How to Plan Your 7-day Tour of Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, and Humantay Lake

If you’re looking for an epic adventure in Peru, this 7-day all-inclusive tour may be just what you’re looking for. You’ll have an opportunity to explore Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, and Humantay Lake – all in one trip. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to plan your journey.

Step 1: Book Your Tour

First, you’ll need to book your tour. The 7-day all-inclusive tour is operated by Viator and includes pick up from the airport to your hotel, all entrances, n lunches, and four other meals where lunch is not included. To book the tour, use this link book the tour here.

Step 2: Plan Your Arrival

When planning your trip, keep in mind that the tour starts on a Sunday. Therefore, you’ll need to arrive in Cusco by Saturday at the latest to allow time to acclimate to the altitude. Cusco is located at an altitude of 3,399 meters (11,152 feet).

Step 3: Prepare for the Tour

Before starting the tour, make sure you have everything you’ll need. You’ll want to pack comfortable, waterproof clothing, as well as a sturdy pair of hiking boots. Also, be sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.

Step 4: Day 1

The tour begins on Sunday when a driver will pick you up at either the airport or your hotel in Cusco. The first stop is Maras and Moray, where you’ll visit the impressive terraced salt mines and ancient ruins. Afterward, you’ll head to Chinchero to explore the traditional textiles and have lunch. The day ends with a scenic drive to Urubamba, where you’ll stay overnight.

Step 5: Day 2

On Monday, you’ll discover the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The first stop of the day is the archaeological sites of Pisac, followed by Ollantaytambo. After lunch, you’ll head to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll spend the night and prepare for your visit to Machu Picchu the following day.

Step 6: Day 3

This is the highlight of the tour – you’ll explore the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu with a knowledgeable guide. Afterward, you’ll have free time to explore the ruins at your own pace. Later in the afternoon, you’ll return to Aguas Calientes for dinner and overnight stay.

Step 7: Day 4

On Wednesday, the tour heads to Humantay Lake, a stunning glacier lake located at 4,200 meters (13,779 feet) above sea level. This is a moderate to challenging hike that takes around 3 hours of uphill walking to reach. But the panoramic views of the Andes and the turquoise lake are worth it.

Step 8: Day 5

Thursday is your free day, during which you can explore Cusco and do some shopping. The tour operator can provide recommendations on places to visit and things to do.

Step 9: Day 6

On Friday, the tour continues to Rainbow Mountain – one of the most photographed places in Peru. This is a challenging trek at an altitude of 5,200 meters (17,060 feet), but the views of the multi-colored mountain make it worth the effort.

Step 10: Day 7

The tour ends on Saturday, when you’ll have breakfast and be transferred to Cusco City. You can either continue your journey from here or extend your stay.

Conclusion

This 7-day tour of Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, and Humantay Lake offers an unbeatable opportunity to explore some of the most incredible destinations in Peru. By following these steps, you’ll be able to plan your adventure with confidence and ease. Don’t forget that this tour is offered by a third-party company, Viator, and therefore, make sure you adhere to their cancellation policy. Pack your bags and get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

The Ultimate Insider’s Guide to Cusco: Discovering Unforgettable Hidden Gems

When most people think of Cusco, they immediately picture the Inca ruins of Machu Picchu or the Sacred Valley. But beyond these popular tourist attractions, Cusco is also home to many lesser-known hidden gems that only locals know about. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take you off the beaten path and show you the most unique and unforgettable experiences that Cusco has to offer.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems

While Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley are definitely must-sees while in Cusco, there are other hidden gems that provide insight into the city’s rich history and culture. For instance, San Pedro Market is a bustling hub of activity where locals shop for everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to handmade crafts. Here, you can also find authentic local foods like rocoto relleno (stuffed peppers) and ceviche (marinated seafood).

Another hidden gem is the San Blas neighborhood, a charming bohemian quarter where you can find art galleries, quaint cafes, and artisanal shops. The San Blas church, located in the heart of the neighborhood, is known for its famous twelve-sided stone. Also, visit the Cusco Center of Textile Tradition and the Museum of Inka, which holds hundreds of impressive artifacts.

Dining Spots: Local Cuisine and Beyond

Cusco’s food scene is outstanding, with an emphasis on local ingredients and traditional dishes. Try the roast guinea pig (cuy) — a delicacy in Peru — or the hearty corn soup (chicha). Head to Chicha Por Gastón Acurio, where chef Acurio uses locally sourced ingredients to put a modern spin on traditional Peruvian dishes. Another option is Incanto, where you’ll find an international selection of dishes.

If you want a truly unforgettable dining experience, head to Huacatay Restaurant, which is situated in a beautiful location. This restaurant serves up a delicious and innovative Peruvian fusion cuisine while offering amazing views of the city.

Cultural Experiences: Traditions and Festivals

Cusco is known for its vibrant culture and colorful traditions. Each year, the city celebrates Inti Raymi, or the Festival of the Sun, during the winter solstice. This historic festival is celebrated in honor of the Inca sun god and involves music, dancing, and elaborate costumes.

Another must-see experience is Cusco’s Corpus Christi festival, a religious tradition that combines Inca and Catholic symbols and rituals. During this festival, the streets are buzzing with processions, performances, and parades, which attract visitors from all over the world.

Local History: Intriguing Tales

Cusco boasts a rich history that goes back thousands of years. One interesting story is the tale of Pachacuti, the ninth Inca emperor, who transformed Cusco into a grand and sophisticated city. The city was then conquered by the Spanish in the 16th century, and the fusion of Inca and Spanish culture is still evident today.

Further along the colonial history of Cusco, a particular tale talks about the Korikancha, a temple where Spaniards looted and used Inca stones to construct their own buildings. You can visit this site and imagine how the grand Inca temple in its monumentality would have originally looked like.

Off-the-Beaten-Path: Unique Experiences

For a unique and unforgettable experience in Cusco, why not take a horseback ride through the Sacred Valley or the surrounding hills? Another option is to go paragliding with a guide, giving you a bird’s eye view of the city’s stunning landscape.

If you’re interested in ecology, take a visit to the native orchid and butterfly farms outside the city. Here, you can see hundreds of species of orchids and butterflies and learn about the important role they play in the ecosystem.

Cusco is a city of timeless wonders, wrapped in history and splendid landscapes. By going off the beaten path and exploring the hidden gems, local traditions, and cultural experiences, you will capture the essence of the city in a meaningful way. This guide is just a starting point for your adventure. Follow it, improvise, and make the most of your 7-day tour of Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, and Humantay Lake that you’ve been planning!