6-Day Tour of Cusco and Machu Picchu

The 6-Day Tour of Cusco and Machu Picchu is a captivating journey through the heart of the Inca Empire. Travelers can expect to enjoy the region’s rich cultural heritage, explore iconic archaeological sites, and witness the breathtaking beauty of the Andes. From the ancient fortress of Sacsayhuaman to the enigmatic Maras salt mines, this comprehensive tour promises to unveil the secrets of the Sacred Valley. But the true highlight lies in the awe-inspiring citadel of Machu Picchu, where visitors can unravel the mysteries of the Inca civilization. With a focus on authenticity and attention to detail, this tour offers an unforgettable experience that will leave lasting impressions.

Key Points

1. This 6-day tour provides an immersive experience exploring Inca history and culture, focusing on key archaeological sites like Cusco, Sacsayhuaman, and Machu Picchu.

2. The tour includes guided group tours, transportation, lodging, and daily breakfast, with a 92% traveler recommendation rating.

3. Highlights include a visit to the ancient Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo and a train journey to Machu Picchu for a comprehensive guided tour of the iconic site.

4. The itinerary also covers cultural and agricultural highlights, such as the Maras Salt Mines and Moray Terraces, providing unique insights into the region’s historical practices.

5. The tour has a non-refundable policy, requires a minimum of 2 travelers, and is operated by Kantu Peru Tours, which has received positive feedback for punctuality and guide helpfulness.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This 6-day tour of Cusco and Machu Picchu allows travelers to explore the rich Inca history and culture of the region.

With 92% traveler recommendation, the tour features highlights such as the archaeological sites of Cusco, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, and Puca Pucara, as well as visits to Pisac, Moray, and the iconic Machu Picchu.

Travelers will learn about Inca history and culture from knowledgeable guides.

The tour includes lodging, transportation, group tours, entrance fees, and daily breakfast.

While food, drinks, flights, and gratuities are excluded, the tour provides a comprehensive experience to discover the wonders of Cusco and Machu Picchu.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes 5 nights’ accommodation in a 2-star hotel, as well as transportation via expedition train to Machu Picchu.

Group service tours are provided throughout the itinerary. However, the tour excludes flights, food and drinks (unless specified), and gratuities.

Travelers should be aware that the tour is non-refundable, and cancellation leads to no refund.

The tour is operated by Kantu Peru Tours and is likely to sell out, so early booking is recommended.

While the majority of reviews are positive, some concerns have been raised about the basic hotel accommodations, though optional upgrades may be available.

Arrival in Cusco

Travelers arrive at the Velazco Astete Airport in Cusco, where they’re picked up and transferred to their hotel.

After checking in, they’ve time to rest and enjoy a light lunch.

In the afternoon, the tour begins with a city excursion that showcases Cusco’s highlights. Guides lead the group through the Qorikancha, an impressive Inca temple, and the impressive Sacsayhuaman fortress, known for its massive stone architecture.

Other key sites include the ruins of Q’enqo, the military outpost of Puca Pucara, and the water temple of Tambomachay.

This introductory tour provides an engaging overview of Cusco’s rich history and culture.

Sacred Valley and Aguas Calientes

On day two, the group ventures into the Sacred Valley, starting with a visit to the historic town of Pisac.

They explore the famous market and ruins before continuing to Urubamba for lunch.

Next, they head to the ancient Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo, marveling at the impressive stonework.

After, the group boards a train to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu.

They check into their hotel for the night, anticipating the guided tour of the Inca citadel the following day.

Machu Picchu Tour

Early on the third day, the group boards a bus that takes them up the winding road to the magnificent Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

During the guided tour, travelers learn about the site’s key features, such as:

• The quarry, where Inca builders sourced stone for construction
• The Temple of the Sun, a sacred structure aligned with solstices
• The main square, the heart of the ancient city
• The sundial, an ingenious Inca timepiece
• The terraced agricultural fields that fed the Inca population

After the tour, the group returns by train to Ollantaytambo, then transfers back to their hotel in Cusco.

Maras, Moray, and Salinas

With the day’s Machu Picchu exploration behind them, the group now sets off to uncover the wonders of Maras, Moray, and Salinas.

First, they’ll visit Chinchero, a picturesque Andean village known for its colorful textiles and well-preserved Inca ruins.

Next, they’ll explore the Moray Terraces, a series of concentric agricultural terraces that some believe were used for crop experimentation.

Finally, they’ll tour the Maras Salt Mines, where salt has been harvested from an underground spring for centuries.

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

Rainbow Mountain

The early morning pickup whisks the group away from Cusco, headed towards the breathtaking Vinincunca Rainbow Mountain. The hike to the 16,732-foot peak promises stunning views of the multicolored slopes.

Along the way, the group:

• Stops for a hearty breakfast in Cusipata to fuel the ascent
• Navigates the challenging terrain, with the guide offering encouragement and tips
• Admires the striking contrast of the rainbow-hued earth against the snow-capped peaks
• Takes breaks to catch their breath and soak in the serene, high-altitude landscape
• Reaches the summit, rewarded with panoramic vistas of the Andean mountains.

After the descent, the group returns to Cusco, reflecting on the unforgettable experience of conquering Rainbow Mountain.

Departure and Logistics

Departing Cusco for the airport, the group transfers based on their scheduled flight times. The tour includes transportation to the Velazco Astete Airport.

This 6-day tour has a maximum of 18 travelers, with a minimum of 2 people required per booking. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so confirmation is needed at the time of booking.

It’s a non-refundable tour, and any cancellation leads to no refund. Operated by Kantu Peru Tours, the tour is likely to sell out quickly.

Travelers have provided positive feedback on the tour’s punctuality and the helpfulness of the guides, though some have expressed concerns about the basic hotel accommodations, with optional upgrades available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Physical Disabilities?

Based on the information provided, the tour does not appear to be wheelchair accessible. The itinerary includes hiking and navigating uneven terrain, which may pose challenges for travelers with physical disabilities. Confirmation of accessibility is recommended at the time of booking.

Can We Book the Tour for a Single Traveler?

Yes, the tour can accommodate solo travelers. However, the minimum booking requirement is 2 people per booking. Travelers booking solo would need to find another person to join them in order to complete the reservation.

Is It Possible to Extend the Tour for Additional Days?

Yes, the tour can be extended for additional days. According to the tour details, the minimum booking is for 2 people, but the maximum is 18 travelers, suggesting flexibility to customize the itinerary for individual needs.

What Is the Dress Code for the Hike to Rainbow Mountain?

The dress code for the hike to Rainbow Mountain is casual and practical. Hikers should wear layered clothing, sturdy hiking boots, and bring sun protection as the high elevation can be quite cold and exposed. Comfortable, moisture-wicking fabrics are recommended.

Can We Make Special Dietary Requests for the Included Meals?

Travelers can make special dietary requests for the included meals on this tour. The tour operator is willing to accommodate various dietary needs with advance notice, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options.

Recap

The 6-day Cusco and Machu Picchu tour offers travelers a comprehensive culture. Visitors will explore Inca ruins, hike through breathtaking landscapes, and gain insights from knowledgeable guides. With high traveler recommendation, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through Peru’s rich heritage, culminating in the iconic Rainbow Mountain hike. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking an in-depth discovery of the Sacred Valley and its remarkable Inca legacy.