Cusco, thanks to its varied and exuberant geography, invite to live all kinds of experiences. Experiences that a single trip would not be possible to discover. In Peru Mysteries we highlight some of these places and activities and we put at your disposal with a professionalism that will allow you to enjoy.

 

The Ideal Cusco package: 10 days.

 

IDEAL CUSCO 10 DAYS	AROUND CUSCO 03 DAYS	CUSCO CITY TOUR	DAY 01
		CUSCO SACRED VALLEY	DAY 02
		CUSCO SOUTHERN VALLEY	DAY 03
	INKA JUNGLE TO MACHUPICCHU 04 DAYS (Biking, Rafting, hiking & Zip-lining)	CUSCO - SANTA MARIA	DAY 04
		SANTA MARIA - SANTA TERESA	DAY 05
		SANTA TERESA - AGUAS CALIENTES	DAY 06
		AGUAS CALIENTES - MACHUPICCHU - CUSCO	DAY 07
	CUSCO AND AROUND 03 DAYS	RAINBOW MOUNTAIN	DAY 08
		HUMANTAY LAKE	DAY 09
		WAQRAPUKARA	DAY 10
END OF OUR SERVICES...

 

AROUND CUSCO (03 DAYS)

 

ITINERARY DESCRIPTION:

 

DAY 01 - CITY TOUR IN CUSCO:

 

CIRCUIT DESCRIPTION - From 13:30 to 18:30 hours - Cusco tour and surrounding areas

The City Tour circuit begins in the majestic Plaza de Armas of Cusco, where the ancient grandeur of the Andean culture still survives. We will visit the Basilica Cathedral of Cusco (in honor of the Virgin of the Assumption). Then, we will walk through a narrow stone street towards the largest Inca shrine, the Qoricancha temple.

 

After having delighted us with these extraordinary and impressive ensembles of Inca and colonial architecture. We will board our tourist bus and go to the surroundings of the imperial city of Cusco, where we will visit 04 imposing archaeological sites: Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puca Pucara and Tambomachay.

 

• The Cathedral of Cusco, majestic symbol of Andean religious syncretism (Inca - European).
• The Qoricancha, the lavish Inca Temple; also known as the Temple of the Sun.
• The Great Ceremonial Fortress of Sacsayhuamán, with its impressive cyclopean rock platforms.
• The Amphitheater of Qenqo, enigmatic rock headlands and labyrinthine paths.
• The Military Fortress of Puca Pucara, large terraces, stone walls and stairways.
• The Water Temple of Tambomachay, mysterious platforms and ceremonial fountains.

 

THE SERVICE INCLUDES:

1. Private transport
2. Specialized and bilingual tour guide
3. First aid kit

 

THE SERVICE DOES NOT INCLUDE:

1. Tourist Ticket of Cusco (Peruvian: 40 soles; Foreigner: 70 soles). Visits: Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puca Pucara and Tambomachay.
2. Entrance ticket to the Cathedral of Cusco 25 soles.
3. Entrance ticket to the Qoricancha Temple 15 soles
4. Drinks such as: water, sodas, wine or beer
5. Tips and souvenirs

 

THINGS TO BRING:

1. Passport
2. Camera
3. Warm clothes (in case of cold fronts)
4. Rain gear or raincoat (long poncho)
5. Wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and sunscreen for sunny days
6. Medications and / or personal supplies
7. Small backpack
8. Drinking water

 

NOTE: We only visit the Cathedral of Cusco in a private service; in shared service, we do not visit the cathedral of Cusco; but we do visit the other 5 attractions.

