This program combines the essentials of Cusco into a compact and well-balanced experience. First, you’ll explore the imperial city with a Cusco City Tour, allowing you to understand the Inca legacy and gradually acclimatize to the altitude. Then, the Sacred Valley tour offers expansive landscapes, ancestral architecture, and traditional villages, completing the cultural experience of the destination. It’s a combination designed for those who want to make the most of their time without missing out on history, photography, and the Andean context.
The most intense part comes with the 3-day Salkantay Trek, a dynamic version of the famous Salkantay route to Machu Picchu. In a short time, you’ll traverse high-altitude landscapes, glaciers, and transition to more temperate zones, making this trek an attractive alternative to the classic Inca Trail. The final stop at Machu Picchu doesn’t feel like a mere visit, but rather the natural culmination of a journey that blends culture, physical challenge, and pristine nature.
ITINERARY
Day 1: City Tour Cusco
📅 Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco City Tour
- 🕐 Hotel Pickup
The tour begins with pick-up from your hotel (historic center). The guide will provide a brief introduction to the history of Cusco, the altitude (3,399 m), and basic recommendations to help you enjoy the tour at your leisure.
- 🏛 Visit to Qorikancha
First stop at the ancient Temple of the Sun, one of the most important religious centers of the Inca Empire.
- Here you will be able to:
- Observe the original Inca walls and their architectural precision.
Understand the importance of the sun (Inti) cult. - Learn how colonial construction was integrated on top of Inca foundations.
- 🚌 Transfer to the Archaeological Parks
Departure by tourist transport to the upper part of the city (approx. 20 minutes). During the journey, you will enjoy panoramic views of Cusco.
- 🗿 Sacsayhuamán
One of the most impressive complexes due to its gigantic stone blocks.
- Here, the guide explains:
- Inca construction techniques.
- The ceremonial and strategic use of the site.
- Current events such as Inti Raymi.
- 🔮 Q’enqo
A ceremonial center with underground passages and rock formations. Its possible ritual and symbolic use is interpreted.
- 🏰 Puka Pukara
An ancient military post or checkpoint. Good views of the valley are available from here.
- 💧 Tambomachay
Known as the “Temple of Water.” It stands out for its still-functioning hydraulic channels. The importance of water in the Andean worldview is explained.
DAY 2: Sacred Valley of the Incas (full day) – Pisac, Urubamba and Ollantaytambo
DAY 2: Sacred Valley of the Incas (full day) – Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo
- Departure for the Sacred Valley of the Incas, with an explanation of the landscape, microclimates, and why this area was key to the Inca economy.
- Stop at a panoramic viewpoint to locate the valley and understand its geography before entering the archaeological sites.
- Visit to the Pisac archaeological complex, exploring terraces and main sectors, with a focus on agricultural engineering and urban planning.
- Free time at the Pisac market, ideal for textiles and handicrafts; practical recommendations are provided for leisurely shopping.
- Stop in Urubamba for lunch (depending on the service), prioritizing a light meal to arrive energized for the next site.
- Guided tour of Ollantaytambo, highlighting temples, canals, terraces, and the importance of the town as a “living city” of the valley.
- Return to Cusco. Recommendation: Prepare a trekking backpack and set aside clothing for cold and rain.
Day 3: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lagoon – camp
Day 3: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lagoon – Camp
You’ll depart very early from Cusco towards the starting point of the trek. Along the way, you’ll usually stop in Mollepata for breakfast and final preparations. Once in Soraypampa, the landscape changes: a high Andean valley, crisp air, and towering mountains. Today’s hike takes you to Humantay Lagoon, one of the most sought-after spots on the 3-day Salkantay Trek, renowned for its turquoise waters and the glacier that feeds it.
- Early departure from Cusco + transfer to Mollepata/Soraypampa.
- Hike to Humantay Lagoon (challenging climb, steady pace).
- Time for photos and rest, then return to Soraypampa.
- Dinner and overnight stay at a campsite or lodge (depending on category).
Day 4: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass (Abra) – descent to the jungle
Day 4: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Descent to the Cloud Forest
This is the most challenging day and the one that defines the experience. We ascend to Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the route. The view of the snow-capped peak and the valley below is usually the most breathtaking moment of the trek. Then comes a long descent where the change in ecosystem is noticeable: less cold, more vegetation, and a different atmosphere than in the morning. It’s a day for concentration, a good pace, and short breaks to catch your breath.
- Departure very early to take advantage of the weather.
- Ascent to Salkantay Pass with strategic stops.
- Descent to a temperate zone (transition to high jungle).
- Dinner and overnight stay at a campsite or lodge.
Day 5: Hydroelectric Plant – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – return to Cusco
Day 5: Hydroelectric Plant – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
The final day focuses on your arrival at Machu Picchu. Many tours connect with the Hydroelectric Plant, from where you hike to Aguas Calientes, an easy route through the cloud forest landscape. Very early in the morning, you’ll ascend to Machu Picchu for a guided tour (circuit subject to availability). After the tour, you’ll return to Aguas Calientes and take the train back to Cusco (combined with road transport to the city).
- Transfer to the Hydroelectric Plant (depending on your overnight stay).
- Hike to Aguas Calientes (scenic route).
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu + time for photos.
