Cusco Esencial: The Ultimate Guided Tour Experience in Cusco, Peru

5.0/5 Stars - Based on 8 Reviews

Essential Cusco Tour: Discover the Heart of Peru – Book Now!


Cusco , the navel of the world, is a jewel of Inca architecture and of its imposing empire, which left behind much history and mysteries of the lifestyle of this incredible civilization.

This one-week Cusco tour package will take you to discover the most representative archaeological sites such as Sacsayhuaman , Koricancha , Machu Picchu , Ollantaytambo and the South Valley , with the famous Sistine Chapel of America in Andahuaylillas .

Explore all the most emblematic places, and be amazed by the Lost City of the Incas.
7d/6n
Every day
Airport or Bus Station in the City of Cusco
Airport or Bus Station in the City of Cusco

About this tour


Arrival in Cusco

DAY 1. Arrival in Cusco, and transfer from the airport or bus station to the hotel located in the city center. Rest of the day at leisure, and overnight stay at the hotel.


Cusco City Tour and 4 nearby ruins

DAY 2. Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, we will pick you up from your hotel and begin the tour by visiting the Temple of the Sun, also known as Koricancha. This emblematic site is a clear example of the fusion of Inca and Spanish cultures, and its foundation was used to build the Church and Convent of Santo Domingo.

We will visit the main Cathedral located in the Plaza Mayor, which has beautiful religious art, much of it belonging to the Cusco School.

We will continue the Cusco City Tour towards the Sacsayhuaman archaeological complex, where you can appreciate this magnificent building of enormous carved stones that fit together perfectly, and it is said that it was built by more than 20,000 men, and that it took them around 70 years to finish it.

Next, we'll visit the religious center of Qenqo, where they worshipped their gods, such as the sun, the moon, and the earth. One of its main attractions is the underground galleries, and you'll also see a semicircular amphitheater. We'll continue this interesting excursion at the military site of Puca Pucará, which in Spanish means "Red Fortress" because of its reddish-colored architecture.

Next, we will visit the Tambomachay water worship center, which features aqueducts and waterfalls fed by nearby springs. After this visit, you will be taken to Plaza El Regocijo, one block from the Plaza de Armas.


Chinchero, Maras Salt Mines and Moray Ruins

DAY 3. Early in the morning, we will pick you up from your hotel to begin this interesting excursion to   Sacred Valley of the Incas . Our first stop will be in the town of   Chinchero , located 28 km from the city of Cusco. Here we will visit a local textile workshop, where we will appreciate how they use ancestral techniques to make garments.

Continuing along the route, we will arrive at the Salt Mines of   Maras , on an open hill in the   Urubamba Valley , where a natural current of saltwater runs underground. This incredible process, created by the Incas, causes the water to evaporate and the salt to crystallize within the more than 3,000 natural pools found there.


Next, we'll head to the ruins of Moray , which consist of three coliseums believed to have been used by the Incas as a kind of open-air agricultural laboratory. The coliseums are made up of several enormous circular depressions on terraces, the largest of which is about 30 meters (98 feet) deep. Admire these terraces, arranged in concentric circles and reminiscent of an ancient Greek theater.

The Sacred Valley of the Incas boasts vast fertile lands perfect for agriculture, as well as impressive archaeological sites that showcase the Inca Empire 's way of life and advanced construction techniques. At the end of the tour, we will return to the city of Cusco and drop you off at Plaza El Regocijo, one block from the Plaza de Armas.


Pisac Market, Ollantaytambo Ruins and Expedition Train to Machu Picchu

DAY 4. Breakfast at the hotel. We will pick you up from your hotel to begin the tour to the town of Pisac, a place that boasts a fantastic market and an archaeological center with temples and stone buildings, offering a wonderful view of the valley, as well as views of the terraces.

