TOUR DETAILS:
Duration: 6 days, 5 nights
Start Point: Cusco Airport
End Point: Cusco Airport
Departure Dates: Available in June for both group and private services
Tour Type: Adventure, Cultural, and Historical
Train Options: Expedition Train – the most economical and comfortable way to reach Machu Picchu
Hotel Options: Accommodation in 3-star hotels included. For upgrades, please inform us.
Single Room Option: Solo travelers who wish to have a private single room throughout the trip should indicate this preference during online booking (Additional cost: US$ 25 per night).

Highlights:

• An unforgettable journey rich in Inca traditions, history, and stunning mountain views.
• Visit Cusco, the ancient Inca capital, and immerse yourself in its unique cultural heritage.
• Discover the Sacred Valley and explore its fascinating archaeological sites.
• Embark on a short trek along the Short Inca Trail, enjoying breathtaking views of the Andes Mountains.
• Enjoy luxury accommodations and savor exquisite local cuisine at every stop.

Brief Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco
Begin your adventure hassle-free: share your flight details for a seamless pick-up service. Get ready to dive into the heart of the Andes.

Day 2: Explore the Sacred Valley
Focus on the vibrant town and market of Pisac, where colors and culture intertwine. In the afternoon, travel to the ancient Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo. Recharge with a comfortable overnight stay surrounded by history.

Days 3-4: Adventure on the Short Inca Trail
Take a scenic 1 hour 45-minute train ride to Chachabamba (km 104), the perfect starting point for your trek. Trek through the splendor of the Andes for 6-7 hours towards the legendary Machu Picchu. In the afternoon, descend to the charming town of Aguas Calientes. The next day, immerse yourself deeply in the mysteries of Machu Picchu before a picturesque return to Cusco.

Day 5: Celebrate Inti Raymi
Immerse yourself in the cultural heart of the Incas at the Inti Raymi festival. Feel the energy of Qoricancha, witness the splendor of the main plaza, and absorb the ancestral spirit at the Sacsayhuamán fortress.

Day 6: Until Next Time
Enjoy your final Peruvian breakfast before we guarantee a smooth transfer to the airport. Let the memories of this captivating journey inspire your future adventures.

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco

Your Inti Raymi Adventure Tour begins upon your arrival at Cusco Airport at any time. However, we will need your flight details in advance to arrange your pick-up. Our staff will be ready to welcome you and transfer you to your designated hotel.

If you arrive before noon, you have the option to join our City Tour, which starts at 1:30 p.m. and ends at 6:30 p.m. at the main square, giving you the opportunity to enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants.

During the City Tour, you’ll visit Qoricancha and explore several Inca temples around the city, including Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Tambomachay, and Pucapucara.
No additional activities are scheduled for today.

Day 2: Sacred Valley Tour – Cusco to Pisac, Urubamba & Ollantaytambo

Set off on a fascinating journey through the Sacred Valley, one of the most treasured regions of the Inca Empire.
At 8:00 a.m., we will pick you up from your hotel for a scenic drive through this fertile valley, which held immense agricultural and spiritual significance for the Incas.

This full-day excursion includes visits to two major archaeological sites: Pisac and Ollantaytambo.
Admire the masterful Inca craftsmanship as you explore these ancient wonders, all while soaking in the breathtaking Andean scenery.

The Sacred Valley stretches along the Vilcanota River (also known as the Sacred River), flanked by towering mountains reaching up to 5700 m. In the dry season, the river flows gently; during the rainy season, it transforms into a powerful current — a dramatic show of nature’s force.

We will end our day in the picturesque town of Ollantaytambo, where you’ll explore the impressive Inca fortress and experience the vibrant local culture at 2800 m (9186 ft). Don’t miss the chance to visit the colorful local markets!

Days 3–4: Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

We depart early at 5:30 a.m. with a short 10-minute walk from the hotel to the train station. The train departs at 6:10 a.m., and after a scenic 1 hour 45-minute ride, we’ll arrive at Chachabamba (km 104) at 2100 m (6889 ft).

From here, we begin a 11 km (6.8 mi) trek to Machu Picchu. The first 5 km is a gentle ascent to the Wiñay Wayna Inca site. From there, we gradually ascend to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), which offers a dramatic first glimpse of Machu Picchu — perfect for photos.

Afterward, we descend for about 40 minutes down a stone staircase to a viewing platform overlooking Machu Picchu. From there, a 25-minute bus ride will take us to the town of Aguas Calientes, where we’ll spend the night.

The next morning, we have breakfast at the hotel and take a bus back to Machu Picchu. You’ll enjoy a 2–3 hour guided tour of this iconic site with a professional guide. After the tour, you’ll have some free time to explore, take photos, and appreciate the magic of the citadel.

In the afternoon, we take the bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch. Then at 2:55 p.m., we board the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a transfer to your hotel in Cusco, arriving around 7:30 p.m.

Trek Details:

• Hiking Distance: 11 km / 6.8 miles
• Minimum Elevation: 2,100 m / 6,889 ft
• Maximum Elevation: 2,750 m / 9,022 ft
• Approximate Trekking Time: 6 to 7 hours
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Day 5: Full-Day Inti Raymi Festival Tour

Join us for a full-day tour to experience the vibrant and sacred Inti Raymi Festival, celebrating the Incan Sun God.
We begin at 8:30 a.m., picking you up from your hotel for a short 10-minute walk to the Qoricancha Temple, where the first part of the celebration unfolds.

The event is divided into three main scenes at different historic locations:

1. Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun) – Av. El Sol, just 3 blocks from the main square
2. Main Square (Plaza de Armas) – the second stage of the ceremony (note: standing-room only)
3. Sacsayhuaman Fortress – final and main stage with bus transportation and reserved seating

For the best experience, we offer a VIP Zone with tiered seating for optimal views of the ceremony. EMUFEC provides essential services including clean mobile restrooms, a first-aid post, and police security to ensure your comfort and safety.

The performance at Sacsayhuaman starts at 1:30 p.m. and concludes around 3:00 p.m. We then return to Cusco and transfer you back to your hotel.

Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the most important Inca festival!

Day 6: Departure

Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel before we provide a smooth and stress-free transfer to the airport.
We hope the unforgettable memories of this journey inspire many more adventures ahead.

✅ Tour Price Includes

The Inti Raymi Adventure Tour price covers all essential services for an exceptional travel experience:

• TRANSPORTATION:
  Includes airport transfers (Airport/Hotel/Airport), private bus for the Sacred Valley and Inti Raymi tours, round-trip shuttle bus between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu, EXPEDITION train tickets round-trip from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, and all hotel transfers.
• ENTRANCE FEES:
  All entrance tickets are covered for the Sacred Valley Tour, the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and the Inti Raymi Festival (Premium Orange Zone seating).
• GUIDE:
  A professional, bilingual, and licensed tour guide throughout the journey.
• ACCOMMODATION:
  Double-occupancy lodging:
  • 3 nights in Cusco*
  • 1 night in Ollantaytambo
  • 1 night in Aguas Calientes
• MEALS:
  Breakfasts at all hotels and trekking meals: 1 box lunch and 1 hot dinner during the Short Inca Trail.
• OTHER SERVICES:
  Local guide assistance throughout the tour for your convenience and support.

❌ Tour Price Does Not Include

Tips:
Gratuities for guides and staff are not included. Recommended tip: US$30 to US$40 total.

Meals:
Lunches and dinners (except those specified). Please budget US$10 to US$30 per meal.

Hot Springs Entrance Fee:
Entry to the hot springs in Aguas Calientes costs US$3.

Huayna Picchu Entrance:
Optional ticket to hike Huayna Picchu Mountain costs US$70.

Welcome to the 6-Day Inti Raymi Adventure Tour!

This unforgettable package includes a day in Cusco, a guided visit to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, a hike along the Short Inca Trail, and a guided tour of the breathtaking archaeological site of Machu Picchu.

Our 6-Day Inti Raymi Adventure Tour is specially designed for travelers who want to explore the most fascinating valley—not only in Peru but in all of the Americas. This region holds deep ceremonial significance, as shown by the magnificent estates, temples, and royal palaces built by the Incas. These monumental sites, stretching from Cusco to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, serve as majestic gathering places at both ends of the valley.

Join us on an adventure that immerses you in the history, beauty, and cultural heritage of this remarkable destination.

🌞 The Festival of the Sun – Inti Raymi

Inti Raymi, the Festival of the Sun, begins at the ancient ruins of Qorikancha, the revered Temple of the Sun. A vibrant procession winds through the streets, filled with lively music, colorful dancing, solemn prayers, scattered flowers, and women sweeping away evil spirits with ritual brooms. The Sapa Inca is accompanied by his female counterpart, Mama Occllo, along with priests and performers dressed as serpents, pumas, and condors.

At the summit plaza, eloquent speeches in Quechua, the language of the Incas, are delivered as the crowd awaits the symbolic sacrifice. Once the high priest completes the traditional rites with the llamas, he raises a heart to Pachamama and interprets the future through the patterns of blood stains. As the sun sets on the horizon, bonfires are lit and the procession makes its way back to Cusco.

In the 16th century, the Spanish conquistadors suppressed Inti Raymi, deeming it a pagan ritual incompatible with Catholic beliefs. However, the festival was revived in 1944, with the modern reenactment based on the writings of Garcilaso de la Vega, “El Inca.”

Embark on an exciting journey to Machu Picchu with our comprehensive packing list. The weather in Cusco and Machu Picchu can be as unpredictable as it is breathtaking—but with our expert tips, you’ll be ready for anything. We’ve categorized the must-have items to ensure a smooth and enjoyable adventure. From rain gear for unexpected showers to sturdy shoes for unforgettable hikes, trust us to keep you fully prepared!

📄 Essential Travel Documents

• Keep your plane tickets (or confirmation) and itinerary handy.
• Don’t forget your valid passport—it’s required for purchasing Machu Picchu tickets and for identification abroad.
• Carry credit/debit cards and keep some local cash in small denominations on hand.

👕 Clothing & Accessories

The weather in Machu Picchu can change quickly—always check the forecast, but prepare for everything from sunshine to rain.

• Bring a medium-sized backpack (note: large backpacks are not allowed inside Machu Picchu).
• Comfortable walking shoes are a must, especially if you plan to explore Machu Picchu’s majestic mountains.
• Pack clothing suitable for both sunny and rainy conditions.

🧭 Basic Essentials

These items are key to making the most of your visit:

• Bring enough water to stay hydrated during hikes that may last at least two hours.
• Insect repellent is a lifesaver.
• Lip balm for protection, along with high-SPF sunscreen.
• Resealable plastic bags to safely store your items.

🔌 Electronics

While you’ll likely carry your phone, be sure to remember:

• A quality camera to capture the stunning scenery.
• Extra batteries and memory cards.
• An AC adapter to charge your devices.

🧼 Personal Hygiene Items

Although many of these can be purchased in Cusco or Aguas Calientes, bringing your own can be more convenient.

Any personal hygiene products you regularly use.

A comb, along with your preferred shampoo, body wash, soap, and towel.

Toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss.

Deodorant, plus any lotions or creams you may need.

🛬 Arriving in Cusco

Step into the vibrant heart of Cusco with our 6-Day Inti Raymi Adventure Tour—a journey that begins and ends in this historic city. Upon arrival, you’ll be immersed in a blend of rich history and lively culture. Cobblestone streets and well-preserved colonial architecture create a picturesque setting, earning Cusco its famous title as the “Navel of the World.” This is where modern life harmoniously coexists with ancient Incan traditions—an experience every traveler should embrace.

If you’re flying in, you’ll land at Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport, conveniently located just outside Cusco’s bustling center. Take time to acclimatize to the city’s high altitude—over 3,300 meters—before diving into your explorations.

For those traveling by road, the journey is just as enchanting. Coming from places like Puno, you’ll witness breathtaking Peruvian landscapes—a canvas of valleys and Andean peaks that inspire awe. Whether by air or land, Cusco offers an unmatched atmosphere for a memorable adventure.

🚐 Transfer Details

Arriving in Cusco is just the beginning of a hassle-free journey with our dedicated SPT Travel & Tours team. Look for our friendly representative holding a sign with the SPT Travel & Tours logo—they’ll escort you straight to your hotel, ensuring a smooth and stress-free arrival.

For your return, we’ll pick you up from your hotel two hours before your flight. The trip to the airport typically takes 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic. At the airport, be sure to check your flight details and pay any applicable departure taxes.

📣 Orientation Session

Upon arrival at your hotel, join us for a detailed briefing on your upcoming adventure. This session will cover your 6-day Inti Raymi tour itinerary, safety protocols, must-see attractions, and insights into local traditions. We strongly encourage attendance to ensure you’re fully prepared for this enriching journey.

Far more than just logistics, this orientation is your gateway to connecting with a vibrant and captivating culture. Don’t miss it—it sets the foundation for the adventure ahead.

Each session lasts just 30 minutes and covers all key information to help your experience run smoothly. It’s also a great chance to ask questions and get ready for an authentic cultural expedition.

🎒 Luggage Storage

During the 6-Day Inti Raymi Adventure Tour, you’ll travel with both a large suitcase and a compact 30-liter daypack. Your daypack will be your constant companion throughout the tour, while your large suitcase will be securely stored at your hotel.

Please note the train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu) has luggage size restrictions, so only take what you need in your daypack. Any additional luggage will be safely stored at your hotel in Cusco. Our team will collect you at the start of the tour and ensure a smooth return to Cusco. Label your bags clearly for easy identification.

🏔️ Dealing with Altitude

Altitude sickness can be a concern when visiting high-altitude destinations like Cusco. Symptoms often resemble the flu—headaches, fatigue, dizziness. If you experience severe symptoms, contact our office for medical assistance.

To minimize symptoms, start slowly with light activities to help your body adjust. Stay hydrated with water or coca tea, which supports oxygen transport and is readily available at your hotel. Avoid alcohol, coffee, tobacco, and sleeping pills to reduce dehydration and oxygen deprivation.

Your healthcare provider may recommend preventive medications like acetazolamide or dexamethasone. These are usually taken two days before arrival and throughout your stay.

🌤️ Weather Conditions

Cusco’s weather, shaped by its location in the Andes, is famously unpredictable. The rugged terrain doesn’t lend itself perfectly to the typical wet and dry seasons. While the dry season runs from April to October, you might still encounter surprise showers in June or sunshine in December. Always carry rain gear, such as a waterproof jacket or poncho.

Due to the region’s varied microclimates, pack layered clothing to easily adapt to changing temperatures throughout the day. Nights are usually cold, so a warm winter jacket is recommended. Visiting Machu Picchu often feels like experiencing all four seasons in one day.

The altitude—above 3,300 meters—also impacts weather and oxygen levels. Visitors may feel effects like shortness of breath or headaches. Spend a few days in Cusco to acclimatize before any strenuous activities.

🛡️ Travel Insurance

For peace of mind during your 6-Day Inti Raymi Adventure Tour, travel insurance is essential. It acts as a safety net against the unexpected. Whether it’s sudden illness or unforeseen incidents, insurance provides financial coverage for cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost luggage.

With this peace of mind, you can fully enjoy your adventure. We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance before departure—a small investment with invaluable benefits. It’s better to have it and not need it than the other way around.

Must-Know Details for the 6-Day Inti Raymi Adventure Tour

Situated at a majestic altitude of 2,400 meters (7,874 feet) above sea level, Machu Picchu offers breathtaking views and an unforgettable cultural experience.

This adventure is designed for travelers of all ages, ready to embark on a journey through history and stunning landscapes.

Experience the dynamic weather of Machu Picchu, where the tropical climate graces your visit with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 23°C (50°F to 73°F), depending on the season—wet or dry.

Pack light, breathable clothing, and be sure to include a cozy jacket for the colder climate you’ll encounter in Cusco.

Enjoy a captivating 2- to 3-hour walking tour through Machu Picchu—a path rich in both history and natural beauty.

Machu Picchu is open daily from 6 AM to 5 PM, inviting you to explore its ancient wonders at your own pace.

For a comprehensive exploration, Circuit 2 is the most complete route, ensuring you see the very best of what Machu Picchu has to offer.

Located approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) from Cusco, the journey to Machu Picchu is safe and scenic by train, with all transportation included in your tour package.

To keep your energy up, bring along snacks or drinks. These are also available for purchase in Aguas Calientes, though prices may be slightly higher than in Cusco.

A rain poncho will be your trusty companion, as rain showers can surprise you at any moment in this enchanting location.

⚠️ Please take note: Selfie sticks, strollers, umbrellas, promotional materials, and any activities that might damage or disrupt the tranquility of Machu Picchu are strictly prohibited.

Take full advantage of this opportunity to explore this mystical site, where every step reveals the rich legacy of the Inca civilization. Booking in advance secures your spot on this limited-capacity hike, offering a one-of-a-kind adventure through some of Peru’s most iconic landscapes.