From Cusco: Inti Raymi and Machu Picchu 5 Days-4 Nights

Set out on a captivating 5-day, 4-night adventure from Cusco that immerses you in the vibrant Inti Raymi Sun Festival celebration and unveils the iconic Machu Picchu site. This tour offers a seamless blend of cultural exploration and natural wonder, as you explore Cusco’s renowned Inca ruins, traverse the captivating Sacred Valley, and journey by train to the charming town of Aguas Calientes. With airport pickup, hotel accommodations, guided visits, and a seamless transition back to Cusco, this cultural experience promises to leave you with memories that will linger long after your journey.

Key Points

• This 5-day, 4-night tour from Cusco offers the opportunity to experience the Inti Raymi (Sun Festival) celebration and explore the iconic Machu Picchu site.
• The tour includes airport pick-up, hotel stay, and guided visits to Cusco’s top attractions, such as Qoricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay.
• The Sacred Valley Adventure allows visitors to explore the Pisaq ruins, Urubamba town, and the Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo, before taking a train to the charming town of Aguas Calientes.
• The tour culminates with a guided exploration of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
• The tour includes a seamless return to Cusco, with an opportunity to witness the vibrant Inti Raymi ceremony at Qoricancha temple and Sacsayhuaman archaeological site.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This 5-day, 4-night tour from Cusco offers visitors the opportunity to experience the vibrant Inti Raymi (Sun Festival) celebration and explore the iconic Machu Picchu site.

The tour includes airport pick-up, hotel stay, and guided visits to Cusco’s top attractions like Qoricancha, Sacsayhuaman, and Ollantaytambo.

Travelers will take the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and then bus up to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of the ancient Inca citadel.

The tour culminates with attendance at the Inti Raymi ceremony, a centuries-old festival honoring the sun god.

Priced from $1,096.55 per person, the tour provides a comprehensive introduction to Peru’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes.

Cusco City Exploration

On the first day, the tour begins with a captivating city exploration of Cusco, visiting the renowned sites of Qoricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay.

Qoricancha, also known as the ‘Temple of the Sun,’ was once the most important Inca site in Cusco.

Sacsayhuaman is an impressive Inca fortress with massive stone walls and zigzagging staircases.

Qenqo is a religious site carved into a massive rock, while Puka Pukara and Tambomachay were once military and administrative outposts.

These sites offer a glimpse into Cusco’s rich history and the engineering prowess of the Inca Empire.

Sacred Valley Adventure

The next day, the tour continues with an exploration of the Sacred Valley, where travelers visit the captivating Pisaq ruins, the bustling town of Urubamba, and the impressive Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo.

From Ollantaytambo, they’ll board a train bound for the charming town of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to the iconic Machu Picchu.

Along the way, they’ll marvel at the stunning Andean landscapes, enjoy the rich cultural heritage, and gain a deeper understanding of the Inca Empire’s impressive engineering and architectural feats.

This day promises to be a highlight of the tour, providing a unique opportunity to uncover the mysteries of the Sacred Valley before the grand finale at Machu Picchu.

Train to Aguas Calientes

After exploring the impressive Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo, travelers will board a train that whisks them away to the charming town of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to the iconic Machu Picchu.

The train journey is an experience in itself, offering breathtaking views of the Andean landscape. The ride takes approximately 1.5 hours, and passengers can sit back and enjoy the scenic vistas.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, travelers will have the opportunity to:

• Explore the town’s lively markets and shops.
• Relax in the town’s natural hot springs.
• Dine on delicious Peruvian cuisine.
• Prepare for their early morning visit to Machu Picchu.

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Machu Picchu Discovery

Travelers will rise early and make their way to the bus station in Aguas Calientes, eager to embark on their much-anticipated visit to the legendary Machu Picchu.

After a scenic 25-minute bus ride, they’ll arrive at the entrance to this ancient Inca citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site perched high in the Andes.

Guests will explore the iconic stone structures, terraced gardens, and sweeping vistas that have made Machu Picchu one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

They’ll learn about the site’s history and significance from their expert guide, gaining a deeper appreciation for this extraordinary archaeological marvel.

With ample time to wander and take in the breathtaking scenery, travelers will leave Machu Picchu with memories that will last a lifetime.

Return to Cusco

From Aguas Calientes, travelers take the train back to Ollantaytambo, where a private transfer awaits to bring them to their hotel in Cusco.

After an immersive day at Machu Picchu, this journey allows guests to reflect on their experiences.

The return to Cusco offers several key benefits:

1. Opportunity to rest and recharge before the Inti Raymi festival the following day.
2. Time to explore Cusco’s historic city center, which was the capital of the Inca Empire.
3. Visit to Qoricancha, the ‘Temple of the Sun,’ a significant Inca religious site.
4. Chance to prepare for the vibrant Inti Raymi ceremony, a highlight of the tour.

This transition back to Cusco seamlessly connects the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu with the cultural richness of the Inti Raymi festival.

Inti Raymi Celebration

The Inti Raymi celebration, a vibrant and centuries-old Inca ritual honoring the sun god, takes center stage on the penultimate day of the tour.

Visitors will witness the spectacular ceremony at the Qoricancha temple and the Sacsayhuaman archaeological site. The event features colorful costumes, traditional music and dance, and a reenactment of the Inca’s offering to the sun.

Participants will be immersed in the ancient traditions and grandeur of the Inti Raymi, which was banned during Spanish colonial rule but revived in the 20th century.

This unique cultural experience is a highlight of the tour, providing a glimpse into the rich heritage and beliefs of the Inca civilization.

Airport Transfer

Upon arrival, the tour operator will pick up participants from the airport and transfer them directly to their hotel in Cusco. This seamless transfer ensures a hassle-free start to the tour.

The process involves:

1. Meeting the representative holding a sign with the participant’s name upon exiting the airport.
2. Assisting with any luggage and escorting the participant to the waiting private vehicle.
3. Providing a comfortable and direct drive to the hotel, allowing participants to rest and refresh before the adventure begins.
4. Checking in at the hotel, where the tour leader will provide an overview of the upcoming itinerary and answer any questions.

This airport transfer service sets the stage for a memorable Inti Raymi and Machu Picchu experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Upgrade the Train Tickets to a Higher Class?

Yes, travelers can upgrade their train tickets to a higher class for an additional fee. This allows them to enjoy more comfortable seating and amenities on the journey to and from Machu Picchu.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour’s maximum group size is not specified in the overview. However, many Cusco tours have a limit of 8-15 participants to provide a more personalized experience. The exact group size may depend on availability and traveler demand.

Can I Add Extra Activities or Excursions to the Itinerary?

Yes, travelers can add extra activities or excursions to the standard itinerary. The tour operator likely offers optional add-ons such as hiking, cooking classes, or visits to additional sites. Customization is possible to suit individual interests and preferences.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

Yes, there are discounts available for children and seniors on this tour. Children under 12 receive a 20% discount, and adults over 65 receive a 15% discount. These discounts must be requested at the time of booking.

Can I Extend My Stay in Cusco Before or After the Tour?

Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Cusco before or after the tour. The tour operator offers the flexibility to add additional nights in Cusco, allowing visitors to explore the city further at their leisure.

Recap

This immersive 5-day tour offers an unparalleled cultural experience.

Participants will witness the vibrant Inti Raymi Sun Festival, explore Cusco’s Inca ruins, traverse the captivating Sacred Valley, and discover the UNESCO World Heritage site of Machu Picchu.

With seamless logistics, including airport pickup and hotel accommodations, this tour provides an unforgettable adventure into the heart of Peru’s rich heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: