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THE 10 BEST Cusco Tours & Excursions

Cusco tours.

• Scenic Railroads
• Cultural Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Likely to Sell Out
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Full Day Tour to Machu Picchu from Cusco

2. Machu Picchu Day Trip from Cusco

3. Rainbow Mountain in One Day from Cusco

4. 2-Day Tour: Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu by Train

5. The Ultimate Sacred Valley tour: 1 day of Inca history, lifestyle, landscapes

6. Machu Picchu Full Day

7. Excursión to Humantay Lake Full Day from Cusco

8. Cusco City Tour Four Ruins Half-Day Tour

9. Cusco Walking tour in English

10. Excursion to Rainbow Mountain Full Day.

11. Peruvian Cooking Class and Local Market in Cusco

12. 2-Day Tour from Cusco: Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu by Train

13. Sacred valley of the Inkas Premium Full Day Tour

14. Quad Bike Tour To Moray and Salt Mines in Sacred Valley

15. Full day excursion to Machu Picchu from Cuzco

16. 4-Day Salkantay Trek with Sky Camp Stay

17. Fully hands-on High End Peruvian Cooking Class & San Pedro Market Guided Visit

18. Inca Trail 4 days to Machu Picchu with Panoramic Train

19. Rainbow Mountain Day Trip from Cusco

20. Rainbow Mountain Revealed: Exclusive 08:00 am Departure

21. Rainbow Mountain with ATVs

22. 7-Days :Cusco|| Sacred Valley|| MachuPichu|| Rainbow mountain|| Humantay lake||

23. Machu picchu one day by train all included

24. Day Trip Tour to Machu Picchu from Cusco

25. Machu Picchu Private Guided Tour from Aguas Calientes

26. Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2D/1N

27. Tour to Machupicchu 2 Days by Minivan

28. Classic Inca Trail Trek 4D/3N to Machu Picchu (Group Service)

29. Rainbow Mountain In Quad Bike

30. Horseback riding through four hidden temples of the inkas

What travelers are saying.

• Full Day Tour to Machu Picchu from Cusco
• Excursión to Humantay Lake Full Day from Cusco
• Excursion to Rainbow Mountain Full Day.
• Quad Bike Tour To Moray and Salt Mines in Sacred Valley
• Rainbow Mountain in One Day from Cusco
• Alpaca Expeditions
• Salkantay Trekking
• Viagens Machu Picchu
• Valencia Travel Cusco
• Peru Travel Specialist
• Incredible Travel
• Willka Travel
• South Adventure Peru Tours
• Evolution Treks Peru
• Inka Trail Expeditions Perú

10 Cusco Day Trips (You Won’t Want to Skip!)

From local markets and upscale, experimental restaurants to indigenous markets and age-old ruins, there is a lot to see and do in Cusco. However, make sure to venture outside of the city for some of its best hidden gems – taking a day trip from Cusco is one of the very best things to do in Cusco !

Whether you’re just in Cusco for a day or two as you acclimate to the altitude in preparation to visit Machu Picchu, or you plan on spending a week or more here, save space in your itinerary for a Cusco day trip – they’re among the best things to do in Peru .

In this ultimate guide to the best Cusco day trips, you’ll learn about everything from the natural wonders of the Andes Mountains to the Incan ruins that give the Sacred Valley its name. We’re covering the most popular day trips and those you won’t hear other bloggers talking about. Your trip to Cusco is incomplete without one, so let’s dive in and explore the best day trips from Cusco.

This post contains affiliate links that may reward me monetarily or otherwise when you use them to make qualifying purchases – at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, please read our  disclosure policy .

Cusco Day Trips

Located in the heart of the Sacred Valley and the transportation hub for the entire region, Cusco is a natural stop for travelers looking to head to Machu Picchu. Most of the travelers visiting Cusco use the city as a natural destination to acclimatize to the soaring altitudes before heading onward to Machu Picchu , perhaps enjoying a few of the best things to do in Cusco along the way.

Of course, Machu Picchu is – for many travelers – its own day trip from Cusco. We won’t be covering Machu Picchu in this article, but rather focusing on the other popular Cusco day trips to consider before (or after) you visit Machu Picchu.

If your itinerary allows for it, don’t make the mistake of making Machu Picchu among your only day trips from Cusco – there is so much more here to see and do. Let’s dive into some of the best and easiest day trips from Cusco. Easily manageable with just one day, these adventures outside of town are sure to be a highlight of your trip.

Cusco Tourist Pass

You’ll need to purchase the Cusco Tourist Pass to visit almost any of these destinations – especially the sites with ruins! The Cusco Tourist Pass is an excellent deal and includes admissions to a variety of sites in and around Cusco over a number of days. Book your Cusco Tourist Pass in advance and start planning your trip!

Day Trips from Cusco

A day trip to Pisac is one of the easiest day trips from Cusco. Pisac is just 45 minutes north of Cusco, making it also one of the most popular. Home to some of the most spectacular Incan ruins in the Sacred Valley and one of the best markets in Latin America , Pisac is an easy choice for Cusco day trips for visitors.

You can easily get from Cusco to Pisac without booking a tour – meaning this is also a great day trip for travelers on a budget.

Take a small passenger van called a “colectivo” that departs regularly from Calle Puputi in the historic center of Cusco or take a taxi. The colectivo will cost just a few bucks, while the taxi will cost about $20 (in soles).

Plan to visit Pisac on Sunday, if you can, to take advantage of being in town for the market day! The Pisac Market is a long-standing tradition, bringing local vendors from the area to town to sell everything from live animals to fresh fruit and vegetables to souvenirs and textiles.

While the market is open daily, on Sunday, the entire town seems to be overtaken by stalls spilling into the streets – it’s great fun and fantastic people-watching (and shopping, too)! Of course, no trip to Pisac is complete without exploring the ruins.

Make sure to budget a good 3-4 hours at least to explore the entire site; there are several different sections you’ll want to see , and the site requires a lot of walking, which can be taxing when you still haven’t fully adjusted to the altitude.

Make sure to explore the impressive agricultural terracing and the different “neighborhoods” of the ruins. You’ll also find nearly 20 different watchtowers – unique to Pisac! – as well as the largest Incan cemetery ever discovered. It’s estimated to have held up to 10,000 bodies! It’s among the Cusco day trips we loved best.

Read More: Ultimate Guide to Pisac: Pisac Market + the Pisac Ruins

Machu Picchu Tickets

Order your tickets to Machu Picchu as far in advance as you can! Access is limited to preserve this historic site.

• Machu Picchu Ticket
• Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu Ticket
• Bus Ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu

2. Ollantaytambo

One of the most important Incan sites in the Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo is another of the best day trips from Cusco if you’re looking to explore some jaw-dropping ruins.

What’s more, Ollantaytambo is also an incredibly quaint and charming little town, with good restaurants and even some great shopping, making for the perfect combination of activities for a stellar Cusco day trip.

Ollantaytambo is easily reached by taxi from Cusco or by local bus – buses depart from the historic center of Cusco frequently and cost just a few dollars. The ride takes around an hour and a half, no matter how you travel.

The main attraction of Ollantaytambo is the impressive ruins on the hillsides around the city. Though the city was built on top of Incan ruins as well, and still maintains much of the original layout from centuries ago.

Some of the most impressive ruins include the “Baño de la Nusta” fountain, as well as the jaw-dropping Sun Temple, composed of massive multi-ton monoliths. You’ll want to dedicate at least 2-3 hours to exploring the ruins.

As the start of the train system that takes visitors the rest of the way to Machu Picchu, Ollantaytambo is bustling – as much as a small town can be bustling – and has a lot to offer tourists. You’ll find artisan shops, like the Awamaki fairtrade shop where local weaving cooperatives sell their wares, and plenty of cozy cafes and restaurants.

Ollantaytambo is a favorite destination among Cusco day trips organized by local tour guides – many combine visits to Ollantaytambo and Pisca in one of their easy day trips from Cusco. This is by far the easiest way to enjoy day trips from Cusco – we recommend this small-group excursion from Cusco if you’re on a tight itinerary!

Read More: Ultimate Travel Guide to Ollantaytambo, Peru

3. Rainbow Mountain

You’ve surely seen it before – the Rainbow Mountain – whether it be on Instagram, some viral photo, or just on promotional material for travel to Peru. This stunning mountain is truly a rainbow, with distinct stripes of color left by mineral deposits over time. It looks surreal. 

Also known as the Montaña de Los Siete Colores or Vinicunca, the Rainbow Mountain has only recently become such a world-famous attraction – it was covered year-round in snow and ice until about 2013, when rising temperatures revealed it.  It’s one of the newest day trips from Cusco but easily among the most popular.

Rainbow Mountain is now a major tourist attraction in Peru and one of the most popular Cusco day trips other than Machu Picchu.  Day trips with a guide to Rainbow Mountain  are essential unless you have your own form of transportation in Peru.

A day trip to Rainbow Mountain is admittedly a long one – tour operators pick up guests between 3:00 – 4:00 AM from hotels and hostels in the Cusco historic center, and then embark on a 3 hours drive to the mountain. Once there, you’ll need to trek for about 1.5 -2 hours to reach the lookout over the mountain.

The views, even before you reach the mountain, are gorgeous. It’s a remote, windswept area, so you’ll want to ensure you’re appropriately dressed for the hike – bundle up year-round!

While not too demanding of a hike physically, it might be best to leave this trip for after you’ve become more acclimated to the altitude here – even just a day or two in Cusco will help significantly.

It’s best to save a trip to Rainbow Mountain for the dry season – snow and rain can make these trips impossible – or steal that classic view of the rainbow-streaked mountain. 

4. Moray and Maras

Located between Cusco and Ollantaytambo, the two unique destinations of Moray and Maras are some of the most visually stunning and unique spots you’ll find in the Sacred Valley . Located just 15 minutes away from each other , these two destinations make one of the most popular Cusco day trips.

While you can visit these sites in addition to others in the Sacred Valley as part of a more extensive  Sacred Valley tour , these spots can be seen in an unhurried way, making for great day trips from Cusco.

The easiest way to visit is by booking a  Moray and Maras day trip from Cusco .  Small group day trips  are quite inexpensive and can include visits to Chinchero or Pisac as well. 

Moray is the site of some unique Incan terracing you won’t find anywhere else. With their distinct round shape, these terraces look otherworldly, and with their high walls and multiple levels, these circle terraces descend almost 500 feet (150 meters) directly into the earth.

While more study remains to be done about these terraces, archeologists know that the Incas used them for farming and that the depressions created a significant temperature difference on each level. Plus, they’ve determined that unique soil compositions were transported here and added to each terrace for special planting purposes.

Maras is home to the Maras Salt Mines , some of the world’s largest salt mines, used since pre-Inca times. Saltwater is released from a natural underground spring and fed through salt pools to extract the salt naturally from the water.

The ingenuity of the pre-Incan civilizations in cultivating this natural resource is clear! The different salt pools create a white waterfall effect on the hillside for an incredible and unforgettable view of the valley. Its one of the most unique day trips from Cusco, that’s for sure!

Read More About Peru Travel

• 25+ Best Things To Do in Peru
• Where to Stay in Cusco, Peru
• Machu Picchu Packing List

5. Urubamba

The largest town in the Sacred Valley, Urubamba is a great destination for a mix of activities to enjoy during a Cusco day trip.

Often added to a larger  Sacred Valley day trip , Urubamba offers the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful town with shops, restaurants, abundant natural beauty, ruins, and proximity to many other important destinations nearby.

Many visitors choose to acclimate to the altitude in the area by spending a few days here in some of the area’s most beautiful luxury hotels, complete with extensive grounds and spas, including:

• Tambo del Inka
• Rio Sagrado, a Belmond Hotel

Urubamba is also home to Incan ruins of its own, the famous Quispiguanca royal palace of Incan emperor Huayna Capac. In the large open spaces, you can imagine the stately courtyards and spaces used to grow all kinds of food used to feed the emperor and his elite.

Though the ruins aren’t as impressive as some of the others you’ll find in the Sacred Valley, they’re worth a visit as a part of a tour of Urubamba and the surrounding area during one of your day trips from Cusco.

Urubamba is also a top-rated destination for river rafting, one of the best in Peru. You can find excellent, well-done  excursions for river rafting , along with the opportunity to zip line across the valley, another highlight for adventure seekers. 

Travel Essential

Don’t think about traveling without a good  VPN (Virtual Private Network) . Using a VPN while connecting to the internet is an easy way to keep your personal information safe from hackers and trackers.  We’ve used  NordVPN  for years and couldn’t recommend it more – it’s a must for safety online, at home or abroad. 

6. Humantay Lake

The pictures speak for themselves – Humantay Lake is a truly incredible destination and well worth your consideration if you’re choosing from among several options of day trips from Cusco. Visiting was one of our favorite things to do in Peru .

This aquamarine high-altitude lake, with the most beautiful snow-capped peak in the background, is a sight you won’t soon forget. Once infrequently visited, it’s now among the most popular Cusco day trips.

Cusco day trips to Humantay Lake  are quite affordable – generally around $40 USD – and are by far the easiest way to visit the site. Alternatively, you could take a taxi to Humantay Lake, but you’ll end up paying much more for transportation than you would by just joining a  Humantay Lake small group tour . 

Tours leave Cusco quite early in the morning, usually around 4:00 AM , as the journey to reach the lake takes about 3 hours. Once you arrive, prepare yourself for a hike! The trail from the parking area to the lake is uphill the whole way and takes about an hour to complete.

Good hiking boots are a must-have if you’re hiking the Inca Trail (though potentially overkill if just visiting Machu Picchu). However, if you plan to visit Humantay Lake, I recommend having your hiking boots ready. The ground is loose in some spots , and you’ll want good traction. 

In the market for a new pair? These are the boots we’ve had and used for years – they’ve made it to several countries with us! 

• Women’s Merrell Waterproof Hiking Boots
• Men’s Timberland Waterproof Hiking Boots

While the uphill hike is challenging – especially if you’re still getting accustomed to the altitude here – it’s not very technically difficult, and you’ll just need to take your time when hiking, as you will on most day trips from Cusco. The view at the base of the lake is well worth the effort!

