Cusco: Sacred Valley-Machu Picchu-Ica-Paracas 9Days-8Nights

This 9-day, 8-night tour through Peru’s cultural and natural wonders promises an immersive experience for the adventurous traveler. From the historic Inca capital of Cusco to the iconic Machu Picchu, and the coastal regions of Ica and Paracas, this comprehensive itinerary offers guided tours, hikes, and visits to archaeological sites, showcasing the country’s diverse landscapes and rich heritage. With airport pickup, transportation, and select meals included, this tour provides a seamless journey, allowing participants to fully embrace the extraordinary sights and sounds that make Peru such a captivating destination. What awaits those who embark on this remarkable expedition may just surprise even the most seasoned globetrotter.

Key Points

• A 9-day, 8-night tour exploring the top attractions in Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Ica, and Paracas.
• Highlights include guided tours of Cusco, Machu Picchu, Humantay Lake, Rainbow Mountain, and the Sacred Valley.
• Includes airport pickup, transportation, guided tours, and select meals.
• Offers a range of activities from city tours to hikes, with the option to reserve and pay closer to the travel dates.
• Excludes services not mentioned in the program, extra expenses, and travel insurance.

Overview

This 9-day, 8-night tour offers travelers the opportunity to explore Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Ica, and Paracas, providing a comprehensive glimpse into the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of Peru.

Priced from £749.19 per person, the tour’s highlights include discovering the Qoricancha temple, learning about Cusco’s history, and admiring the iconic Machu Picchu.

The itinerary covers a range of activities, such as city tours, hikes, and visits to natural and cultural sites, ensuring a well-rounded experience.

With airport pickup, guided tours, transportation, and select meals included, this tour simplifies the logistics of exploring Peru’s top destinations, making it an attractive option for those seeking a hassle-free adventure.

Itinerary

The 9-day, 8-night itinerary starts with an airport pickup on Day 1, allowing travelers to begin their journey seamlessly upon arrival.

On Day 2, they’ll explore the historic city of Cusco, visiting Qoricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay.

The next day, they’ll take a train to Machu Picchu Pueblo and enjoy a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu.

Days 4 and 5 feature hikes to Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain, respectively.

The itinerary continues with a tour of the Sacred Valley on Day 6 and the South Valley on Day 7.

Inclusions

The package includes an airport pickup on Day 1, allowing travelers to begin their journey seamlessly upon arrival.

It also covers the city tour of Cusco on Day 2, exploring key attractions such as Qoricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay.

On Day 3, the Machu Picchu tour is included, comprising the train to Machu Picchu Pueblo, a guided tour of the iconic site, and the return to Cusco.

Other inclusions are the Humantay Lake hike, Rainbow Mountain tour, Super Sacred Valley tour, South Valley tour, and the Ballestas Islands and Huacachina tour in Ica.

Meals during the Humantay Lake, Rainbow Mountain, and Super Sacred Valley tours are also provided.

Exclusions

While the package includes a comprehensive itinerary, it doesn’t cover services not mentioned in the program.

Plus, any extra expenses incurred by travelers, as well as travel insurance, are excluded from the package. This means that any costs for activities, meals, or transportation outside of the scheduled tours and transfers are the responsibility of the traveler.

Similarly, the package doesn’t include travel insurance, which is highly recommended to protect against unforeseen circumstances during the trip.

Travelers are advised to carefully review the inclusions and exclusions to ensure the package aligns with their needs and budget. By understanding what’s and isn’t covered, travelers can better prepare for a seamless and enjoyable journey.

Booking and Payment

To book this 9-day, 8-night Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Ica, and Paracas tour, travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later.

The package offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for those planning their journey.

The booking process is straightforward:

1. Select your desired travel dates and the number of travelers.
2. Provide your contact information and review the itinerary.
3. Confirm your reservation without any upfront payment.
4. Pay the full amount closer to your travel dates, ensuring you can plan your trip with ease.

