Chasing Rainbows and Ancient Ruins: Sourav’s Peru Trip

Our team will pick you up from your hotel in the morning or afternoon to begin your half-day tour of the city of Cusco. Known as the archaeological capital of the Americas, Cusco is the oldest city in the Western Hemisphere and was once the heart of the Incan Empire during the 14th and 15th centuries. Today, the city showcases a unique blend of ancient pre-Inca and Inca architecture with Spanish colonial influences, offering a fascinating journey through history. On this tour, we will visit some of the city’s most remarkable sites, where you’ll have the chance to appreciate its extraordinary cultural heritage.

Our first stop will be the Cusco Cathedral, the city’s main temple, located on the Plaza de Armas. Here, you’ll admire its impressive architecture and view several masterpieces from the Cusco School of art. Next, we’ll head to Qoricancha, the Temple of the Sun, once the most important Inca temple, dedicated to the sun god Inti. On top of this sacred site, the Santo Domingo Convent was built, yet much of the original Inca stonework remains intact. We’ll then visit Sacsayhuaman, the ceremonial fortress with megalithic stone walls, offering a panoramic view of the city of Cusco. Our next stops will be Q’enqo, a mysterious site with underground passageways, Puca Pucara, a fortress showcasing Inca military architecture, and finally, Tambomachay, a stunning site featuring aqueducts, canals, and waterfalls, highlighting the Inca’s mastery of water manipulation. After exploring these incredible sites, we’ll return to your hotel, where you’ll have the rest of the day free to relax or explore.

Our day begins with a journey through the Sacred Valley, once the heart of the Incan Empire. This fertile region has served as an important agricultural center for thousands of years, with its ruins stretching from Pisac to Ollantaytambo before reaching Chinchero.

Our first stop is Pisac, an important Inca site known for its extensive agricultural terraces and strategic location as the southern gateway to the valley. After exploring the ruins, we’ll visit the town’s artisan market before continuing to Ollantaytambo, an Inca fortress that guarded the northern entrance of the valley. As we climb its terraces and walk through its narrow streets, we’ll gain insight into its military, religious, and agricultural significance.

Finally, we head to Chinchero, a traditional Andean village home to the Royal Hacienda Ruins of Tupac Inca Yupanqui. Here, we’ll see a well-preserved Inca wall in the main square and visit the colonial church built atop Inca foundations. After taking in the beauty and history of Chinchero, we return to Cusco.

Today is a perfect opportunity to unwind and explore the charming town of Aguas Calientes at your own pace. Nestled in the lush cloud forest at the base of Machu Picchu, this small yet lively village offers a mix of natural beauty, local culture, and relaxing spots to enjoy. You can start your morning with a leisurely breakfast, then stroll through the local artisan market, where you’ll find a variety of handmade textiles, souvenirs, and regional specialties. For a bit of culture, visit the small but fascinating Machu Picchu Museum (Manuel Chávez Ballón) or the nearby botanical garden, both just a short walk from town.

If relaxation is what you’re after, consider visiting the town’s namesake hot springs—Baños Termales—where you can soak in warm, mineral-rich waters surrounded by lush greenery. For those looking to stretch their legs, a short hike to the Putucusi Mountain or the Mandor Gardens offers beautiful trails with waterfalls, native flora, and birdwatching opportunities. Enjoy lunch or dinner at one of the many restaurants featuring traditional Peruvian and international cuisine. Whether you’re winding down after a big trek or preparing for your visit to Machu Picchu, a free day in Aguas Calientes offers the perfect blend of rest, nature, and discovery.

Your journey to Machu Picchu begins with a pickup from your hotel, followed by a transfer to the train station for a scenic ride to Aguas Calientes. The train journey offers spectacular views of the lush mountains and valleys, setting the stage for your adventure ahead. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, you’ll meet your guide, who will take you to the entrance of the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. Perched high in the Andes, this ancient citadel reveals the Inca civilization’s architectural and engineering marvels. As you explore its temples, plazas, and terraces, you’ll be struck by the sophisticated construction techniques that have allowed it to endure centuries of earthquakes and extreme weather conditions, all while offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

After your guided tour through the iconic site, you’ll have some free time to enjoy Aguas Calientes, where you can relax, have lunch, shop for souvenirs, or even visit the town’s famous hot springs (optional, not included). Later in the afternoon, you’ll board your return train, and after arriving at the station, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel where you’ll have the rest of the evening to relax and reflect on today’s once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Explore the breathtaking multi-colored Vinicunca Mountain on this classic day hike from Cusco. Located at 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) above sea level, this stunning natural wonder and the nearby Red Valley showcase some of the most impressive landscapes in the Peruvian Andes. We will depart early from Cusco, heading south toward the Cusipata District, where we’ll make a brief stop for any last-minute supplies. As we continue our journey, we’ll pass through picturesque Andean villages, spotting llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas grazing against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks. After reaching the village of Chirihuani, we will enjoy a hearty Andean breakfast prepared by our chef.

From here, we continue to the trailhead and begin our ascent toward Vinicunca. The 1.5-hour hike takes us through an ever-changing landscape of mineral-rich mountains and glacial streams, gradually revealing the vibrant colors of Rainbow Mountain. At the summit, we’ll have time to soak in the panoramic views and capture unforgettable photos. After enjoying this spectacular sight, we begin our descent back to the trailhead, where our transport will be waiting to take us to a nearby town for a delicious buffet lunch. Recharged and refreshed, we return to Cusco in the late afternoon, bringing home lasting memories of this high-altitude adventure.

Enjoy a free day in the vibrant city of Cusco, where you can immerse yourself in its rich history, captivating culture, and stunning architecture. Stroll through the cobblestone streets of the city’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore the impressive Plaza de Armas, lined with colonial buildings and the magnificent Cusco Cathedral. Visit the Qorikancha, the Temple of the Sun, once the most important Inca temple, and marvel at the fusion of Inca and colonial architecture.

For a more relaxed day, wander through the San Pedro Market, where you can sample fresh local produce, traditional Peruvian snacks, and handmade crafts. If you’re in the mood for art and history, visit the Museo de Arte Precolombino or the Museo Inka to discover Cusco’s fascinating past. Alternatively, take a leisurely walk up to the nearby Sacsayhuamán ruins for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. Whether you prefer exploring the city’s historic sites, shopping for unique souvenirs, or simply enjoying the local atmosphere, a free day in Cusco offers a wealth of experiences to enjoy at your own pace.

As your adventure in Peru comes to a close, we’ll ensure your departure is smooth and stress-free. One of our representatives will meet you at your hotel at the designated time and escort you to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport. Once there, you’ll have ample time to check in for your flight and prepare for your journey home or onward.

We hope that your time in Cusco has been filled with unforgettable experiences. As you bid farewell to the Inca imperial capital, we wish you safe travels and look forward to welcoming you back for another adventure in the future.