Cusco is a beautiful city located in southeastern Peru, known for its rich history and stunning architecture. So, why not make the most of your time in the city with our 5-day Cusco tour package? Our Cusco excursion tour typically includes a visit to the famous Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, which is accessible by train from Cusco.
During a Cusco tour, you will explore the city’s unique blend of Inca and Spanish colonial architecture, including the impressive Plaza de Armas and the ancient ruins of Sacsayhuaman, Q’enqo, Tambomachay, and Puca Pucara. If you’re just passing through the city, you can always join our half-day Cusco city tour.
During the tour, you can indulge in the delicious local cuisine, which features traditional Peruvian dishes such as ceviche, lomo saltado, and rocoto relleno. Additionally, Cusco is home to a vibrant market scene where you can purchase souvenirs, handicrafts, and textiles.
However, when you tour Cusco for five days with us, you’ll be able to experience all this and more.
From exploring the Sacred Valley to discovering the beauty of Machu Picchu, our 5-day tour has it all. That said, Machu Picchu won’t be the only destination you visit during the five days. You’ll also venture through the Maras Salt Mines, get lost in the South Valley, enjoy some quiet time at Moray, and snap some epic photos at Rainbow Mountain.
As an all-inclusive stay, your lodging and most of your meals will also be catered for. And to add the cherry on top, you’ll have plenty of free time to explore the sights and sounds of Cusco at your own pace.
So, if this sounds like your type of Peruvian getaway, keep reading for more information about this fantastic tour.
Top Tip: Another popular activity in Cusco is hiking, with the famous Inca Trail leading to Machu Picchu. Other options include the Salkantay Trek and the Lares Trek.
5-Day Tour From Cusco Details
Here are all the finer details you’ll need to know before booking your 5-day Cusco tour package.
Highlights of Our 5-Day Tours From Cusco
Type of Tour: Trek, Culture, History, Journey by Car and Train.
Good for: Travelers who want to visit the top sites in and around Cusco. This includes visits to Machu Picchu, South Valley, Sacred Valley, Rainbow Mountain, and the Maras Salt Mines.
Difficulty: Easy during trips to the Sacred Valley, Maras & Moray, South Valley, and Machu Picchu. Hard for the trek to Rainbow Mountain.
Consideration: AVAILABLE ALL YEAR.
Useful Information About Our Cusco Tours
- We provide vehicle transportation with all the protocols for safe travel.
- Above all, your safety is our top priority.
- Enjoy stays at 3-star hotels in Cusco and Aguas Calientes — San Agustin and Inti Punku.
- It’s a great option for anyone wanting to visit Machu Picchu via the Sacred Valley.
- The tour also covers other iconic sites around Cusco, such as Rainbow Mountain and the Maras Salt Mines.
- You’ll have plenty of fantastic photo opportunities throughout the tour.
- Your belongings are going to be safely transported by car and train throughout the tour.
- Enjoy an amazing sunrise at Machu Picchu early on day two.
- Discover the diverse flora and fauna of Peru.
- You’ll be able to visit Machu Picchu without embarking on the strenuous hike along the Inca Trail
- You must be prepared for a lot of mosquitoes at the Lost City of the Incas (Machu Picchu).
- We are using local staff and natural resources throughout the experience.
- We are a local company that practices sustainable responsibility.
- You’ll get a briefing with your Sparrow Explorer agent in our office or your hotel the day before the tour begins.
What to Expect From These 5-Day Tours in Cusco
Here, we cover everything you can expect when you join this tour. This includes all the things to do in Cusco, Peru, during your free time, as well as what is included during the tour times.
Day 1: Sacred Valley Full Day Tour
Day one kicks off with an amazing cultural tour of the Sacred Valley. You’ll have the opportunity to discover the best archaeological sites in the Valley of The Incas. Throughout the drive to Ollantaytambo, you’ll be captivated by sweeping vistas of the Andean Mountain and terraced crops synonymous with the Amaru Community.
