Magical Cusco: Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our 9-day, 8-night Cusco tour package, designed to connect body, mind, and spirit with the essence of the Andes. This comprehensive trip will take you to the most breathtaking destinations in southern Peru: from the majesty of Machu Picchu to scenic hikes to Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lagoon. You’ll discover the mysticism of archaeological sites like Tipón, Pikillacta, and Moray, explore unique landscapes on ATVs, and cross the ancient Inca Q’eswachaka Bridge, a living work of cultural heritage. You’ll also visit the enigmatic Sacred Valley of the Incas and experience the richness of colonial art in Andahuaylillas, all in a carefully curated experience.
Each day has been planned so you can experience the best of the Inca legacy, high-mountain nature, and the customs of Andean communities. We include transfers, accommodation, entrance fees, expert guides, and secure tourist transportation. This package is ideal for travelers seeking a profound trip, full of culture, history, and adventure, without worrying about logistics. Experience Cusco with all your senses and return home with memories that will last a lifetime.
ITINERARY
Magical Cusco Itinerary 9D/8N
🛍️Day 1: Arrival in Cusco + City Tour
- Pickup at the Cusco airport and transfer to the hotel.
- Free time for acclimatization (rest and hydration are recommended).
- Start of the Cusco City Tour
- Visit the Cathedral, the Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), and the archaeological sites of Sacsayhuamán, Q’enqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay.
- Return to the hotel.
- Overnight in Cusco.
🌍Day 2: Sacred Valley of the Incas with connection to Aguas Calientes
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Start of the Sacred Valley tour:
- Stop at the Taray viewpoint, visit the artisan market and Pisac ruins.
- Buffet lunch in Urubamba.
- Visit to the Ollantaytambo archaeological complex.
- Tourist train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.
- Arrival and reception at the station. Accommodation in Aguas Calientes.
- Free night. Overnight in Aguas Calientes.
🌄Day 3: Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Tourist bus ride to the citadel of Machu Picchu.
- Guided tour of approximately 2 hours of the main areas: temples, plazas, platforms, and viewpoints.
- Free time to explore or take photos.
- Return train to Ollantaytambo.
- Transfer by tourist transport to Cusco.
- Overnight in Cusco.
🛍️Day 4: Rainbow Mountain – Vinicunca
- Pickup from your hotel and depart for Cusipata (breakfast en route).
- Continue to the starting point of the hike (4,600 m above sea level).
- Hike of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to the summit of Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain).
- Free time for photos and rest.
- Return via the same route. Local lunch.
- Return to Cusco. Overnight in Cusco.
🏔️Day 5: Humantay Lagoon
- Pickup from your hotel and head to Mollepata (breakfast en route).
- Continue to Soraypampa (3,900 m above sea level).
- Hike of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. 1.5 hours to the impressive Humantay Lagoon, surrounded by glaciers.
- Free time for photos, meditation, or simply enjoying the scenery.
- Return via the same route. Typical lunch.
- Arrive in Cusco at approximately 5:30 PM.
- Transfer to the airport or an additional night, depending on your flight schedule.
🛍️Day 6: Maras and Maray by ATV
- Pickup: 8:00 AM. Transfer to the Cruzpata area.
- Guided ATV tour to Moray (Inca agricultural centers) and the impressive Maras Salt Mines.
- Adventure and spectacular landscapes of the Sacred Valley.
- Return to Cusco: approximately 1:30 PM.
- Free afternoon or transfer to the airport, depending on your flight schedule.
🏜️Day 7: South Valley of Cusco (Tipón, Pikillacta and Andahuaylilla)
- Pick up from the Hotel and Breakfast on the route
- We continue with the excursion to the south of Cusco: Tipón, Pikillacta, Andahuaylillas:
- Optional lunch in Saylla.
- Return to Cusco in the afternoon.
- Overnight in Cusco.
🛍️Day 8: Q’eswachaka Inca Bridge – Living culture and Andean landscapes
- Early pick up from the hotel (04:30 a.m.).
- Breakfast en route.
- Visit the legendary Inca Bridge of Q’eswachaka, hand-woven with ichu by local communities.
- Walk across the bridge and time for photos.
- Visit to the four nearby Andean lakes (Pomacanchi, Acopia, Asnaqocha and Pampamarca).
- Lunch.
- Return to Cusco approx. 5:00 PM
🛍️Day 9: Transfer to the airport
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Transfer to the airport at the scheduled time.
- End of our services.
INCLUDES
Includes in Cusco Magic 9D/8N
- Meet and greet at/from Cusco airport.
- Ground transfers for all mentioned tours.
- 8 nights of accommodation in a tourist hotel (double or matrimonial room with private bathroom, hot water, Wi-Fi, and breakfast).
- Daily breakfast at the hotel.
- 1 buffet lunch in the Sacred Valley.
- Lunch on the Rainbow Mountain tour.
- Lunch on the Humantay Lagoon tour.
- Box lunch or lunch at Q’eswachaka (depending on the itinerary).
