Cuzco: Capital of the Inca Empire (6 Days / 5 Nights)

Cuzco, the former capital of the mighty Inca Empire, beckons travelers to uncover its rich history and architectural splendor. This 6-day, 5-night tour offers an all-inclusive package, providing private transportation, guided tours, and comfortable accommodations. Explore iconic sites like Machu Picchu, Sacsayhuaman, and Qorikancha, while enjoying the cultural significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site. With daily breakfasts and select lunches included, you’ll have the opportunity to savor the flavors of Peruvian cuisine and learn about the engineering marvels and traditions of the Inca civilization. Prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking views and unravel the captivating narratives that shaped this remarkable destination.

About Your Stay

• Explore the former Inca capital of Cuzco over a 6-day, 5-night tour, featuring private transportation, official guides, and 3-star hotel accommodations.
• Visit iconic Inca ruins like Sacsayhuaman, Qorikancha, and Plaza de Armas, gaining insights into the rich history and architecture of Cuzco.
• Enjoy a highlight of the tour – a visit to the renowned Machu Picchu, with a tourist train ticket and site entrance included.
• Be aware of potential issues with subcontracting and limited English explanations, as noted in a 2-star review.
• Consider early booking for Machu Picchu and evaluating other tour companies to maximize the Cuzco adventure.

Tour Overview

The tour offers a 6-day, 5-night exploration of Cuzco, the capital of the Inca Empire.

It includes private transportation, an official tour guide, and 3-star hotel accommodations in Cuzco for 5 nights. Guests will enjoy breakfast at the hotels, lunch on 3 days, and all tickets for the planned activities.

The tour also provides a tourist train ticket to Aguas Calientes and entrances to the renowned Machu Picchu site.

Pickup is from the accommodation just before the 1:00 PM start time, and the transportation and surfaces are wheelchair accessible, with infant seats available.

Included and Excluded

This tour includes private transportation, an official tour guide, and breakfast at the hotels for 5 nights.

Lunch is provided 3 times during the trip, and the tour also includes a tourist train ticket to Aguas Calientes and entrances to Machu Picchu.

Plus, the Tourist Ticket for Archaeological complexes is covered. However, the cost of food not mentioned in the itinerary and tips are excluded.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, and infant seats are available, though infants must sit on laps.

A moderate physical fitness level is required for this 6-day, 5-night tour of the Inca capital of Cuzco.

Pickup and Accessibility

Pickup for the tour starts from your accommodation just before the 1:00 PM tour departure. The transportation provided is wheelchair accessible, and infant seats are available, though infants must sit on laps. A moderate physical fitness level is required to fully participate in the tour activities.

Pickup	Start Time	Accessibility
From accommodation	1:00 PM	Wheelchair accessible transportation and surfaces, Infant seats available

The tour is designed to be accessible to a wide range of participants, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all.

Review and Feedback

One reviewer, Neil_F, provided feedback on their experience with the tour in May 2024.

They described the experience as disjointed, with subcontracting leading to different groups daily and a hotel change during the stay without explanation.

The reviewer also noted poor planning, with late returns and early next-day pickups.

Plus, they found the bilingual tours primarily in Spanish, with limited English explanations.

Neil_F suggests booking individual tours for better organization and cost savings.

The overall rating for this tour is 2.0 out of 5, based on a single review.

Travelers may want to consider alternative tour options or make adjustments to the itinerary for a more seamless and informative experience.

Visiting Machu Picchu

Visiting Machu Picchu is the highlight of this tour. The tour includes a tourist train ticket to Aguas Calientes and entrances to the iconic Inca citadel.

Guests will have the opportunity to explore the well-preserved ruins and learn about the historical significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tour guide will provide insight into the engineering feats and cultural traditions of the Inca Empire.

Visitors should come prepared with comfortable shoes, sun protection, and snacks, as the site can get crowded. With the convenience of included transportation and tickets, guests can fully enjoy the awe-inspiring experience of Machu Picchu.

Exploring Cusco Ruins

After exploring the iconic Machu Picchu, the tour turns its attention to uncovering the rich history and architectural wonders of Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire.

Visitors can expect to discover:

1. The Sacsayhuaman, a massive stone fortress with impressive zig-zag walls and sweeping views of Cusco.
2. The Qorikancha, an ancient Inca temple, once covered in gold, now home to the Santo Domingo Convent.
3. The Plaza de Armas, the main square, featuring the iconic Cathedral of Cusco and the Inca Roca Palace.

These Inca ruins and colonial structures offer a glimpse into the incredible legacy of this captivating city.

Planning Your Trip

When planning your trip to Cuzco, the capital of the Inca Empire, it’s essential to consider a few key factors.

The tour overview provides a comprehensive 6-day, 5-night itinerary, including private transportation, an official tour guide, and 3-star hotel accommodations. Meals and entrance tickets are covered, making it a convenient all-inclusive package.

However, the lone review suggests potential issues with subcontracting and limited English explanations. To ensure a smoother experience, it’s recommended to book Machu Picchu early and consider staying overnight in Ollantaytambo.

Evaluating other tour companies may also lead to better organization and cost savings. Overall, careful planning can help maximize your Cuzco adventure.

Questions About Your Stay

What Are the Best Viewing Spots for Sunrise and Sunset in Cusco?

The best sunrise views in Cusco can be found atop the Saksaywaman ruins, while Qorikancha and Plaza de Armas offer excellent sunset vistas. Visitors should arrive early to secure the best spots and enjoy the city’s stunning natural landscapes.

Can We Extend the Tour to Include Additional Inca Sites in the Sacred Valley?

Yes, the tour can be extended to include additional Inca sites in the Sacred Valley. This would allow visitors to explore more of the region’s rich history and cultural heritage during their stay.

Is It Possible to Arrange a Private Cooking Class During the Tour?

The tour provider can likely arrange a private cooking class during the tour. This would need to be requested in advance and may incur an additional cost, but it could provide a unique cultural experience.

What Are the Peak and Off-Peak Seasons for Visiting Cusco and Machu Picchu?

The peak season for visiting Cusco and Machu Picchu is during the dry months from May to September. Off-peak season is from October to April, with potentially fewer crowds but higher chances of rain.

Can We Make Any Modifications to the Standard Itinerary to Accommodate Personal Interests?

Yes, the itinerary can be customized to accommodate personal interests. Travelers can request additional activities, adjust the duration, or explore alternative destinations within the Cusco region to suit their preferences and travel style.

Final Verdict On This Stay

Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of Cuzco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, on a comprehensive 6-day, 5-night tour. This all-inclusive package features private transportation, guided tours, and comfortable accommodations, allowing you to explore iconic sites like Machu Picchu, Sacsayhuaman, and Qorikancha. Enjoy the cultural significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site while enjoying breathtaking views and learning about Inca engineering and traditions.