CUSCO ADVENTURE TOUR 7 DAYS

At a glance

• TIMING: 7 days and 6 nights.
• STARTING & ENDING POINT: Cusco Airport.
• TYPE OF TOUR: Trekking, Cultural and History
• TRANSPORT: Bus, trekking and train.
• DIFFICULTY: Does involve some narrow trails amongst archaeological site like: Pisac, Ollantaytambo and Inca Trail to Machu Picchu; so sturdy footwear is required to help you enjoy it fully.

Highlights:

• Explore the city of Cusco
• full-day tour to Sacred Valley of the Incas
• Explore the Inca ruins of Pisaq and Ollantaytambo
• Visit the local markets.
• Hike the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
• Visit the hot springs in the town of Aguas Calientes.
• Optional climb Huayna Picchu Mountain.

Included activities:

• City of Cusco.
• Sacred Valley Tour 1 day.
• Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4N/3N.
• Machu Picchu Tour.

Short Itinerary for 7-Day Cusco Adventure Tour

DAY 1:  Welcome to Cusco

Upon arrival to Cusco at any time, you will be greeted by our friendly and knowledgeable staff who are there to ensure your safe and comfortable transfer to the designated hotel. Please provide us with your flight details prior to arriving in Cusco so that we can make the necessary arrangements for an easy and seamless transition from the airport to your hotel. We look forward to welcoming you on your first day of your journey!

DAY 2: Full Day Sacred Valley Tour

The Sacred Valley Tour is a full day of exploration and discovery. Witness the beauty of Peru’s rich history as you journey through the ancient lands of the Incas. Visit some of their most sacred archaeological sites and explore traditional villages, visit markets, learn about local customs and enjoy splendid mountain views. Get hands-on experience making chicha, a traditional Peruvian beverage, and learn about the Incan agricultural innovations that have stood the test of time.

DAYS 3, 4, 5, 6: Hike the Inca Trail

Hike the Inca Trail and take a thrilling journey through spectacular mountain scenery. This 4-day hike is perfect for travelers who are looking for an adventure and to explore one of the most iconic sites in South America – Machu Picchu. Along the way, you will learn more about Andean culture, spot exotic wildlife, and be able to enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. With professional guides, quality equipment, and delicious meals included on the trail, you can be sure that you will have a safe and unforgettable experience.

NOTE: The passengers who are not able or nor interested in the hike can spending 2 days in Cusco, and then travel by train to «Aguas Calientes», on the next morning, you’ll take the bus to Machu Picchu entrance and meet with the hikers at Machu Picchu. If you decide to do not make treking, we would need to know previously to your departure in order to obtain train tickets.

DAY 7: Transfer out

On Day 7, our adventure in Cusco comes to a close and we must transfer out. Our staff will help you with check out procedures from the hotel, arrange any necessary transportation to the airport or bus station, and say goodbye as your journey continues! We hope that you have enjoyed your time in Cusco and all of the amazing experiences you have encountered during your trip! Safe travels! No matter where your journey takes you next, we wish you all the best. ¡Adiós y buena suerte! (Goodbye and good luck!) We look forward to hearing about your new adventures!

Detailed Itinerary About 7-day Cusco Adventure Tour:

DAY 1: Arrival to Cusco

The 7-Day Cusco Adventure Tour begins once you arrive to Cusco at any time. However, we must know your flight details for your reception in the airport and tranfer you to the hotel Where you’ll receive briefing of the tour; all your questions and doubts will be clarified in this briefing. Today, there is a not planned activity so enjoy the city.

Recommendations:

• Stroll through the Plaza de Armas and surrounding areas, where you can appreciate the work of the Cusqueñian artisan craft stores.
• Grab a bite at the famous Peruvian cuisine restaurants nearby or relax on the park benches of Plaza de Armas and then take a photo there for memories to last during the warm weather in the afternoon, despite the cold nights of Cusco.
• And if you like the night around the square you will find many nightclubs and bars filled with tourists and locals who expect to have fun with good music and drinks.

DAY 2:  Tour to the Sacred Valley of the Incas: Pisac – Urubamba – Ollnataytambo

Today we’ll pick you up from the hotel at 8:00am; then we’ll take our bus and travel toward Pisaq a extensive and beautiful Inca ruins, then onto its lively tourist market.

The Pisac ruins are some of the finest and largest in the entire valley. Despite the excellent condition of many of the structures, little is conclusively known about the site’s actual purpose. It appears to have been part city, part ceremonial center, and part military complex.

After visiting the ruins, we will descend to the village of Pisaq, famous for its market, where hundreds of stalls crowd the central square – marked by a small church, San Pedro el Apóstolo, and massive pisonay tree.

The we continue to the town of Urubamba to enjoy lunch in one of the restaurants; after that we’ll continue to Ollantaytambo with its impressive Inca fortress that guarded the entry of this part of the valley and protected it from possible invasion from the lower jungles. We are going to spend the night at a nice hotel in the town of Ollantaytambo.

Recommendation:

• We strongly suggest suitable footwear, you will climb stairs with many steps.
• Bring a small backpack, camera; wear a sunhat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a water bottle.
• In Pisac, don’t forget to try the delicious “empanadas”, and purchase an artisan souvenir/memorabilia.
• In Urubamba enjoy a delicious buffet lunch where we invite you to try the corn of Sacred Valley.

DAYS 3, 4, 5, 6: Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: Ollantaytambo – Pisqhakucho – «Dead Woman Pass» – Inti Punku – Machu Picchu – Cusco.

After breakfast in the hotel; we’ll continue the trip to the 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. It is physically challenging but worthwhile, and the excursion is within the ability of most reasonably fit. the entire trail is a 45 kms (26 miles), with 2 high passes to be crossed, one of which reaches an elevation of 4,200 masl (13997 ft). The trail is often steep, and it may rain even during the dry season. The temperatures at night may fall below zero, so it is important to come prepared.

From the town of Ollantaytambo, we’ll depart to  Pisqhakuchu known as the km 82, where we’ll start our trek in the footsteps of the Incas. Our crew of porters’ chefs and guide look after us well for the duration of the hike. Porters carry the majority of the gear, so those passengers doing the hike only carry a small daypack with water, rain gear, snacks, a camera, etc.

As you walk the trail that linked this ancient empire, admire breathtaking views at every step as we’ll move from high plateau areas to dense cloud forest. Depending on the season, you may see a great variety of flora, including miniature and large orchids, and fiery rhododendron bushes.

You’ll pass several smaller ruin sites, the first of which is Llactapata. The second day climb the long steep path to Warmiwañusca, or Dead Woman’s Pass. At 4,200 m (14,000 ft) above sea level, this pass is the highest point of the trek. The second pass of the hike is at 4,000 meters where on clear days, we enjoy superb views of the snow-capped Vilcabamba Mountain Range.

The trail goes through some beautiful cloud forest on the gentle climb to the third pass, where you will walk through a causeway and a tunnel, both original Inca constructions. Soon, you’ll reach the serene ruins of Phuyupatamarca, or the ‘Town above the Clouds’, at about 3,600m. We will camp either here or an hour and a half further along close to Wiñay Wayna (Young Forever) ruins; a grandiose terraced hillside site, with panoramic views of the valley below and just a short hike from Machu Picchu.

On the final day, we will start hiking (for 2 hours) early escorted by an experienced guide to arrive for the sunrise at Machu Picchu. Later in the afternoon, we will take the train through Urubamba Valley and return to Cusco, arriving there in the evening and you will be transferred to your hotel.

NOTE:

The passengers who are not able or nor interested in the hike of spending 2 days in Cusco, and then travel by train to «Aguas Calientes», on the next morning, you’ll take the bus to Machu Picchu entrance and meet with the hikers at the ruins. If you decide not to do not make the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, we’ll need to know previous to your departure in order to obtain train tickets.

Distances of the Inca Trail:

Day 1: Km 82 to Llulluchapampa
Approximate distance: 15 km
Estimated hiking time: 7 – 8 hours.

Day 2: Llulluchapampa -Chaquiccocha
Approximate distance: 15 km
Estimated hiking time: 7 – 8 hours.

Day 3: Chaquiccocha – Wiñaywayna
Approximate distance: 10 km
Estimated hiking time: 5 hours.

Day 4: Wiñaywayna to Intipunku (Sun Gate) – Machu Picchu
Approximate distance: 5 km
Estimated hiking time: 2 hours.

DAY 7: Transfer to the Airport

On Day 7, our adventure in Cusco comes to a close and we must transfer out. Our staff will help you with check out procedures from the hotel, arrange any necessary transportation to the airport or bus station, and say goodbye as your journey continues! We hope that you have enjoyed your time in Cusco and all of the amazing experiences you have encountered during your trip! Safe travels! No matter where your journey takes you next, we wish you all the best. ¡Adiós y buena suerte! (Goodbye and good luck!) We look forward to hearing about your new adventures!

Cusco Adventure Tour includes

• Transportation: transfer in/out (airport/hotel/airport), private bus for the Sacred Valley tour, the same bus will transfer you from Ollantaytambo to Km 82 starting point of the Inca Trail, bus down from Machu Picchu to «Aguas Calientes», tourist train Expeditions class from «Aguas Calientes» to Cusco, transfer to your hotel.
• Entrance Fees: For the Sacred Valley Tour, Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
• Inca Trail Permits
• Meals: All breakfasts in the hotels, delicious meals on the Inca Trail prepared by professional chefs. Food includes pancakes, omelets, soups, fresh fruit, avocado, pasta, chicken, fish, meat, rice, all rich in carbohydrates and suitable for trekking, also hot drinks including coca leaf tea which is excellent for the altitude, teatime everyday (tea, coffee, biscuits, popcorn), (3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners and 3 afternoon teas), we also offer a vegetarian option upon request, and we provide available boiled water each morning for your water bottles.
• Guide: Licensed bilingual tour guide (2 guides over 8 people),
• General Porters: For camping equipment, food and kitchen gears.
• Extra Porter: To carry your personal items (6kls) in duffel bags that we provide. You must carry your daypack.
• Camping Equipment: We provide four people capacity tent for two persons, brand new four season tents, Therm-a-rest, dinning room tent, kitchen tent, toilet tent, seats, tables, tent for the porters, kitchen gear and backpacks, warm clothes and life insurance for the porters.
• Accommodations: based on double occupancy: 2 nights in Cusco ***Hotel, 1 night in Ollantaytambo ***Hotel, If you would like a private room there is an additional cost of US$30.00 per night; 3 nights in camping tents.
• Other Items: Local guide for permanent assistance, first-aid kit, oxygen bottle.

The cost exclude

• Meals: Lunch and dinner on day 1, 2 and 6; you must consider a budget from US$10 to US$25 for each meal. We will assist you with these issues.
• Sleeping Bag: Can be rented in our office for US $20 for the entire trek. Tips for the staff.

PRICE OF THE TOUR

• In the following price is included 3-stars category hotel which we consider appropriated and very confortable hotel for 7-Day Cusco Adventure Tour.
• We have other options based on the hotel, type of train; the options are adapted to all budgets and THE PRICE IS PER PERSON. We gladly will assist you, write or please call Us.

Daily Departure

Train options to Machu Picchu

1 .- The Vistadome Train:

The Vistadome Train is an excellent option for those seeking a quick and convenient way to visit Machu Picchu. This class of train offers a delightful experience, providing passengers with delicious snacks and a selection of hot and cold beverages. Recently refurbished, the Vistadome Train now boasts panoramic windows on its roof, allowing passengers to feel fully immersed in the breathtaking scenery. With unparalleled scenic views and numerous photo opportunities, this train journey promises to be unforgettable.

2 .- The Expedition Train:

The Expedition Train is specifically tailored for adventurous travelers in search of comfort and safety. In the Expedition class, the seats are adorned with Inca details, adding a touch of local and indigenous charm. Moreover, these seats offer ample space for your backpacks, ensuring your convenience during your journey to Machu Picchu. Additionally, this service offers a selection of drinks and snacks, available for purchase.

WHAT TO BRING?