- First aid kit.
- Partial Tourist Ticket (for the City Tour, Sacred Valley, and South Valley).
- Entrance fees to Machu Picchu.
- Entrance fees to Moray, Maras Salt Mines, and Q’eswachaka.
- Tickets to Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lagoon.
- Professional bilingual guide (Spanish/English) on all tours.
NOT INCLUDED
Not Included in Cusco Magico 9D/8N
- Domestic or international flights.
- Meals not specified (lunches/dinners outside of tours).
- Travel insurance.
- Tips for guides, drivers, and staff.
- Personal expenses.
- Horseback riding on Rainbow Mountain or Humantay Lagoon (optional, payable directly on the tour).
- Alcoholic beverages or snacks.
- Single room supplement (if required).
- Optional: ascent of Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (check availability and additional costs).
RECOMMENDATIONS
Recommendations for Cusco Magico 9D/8N
Before the trip:
- Acclimatization: Cusco is located at 3,399 m above sea level. We recommend arriving early to acclimatize and avoid discomfort. The itinerary already includes light activities on the first day.
- Physical Condition: For Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lagoon, it is recommended to be in moderate physical condition. If you have respiratory or heart problems, or limited mobility, consult your doctor beforehand.
- Advance Reservations: Make your reservation in advance, especially if you want tickets to Huayna Picchu or premium services such as the Vistadome train.
- Vaccinations and Health: No specific vaccinations are required. Bring any necessary personal medication and recommended travel insurance.
What to Pack:
- Light clothing for the day and warm clothing for the evening (temperatures vary considerably).
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho, especially during the wet season (November to March).
- Sun hat, sunglasses, and high-factor sunscreen.
- Hiking shoes or comfortable, non-slip footwear.
- Small backpack for day hikes (approximately 25 L).
Personal Items:
- Identification documents and/or original passport (required for Machu Picchu).
- Mask and hand sanitizer (some areas still require basic precautions).
- Personal medication, altitude sickness pills (sorojchi pills), or coca infusions.
- Camera or cell phone with good battery (bring a power bank).
- Cash (Peruvian soles), especially for rural areas without access to POS (POS).
During the tour:
- Follow the guide’s instructions at all times, especially at archaeological sites or hiking trails.
- Avoid eating heavily on the first day to prevent altitude sickness.
Remember to stay hydrated and avoid excessive alcohol consumption. - Respect environmental regulations: do not leave waste or take natural or cultural elements.
- Be punctual for pickups and drop-offs (schedules are shared if the tour is a group tour).
Connectivity and Communication:
- Hotels in Cusco and Aguas Calientes offer Wi-Fi.
- In rural areas like Vinicunca or Humantay, mobile signal is limited or nonexistent.
- If you want to stay connected, you can purchase a prepaid SIM card (Claro or Movistar) with a local data plan.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions: Magical Cusco 9D/8N
1. Is it necessary to acclimatize before this tour?
Yes. We recommend at least one day of acclimatization before embarking on challenging hikes such as Rainbow Mountain or Humantay. Our itinerary begins with gentle activities to facilitate adaptation.
2. What is the best time to take this trip?
The best time is during the dry season: from April to October, when there is less rain and better views. November to March is the rainy season, but the landscapes are greener.
3. How difficult is the hike to Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lagoon?
Both hikes have a moderate to high level of difficulty due to the altitude (over 4,000 meters above sea level). It is recommended to be in basic to intermediate physical condition, go at a slow pace, and wear appropriate clothing.
4. Is admission to Machu Picchu included?
Yes, the package includes general admission to Machu Picchu (Classic Circuit 1 or 2). If you wish to enter Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you must request it in advance (limited seating and additional costs apply).
5. What type of train is included in the package?
We include the PeruRail Expedition tourist train or the Inca Rail tourist class. You can request an upgrade to the Vistadome train for an additional cost.
6. What if I don’t want to hike Rainbow Mountain?
You can rent a horse on-site (service offered by local residents), for direct payment. There’s no need to book in advance.
7. Are the tours private or shared?
The tours are shared group tours (group service with other travelers). We also offer private options for couples, families, or small groups upon request.
8. Can I take this tour with children or seniors?
Yes, but it’s recommended to adapt the itinerary. The hikes to Vinicunca and Humantay are not recommended for children under 8 years old or older adults with health or mobility issues.
9. What happens if I don’t arrive at the pickup point on time?
All transfers and tours have set schedules. In the event of a delay, the activity may be missed without a refund. We always recommend being ready 15 minutes before the scheduled time.
10. Can I adjust the itinerary if I arrive later or depart before day 8?
Yes, we can customize the itinerary based on your flight schedule. You just need to let us know in advance so we can arrange transfers and reschedule activities without missing any important experiences.
DEPARTURE DATES
Cusco, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, and Rainbow Mountain are the most popular destinations in Cusco, Peru. We currently offer daily tours to this impressive mountain.
PRICES
Adult: $1,100 per adult
Student: $1,000 per adult