Where to Stay in Cusco

• Saqray Hostel ($)
• Casa Andina – Cusco Plaza ($ – $$)
• Hotel Rumi Punku ($$)
• Tocuyeros Boutique Hotel ($$ – $$$)
• Monasterio ($$$$)

7. Huchuy Qosqo

The ruins of the Incan site Huchuy Qosqo – known as “Little Cusco” – are an excellent choice for a day trip from Cusco , little visited but with much to offer those who make it here.

This former royal palace of the emperor Viracocha was a summer estate outside of Cusco , where he sought refugee after a revolt that would lead to his son, Pachacuti, taking control of the empire.

To reach Huchuy Qosqo, which is inaccessible via road, you’ll need to hike from the town below the ruins, Lamay, for about 2 hours until reaching the ruins. The hike is physically strenuous , so plan on adding this to your itinerary only after spending at least a few days in Cusco to adjust to the climate. You’ll need to book a guide for the hike . 

Some tour companies also offer  community tourism opportunities  in the town of Lamay in the valley, which is a great way to see traditional dances, try local food, and meet weaving cooperatives in the area, sustainably supporting tourism.  Community Tourism Cusco  offers an excellent excursion. 

Despite the effort to get here, you’ll be greatly rewarded with incredible views, amazing ruins, and an unmatched opportunity to visit this incredible destination in the Sacred Valley. It’s one of our favorite Cusco day trips if you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path gem.

8. Chinchero

The small town of Chinchero – located between Cusco and Urubamba – seems to have everything you could ever want on day trips from Cusco.

In Chinchero you’ll find a lovely, historic village, home to artisans and an indigenous market where you can purchase beautiful textiles, plus Incan ruins of a royal palace and lovely, terraced hillsides.

You’ll have plenty of options for visiting Chinchero. Many of the  Sacred Valley tours  that take participants to various spots in the Sacred Valley include a stop in Chinchero. However, you’re not likely to find a group excursion that only brings you to Chinchero unless arranging a private tour with a guide.

These are some popular tour itineraries that include stops in Chinchero:

• Sacred Valley Full-Day Tour: Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero
• Sacred Valley Half-Day Tour: Moray, Maras, and Chinchero

Of course, you’re also free to visit Chinchero independently as well! You can easily arrange for a taxi from Cusco, or take the public bus. Leaving from Cusco every hour, the bus ride costs just $2 USD and takes around 45 minutes. It’s one of the easier Cusco day trips you can choose from.

Other than visiting this gorgeous town, the Chinchero market, and the nearby ruins, if you’re looking for something else to do near Chinchero, consider ziplining! The zipline outside of Chinchero  is famous and perfect for adventurous spirits who would love a bird’s-eye view of the town and the valley below.

9. Tambomachay

The Incan ruins of Tambomachay make it among the best day trips from Cusco. Though not as extensive as the ruins you’ll find in larger Incan cities like Ollantaytambo or Pisac, Tambomachay is an incredible display of Incan ingenuity and construction prowess that make for an incredible visit.

Also known as El Baño del Inca  “the bath of the Inca,” Tambomachay is thought to have been a royal bathing complex outside Cusco for the city’s elite.

Other theories of its use are that it served a religious purpose, as you’ll find similar though less extensive fountain structures in many other Incan ruins throughout the Sacred Valley.

Tambomachay is so close to Cusco that it is included in many Cusco city tours, along with the ruins of Sacsayhuaman located on the crest just above the town.  These are the best local tours that include a visit to Tambomachay:

• Private Cusco Tour: Cusco City, Sacsayhuaman, and Tambomachay
• Small Group Cusco Tour: Cusco City, Sacsayhuaman, and Tambomachay

You can make sure to visit Tambomachay on a Cusco city tour, or plan to visit on your own by arranging for a taxi to reach the site. You can check with your taxi driver and ask him or her to remain at the site while you explore for a while or catch one dropping off another visitor for a ride back to town.

Read More: Sacred Valley, Peru: Ultimate Guide

10. South Valley

Last on our list of Cusco day trips – but certainly not least – is Cusco’s South Valley. While the Incan sites to the north and west of Cusco generally get all the attention, the South Valley sites are just as beautiful – and typically must less overrun with tourists, even during high season.

The  South Valley  is known for having some stunning and unique landscapes, whether you’re here around the rainy season and see them lush and green or in the dry season and see them in more beautiful yellows and burnt tones. 

The South Valley is home to several important Incan sites, including the most impressive three: Tipon, Pikillacta, and Andahuaylillas. Tipon is extremely impressive, with massive terraces and ornate stepping stone structures, as well as monumental and ceremonial fountains.

Pikillacta is the area’s only pre-Incan site, home to the Wari. Andahuaylillas is home to Incan ruins as well, though visiting is also the perfect chance to see the quaint, historic town with the beautiful church known as the “Sistine Chapel of the Americas.” It makes it among the most unique Cusco day trips you can choose from.

You can find a relatively inexpensive  half-day or full-day tour of the South Valley that covers these three main archeological sites and includes transportation, food, and a knowledgeable guide.

This is the best way to easily and conveniently explore in just one day – and you’ll save money with a small group excursion rather than just using taxis from place to place.

• Best Things to Do in Cusco
• Where to Stay in Cusco + Best Cusco Neighborhoods
• Ultimate Machu Picchu Packing List
• Ultimate Inca Trail Packing List

Whether you’re looking for a hassle-free guided small-group excursion from Cusco to enjoy popular sites like Ollantaytambo and Pisac, or want to get off the beaten path at Huchuy Qosqo or the South Valley, you will have no trouble finding out how to escape the city with Cusco day trips you’ll love. From lush forests and waterfalls to mountains and age-old ruins, the incredible Sacred Valley (and beyond!) has so much to offer.

Carley Rojas Avila

Carley Rojas Avila is a bilingual New York-based travel writer, editor, content marketer, and the founder of the digital travel publications Explorers Away and Home to Havana. Carley is an expert on all things Latin America, the Caribbean, and Cuba, having lived and worked in four different countries in the region. Her writing has appeared on the Associated Press wires and in Travel + Leisure, Yahoo, MSN, Euronews, The Weather Channel, and more. When she's not writing about her travels, find her front row at a Bad Bunny concert, befriending street cats, and taste-testing every pizza in Havana.

Home » Travel Guides » Peru » 15 Best Day Trips from Cusco

15 Best Day Trips from Cusco

The former capital of the mighty Inca Empire, Peru’s city of Cusco is a fabulous base from which to explore fascinating archeological and historical sites, as well as enjoy time in nature.

The UNESCO World Heritage City boasts striking colonial-era architecture, including stunning churches and squares, and it’s common to see the indigenous residents strolling through the streets clad in traditional attire.

A major tourist destination, Cusco has plenty of accommodations to suit varying budgets, restaurants serving traditional cuisine and global favorites, and lively bars to kick back in after dark.

Although the city has much to be proud of, many of the area’s delights can be found beyond the city limits.

Here are some of the best day trips to take from Cusco for a fabulous Peruvian adventure to remember.

1. Machu Picchu

Perhaps Peru’s ultimate destination, a visit to the Lost City of the Incas is a must when exploring the South American nation.

While many people opt to arrive at the mystical site after a multi-day hike along the Inca Trail, a day trip from Cusco is ideal if time is limited or you just don’t want to include hiking in your holiday.

Make your way to Aguas Calientes, the main gateway to the incredible Incan site, before marveling at the expansive ruins and sweeping vistas.

Thought to have been built in the mid-1400s, Machu Picchu is today a UNESCO World Heritage Site and commonly said to be one of the world’s new seven wonders.

Walk along the terraces, peering into reconstructed buildings and captivating nooks; admire the Temple of the Sun and the Temple of the Three Windows; ponder whether the Temple of the Condor was originally used as a torture chamber; and see the Intihuatana stone – an ancient sundial.

You can also walk up to the Sun Gate for terrific views across the ruins.

Recommended tour : Day Trip to Machu Picchu by Train from Cusco

2. Sacsayhuaman

Sacsayhuaman is another impressive Incan legacy close to Cusco.

Steeped in history, it is believed that the site was first developed before the arrival of the Incas in the 1100’s and then later expanded and fortified during the Inca Empire.

The UNESCO-listed treasure is perched high on a hilltop, providing great views over the surroundings.

See the sacred spring at Tambomachay and explore the stone labyrinth of Qenqo, both close to Sacsayhuaman archaeological site, before strolling through ancient temple remains, old storage areas, and the ruins of homes.

Suggested tour : Archaeological Park of Sacsayhuaman

3. Huchuy Qosqo

Spend a day hiking to the well-preserved Huchuy Qosqo (Little Cusco) to enjoy historic sites, nature, views, and interactions with locals.

Leading through several passes, there are plenty of breathtaking vistas throughout the valley to admire.

The scenic Queullacocha Lake and the grasslands offer even more natural beauty, and there are many species of bird to spot.

The archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo is thought to date back to the 1420’s, though evidence suggests that the area was inhabited for a long time prior to the development of the remains you see today.

There’s a mixture of stone and adobe structures, with impressive terraces, reconstructed storage buildings, a long great hall, religious buildings, a stretching irrigation channel, and more.

4. Rainbow Mountain

One of the most unique natural marvels in the wider Cusco area, Rainbow Mountain is truly a sight for sore eyes.

Known locally as Vinicunca, locals revere the mountain, seeing it as sacred.

Spiritual rituals and worship have taken place here since before the Incan era, and people still come to the striking mountain to pray, give thanks, and leave offerings.

Colorful layers, formed by mineral deposits, make for an unusual sight, with hues of red, brown, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple.

Soak up the splendid views of the nearby snow-capped peaks, the Ausangate Glacier, and the verdant valley too.

The drive from Cusco to the trailhead takes around three hours, followed by a challenging trek.

Available tour : Rainbow Mountain Trek from Cusco

5. Humantay Lake

A spectacular vision in the Peruvian Andes, a trip to Humantay Lake is not one that you will easily forget.

Formed when glaciers melted many centuries ago, the sparkling, calm, turquoise waters reflect the surrounding snow-capped mountaintops like a mirror.

Look for small, precariously balancing stone towers constructed around the lake to worship the Incan earth god.

You’re also likely to spot an array of interesting flora and fauna.

Horse riding is available around the lake or you can enjoy splendid hiking.

It’s a fabulous destination for fans of photography and the great outdoors.

Amazing tour : From Cusco: Humantay Lake 1-Day Trek

Chonta is a small Andean community to the west of Cusco.

As well as being able to see how local people live in the village and admiring stunning views that encompass Salkantay Mountain, spotting wildlife is a highlight of this trip.

Look out for Andean foxes, deer, cougars, and majestic birds of prey such as hawks and eagles.

Seeing the mighty condor – the world’s largest bird of prey – soaring through the skies is nothing short of remarkable.

Make sure to have your camera at the ready.

7. Southern Valley

Cusco’s Southern Valley is a mysterious and intriguing place, brimming with ancient Incan (and pre-Incan) ruins, legends of old, and nature.

A major place of interest in the scenic valley is San Pedro Apóstol de Andahuaylillas Church, its simple white-washed façade belying the Baroque beauty that lies inside; the exquisitely painted ceilings, sparkling golden altar, and stunning frescoes have earned the church the nickname of the Sistine Chapel of the Andes.

The gorgeous church combines indigenous, Spanish, and Moorish designs.

The pre-Incan citadel of Piqillacta is another fascinating site, as is the Temple of Timpon with its elaborate irrigation system that was incredibly advanced for its time.

Add a thrill to your day with a rafting adventure along the raging rivers.

8. Anta Valley

The attractive Anta Valley can be found just 45 minutes from the heart of Cusco.

There are pretty villages, such as Zurite and Ancachuro, throughout the valley, and you’ll be able to explore huge terraces used for farming and the sacred Incan ruins of Quillarumiyoq.

An ATV adventure through the scenic terrain offers an exhilarating way to sightsee and have fun while admiring the natural beauty all around.

Discover lands that were socially important to the Incas and breathe in the history and fresh air.

9. Salumpunko

Situated just on the outskirts of Cusco, Salumpunko (also known as the Temple of the Moon) is easy to reach on a day trip.

Despite its proximity, the Incan site sees fewer visitors than other more well-known sites in the area.

This means that those who do take a trip here can escape the crowds and enjoy the site in relative tranquility, adding another dimension to fascinating explorations.

You can really feel as though you’ve stepped a little away from the beaten track as you wonder at the atmospheric ruins and splendid views.

Two caves lead into the hillside, each with interesting carvings and ritualistic altars.

Cracks in the walls allow the moonlight to hit the altars when the conditions are right, and the overall aura is one of suspense, intrigue, and secrets from the past.

Horse riding is possible in the surroundings for a varied day out.

10. Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley is a popular destination in Peru’s Cusco area, and a day trip is sure to be filled with many magical moments.

There are numerous monuments to admire and you’ll pass through a number of towns and villages, each with their own unique flavor.

The verdant Urubamba Valley is given life by the gushing Urubamba River, home to native wildlife.

Another highlight of the valley is Pisac with its bustling traditional market.

Browse an array of handicrafts and souvenirs and have light-hearted fun as you barter with vendors to secure the fairest prices for all.

Various activities are available in the locale, including rafting, hiking, exciting quad biking, and thrilling zip line adventures.

Recommended tour : From Cusco: Sacred Valley and Moray Ruins by Quad Bike

The town of Maras lies around 26 miles outside of Cusco, within the wider Sacred Valley area.

There’s a Catholic church – El Templo Mayor San Francisco de Asis – a local market, and a handful of eateries where you can savor traditional Peruvian cuisine.

The town’s real gem, however, are the stunning salt pools.

Arranged in geometric formations that are terraced down the slopes of a yawning canyon, a stream flows through the shallow pools, evaporating to leave salty deposits behind that sparkle in the sunshine.

The area provided Incans with salt, and still provides locals with the mineral today; harvesting processes are almost exactly the same as they were in times gone by, and you may see local families scraping the ground to gather the salt for sale.

