How to Plan Your 06 Day Cusco – Machu Picchu – Humantay Lake – Rainbow Mountain Tour
If you’re looking for the ultimate Peru experience, look no further than the 06 Day Cusco – Machu Picchu – Humantay Lake – Rainbow Mountain tour. This six-day adventure will take you through the most stunning natural landscapes in the region, as well as the most significant cultural attractions. With hotel transport, tickets, and activities, as well as an English-speaking guide, this tour offers you a hassle-free way to explore the Andean city of Cuzco.
Overview
This extensive six-day tour offers you an opportunity to explore the best of what Peru has to offer, from the captivating city of Cuzco to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, and Humantay Lake. The tour is designed to offer a perfect balance of culture and nature, making it ideal for anyone looking to experience the best of both worlds.
Highlight
During the tour, you’ll get to visit many top highlights, including Cuzco’s colonial and Incan architecture, traditional salt pools at Maras, the Moray Archaeological Site, the town of Chinchero (famous for its weavers), and the Incan citadel of Machu Picchu, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll also get to enjoy stunning Andean hikes to capture views of the blue-green waters of Humantay Lake and the naturally occurring bands of color at Rainbow Mountain.
What’s Included
The 06 Day Cusco – Machu Picchu – Humantay Lake – Rainbow Mountain tour includes:
- 05 nights of accommodation in 03-star hotels, based on double occupancy
- All entries, tickets, and tours mentioned in the itinerary
- Train tickets to Machu Picchu (Incarail or PeruRail)
- Bus transfer to Machu Picchu
Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival in Cusco
- Day 2: Sacred Valley Tour
- Day 3: Machu Picchu Tour
- Day 4: Humantay Lake Hike
- Day 5: Rainbow Mountain Hike
- Day 6: Departure from Cusco
Upon arrival in Cusco, you’ll be greeted by your guide, who will transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to explore the city or relax at your hotel.
On the second day of the tour, you’ll take a guided tour of the sacred valley, including visits to the traditional salt pools at Maras, the Moray Archaeological Site, and the town of Chinchero. You’ll also enjoy a stop for lunch at a local restaurant.
The third day of the tour is devoted to exploring Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. You’ll take the train to Machu Picchu, where you’ll meet your guide for a tour of the site. After the tour, you’ll have free time to explore the ruins on your own before returning to Cusco.
This day starts with a drive to the town of Soraypampa, where you’ll start the hike to the stunning blue-green Humantay Lake. The trek to the lake will take around three hours, and the journey will be well worth it when you see the breathtaking view from the top. After the hike, you’ll return to your hotel in Cusco.
The fifth day of your tour is spent hiking the unparalleled Rainbow Mountain. The trek to the top takes around four hours and is moderately challenging. You’ll have plenty of time to explore the vibrant hues of the mountain and take some memorable photos. After returning to the base camp, you’ll head back to Cusco for one more night.
On the final day of your tour, you’ll check out of your hotel and be transferred to the airport for your flight home or onward journey.
Booking
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to explore the best of Peru. Book the 06 Day Cusco – Machu Picchu – Humantay Lake – Rainbow Mountain Tour here. With so much to see and do, the tour is the perfect way to experience all the beauty and culture that Peru has to offer.
An Insider’s Guide to Cusco – Beyond the Tourist Trail
Cusco is a beautiful city that has a blend of ancient ruins and modern conveniences. It has been labeled by many travelers as a hub for adventure and culture. But there’s more to Cusco than just its popular attractions. If you want to experience the city’s hidden gems, read on!
Local Attractions: Beyond The Usual Tourist Spots
Everyone knows about Machu Picchu, but Cusco has so much more! A perfect hidden gem is San Pedro Market, one of the biggest markets in the city that offers an authentic local experience. Shopping here is a must-do activity for those looking for souvenirs as you can find everything from local spices to textiles, and even Peruvian delicacies.
Another option is to visit the beautifully designed Planetarium Cusco, where you can observe some of the unique constellations visible from the southern hemisphere. An added bonus is that you can learn a lot about Andean culture and astronomy in this facility.
Cusco Cuisine: The Flavors Of The City
Cusco is known for its rich food history and abundance of mouth-watering dishes. Don’t leave the city without trying Ceviche, Papas a la Huancaína, or Pollo a la Brasa. These foods are right in the heart of Cusco and are the ultimate testament to Peruvian food. You can also try the local traditional beverage, Chicha Morada, made from purple corn.
For a truly authentic Peruvian culinary experience, visit the charming and laid back Pacha Papa restaurant located in San Blas. The ambiance is warm and welcoming, and the food is all locally sourced, sustainable, and fresh.
The Cultural Scene of Cusco
Cusco boasts a rich heritage that transcends centuries-old traditions, festivals and art. One such tradition is the Inti Raymi Festival, also known as the “Festival of the Sun”. This festival is an annual event held on June 24th which commemorates the Inca sun god. It is a spectacle that is not to be missed as it involves colorful processions, music, and dance performances.
Additionally, the Centro de Textiles Tradicionales del Cusco is a great place to learn about traditional Andean weaving and its history. The center provides an informative tour that explains the process of alpaca wool production, dying, and the weaving process.
The Local History Of Cusco
Cusco has a fascinating history, and one of the most significant moments is the arrival of the Spaniards and the Incas’ subsequent defeat. The statue of Inca Pachacutec is a reminder of this history and a symbol of resistance and liberation. You can visit the Plaza de Armas to see this statue and learn more about Inca culture.
The Qorikancha Temple is another must-visit destination that offers insights into the city’s extensive history. It was once the most vital temple in the Inca empire and is now a mixture of Inca and European architecture. You can also see various examples of Inca stonework, which was both impressive and awe-inspiring to see in person.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions
For those looking to experience something different, the Maras Salt Mines are a perfect choice. The salt mines can be accessed via a short hike and offer breathtaking scenery. Here, you can learn about the salt production process and the significance of this salt to the local economy.
Another option is to take a day trip to Pisac, a small town located in the Sacred Valley that is full of stunning Inca ruins, terraces, and picturesque landscapes. In Pisac, you can also visit the local market, which is famous for traditional crafts.
In conclusion, Cusco is brimming with hidden gems and exciting activities. These spots will enrich your trip and leave you with unforgettable memories. So pack your bags, follow this insider’s guide, and experience Cusco like a local!
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