DAY 02 - SACRED VALLEY OF THE INKAS - AGUAS CALIENTES:

 

CIRCUIT DESCRIPTION - From 7:00 to 19:00 hours

We pick you up from your hotel in our private transport (7:00 hrs.), And then start with our guided visit to the Sacred Valley of the Incas; We will spend most of our tour around the Vilcanota River and enjoying the panoramic view of this magical place. The places to visit are:

 

• Chinchero, it will be the first archaeological center to visit, it is located northwest of the city of Cusco, over 3762 meters above sea level. Chinchero, the most typical population of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, is a distinctly Inca town that the ambitious conquerors wanted to civilize in order to implant their culture, but never fully achieved it. Its inhabitants inhabit almost intact Inca constructions, in the same place where their ancestors lived and formed the largest and most prosperous civilization in America. Chinchero has a rich monumental and cultural heritage. It is one of the few places that conserves the Inca urban layout in a visible way. The remains of the Inca palace, the colonial church built on a stone base, its impeccable terraces and a colorful Sunday fair are its main attractions.
• Moray, at first glance it looks like a kind of amphitheater. Moray is a concentric platform system, built in three gigantic holes located at different levels. The largest hole contains 12 circular terraces with varying diameters. At the bottom of these holes there is a drainage system that prevents the storage of rainwater. What is striking is the mean annual temperature difference between the top and bottom of the depressions, which reaches approximately 15 ° C (59 ° F) in the main depression about 30 meters deep. For scholars, Moray was possibly an Inca agricultural experimentation center, where cultivation experiments were carried out at different heights (seed production). Moray could have served as a model for the calculation of agricultural production not only in the Urubamba Valley but also in different parts of the Tahuantinsuyo (domestication of wild plants).
• Salineras of Maras, known as "salt mines", they consist of approximately 3,000 wells with an area of about 5 m² on average, built on one side of the slope of the "Qaqawiñay" mountain, which during the dry season are filled or irrigated every 3 days with salty water that emanates from a natural spring located in the upper part of the wells so that when the water evaporates, the salt contained in it gradually solidifies. This process will continue for about a month until a considerable volume of solid salt is obtained, about 10 cm. high from the ground, which is subsequently beaten and thus grainy; the salt will then be bagged in plastic bags (categories) and sent to the markets of the region; Today that salt is being iodized so its consumption is not harmful. The salt mines of Maras look like a white patch between the multicolored green of the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba mountain range. It is shiny and people work in silence. Then we will arrive to Urubamba (Lunch), always traveling near the Vilcanota River.
• Ollantaytambo, located at an altitude of 2700 meters above sea level. Ollantaytambo is a compound Quechua word that derives from: "Ollanta" personal name of an Inca Captain whose story was kept as an oral and written tradition and as a drama by Antonio Valdez, priest of Urubamba, in the middle of the 18th century it was adapted for a play in 1780; and "Tambo" Spanish form of "Tanpu" city that offers lodging, food and comfort for travelers. Ollantaytambo was a very important fortified city, built as a "tanpu" to enable roads to the "Antisuyo" (jungle). According to many historians also to allow the protection of the great capital of the Inca from the attacks of the "Antis" who were his worst enemies. Today its name as "fortress" is common but inappropriate because it did not have a war duty, it was rather a complex city with a large urban sector and religious temples. The original names of the different sectors are unknown.
• Pisaq o Pisac, It will be the last archaeological center to visit. The name "Pisaq" is genuine because it is recorded in some chronicles; Some scholars suggest that the pre-Hispanic city had the shape of a PISAQ or P'ISAQA, which means PERDIZ (a very abundant gallinaceous bird in this area). Písaq combines mystical Inca constructions and the natural wealth of the Urubamba Valley. The cities were built on the basis of figurative lines of animals. Písaq, had the shape of a partridge, as its name indicates. Today Pisac Arqueológico, is constituted as one of the most beautiful monumental centers of the valley since it combines the landscape with the impeccable finish of its constructions. We will also have time to visit the traditional market of Pisac; where we will have the opportunity to shop for handicrafts and souvenirs, we will enjoy their customs and traditions.

 

After Chinchero, we will return directly to the city of Cusco, arriving at approximately 19:00 hours.

