CUSCO IMPERIAL TOUR 5 Days

At a Glance

• DURATION: 5 days and 4 nights.
• STARTING/ENDING POINT: Cusco Airport.
• DEPARTURE DATES: Daily departures available for group and private tours.
• TOUR TYPE: Cultural and historical.
• TRANSPORTATION: Bus and train.
• DIFFICULTY: Narrow trails in sites like Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Maras-Moray, and Machu Picchu; sturdy footwear advised.
• Optional climb: Huayna Picchu Mountain.

Highlights:

• Discover the city of Cusco.
• Experience a full-day tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
• Travel by train through the Urubamba Valley to the town of Aguas Calientes.
• Experience a tour of Machu Picchu.
• Optional climb: Huayna Picchu Mountain (check availability due to its popularity).
• Visit Maras-Moray, captivating Inca ruins.

Included Activities:

• City Tour in Cusco: Discover the main attractions of Cusco, including the Plaza de Armas, Coricancha (Temple of the Sun), and the Cathedral. Explore the streets and admire the architecture while learning about the city’s rich history and culture.
• Sacred Valley Tour: Visit several Inca ruins in the Sacred Valley, including Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero. Marvel at the Incas’ impressive engineering skills and learn about their agricultural practices.
• Machu Picchu Excursion: Embark on once-in-a-lifetime adventure to Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
• Maras-Moray Tour: Experience the unique and fascinating Salineras de Maras (Maras Salt Mines) with salt ponds used since Inca times. Visit Moray, an impressive agricultural site with circular terraces.

Short Itinerary for Cusco Imperial Tour

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco

Upon arrival in Cusco, you will be transferred to your hotel to settle in. In the afternoon, embark on an insightful city tour where you will explore the main attractions, including the historic Plaza de Armas, the sacred Coricancha, and the magnificent Cathedral. Absorb the rich history and vibrant culture as you wander through ancient streets and admire the city’s captivating architecture.

Day 2: Sacred Valley Tour

Dedicate your day to discovering the Sacred Valley. Begin with the mystical Pisac ruins and the lively local market offering authentic artisan crafts. Continue to the stunning archaeological site of Ollantaytambo, where you’ll be amazed by the Inca’s engineering prowess and the serene beauty of the landscape.

Day 3: Machu Picchu Tour

Experience an unforgettable journey to Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Dive into the mystical aura of these ancient ruins and unravel the secrets of the Incas. After exploring, return to Cusco in the evening, enriched by this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Day 4: Maras-Moray Tour

Set out to explore the remarkable Maras salt mines, a generational heritage of salt ponds dating back to the Inca era. Follow this with a visit to Moray, an impressive archaeological site with unique circular terraces thought to have been an experimental agricultural center for the Incas.

Day 5: Departure

Conclude your adventure in Cusco with a transfer to the airport. Reflect on the rich experiences and memories created during your exploration of this captivating region. Safe travels!

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival to Cusco & City Tour:

WELCOME TO CUSCO: Embark on your Peruvian adventure as soon as you touch down at Cusco airport, where our friendly team will welcome you and whisk you away to your hotel. Here, you’ll receive a comprehensive tour briefing, complemented with a soothing cup of coca tea—perfect for adjusting to Cusco’s refreshing altitude of 3,400 meters (11,154 feet).

Are you ready to dive into history? At 1:30 p.m., join us for an immersive city tour, exploring six captivating tourist sites. Trust us, admission to these fascinating archaeological centers and museums is all covered! The city tour is designed to captivate and lasts about 4.5 hours.

The Guided City Tour in Cusco:

Our expert guide will personally escort you from your hotel to discover these iconic sites:

• The Koricancha and Convent of Santo Domingo: Witness the architectural grandeur at «The Temple of the Sun,» where Inca and colonial innovations collide.
• The Cathedral in the Main Square: Admire this colonial masterpiece, a testament to extraordinary artistic creativity.
• Sacsayhuaman: Ever seen stones taller than a two-story building? This fort, famed for its gigantic stones, is where celebration and history unite during the Inty Raymi, the «Fiesta del Sol.»
• Qenqo: A mystical ritual center, once hosting ancient ceremonies and sacrifices, that invites you to ponder the mysteries of the past.
• Puca-Pucara: Envision the bustling times when this Inca «Tambo» served as a gateway for travelers across the land.
• Tambomachay: Reflect at the «place of water» where the reverence for this life-sustaining element is palpably felt.

