Description
Discover the soul of the Andes with our 5 Days / 4 Nights Cusco Experience, a journey that blends history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes into one unforgettable adventure.
Your experience begins in Cusco, the legendary capital of the Inca Empire, where the past and present coexist in perfect harmony. Walk along narrow cobblestone streets, admire impressive Inca walls, and uncover the city’s treasures—from lively markets to serene colonial plazas.
Travel through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, a region of fertile fields, ancient ruins, and warm-hearted communities. Explore the archaeological wonders of Pisac and Ollantaytambo, while enjoying the stunning Andean scenery that frames every moment.
The highlight awaits at Machu Picchu, the world-famous Lost City of the Incas. With the guidance of an expert, discover the mysteries hidden within its stone structures and sacred terraces, and take time to soak in the majestic views that surround this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Your journey also includes a visit to the Humantay Lagoon, a pristine turquoise lake set against dramatic snow-capped peaks. This rewarding trek offers not only spectacular views but also a profound connection with nature at its purest.
Designed for travelers who value both exploration and personal moments, this itinerary offers a perfect balance—ensuring each day is rich in discovery without ever feeling rushed.
Places to Visit
- Cusco Historical Center
- Cathedral Basilica of Cusco
- Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun)
- Sacsayhuamán Archaeological Site
- Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay
- Pisac Archaeological Site and Handicraft Market
- Urubamba Valley
- Ollantaytambo Fortress
- Machu Picchu Citadel
- Soraypampa
- Humantay Lagoon
Itinerary
Día
Morning
- 08:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. – Arrival at Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco. Our representative will greet you with a warm welcome, assist with your luggage, and provide a private transfer to your hotel located in the historic center.
- 11:00 a.m. – 01:00 p.m. – Hotel check-in and free time for acclimatization to Cusco’s high altitude (3,399 m / 11,152 ft). We recommend resting, drinking coca tea, and moving at a relaxed pace to ensure a comfortable adjustment. If you wish, you can take a gentle walk around the nearby streets to admire the city’s colonial balconies, artisan shops, and lively atmosphere.
Afternoon – City Tour
- 01:30 p.m. – Pick-up from your hotel to begin your guided city tour.
- 01:45 p.m. – 02:30 p.m. – Visit the Cathedral of Cusco, a colonial-era masterpiece adorned with gold-leaf altars, intricate wood carvings, and paintings from the renowned Cusqueña School of Art.
- 02:35 p.m. – 03:10 p.m. – Explore the Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), the most important religious site of the Inca Empire, where masterfully carved stone walls blend seamlessly with the Spanish colonial Church of Santo Domingo.
Excursion to Nearby Archaeological Sites
- 03:30 p.m. – 04:10 p.m. – Sacsayhuamán – A monumental Inca fortress known for its massive stone walls, some weighing over 100 tons, and its commanding views over the city.
- 04:15 p.m. – 04:40 p.m. – Qenqo – A ceremonial site with carved rock formations, passageways, and altars believed to have been used for rituals.
- 04:50 p.m. – 05:10 p.m. – Puka Pukara – A small fortress and military checkpoint guarding the entrance to Cusco.
- 05:15 p.m. – 05:40 p.m. – Tambomachay – Known as the “Bath of the Inca,” featuring aqueducts, canals, and waterfalls that have flowed for centuries.
Evening
- 06:00 p.m. – Return to your hotel in Cusco. Free evening to enjoy dinner at one of the city’s excellent restaurants or take a leisurely evening walk through the illuminated streets.
- Overnight in Cusco.
Día
Morning
- 06:30 a.m. – 07:15 a.m. – Breakfast at your hotel in Cusco. Prepare for a day of exploration through the stunning Sacred Valley of the Incas, a fertile region rich in history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.
- 07:30 a.m. – Pick-up from your hotel and departure towards Pisac, enjoying panoramic views of the Andes and the Vilcanota River along the way. Your guide will share fascinating stories about Inca history, local traditions, and the valley’s strategic importance.
- 08:45 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. – Pisac Archaeological Complex – Explore its remarkable agricultural terraces, ceremonial structures, and watchtowers, while enjoying sweeping views of the Sacred Valley.
- 10:20 a.m. – 11:20 a.m. – Visit the Pisac Traditional Handicraft Market, where artisans display colorful textiles, ceramics, silver jewelry, and other handmade treasures. This is an ideal moment to purchase authentic souvenirs directly from local craftspeople.
Afternoon
- 12:30 p.m. – 01:30 p.m. – Buffet lunch in Urubamba, featuring a variety of Peruvian and international dishes prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
- 01:45 p.m. – 03:15 p.m. – Ollantaytambo Fortress – Discover this imposing Inca military, religious, and agricultural center. Learn about its role in resisting Spanish conquest, and marvel at its massive terraces, intricate stonework, and commanding mountain views.
Evening – Train to Aguas Calientes
- 03:30 p.m. – Transfer to the Ollantaytambo train station.
- 04:30 p.m. – 06:10 p.m. – Scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, gateway to Machu Picchu. Along the route, admire lush valleys, winding rivers, and cloud forests from the train windows.
