Cusco Highlights Tour – 7 Days / 6 Nights

Region: Cusco, Peru
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best Season: April – October

The Cusco Highlights Tour is a perfectly balanced 7-day journey through the heart of the Andes — blending ancient Inca heritage, vibrant local culture, and some of Peru’s most stunning landscapes.
From the cobblestone streets of Cusco to the Sacred Valley, from shimmering high-altitude lakes to the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu, this itinerary offers an unforgettable Andean adventure — ideal for travelers who want to experience the best of Cusco without rushing.

With Inkaland Treks, you’ll travel in small groups, guided by certified professionals who ensure comfort, cultural depth, and authentic local connection every step of the way.

Quick Facts Cusco Highlights Tour

Location: Cusco Region, Peruvian Andes
Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights
Max Elevation: ~5,100 m / 16,732 ft
Difficulty: Easy → Moderate (combines cultural travel + light hiking)
Best Season: April – October (dry season)
Start / End: Cusco → various destinations → Cusco
Group Size: Small groups or private tours

👉 Perfect for travelers seeking a comprehensive introduction to the Andes — culture, nature, and adventure in one program.

📩 Ready to experience the best of Cusco?

Join Inkaland Treks for a complete Andean journey — from ancient temples to glacier lakes and rainbow mountains.

Small groups, expert guides, and premium service for a safe and unforgettable experience.

Reserve your 2026 Tour

Highlights Cusco

Guided exploration of Cusco City — Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), Cathedral & Sacsayhuamán.
Discover the Sacred Valley: Chinchero, Moray, Maras Salt Mines & Ollantaytambo Fortress.
Panoramic train journey to Machu Picchu and guided tour of the Inca citadel.
Hike to the turquoise Humantay Lake, nestled below Salkantay Mountain.
Conquer the famous Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) for incredible views of the Andes.

Itinerary at a Glance

Day	Route	Max Elevation	Approx. Time	Highlights
1	Arrival in Cusco – City Tour	3,400 m / 11,155 ft	Half Day	Acclimatization & cultural introduction
2	Sacred Valley: Chinchero – Moray – Maras – Ollantaytambo	3,350 m	Full Day	Andean villages & Inca sites
3	Train to Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco	2,430 m	Full Day	Explore the Inca citadel
4	Cusco – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake	4,200 m	Full Day	Alpine lake hike
5	Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Return to Cusco	4,630 m	Full Day	High-mountain views
6	Cusco – Rainbow Mountain – Cusco	5,100 m	Full Day	Colorful mountain hike
7	Free Morning – Transfer Out	–	Half Day	End of tour

Day 1 – Arrival in Cusco & City Tour

Meet your guide at the airport or bus terminal and transfer to your hotel. Afternoon tour of the Imperial City including the Cathedral, Qorikancha, Sacsayhuamán, Q’enqo, and Tambomachay — a perfect start to your acclimatization.

Day 2 – Sacred Valley of the Incas

Depart toward the Sacred Valley. Visit Chinchero and its textile workshops, Moray’s circular terraces, and the Maras Salt Mines. After lunch in Urubamba, continue to Ollantaytambo before returning to Cusco.

Day 3 – Machu Picchu Full Day

Early morning train ride through the Vilcanota Valley to Aguas Calientes. Guided visit of Machu Picchu at sunrise — discover its temples, terraces and Inca history. Return by train and transfer to Cusco.

Day 4 – Humantay Lake Adventure

Early departure to Soraypampa. Start the ascent toward Humantay Lake (4,200 m) — a turquoise gem beneath snowy Salkantay. Return to Cusco in the evening.

Day 5 – Salkantay Pass Trek

Hike to the spectacular Salkantay Pass (4,630 m) for 360° views of glaciers and Andean valleys. Return to Cusco for a free evening.

Day 6 – Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)

Leave before sunrise for the Rainbow Mountain trailhead. After a 3-hour hike, reach the summit (5,100 m) and admire the multicolored layers of minerals that paint the Andes. Return to Cusco by evening.

Day 7 – Farewell Cusco

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Cusco for shopping or exploring on your own. Transfer to the airport or bus terminal for your next destination.

FAQ

Good to Know

How fit do I need to be?
Most days are light to moderate. Some hikes reach high altitude (> 4,000 m), so good fitness and two acclimatization days are recommended.
Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes — perfect for families and mixed-age groups. Optional shorter walks are available.
Can the order of activities change?
Yes, the itinerary can be adjusted based on train schedules or weather conditions.

What to bring

Comfortable walking shoes / light hiking boots
Warm layers + waterproof jacket (Andean weather varies quickly)
Sun hat, gloves & sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Refillable water bottle (2 L min.)
Day pack (20–30 L)
Camera or phone for photos
Personal medication & snacks

INCLUSION

✅ Included

Professional bilingual guide (English / Spanish)
All ground transportation per itinerary
6 nights accommodation (hotel + camp if applicable)
All entrance fees (Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, Rainbow Mountain, etc.)
Train tickets to Machu Picchu (round trip)
Meals as specified (B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner)
First aid kit and oxygen supply
24/7 support from Inkaland Treks team

❌ Not Included

Flights or buses to/from Cusco
Meals not specified in itinerary
Travel / cancellation insurance (mandatory)
Tips for guides and drivers
Personal expenses (souvenirs, extra drinks)

Tours