For 7-Day Cusco Adventure Tour you’ll need to carry the following items:

Most travelers prefer to pack a small or medium-size wheeled suitcase, which is an ideal size for the storage capacity of our private vehicles. Regardless of what you bring, keep in mind that you will need to be able to carry your own luggage, handle it at airports, get in and out of your Hotel, and even walk short distances. Generally speaking, we recommend that you travel as little as possible. You will also need a backpack for activities and day trips. In terms of weight, airlines generally allow a maximum of 20kg for checked baggage.

In addition to the items and clothing you always need on a trip, here are some travel-specific packing tips:

ESSENTIAL:

• Closed shoes will help protect your feet from cuts and scrapes when walking in cities as well as in bushes/grasslands, and will also act as a protective barrier in rare cases of bites or stings.
• Sun protection – hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
• Original Passport, keep it in a dry and safe place while visiting Machu Picchu.
• Extra Cash in Soles, try to have in small coins to buy souvenirs.
• Camera for the good pictures.
• Sunscreen, insect repellent.
• Sunglasses.

RECOMMENDED:

• Electronic and/or hard copies of all important documents, plane tickets, passport, vaccination certificate, etc. and keep printed copies separate from originals. Although not valid, a copy makes it much easier to get replacements if needed.
• Water bottle. We recommend a capacity of at least 1.5 liters. The sale of bottled water contributes to a major environmental problem worldwide. In addition to bottled water, making a 1-liter plastic bottle requires 2 liters of water and 200 ml of oil. Much of it ends up in limited landfills or is released into waterways and natural settings.
• Electrical adapter plug.
• It is important to have a Personal medical kit. Your guide will carry a large kit but we recommend you carry items such as mild pain killers, electrolytes and bandaids.
• Fly spray
• You can use clock/alarm clock or phone for both

OPTIONAL:

•  Earplugs to protect against possible snoring from a roommate
• Phrasebook

VALUABLE ITEMS:

Try to avoid bringing unnecessary valuables and use your hotel safe. It’s also a good idea to buy a money belt or pouch that is easy to hide.

LAUNDRY DETERGENT.

Laundry is available in many hotels and cities on this trip, but you may have to wait for a two-night layover to ensure you pick it up on time. While hotel laundry is usually charged per item, laundromats usually charge per kilo, which is usually inexpensive (around $2 per kilo).

ESSENTIAL TRAVEL INFORMATION ABOUT 7-DAY CUSCO ADVENTURE TOUR

IMPORTANT NOTES ABOUT THE TRIP:

– Please provide your full name exactly as it appears on your passport at the time of booking (including other names listed on your passport) for Machu Picchu Permits and train tickets. Charges may apply for changes to details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases, you will be required to cover the cost of issuing new tickets.

– A single supplement is available if you prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Talk to your reservation agent for more information.

– 7-Day Cusco Adventure Tour includes a visit to Machu Picchu. According to the visiting regulations of Machu Picchu, all visitors must follow a predetermined route within the site. This route must be followed in one direction, and once the guided tour has started, it is forbidden to leave and re-enter the site. After the guided tour is over, visitors must leave the site, and personal exploration of Machu Picchu is not allowed. See the Itinerary for more details.

– Machu Picchu permits are sold on request only. Once the deposit has been paid and passport details provided, SPT Travel & Tours will attempt to obtain a permit for you.

– Parts of your trip exceed 2,800 meters / 9,200 feet, where it is common for travelers to experience adverse health effects due to altitude, regardless of age, gender, and physical condition. Consult your doctor for professional advice on high altitude travel if you have any medical conditions.

– Most highland hotels are required to have oxygen cylinders, but you may be asked to pay extra for using oxygen for more than 5-10 minutes at a time.

ARRIVAL IN THE CITY OF CUSCO.

Welcome to the city of Cusco!

As you arrive at the airport for 7-Day Cusco Adventure Tour, our team will be ready to greet you and ensure a smooth transition to your reserved hotel. To provide the best service, kindly share your flight details at least 10 days prior to your trip. Look for our representative holding a distinctive Blue SPT Travel & Tours sign upon your arrival at the Cusco airport.

THE BRIEFING.