Next, we'll continue our journey to Urubamba for a delicious buffet lunch, and then we'll arrive in the town of Ollantaytambo. We'll visit its temple, which served as the headquarters of the Inca army, as well as a religious and agricultural center. It boasts breathtaking views of the valley and over a hundred terraces with irrigation canal systems that were very advanced for their time.

Finally, we will transfer you to the train station in Ollantaytambo to board the Expedition Train to Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival, you will be assisted with your transfer to the hotel and will have a short meeting with your guide before the tour to Machu Picchu. Overnight at the hotel.


Machu Picchu

DAY 5. Breakfast at the hotel. Early in the morning, you will board your transport for an ascent along a winding road, offering spectacular views of the Urubamba River as it carves the famous canyon. Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas, will welcome you with its incredible terraces, staircases, ceremonial sites, and urban areas.

Energy emanates from the entire place. After a guided tour, you will have time to continue exploring this fantastic place, or return by bus to the town of Aguas Calientes for lunch (optional).

At the agreed-upon time, you will return by train to Ollantaytambo and be transferred to your hotel in the city of Cusco. Overnight stay at the hotel.


South Valley: Tipón, Pikillaqta and Andahuaylillas

DAY 6. Breakfast at the hotel. After picking you up from your hotel, we will head to the South Valley of Cusco, beginning our tour at the Tipón Water Temple, a vast area containing 12 impressive terraces. Even more impressive is the irrigation system, still in operation, which continues to irrigate crops to this day.

The next stop is Pikillaqta, which has the characteristics of an important pre-Inca urban center, and was of great relevance to the development of the Huari Empire.

Next, we continue to Andahuaylillas. In this typical Andean town, you can visit the famous chapel, also known as the "Sistine Chapel of the Americas." We will return to the city of Cusco and drop you off at Plaza El Regocijo, one block from the Plaza de Armas.


Departure from Cusco

DAY 7. Breakfast at the hotel. Pick-up at the agreed time to transfer you to the bus station or airport in the city of Cusco.


** END OF SERVICES **


What's included

  • Private arrival and departure transfers with driver only. * Hotel accommodations with breakfast included. * Lunch on the Sacred Valley tour of Pisac and Ollantaytambo. * Shared excursions with a Spanish/English speaking guide. * Entrance tickets. * Expedition train to Machu Picchu.

Not included

  • Domestic and international flights (prices may vary) * Meals and beverages * Gratuities * Entrance to Huayna Picchu * Second entrance to Machu Picchu * Assistance during arrival and departure transfers

Mild

We recommend proper acclimatization to the altitude before starting any activity

* Sunglasses * Sunscreen * Sun hat * Wool hat and gloves * Coat * Comfortable clothes and shoes * Camera

* Non-refundable rates * Rates are not valid for holidays such as Easter, long weekends, national holidays, Christmas, and New Year's. * Rates are not valid for Peruvians and residents, as well as foreigners staying longer than 60 days in Peru. Photos copyright: © Karina Mendoza/PROMPERÚ © Victor Manuel Chavez/PROMPERÚ © Alfonso Zavala/PROMPERÚ © Heinz Plenge Pardo/PROMPERÚ

Location

Rates

From CLP 1,702,855

Essential Cusco Package With Standard Hotel

From CLP 1,545,984

ESSENTIAL CUSCO PACKAGE WITH STANDARD HOTEL

Starts 12:00 7 days Español, English
Operates: Every day

Essential Cusco Package With Superior Hotel

From CLP 1,726,633

ESSENTIAL CUSCO PACKAGE WITH SUPERIOR HOTEL

Starts 12:00 7 days Español, English
Operates: Every day

Essential Cusco Package With Luxury Hotel

From CLP 2,932,212

ESSENTIAL CUSCO PACKAGE WITH LUXURY HOTEL

Starts 12:00 7 days Español, English
Operates: Every day
CANCELACION
General Terms
COSTO
Average
DIFICULTAD
Low

Frequently asked questions

The Essential Cusco tour package offers an unforgettable experience in one of Peru's most impressive destinations. It includes visits to major archaeological sites such as Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, and the impressive citadel of Ollantaytambo. It also explores the wonders of Cusco, with visits to the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, and the Temple of the Sun, known as Qoricancha. This excursion is designed to provide a complete immersion in the culture and history of the ancient Inca empire, ensuring an enriching and memorable tourist experience.

