Splendid Cusco. 8D/7N

Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, beckons travelers with its rich cultural heritage and captivating landscapes. "Splendid Cusco. 8D/7N" offers an immersive journey through this vibrant city, unveiling iconic sites, exploring the Sacred Valley, and marveling at the wonder of Machu Picchu. From local markets to stunning natural beauty, this comprehensive tour promises to leave a lasting impression on those seeking to uncover the essence of Peru.

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Key Points

Explore the historical and architectural wonders of Cusco, including the impressive Inca sites of Qoricancha, Sacsayhuaman, and Ollantaytambo.
Immerse in the vibrant culture of the Sacred Valley, visiting the colorful Pisac Market and experiencing the scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes.
Witness the magnificent Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, with a guided tour and ample time for personal exploration.
Venture to the serene Humantay Lagoon, surrounded by majestic Andean peaks, and enjoy a buffet lunch.
Discover the ancient Inca salt mines of Maras and the enigmatic circular terraces of Moray, providing insights into the region’s cultural and agricultural heritage.

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Arrival & City Tour

On the first day, the tour begins with an airport pickup upon your arrival in Cusco.

The city tour highlights Qoricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay.

Qoricancha, the Inca’s principal temple, features the magnificent Sun Temple.

Qoricancha, the Inca’s principal temple, features the magnificent Sun Temple, a testament to the empire’s architectural and religious grandeur.

At Sacsayhuaman, you’ll discover the impressive Inca stone fortress.

The tour ends around 6:30 PM, giving you time to explore Cusco’s charming plazas and markets on your own.

This first day sets the stage for the adventure ahead, immersing you in the rich history and culture of this remarkable Andean city.

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Sacred Valley

The second day of the tour takes guests on an exciting journey through the Sacred Valley.

The day begins with hotel pick-up between 7:00 – 8:00 AM. Travelers will visit the iconic Pisac Market, known for its colorful Andean handicrafts.

After a delicious buffet lunch in Urubamba, the group heads to the ancient Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo. Here, they’ll explore the impressive stone ruins and learn about the Inca’s impressive engineering feats.

The day concludes with a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu

After the scenic train ride, travelers arrive in Aguas Calientes, the gateway to the iconic Machu Picchu. The tour includes a morning bus to the archaeological site and a guided tour. Visitors can explore the ancient Inca citadel, marveling at its impeccable stonework and breathtaking vistas. A buffet lunch is provided on-site.

| Tour Highlights | Duration |

| — | — |

| Guided Tour | 2-3 hours |

| Exploring Machu Picchu | As desired |

| Lunch | 1 hour |

Following the visit, the tour returns to Ollantaytambo by train, with a transfer back to Cusco to conclude the day’s activities.

Humantay Lagoon

Following the visit to the iconic Machu Picchu, the tour shifts focus to another stunning natural wonder – the Humantay Lagoon.

Departing Cusco at 4-5 AM, the group travels to Mollepata for breakfast before embarking on a 2-hour hike to the vibrant turquoise waters of the lagoon.

Surrounded by the Andes’ majestic peaks, visitors can take in the serene beauty and snap photos.

A buffet lunch is provided before returning to Cusco by 6 PM.

This excursion offers a chance to witness the region’s natural splendor beyond the famous Machu Picchu.

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Maras and Moray Salt Mines

On the fifth day, the tour shifts focus to the renowned Maras and Moray Salt Mines.

The day begins with a hotel pick-up between 8:00-9:00 AM, followed by a visit to the picturesque Maras salt mines. This ancient salt-harvesting site features thousands of salt pools, each carefully maintained by local families.

After exploring the salt mines, the tour moves on to the mysterious Moray, an Inca archaeological site featuring massive circular terraces believed to have been used for agricultural experimentation.
The afternoon is left free for travelers to explore the charming city of Cusco at their own pace.

This day provides a unique glimpse into the region’s rich cultural and agricultural heritage.

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Mountain of Colors

The sixth day of the tour takes travelers to the breathtaking Mountain of Colors, also known as Vinicunca. This hike offers stunning views of the multicolored mountain ridges, ranging from vibrant reds and yellows to deep blues and greens. Hikers depart their hotel between 4:00-5:00 AM for a hearty breakfast in Tintinco before embarking on the 2-hour trek. Along the way, they’re treated to a spectacular panorama of the Cusco region. After reaching the summit, a buffet lunch is served before the return trip to Cusco, arriving by 5:00 PM.

|———–|————–|————|——–|

| 4:00-5:00 AM | 2 hours | Multicolored mountain ridges | 5:00 PM |

Ausangate 7 Lagoons

The seventh day of the tour takes explorers to the Ausangate 7 Lagoons, a stunning natural wonder nestled in the Cusco region.

The Ausangate 7 Lagoons, a stunning natural wonder nestled in the Cusco region, are the focus of the tour’s seventh day.

Departing between 4:00 – 5:00 AM, the day begins with a hearty breakfast in Pacchanta before embarking on a 5-hour hike.

Witness the breathtaking turquoise waters of the 7 lagoons, each one a unique shade of blue.
Spot Andean wildlife like alpacas, vicuñas, and condors soaring overhead.

Enjoy a well-deserved lunch in Pacchanta before the return journey to Cusco, arriving between 6:30 – 7:00 PM.

Departure

After the conclusion of the Ausangate 7 Lagoons excursion, the final day 8 is dedicated to the traveler’s departure. The day begins with a transfer to the airport, ensuring a smooth and efficient journey home. The itinerary provides the necessary details to plan a seamless exit from Cusco.

| Departure Details |

| — | — | — | — |

With the Splendid Cusco tour now complete, travelers leave with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of this remarkable region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book This Tour for a Group of 20 People?

The tour group size is limited to 15 participants. If you have a group of 20, you’ll need to book two separate tours or inquire about the possibility of a customized tour to accommodate the larger group size.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?

The tour has a free cancellation policy – you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t offer any special discounts for students or seniors. However, the tour provides a flexible cancellation policy, allowing participants to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Can I Extend My Stay in Cusco After the Tour Ends?

Yes, you can extend your stay in Cusco after the tour ends. The tour operator can assist you in booking additional nights at your hotel or arranging extended activities, subject to availability and additional fees.

Do I Need a Visa to Participate in This Tour?

Whether a visa is required for this tour depends on the traveler’s nationality. Most nationalities don’t need a visa to visit Peru for stays under 90 days. It’s best to check visa requirements with your local embassy or consulate before booking the tour.

The Sum Up

This 8-day Cusco tour provides an immersive exploration of Peru’s cultural and natural wonders. Travelers will visit iconic sites, discover the Sacred Valley, witness the majesty of Machu Picchu, and explore stunning natural landscapes. With ample time for personal discovery, this comprehensive itinerary promises unforgettable memories in the vibrant city of Cusco and the surrounding region.

You can check availability for your dates here: