How to Plan Your 6-Day Tour of Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Maras and Moray, and Rainbow Mountain

If you’re planning a visit to Peru, one of the best ways to explore the country and see its most famous sights is through an organized tour. One great option is the 6-day tour that covers Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Maras and Moray, and Rainbow Mountain. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to plan your trip and what to expect from the tour.

Step 1: Book the Tour

The first step is to book the tour. You can do this easily online through the Viator website by visiting this link. The tour includes pick-up from the airport to your hotel, so be sure to provide your flight details when booking.

Step 2: Pack for the Trip

The next step is to pack for the trip. Since you’ll be spending a lot of time outside and doing a fair amount of walking, it’s important to pack comfortable clothing and shoes. Be sure to bring layers as the weather can be unpredictable in the mountainous regions of Peru. Here’s a list of recommended items to pack:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Warm jacket or sweater
• Rain jacket or poncho
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Camera
• Personal toiletries
• Money and/or credit card

Step 3: Arrive in Cusco

Once you arrive in Cusco, the tour will pick you up from the airport and take you to your hotel. You’ll have the rest of the day to settle in and explore the city at your leisure. Be sure to drink plenty of water and take it easy as you adjust to the altitude.

Step 4: Explore Cusco

On the second day, you’ll have a full day to explore Cusco. The tour will take you to all the major sites, including the Cathedral of Santo Domingo, Qorikancha (the Temple of the Sun), and the bohemian neighborhood of San Blas. You’ll also have some time to shop for souvenirs and try some delicious Peruvian cuisine.

Step 5: Tour Sacred Valley

On the third day, you’ll embark on a tour of Sacred Valley, which includes stops at Pisac Market, the Pisac Ruins, the town of Urubamba, and the Ollantaytambo Ruins. This beautiful valley is full of stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, and vibrant culture.

Step 6: Visit Machu Picchu

The highlight of the trip is undoubtedly the visit to Machu Picchu on the fourth day. You’ll take a scenic train ride to the town of Aguas Calientes, have lunch, and then take a shuttle bus up to the ruins. You’ll have a guided tour of the site and some free time to explore on your own before returning to your hotel in Cusco.

Step 7: Experience Maras and Moray

On the fifth day, you’ll visit the archaeological site of Moray, which features a series of Incan agricultural terraces. You’ll also visit the salt mines at Maras, which have been in use for hundreds of years.

Step 8: Hike Rainbow Mountain

On the final day, you’ll take a challenging hike to Rainbow Mountain. This stunning peak features a colorful rock formation that makes for some truly stunning photos. The hike is challenging, so be sure to bring plenty of water, snacks, and warm clothing.

Conclusion

Overall, the 6-day tour of Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Maras and Moray, and Rainbow Mountain is an incredible way to see some of the most beautiful and historic sites in Peru. By following these steps, you can easily plan your trip and have an unforgettable experience. Book the tour today and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

An Insider’s Guide to Exploring Cusco and Beyond: Hidden Gems, Local Cuisine, and Cultural Experiences

As you plan your 6-day tour of Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Maras and Moray, and Rainbow Mountain, it’s worth noting that there’s more to this beautiful region than just the usual tourist spots. To help you make the most of your visit and create unforgettable memories, we’ve put together an insider’s guide that covers hidden gems, local cuisine, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions. Get ready for an adventure that goes beyond the conventional!

Local Attractions: Beyond the Tourist Spots

While Cusco has a lot of popular tourist spots worth checking out, such as the Plaza de Armas or Qorikancha, some lesser-known attractions still pack a punch. Consider exploring the San Blas neighborhood, which is known for its gorgeous colonial architecture and artist studios. You can also visit the Qenqo ruins, just a few kilometers from the city center, which offer a glimpse into the region’s ancient Inca heritage. Additionally, don’t miss the opportunity to see the colorful and lively San Pedro Market, which is considered the heartbeat of the city.

Dining Spots: Unveiling the Flavors of Cusco

When it comes to local cuisine, Cusco is a treasure trove of flavors waiting to be explored. Some must-try dishes include cuy (guinea pig), alpaca steak, and lomo saltado (stir-fried beef with onions, tomatoes, and potatoes). Head to Pacha Papa, a charming restaurant in the San Blas neighborhood, to sample these dishes and more. If you’re up for something more unconventional, visit the Chicha restaurant and bar in the city center, where chef Gaston Acurio is known to experiment with local and traditional flavors. A fun history anecdote that you might find interesting is that potatoes were first domesticated in Cusco thousands of years ago.

Cultural Experiences: Celebrating Traditions and Creativity

Cusco is a city proud of its creative spirit and rich cultural heritage. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit local art galleries showcasing contemporary and indigenous art, like Kusikay and Museo Maximo Laura. If you are interested in traditional Andean music, head to Qorikancha Museum for live performances showcasing the charango, a small yet powerful string instrument. Lastly, the Inti Raymi festival celebrated every year on June 24th is a must-attend event.

Local History: Tales of Empires, Cities, and Legends

The history of Cusco is as captivating as the terrain, and it’s worth diving deeper into the past to understand the present. The Sacsayhuaman ruins, located just a few kilometers from the city center, are a great place to start. This fortress has been the site of many battles and legends. Similarly, the church of La Compañía de Jesús, in the Plaza de Armas, offers a glimpse into the Spanish colonial era and the artistry and work of Andean artists and architects. Lastly, the Tambomachay site, which is believed to be an ancient spa for Inca royalty, offers insight into the sophisticated engineering and architecture of the Incas.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Nature, Adventures, and Community

If you are looking for a more adventurous and nature-driven experience, we have a few suggestions. Firstly, take a hike on the Choquequirao trek, a multi-day excursion that leads you to the remote ruins of Choquequirao, which are believed to be the sister site of Machu Picchu. Secondly, visit the Parque de la Papa, a community-led agricultural center showcasing the diverse potato varieties of Cusco. If you’re up for a one-day trip from Cusco, the Apurimac River Rafting Tour is an unforgettable experience filled with adrenaline and stunning views.

In conclusion, Cusco and the surrounding areas have so much to offer, from hidden gems, local cuisine, and cultural experiences to fascinating history and off-the-beaten-path adventures. We hope that you feel prepared to plan your 6-day tour and explore the best this region has to offer. Happy travels!