 

THE SERVICE INCLUDES:

1. Private transport
2. Specialized and bilingual tour guide
3. Lunch (Prior coordination)
4. First aid kit

 

THE SERVICE DOES NOT INCLUDE:

1. Tourist Ticket Cusco (Peruvian: 40 soles; Foreigner: 70 soles). Visits: Pisaq, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero and Moray
2. Entrance to Salineras (10 soles)
3. Drinks such as: water, sodas, wine or beer
4. Tips and souvenirs

 

THINGS TO BRING:

1. Passport
2. Camera
3. Warm clothes (in case of cold front)
4. Rain gear or raincoat (long poncho)
5. Wide brim hat, sunglasses and sunscreen for sunny days
6. Medications and / or personal supplies
7. Small backpack
8. Water

 

DAY 03 - THE SOUTHERN VALLEY OF CUSCO (TIPÓN-PIKILLACTA-ANDAHUAYLILLAS)

 

CIRCUIT DESCRIPTION - From 09:00 to 14:00 hours - Cusco tour and surrounding areas.

The Southern Valley of Cusco is the perfect route when you look for archaeological sites with a unique landscape environment, in a short period of time. Our tour to the Southern Valley of Cusco starts at your respective hotel at 8:45 am (pick up time) in one of our private vehicles, In the way we are going to enjoy the view of the southern part of Cusco. Following this we can experience the fabulous hydraulic system of Tipón, the straight constructions of Pikillaqta and the famous art of the Cusco school in Andahuaylillas (mural paints). As well as you can enjoy the famous cuisine of the place: in the village of Saylla the "chicharrones", in Tipon the succulent "cuy al horno" (guinea pig) and in Oropesa do not miss trying their famous  bread "pan chuta".

 

INFORMATION OF THE TOURISTIC PLACES:

TIPON.- We will observe the perfectly aligned terraces; 12 different levels that decorate the geographical environment. This walls were constructed with finely carved stones; the irrigation system in which the Inca ideology is determined. The mystery water of this important archaeological site is still used by the local population (farming).

 

PIKILLAQTA.- The characteristics of this great urban center correspond to the development time of the Wari empire (pre-Inca culture). The constructions are made from stone without carving and clay that serves as mortar (pirca style), surrounded by walls up to 12 m high, arranged in sets and separated by straight streets, which provide an aspect of fortress. There are like 700 buildings, 200 courts and 508 stores or Qolcas (maybe houses), among other buildings. It is a sample of a well planned urbanism.

 

SISTINE CHAPEL OF ANDAHUAYLILLAS.- Andahuaylillas is a charming village. The main plaza, studded with enormous pisonay trees, is where is situated the Andahuaylillas jewel, the Church of Saint Peter - the Apostle. Conceived and built by the Jesuits at the beginning of the 17th century, the neo-Baroque decorated temple, its harmonious interior combine to make it one of the region's most beautiful churches.

 

THE SERVICE INCLUSIVE:

1. Specialized and bilingual tour guide
2. Private transport
3. First aid kit

 

THE SERVICE NOT INCLUSIVE:

1. Entrance fees
2. Drinks
3. Tips and souvenirs

 

YOU SHOULD BRING:

1. Passport
2. Protection against the sun (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
3. Protection against rain
4. Water bottle
5. Camera
6. Extra money (personal expenses)

End of our services. Enjoy the tour…

 

INKA JUNGLE TO MACHUPICCHU (04 DAYS)

 

ITINERARY DESCRIPTION:

 

DAY 04 (CUSCO - SANTA MARIA):

The tour starts at 7:00 in the morning, in one of our private vehicles, from the vehicle we can enjoy the spectacular scenery of the first part of the way, this first part of our trip will be to the Abra Málaga (mountain pass) , at more than 4 200 meters above sea level. After relaxing for a moment we will begin to use the protective equipment provided by "Peru Mysteries" to take us to the mysterious mountains. Mountain bike descent for 03 hours on a paved road and feel the breeze of the wind on our faces, travel costs down a windy mountain, and passing through mountain villages, waterfalls and much more. We will descend a height of 2 000 meters in almost three hours until we reach Huamanmarka, where we will once again take our bus unit to the town of Santa Maria where our hostal.

 

After lunch and a relaxing moment we will prepare our selves to do rafting, our next adventure on this day. The canoeing takes place in the Santa Maria river and it is level 02-03, in which we will not only enjoy the adventure and adrenaline; but also of the beauty of the place, after this we will return to our accommodation to spend the night.

