TOUR DETAILS

• Tour Duration: 5 days / 4 nights
• Starting Point: Cusco Airport
• Ending Point: Cusco Airport
• Departure Dates: Available in June for both group and private services
• Tour Type: Adventure, Cultural & Historical
• Transportation: Bus and Train
• Difficulty Level: Includes navigating narrow trails at archaeological sites like Machu Picchu — sturdy footwear is recommended for optimal comfort
• Train Options:
  • Expedition: The most affordable and comfortable option for traveling to Machu Picchu
• Accommodation Options:
  • Comfortable 3-star hotels included
  • Please inform us if you prefer a higher category hotel
• Single Room Supplement:
  • Solo travelers who prefer a private room throughout the trip may request this option during the online booking process (additional US$ 25 per night)

HIGHLIGHTS

• Immerse yourself in the deep spirituality and sacred atmosphere of this exceptional journey, set amid stunning natural beauty
• Explore a land rich in diverse religions and cultures, discovering unique deities, rituals, and traditions
• Visit Machu Picchu, one of Peru’s most iconic sites, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys
• Witness a stunning variety of landscapes throughout your trip — from glaciers to lakes and lush cloud forests
• Benefit from the personalized guidance of experienced tour guides committed to enhancing your adventure

BRIEF ITINERARY

Day 1: Welcome to the Adventure in Cusco!
Upon arrival in Cusco, our friendly team will greet you at the airport and transfer you seamlessly to your cozy hotel. Ready for an unforgettable journey?

Day 2: Dive into the Inti Raymi Festival!
Get ready for an immersive, full-day experience at Peru’s most iconic celebration — the vibrant Inti Raymi Festival, a unique cultural spectacle in honor of the Inca Sun God.

Day 3: Explore the Enigmatic Sacred Valley!
Hike through the lush landscapes of the Urubamba Valley and discover the majestic Inca ruins of Pisac and Ollantaytambo. Feel the history beneath your feet!

Day 4: Conquer the Iconic Machu Picchu!
Experience the awe-inspiring Inca citadel of Machu Picchu and uncover its ancient secrets before returning to Cusco with your heart full of memories. Can you imagine the extraordinary views from the top?

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

Day 1 – Arrival in Cusco: Panoramic Welcome Tour in Peru

Your Inti Raymi & Machu Picchu tour begins in the historic city of Cusco. Travelers are welcome to arrive at any time, but we kindly ask that you provide your flight details to ensure a smooth airport pickup. Upon arrival, our attentive staff will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel.

If you arrive early (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 revered Cathedral of Cusco
• The Qoricancha Temple (Temple of the Sun)
• Inca archaeological sites: Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Tambomachay, and Pucapucara

Day 2 – Full-Day Inti Raymi Festival Tour

Get ready for an unforgettable day! Starting at 8:30 AM, we’ll pick you up from your hotel for a short walk to Qoricancha, the Temple of the Sun, where the grand Inti Raymi Festival begins.

You’ll witness three different ceremonial scenes held at distinct historical locations:

1. Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun) – Opening ceremony at 9:00 AM (duration: 45 minutes)
2. Main Square (Haukaypata) – Festivities at 11:00 AM (duration: 1 hour); no seating available, so be prepared to stand.
3. Sacsayhuamán – The main ceremony starts at 1:30 PM (duration: 1 hour and 45 minutes). We’ll transport you in a private bus and provide reserved VIP seating for the best views.

At Sacsayhuamán, enjoy a front-row seat to the Inti Raymi spectacle, complete with mobile restrooms, first aid posts, and police security, all organized by EMUFEC for your comfort and safety. After the ceremony, we’ll return to your hotel in Cusco.

Key Rituals and Highlights of Inti Raymi:

• Ceremonial Opening
• Reports from the Four Regions of the Inca Empire: Qollasuyu, Kuntisuyu, Antisuyu, Chinchaysuyu
• Ritual of Sacred Chicha (corn beer made by the Acllas or «Chosen Women»)
• Sacred Fire Ceremony
• Llama sacrifice and reading of omens
• Sacred Bread (Sankhu) Offering
• Traditional dances and music from across Peru (Q’ochurikuy)

Day 3 – Sacred Valley Tour & Train to Aguas Calientes

Start your day at 7:30 AM as we pick you up from your hotel for a full-day tour through the Sacred Valley, a region of agricultural, spiritual, and political importance for the Inca civilization.