Day 2: Sacred Valley of the Incas:

With the Sacred Valley awaiting, start your day at 8:00 a.m. as we collect you for a full-day journey through landscapes that inspire awe and respect for ancient ingenuity. Between the culturally rich towns of Pisac and Ollantaytambo, the valley thrives with heritage and tradition.

Have you ever wondered about the innovations of ancient agriculture? Explore the Inca’s engineering marvels—the «andenería» terraced fields, where Pachamama was honored and agriculture thrived. Our path winds through the vibrant town of Urubamba and concludes magnificently in Ollantaytambo.

As the day unfolds, we’ll embark on a scenic two-hour train ride to «Aguas Calientes,» where the promise of adventure builds as you prepare for an overnight stay.

Important Recommendations:

• Ready for exploration? Wear comfortable footwear for the day’s adventures.
• Don’t forget your essentials: a backpack, camera, sun hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and water.
• In Pisac, indulge in delectable empanadas and snag an artisan keepsake.
• Savor a delightful buffet in Urubamba and taste the famed corn of the Sacred Valley.

Day 3: Machu Picchu Tour

Kickstart the day with energy! After a good breakfast, set out at 5:30 a.m., and take a brief stroll to the bus station. Our 25-minute bus journey transports you to the monumental Machu Picchu, where history whispers through every stone and breathtaking view.

Upon reaching this iconic site, secure your admission by showing your ticket and passport, and embark on a guided tour that paints the tales of the main square, the circular tower, the sacred solar clock, the royal quarters, and more, lasting 2-3 hours.

What’s next? Enjoy the freedom to explore the citadel at your leisure, dine wherever your heart desires in Aguas Calientes, or choose the exclusive Sanctuary Lodge (meals not included).

Your discovery day concludes with a relaxing train journey back to Ollantaytambo and a seamless car transfer to your Cusco hotel.

Important Recommendations:

• To navigate Machu Picchu’s steps with ease, wear sturdy shoes.
• Equip yourself with a backpack, camera, sun hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and water.
• Seize the chance to unwind in the thermal baths of Aguas Calientes.
• Punctuality pays; arrive at the train station 30 minutes before departure.

Day 4: Maras-Moray Tour:

Fuel your curiosity today with an 8:30 a.m. departure in our private vehicle, heading to Maras. Delight in picture-perfect pitstops that capture the mountainous landscapes and ignite your sense of wonder. Today’s journey is rich with exploration:

MARAS:

Nestled at 3,300 meters, Maras offers spectacular vistas of the majestic Vilcanota mountains, including «Chicón» and «Veronica.» Step back in time as you wander its colorful streets, lined with architecture from eras long past.

MORAY:

Could these terraced circles have been the Inca’s secret agricultural laboratory? Discover the ingenuity that defined and enhanced Incan farming techniques.

SALINERAS or “SALT MINES”:

Explore the intriguing salt mines northwest of Maras, where nature and ancient methods combine in nearly 3,000 wells, just as they have since Incan times.

Important Recommendations:

• For a day of discovery, wear comfortable shoes. Equip yourself with a backpack, camera, sun hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and water.
• In Maras, taste the local toasted corn and pick up a unique artisan souvenir.

Day 5: Farewell and Departure from Cusco to Lima:

As your journey nears its end, flexibility reigns supreme. We’ll be ready to smoothly transport you to the airport, ensuring your farewell to Cusco is both convenient and memorable. Safe travels as you carry these unforgettable stories home!

Cusco Imperial Tour Includes:

• TRANSPORTATION: Round-trip airport transfers (Airport/Hotel/Airport), private bus service for the City Tour, Sacred Valley Tour, and Maras-Moray Tour. Also includes round-trip bus service from the town of Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, and expedition class round-trip train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and back, with hotel transfers included.
• ENTRANCE FEES: All necessary entrance fees for the City Tour, Sacred Valley Tour, Maras, Moray, and Machu Picchu.
• GUIDE: A licensed bilingual tour guide to enhance your experience.
• ACCOMMODATIONS: Double occupancy room arrangements, with three nights in a 3-sgtar category Hotel in Cusco and one night in the town of Aguas Calientes.
• OTHER AMENITIES: A local guide for continuous assistance, a first-aid kit, and an emergency oxygen bottle for safety.