Combo tour : Maras and Moray 6-Hour Tour from Cusco

12. Moray Archaeological Site

Situated close to Maras, the archaeological site of Moray sits on a soaring plateau above the town.

The ruins here are rather unlike those found elsewhere in the area, with circular-shaped indentations on the terraces.

Some holes are very deep, reaching down into the earth for up to almost 100 feet.

A mystery remains as to why these holes were created and several theories have been put forward.

The site has irrigation channels and – although the people of today are often baffled by the unique site – it was clearly important for the Incans.

Located in the Sacred Valley, the town of Pisac is worthy of a trip in its own right.

Boasting one of the area’s most vibrant markets, you’ll find fresh produce, household essentials, handicrafts, clothes, souvenirs, and more.

The colonial village sits beneath a hilltop Incan fortress, with an ancient sundial, temple remains, plazas, foundations, and terraces.

There are several places where old and young alike can delight in getting up close and personal with alpacas and other creatures.

Examples include Awana Kancha and the Living Museum of the Andes.

From hiking past pristine mountain lakes to relaxing yoga workshops, there are many activities to try too.

14. Chinchero

Chinchero is a picture-perfect Andean village.

Surrounded by towering mountains, a visit offers insights into rural Peruvian life.

Take a stroll through the local market to view a terrific selection of locally-made handicrafts; woven items are especially abundant.

Visit the Interpretation Center of Andean Textiles to learn more about the weaving processes and its importance here in Chinchero, the heart of the Peruvian weaving industry.

There’s a charming church next to the main square, with a blend of colonial and native designs.

Constructed by the Spanish, the religious building sits on the site of a much older Incan palace.

The village is thought to have once served as a country retreat for Incan rulers, and ruins include stone walls, agricultural terraces, aqueducts, and an ornate stone throne.

Around a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Cusco, Lares is an ideal place to rest, recharge, and re-energize after long days of hiking and exploring Cusco and its surroundings.

Visitors can soothe their mind, body, and soul with a blissful soak in an ancient natural thermal spa built by the Incans.

The mineral-rich waters aid with a number of conditions, the ambiance is serene, and the views are spectacular.

There are many peaks close to hand too if you fancy even more trekking.

15 Best Day Trips from Cusco:

• Machu Picchu
• Sacsayhuaman
• Huchuy Qosqo
• Rainbow Mountain
• Humantay Lake
• Southern Valley
• Anta Valley
• Sacred Valley
• Moray Archaeological Site

These are Our Day Tour From Cusco

Popular cusco day trips for acclimatization.

“We welcome you to Cusco and things to do in This Inca City: and “Unveil Endless Horizons with Tour Leaders Peru! “

We have done all of this work for you by outlining our favorite things and some amazing 1-day Cusco tours that can help get those ideas rolling!

Cusco City is a hidden gem, usually only discovered by those who venture beyond the city limits. This means that there are plenty more attractions to explore in this ancient Andean capital Such as The  Inca Trail to Machu Picchu! Make sure you don’t get bored with your Cusco half Day Tours and end up doing nothing but sightseeing all day long while waiting for nightfall (which won’t happen because it gets dark so fast).

We recommend you set aside some time every morning before hitting any museums or walking around historic sites like temples where locals go pray during sunset – which happens about 3 hours earlier than what most travelers expect due to south-southwest

We’ve curated a list of the best day trips from Cusco below to help you decide which is right for you or what to see in Cusco in one day , alongside essential information and inspiration on how to plan it.

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INCA TRAIL MAP

Embark on an exhilarating adventure along the legendary Inca Trail that leads you to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. Our beautifully illustrated Inca Trail map provides all the details you need – from daily stats to hidden campsites and more! Join us for a journey of a lifetime.

Inca Trail Hiking Tours

Cusco City Tour Half Day

Price: 180 usd group of 4 people.

Duration: Half Day Group Size: 8 Max Physical Rating: Good For Aclimatiztion With Cusco being one of the most fascinating destinations in Peru and throughout all of South America, it’s no wonder that there are so many day trips to take from this incredible city. You can’t go wrong with visiting Machu Picchu on your list if only for its proximity to where we live here at The World Tourist Attraction.  We recommend exploring some other areas as well!

We have compiled a few highly suggested itineraries just waiting around to match each other’s companion adventures in nature – whether they be hiking through mountain trails or enjoying views over vast ocean scenery; these locations will leave lasting impressions

Sacred Valley Full Day Tour From Cusco, Pisaq, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero.

Price usd 100 pp.

DURATION: Ful Day Tour All Inclusive GROUP SIZE: We Arrange groups up to 2 PHYSICAL RITE: Recommended for Acclimatization

The Valley of the Incas is an otherworldly, beautiful place that you must see to believe is recommended for the best Cusco Day Tours. It’s carved by a river and filled with stunning mountain views as it flows between two ranges in Cusco Peru – The Vilcanota Mountain Range (where many historic archeological sites can be found) This day trip from Cusco will take your breath away when we arrive at this ridiculously photogenic sacred land of the Incas!

Maras and Moray 1-Day Tour From Cusco Includes Inca Laboratory

Price from $180 family of 4 people.

DURATION: Half Day GROUP SIZE: We Arrange groups up to 2  PHYSICAL RITE: Easy recommended for Acclimatization Maras, Moray, and Chinchero are our top recommendations on our Day Trips in Cusco – Did you know that Peru has over 4000 types of potatoes? This is partly due to the agricultural experiments done during the Inca civilization, in what is known as ‘agricultural laboratories.

Moray is the most famous of these ‘laboratories. Perfect concentric circle terraces carved into a natural depression in the earth. Each of these terrace levels simulates a different altitude in the region, with different temperatures at every level.

Chinchero Nature Walk with Llamas and Alpacas

Price From USD 99 pp DURATION: Half Day GROUP SIZE: Available Only Tour Packages PHYSICAL RITE: Moderate Chinchero Nature Walk With Llamas And Alpacas. You could just get a Hotel in Cusco on your next trip to Peru, or you could rent an Airbnb in Chinchero’s native Quechua Village and get your Chichero tour package that will give you the experience of a lifetime.

When you usually go on a vacation, you are there to see sights. You want to see the beauty of the place where you have traveled. Unfortunately, that’s sightseeing, not a vacation.

Colorful Rainbow Mountain Tour From Cusco Full Day ( Vinicunca includes Red Valley )

DURATION: 5 Days / 4 Nights GROUP SIZE: We Arrange groups up to 2 hikers PHYSICAL RITE: Challenging The Vinicunca or Rainbow Mountain is one of the most magnificent attractions in all of Peru and is Part of Cusco Day hikes Tours full day.

Umantay Lake Full Day Tour From Cusco 4000 Meter Elevation

DURATION: Full Day Trip From Cusco Hotels GROUP SIZE: We Arrange groups up to 2 hikers PHYSICAL RITE: Moderate – Challenging Humantay Lake, nestled amidst the snow-capped mountains. Marvel at the turquoise waters of the lake and enjoy the spectacular views of the surrounding peaks.

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Horse Riding Tours From Cusco Half-Day

DURATION: Half-Day Tour In Cusco From Cusco Hotels GROUP SIZE: We Arrange groups up to 2 Customers PHYSICAL RITE: Easy There are several options for horseback riding excursions from Cusco, to take in the countryside and some of the less-visited Inca sites around Cusco. Popular trail rides usually visit the Temple of the Moon and Temple of the Rainbow or the “Devil’s Balcony”.

Other horse-riding half-day tours from Cusco include visits to the Inca archaeological sites Puca-Pucara, Tambomachay, Qenko, and Saqsayhuaman. Contact Us To include in Your Peru Packages for free.

7 LAGOONS CIRCUIT AUSANGATE FULL DAY TOUR FROM CUSCO

DURATION: Ful Day Trip From Cusco GROUP SIZE: We Arrange groups up to 2 hikers PHYSICAL RITE: Moderare and deal with Elevation Are you tired of exploring the same attractions in Cusco? Then book with us the tour to the 7 lagoons of Ausangate, a full-day excursion, full of adventure, landscape, mountains, and exotic-colored lagoons (turquoise, blue, green, and even reddish) that will blow your mind away; apart from those attractions you will also learn a little bit about Andean flora and fauna (Alpacas, Vizcachas, and Cóndors).

Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour 1D

Rafting and Ziplining Along Urubamba River Valley CUSCO

DURATION: Full Day Trip From Cusco Hotels GROUP SIZE: We Arrange groups up to 2 Travelers PHYSICAL RITE: Fun If you like more adventurous activities, a rafting and zip-lining trip could be right up your street. Cusco is close to several good rafting rivers, and you can arrange a rafting tour with us from Cusco.

The Urubamba River is one of the most popular spots for rafting, with class II and III rapids about an hour and a half outside of Cusco. During the rainy season, the rivers are higher and rapids can get up to class III or IV after heavy rain.

Tours typically include all rafting and safety equipment, lunch, transport, and a guide. You can also take a separate half-day zip line tour if you prefer to keep dry!

Machu Picchu by train 2 Day Tours From Cusco

DURATION: 2 days From Cusco Hotels GROUP SIZE: We Arrange groups up to 2 Travelers PHYSICAL RITE: Sightseeing You can’t talk about Cusco and not mention Machu Picchu! If you are not up for hiking the Inca Trail or another trek to Machu Picchu, then it is possible to take a 2-day trip from Cusco to Machu Picchu. We offer Cusco day trips to Machu Picchu from Cusco, which are a great option if you are short on time, but it will be a very long day with an early start at 3 am.

Machu Picchu tours from Cusco typically include all transport (train and bus), Hotel, a bilingual Tour guide, and entrance to Machu Picchu, we can give you details of each tour package carefully. Some include standard train tickets from Cusco to Machu Picchu, and others include a ‘Vistadome’ train which has windows on the ceiling and sides of the train.

Up for an Epic Adventure: Everything You Must Know!

This adventure raises many questions for visitors planning to do this incredible hiking trail. Find out how to do the walk, when is the best time to go, when is the worst time to go, what are its rules, its prohibitions, and much more. Go ahead and take one of the best walks in the world!

From April to October the days are sunnier and with little chance of rain. For many, it is the best time to hike to Machu Picchu. Sunny days favor getting the best photos on the route. May, June, and July are the driest months but with the coldest temperatures at night.

Rainy Season

From November to March, it usually rains more frequently. Some tourists are uncomfortable. Others enjoy the beautiful landscapes that the rain brings. The rains can cause slipping on the road so you must walk carefully. January, February, and March are the rainiest months so the necessary precautions should be taken.

Closed Trails

Trail reservation, your day backpack.

The Inca Trail, carry a backpack weighing max 5 kilos. Pack essentials: sleeping bag (not included), trekking poles (not included), phone batteries, camera, clothes, water, snacks, hat, sunblock, mosquito repellent, personal hygiene items, and medication.

Travel Inspiration

Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu: A 1-Day Hiking Travel Guide.

There are few adventures as iconic and awe-inspiring as hiking the ancient pathways of the Incas to discover the enigma of Machu Picchu. For those seeking a condensed yet equally profound experience, the Short Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu

Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: How Long Does It Take?

How long is the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?, Have You ever had an Idea or plan to Hike in Peru? Do you crave adventures? Then you must keep your eyes open to find opportunities for feeding those cravings. Hiking

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Difficulty

There is a common misconception about the Machu Picchu trek difficulty. How difficult is the Inca Trail Hike? The Machu Picchu trek difficulty depends on your skill level and various other factors. Is the Inca Trail hard? You can learn

Best Time to Hike The Inca Trail

When is the Best Time to Hike The Inca Trail from Cusco to Machu Picchu? The Classic Inca Trail 4D/3N is one of the most beautiful and picturesque places to visit in South America. This is also one of the

Discover the Best Time of Year to Do the Inca Trail

Ready to Conquer the Inca Trail? Secure Your Adventure Now! Contact Us Today to Reserve Your Spot and Start Your Epic Journey!” Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is not just a journey through captivating landscapes, but a walk

Everything You Need to Know About the Inca Trail Distance

The Distance of the Inca Trail route is 43 km (26 mi) long this classic trail is one of the most thrilling trek routes in the world. It offers its hikers many breathtaking views and is a perfect opportunity to

How Old do You Have to be to Hike the Inca Trail? Age Limits and More

Are you a family of adventure enthusiasts who love hiking with kids? Curious about the minimum age requirement for hiking the Inca Trail? Good news! There are no government regulations specifying a minimum or maximum age for this Inca Trail.

When is the best time to do the inca trail

Are you a thrill-seeker looking to embark on an unforgettable adventure? do you want to know when is the best time of year to do the Inca trail? If so, hiking the Inca Trail for 4 days should be at

How Long is The 4 Day Inca Trail – Itinerary & Elevation

How to Prepare for the 4-Day Inca Trail Trek, Peru? Are you ready for an exhilarating adventure that combines breathtaking scenery, historical intrigue, and physical challenge? pack your gear and be ready to hike the iconic 4-day Inca Trail trek

How long Does it take to Walk the Inca trail to Machu Picchu?

How long is the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu? Every year, an impressive number of 25,000 hikers from all around the globe embark on an extraordinary journey along the ancient trail constructed by the Incas. This trail leads them to

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Reasonn to book with us, how it all works, peru travel tips.

Planning a hike on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu? Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about the trek, Such as When Is The Best Time To Visit Machu Pichcu? with answers from our expert Tour Leaders. Whether you’re looking for information on permits, what to pack, or how difficult the trail is, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to learn more!

How long to be in Cusco?

What to avoid in cusco, can you do machu picchu as a day trip from cusco, how long is sacred valley from cusco, how long does it take to get from cusco to machu picchu, is the rainbow mountain worth it, is cusco safe to walk at night, what should i not eat in peru.

Most people should avoid shellfish, but it’s worth noting that ceviche, one of Peru’s classic dishes, contains raw fish and shellfish that are marinated instead of cooked. However, many travelers enjoy it without any issues. To be on the safe side, it’s recommended to indulge in ceviche at clean and upscale establishments.

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11 incredible day trips from cusco peru.