We’ll take you past the small town of Pisac, where vibrant local markets offer a glimpse into local life. You’ll also visit the Pisac Archeological Site, which showcases the architectural ingenuity of the Incas. Be ready to snap some photos and explore the old fortress and farming terraces of this historic site.
As we continue along the scenic road to Ollantaytambo, the stunning views continue to roll past, offering even more photo opportunities. Once we reach Ollantaytambo, you’ll most likely be hungry, and this is when we’ll visit a local alpaca farm for an amazing buffet lunch. This isn’t included in the tour cost but offers a great chance to try out some classic Peruvian dishes.
After lunch, you’ll spend some time exploring Ollantaytambo Sanctuary, which is another example of Incan engineering and architecture. Once you’ve enjoyed a tour of this scenic spot, you’ll join the train for Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll spend the night at Inti Punku before visiting Machu Picchu.
Day 2: Exploring Machu Picchu
Starting bright and early, we’ll catch the bus to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes. We’ll aim to get to Machu Picchu for sunrise so you can appreciate the morning’s first rays at one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
The day consists of an extensive guided tour of the famed archeological site, providing insider tips and information about Machu Picchu. We’ll clue you in on all the best spots to take your postcard-worthy photos, and help you take them too, if you like. You’ll also have some time to wander around the grounds yourself, so just be sure to meet at the rendezvous point.
After spending much of the day exploring, we’ll return to Cusco City for any additional activities if we have time. You’ll also spend the rest of your stay at the stunning San Agustin Hotel.
Day 3: Explore Maras Salt Mines & Moray
Start day three with a magical guided tour of the Maras Salt Mines and the Moray ruins. You’ll learn all about the history and use of the Maras Salt Mines. With more than 3,000 salt pools fed by the subsoil of the Qaqawiñay mountain, it’s safe to say this is an attraction that’ll live long in the memory.
The tour also consists of a visit to the Moray ruins, which are three groups of large circular terraces — also known as muyus. With 12 levels in each circular amphitheater, it’s a true marvel worth every minute of your visit.
Throughout this half-day tour, you’ll have the opportunity to soak up the eclectic views of the Sacred Valley before heading back to Cusco. We’ll then take you to a highly regarded local restaurant for a true taste of Peruvian cuisine.
The rest of the day is all yours, as you have some free time to explore the historic center of Cusco. You can visit the Museum of Qorikancha, wander along the avenue El Sol, or catch a show at the Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo.
The possibilities really are endless. If you want some guidance, just ask your tour guide, and they’ll be happy to help you find activities that suit your interests.
Day 4: South Valley Tour
The penultimate day of your tour package starts with a half-day excursion through the South Valley. You’ll see a lot of the valley, from the forts at Rumiqolqa to the farming terraces of Tipon.
Colonial churches are also very much on the agenda, as we’ll visit some of the most historic churches in the region. Saint Peter the Apostle of Andahuaylillas is considered one of the most significant churches in South America, and it’ll be included in the trip.
After touring the South Valley, we’ll return to Cusco for another visit to one of your recommended restaurants. During the meal, we’ll recommend some of the lesser-known areas of the city that are definitely worth visiting.
After lunch, you’ll have free time to explore Cusco on your own. You can visit some of the places we recommended during the lunch, but you’re also more than welcome to venture to some of the usual tourist attractions. Saqsaywaman is such a place worth visiting, and so is Tupac Amaru Square.
Day 5: Rainbow Mountain
To end your 5-day Cusco, Peru tour on a high, we’ll travel to the iconic Rainbow Mountain. While most of the tour has consisted of comfortable drives and guided walks, day five entails a difficult climb.
It’s a 5 km (3.1-mile) climb to the top of the mountain and a 10 km (6.2-mile) trek altogether. If you struggle at any point, we will assist you in any way possible. While it’s a strenuous climb to the top, the views you’ll have at the end will all be worth the effort.
Sun-soaked views of Ausangate will be on display — it’s the highest snow-capped mountain in the region. That’s not the mountain’s true calling card, though. It’s the unique range of colors seen at Rainbow Mountain.