Exclusions:

• MEALS: Lunch and dinner are not included. Please budget $10 to $25 USD per meal.
• Additional expenses such as airport taxes and tips.

TOUR PRICING:

Embark on your adventure any day of the week!

• Included in the pricing is accommodation in a carefully selected 3-star hotel, offering great comfort and a delightful stay for your Cusco Imperial Tour.
• We offer a variety of options tailored to different preferences, including hotel choices and train types, all adaptable to fit various budgets. Remember, pricing is based on a per-person basis. Need assistance? Don’t hesitate to reach out—write to us or give us a call.

Daily departures to fit your schedule.

WHAT TO BRING?

Embarking on the 5-day Cusco Imperial Tour? Here’s what you’ll need to pack:

For your adventure in and around Cusco, we recommend opting for a small to medium wheeled suitcase. This size perfectly accommodates the storage space in our private vehicles, giving you flexibility and convenience. Remember that you’ll need to carry your luggage, navigate airports, and maneuver it in and out of hotels, sometimes even walking short distances. Why not pack light to enjoy a more carefree experience? Additionally, a backpack will be your trusty companion for daily excursions and activities. Airlines typically cap your checked baggage weight at 20kg, so packing efficiently will help you glide through your travels!

Beyond your usual travel essentials, here are some specific packing tips for the journey:

ESSENTIAL:

• Closed shoes are vital for protection, keeping your feet safe from scrapes and cuts as you explore urban landscapes and natural terrains, while also shielding you from any unexpected bites or stings.
• Arm yourself against the sun with a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses—indispensable for enjoying the beautiful Peruvian landscapes without a hitch.
• Your Original Passport is crucial, especially for your visit to Machu Picchu. Keep it dry and secure to avoid any travel hiccups.
• Spare cash in Soles is handy, particularly in small denominations for souvenirs that capture the essence of Peru’s culture and history.
• Bring a camera to immortalize the breathtaking scenes you’ll encounter; every photograph will be a cherished memory.
• Don’t forget your sunscreen and insect repellent to ensure a comfortable, itch-free experience.
• Sunglasses aren’t just fashionable; they’re essential for dealing with the Cusco sun.

RECOMMENDED:

• Have electronic and physical copies of important documents like plane tickets, your passport, and vaccination certificates. Keeping extra copies separately from the originals can save the day if things go awry.
• A reusable water bottle with a 1.5-liter capacity is not only practical but reduces plastic waste, helping conserve Peru’s stunning environments.
• An electrical adapter plug is essential to keep your devices charged and ready for exploration.
• Carry a personal medical kit for minor ailments; while your guide will have a larger kit, items like painkillers, electrolytes, and band-aids are convenient for quick relief.
• Fly spray is worth considering, especially when immersing yourself in the great outdoors.
• Use your phone’s alarm feature to ensure you’re always on time for tours and adventures.

OPTIONAL:

• Earplugs can be very beneficial in ensuring a good night’s rest, just in case your roommate gets a bit too enthusiastic in their sleep!
• A phrasebook can enrich your experience by connecting you more deeply with the local culture and people.

VALUABLE ITEMS:

We advise leaving unnecessary valuables at home and utilizing your hotel safe. Consider a discreet money belt or pouch for peace of mind while exploring.

LAUNDRY DETERGENT.

Most hotels offer laundry services, but if you’re on a tight schedule, laundromats provide a budget-friendly alternative, typically charging around $2 per kilo. Plan ahead to ensure you get your clothes back during two-night stays.

Ready to dive into a profound journey through the heart of Peru? With these items, you’re all set for an unforgettable adventure filled with history, culture, and awe-inspiring sights. Pack smart, travel light, and get ready to explore the wonders of Cusco and Machu Picchu with enthusiasm and ease!

ESSENTIAL TRAVEL INSIGHTS FOR THE 5-DAY CUSCO IMPERIAL TOUR

IMPORTANT TRIP DETAILS:

• Ready for your Machu Picchu adventure? Ensure you book using your full passport name to secure permits and train tickets. Alterations within 45 days of departure may incur charges, and you might need to purchase new tickets.
• Prefer a private room during your journey? A single supplement is available throughout the tour, subject to availability. Reach out to your reservation agent to learn more.
• The 5-day Cusco Imperial Tour includes a mesmerizing visit to Machu Picchu. Keep in mind, you’ll need to follow a set route and won’t be able to leave and return once your tour kicks off. Want more? Dive into the itinerary for deeper details.
• Machu Picchu permits are not automatically guaranteed. After you pay the deposit and provide your passport info, SPT Travel & Tours will strive to obtain a permit for you.
• Parts of our journey soar over 2,800 meters (about 9,200 feet), where altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness. Got a medical condition? It’s wise to consult your doctor.
• Many highland hotels offer oxygen cylinders, though extended use beyond 5-10 minutes might come with additional fees.