You’ll explore:

• The Pisac ruins and visit the lively Pisac market
• A stop in Urubamba for a delicious local lunch
• The remarkable Ollantaytambo fortress, a stunning example of Inca engineering

In the late afternoon, board the tourist train for a scenic two-hour ride through the Urubamba Valley to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu.

Day 4 – Full-Day Machu Picchu Tour

Start early with a bus ride up to Machu Picchu, where your expert guide will lead a 2-hour tour of the ancient citadel at dawn, allowing you to experience the site in its most magical light.

After the guided tour, enjoy free time to explore on your own. For an extra US$ 65, you may opt to hike Huayna Picchu Mountain (subject to availability), which offers panoramic views of the citadel and surrounding landscapes.

Later, return by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch and a relaxed walk around town. In the afternoon, take the train back to Ollantaytambo, where our staff will meet you and transfer you back to your hotel in Cusco.

Day 5 – Departure from Cusco

After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we will ensure your timely and smooth transfer to Cusco Airport. This marks the end of your unforgettable journey through Peru’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.

INTI RAYMI & MACHU PICCHU ADVENTURE PACKAGE DETAILS

Embark on an unforgettable journey with this all-inclusive tour package:

✅ What’s Included:

• Hassle-Free Transportation:
  Enjoy smooth airport transfers (airport/hotel/airport), exclusive private buses for exploring the Inti Raymi Festival and the Sacred Valley, a comfortable shuttle between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu, and round-trip panoramic tourist-class train tickets between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes. All hotel transfers are included for a seamless travel experience.
• Full Access to Attractions:
  Immerse yourself in rich cultural experiences with all entrance fees covered for:
  • The vibrant Inti Raymi Festival (Orange Zone seating)
  • The awe-inspiring Sacred Valley Tour
  • The iconic Machu Picchu site
    Dive deep into Peru’s historic marvels without the hassle of separate bookings.
• Expert Guidance:
  Benefit from our certified bilingual tour guides (English & Spanish), who will enhance your journey with captivating insights and storytelling at every destination.
• Comfortable Accommodation:
  Stay in cozy 3-star hotels, with three nights in historic Cusco and one night in lively Aguas Calientes. Accommodations are based on double occupancy, adding comfort and warmth to your adventure.
• Ongoing Support:
  A dedicated local guide will accompany you throughout, ensuring a smooth, enjoyable, and stress-free experience.

❌ What’s Not Included:

• Meals:
  Meals are not included to allow you the freedom to explore Peru’s diverse culinary scene. Expect to spend approximately US$10 to US$25 per meal.
• Other Costs:
  Please note that airport taxes and gratuities are not included and should be budgeted separately.

This tour is crafted for both cultural enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
Reserve your spot now and don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience the mystical heritage of Peru!

Essential Travel Documents

• Flight confirmations and your detailed itinerary.
• Passport (required for ticket purchases and international travel).
• Credit/debit cards and a wallet with small bills for expenses.

Clothing and Gear Needs

The weather during your expedition can vary as much as the landscape itself. Checking the forecast helps you pack smartly.

• Medium-sized backpack (note: large backpacks are not recommended).
• Sturdy hiking boots to tackle scenic trails comfortably.
• Lightweight clothing for sunny days.
• Waterproof outerwear for unexpected rain or clouds.

Crucial Accessories

For a fully enjoyable adventure, these practical items are indispensable.

• Plenty of water to stay hydrated during long hikes.
• Insect repellent to keep bugs at bay.
• Lip balm to protect against sun and wind.
• High-SPF sunscreen to shield your skin.
• Waterproof bags to keep your belongings safe and dry.

Technology & Gadgets

We won’t remind you about your phone, but here are other important items to bring.

• Reliable camera to capture breathtaking views.
• Spare batteries to keep devices powered.
• Extra memory cards for all your photos.
• Travel adapter to keep your electronics charged.

Personal Hygiene Essentials

Although you can find most items locally, bringing your own adds convenience.

• Hairbrush or comb.
• Preferred toiletries: shampoo, shower gel, soap, towel.
• Oral hygiene items.
• Deodorant.
• Skin-soothing lotions for after a day of exploring.

Medication Notice

While many basics are available in Peru, some prescriptions may be hard to find. Bring necessary medications and consult your doctor if you have chronic health conditions.

Discover the Magic of the Inti Raymi Machu Picchu 5-Day Tour

Welcome to Cusco

Imagine arriving in Cusco — a vibrant city alive with a thrilling blend of history and culture. Picture yourself strolling its cobblestone streets, surrounded by elegant colonial architecture that whispers tales from centuries past. Known as the “Navel of the World,” Cusco offers a fascinating fusion of modern life and echoes of the Inca civilization. Isn’t this an adventure that will captivate you?