 

DAY 05 (SANTA MARIA - SANTA TERESA):

An early wake up (7 am.) of the night in the jungle, and after a good breakfast, our day will begin with a brief but intense climb, to start the walk on an authentic Inka Trail, surrounded by the impressive cliffs and precipices of the amazing valley in which we walk. The guide with his explanations will transport us to the time of the Inkas, revealing some of the secrets of this surprising and mysterious place. The path descends to Quellomayo, where we will stop for lunch and we will have time to relax (hammocks). Try to taste the natural and endemic fruits of the area (especially the fruits of passion). After lunch we continue walking along the edge of the Sacred Urubamba River. This day we walk around 16 km. concluding with a visit to the clean and medicinal thermal waters of Santa Teresa. A comfortable hostel and a nice dinner await us in Santa Teresa.

 

DAY 06 (SANTA TERESA - AGUAS CALIENTES):

An early awakening on this third day to have the opportunity to continue walking, or choose to fly in the air 150 meters above the ground, the river and the jungle. The zip line option includes 5 different lines, transport to the zip line, and we will see if we are brave enough to lian back into the upside down monkey position or extend our dive arms and head in the superman position. We will arrive at the Hydroelectric to have lunch. Then continue our trek for another three hours along the train tracks until we reach the town of Aguas Calientes where we will spend the night in a comfortable hostal. In Aguas Calientes we relax and explore the city before dinner.

 

DAY 07 (AGUAS CALIENTES - MACHUPICCHU - CUSCO):

The climb to Machupicchu begins early before sunrise. Starting 30 minutes on a flat road and then climbing step by step for approximately 1:00 hour the stairs to the lost city of the Inkas or citadel of "Machupicchu". We will be guided for two hours on a tour that will reveal the mysteries of this magical place. Then we will explore this magical place for ourselves and try to obtain the perfect photo before starting our descent back to Aguas Calientes for then take the train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo for 45 minutes aprox. and to take our return bus to Cusco.

 

Notes:

• The time of return to Cusco will depend on the train option you choose, the compamy in the tour provides the 18:20 hours train
• After the tour, you have the option of going up the mountain Huayna Picchu or the mountain of Machupicchu for one more hour, from the top of these mountains you have an incredible view of Machupicchu, the surrounding mountains and valleys (book in advance)
• Huayna Picchu is the mountain located northwest of Machupicchu, is steeper, but more popular and has interesting archaeological remains at the top
• The Machupicchu mountain is located to the southwest. The Machupicchu mountain is a longer, less crowded and less steep walk

 

THE SERVICE INCLUDES:

1. Specialized and bilingual guide
2. Briefing one or two days before the tour
3. Mountain Biking, Rafting and Zip-line
4. Equipment: Bicycle, Rafting and Zip Line
5. Private transport and transfer from Cusco - Santa Maria. (Starting Trek)
6. Bus tickets to Machupicchu Inka City and to Machupicchu town or Aguas Calientes (optional)
7. Entrances tickets to Machupicchu
8. 03 night in a hostels
9. 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches,  3dinners (Vegetarian option)
10. First aid kid and oxygen
11. Return train tickets (Machupicchu to Ollantaytambo) and bus to Cusco (optional)

 

THE SERVICE DOES NOT INCLUDE:

1. First day breakfast – Last day lunch in Aguas Calientes
2. Tips and souvenirs

 

THINGS YOU SHOULD BRING:

1. Original passport (normal student card)
2. Camera
3. Hiking boots
4. Waterproof jacket/rain jacket
5. Warm clothes (hat and gloves)
6. Towel
7. Sun hat - Sunglasses
8. Sun protection cream (factor 35 recommended)
9. Water container; water purification tablets, or money to buy water along the way
10. Insect repellent
11. Personal medication
12. Torch with spare batteries
13. Walking stick (with rubber tip)
14. Extra money

 

SHORT TREKS IN CUSCO (03 DAYS)

 

ITINERARY DESCRIPTION:

 

DAY 08 (RAINBOW MOUNTAIN): From 05:00 - 18:00 hours.