Spending a few days in Cusco Peru?  Many people plan a trip to Cusco just for Machu Picchu, but there is so much to explore here!  As well as plenty of things to do in Cusco, there are a lot of places to visit in the Sacred Valley – many of which you can explore on day trips from Cusco.  While you are in Cusco make sure you have time to explore the surrounding towns, landscapes and archaeological sites with these epic Cusco day trips!

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Know Before You Go to Cusco

Before travelling to Cusco, make sure you book accommodation and popular activities ASAP as hotels and tickets can sell out.

🛌 MY FAVOURITE ACCOMMODATION IN CUSCO:

$$ Katari at Plaza de Armas Cusco right in the centre of Cusco & great value

$$  Casa Matara – a beautifully furnished boutique hotel 

$ Casa Tunki – A gorgeous hotel & hostel with pretty courtyard

⭐ TOP 3 CUSCO ACTIVITIES TO BOOK IN ADVANCE:

1. Cusco: Rainbow Mountain Day Trip and Red Valley

2. From Cusco: Full-Day Group Tour of Machu Picchu

3. From Cusco: Moray and Salt Mines Quad Bike Tour

The Best Day Trips from Cusco

No matter how long you spend in Cusco, I’d still recommend exploring more of the Sacred Valley around the city.  I’d say 2 days in Cusco is the absolute minimum to enjoy the city and acclimatize to the altitude before attempting hikes or treks.

Some Cusco tours are ideal to help you acclimatize to the altitude in Cusco, whereas other more active day trips are best for once you can fully cope with the elevation here. 

I’ve put together a comprehensive list of the best day trips from Cusco Peru so you can plan your trip to the Sacred Valley with ease.

Machu Picchu Day Tours from Cusco

You can’t talk about Cusco and not mention the UNESCO World Heritage site of Machu Picchu!  This incredible place is one of the seven New Wonders of the World, and If you are not up for hiking the Inca Trail or doing another trek to Machu Picchu , then it is possible to take a day trip from Cusco to Machu Picchu.   

Most tour agencies in Cusco offer day trips to Machu Picchu from Cusco, which are a great option if you are short on time, but be prepared for a very long day with an early start.

Machu Picchu day tours from Cusco typically include all transport (train and bus), a bilingual guide and entrance to Machu Picchu, but be sure to check the details of each tour package carefully.  Some include standard train tickets from Cusco to Machu Picchu, and others include a ‘Vistadome’ train which has windows on the ceiling and sides of the train. 

I honestly don’t know if being able to see above you makes any difference, but if you are on a once-in-a-lifetime trip then you might want to make the most of it!

It is possible to book tours to Machu Picchu while you are in Cusco, but there are a limited number of entrance tickets to Machu Picchu available each day, so I would recommend booking a tour in advance to guarantee your preferred date.

Tours are available on Viator , but I usually use GetYourGuide to book my day trips. Some of the top day tours to Machu Picchu from Cusco available on GetYourGuide include: 

• Full-Day Group Tour of Machu Picchu
• Machu Picchu Full-Day Tour from Cusco with Optional Lunch
• Machu Picchu Full-Day Guided Tour

Visiting Machu Picchu Without a Tour

If you prefer not to take a tour then you could book your train tickets and Machu Picchu tickets independently.  In order to enter Machu Picchu, new rules mean you have to be with a guide, so you could arrange a tour guide at the entrance to Machu Picchu, or pre-book a guide with your tickets .

If you choose to travel independently, make sure you check the entry requirements and plan your trip carefully – in this case, I would suggest spending the night in Aguas Calientes to ensure you get an early start.

Trains run from Cusco to Aguas Calientes (aka Machu Picchu Town) at the base of the mountain, and you then hike up the steps to Machu Picchu, or take a bus which is much easier and quicker!  Spending the night in Aguas Calientes means you can be up early and potentially see the sunrise at Machu Picchu , which was the highlight of my trip to South America.

Check routes and plan your trip to Machu Picchu here on Bookaway .

Rainbow Mountain

Vinicunca, or Rainbow Mountain as it’s commonly known, was only discovered a few years ago, as it was previously always covered in snow.  Perhaps the only positive effect of global warming has been to melt the snow here and reveal the beautiful colours on the mountainside!

The hike is challenging, reaching over 5000 metres above sea level.  Make sure you are fully acclimatized before attempting the hike and prepare for a very early start from Cusco.  It is not recommended to hike in wet or snowy weather as the trail can become dangerously slippery and the visibility is poor.  

Bear in mind  that if you are planning to hike the Ausangate Trek to Machu Picchu, you can also visit Rainbow Mountain as part of the trek so there is no need to plan a separate day tour from Cusco.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: The Best Hikes in Peru

A day trek to Rainbow Mountain can be arranged through various Cusco tour agencies or you can pre-book online .

Lake Titicaca Tour from Cusco

Day trips from Cusco to Lake Titicaca are only possible if you take an overnight bus from Cusco to Puno, spend the day at Lake Titicaca, and return to Cusco on another night bus. 

It is a long way, and if you have more time then it is probably better to spend at least one night at Lake Titicaca so you’re not exhausted from the journey.  However, if you only have one day (and two nights) and you want to see Lake Titicaca then this is a good way to do it.

Peru Hop offers these day tours from Cusco to Lake Titicaca from $79 USD per person, leaving Cusco at 9pm at night, spending the next day at the lake, and getting back to Cusco at 5 or 6am the following morning. 

These tours include a guided visit of the Uros Islands on the lake (man-made reed islands) and a tour of Taquile Island, as well as the chance to enjoy the beautiful waters of the highest navigable lake in the world.   >>>LEARN MORE

Sacred Valley Day Tours from Cusco

There are agencies who arrange Sacred Valley tours from Cusco to take in several of the following sites in one day, but they can be very rushed.  However, if you want to fit in as much as possible into just one day then a day tour like this will be your best bet.

If you have enough time I would recommend spending at least one full day in Pisac and the same for Ollantaytambo, staying there overnight if you can.  Moray and Maras can be easily done in a day trip from Cusco including a quick stop at Chinchero as well if you decide to take a Sacred Valley tour from Cusco.

Pisac (Pisaq)

Pisac is a quaint little town, and definitely worth a day trip from Cusco or more time if you can spare it.  Plan your visit to coincide with the huge market on Saturday, for one of the best markets in South America.  There is a smaller market here every day though, so don’t worry if Saturday won’t fit with your itinerary!

Pisac is also known as a centre for alternative therapies and is a great place to arrange a massage before or after your trek to Machu Picchu!  The entrance fee to Pisac archaeological site is included in the Boleto Turistico tourist ticket , and you can either hike up from a path at the back of the market or take a taxi up to Pisac ruins from the centre of town to explore and admire the scenery across the valley.

READ MORE: Visiting Pisac Market & Inca Ruins

Ollantaytambo

I loved Ollantaytambo as it was much quieter and less touristy than Cusco.  I would recommend spending a couple of nights here on your way from Cusco to Machu Picchu as it is mid-way between the two and gives you a different base for exploring the Sacred Valley.  However, some people choose to visit Ollantaytambo on a day trip from Cusco which is a good option if you are short on time.

The Inca ruins here are built high up on a mountain above the town and were the site of Manco Inca’s last stand against the Spanish before he fled into the jungle.  Although originally built as temples, the ruins here are often referred to as a fortress for that reason.  Access is included in the Boleto Turistico Cusco Tourist Ticket.

There are plenty of other  things to do in Ollantaytambo aside from the ruins, including a chocolate museum, the market and visiting local communities.  Ollantaytambo is also closer to Moray and Maras, so you can visit those sites on a day trip from Cusco or as a tour from Ollantaytambo if you spend a couple of nights here.

To get to Ollantaytambo from Cusco you can take a collectivo shared taxi, or book a private transfer .

READ MORE: Why You Should Visit Ollantaytambo Before Machu Picchu

Moray and Maras Tours from Cusco

These two unique sites are quite close together, so typically visited together as part of a day trip from Cusco or Ollantaytambo.  It is possible to visit them independently but the public transport isn’t reliable, so taking a day tour is much easier. 

Day trips from Cusco to Moray and Maras Salt Mines on quad bikes are popular, or you can arrange a bike tour or a horse riding tour for a unique way to travel!  If you prefer something a little less adventurous then try a tour with car or bus transportation .  No matter how you get there, both sites are definitely worth exploring.

Moray, the agricultural experimentation centre of the Incas, is a unique Inca site as it was built specifically for agriculture, not as a religious or residential site.  The circular terraces allowed the Inca to experiment with different plants and climates to find the perfect conditions to grow their crops. 

Incas were accomplished farmers, and the unique terraces at Moray show how advanced they were in farming.  The circular terraces look more like alien crop circles than an agricultural centre and Moray was one of my favourite archaeological sites.  Entry is included with the Cusco Tourist Ticket.

Maras salt mines or Salinas have been used for salt evaporation since Inca times.  Salty water surfaces from a subterranean stream and is directed through a system of channels down the mountainside, trickling through a series of man-made salt ponds.  As the water gradually evaporates, the salt is harvested.  It is a surreal sight on the mountainside and a fascinating insight into how the Inca developed salt harvesting.

The archaeological site at Chinchero is the remains of the royal hacienda of Tupac Inca Yupanqui, with a series of terraces overlooking beautiful mountains.  There is also a colonial temple built on Inca foundations which you can go inside.

In the village of Chinchero, go to one of the many Textile Workshops where local women do demonstrations of traditional weaving techniques with the opportunity to buy the goods they make.  A visit to Chinchero is usually included in Sacred Valley tours to Moray & Maras or Pisac , or you can take a collectivo from Cusco for an independent visit.

Off The Beaten Path Cusco Day Trips

Some tours around Cusco go where most of the tourists don’t – so if you want a more unusual experience check out some of these day trips from Cusco:

Humantay Lake

Humantay Lake is a spectacular turquoise lake surrounded by mountains.  It makes a wonderful day trip from Cusco either with a tour or independently with a taxi (there is no public transport to the lake).  It’s about a 3-hour drive from Cusco to the trailhead and about an hour to an hour and a half hike to the lake itself. 

The scenery is absolutely stunning, and the hike isn’t particularly challenging as it is quite short, but it is a constant upward trail to the lake which gets slippery after heavy rain.

Make sure you are fully acclimatized to the altitude in Cusco before attempting the hike and remember to bring food for breakfast and lunch, and plenty of water.  Most Cusco tour agencies will offer a day trip to Humantay Lake, including transport, breakfast, lunch and a guide.  Some tours include the entrance ticket to Humantay Lake, with other tours you will have to pay the 10 soles entrance fee yourself.

If you do the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, you will stop off at Humantay Lake so you wouldn’t need a separate day trip in that instance.

Rafting and Ziplining

If you like more adventurous activities then a rafting and zip-lining trip could be right up your street.  Cusco is close to several good rafting rivers, and you can arrange a rafting tour with most agencies in Cusco. 

The Urubamba River is one of the most popular spots for rafting, with class II and III rapids about an hour and a half outside of Cusco.  During the rainy season, the rivers are higher and rapids can get up to class III or IV after heavy rain. 

Tours typically include all rafting and safety equipment, lunch, transport and a guide.  You can also take a separate half-day zip line tour if you prefer to keep dry!

Horse Riding Tours from Cusco

There are several options for horseback riding excursions from Cusco, to take in the countryside and some of the less-visited Inca sites around Cusco.  Popular trail rides usually visit the Temple of the Moon and Temple of the Rainbow or the “Devil’s Balcony”.

Other horse riding half-day tours from Cusco include visits to the Inca archaeological sites Puca-Pucara, Tambomachay, Qenko, and Saqsayhuaman.  Check out some options here.  

A South Valley Day Trip from Cusco

About an hour’s drive south-east of Cusco are two lesser-visited archaeological sites which are both special in their own ways.  Most tourists don’t explore this side of Cusco and stick to the archaeological sites closer to the city, but with a little extra effort, you will be rewarded with a unique pre-Inca settlement at Pikillacta and a feat of hydrological engineering at Tipon.  

You can visit independently by taking a taxi to Tipon and/or Pikillacta from Cusco, or take a day tour to include transport and a guide .  You will need the Cusco Tourist Ticket to visit these two sites.

Pikillacta Archaeological Site was built by the Wari culture around 500AD and shows how the Inca learned from previous civilisations.  The site is huge, and best visited with a guide who can explain the functions of the different areas.  Don’t miss the views from the viewpoint at the wall above the main entrance.

Tipon demonstrates the skill of the Inca’s hydrological engineering, with large terraces and lots of water channels bringing water to crops and so the Inca had fresh water to drink.  The town of Tipon is also renowned for its Guinea Pig dishes, so plan a stop for lunch there if you’re feeling brave!

These Cusco tours include visits to Pikallacta and Tipon:

Want More Peru Travel Ideas?

• Backpacking Peru Travel Guide
• Peru Solo Travel Guide
• Things to do in Lima  
• How to Get from Lima to Cusco
• Cusco Travel Guide
• Day Trips from Cusco 
• What is the Cusco Tourist Ticket
• How to Manage the Altitude in Cusco
• The Best 2 Day Cusco Itinerary
• Exploring Pisac in the Sacred Valley
• How to Get from Cusco to Ollantaytambo
• Flying over the Nazca Lines
• Backpacking Arequipa Peru
• A Guide to Hiking in Peru

Where to Stay in Cusco

The central area around the Plaza de Armas is the most convenient and close to all the major attractions but it tends to be busier and noisy at times.  The San Blas neighbourhood is pretty and quieter, but anywhere away from the central plaza tends to be a good walk up a hill which can be a challenge with heavy bags!

READ MORE: The Ultimate Cusco City Guide

The Best Hostels in Cusco

There are a dizzying number of hostels in Cusco to choose from, these are some of the best Cusco hostels for backpackers and budget travellers.

La Wak’a Perdida Hostel

La Wak’a Perdida is a small new hostel which only has one 8 bed dorm and a double room, so is cosy and quiet.  The owner is friendly, and breakfast is included in the rate or there is a kitchen to cook your own food.  It’s about 15 minutes’ walk from the Plaza de Armas, close to San Blas.  BOOK NOW>>>

Pariwana Hostel Cusco

Pariwana Hostel is a very popular Cusco Hostel, and is a sociable place with a bar and large terrace area for ping pong and socialising.  It is a borderline party place, but at the same time not crazy so you can still sleep. 