If you’re flying in, the Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport will be your gateway. Located just outside the city, this is where many travelers first feel the powerful pull of Cusco’s high altitude — over 3,300 meters (10,800 feet) above sea level. Here’s a tip: pause, breathe deeply, and let yourself acclimate to the vibrant atmosphere before diving into your explorations.

Prefer a scenic overland route? The journey from Puno is a masterpiece of Andean landscapes viewed through your window — a full immersion in the region’s breathtaking natural wonders. Whether by plane or car, Cusco sets the perfect stage for the incredible adventure ahead.

Seamless Transfers to Enhance Your Journey

Upon your arrival in Cusco for the Inti Raymi Machu Picchu 5-Day Tour, our passionate team from SPT Travel & Tours will welcome you warmly. Look for our friendly representative holding an SPT-branded sign in the arrivals terminal. They will guide you smoothly and stress-free to your hotel.

Forget travel worries: on departure day, we’ll pick you up from your hotel well in advance to ensure a comfortable transfer to the airport. Trust us to handle the logistics while you focus on the adventure.

Your Insider Briefing Awaits

Once settled at your hotel, get ready for a detailed briefing session unveiling the excitement and wonders of the Inti Raymi Machu Picchu tour. Why is this session so important? It provides essential information about the itinerary, safety protocols, fascinating sites, and local customs — all delivered in an engaging 30-minute overview. This briefing ensures you are fully prepared to immerse yourself in a culturally enriching journey.

Take this time to satisfy your curiosity, ask questions, and set the stage for the inspiring adventure ahead.

Smart Luggage Solutions for the Intrepid Traveler

Prepare to juggle a large suitcase and a compact backpack (around 30L) during your adventure. Your backpack will be your constant companion, while your larger suitcase stays safely at the hotel. Why worry about your luggage when we’ve got you covered?

Remember, trains to Aguas Calientes (the gateway to Machu Picchu) require manageable-sized bags. Carry any extra luggage with peace of mind — we will store it securely in Cusco. Don’t forget to tag your bags for easy identification.

Navigating High Altitude with Ease

Visiting high-altitude locations like Cusco can cause altitude sickness, but breathe easy. The thinner oxygen at these elevations can trigger symptoms similar to a hangover for some. However, your adventure should never be out of reach. How to overcome this? Take it slow, stay hydrated with water or coca tea (available at your accommodations), and avoid dehydrating drinks such as alcohol or coffee.

Rest assured, our team is here to assist if you need help. Let altitude add to your excitement, not hold you back.

Medications like acetazolamide may offer additional protection, typically started two days before exposure to high altitude, ensuring an uninterrupted and enjoyable experience.

Embrace the Unpredictable Weather

Cusco’s weather is as dynamic as the adventures it promises. Nestled in the Andes, the climate can shift suddenly from bright sunshine to heavy rain. Ready for nature’s show? Pack waterproof clothing — jackets, ponchos, and warm gloves — and you’ll be prepared for all weather surprises.

The Andes call for versatile clothing; dress in layers to stay comfortable through ever-changing temperatures. A fascinating day at Machu Picchu can pass through three seasons in just half a day! So, rain or shine, say yes to the wonders these highlands hold.

Machu Picchu is located at an altitude of 2,400 meters (7,874 feet) above sea level.

The tour is suitable for travelers of all ages.

The climate in Machu Picchu varies by season (wet or dry), with tropical weather and temperatures ranging between 10°C and 23°C (50°F to 73°F).

It is recommended to bring lightweight, comfortable clothing along with a warm jacket for your arrival in Cusco.

The Machu Picchu walking tour takes approximately 2 to 3 hours and is done entirely on foot.

Machu Picchu is open every day of the year, from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Several tour routes are available at Machu Picchu, with Circuit 2 being the most comprehensive and highly recommended.

Located about 100 kilometers (62 miles) from Cusco, the fastest and safest way to reach Machu Picchu is by train. The tour package includes all necessary transportation.

It’s advisable to bring snacks or drinks for the tour; however, these can also be purchased in the town of Aguas Calientes, though prices there tend to be higher than in Cusco.

Bringing a rain poncho is recommended, as unexpected rain showers can occur in Machu Picchu.

The use of selfie sticks, strollers, umbrellas, promotional materials, and any activities that cause noise or damage to the ruins are strictly prohibited inside Machu Picchu.