Malaga Route, peaking at 14,160 feet.

Descending through the Lucumayo Valley, you’ll cross the Vilcanota River via the Chaullay Bridge before enjoying a free breakfast in Huancacalle.

The highlights include:

• Hiking to the Vitcos archaeological complex, the site of Manco Inca II’s assassination

• Exploring the pink stone constructions, main square, ceremonial monuments, and the Wanca

• Viewing the White Rock with its carved Inca Cross (Chakana)

You’ll also visit the colonial Church of St. Peter and St. Paul in Lucma before returning to Cusco.

Cultural Highlights

As visitors explore the day trip, they’ll have the opportunity to witness the cultural highlights along the way.

One of the most notable stops is the colonial Church of St. Peter and St. Paul in Lucma. This Baroque-style church was built over an Inca oratory, utilizing materials from the ancient Incahuarakana site. Visitors can observe the impressive bell tower and murals adorning the interior.

Plus, the Vitcos archaeological complex offers a glimpse into the history of the Inca Empire, as it was the site of Manco Inca II’s assassination.

These cultural encounters provide a rich and immersive experience for travelers.

Meals and Transportation

Meals and transportation are included as part of the day trip from Cusco to Vitcos and Vilcabamba.

Breakfast and lunch at a local restaurant are provided, giving you a taste of authentic Peruvian cuisine.

The transportation is handled via a comfortable minibus or bus for the entire duration of the excursion.

An English-speaking guide is also included to enhance your culture and provide insights throughout the journey.

• Fuel your day with a hearty breakfast and lunch.

• Relax and enjoy the ride in a modern, air-conditioned bus.

• Benefit from the expertise of a knowledgeable local guide.

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Booking and Availability

To book your day trip from Cusco to Vitcos and Vilcabamba, you can check the availability for your preferred starting time. Simply select the number of participants and the date you wish to go on the tour. The meeting point is provided on Google Maps for your convenience.

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Exploring Vitcos: Manco Inca II’s Assassination Site

One of the highlights of the day trip is the visit to the Vitcos archaeological complex, the site where the Inca emperor Manco Inca II was assassinated in 1544.

Visitors can explore the pink stone constructions, main square, ceremonial monuments, and the iconic Wanca.

The highlight is the White Rock with its Chakana (Inca cross) carvings, a powerful Inca symbol.

The experience evokes:

• A sense of reverence for the historical significance of the site

• Awe at the impressive Inca architecture and engineering

• Curiosity about the final moments of the last independent Inca ruler

Discovering the White Rock With Inca Cross Carvings

As visitors explore the Vitcos archaeological site, their eyes are inevitably drawn to the captivating White Rock, where intricate Inca cross (Chakana) carvings adorn the surface.

The Chakana, a symbol of the Inca cosmological view, is meticulously carved into the rock, showcasing the ingenuity and spiritual beliefs of the Inca civilization.

The Chakana, a symbol of the Inca cosmological view, is meticulously carved into the rock, showcasing the ingenuity and spiritual beliefs of the Inca civilization.

Tourists can marvel at the intricate details and symbolic significance of these carvings, which serve as a window into the rich cultural heritage of the region.

The White Rock stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Inca people in Vilcabamba.

Visiting the Baroque Church in Lucma

While exploring the Vitcos archaeological site, visitors will have the opportunity to witness the captivating Baroque-style Church of St. Peter and St. Paul in the nearby town of Lucma.

This colonial church was built over an Inca oratory, utilizing materials from the ancient site of Incahuarakana.

The church’s architectural features include:

• A bell tower adorned with Baroque-style elements

• Vibrant mural paintings that adorn the interior walls

• Intricate stone carvings and religious iconography that showcase the blending of Inca and Spanish colonial influences.

This unique cultural experience provides a glimpse into the rich history and heritage of the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Day Trip?

The cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before the trip. Customers can cancel their reservation and receive a full refund if they do so within 24 hours of the scheduled departure time.

Can I Book This Trip for a Group Larger Than 4 People?

Yes, you can book this trip for a group larger than 4 people. The tour operator allows group reservations and provides transportation accommodations for larger groups. Simply select the number of participants during the booking process.

Is Gratuity Included in the Price of the Tour?

Gratuity is not included in the tour price. The price covers the day trip, transportation, meals, and an English-speaking guide. Guests are expected to tip the guide and driver at their discretion for good service.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for This Activity?

There are no age restrictions for this activity. Children are welcome to participate, though parents or guardians should ensure their children can handle the 19-hour duration and demands of the day trip.

Can I Upgrade or Add Any Optional Activities to the Itinerary?

There aren’t any age restrictions, but travelers can upgrade or add optional activities like a private guide or extended hiking at an additional cost. These customizations must be arranged with the tour operator in advance.

The Sum Up

This immersive day trip from Cusco offers an opportunity to explore the captivating Inca ruins and cultural heritage of the region. With comfortable transportation, meals, and guided exploration of historic sites like Vitcos and Vilcabamba, it provides an engaging and educational adventure for those interested in the remarkable legacy of the Inca Empire.

You can check availability for your dates here: