Cusco is a very special destination, as you will discover during this three-day fascinating tour around its main attractions. Visit the imperial city, admire the impressive archaeological sites, and explore some of the most spectacular landscapes on the planet on the way to the magnificent citadel and mountain of Machu Picchu.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Cusco: The ancient Inca capital is a mixture of pre-Columbian ruins and Spanish colonial architecture.
Machu Picchu: The ‘Lost City of the Incas’ is hidden on top of an Andean peak. It offers not only views of the mountain range, but also a glimpse into the Inca past.
Day 1: ARRIVAL CUSCO
Arrive at Cusco Airport and enjoy a transfer to your hotel. Domestic flight from Lima to Cusco must arrive no later than 10:30hrs. Noon arrivals are too late. In the afternoon, the tour begins in Coricancha, also known as the ‘Temple of the Sun’. This was built by order of Inca Pachacuti and, at the arrival of the Spaniards, it became the basis for the construction of the Santo Domingo Convent. Then, visit the Cathedral, the most imposing monument of the Main Square and head to Sacsayhuaman, one of the emblematic buildings of the Incas, erected by Inca Pachacuti in the 15th century. It is an immense fortress built with large stones, whose transfer and assembling is still a mystery. Continue to Qenqo, an archaeological complex of religious use, where agricultural rituals were held. To conclude, you will visit Puka Pukara, located seven kilometres from the city. Puka Pukara, which means ‘red fort’, was an architectural complex of supposed military use with multiple environments, plazas, baths, aqueducts, and towers. It is believed that it was used by the Inca entourage while the leader rested in Tambomachay. When you finish visiting, return to the hotel.
Overnight in Cusco.
Day 2: CUSCO – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO (170km – 4 hrs)
Start the day with breakfast at the hotel and a transfer to the Ollanta train station. Your tour to Machu Picchu begins with a train ride to Aguas Calientes, arriving in approximately an hour and a half. This town is also known as ‘Machu Picchu Pueblo’ and is the last stop before entering the remains of Peru's most important archaeological site. Finally, after a short transfer by bus, you reach Machu Picchu, a masterpiece of engineering and architecture that served as a sanctuary and retreat for the Inca ruler Pachacutec. Machu Picchu, which means ‘Old Mountain’, was named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and is one of the World's New Seven Wonders. At the end of the tour, take the bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch. Finally, return by train to Ollanta Station, and enjoy a comfortable transfer to your hotel in Cusco.
Overnight in Cusco.
Day 3: DEPART CUSCO
Start the day with a tasty breakfast. Afterwards, enjoy a comfortable transfer from your hotel to the airport.
Breakfast included.
Comfortable and light clothing is recommended for visiting the coastal areas of Peru, while for the high Andean area the use of warm clothing is recommended. It is not recommended that visitors wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or short clothes when visiting religious temples or official buildings. Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.