Upon your arrival at the hotel, you will be cordially invited to a briefing about 7-Day Cusco Adventure Tour. This briefing, lasting approximately half an hour, will serve as a comprehensive introduction to the tour. Guided by our knowledgeable and enthusiastic tour leader, you’ll be walked through the precise details of your upcoming adventure. They will eagerly share important information, from the day-by-day itinerary to insights about the exciting spots we will visit. This is also a prime opportunity for you to ask any questions and clarify any doubts you may have. This briefing is designed to ensure you feel completely prepared and excited about the journey ahead.

CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE IN YOUR OFFICE?

Absolutely! We understand that when embarking on an excursion, carrying around hefty luggage can hinder your experience. Hence, we offer a complimentary luggage storage service at our office. Alternatively, you may choose to keep your belongings at your hotel, as both options come at no extra cost. We recommend you bring along a compact backpack for the day’s adventure, equipped with essentials such as water, a jacket, and any other necessary items. This way, you can explore freely and comfortably, without being weighed down by unnecessary baggage.

WHAT ABOUT THE BALANCE?

The remaining balance of the 7-Day Cusco Adventure Tour you’ll pay at the briefing time. We accept only in Cash and you will avoid high credit card fees in Peru, you can pay in cash at our office (US dollars or Peruvian soles). There are many ATMs in the historic center to withdraw money. You can also pay with VISA or PAYPAL online, but you will have to pay a 7% service charge, charged by VISA and PAYPAL. To pay your balance through PAYPAL, you must log in to your PAYPAL account and use our email address: sunrisetrek@gmail.com

CAN I CHANGE THE DEPARTURE DATE AFTER PURCHASING THE TICKETS?

I apologize for the inconvenience, but it is not possible to change the departure date after purchasing the tickets. According to government regulations, no changes are allowed once the tickets have been purchased. Additionally, please note that the tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable. If you decide to cancel your tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu, please be aware that the deposit is absolutely non-refundable.

DO I NEED MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT?

Yes, it is crucial that you bring your original passport for your visit to Machu Picchu and other reservations. If you need to renew or change your passport, you can provide us with the old passport details to secure your clearance. However, there will be a fee of $25 per person to update your new passport number or name. Kindly ensure to keep a copy of the old passport. Alternatively, if you do not wish to pay the fee, you must bring both passports to Peru. While you can enter Peru with your new passport, both your old and new passports are required to enter Machu Picchu or board the train. Without both passports, entry will not be granted.

ABOUT ALTITUDE SICKNESS.

Altitude sickness is a potentially life-threatening condition that can occur when traveling above 2,500m. It can affect anyone, regardless of their physical fitness level. Factors that increase the risk include a history of altitude sickness, engaging in exercise or consuming alcohol before acclimatizing to the altitude, and having respiratory health issues. Consulting a doctor before traveling is crucial to receive personalized advice. Additionally, ensure that your insurance covers emergency evacuation at high altitude and related medical expenses.

MEALS NOT INCLUDED:

For this trip, we recommend budgeting between 25 and 50 USD per day for meals. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated prices:

– Breakfast: If breakfast isn’t included, you can expect to spend around $5-$10 at a local coffee shop.

– Lunch: If you’re looking for a quick grab-and-go option, you can get away with spending as little as $5 to $10 at a local restaurant for a set menu or a sandwich and drink from a coffee shop. However, if you prefer a more touristy restaurant, the cost can range between 10 and 15 USD.

– Dinner: During dinner time, your chef will be happy to recommend local restaurants where you can safely try the area’s delicacies. Prices for entrees typically range from $12 to $25.

Please note that these prices are indicative and can vary depending on your preferences and the locations you visit. If you’re on a tight budget and enjoy local cuisine, you can find cheaper options, although quality may vary. On the other hand, if you’re looking to experience the best cuisine in renowned restaurants, prices can be similar to those in Western countries.

TIPING.

When it comes to tipping, your satisfaction with the services provided is greatly valued, although it is not obligatory. While this custom may be uncommon in your country, it holds great significance for those who will be assisting you during your Tour. Tipping serves as a motivating factor for exceptional service and is deeply rooted in the tourism industry across various SPT Travel & Tours destinations. Feel free to tip as you deem appropriate, considering the quality and duration of your visit. It is important to note that tipping is not compulsory and should only be provided in the event of exemplary service.