- 06:15 p.m. – Arrival in Aguas Calientes and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy free time to relax, explore the charming town, or have dinner in one of its cozy restaurants.
Overnight in Aguas Calientes.
Día
Early Morning
- 05:00 a.m. – 05:30 a.m. – Early breakfast at your hotel in Aguas Calientes. Prepare for one of the most anticipated experiences of your journey: visiting the legendary Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
- 05:40 a.m. – Board the shuttle bus for a 25-minute ascent to the entrance of Machu Picchu, passing lush cloud forest landscapes along the way.
Morning – Guided Tour of Machu Picchu
- 06:10 a.m. – 09:10 a.m. – Meet your expert guide at the citadel’s entrance and begin a comprehensive guided tour of this awe-inspiring Inca city. Explore its most iconic sectors:
- The Guardian’s House – A perfect spot for your first panoramic photographs of Machu Picchu.
- The Main Temple – Sacred ceremonial site of the Inca elite.
- The Temple of the Three Windows – Symbolizing the three realms of Inca cosmology.
- The Intihuatana Stone – Believed to be an ancient astronomical clock or calendar.
- Agricultural Terraces – Ingeniously designed to prevent erosion and sustain crops.
- Sacred Rock and Royal Quarters – Key ceremonial and residential areas.
Midday – Free Exploration
-
09:10 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. – Enjoy free time to take photographs, explore at your own pace, or simply absorb the mystical atmosphere. Adventurous travelers may choose to hike to Inti Punku (Sun Gate) or the Inca Bridge (subject to availability and permits).
Afternoon – Return to Cusco
- 11:30 a.m. – Board the shuttle bus back to Aguas Calientes.
- 12:00 p.m. – 02:00 p.m. – Free time for lunch (not included) and last-minute souvenir shopping in Aguas Calientes.
- 02:30 p.m. – 04:10 p.m. – Scenic train journey back to Ollantaytambo.
- 04:15 p.m. – 06:30 p.m. – Private transfer from Ollantaytambo to your hotel in Cusco.
Evening
- 06:30 p.m. – Arrival in Cusco. Free evening to relax or enjoy dinner in the city.
- Overnight in Cusco.
Día
Early Morning
- 04:30 a.m. – 05:00 a.m. – Early breakfast at your hotel in Cusco. Prepare for a day of adventure into the high Andes to witness one of Peru’s most beautiful natural wonders: the Humantay Lagoon.
- 05:00 a.m. – 08:30 a.m. – Scenic drive in a private vehicle to Soraypampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft), passing through picturesque Andean villages, winding mountain roads, and stunning landscapes. Along the way, your guide will share insights into local culture, history, and traditions.
Morning – Trek to Humantay Lagoon
- 08:45 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. – Begin the uphill trek from Soraypampa to Humantay Lagoon (4,200 m / 13,779 ft). The hike, approximately 1.5 hours, follows a well-marked trail surrounded by breathtaking views of the Andes and the towering Salkantay and Humantay snow-capped peaks.
- 10:15 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. – Arrive at the turquoise waters of Humantay Lagoon. Enjoy free time to explore, take photographs, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of this high-altitude paradise. You may choose to walk along the shore or simply sit and appreciate the stunning contrast of emerald-blue waters against the white glaciers above.
Midday – Return to Soraypampa
- 11:30 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. – Trek back down to Soraypampa, retracing your steps and enjoying different perspectives of the Andean landscape.
- 01:00 p.m. – 02:00 p.m. – Lunch en route (included or in a local restaurant, depending on logistics).
Afternoon – Return to Cusco
- 02:00 p.m. – 05:30 p.m. – Drive back to Cusco, arriving in the late afternoon.
- 05:30 p.m. – Arrival at your hotel in Cusco. Free time to relax or explore the city at night.
Overnight in Cusco.
Día
Morning
- 06:00 a.m. – 09:00 a.m. – Breakfast at the hotel. Depending on the departure time of your flight, enjoy some free time for last-minute shopping, short walks through Cusco’s historic streets, or simply relaxing before your journey.
- 2 to 3 hours before flight departure – Private transfer from your hotel to Cusco’s Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport. Your driver will ensure a timely arrival for your check-in and boarding procedures.
End of Services
Includes
- 4 nights of accommodation in selected hotels (with breakfast).
- All transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
- Professional English-speaking guide.
- Entrance tickets to archaeological sites and Machu Picchu.
- Train tickets to and from Aguas Calientes.
- Bus tickets to Machu Picchu.
- Buffet lunch in the Sacred Valley.
- Breakfast and lunch on the Humantay Lagoon excursion.
Does not Include
- Domestic or international flights.
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Travel insurance.
- Personal expenses and tips.
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional, subject to availability).
What to bring
- Carry your original passport for all tours.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing for varying temperatures.
- Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for daytime tours.
- Drink coca tea or stay hydrated to help with altitude adjustment.
- For Humantay Lagoon, bring warm clothing, gloves, and a scarf as temperatures can be very low.
Book Now
Booking in advance is recommended.
Cusco 5D/4N
5D/4N