Cusco: 7 Day Andean Experience of the Living Incas Culture

Discover the Andean heart of Peru on a captivating 7-day journey through the Living Incas Culture of Cusco. Uncover the ancient wonders of Machu Picchu, explore the vibrant Sacred Valley, and learn about the rich traditions of local artisans. This expertly curated itinerary promises an unforgettable experience, blending iconic sights with authentic cultural interactions. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply seeking an enriching adventure, this Cusco experience offers a unique glimpse into the enduring legacy of the Incas.

Key Points

• Immerse in the living heritage of the Andes with a 7-day cultural exploration of Cusco, Peru, focusing on Inca history and traditions.
• Visit iconic Inca sites like Machu Picchu, Sacsayhuaman, and the Sacred Valley, accompanied by an expert English-speaking guide.
• Engage with local artisans, learn traditional textile techniques, and gain insights into Andean culture and spirituality.
• Enjoy a comfortable 3-star hotel accommodation, with select meals and transportation provided, for a hassle-free experience.
• Flexibility with free cancellation and reserve now, pay later options, making it easy to plan and book the Andean adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour offers a comprehensive 7-day exploration of Cusco, Peru, focusing on the rich Inca culture. Priced from $1,699 per person, the small-group experience is limited to 15 participants.

Travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option. Throughout the tour, an English and Spanish-speaking guide will bring the Inca heritage to life.

The itinerary includes visits to iconic Inca sites like Machu Picchu, Sacsayhuaman, and the Sacred Valley. Cultural immersion activities, such as learning about Andean textiles, are also part of the package.

The tour includes 6 nights of hotel accommodation, transportation, and select meals.

Daily Itinerary

Arrival in Cusco kicks off the 7-day Andean Experience tour, where participants enjoy a pick-up from the airport and accommodation at Ayni Cusco Hotel or a similar 3-star property. On Day 2, guests explore Cusco’s highlights, including Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Tambomachay, and Puca Pucara, before traveling to Ollantaytambo to board the Machu Picchu train. Early the next morning, they visit the iconic Machu Picchu, one of the seven wonders of the world. The itinerary continues with visits to Moray, Maras Salt Mines, Chinchero, Cochawasi Animal Sanctuary, and Pisaq Market and archaeological site, before returning to Lima on the final day.

Day	Location	Activities
1	Cusco	Arrival, accommodation, rest, and acclimatization
2	Cusco, Ollantaytambo	Cusco tour, travel to Ollantaytambo
3	Machu Picchu	Early morning visit to Machu Picchu
4	Ollantaytambo, Moray, Maras	Return to Ollantaytambo, visit Moray and Maras Salt Mines
5	Chinchero	Explore Chinchero, learn about Andean textiles

Included Experiences

This 7-day Andean Experience tour in Cusco, Peru offers a wealth of culture and sightseeing opportunities.

Guests will enjoy 6 nights in 3-star hotels with breakfast, as well as all transportation during the tour. An expert English-speaking guide will lead the group, providing insights into Inca history and culture at sites like Sacsayhuaman, Machu Picchu, and the Pisaq Market.

Travelers will get to experience the living culture, learn about Andean textiles, and explore UNESCO World Heritage locations. Meals like a dinner and a lunch are also included.

While flights and single supplements have additional costs, this comprehensive tour provides an in-depth look at the Inca legacy in the heart of the Andes.

Additional Costs

What’re the additional costs not covered by the tour package?

While the tour includes many amenities, there are some additional costs to be aware of. Flights to and from Cusco aren’t included, so travelers will need to budget for their own airfare.

There’s also a single supplement fee of $300 for those who wish to have a private room.

Travel insurance isn’t included, so it’s recommended that travelers purchase their own policy.

Finally, if visitors want to hike up Huayna Picchu, there’s a separate entrance fee of $85 per person.

These additional costs will need to be factored into the overall trip budget.

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Arrival and Accommodation

Upon arrival in Cusco, the tour participants are picked up from the airport and transferred to the Ayni Cusco Hotel or a similar 3-star accommodation.

The first day is dedicated to rest and acclimatization to the high altitude, allowing participants to adjust to the local environment.

The hotel provides a comfortable and convenient base for the upcoming adventures. With its central location, the Ayni Cusco Hotel offers easy access to the historic city center and sets the stage for the immersive cultural experience that lies ahead.

Participants can take this time to explore the nearby surroundings and prepare for the exciting days to come on the Andean tour.

Exploring Cusco and the Sacred Valley

On the second day, the tour participants set out to explore the historic city of Cusco and the surrounding Sacred Valley. They visited the impressive Inca ruins of Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Tambomachay, and Puca Pucara, marveling at the architectural feats of the ancient civilization.

Next, they traveled to the charming town of Ollantaytambo, where they boarded the train to Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

The tour highlights included:

1. Witnessing the engineering prowess of the Incas at the Sacsayhuaman ruins.
2. Exploring the agricultural research site of Moray and the Maras Salt Mines.
3. Interacting with local artisans at the vibrant Pisaq Market.

Visiting Machu Picchu

The second day of the tour began with an early morning visit to the iconic Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Climbing the ancient stone steps, the group marveled at the breathtaking views of the majestic Andes. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, they explored the intricate terraces, temples, and plazas, uncovering the mysteries of this Inca citadel. The experience evoked a profound sense of wonder and connection to the past.

Emotion	Evocation
Awe	The grandeur of Machu Picchu’s architecture and setting
Wonder	The mysteries of the Inca civilization
Reverence	The spiritual significance of the site
Curiosity	Learning about the daily life and rituals of the Incas
Appreciation	Connecting with the living heritage of the Andean people

Cultural Highlights

This tour offers a profound culture, allowing visitors to intimately engage with the living heritage of the Andean people.

Highlights include:

1. Exploring the sacred Inca ruins of Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Tambomachay, and Puca Pucara, offering a glimpse into the architectural prowess and spiritual beliefs of the Inca Empire.

2. Interacting with local artisans at the vibrant Pisaq Market, where visitors can learn about traditional Andean textile techniques and purchase unique handcrafted products.

3. Participating in an Andean textiles learning experience in Chinchero, providing an opportunity to explore the rich cultural traditions of weaving and dyeing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

The tour has a small group size, limited to 15 participants. This allows for more personalized attention from the live tour guide available in both Spanish and English.

Are Any COVID-19 Safety Protocols in Place During the Tour?

The tour has COVID-19 safety protocols in place, including limited group sizes, mask requirements, and enhanced cleaning procedures to ensure the health and safety of all participants throughout the Cusco adventure.

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

Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Cusco after the 7-day tour ends. The tour operator can assist with booking additional nights at the hotel or provide recommendations for extended activities in the area.

Are There Any Vegetarian/Vegan Meal Options Available?

Yes, the tour offers vegetarian and vegan meal options. Guests can request these dietary requirements when booking, and the tour guides will accommodate them throughout the included meals during the itinerary.

Can I Book Private/Custom Tours Instead of the Group Tour?

Yes, the tour provider offers private and custom tours. Guests can tailor the itinerary and enjoy a more personalized experience with just their travel companions. Private tours are available for an additional fee.

Recap

This 7-day Andean experience offers an immersive journey into the heart of Peru’s Inca heritage. Travelers will explore iconic sites, interact with local artisans, and explore ancient traditions, all while experiencing the breathtaking Andean landscapes and vibrant local culture. With expert guidance, this carefully curated itinerary fosters a deeper appreciation for this remarkable civilization.

You can check if your dates are available here: