TOUR DETAILS:

• DURATION: 5 days and 4 nights
• STARTING POINT: Cusco Airport
• FINAL DESTINATION: Cusco Airport
• DEPARTURE DATES: Available in June for both group and private services.
• TOUR TYPE: Adventure, Cultural, and Historical
• TRANSPORTATION: Bus and Train
• LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY: The tour includes narrow paths at archaeological sites like Machu Picchu, requiring sturdy footwear for an optimal experience.
• TRAIN OPTIONS: Expedition option: The most affordable yet comfortable way to reach Machu Picchu.
• ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS: We offer 3-star hotels, but please inform us if you prefer a higher-level accommodation.
• SINGLE ROOM: Solo travelers seeking private rooms during the trip, please indicate your preference when booking online (US$ 25 additional per night).

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Immerse yourself in the profound spirituality and ambiance of this exceptional tour amidst breathtaking natural beauty.
• Explore a land rich in diverse religions and cultures, uncovering deities, rituals, and practices that define its soul.
• Visit Machu Picchu, one of Peru’s most iconic sites, with panoramic views of surrounding mountains and valleys.
• Witness an impressive array of landscapes along the journey, from glaciers to lakes and jungles.
• Personalized guidance from experienced tour guides to enhance your adventure.

ITINERARY (BRIEF):

Day 5: Farewell and Until Next Time! Enjoy a delicious breakfast before being escorted back to Cusco Airport. Until next time, where will your adventurous spirit take you next?

Day 1: Welcome to the Adventure in Cusco! Arrive in Cusco, where our friendly team will be waiting to take you effortlessly to your cozy hotel. Ready for an unforgettable journey?

Day 2: Dive into the Inti Raymi Festival! Experience an entire day immersed in the vibrant energy of Peru’s most celebrated festival, Inti Raymi—an unmissable cultural show.

Day 3: Explore the Enigmatic Sacred Valley! Embark on a thrilling hike through the lush landscapes of the Urubamba Valley, discovering majestic Inca ruins like Pisaq and Ollantaytambo. Feel history under your feet!

Day 4: Conquer the Iconic Machu Picchu! Visit the awe-inspiring Inca citadel of Machu Picchu and uncover its secrets before returning to Cusco with your heart full of memories. Imagine the stunning views from the top!

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco – Panoramic Tour of Peru

Your 5-day Inti Raymi Machu Picchu tour begins in Cusco. Guests have the flexibility to arrive at any time; however, we kindly request that you share your flight details for smooth reception. Upon arrival, our welcoming staff will greet you at the airport and transport you to your designated hotel. For those arriving before noon, we invite you to join an optional city tour from 1:30 PM to 6:30 PM. This immersive experience includes visits to the renowned Cathedral, the historic Qoricancha, and other stunning Inca sites such as Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Tambomachay, and Pucapucara.

Day 2: Full-Day Inti Raymi Festival Tour

Prepare for an unforgettable journey with the Inti Raymi Festival Tour! At 8:30 AM, we will pick you up from your hotel and take a brief walk to the Inca Temple of Qoricancha, where the vibrant Sun Festival (Inti Raymi) begins.

You will experience three distinct scenes in different locations. The first one is at Qoricancha, only three blocks from the Plaza de Armas. Then, we will move to the Plaza de Armas for the second scene. Since there are no seats at these locations, we will stand and enjoy the celebrations.

The grand finale takes place at Sacsayhuaman, just 3 km from Cusco. We will transport you by private bus to this location, where you’ll enjoy a designated seat for the best view of the ceremony. Our VIP Zone provides the prime viewing spot. The ceremony at Sacsayhuaman begins at 1:30 PM and ends at 3:00 PM, after which we’ll return to Cusco and transfer you back to your hotel.

Inti Raymi Ceremony Settings (June 24th)

The Inti Raymi festival comprises three scenes, with optimal seating spots encouraged at Qoricancha and the Plaza de Armas.

1. Qoricancha (Inca Sun Temple): The 9:00 AM opening ceremony lasts 45 minutes.
2. Plaza Mayor (Hauhaypata): This ceremony begins at 11:00 AM, lasting 1 hour. This sacred space, known for its ceremonial platform, was an important site for the Incas.
3. Sacsayhuaman: The grand ceremony starts at 1:30 PM and lasts about 1 hour and 45 minutes. This stunning Inca temple is central to Inti Raymi’s celebrations.

Rituals and Ceremonies of Inti Raymi:

• Initiation ceremony
• Four regions of the Inca Empire: Qollasuyu, Kuntisuyu, Antisuyu, Chinchaysuyu
• Sacred “Chicha” ritual (corn drink prepared by the “Acllas,” the most beautiful young women of the Empire)
• Sacred Fire ritual
• Sacrifice of the llama (Andean camelid) and augury
• Sankhu (sacred bread) ritual
• “Q’ochurikuy” (dances and music from all of Peru)

Day 3: Sacred Valley Tour & Train to Aguas Calientes

Explore the stunning Sacred Valley on a full-day tour that begins at 7:30 AM. This captivating adventure reveals the agricultural, spiritual, and political significance of the Sacred Valley to the Inca Empire. Visit the impressive Inca and pre-Inca sites of Pisac and Ollantaytambo.

• Pisac: Explore its traditional market and stunning Inca ruins.
• Ollantaytambo: Marvel at this ancient fortress, a key strategic location.
• After exploring, enjoy a delightful local lunch in Urubamba before boarding the scenic train for the 2-hour journey to Aguas Calientes.

Day 4: Machu Picchu Full Day Tour

Start the day with a scenic bus ride to Machu Picchu. Our expert guide will lead you on a 2-hour guided tour, followed by free time to explore the site. For an additional cost of US$65, you can hike the iconic Huayna Picchu Mountain (subject to availability).

After discovering the mysteries of Machu Picchu, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch and a relaxing stroll before taking the panoramic train back to Ollantaytambo. Our staff will be there to greet you and transfer you back to your hotel in Cusco.

Day 5: Departure

After a hearty breakfast at your hotel, we’ll arrange a smooth and efficient transfer to Cusco Airport, ensuring the perfect end to your unforgettable journey.

Included in the Package:

• Hassle-Free Transportation: Enjoy seamless transfers with private transport to and from the airport (airport/hotel/airport), exclusive transport to explore the “Inti Raymi” Festival and “Sacred Valley,” and a comfortable ride between “Aguas Calientes” and the majestic Machu Picchu. Round-trip scenic train travel from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes is also included, ensuring smooth and relaxing travel.
• Full Access: Immerse yourself in rich cultural experiences with entry fees to the vibrant Inti Raymi Festival in the Orange Zone, a captivating tour of the Sacred Valley, and an unforgettable visit to the iconic Machu Picchu, giving you complete access to these historical wonders of Peru.
• Expert Guidance: Rely on our certified, bilingual expert guides (English and Spanish) to enrich your journey with captivating information and stories about each site.
• Comfortable Accommodation: Enjoy 3-star accommodations, with three nights in historic Cusco and one night in the vibrant town of Aguas Calientes. Each stay is based on double occupancy, offering comfort and relaxation.
• Continuous Support: Benefit from the support of a local guide who will be available to ensure your trip is pleasant and stress-free.

Not Included in the Package:

• Meals: Meals are not included and are left to your discretion. We recommend budgeting US$10 to US$25 per day to enjoy the delightful culinary offerings of Peru.
• Other Costs: Please note that airport taxes and tips are not included in the package and should be planned separately.

This adventure is designed for both culture enthusiasts and thrill-seekers. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to discover the rich mysteries of Peru’s precious lands. Reserve your spot now!

Travel Documents & Essentials:

• Flight confirmations and a detailed itinerary.
• Passport (for buying entry tickets and international travel).
• Credit/Debit cards and a wallet with small bills.

Clothing & Equipment Needs:

To fully enjoy your adventure, these practical items are essential:

• Plenty of water to stay hydrated during long walks.
• Insect repellent to keep pesky bugs away.
• Lip balm for protection from the sun and wind.
• High SPF sunscreen to shield your skin from the intense Andean sun.
• Waterproof bags to securely store your belongings.

Tech & Gadgets:

While we won’t remind you to bring your phone, here’s what else you should pack:

• A reliable camera to capture breathtaking views.
• Spare batteries to keep your equipment running.
• Extra memory cards for all your photos.
• A travel adapter to keep everything charged.

Personal Hygiene Must-Haves:

Although you can find most items locally, bringing your own adds comfort:

• Hairbrush or comb.
• Personal hygiene items of your choice: shampoo, shower gel, soap, towel.
• Dental essentials (toothbrush, toothpaste, floss).
• Deodorant.
• Lotions to soothe your skin after long days of exploration.

Medications:

• While many basic items are easy to find in Peru, some prescription medications may not be available.
• Bring all necessary medications and consult your healthcare provider if you have a chronic condition.

Packing wisely ensures a smooth and enjoyable adventure through Peru’s incredible history and breathtaking landscapes!

Welcome to Cusco

Imagine stepping into the vibrant city of Cusco, a place where history blends with modernity and Incan culture thrives. From cobbled streets to the elegant colonial architecture, Cusco is a testament to the past and the pride of an empire that once ruled the Andes. Known as the “navel of the world”, Cusco is the perfect starting point for your journey and invites you to embark on a unique adventure. Are you feeling inspired by this magical place?

Arriving by plane?
Your first encounter with this Andean gem will be at Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport, located just outside the city at over 3,300 meters above sea level. A tip: take your time to acclimatize before fully diving into the city.

Prefer to arrive by land?
The journey from Puno promises stunning Andean landscapes that will open your heart to the natural beauty of the region.

Stress-Free Transfers for Your Comfort

Upon arrival in Cusco for the 5-day tour, our team at SPT Travel & Tours will be waiting to greet you. Our friendly representative will be ready at the arrivals terminal, holding a sign with the SPT logo, and will take you directly to your hotel. Forget about stress: the return transfer to the airport on your last day is also covered. Let us handle the logistics so you can focus on enjoying your adventure!

Privileged Information and Helpful Orientation

Once you settle in your hotel, you’ll attend a 30-minute information session that will guide you through everything you need to know about the tour: from the itinerary to safety protocols, fascinating sites, and even local customs. This session prepares you for a truly enriching experience with no surprises. Your adventure begins here!

Smart Packing Solutions for the Intrepid Traveler

You’ll need a compact 30L backpack for daily hikes, while your large suitcase will remain securely stored at the hotel. This is crucial because trains to Aguas Calientes only allow hand luggage. Any extra luggage can be safely stored in Cusco, and it’s recommended to label it for easy identification.

Mastering the Altitude

Cusco is located at over 3,300 meters above sea level, so altitude sickness can be common. Don’t worry: just breathe easy and stay hydrated with water or coca tea (available at your accommodation). Avoid drinks like coffee and alcohol, as they can dehydrate you. If needed, medications like acetazolamide (consulted with a doctor beforehand) can help prevent altitude symptoms and ensure a comfortable experience.

Prepare for the Unpredictable Andean Weather

Cusco’s weather can change abruptly. A sunny day can quickly transform into heavy rain. Be sure to pack waterproof clothing and warm layers, like jackets, ponchos, and gloves. The key is to wear layers, which will allow you to adjust to fluctuating temperatures throughout the day. In Machu Picchu, for example, you can experience three seasons in a single day.

Ready yourself for an unforgettable adventure, prepared with everything you need, and dive into the magic of Inti Raymi and Machu Picchu!

Altitude of Machu Picchu:
Machu Picchu is located at an altitude of 2,400 meters above sea level.

Tour Accessibility:
The tour is suitable for people of all ages, making it an inclusive experience for all kinds of travelers.

Weather:
The climate in Machu Picchu varies depending on the season (rainy or dry). It has a tropical climate with temperatures ranging between 10°C and 23°C. Make sure to be prepared for both sun and rain.

Clothing Recommendations:
Light and comfortable clothing is ideal, with a warm jacket to help you adjust to Cusco’s cooler weather upon arrival.

Machu Picchu Circuit:
The Machu Picchu circuit is explored on foot and takes approximately 2 to 3 hours to complete.

Opening Hours:
Machu Picchu is open every day of the year from 6:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Recommended Tours:
There are various tours available for Machu Picchu, and Circuit 2 is the most comprehensive and recommended for a more immersive experience.

Transportation to Machu Picchu:
Located about 100 kilometers from Cusco, the fastest and safest way to reach Machu Picchu is by train. The tour package includes all the necessary transportation for this journey.

Snacks and Drinks:
It’s suggested to carry snacks or drinks with you during the tour. However, these can also be purchased in Aguas Calientes, though prices tend to be higher than in Cusco.

Rain Protection:
It’s highly recommended to carry a rain poncho, as unexpected showers can occur in Machu Picchu.

Prohibited Items in Machu Picchu:

Selfie sticks

Strollers

Umbrellas

Advertising materials

Any activity that could cause noise or damage to the structures.

Prepare yourself for an amazing journey, while keeping these important points in mind for a smooth and memorable experience!