- Return to Cusco (train + transport, depending on the service).
INCLUDES
✅ INCLUDES
🔹 Services in Cusco (City Tour + Sacred Valley)
- Hotel pick-up in Cusco (city center)
Facilitates the start of your excursions without additional travel.
- Tourist transportation during the Cusco City Tour and Sacred Valley Tour
Authorized and comfortable transportation for all transfers throughout the tour.
- Professional bilingual guide (Spanish/English)
Clear explanations about Inca history, architecture, and Andean culture.
- Guided tour of Qoricancha, Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay
Complete interpretive tour included in the Cusco City Tour.
- Guided tour of Pisac and Ollantaytambo (Sacred Valley of the Incas)
Entrance guided with historical interpretation and cultural context.
🔹 Services on the Salkantay Trek
- Transportation Cusco – Salkantay Trek starting point
Transfer to Soraypampa or the corresponding area depending on the operation.
- Official guide specializing in mountain trekking
Accompanying you throughout the route to Machu Picchu.
- Complete camping equipment
Shared mountain tents, dining tent, and kitchen tent (depending on the trek).
- Cook and support team (muleteer and pack animals)
Responsible for transporting general equipment and preparing meals.
- Full board during the trek
Hot breakfasts, lunches, and dinners from the start of the trek until Aguas Calientes (according to the program).
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu
Interpretive tour of the main sectors.
- Return transport (train + land transfer to Cusco)
Organized return from Aguas Calientes to Cusco.
DOES NOT INCLUDE
❌ DOES NOT INCLUDE
- Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTC)
Required for entry to several sites on the City Tour and Sacred Valley.
- Qoricancha Entrance Fee
Separate entrance fee payable directly at the site.
- Lunch in the Sacred Valley
Payable directly at the chosen restaurant.
- Sleeping Bag for the Trek
Can be rented if the traveler does not have their own.
- Trekking Poles
Optional; can be rented in advance.
- First Breakfast and Last Dinner
Not included outside the trekking program.
- Additional Drinks and Personal Expenses
Includes purchases, extra snacks, or souvenirs.
- Tips for Guide and Support Team
Voluntary, based on satisfaction with the service.
- Machu Picchu Entrance Fee
Official entrance to the historical sanctuary according to the available circuit.
RECOMMENDATIONS
📖RECOMMENDATIONS
- Bring a comfortable daypack (25–35 L) for water, warm clothing, snacks, and documents during the trek.
- Wear layers of clothing: a thermal base layer, a fleece, and a waterproof jacket to adapt to the changing weather on the 5-day Salkantay Trek.
- Include gloves, a hat, and a buff for the cold section of the Salkantay Pass.
- Wear broken-in trekking boots and appropriate socks to prevent blisters.
- Pack a rain poncho or waterproof jacket; the weather on the route to Machu Picchu can change without warning.
- Apply sunscreen and lip balm every day, even if it’s cloudy.
- Wear sunglasses with UV protection, especially in open, high-altitude areas.
- Stay constantly hydrated; drink water frequently during the trek.
- Eat light meals before and during the trek to maintain stable energy levels.
- Bring insect repellent starting on the third day, when the weather becomes more humid in the valley areas.
- Include a headlamp for campsites and early mornings.
- Bring a power bank, as charging stations are not always available along the route.
- Carry cash for small expenses, snacks, or restroom breaks.
- Always have your ID and Machu Picchu entrance ticket handy.
- Go to bed early before starting the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu to perform better.
- On the Cusco and Sacred Valley City Tour, walk at a leisurely pace on the first day to acclimatize properly.
- Pack your backpack the night before visiting Machu Picchu to avoid forgetting anything.
- Always follow the pace recommended by your guide and don’t push yourself too hard at high altitudes.
FAQ´S
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
- How difficult is the 3-day Salkantay Trek?
The 3-day Salkantay Trek is demanding due to the altitude and elevation gain, especially on the day of the Salkantay Pass. You don’t need to be an athlete, but you do need to be in good physical condition and be prepared to hike for several continuous hours.
- Is it necessary to acclimatize before the 3-day Salkantay tour from Cusco?
Yes, it is recommended to spend at least one day in Cusco beforehand. That’s why the Cusco City Tour on the first day is very helpful, as it allows you to gradually adapt before starting the trek.
- Does the 3-day Salkantay tour go to Machu Picchu?
Yes. Most tours connect with Aguas Calientes and culminate with a guided visit to Machu Picchu, making this route a real alternative to the traditional Inca Trail.
- Is Humantay Lagoon included in this package?
Yes, Humantay Lagoon is one of the highlights of the 3-day Salkantay Trek and is usually visited on the first day of the trek from Soraypampa.
- What if I experience altitude sickness during the trek?
Mild symptoms may include headaches or fatigue. Staying hydrated, walking at a steady pace, and avoiding strenuous activity can help. Prior acclimatization significantly reduces discomfort.
- What should I bring for the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu?
Layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, trekking boots with good traction, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a water bottle, and your original Machu Picchu entrance permit.
- What is the best time of year to do the 3-day Salkantay Trek?
The dry season usually offers clearer skies and better-maintained trails. During the rainy season, the landscape is greener, but it’s advisable to bring good waterproof gear.