The price of the "Cusco Essential" package includes accommodations in selected hotels, airport transfers, transportation on guided tours, entrance fees to major archaeological sites, and the services of professional tour guides. Some meals, specified in the tour itinerary, are also included. It is important to review all the details about each service to ensure full coverage during the excursion. This package is designed for you to enjoy a worry-free vacation while immersing yourself in the cultural and historical richness of Cusco.

Cusco, located in the Peruvian Andes, has a fairly varied climate. Generally, the dry season is from May to October, which is the best time to visit due to the clear skies that allow for better views of the landscapes and tourist sites. The rainy season runs from November to April, when precipitation can affect some outdoor activities. However, the weather in Cusco can vary considerably even within a single day, so it is always recommended to bring appropriate clothing for weather changes, such as light layers, waterproof jackets, and sunscreen.

The best time to take the "Essential Cusco" tour is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During these months, the weather is most pleasant, with sunny days and minimal chances of rain, making it easier to explore the archaeological sites and Andean landscapes. June is especially attractive due to the Inti Raymi festivities, one of the largest cultural celebrations in Cusco. However, each season has its charm, and fewer tourists visit between November and April, which can offer a more peaceful and personalized experience.

Cusco is located approximately 3,400 meters above sea level, which presents a challenge for some travelers unaccustomed to high altitudes. To avoid altitude sickness, it is recommended to take it easy for the first few days, stay well hydrated, and avoid heavy meals and alcohol consumption. Many visitors find it helpful to drink coca tea, a traditional Andean beverage known for aiding acclimatization. While this can be a concern, by following proper precautions, most tourists enjoy their stay without major inconveniences.
5.0 8 reviews
5.0

Ein unvergesslicher Trip: Höhepunkte von Cusco in nur wenigen Tagen!

Das war einfach eine fantastische Erfahrung! Von den Ruinen von Sacsayhuamán bis zum magischen Machu Picchu – dieser Tour bietet alles, was man in Cusco sehen muss. Die Organisation war top und unser Guide sehr kompetent und lustig. Hatte die beste Zeit meines Lebens und würde es jedem empfehlen!

Sebastian Müller
5.0

Incroyable voyage à Cusco avec Tangol Tours, une expérience unique

Ce voyage à Cusco avec Tangol Tours était absolument incroyable ! Les paysages sont époustouflants et les guides très sympathiques et bien informés. J'ai vraiment adoré la visite de Machu Picchu, c'était magique. L'organisation du voyage était parfaite, tout était bien planifié. Je recommande vivement ce tour à tous les amateurs d'aventure et de culture.

Cécile Dubois
5.0

Visita a Cusco

Se você for visitar Cusco, você deve considerar o tour . Vair ser uma experiência daquelas!

Luiz
5.0

Dia incrível em Cusco

Se você vai viajar para Cusco não perca o passeio . É uma experiência única!

michelle
5.0

Great experience in Cusco

If you are visiting Cusco, consider the tour . We had a really great time!

Hellen
5.0

Incredible day in Cusco

if you are traveling to Cusco you shouldn´t miss the tour . It is a unique experience!

Mike
5.0

Nuestra visita a Cusco

Para aquellos que visiten Cusco, recomendamos la excursión Paquete Turístico A Cusco. Nosotros tuvimos una gran experiencia!

Joaquin
5.0

Increible día en Cusco

Si van a estar de viaje por Cusco no dejen de realizar la excursión Paquete Turístico A Cusco. No se van a arrepentir!

Jesus
From CLP 1,702,855

Price from, per person CLP 1,702,855.00

January 2027
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