How to Plan Your 8-Day All-Included Excursión: Cusco & Machu Picchu Amazing Tour

Are you planning a trip to Cusco and Machu Picchu? Look no further than the 8-Day All-Included Excursión: Cusco & Machu Picchu Amazing tour. This tour is the epitome of hassle-free travel. All key logistics like accommodation and transportation are included, so you can sit back, relax, and let the tour guide take you through the mesmerizing panoramas.

Overview

The tour is a comprehensive 8-day journey that takes you through some of Peru’s top attractions, including the Humantay Lake, UNESCO-listed Machu Picchu, Queshuachaca bridge, and Sacred Valley of the Incas. The tour’s key logistics, such as accommodation and transportation, are included, allowing you to relax and take in the views. Your guide will take you through the footsteps of the Incas, and you will appreciate the stunning countryside views.

Itinerary

**Day 1: Arrival in Cusco**

The tour will begin when you arrive in Cusco. You will be met at the airport and transferred to your 3-star hotel.

**Day 2: Maras, Moray, and Salt Mines**

You will begin the day with a visit to the Moray archaeological site, where you will see Inca agricultural terraces. Next, head to the village of Maras, famous for its salt mines. Finally, you will visit the famous Salineras salt fields, where you can see salt being extracted by hand.

**Day 3: Sacred Valley of the Incas**

Today, you will depart to the renowned Sacred Valley of the Incas. Explore the Pisac ruins, an Incan archaeological complex that dates back to the 15th century. Then, head to the local market for traditional foods or buy souvenirs. You will end the day visiting Ollantaytambo Fortress before settling into your hotel.

**Day 4-5: Machu Picchu**

You will begin your journey to Machu Picchu early in the morning. Take a train crossing the Sacred Valley of the Incas to reach the town of Aguas Calientes. The next day you will explore the legendary Machu Picchu, oriented to the east, would have a significant significance to the Incas as a place of astronomic and cosmological value related to the winter solstice. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the “new seven wonders of the world.”

**Day 6: Queshuachaca Bridge**

Today, you will have the opportunity to cross the brand-new reconstruction of the Queshuachaca Bridge. It is a suspension bridge made out of handmade grass rope and has been reconstructed every June for over 500 years. Afterward, we will have lunch in a local community.

**Day 7: Rainbow Mountain**

You will begin the day off with breakfast at the hotel and then head to an indigenous in the small village of Chillca. From here, you will start the Rainbow Mountain Trek. You will take in breathtaking views of the Andes along the way, with herds of alpacas and llamas grazing about the hills. After this incredible trek, you will enjoy a delicious lunch before heading back to the hotel.

**Day 8: Departure**

After breakfast, you will be transferred back to the Cusco airport to catch your flight home.

What’s Included?

– Air-conditioned vehicle for transportation
– Pickup from Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport to your hotel in Cusco.
– 3-star hotel accommodations for 7 nights.
– Professional bilingual guide service.
– Breakfast at the hotel.
– Admission fees to all attractions during the tour.
– 1 lunch in the local community during the bridge tour.

**What’s Not Included?**

– Any additional meals not listed in the itinerary
– Gratuities

Additional Information

The tour’s pickup time is at 12:30 PM. You can be picked up from the airport, or you can select a pickup point in Cusco. The tour company can also arrange to pick you up from your hotel.

Booking

To book the 8-Day All-Included Excursión: Cusco & Machu Picchu Amazing tour, click here.

Final Thoughts

Planning a trip can be stressful, but with the 8-Day All-Included Excursión: Cusco & Machu Picchu Amazing tour, you can leave the planning to the experts. This comprehensive tour covers all the major attractions, with all key logistics included, so you can sit back, relax, and soak up the incredible scenery.

An Insider’s Guide to Cusco: Uncovering the Hidden Gems of the Ancient Inca Capital

Cusco, the ancient capital of the Incan Empire, is a city filled with history, culture, and natural beauty. While famous landmarks like Machu Picchu attract millions of visitors every year, there are many hidden gems that only the locals know about. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take you off the typical tourist path and share some of Cusco’s best-kept secrets.

Local Attractions: Discovering Cusco’s Hidden Gems

While the famous Plaza de Armas and Cathedral of Santo Domingo are must-see attractions, don’t miss out on some of the lesser-known sites that make Cusco so unique. For example, take a visit to the Mercado de San Pedro, a bustling market where locals buy fresh produce and goods. You’ll find exotic fruits and vegetables, handmade textiles, and even Andean remedies. And don’t forget to check out the Sacsayhuaman ruins, an incredible example of Incan architecture situated on a hill overlooking the city.

Dining Spots: Indulging in Delicious Local Cuisine

Peruvian cuisine is considered some of the best in the world and trying it is a must-do when visiting Cusco. Instead of going to the usual spots, we recommend heading to La Cicciolina, a restaurant that serves delicious small plates inspired by Italian and Peruvian cuisine. Don’t miss the local dishes like Causa Rellena, a potato-based dish filled with chicken, avocado, and spicy mayonnaise. For those with a sweet tooth, head out to the ChocoMuseo and sample some of their famous chocolate treats, which are made from organic Peruvian cocoa beans.

Cultural Experiences: Immerse Yourself in the Incan Culture

Cusco hosts several cultural events each year that are worth planning your trip around. The Inti Raymi festival in June and the Virgen del Carmen festival in July are especially popular. However, even outside of these events, there are many opportunities to experience Incan culture. For example, take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional dishes like ceviche or Pisco Sour. Or, head to the Museo de Arte Precolombino to admire the impressive collection of pre-Columbian art.

Local History: Uncovering the Fascinating Past of Cusco

Cusco has a rich and fascinating history dating back to the Incan Empire. While Machu Picchu may be the most famous Incan site, there are many other incredible ruins in and around the city that tell the story of the Inca civilization. One such site is the Moray archaeological site, which consists of Terraced circles that were used for agricultural purposes. The fascinating thing about these circles is that the temperature from top to bottom changes drastically, making it one of the most unique agricultural laboratories in the world.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Exploring Cusco’s Hidden Wonders

If you’re looking for something completely unique, try taking a trip to Cusco’s Rainbow Mountain. This vibrant colored mountain is located about three hours outside of Cusco and requires a challenging hike to reach the top, but the views are absolutely breathtaking, and the experience is one that you’ll cherish forever. Another alternative is to visit Humantay Lake, a turquoise body of water surrounded by snow-capped mountains that offer a scenic and peaceful retreat. Alternatively, for those looking for something a little less strenuous but equally unique, we recommend taking a stroll around San Blas, the bohemian district of Cusco. It features colorful houses, narrow alleyways, street art, and some of the best views of the city.

In conclusion, a trip to Cusco is not just about taking in the famous landmarks but exploring the city’s culture, history, and local life as well. With these insider tips, we hope you’ll fall in love with the city and come back home with unforgettable memories.