ARRIVAL IN THE FASCINATING CITY OF CUSCO

Greetings and Bienvenidas to Cusco!

Upon touching down for the 5-day Cusco Imperial Tour, our warm and welcoming team will ensure your smooth transfer to your hotel. Please share your flight details at least 10 days before your arrival so we can offer top-notch service. Look for our friendly representative with the distinctive Blue SPT Travel & Tours sign at the airport—your exciting journey begins here!

THE INFORMATIVE BRIEFING

Once you’re settled at the hotel, join us for an enriching briefing on the Cusco Imperial Tour. In about 30 minutes, our passionate tour leader will guide you through everything you need to know about the adventure ahead. Learn about the daily itinerary and uncover insights into the extraordinary sites you’ll explore. Got questions? Feel free to ask—the briefing ensures you’re thoroughly prepared and brimming with excitement for your travels.

CAN YOU STORE LUGGAGE AT YOUR OFFICE?

Absolutely! Traveling light makes exploration a breeze, and we offer complimentary luggage storage at our office. Alternatively, leave your belongings at your hotel at no further cost. We suggest bringing a handy backpack with daily essentials such as water, a jacket, and more, allowing you to roam freely without being laden down.

HOW DO I HANDLE THE BALANCE?

You’ll settle the remaining balance of your 5-day Cusco Imperial Tour at the briefing. Keep it simple with cash payments to avoid hefty credit card fees in Peru—US dollars or Peruvian soles are welcome. Need cash? Numerous ATMs are at your disposal in the historic center. Prefer paying online? VISA or PAYPAL are options, but bear in mind a 7% service charge applies. For PAYPAL, log in and use our email: sunrisetrek@gmail.com

CAN I CHANGE MY DEPARTURE DATE AFTER BOOKING?

Regrettably, once your tickets are purchased, changing the departure date isn’t possible due to government regulations. These tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable. Cancelling your tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu means forfeiting the deposit, so plan carefully!

IS MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT NECESSARY?

Yes, your original passport is imperative for accessing Machu Picchu and other bookings. If you renew or change your passport, provide the old passport details for clearance—updating passport details incurs a $25 fee per person. Alternatively, bring both passports to Peru to ensure smooth access to Machu Picchu and the train. Without both, entry isn’t granted.

UNDERSTANDING ALTITUDE SICKNESS

Altitude sickness can occur at elevations above 2,500m, posing risks to anyone—no matter their fitness level. History of altitude sickness, exercising, or drinking before acclimatization, and respiratory issues increase this risk. It’s crucial to consult your doctor for tailored advice. Also, ensure your insurance covers high-altitude emergencies and related expenses.

MEALS NOT INCLUDED

Budgeting between 25 and 50 USD per day for meals is suggested for this adventure. Here’s a peek into expected costs:

• Breakfast: Anticipate spending around $5-$10 at a cozy local coffee shop if it’s not included.
• Lunch: Grab a quick bite for $5-$10 at a local eatery for a set menu or sandwich. Prefer a more tourist-centered dining experience? Expect costs between 10 and 15 USD.
• Dinner: Enjoy dinner at trusted local spots with entree prices typically ranging from $12 to $25. Your chef will be delighted to guide you to the best places for a taste of local delights.

These are indicative prices and can vary based on your preferences and chosen venues. On a budget but love local food? Affordable options abound, though quality might fluctuate. If gourmet dining is your aim, costs may reflect those in Western locales.

ON THE SUBJECT OF TIPPING

While tipping isn’t compulsory, it’s a heartfelt gesture that’s treasured by those assisting you during your tour. Though it might differ from practices in your homeland, it plays a significant role in the tourism sector within SPT Travel & Tours destinations. Feel free to tip according to the quality and length of your visit. Tipping is a way to acknowledge exceptional service, but provide it only when you feel it’s truly earned.