Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the heart of the Inca Empire with Machu Picchu Sanctuary Travel’s exclusive Cusco Traditional Journey. Over the course of five exhilarating days, this meticulously crafted tour offers a deep dive into the rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes of Peru.
Thus, this journey is a perfect blend of historical exploration, cultural immersion, and awe-inspiring natural beauty, designed to provide an enriching experience that will linger in your memory long after you return home.
Begin your journey in the ancient city of Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire and a UNESCO World Heritage site. With its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and vibrant local markets, Cusco is a living museum where history comes alive at every turn. Therefore, as you wander through the city, you’ll be captivated by its unique blend of Inca and Spanish influences, visible in its grand cathedrals, archaeological sites, and bustling plazas.
The Sacred Valley of the Incas, a fertile region that was once the heartland of the Inca civilization, is the next stop on your journey. Thus, this lush valley, flanked by towering Andean peaks, is dotted with picturesque villages, terraced fields, and ancient ruins.
Here, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the remnants of the Inca Empire, gaining insight into the sophisticated agricultural practices and architectural prowess of this remarkable civilization. The Sacred Valley is also a place of profound natural beauty, where the tranquil flow of the Urubamba River and the verdant landscape create a serene and inspiring backdrop for your exploration.
No visit to Peru would be complete without a pilgrimage to Machu Picchu. Nestled high in the Andes Mountains, this enigmatic site continues to captivate visitors with its mysterious beauty and breathtaking vistas.
As you traverse the stone pathways of Machu Picchu, you’ll be transported back in time, marveling at the ingenuity and vision of the Inca builders. Thus, the sense of wonder and reverence you feel while standing among the ruins of this ancient citadel is an experience that words can scarcely capture.
The journey also includes visits to the Maras Salt Mines and the agricultural terraces of Moray. The Maras Salt Mines, with their hundreds of terraced salt pools, offer a fascinating glimpse into the region’s traditional salt-harvesting techniques that have been passed down through generations. Meanwhile, the concentric terraces of Moray reveal the Inca’s advanced understanding of agriculture and their innovative approach to farming in the challenging Andean environment.
Throughout the Cusco Traditional Journey, Machu Picchu Sanctuary Travel ensures that every aspect of your trip is thoughtfully curated to provide a seamless and enriching experience. With expert guides to illuminate the history and culture of each destination, comfortable accommodations, and carefully planned itineraries, you can relax and immerse yourself fully in the wonders of Peru.
Join us on this remarkable five-day journey and discover the magic of Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Maras, and Moray. So, let Machu Picchu Sanctuary Travel be your guide to the treasures of the Inca Empire, where every moment is an opportunity to connect with the past and marvel at the timeless beauty of this extraordinary land.
Cusco hotel transfer.
Early in the morning.
Welcome to Cusco! Upon arrival, our staff will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Then, take some time to acclimate to the altitude before enjoying the famous city tour in the afternoon. Thus, this tour will take you through the rich history of Cusco, from the time of the Incas, the Spanish conquest, to the present day.
First, you’ll visit the impressive colonial Cathedral and the Koricancha, the Temple of the Sun, whose walls were once covered with solid gold sheets looted by the Spanish.
Afterwards, you will explore four archaeological sites located just outside the city: Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Pucapucara, and Tambomachay.
Overnight: Cusco.
Today, we will head to the famous Sacred Valley. On the way, we will make a short stop at an impressive viewpoint of the Sacred Valley.
Our excursion begins in the Archaeological Site of Pisac, which showcases the remarkable work of the Incas. Pisac is surrounded by spectacular landscapes and majestic, almost endless agricultural terraces. After exploring the Archaeological Site of Pisac, we will descend to the rustic Andean village of Pisac. Then, we will follow the crowds to the traditional Andean Market, where vibrant stalls line the streets, offering hand-knit woolens, trinkets, and alpaca clothing.