Breakfast is included, there is no kitchen but you can order food at the bar if you don’t fancy going out to eat.  Private rooms and dorms are available.  Very central, a couple of blocks from Plaza de Armas.  BOOK NOW>>>

Hospedaje Turistico Recoleta

Hospedaje Turistico Recoleta is small and homely hostel with great reviews for being a lovely place to relax and chill before or after the trek to Machu Picchu!  >>>BOOK NOW

Kokopelli Hostel Cusco

Kokopelli Hostel Cusco is THE place to stay in Cusco if you want to party but still with a comfy bed in a decent dorm room.  >>>BOOK NOW

BROWSE ALL HOSTELS IN CUSCO

Cusco Hotels

There is no shortage of hotels in Cusco either, from luxury properties to family-run guesthouses.  Check out the ratings for all Cusco Hotels on Booking.com or check out my top picks for Cusco hotels:

Antigua Casona San Blas

Antigua Casona San Blas is a 4* boutique hotel in the San Blas neighbourhood, which gets rave reviews for the friendly staff, excellent service and well-appointed rooms.  San Blas is up a steep hill from Plaza de Armas so it isn’t ideal if you have mobility issues. >>>CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY

Katari at Plaza de Armas Cusco

The location of Katari at Plaza de Armas Cusco can’t be beaten – it is on the corner of the Plaza de Armas right in the centre of Cusco.  Guests love the location, staff and comfort but the free wifi isn’t the best. >>>CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY

Casa Matara Boutique

Another lovely boutique hotel, the family-owned Casa Matara is beautifully furnished with a blend of modern and traditional Peruvian decor.  The comfortable beds and spacious bedrooms, and it’s just a 9 minute walk from Plaza de Armas.  >>>CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY

BROWSE ALL HOTELS IN CUSCO

Airbnb in Cusco

There are also plenty of  options for Airbnb in Cusco , like this charming apartment in the city centre , or check out the range of apartments on Booking.com , which often have better cancellation terms than Airbnbs in Cusco.  

Have you been to Cusco and taken any day tours?  What were your favourite day trips from Cusco Peru?  I’d love to read your comments below.

Like this post?  Pin it to read later:

Hi! I'm Claire Sturzaker, a 30-something foodie traveller who loves to enjoy the best of a destination without breaking the bank. I'm here to help you and all women backpackers to plan their best budget travel adventure. I am an avid supporter of female solo travel, and took my first solo trip 20 years ago! I love to write about travel, hostels, backpacking and van life.

8 thoughts on “ 11 Incredible Day Trips from Cusco Peru ”

I visited Peru a decade ago so much of this sounds familiar but I missed most of your suggestions! The Rainbow site sounds amazing and Ollantaytambo is a city I’d gladly return to. Sadly altitude sickness messed with much of my comfort during my entire trip!

A visit to Peru is very high up on my list. We wanted to go there last spring, but we ended up in Patagonia instead, lol. We are hoping to make it to Cusco by the end of the year and I’d love to try some of these day trips. I would particularly be interested in visiting Lake Titicaca. I’m glad to see some hotel recommendations in your post. That’s very helpful.

We were so disappointed last to have to cancel our Machu Picchu trip. But with some idea about day tours from Cusco, we can plan a better trip next time. But I did not know that you could do just a day trip to see Machu Picchu. Pictures of Rainbow Mountain have been tantalizing for me a while. Not sure that the climate change reason for the colours being visible is great. But the colours are great to see. The Sacred Valley would definitely be on our list. It looks like we could probably spent a week just travelling from Cusco.

Would definitely make Cusco my central point for like 3-4 days, after this post, when I visit Macchu Picchu. Everyone I know has only visited Cusco to see Macchu Picchu and some went on to explore Moray. But I am so glad you included Pikillacta and Humantay in your list! Also I didn’t know you could get day tours from Cusco to Lake Titicaca! Thanks for such a thoughtful list 😀

I prefer traveling independently and doing things on my own. For visiting Machu Picchu I would hike up by myself. And afterward, I would go to Pisac and would have a good massage there.

To be honest Peru and Machu Picchu have been on my bucket list for a quite long time now. But, what keeps me away from Machu Picchu are the crowds. I have read somewhere that about 4.000 people a day visit Machu Picchu. That was a huge deal breaker for me. Please tell me that’s not true.

xoxo Milijana

What a fascinating area. I can see why you have spent so much time there, so much to absorb! I’d love to visit the Uros Islands as I’ve not heard of any islands made of reed before. But those Circular Terraces, wow. They look like perfect circles, which can’t possibly have been easy to do considering the terrain. Have they always been so ‘perfect’ looking? Or did modern times clean them up a bit? Excellent write up Claire, so interesting!

I didn’t know about the Rainbow Mountain Day Tour from Cusco to add to the Macchu Pichu Tour/ Wow, all these make a trip to Cusco so valuable!

This year I need to go back to South America and Peru is at the top of the list at the moment. I’m glad I found your post – some of these options look very interesting (lake, biking). Lots to consider…

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• Tours in Cusco

Cusco is a city that is located in the province and region of the same name. This c ity is the capital of the department in which it is located and is also considered the Historical Capital of Peru .

The city of Cusco is rich, for the amount of tourist resources that it presents, and for the history that precedes it. Among the tourist attractions found in Cusco, there are places such as the Historic Center of the city that includes more than seven Catholic churches of Colonial origin.

The main churches that comprise the Catholic-religious circuit of Cusco are the Cathedral , the Church of La Compañía, the Convent and the Church of La Merced, the Church of San Blas, the Temple of San Cristóbal, the Church of Santo Domingo, among others.

For those who want to know the traditional neighborhoods of the city, there is nothing better than visiting the B arrio de San Blas , famous for the workshops of illustrious artisans found there. The San Blas fair is usually open on Saturdays only, however, if you go on weekdays, you can take advantage of the visit to get to know the same workshops of the neighborhood artisans, where you can get beautiful sculptures and paintings.

For those who are interested in museum tourism, there are also different spaces in the city set up for this purpose, one of them is the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, which is located in the Plaza de las Nazarenas and includes among its pieces on display the famous Larco collection.

Cusco City Tour – Half-Day Tour

In the City Tour Cusco full day you will enjoy the best tourist places in Cusco such as koricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka-Pukara.

Cusco South Valley – Half-Day Tour

Discover South Valley Tour Cusco, Visit Pikillacta,Tipon & Andahuaylillas ,combines the natural beauty, Inca architecture.

Maras and Moray – Half-Day Tour

The tour to Maras and Moray is a journey through one of the most beautiful landscapes of Cusco. Cross the circular Inca terraces of Moray.

Sacred Valley VIP – Full-Day Tour

Full day tour to the Super Sacred Valley, the best way to visit the highlights of the Sacred Valley in one day.

Horseback Riding Cusco – Half-Day Tour

We offer horseback riding in Cusco - Peru, the most important tourist attraction in South America. enjoy your tours

Rainbow Mountain Tour from Cusco- Full Day

A spectacular Tour to the Mountain of Seven Colors awaits you !! Take a hike to Vinicunca, one of the new natural attractions in Cusco.

Trek Palcoyo Mountain – Full-Day

Tour to Palccoyo, a new route with beautiful views of the colored mountains and above all less difficult than the route to Vinicunca.

Pallay Puncho Mountain Trek

Pallay Poncho is an impressive mountain range with sharp points, geological formations sculpted by the passage of time; resembling an Andean poncho.

Humantay Lake Full Day Trek

Enjoy the Humantay Lake Trek for one day, where you get to see a beautiful turquoise lake situated up high in the Andean mountain range.

Chimur Hot Springs – Full-Day Tour

The Chimur Thermal Baths is a cozy tourist place that offers a pleasant and relaxing stay due to the composition of medicinal substances.

Huacarpay Birdwatching Tour

This tour is for all people who love birds and want to have an unforgettable experience in The Huacarpay lagoon, in Cusco.

Q’eswachaka Inca Bridge – Full-Day Tour

Is located on the Apurimac River Q’eswachaka is the last Inca Bridge, where every year more than 1000 people, together to renew the bridge

Lares Hot Springs – Full-Day Tour

These thermal baths are a tourist attraction in the region, the temperature of these waters varies between 36o and 44oC and is considered medicinal waters.

Waqrapukara – Full-Day Tour

Waqra Pukara could have been the fortress, sanctuary, astronomical observatory, they are interpretations of this monument of classical Inca architecture.

Chinchero & Poc Poc Waterfalls – Full-Day Tour

The experience of the Poc Poc Waterfalls full day hike, gives us the opportunity to know part of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Experiential Tourism Misminay Community – Full-Day

One of the most incredible experiences of a trip is to be able to live an unforgettable experience in a high Andean community ...

Experiential Tourism Misminay Community – 2 Days

SACRED VALLEY TOURS

Sacred Valley Tours is a licensed tour agency based in Cusco. Above all, we are specialists and organize the best private Sacred Valley Tour from Cusco . With our personalized services, you fully enjoy the Sacred Valley of the Incas along with expert tour guides. The Sacred Valley Tour  shows ancient Inca sites, traditional markets, scenic villages and stunning Andean landscapes.

In addition, we can combine the Sacred Valley Tour with activities, such as hiking, biking and even rafting. Other popular tours like, Short Inca Trail and Machu Picchu Tour can start from the Sacred Valley. But the combination of Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour is the best option to visit the wonder or the world. 

Unlike other agencies, we offer the best Sacred Valley Tour with longer stops at visited places complemented with historical information. Most of our private day trips begin in Cusco, however, others can start at sacred valley locations. For instance, Sacred Valley Tour from Ollantaytambo . Our Sacred Valley Private Tour always includes a pick up and drop off at any hotel of your choice. Discover the magnificent Sacred Valley of the Incas with expert tour guides by your side.  

Sacred Valley Private Tours

Our private sacred valley tours let you explore the hidden gems of the incas from Cusco.

Sacred Valley Tour from Cusco Airport

Sacred valley Tour from Ollantaytambo

Explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas

Best sacred valley private tours.

Choose the best private tours to Sacred Valley of the Incas from Cusco or combine with a trip to Machu Picchu by train.

What Makes Sacred Valley Tours Unique and Different?

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All members of our team are passionate about their work and always ready to help. Above all, we enjoy travelling and believe that Cusco is a great destination to visit.

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It is important to us that you have an incredible experience in Peru. However, it is more rewarding when we preserve the environment and the local communities.

Tailor-made Holidays

Our tours can be customized or designed completely from scratch. Moreover, our travel experts have the resources to make your dream holiday a reality.

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Customer Reviews

We pride ourselves on taking care of every detail of our Sacred Valley Tour services for our clients. The full satisfaction of our travelers is our best reward, who often recommend us to relatives or friends when planning a trip to Peru.

What a wonderful family trip we just finished this July and I can’t thank enough Mr. David who put together provided 4-day awesome itinerary covering Sacred valley, Machu Picchu hike and Cusco city tour. They are so committed and they know what they are doing. All the tickets to hiking, train tickets, bus tickets & entrance tickets are arranged well in advance so no waiting in line anywhere just zoom through. Thank you David for treating us so well and it was dream come true for us. Excellent work keep it up!

Written July 31, 2023

Amazing tour!

We had such an amazing time on our trip to Machu Picchu, our guide was so nice and made us so comfortable and relax. He had so much knowledge about the place and lots of tips for where to take the best pics! So much fun would highly recommend them!

Written February 20, 2023

Amazing Experience!

After a lot of careful research, we decided to ask Sacred Valley Company to prepare a full Peru Itinerary for the three of us. The package included the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and the Rainbow Mountain.

I would highly recommend them for all of your other Peru package vacations.

Written March 2, 2023

Machu Picchu 1 day Tour, Trips From Cusco | Machu Picchu full day

Machu picchu tour 1 day | machu picchu full day.

At CuscoPeru.com, we have a team of experienced professionals in tourism ready to offer all their knowledge and the best service to the passengers, to make their visit to Cusco an unforgettable memory. We invite you to enjoy the  Tour in Machu Picchu and recharge your energies in this magical city of the Incas.  Feel at comfort knowing  that we will have everything organized for you on this journey to Cusco and Machu Picchu FULL DAY.

MACHU PICCHU FULL DAY

To provide a personalized service, CuscoPeru.com will take care of transporting you very early from your hotel to the train station in Ollantaytambo. in Ollantaytambo in a trip of 01 hour and 30 min. By handling small groups, the service is more personalized and comfortable for our clients. At Ollantaytambo station, you will board the train that will take you to the town of Aguas Calientes, a journey of approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes by train. During this route, you will enjoy beautiful landscapes and panoramic views until you reach the town of Aguas Calientes.

Our guide will be waiting for you at the train station in Aguas Calientes to take you to the bus terminal where we will board the bus that will take us to the Archaeological Sanctuary of Machu Picchu . The bus journey takes approximately 25 minutes and will take you through winding roads that allow you to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, until you finally reach the citadel of Machu Picchu . You will be amazed by this monument considered one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and immediately our professional tour guide will begin the tour, connecting you with the sacredness of this Archaeological Wonder, so that you can learn more about the history, the involvement of engineers, and the architecture of the Inca City of Machu Picchu.

After concluding the Machu Picchu tour , you will board the bus back to the town of Aguas Calientes. Once in Aguas Calientes, you will have free time to have your meals. At the appropriate time, you should head to the train station to return to the Ollantaytambo station. Once in Ollantaytambo, you will board the transportation service of CuscoPeru.com for your return to the city of Cusco and your hotel, thus ending the wonderful experience of visiting Machu Picchu in 1 day.

• Pre-tour information one day before the trip, in Cusco.
• Personalized transfers from your hotel in Cusco to the train station in Ollantaytambo, round trip.
• Train ticket Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes, round trip.
• Bus ticket Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu, round trip.
• Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu in the Main Circuit 2.
• Professional guided tour in English - Spanish (ask for other languages with additional prices only for private service).