The Walk is an unforgettable experience; we pick you up from your lodgings early between 04:30 to 05:00 in the morning; for then head to the town of Cusipata where we will take our breakfast. Then we are going to continue by bus for one hour more in the way to the mountain of Vinicunca in the south of Cusco city, observing picturesque landscapes, as well as a great variety of crops that decorate the magical mountains of the area. The varied fauna of the place is impressive, observing animals such as: llamas, alpacas, sheeps and vicuñas.

 

We will arrive by bus approximately at 08:30 am. to the town of Phulawasipata, where the check point of the Rainbow Mountain is; in this area we can make some necessary purchases for the walk (snack, cereals, water or drinks, etc.). Once ready, We will begin our walk. From this point we will walk for approximately 1.5 hours, up the mountain up to the foothills of Vinicunca. Then we continue along a paths that is going to show us a variety of landscapes (mountains and different streams), we will ascend to a height of 5 030 masl, the view point of the mysterious Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca). Once we arrive, the guide is going to explain us about this magic place (ecology traditions and mystery). After the explanation of the guide we will provide us some time to relax, enjoy our refreshment, take photos, videos, etc. In this place covered in magic and mystery.

 

After such a relaxing experience we will start the return walk (01 hour aprox.), arriving to the town of Phulawasipata where we will take our transport back to Cusipata where we will enjoy a delicious lunch. After this, we will have the chance to visit the 4 magnificent lagoons of Acomayo (previous coordination), to finally start with the return to Cusco city, arriving approximately at 06.00 pm. End of our services…

 

DAY 09  (HUMANTAY LAKE): From 05:00 - 18:00 hours.

We will pick you up from your hotel between 4:30 to 5:00 am; then start with our trip in one of our vehicles for approximately 2.5 hours to the town of Mollepata in the Apurimac valley. In Mollepata we will enjoy a delicious breakfast; then continue with our bus trip for another hour with direction to Soraypampa (3 900 meters above sea level); where we then prepare and take a short break, we will start with our walk to the Humantay lake (4 200 meters above sea level). The ascent is approximately 1 hour, during this hike we can enjoy the wonderful landscape surroundings of the place; finally we will arrive at the Humantay Lake, where we will have the guide's explanation and later a free time of exploration. After our visit, we will begin our return trip, 40 minutes walk to our vehicle and then with this to Mollepata, where we will enjoy a delicious Buffet lunch; then start our return to the city of Cusco, arriving approximately between 4 to 5 in the afternoon.

 

DAY 10  (WAQRAPUKARA): From 04:15 - 18:30 hours.

This tour starts early, we will pick you up from your lodging between 3:45 - 4:15 am; to then be transferred in a private mobility for 02 hours through the southern valley of Cusco to the community of Yanapampa. In Yanapampa we will take our breakfast and then continue by vehicle for 01 more hours to the community of Wayki. From Wayki we will start the uphill walking for 40 minutes, then to this, the 01:30 hour walk way becomes flat, thus arriving at the archaeological center of Waqrapukara which we will explore for approximately 40 minutes. After enjoying and relaxing, we will enjoy our lunch; then start with the walk back to Wayki where our mobility awaits us that will bring us back to the city of Cusco, arriving at approximately 06:30 pm.

 

THE SERVICE INCLUDES:

1. Specialized and bilingual tour guide
2. Private transport
3. Meals (breakfast and lunch)
4. Oxigent and first aid kit

 

THE SERVICE DOES NOT INCLUDE:

1. Entrance fees
2. Extras, drinks, tips and souvenirs

 

THINGS YOU SHOULD BRING:

1. Original Passport
2. Camera
3. Warm clothes
4. Waterproof rain gear (long poncho)
5. Wide brim hat and sun glasses for sunny days
6. Sunscreen lotion
7. Personal medication and/or supplies
8. Day pack
9. Drinking water
10. Extra money (personal expenses)

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MAP - IDEAL CUSCO - "PERU MYSTERIES"