Afterwards, we will stop at a restaurant for a buffet lunch. Later, we will visit the impressive Inca site in Ollantaytambo, an ancient complex of temples and terraces towering high over the valley. You will then head to Ollantaytambo’s train station to board the train to Aguas Calientes. The passenger railroad cars have panoramic windows, offering enhanced scenic views. Finally, upon arrival, you will check into your hotel in Aguas Calientes for the night.
This day promises to be unforgettable and thrilling as you explore the mystical ancient citadel of Machu Picchu. Early in the morning, take a bus up to the legendary Lost City of the Incas. Upon arrival, you’ll be captivated by the site’s highlights, including the steep terraces, the imposing Temple of the Sun, mausoleums, squares, royal houses, and the looming cliffs, all of which underscore why Machu Picchu is considered one of the natural wonders of the world.
After the guided tour, you can choose to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (the tickets to these mountains must be purchased ahead of time). Following the tour, take some time to wander through the ruins at your own pace. Finally, in the afternoon, board the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a transfer to your hotel in Cusco.
Today, you will embark on a journey to discover impressive places surrounded by spectacular landscapes. First, this morning tour begins with a visit to the Andean village of Chinchero, known for its adobe brick houses, locals in traditional attires, and weaving centers showcasing ancient techniques.
Next, we will continue to Moray, where you can marvel at the grandeur of the circular terraces. These terraces, once used by the Incas as an agricultural laboratory, were designed to grow various crops at different microclimates.
Finally, we will visit the Maras Salt Mines, located on a wide-open hill above the Urubamba Valley. Here, salty water emerges from a spring and is drained into ancient ponds, where it evaporates under the sun, leaving behind salt that is harvested by the locals.
After this enriching experience, we will return to your hotel in Cusco.
After your Cusco Traditional Journey comes to a close, enjoy breakfast before we transfer you to the airport for your onward flight.
Note: Due to the high elevation, travel in the Peruvian highlands may cause temporary altitude sickness in some passengers. Thus, if you have concerns about traveling to higher elevations, please consult your healthcare provider.
The best time to visit Cusco is during the dry season, from May to November, when the weather is sunny and the chances of rain are minimal.
Cusco sits at an elevation of 3,399 meters (11,152 feet). To acclimate, it’s recommended to spend the first day or two taking it easy, avoiding strenuous activities, and staying hydrated. Drinking coca tea, which is readily available, can also help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness.
Pisac is famous for its impressive archaeological site, which includes terraces, temples, and a complex of ruins. The Pisac market, one of the largest and most colorful in the region, is also a must-visit. It’s best to visit the market on the weekend, when it is most vibrant.
You can travel from Cusco to Ollantaytambo by bus. The bus ride take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
Moray is unique for its circular terraces that were used by the Incas for agricultural experimentation. The site consists of several concentric terraces, each with a different microclimate, which allowed the Incas to grow a variety of crops at different altitudes. It’s a fascinating example of Inca ingenuity in agriculture.
The Maras Salt Mines, or Salineras de Maras, are a series of thousands of small salt pools that have been used since pre-Inca times. The salt is harvested from a natural underground spring that flows through a complex system of channels into the terraced pools. The water evaporates, leaving behind salt crystals that are harvested by local families.
Before visiting Machu Picchu, it’s important to book your tickets in advance, as entry is limited. There are different types of tickets, including access to Machu Picchu only, Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu, and Machu Picchu + Machu Picchu Mountain. Arriving early in the morning can help you avoid crowds. It’s also recommended to bring water, snacks, and wear comfortable walking shoes.
Yes, guided tours are available at all the Cusco archaeological sites. Hiring a local guide can enrich your visit by providing detailed historical and cultural context. Many tours can be arranged in advance through travel agencies or booked on-site. Guided tours are especially recommended for complex sites like Machu Picchu, Ollantaytambo, and Moray.
Cusco and the Sacred Valley offer a variety of delicious traditional dishes to try. Some must-try foods include:
Exploring the local cuisine adds a rich cultural dimension to your visit to Cusco and the Sacred Valley.
Cusco is a fascinating city. This tour is perfect for learning about the Inca history.