NOT INCLUDED:

• Hotel in Cusco.
• Huayna Picchu entrance (consult availability).
• Other services not mentioned.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

• Bring your identification document or passport with which you purchased the entrance ticket.
• Arrive at the train station half an hour in advance.
• Do not carry much luggage; only 5 kg are allowed on the train.
• We suggest bringing a small backpack along with your camera, wearing a hat, using sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and carrying a water bottle.
• Wear suitable and non-slippery shoes for climbing the stairs at Machu Picchu.
• After the guided tour at Machu Picchu, enjoy the magical moment, open your arms, and recharge your energy.

Map of Circuit 2: Machu Picchu Full Day

When you purchase the Machu Picchu Full day tour, you acquire your entrance ticket to Machu Picchu with circuit 2, according to availability.

Itinerary Tour Machu Picchu 1 day | Machu Picchu full day

To provide a personalized service, CuscoPeru.com will take you early from your hotel in Cusco, for a journey of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes in our private transportation to the train station located in the town of Ollantaytambo. Here, you will board the train that passes through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, on a route that goes from the Andes to the edge of the jungle in Aguas Calientes. This fantastic train journey takes approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes. Upon arriving in this small town, our representative will be waiting to assist you in taking the bus that will transport you to the Machu Picchu Archaeological Sanctuary. The bus journey takes 25 minutes.

Finally, we will arrive at the historical sanctuary to begin our Tour to Machu Picchu. Recharge your energy, open your arms, and feel the magic of this ancient place. We will enjoy walking through these ancient vestiges of Inca history, architecture, and engineering. It is undoubtedly a moment you have eagerly awaited. After the unforgettable experience, the guided tour lasts between 2 to 3 hours, allowing you to get to know this marvelous place in more depth. Please note that the visiting time is currently limited. Inside the Machu Picchu Citadel , we will learn about the different zones it was divided into, its population distribution, and interesting details like its ability to be self-sustained despite being isolated.

After the tour, we return by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you will have time to have lunch and explore the town, which has many restaurants and craft shops. Here, we will board the return train to Ollantaytambo, where our representative will be waiting for you with a sign and your name written. Our transportation will take you back to your hotel in Cusco, concluding our 1-day tour to Machu Picchu.

• Train schedules to Machu Picchu may vary depending on train availability.
• Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu tend to sell out quickly, so book your trip in advance.

HOW MUCH IT COSTS?

• For reservations made 3 months in advance, ask for a special discount.
• For groups larger than 4 people, please contact us for a special price..

WHY TO CHOOSE CUSCOPERU.COM?

Check our offers.

EXPEDITION or VOYAGER Train Guided tour in Machu Picchu in group. Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu Main Circuit.

VISTADOME or 360° train Guided tour in Machu Picchu in group. Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu Main Circuit.

VISTADOME OBSERVATORY Guided tour in Machu Picchu in group. Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu Main Circuit.

VISTADOME or 360° train Guided tour in Machu Picchu private. Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu Main Circuit.

VISTADOME OBSERVATORY Guided tour in Machu Picchu private. Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu Main Circuit.

• TRAINS: Our service includes the EXPEDITION or VOYAGER Train and can be upgraded to VISTADOME Train category with an additional charge of 50 USD per person return only..
• We can also offer the VISTADOME OBSERVATORY Train , with an additional charge of 90 USD per person for a round trip.
• HOTELS: You can choose packages based on the type of Hotel, you can also opt for Hotels that are not listed in our offer, before confirming you must inform us of the hotel you prefer and we will add it to the package.
• PRIVATE: Consult with one of our advisors if you want any of the services in private.

To start your reservation process please send us the following information:

• Name and surname:
• Passport No.:
• Nationality:
• Date of birth:
• It is very important your information about your hotel in the city of Cusco, so we can pick you up there at the beginning of the tour..
• Payment by credit card VISA or MASTERCARD through our system www.cuscoperu.com/payment the system charges an additional 5% (SSL secure system and foreign bank transfer fees).
• Sending the advance via Western Union coordinating with our sales representative and sending the request to [email protected], then you must send us the MTCN code of your deposit.
• Payment via deposit to our company's account at BBVA Banco Continental Cuenta Corriente: Account Code. Interbank: (CCI) 011 201 000100028495 18 - CUSCOPERU.COM Tour Operator SRL - SWIFT CODE: BCONPEPL - you must add U$89.00 which is the charge that our bank makes to our account for international transfer and administrative expenses, you should also consult your bank about the additional amount that you will be charged.
• Payment by credit card VISA - MASTERCARD with the PAYPAL system generating the payment order that we would send you from CuscoPeru.com e-commerce If you accept this option you will have a 7% surcharge.

Machu Picchu 1 day Tour Gallery

MACHU PICCHU, A PLACE FOR GREAT EXPERIENCES.

• Recently, a couple chose Machu Picchu as their honeymoon destination and the CuscoPeru.com team was responsible for making everything perfect. At first, our passengers had many doubts, since it was the first time, they had visited this marvelous citadel; Incertitude such as the entrance ticket to Machu Picchu, the Ollantaytambo train schedule and many other details that, like every traveler at some point in their journey, they need to know. Doubts were resolved quickly and the trip was a dream for them.
• A beautiful family, made up of dad, mom and 03 kids of 10 -13 -15 years came to know Machu Picchu a family dream, which we knew to complement in previous days with other activities such as horseback riding in Cusco, a bicycle trip through Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain in addition to other activities that made all family members completely happy.
• We received recently a very famous speaker who arrived on the first flight to Cusco and had to return on the last flight. The experience was fantastic for Him and for us an important challenge. We had to accommodate the schedules in the safest way so that it arrives on time on their return flight.

EVERYTHING YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE TRAVELING TO MACHU PICCHU

We know you have many questions, traveling to Machu Picchu is easy, but you should consider certain important points to make your experience in Machu Picchu the best.

What is the difference between the 4 circuits of Machu Picchu?

Machu Picchu has 4 New Circuits designed to enhance your experience without overcrowding certain areas of the archaeological site. We invite you to watch the following video where we explain more about these circuits.

Circuit 1 allows you to observe the Guardian's House, near the spot where you can take the classic photo of Machu Picchu. From here, you can also see other points of the citadel, including the Temple of the Sun viewpoint, the Granitic Chaos, and the Pisonay Square.

Circuit 2 is the most comprehensive and recommended, as it covers Circuit 1 and allows you to take the iconic photo that will immortalize your trip. Additionally, you get to enjoy many more archaeological sites such as the Temple Square, Intiwatana, and the Sacred Rock.

Circuit 3 goes through the lower part of Machu Picchu, offering a different view of the Inca citadel. It also allows you to observe archaeological areas such as the qolqas, the agricultural zone, and the Inca House complex.

Circuit 4 is more comprehensive than Circuit 3, as it covers Circuit 3 and gives you the opportunity to observe symbolic places such as the ceremonial fountains, the set of water mirrors, and the Temple of the Condor.

We invite you to watch the following video where we explain more about these circuits:

VIDEO ABOUT THE NEW CIRCUITS AT MACHU PICCHU

Is it better to enter Machu Picchu in the afternoon or in the morning?

There are 9 entry times to Machu Picchu, which you can choose depending on the time you arrive in Aguas Calientes. Below are the details of the schedules:

Entry times at 6, 7, 8, and 9 in the morning to Machu Picchu For these schedules, it's necessary to depart very early from the city of Cusco, considering that the vehicle journey takes 1 hour and 30 minutes to the train station in Ollantaytambo. From there, we will take the train that will take us to the town of Aguas Calientes in a 1 hour and 50 minutes train ride. If you don't like waking up very early, you can travel a day before and stay in Aguas Calientes to avoid getting up too early.

During these times, there are not many people, and the visit is calm and pleasant, offering a different perspective compared to other schedules. You will also be able to appreciate the Intiwatana at this time.

The schedules at 10, 11, 12, and 1: It is likely that the influx of people will be more abundant. If you were planning to take the classic photo without people around, it might be a bit more challenging. The sun will be at its highest point, shining directly on the sanctuary with great intensity. However, it also has its charm, as the sky will be clear, and you will have a better view of Machu Picchu.

In the afternoon, at 1 and 2 in the afternoon: Some consider this the best time to visit Machu Picchu due to the sunset between the mountains, covering the citadel of Machu Picchu with its last rays. It's a perfect panorama for photography, and the weather is cooler. You can travel on the same day; there's no need to be in Aguas Calientes the day before, but keep in mind that you will also arrive in Cusco a bit late, around 10 to 11 at night.

Can I bring luggage into Machu Picchu?

You are not allowed to carry luggage; you can only enter with a small backpack measuring 40x35x20 cm (16x14x8 inches) to carry small personal items.

What can I take to Machu Picchu?

• Identification document used to register for entry to Machu Picchu.
• Windbreaker jacket.
• Rain poncho (according to the season).
• Trekking shoes.
• Insect repellent.
• Lightweight clothing.
• Sunglasses.

What can´t I take to Machu Picchu and what are the prohibitions?

• Carrying backpacks, bags, or purses larger than 40x35x20 cm (16x14x8 inches).
• Entering with food.
• Entering with any type of alcoholic beverage or while intoxicated.
• Carrying walking sticks, umbrellas, parasols, portable seats, tripods, camera or cellphone stabilizers, or any other extension or stabilization element for filming and/or photography.
• Drones are prohibited in Machu Picchu.
• Entering with animals, except for guide dogs.
• Feeding domestic or wild animals.
• Entering with any type of aerosols.
• Engaging in any type of graffiti.

Learn more at www.machupicchu.gob.pe about the restrictions when visiting Machu Picchu.

What is the best season to visit Machu Picchu?

The visit to Machu Picchu is available all year round, but many consider the months of May, June, July, August, September, and October as the perfect season to travel to Machu Picchu. During these months, the sun shines brightly in the mornings and evenings, with a refreshing breeze.

In November and December , the rainy season begins again, and the landscapes gradually turn lush green while the evenings become colder. Although some days may surprise you with rain, the tours continue as usual. Machu Picchu takes on a different appearance, with mist covering the sanctuary, adding a touch of mystery as it dissipates in the air. While exploring Machu Picchu, it might get very cloudy or even rain at some point, but you can still enjoy your tour with a poncho or waterproof jacket. Many visitors actually enjoy visiting Machu Picchu in the rain more than on a sunny day because it offers a unique perspective of this wonder of the modern world. If you are not a fan of rain, it is more likely to clear up after 11 am, increasing your chances of finding Machu Picchu with clearer skies.

In January, February, and March, the rains are more frequent. During this period, it is considered the low tourist season, which has a significant advantage if you plan to travel during these months, as there will be fewer crowds. On the other hand, the advantage is that the landscapes are lush and the weather is cooler compared to other seasons. If you have already decided to travel during this season, we advise you to buy your tickets to Machu Picchu for the time slots starting from 11 am, as this increases the probability of finding Machu Picchu with clearer skies. The average number of rainy days per week varies from 3 to 4 days, and some days the rain may be light but last the entire day, while other days it might only rain for a few hours but with greater intensity. In the early morning hours, Machu Picchu is usually cloudy during these months.

Keep in mind that we are in the Andes, and the weather here is very unpredictable. Nevertheless, the information provided aims to give you a close approximation of the climate during each season. We look forward to your visit, CuscoPeru.com will have everything organized for you, and we have many satisfied passengers who have enjoyed the experiences and services we provide all year round.

How far in advance should I book my ticket to Machu Picchu?

Although it is possible to reserve your ticket to Machu Picchu one day before your visit, the most recommended approach is to make your reservation at least one or two months in advance . The number of entries is limited, and it is advisable to book in advance. If you plan to visit Huayna Picchu ( WAYNAPICCHU ), consider reserving it three months before your visit.

These recommendations are essential to ensure that your experience at Machu Picchu is the best, especially considering that popular tickets, such as the Machu Picchu circuit 1-2 and Huayna Picchu, sell out very quickly.

In case you couldn't book in advance, the solution for travelers is to purchase tickets with alternative circuits, such as circuit 4 or 3 . With these options, you will still get to know Machu Picchu, but you won't be able to take the classic photo or visit some specific spots. You will have the chance to explore the temples and see Machu Picchu from the lower areas.

During certain times of the year, it might be challenging to secure last-minute tickets due to high demand. It can be uncomfortable to try and reserve your entry, so our recommendation is to plan well in advance and get in touch with our agency to ensure your visit to Machu Picchu. Contact CuscoPeru.com, and we will be delighted to assist you.

What recommendations should I take to prevent altitude sickness?

The most recommended way to prevent altitude sickness is gradual acclimatization, which means ascending moderately to adapt to the decreasing oxygen levels as you gain altitude. We advise spending at least one day in Cusco without engaging in extreme physical exertion to acclimate to the high altitude.

Taking care of your diet is also important. Eating light, easily digestible foods will aid in the acclimatization process.

Staying hydrated is crucial; make sure to drink at least 2 to 3 liters of water while you're in Cusco. Get a minimum of 8 hours of sleep daily before your tours to keep your body rested and avoid excessive physical exertion. As a natural remedy, you can drink mate or herbal infusions that aid digestion during your stay.

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Maras Moray Tours, Best Tours In Cusco

Maras moray tours, cultural inmersion, maras moray tour packages, maras moray tours, cusco tours.

Maras Moray is fantastic inca place and exelent destination to made tours in the sacred Valley of the incas is stretching between Cusco and Machu Picchu, significance in the Andean region. Bustling markets, hillside Inca ruins, and centuries-old salt mines are among the attractions you can explore during our small-group and private Sacred Valley

Maras Moray Tours

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We invite you to enjoy the Maras Moray tour and recharge your energies in this magical Inca place.

Maras Moray Packages

Cultural inmersion, day tours cusco, our best maras moray tours included incas sacred valley.

Discover the fascinating Moray, the enigmatic Inca ruins and Maras the ancient Inca Salt Mines, including their history in Cusco; learn more explore the beautiful Sacred Valley of the Incas.