During the hike and drive to and from Rainbow Mountain, you’ll have the opportunity to see alpacas within the Cusco countryside. After a difficult trek with sweeping views, we’ll return back to Cusco, where we’ll conclude your tour and say goodbye until next time.
What Is Included in Your 5-Day Cusco Tour
- Pick up from your hotel by your professional tour guide.
- Professional trilingual tour guide (English — Spanish — Quechua).
- Entrance fee to Machu Picchu.
- Bus Transportation from Cusco to Sacred Valley.
- Train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town).
- Meals (5 snacks and 5 breakfasts).
- Bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. (way up)
- Tour of the Machu Picchu Archaeological Site.
- Bus tickets from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes (way down).
- Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
- Bus from Ollantaytambo to Cusco (provided by train company).
- Transportation from the Cusco Train Office to your hotel (privately provided by us).
- VEGETARIAN FOOD IS OPTIONAL WITHOUT EXTRA COST!!!
- Oxygen tank and first aid kit for altitude and your safety
- 3-star hotels in Aguas Caliente and Cusco.
- Entrance fee to Sacred Valley Inca Sites.
- Entrance fee to Rainbow Mountain.
- We will transport your belongings to your hotels
What Is Excluded From Your 5-Day Cusco Tour
- Lunch and dinners are excluded from the cost.
- Tips for the driver and tour guide (they are greatly appreciated).
- Extra snacks.
- Travel insurance.
- Entrance fee for Huayna Picchu Mountain.
Helpful Information for Your 5-Day Cusco Vacation Package
Here are a few things to keep in mind before booking this two-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour.
Altitude Sickness
It’s common to start wondering about altitude sickness when planning a trip to Peru, especially in Cusco. However, it’s easy to see the signs of altitude sickness.
Headaches, tiredness, dizziness, nausea, tingling, loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, and vomiting are all common symptoms of altitude sickness. If you suffer from one of these symptoms, please contact our company or a doctor for assistance.
It’s worth noting, though, that altitude sickness is usually temporary, and staying hydrated with water and coca tea will help a lot. However, some of our customers prefer pills, in which case we suggest you have acetazolamide or dexamethasone and come to Cusco a few days before you intend on taking this tour.
Training for the Inca Trail can also be done by staying in high-altitude regions of Peru for a couple of days before the trek. You can also spend a few days in Cusco drinking plenty of water and coca tea.
Weather
In general, the Andes’ weather is unpredictable, so we suggest being prepared for anything. This is why having waterproof clothes will be a big help, as it can be sunny one minute and rainy the next.
First Aid Kit
All of our mountain guides have their first aid kits and a lot of training in first aid in the mountains. Every year, they receive classes from doctors on how to treat the most frequent problems — diarrhea, cuts, headaches, scrapes, etc.
They will also have an oxygen tank to help you feel much better should you need it. You’re more than welcome to bring your own first aid kit for the trek.
Travel Insurance
It is always a good idea to have travel insurance during your travels. Our tour doesn’t include travel insurance, so we highly recommend getting insurance before you leave for Peru. This will come in handy if you have any serious illness or if something happens while you’re on holiday.
If you don’t have travel insurance, this is also fine, and you are still more than welcome to book this tour.
Environmental Impact
This company is a travel agency that protects our environment. We’re a sustainable company that uses biodegradable packaging for meals. We also consider the leave-no-trace principles during our tours as a way to help reduce the effects of global warming and ensure everyone protects our home (planet Earth).
Community
Most important for us is our amazing team. As we are a local company, the families and communities of our team feel proud of everyone involved at Sparrow Explorer. By sharing the culture and knowledge of our ancestors, everyone who joins our tours can better understand our traditions, behaviors, and customs.
By doing this, we can help protect everything left by our ancestors, as we believe in “Love just the things that you know.” This way, in our own small way, we can help preserve the amazing Inca culture for generations to come.