This hassle-free approach allows travelers to secure their spot in advance and finalize the payment when it’s most convenient for them.

Cusco City Tour

On Day 2, travelers embark on a comprehensive Cusco city tour, exploring the historical and architectural wonders that define this ancient Inca capital. They begin their journey at Qoricancha, the renowned ‘Temple of the Sun,’ marveling at its intricate stonework and the harmonious blend of Inca and Spanish colonial influences. The tour then proceeds to the impressive Sacsayhuaman fortress, Qenqo’s enigmatic rock formations, the Puka Pukara military complex, and the serene Tambomachay site, providing a captivating glimpse into Cusco’s rich cultural heritage. Throughout the day, travelers enjoy the city’s vibrant energy, gaining a deeper understanding of its pivotal role in Inca civilization.

Attraction	Significance
Qoricancha	The ‘Temple of the Sun’, a testament to Inca architectural prowess
Sacsayhuaman	An impressive Inca fortress overlooking Cusco
Qenqo	A site featuring intricate rock carvings and underground chambers
Puka Pukara	A former Inca military complex guarding the eastern approach to Cusco
Tambomachay	A serene site believed to have been used for ritual bathing and relaxation

Machu Picchu Experience

The centerpiece of this immersive journey is a guided tour of the legendary Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Travelers embark on an unforgettable train ride to the charming town of Machu Picchu Pueblo, where they board a shuttle bus that whisks them up to the iconic Inca citadel perched high in the Andes.

Here, they’ll:

1. Wander through the elaborate stone structures and terraces, imagining the daily life of the Inca.
2. Admire the stunning vistas of the Urubamba River and Machu Picchu Mountain.
3. Learn about the site’s fascinating history and construction from a knowledgeable local guide.
4. Capture breathtaking photos to immortalize their experience at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Humantay Lake Hike

After marveling at the wonders of Machu Picchu, travelers embark on a breathtaking hike to the emerald waters of Humantay Lake, nestled high in the Andes.

The trek takes them through lush alpine meadows, past towering glaciers, and along winding paths that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountain peaks.

Along the way, they’ll learn about the lake’s sacred significance to the local Andean people and the importance of preserving its fragile ecosystem.

Upon reaching the shore, they’ll be rewarded with the sight of the crystal-clear turquoise waters reflecting the majestic Apu, or mountain spirit, that watches over the lake.

This challenging yet rewarding experience leaves trekkers with a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Peruvian Andes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Temperature in Cusco During the Tour?

The average temperature in Cusco during the tour is typically cool, ranging from around 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F). Daytime temperatures are generally mild, while nights can be chilly, especially at higher elevations.

Is There a Minimum or Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour does not specify a minimum or maximum group size. Group sizes can vary, allowing for a more personalized experience. Travelers should confirm the group size details when booking the tour.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Fit My Preferences?

Yes, customers can typically customize the itinerary to fit their preferences. Many tour operators offer flexible, customizable packages that allow travelers to adjust the activities, duration, or focus of the trip to meet their individual needs and interests.

Do I Need to Obtain a Visa to Participate in This Tour?

Whether a visa is required depends on the traveler’s nationality. Most nationalities do not need a visa to visit Peru for less than 90 days. However, it’s best to check visa requirements with the Peruvian embassy or consulate prior to travel.

Is It Possible to Extend the Tour Duration at an Additional Cost?

Yes, it’s possible to extend the tour duration at an additional cost. The tour operator typically offers flexible options to customize the itinerary and duration based on the traveler’s preferences and budget.

Recap

This comprehensive tour offers an immersive exploration of Peru’s cultural and natural wonders.

Travelers will discover the historic Inca capital of Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and the iconic Machu Picchu, before venturing to the coastal regions of Ica and Paracas.

With guided tours, hikes, and visits to archaeological and cultural sites, this itinerary provides an unforgettable journey through Peru’s diverse landscapes and rich heritage.