Cusco + Machu Picchu + Puno: 6 Days

Upon arrival at Cusco Airport, our team will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in the historic center. The rest of the day is reserved for rest and gradual acclimatization to the altitude.

If you feel comfortable, you may take a gentle walk through the charming San Blas neighborhood, known for its narrow streets, artisan workshops, and views over the city. Later, you will receive a welcome briefing with information about the itinerary, transportation, and upcoming activities.

After breakfast, begin a guided exploration of Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire and one of Peru’s most important cultural destinations.

Visit Qorikancha, the Temple of the Sun, where impressive Inca stonework stands beneath colonial architecture. Continue to the Cusco Cathedral and the historic Plaza de Armas, learning about the city’s transformation from an Inca capital into a colonial center.

The tour also includes a visit to San Pedro Market, where local vendors sell fruits, vegetables, traditional foods, textiles, and regional products. The afternoon is free for independent exploration, shopping, or relaxation.

In the evening, you may enjoy dinner at one of Cusco’s recommended local restaurants.

Travel into the Sacred Valley of the Incas for a full day of archaeology, culture, and spectacular Andean scenery.

Begin in Chinchero, where you will learn about traditional Andean weaving techniques and natural textile dyes. Continue to Moray, an extraordinary archaeological site featuring circular agricultural terraces believed to have been used for crop experimentation.

Next, visit the impressive Maras Salt Mines, where thousands of salt pools descend along the mountainside. Local families have worked these terraces for generations using naturally saline water.

Your final major stop is Ollantaytambo, one of the best preserved Inca towns in Peru. Explore its archaeological complex, massive stone terraces, temples, and impressive mountain setting.

In the late afternoon or evening, board the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and prepare for the following morning’s visit.

Begin the day with an early breakfast before taking the shuttle bus to the entrance of Machu Picchu.

Enter the sanctuary according to your reserved entrance time and assigned circuit. During an approximately 2-hour guided tour, discover the history, architecture, terraces, ceremonial areas, and viewpoints included within your designated route.

Your guide will explain the engineering skills, religious beliefs, and daily life of the Inca civilization while you explore one of the world’s most celebrated archaeological sites.

Travelers with separate tickets may also hike Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain. These routes require advance reservations and are subject to availability.

After the visit, return by bus to Aguas Calientes and enjoy free time for lunch. In the afternoon, board the train back toward Ollantaytambo, followed by a transfer to Cusco.

Depart Cusco in the morning for a scenic overland journey toward Puno, located on the shores of Lake Titicaca.

The route crosses the southern Andes and includes several cultural and archaeological stops. Depending on the selected tourist bus service, highlights may include Andahuaylillas, Raqchi, La Raya Pass, and the archaeological museum or complex at Pucará.

Along the way, enjoy views of high altitude plains, traditional villages, snow capped mountains, and grazing alpacas and llamas.

Arrive in Puno in the late afternoon and transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free to relax or take a gentle walk along the Lake Titicaca waterfront.

After breakfast, transfer to the port and board a boat for a full day excursion across Lake Titicaca.

Your first stop is the Uros Floating Islands, a group of remarkable man made islands constructed from totora reeds. During the visit, learn how local families traditionally use the reeds to build islands, houses, boats, and everyday objects.

Continue across the lake to Taquile Island, known for its strong community traditions, agricultural terraces, and distinctive textile culture. Local weaving practices have received international recognition for their cultural importance.

Enjoy panoramic views of Lake Titicaca and learn about daily life on the island before returning by boat to Puno in the afternoon.

At the end of the tour, transfer to your hotel, bus terminal, or airport connection according to your onward travel arrangements.

Yes, this is our standard package but we build private itineraries for every traveler. Contact us on WhatsApp and we'll design your perfect Peru trip.

Yes. Cusco (3,400 m) and Puno (3,860 m) are high. We recommend arriving at least one extra day early, staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol the first night, and consulting your doctor about altitude medication.

May to October is generally drier and more comfortable. The itinerary works year round but the rainy season (Dec, March) can affect some roads.