5-Day Cusco Explorer

5-Day Cusco Explorer

Cusco, Machu Picchu
(526)
Physical Level
Trip Style
Hiking
Max Altitude
3300msnm
Group Size
Min 2 Persons
Trip Length
Starting from
$ .00
per person

This 5-day Cusco Explorer package combines cultural discovery, adrenaline, and natural beauty. Ride ATVs through the Sacred Valley to explore Moray and the Maras Salt Mines, uncover the history of Cusco, visit the Sacred Valley, discover the wonders of Machu Picchu, and finish your journey with the breathtaking hike to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca). The perfect balance of adventure and heritage in one unforgettable trip.

Travel map of: 5-Day Cusco Explorer
Mapa del tour

This 5-day Cusco Explorer Package perfectly balances cultural discovery with heart-pumping experiences:

Begin your journey with a thrilling half-day ATV tour to Moray and Maras, riding through Andean landscapes offers panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and access to remote Inca sites

Next, explore Cusco’s city landmarks and the Sacred Valley—visit ancient sites like Pisac and Ollantaytambo(drawing from Willka Travel’s structure) Continue your journey with a full-day guided tour to Machu Picchu, the crown jewel of Inca civilization, where knowledgeable guides will reveal the site’s mysteries and splendour

Finally, embark on an early morning hike to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), with its multicolored slopes and breathtaking panoramic views—an unforgettable high-altitude experience

This itinerary offers a diverse and compact experience of Peru’s highlights—historic, natural, and adventurous—all within just five days

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco

  • Airport pick-up and transfer to hotel.
  • Free time to acclimatize to the altitude.
  • Optional evening stroll through Cusco’s Plaza de Armas.
  • Overnight in Cusco.

Day 2: ATV Adventure Moray & Maras + Cusco City Tour

  • Morning: Thrilling ATV ride through the Sacred Valley, exploring the circular terraces of Moray and the Maras Salt Mines.
  • Afternoon: Cusco City Tour – Cathedral, Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun), Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, and Tambomachay.
  • Overnight in Cusco.

Day 3: Sacred Valley Tour – Pisac & Ollantaytambo

  • Full-day guided tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
  • Visit Pisac’s traditional market and archaeological site.
  • Lunch in Urubamba.
  • Explore Ollantaytambo fortress and town.
  • Overnight in Sacred Valley or Cusco.

Day 4: Full-Day Machu Picchu

  • Early train ride to Aguas Calientes.
  • Guided tour of Machu Picchu Citadel, exploring temples, terraces, and viewpoints.
  • Free time for photos and personal exploration.
  • Return train to Cusco in the evening.
  • Overnight in Cusco.

Day 5: Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)

  • Early morning departure for Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain)
  • Enjoy panoramic views of the colorful mountain landscapes.
  • Picnic-style breakfast and lunch included.
  • Return to Cusco in the afternoon.
  • Transfer to the airport or hotel drop-off.

Inclusions

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off in Cusco.
  • 4 nights accommodation in Cusco (3-star or similar).
  • Daily breakfast at hotels.
  • Guided ATV tour to Moray & Maras (ATVs, helmets, and gear included).
  • Cusco City Tour with entrances.
  • Sacred Valley Tour with buffet lunch.
  • Round-trip train to Machu Picchu (Expedition or similar).
  • Bus transfers to/from Machu Picchu entrance.
  • Professional English-speaking guide at all sites.
  • Entry ticket to Machu Picchu.
  • Rainbow Mountain hike with meals and transport.
  • All ground transfers in private/shared transport.

Exclusions

  • International and domestic flights.
  • Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTC) – required for Sacred Valley & city sites.
  • Meals not mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain entrance (optional, extra cost).
  • Travel insurance.
  • Personal expenses and tips.

WHAT TO BRING

  • Original passport (mandatory to enter Machu Picchu)
  • Small bag (5 kg max allowed on the train to and from Aguas Calientes)
  • Small day pack for personal items in Machu Picchu (max allowed size is 25L)
  • Comfortable clothes and appropriate footwear (hiking boots or good sneakers are recommended)
  • Extra money for food, water, souvenirs and snacks (in Peruvian Soles)
  • Sunscreen & Sunglasses
  • Water
  • Scarf or hat in order to protect against the intense sunlight
  • Warm jacket for the evening/wind
  • Personal medication

RECOMMENDATIONS

IN CUSCO:

We recommend buying the 10 day tourist ticket for 130 Soles, which will give you access to all of the ruins sites in the Sacred Valley and in Cusco, as well as other attractions and museums in Cusco.

IN MACHU PICCHU:

If you are looking for an additional challenge once you arrive in Machu Picchu, there are some excellent hiking options.

  1. SUN GATE: It is a short hike up from the ruins and is always available and free to the public. This is a wonderful place to visit with amazing views to Machu Picchu.
  2. HUAYNA PICCHU MOUNTAIN: The most famous additional climb to do while in there that provides spectacular views of the ruins and surrounding area. This must be booked in advance for an additional cost, and often sells out. The climb takes 45 minutes and is moderately difficult. This is not recommended if you have vertigo or do not like heights.
  3. MACHU PICCHU MOUNTAIN: Another great option to climb up and see the ruins from a different angle. A 1.5 hours steep climb and can be very physically demanding, but the spectacular views from the top definitely make it worthwhile. This must be booked in advance for an additional cost, and often sells out.

PRICE REDUCTIONS FOR:

Groups of more than 5 people
Students with a valid international ISIC presented at time of booking
Children and adolescents under the age of 17.

Changes and Refunds

Machu Picchu Tickets
– Machu Picchu tickets cannot be modified or refunded once issued.

Train and Bus Tickets
– They can be modified with a minimum of 15 days’ notice prior to the service date.
– Changes are subject to availability, possible penalties, and fare adjustments according to the policies of each train company.
– The same time, class, or original price is not guaranteed.

Refund Policy
– Once the reservation is confirmed, it is not possible to request a refund.

Why is the tourist ticket not included?

The Boleto Turístico (tourist ticket) is a personal ticket and is not sold in advance. It must be purchased in Cusco or at the entrance of the visited sites where this ticket is required.
Check our guide with all the information about the tourist ticket. 

Does this tour include accommodation in Aguas Calientes?

To include the accommodation, please contact our team and inform them of your preferred hotel category and number of people.

What to do with my luggage during the trip to Machu Picchu?

The maximum baggage weight allowed on the trains to Machu Picchu is 5kg per person. We recommend that you travel with as little as possible and leave the rest of your luggage at your hotel in Cusco.. If you check out when you travel to Machu Picchu, most hotels will allow you to leave your luggage in the hotel’s storage room.

What time will I enter Machu Picchu?

The entrance times for this tour are as early as 7am, but may vary according to ticket availability at the time of booking. Remember: the earlier you make your reservation, the more likely you are to get the best times.

I would like a private tour. Is it possible?

Yes, just get in touch with our team and we can provide you with a quote for a 100% private tour and a customized experience.

After the guided tour in Machu Picchu, can I stay longer on my own? 

No. During the pandemic, restrictive measures were adopted that prevent you from wandering freely after the guided tour. All visitors are only allowed to travel in one direction and can not walk backwards to where they have already been. However, we’ll give you ample time to take pictures and explore during our guided tour.

Can I rent horses to hike the Humantay Lake or the Rainbow Mountain?

Yes, horses are available for rent on both mountains for about 90 soles per person (each way of each mountain). Your guide will help you with the negotiation.

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