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Chinchero with Moray - Salt Mines Full day

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Cusco Day Tours

Discover the magic and mystery of Cusco with our exclusive day tours. Whether you have only half a day or a full day to explore, we have the perfect experience waiting for you. Immerse yourself in the rich history and stunning beauty of this ancestral region with our adventure tours.

Cusco City Tour – Half Day: Ideal for those with limited time, this half-day tour takes you through the heart of Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire. Discover ancient temples, impressive plazas, and the vibrant local culture as you delve into the secrets this millennia-old city has to offer.

Maras Moray – Half Day: Experience Inca engineering and natural beauty on a trip to Maras and Moray. Marvel at the astonishing circular agricultural terraces of Moray, an ancient Inca agricultural laboratory. Then, visit the stunning Maras salt pans, where salt has been traditionally harvested since pre-Inca times.

Sacred Valley – Full Day: Dedicate a full day to exploring the Sacred Valley of the Incas, an area of unparalleled beauty and historical importance. From the towering archaeological complexes of Pisac and Ollantaytambo to the peaceful charm of local communities, this tour offers a comprehensive view of life in the valley that was the heart of the Inca Empire.

Each tour is designed to offer you an unforgettable experience in Cusco, combining visits to must-see archaeological sites, cultural interactions, and breath-taking panoramic views. Join us and let Cusco reveal its ancient secrets and modern wonders to you!

Cusco City Tour – Half Day

Maras Moray – Half Day

Sacred Valley – Full Day

Check 4, 5 & 7 day inca trail availability, get in touch, alpaca expeditions recognitions, iso (international organization for standardization).

In the pursuit to stand out from the rest, Alpaca Expeditions has obtained four ISOs plus our carbon footprint certificate to date. These achievements result from our efforts to implement the internationally-recognized integrated management system. They also represent our commitment to all of our clients and staff of operating sustainability and responsibility in every way possible.

World Travel Awards

Alpaca Expeditions is internationally recognized as a leading tourism company in Peru. As proof, we have been awarded the World Travel Award for Peru´s Best Tour Operator 2021 for the second time.

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Our goal at Alpaca Expeditions is to create the best experience for all of our clients. We create journeys that are to be remembered for a lifetime. Journeys you can be proud of and can share with everybody around you.

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Hotel to Hotel service

Regarding the transportation provided by Alpaca Expeditions, we are committed to delivering a quality service. We strive to ensure that passengers feel supported throughout their journey. To achieve this, we coordinate closely with our guides and representatives to ensure timely pick-up at the start of their tours. Additionally, we have representatives responsible for escorting our passengers to their hotels at the conclusion of any tour.

Our drivers are not only trained in customer service but also come properly uniformed, and many are fluent in English.

Typically, all transportation types are included in each of our services. For instance, if you have booked a trekking tour, we will pick you up early, typically between 4 AM and 5 AM. When visiting Cusco, it's important to note that traffic here is generally moderate. However, there are peak traffic times, such as between 7 AM and 8 AM, which coincide with school hours, and in the evening between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Therefore, if you have a flight during these times, it's crucial to be at the airport at least 2 hours in advance. The drivers of Alpaca Expeditions ensure their vehicles are prepared with all necessities before each service. They are acutely aware that delays can lead to missed trains, flights, or other connections. Consequently, they are always more than punctual, arriving at least 10 minutes before the scheduled time for any service, understanding the responsibility they carry in executing these tasks.

Personal Porter of 7KG

Remember that Alpaca Expeditions offers an extra 7 kg allowance for your personal belongings on any of our tours. We include a personal porter who is responsible for carrying your duffel bag without any additional fee. You will not have access to your duffel bag until you reach your evening campsite. The bag should not exceed 7 kg, which includes 4 kg for clothes and 3 kg for your sleeping bag and sleeping mat.

Each Alpaca Expeditions porter is paid directly after each trek, allowing them to return home more quickly. They receive better wages than our competitors, health insurance, and all their equipment free of charge, including hiking boots, pants, jerseys, fleeces, jackets, hats, flashlights, sleeping bags, and high-quality food. We ensure each of our porters has a comfortable bed in a pleasant room to sleep in before and after each trek. We also visit the communities they live in, providing toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, and other necessary supplies to their families, along with books for their children.

This is just the beginning for us, and we are always looking for ways to do more. While the government allows each porter to carry up to 25 kg, we limit this to 20 kg to prioritize their health and safety. Each porter carries up to 15 kg of company equipment and 5 kg of personal items. This is why it is crucial to keep your personal duffel bag weight under our 7 kg limit. You might see other companies allowing their porters to carry more than the allotted weight, but at Alpaca Expeditions, we strictly adhere to these limits to ensure our porters' well-being.

Clases de Cocina

Alpaca Expeditions offers its passengers the chance to experience local cooking. We aim to immerse trekkers in Inca life by walking them through the original Inca paths and teaching them about Inca culture. Food is a significant part of Inca life, making it a special element in any tour or trek with Alpaca Expeditions.

In 2022, Alpaca Expeditions introduced a cooking class as part of each of our treks, conducted by our amazing trekking chefs and interpreted by our guides.

We will transform your dining tent into a makeshift kitchen, providing all the necessary supplies to prepare a Peruvian specialty. Your chef will guide you step by step through the process of making a traditional Peruvian meal, such as Lomo Saltado, and share some essential mountain cooking tips.

Peru is recognized as a top culinary destination, largely thanks to the popularity of our renowned beef dish, Lomo Saltado. This is most often the meal you will learn to cook, but there is also the opportunity to learn how to prepare other dishes like traditional Peruvian ceviche or even our signature drink, the pisco sour.

Cooking Class on the Inca Trail: These classes are voluntary and designed to be a fun, educational experience. Our clients consistently marvel at the amazing ability of our chefs to create culinary magic on a mountaintop. As you learn to prepare and cook Peruvian specialties, you will also see firsthand how such elaborate meals can be created on a small campsite stove.

Enjoy a cooking class in the mountains and be sure to take plenty of photos, just in case your friends won't believe your incredible experience.

Satellite Phones

The best way to hike in the mountains of Peru is to completely disconnect from technology, especially the internet and cell phones. The most impressive and exciting aspect is the opportunity to experience the true and wonderful nature that we often miss when we are at home, watching TV or absorbed in our cell phones during our leisure time. The feeling of being disconnected from work and the daily routine left at home is incredible.

However, this remoteness means limited access to emergency resources. That's why Alpaca Expeditions has invested in satellite phones for every trek.

We are prepared to assist you in case of any emergency, particularly health-related issues. For this reason, Alpaca Expeditions has invested in satellite phones, as they are one of the most crucial tools for any operator trekking in remote areas where telephone or television signals are absent. This means that every guide on our treks will be equipped with a fully charged satellite phone as well as radios. While these are primarily for emergencies, we allow our clients to use them at any time.

We ask that you cover the cost, which is $2.50 per minute. This fee can be paid in cash at our office or via PayPal once you have completed the trek.

Being just a phone call away from any doctor, hospital, or friend helps everyone feel assured of their safety. Radios, which all our guides carry, have limited reach, so Alpaca Expeditions includes satellite phones to ensure that we can connect no matter where we are on the mountain.

Portable private toilet

We understand that our clients will need restroom facilities at various times and locations during their journey. Along the Inca Trail, there are restrooms available, particularly those belonging to the communities near the trail. Alpaca Expeditions provides portable toilets to enhance this service, which will be set up at each meal site or campsite.

As with any mountain trip where we are exposed to nature, it is possible to use natural areas as restrooms. However, it is crucial to be mindful of the waste we generate, such as toilet paper or wet wipes used for cleaning. These should be carried with us and not discarded on the ground or left along the trail. Remember, the Inca Trail is a protected area overseen by a government institution. In places where garbage bins are unavailable, particularly at our camps, we provide special plastic bags for waste. Our porter team will be responsible for carrying out our waste.

Please be aware that although there are designated bathrooms for men and women, in practice, both genders often use the same facilities. Functionally, there is no significant difference between men's and women's bathrooms. Therefore, it is common for people of all genders to use whichever bathroom is available.

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Cusco Tours & Trips

Find your adventure through Cusco. Explore the city and travel to the most sought-after destinations in Peru , including the ancient city of Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley and later, you can learn more about the rich history and culture of the country.

250+ Cusco tour packages with 7,622 reviews

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Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in 2 Days

Machu Picchu is amazing but Sara’s guidance makes it even better. She is very friendly, knowledgeable and gives us a lot of freedom to hike our own pace and to take pictures. Plus, she is the only female tour guide you can find along the way. And it’s not that they are not capable or don’t want to do it.

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

• Mountain Hikes

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 8 days

The tour and guide was above our expectations. Fantastic value for money and many memorable moments.

7 Day Cusco Travel Package: Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Humantay Lake, and Rainbow Mountain.

Waldir was amazing in coordinating the tour, and I really enjoyed Peru! Thumbs up to the team :)

Cusco and Machu Picchu 3-Day Tour

This is a well planned tour. The accommodations were excellent with a caring staff. Please, go on this tour.

• Local Living

Inca Jungle to Machu Picchu - 3 Days

I really dont have the right words to express the 3 Day Inca Jungle Tour. In a nutshell, it was amazing. I was very fortunate to have Jhimmy as my tourguide and so thankful for that. He came to my accomodations the night before the tour and introduced himself and went over all the expectations for the next few days. Jhimmy is knowlegable, thoughtful, and his love for his people and Peru just showed through when he talked about the Inca history. I highly enjoyed the tour and if your lucky get Jhimmy as your guide. Everything from mountain biking, white water rafting, hiking, food was magnificent.. I recommend this tour to anyone looking for a real action packed adventure and memorable experience. I wish I had more days in Peru. I'm missing it so much.

Ultimate Salkantay Trek 5D/5N with glass cabañas & hobbit house + hot tub jacuzzi.

The Ultimate Salkantay Trek 5D/5N with glass cabañas & hobbit house + hot tub jacuzzi was ABSOLUTELY amazing. Would recommend this trek to everyone. Our tour guides Javier and Victor were phenomenal. You could ask any question and they knew the answer and if you needed anything? They would immediately take care of it. We woke up everyday with an amazing view and a cup of hot tea. We were always the first one to arrive at a beautiful location to take pictures without any other hikers blocking the view. The food was delicious! Go book this trek if you love hiking, beautiful views and an adventure.

Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 Days with Camping

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu + Rainbow Mountain 8 days

William, Sarah, the chefs and porters made this experience absolutely unforgettable. William & Sarah were constantly making me feel safe on the trek & were truly knowledgeable. They even made me a birthday cake on the side of the mountain and surprised me with it. I would absolutely recommend this trip to anyone & will never forget it!

06 Days Cusco Machu Picchu - Humantay Lake And Rainbow Mountain

Love tour guide, knowledgeable, good English.

7 Day Inca Jungle Adventure To Machu Picchu with Mountain Bike, Rafting, Zip Line and Trek.

This was an amazing adventure. Johnathan was a very knowledgeable guide. The trip exceed my expectations.

Hiking The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu & Sacred Valley

We were doing the 4 day trip to inca Trail the last year and it was an absolutely amazing experience. My husband and I were hesitating whether to book with one or with another agency, but in the end we decided to trust in Inkayni Peru Tours and we cannot regret about this decision. I was overwhelmed by the friendliness of all the people in Inkayni Team. We did the tour package with Pedro as the guide and Mario as the chef. Both of them were incredibly nice, funny and the food was amazing! Sofia cooked so nice and tasteful. I still dream of his food! Likewise, I want to mentioned that this agency is really trustful and reliable. They stick to their words and give you the best food and the best hotel to sleep in Cusco. Thanks for everything and thanks for giving me the time of my life Inkayni Team ????

7 Day Andean Experience Through the Living Culture of the Incas

Our group was amazing and so was our guide Raul. He was really patient with me always helping me when I struggled. I loved his stories about the Inca culture and the legends. The food was incredible at restaurants. Our driver could take care of us in a bet way. We also had the best weather so really lucky because we could see the blue skies. Altogether was my highlight from Peru. Thank you INKAYNI PERU TOURS ????

The Inca Trail

Absolutely one in a million, friends for life!

Peru: Inca Jungle & Rainbow Mountain Trek

This tour was beyond fabulous! It had the perfect combination of culture, sites and activities. Our guide, Edi, always went above and beyond for our group...and also has the best laugh in Peru! I would definitely book through them again.

Classic Inca Trail Trek 4D/3N to Machu Picchu (Group service )

The tour was awesome! The company was great in communicating with us, answered all our questions and were very clear about what they can and cannot do. They also carry 4kg of our stuff which is quite generous in comparison with other companies. On the trek, the guides were awesome! Jaime was very attentive, knowledgeable and made sure to show us all the Inca ruins and explain the history. It was a pleasure listening to him and getting to know more about Inca history. Elix was very caring, made sure to keep an eye on all of us and to not leave anyone behind. He always encouraged us to keep going and would make sure the slowest in the group were not left behind and not walking alone. It was a pleasure being taken care of by Jaime and Elix :) Eulogio, the chef, was one of the highlights of the trek! The food was exquisite and we all enjoyed the dishes he made for us and the cake at the end of the trek. Tasty, filling, and gave us energy, Eulogio's cooking was restaurant-standard! Last but not least, the porters! These guys were super heroes!! They carried everything for us throughout the 4 days and made us as comfortable as possible by always being ahead of us, setting up our tents, and packing our stuff the next day! Would definitely go to Alpaca Adventures when we come back to Peru in the future :)

What people love about Cusco Tours

Excellent trip just a pity Tekexperience changed the date so I missed out climbing Montana. Frank was a first class guide.

Tour radar continues to connect us with the best local guides for our adventures. This is the second trip we booked through them. In this instance, Trexexperience for the Inca trail trek to Machu Pichu plus some other day trips was the vendor they connected us with. The guides were more then knowledgeable and helped us through an unexpected health issue with knowledge and care. The accomodations, transportation and food were also excellent. I will continue to use Tour Radar as a portal for future adventures. They do their homework and only connect you with the best!

Waldir did an amazing job to make sure we were informed and taken care of. Our guides were fantastic, informative and fun! We love Peru- especially the Cusco area! We definitely will be back and spend more time.

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ISPS HANDA - CHAMPIONSHIP - Day three digest

Everything you need to know from day three in Japan.

Casey Jarvis edged ahead (with a bit of luck), Sebastian Söderberg was landing big birds and Keita Nakajima was hitting it miles in round three of the ISPS HANDA - CHAMPIONSHIP .

Here is everything you need to know from Moving Day at Taiheiyo Club Gotemba Course.

Jarvis opens up narrow lead

Jarviswill take a one-shot lead into the final round after an adventurous bogey-free 64 on day three. The South African was three shots back after completing his second round early in the morning but was in a share of the lead at the turn after making four birdies on the front nine. He rode his luck at times on the way home but two further gains moved him to 13 under and gave him a slim advantage over Germany's Yannik Paul, who signed for a 68. Swede Söderberg, locals Nakajima and Ryosuke Kinoshita, China's Li Haotong and Frenchman Tom Vaillant were then at 11 under, with 16 players within three shots of the lead.

How's your luck?

After getting a fortunate bounce out of the trees on the 11th, Jarvis was at it again on the 14th. But there was nothing lucky about his second shot.

What. A. Shot.

From 287 yards to six feet. Take a bow Sebastian.

Nakajima nails one

Crossways tend to be purposely positioned in places players cannot hit. Nobody told Nakajima.

Keita Nakajima's drive is so long it reaches the crossway 🚀 @bmwgolfsport | #DrivenByPassion pic.twitter.com/h8HlHsWGcZ — DP World Tour (@DPWorldTour) April 27, 2024

Viewer discretion advised

We thought it was in as well, Taiki Yoshida. A sickener.

When you think it's about to drop... 😫 #ISPSHandaChampionship pic.twitter.com/GOer9Q7GId — DP World Tour (@DPWorldTour) April 27, 2024

All Blacks and England rugby World Cup winners take on the Luck of the Draw challenge

The Luck of the Draw challenge returns to the DP World Tour with a twist. Unlike as is usual where two golfers take each other on, this time it is the turn of two rugby legends.

DP World Tour Partners

Was Taylor Swift's Eras Tour in Detroit bigger than NFL draft crowds? It's complicated

How does the record-breaking attendance for the 2024 NFL draft on Thursday compare to other peak days in Detroit? It's hard to tell given the crowd estimates are created with different methodologies and geographic boundaries.

Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour visit to the Motor City last June spanned two days, with two sold-out shows of about 60,000 fans each day at Ford Field. But that is the number of people attending the concert, not the number of people estimated visiting Detroit's business district. All told for just one day Swift was in the city, June 10, nearly 350,000 people flocked to Detroit's Central Business District. Motor City Pride Fest was that day at Hart Plaza, too.

That's higher than Thursday's draft crowd of about 275,000 fans — the largest daily NFL draft attendance on record, according to NFL officials. But 275,000 is the NFL's estimate, which is measured differently over a different geographic area. Magnetometers or metal detectors that fans walk through to enter the draft areas provide real-time crowd estimates, according to an e-mail from an NFL spokesperson.

Swift day data was compiled by the Downtown Detroit Partnership from Placer.ai , a firm that analyses foot traffic data from mobile phones.

The daily estimates include the number of people visiting or working in Detroit's Central Business District − an area bounded by the Lodge Freeway (west), Interstate 75 (north), I-375 (east) and the Detroit River (south). The median number of people visiting or working in the central business district between April 1, 2023 and April 7, 2024 was 102,000; foot traffic was higher at about 122,000 people on weekend days.

NFL DRAFT HUB: Latest NFL Draft mock drafts, news, live picks, grades and analysis.

Back to the draft

Thursday's 275,000 attendance figure includes fans spanning from Campus Martius Park to Hart Plaza and satellite viewing areas such as the Corner Ballpark (Detroit's former Tiger Stadium). If the draft attendance in Detroit continues at this pace over the weekend, Detroit is on track to break the 600,000 record for total attendance, previously held by Nashville in 2019.

Nashville previously held the NFL draft record for daily attendance, too, with about 200,000 fans in 2019 .

Within the last year, people visited Detroit for a variety of jam-packed concerts, sporting and other events. Pink set a record for a reserved seat concert at Comerica Park , with more than 45,000 fans and 207,955 people in the central business district; Detroit Lions' home games extended into the playoffs ; Taylor Swift, Beyoncé , Metallica and many more brought thousands of people to downtown Detroit.

Where the record NFL draft in Detroit stands in relation will have to wait until the draft is over and more comparable data is available next week.

Contact Kristi Tanner at [email protected]. Follow her on X @midatalove

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Rock trailblazer Heart reunites for a world tour and a new song

FILE - Nancy Wilson, left, and Ann Wilson, right, of the band Heart perform as Heart is inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame during the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony at the Nokia Theatre on Thursday, April 18, 2013 in Los Angeles. Heart — the pioneering band that melds Nancy Wilson’s shredding guitar with her sister Ann’s powerhouse vocals — is hitting the road this spring for a world tour that Nancy Wilson describes as “the full-on rocker size.” (Photo by Danny Moloshok/Invision/AP, File)

FILE - Nancy Wilson, left, and Ann Wilson of Heart perform on opening night of the Heartbreaker Tour at the Cruzan Amphitheater in West Palm Beach, Fla., June 17, 2013. Heart — the pioneering band that melds Nancy Wilson’s shredding guitar with her sister Ann’s powerhouse vocals — is hitting the road this spring for a world tour that Nancy Wilson describes as “the full-on rocker size.” (Photo by Jeff Daly/Invision/AP, File)

FILE - Nancy and Ann Wilson of the classic rock band Heart perform in concert at the American Music Theater on Monday, March 24, 2014, in Lancaster, Pa. Heart — the pioneering band that melds Nancy Wilson’s shredding guitar with her sister Ann’s powerhouse vocals — is hitting the road this spring for a world tour that Nancy Wilson describes as “the full-on rocker size.” (Photo by Owen Sweeney/Invision/AP, File)

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NEW YORK (AP) — Heart — the pioneering band that melds Nancy Wilson’s shredding guitar with her sister Ann’s powerhouse vocals — is hitting the road this spring and fall for a world tour that Nancy Wilson describes as “the full-on rocker size.”

“I’ve been strengthening. I’ve got my trainer,” she says. “You go one day at a time and you strengthen one workout session at a time. It’s a lot of work, but it’s the only job I know how to do.”

The Rock & Roll Hall of Famers who gave us classic tracks like “Magic Man,” “Crazy on You” and “Alone” will be playing all the hits, some tracks from of their solo albums — like Ann Wilson’s “Miss One and Only” and Nancy Wilson’s “Love Mistake” — and a new song called “Roll the Dice.”

Nancy Wilson, left, and Ann Wilson perform on opening night of the Heartbreaker Tour in West Palm Beach, Fla., June 17, 2013. (Photo by Jeff Daly/Invision/AP, File)

“I like to say we have really good problems because the problem we have is to choose between a bunch of different, really cool songs that people love already,” says Nancy Wilson.

Like “Barracuda,” a sonic burst which first appeared on the band’s second album, “Little Queen” and is one of the band’s most memorable songs.

“You can’t mess with ‘Barracuda.’ It’s just the way it is. It is great. You get on the horse and you ride. It’s a galloping steed of a ride to go on. And for everybody, including the band.”

The tour kicks off Saturday at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina, and will hit cities including Atlanta, Boston, Baltimore, Pittsburgh, Milwaukee, Cleveland, Detroit, as well as the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival and Red Rocks Amphitheater in Morrison, Colorado. International dates include stops in London, Oslo, Berlin, Stockholm, Montreal and Glasgow.

The band’s Royal Flush Tour will have Cheap Trick as the opening act for many stops, but Def Leppard and Journey will join for three stadium dates in Cleveland, Toronto and Boston this summer.

Ann and Nancy Wilson will be filled out by Ryan Wariner (lead and rhythm guitar), Ryan Waters (guitars), Paul Moak (guitars, keyboards and backing vocals), Tony Lucido (bass and backing vocals) and Sean T. Lane (drums).

The tour is the first in several years for Heart, which was rocked by a body blow in 2016 when Ann Wilson’s husband was arrested for assaulting Nancy’s 16-year-old twin sons. Nancy Wilson says that’s all in the past.

“We can take any kind of turbulence, me and Ann, and we’ve always been OK together,” she says. “We’re still steering the ship and happy to do it together. So we’re tight.”

The new tour will take them to Canada, which was warm to the band when they were starting out as what Nancy Wilson calls “a couple of chicks from Seattle.” She recalls Vancouver embracing Heart, and touring in one van across Canada in the dead of winter on two lane highways.

The Wilsons at the American Music Theater on Monday, March 24, 2014, in Lancaster, Pa. (Photo by Owen Sweeney/Invision/AP, File)

The Wilson sisters broke rock’s glass ceiling in the ‘70s and Nancy Wilson says they only had male influences to look to, like Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, the Beatles, the Rolling Stones and the Moody Blues.

Now she says she looks out and loves seeing generations of female rockers. “You have boygenius and you have Billie Eilish and you have Olivia Rodrigo and so many amazing women — Maggie Rogers and Sheryl Crow, who calls us her big influence. And then Billie Eilish might have Sheryl Crow as her influence. So it’s a really nice legacy to pass along. I like to say we’re the OG — the original gangsters — of women and rock.”

Heart has made it into the Rock Hall, won Grammys, sold millions of albums and rocked hundreds of thousands of fans but Nancy Wilson has one place she’d still like to shine.

Next year will mark the 50th anniversary of their debut album, “Dreamboat Annie,” which was the same year that “Saturday Night Live” started. “So we’re actually kind of putting it out there — Heart never played on ‘Saturday Night Live.’ But what about the 50th birthday party with Heart?”

Mark Kennedy is at http://twitter.com/KennedyTwits

Orange crush: Boats packed with revelers tour Amsterdam canals to celebrate the king's birthday

AMSTERDAM — Decked in the national orange color, dancing to music, and eating orange-glazed pastries, many in the Netherlands Saturday are marking King's Day , celebrating the birthday of their monarch who is enjoying a very slight rise in popularity as per a national poll.

As King Willem-Alexander celebrated his 57th birthday with his family in the northeastern city of Emmen, people across the country engaged in the traditional “free markets” held on that day, selling second-hand toys, books and other items. Others toured through the historic canals of the capital, Amsterdam as orange smoke from flares held aloft one boat drifted over vessels of all shapes and sizes jostling for space on a busy canal.

“Celebrating your birthday with your own family is the most beautiful thing you can experience. I’m very happy everybody is back,” Willem-Alexander told Dutch broadcaster NOS during a walkabout in Emmen, 190 kilometers (120 miles) northeast of the Dutch capital.

An annual poll published by the NOS for King’s Day showed Willem-Alexander’s popularity edging up very slightly since last year to 6.6 out of 10. His Argentine-born wife, Queen Maxima, scored 7.1 out of 10 in the poll of 1,015 people, conducted earlier this month.

The royals’ popularity took a hit during the COVID-19 pandemic after Willem-Alexander and his family went on vacation in Greece during a partial lockdown. The royals cut short their break amid national uproar and Willem-Alexander took the unusual step of issuing a video message to express his regret and contrition for the trip.

The king’s three daughters, Amalia, Alexia and Ariane have all spent time out of the country recently — Ariane has been studying in Italy while Alexia has taken a gap year to travel. The eldest and heir to the Dutch throne, Amalia, also returned ahead of the king’s birthday after being forced to leave her student accommodation in Amsterdam and move to Madrid following threats from the criminal underworld.

Amalia, 20, who is studying politics, psychology, law and economics at Amsterdam University, told NOS she was “extremely grateful to everybody who made it possible” for her to live in Spain, where she said she was able to enjoy more freedom than in the Netherlands.

But, she added: “I’m glad to be back.”

Rory McIlroy, Shane Lowry among four teams tied for lead at Zurich Classic

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The teams of Davis Thompson/Andrew Novak, Ryan Brehm/Mark Hubbard and Aaron Rai/David Lipsky matched McIlroy and Lowry at 13-under 131 at TPC Louisiana. They will play best ball Saturday and close with alternate shot Sunday.

Patrick Cantlay and Xander Schauffele, the 2022 winners, were a stroke back with Callum Tarren/David Skinns, Nick Taylor/Adam Hadwin, Zach Johnson/Ryan Palmer, Luke List/Henrik Norlander and Corey Connors/Taylor Pendrith.

McIlroy and Lowry, who opened Thursday with a best-ball 61, overcame Lowry’s mid-round putting woes to close with consecutive birdies. Lowry missed two short birdie putts and a makeable par putt.

“I was just trying to keep him as positive as possible and remind him that I’m here and I’m here to back him up in any way that I can,” McIlroy said.

Shane Lowry’s bunker play leads to birdie at Zurich Classic

Lowry rebounded with a long par-saving putt on No. 4 and blasted out of a greenside bunker to inches on the No. 8 after a mammoth drive by McIlroy.

“I missed a pretty short one on 18 and then another one on the second,” Lowry said. “I started to get a little bit into myself, but to roll that one in (on the fourth hole) was nice, and to play the last few holes the way we did was really nice too.”

Rai and Lipsky held a one-shot lead heading into the 18th hole when Lipsky hit a wild hook that landed out of play. Lipsky was able to make a bogey putt that helped the team retain a share of the lead.

“It was nice for me to make that putt after I double-crossed that drive off the tee,” Lipsky said, “That wasn’t fun, I’ll be honest.”

Cantlay and Schauffele had the best round of the day with a 67. They were tied for the lead heading into 18th but Cantlay’s tee shot found the water, leading to a bogey.

Record crowds turned out for the first two days, which tournament officials attributed to the presence of McIlroy, the world’s No. 2 ranked player who has been enjoying the city’s cuisine. Earlier in the week, he admitted he was planning a quick visit to Bourbon Street in the city’s iconic French Quarter, but as of Friday that had not occurred.

“Maybe this afternoon could be the time,” McIlroy joked after his morning round.