Are you planning your ideal trip to Cusco and want to know what the most popular tours are? There are amazing options, from one-day tours to immersive experiences lasting almost a week—everything will depend on the type of adventure you want to have. Discover the main tours in the Cusco region and live unforgettable experiences with archaeological, historical, and natural attractions.

• 1. Full Day Machu Picchu Tour
• 2. Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour
• 3. City Tour Cusco
• 4. South Valley Cusco Tour
• 5. Maras, Moray, and Salt Mines Tour
• 6. 7 Color Mountain Tour
• 7. Inca Trail
• 8. Choquequirao Tour
• 9. Salkantay Trek Tour
• 10. Inca Jungle
• Frequently Asked Questions about Tours in Cusco

Plaza de Armas in Cusco, the starting point for most tours

1) Full Day Machu Picchu Tour

• The Full Day Machu Picchu tour (1 day) is the quickest and easiest way to explore the Inca City.
• This adventure starts at around 4:00 AM in Cusco and ends around 9:00 PM with a return to the city after visiting the World Wonder.
• The experience includes entrance to Machu Picchu, a tour guide, and all necessary transportation services (minivan, train, and bus). If you want more adventure, you can also book access to Huayna Picchu Mountain.
• The tour can be a bit strenuous, so it is recommended for young visitors or people in good physical condition. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, we recommend the 2-day tour, which includes a night in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu village).
  • Tour duration: 1 day (approximately 16 hours).
  • Approximate tour price: 310 USD – 325 USD (depending on required services).
  • Includes: Transport, train ticket, bus ticket, entrance to Machu Picchu, professional guide, lunch (optional).
  • Additional details: Discounts may be available for CAN members, students, or minors.

2) Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour

• The Sacred Valley of the Incas is one of the most amazing destinations in Cusco. Here, you can visit iconic villages, dreamlike landscapes, and some of the most important archaeological sites.
• This area has optimal conditions for agriculture, which is why it has been appreciated since Inca times. The proof is in the structures found here: terraces, citadels, temples, and more.
• The 1-day Sacred Valley tour starts in the city of Cusco and then takes you through the villages and archaeological sites of Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero.
• The tour includes entrance to all archaeological sites, tourist transport service, a professional guide, and a buffet lunch in the town of Urubamba.
• There is also a tour called Sacred Valley VIP, which adds a visit to the Maras Salt Mines and the circular terraces of Moray. It lasts the same amount of time, but the travel times are shortened.
  • Tour duration: 12 hours (starts at 7:00 AM and ends at 6:00 PM).
  • Approximate tour price: 68 USD – 75 USD
  • Includes: Cusco Tourist Ticket (entrance to all archaeological sites), transport, professional guide, and lunch in Urubamba.
  • Additional details: You can book the VIP tour and include a visit to Maras and Moray in your itinerary.

Sacred Valley of the Incas in Cusco

3) City Tour Cusco

• The best way to explore Cusco’s main attractions is with the City Tour, a half-day experience where you will visit the most important archaeological and historical sites.
• Cusco is considered the ‘Archaeological Capital of America.’ In 1983, it was declared a ‘World Heritage Site’ by UNESCO due to the historical legacy found on every street in the Historic Center.
• The City Tour covers the main tourist destinations of the city, including: the Cathedral, Qoricancha, and the archaeological sites of Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Tambomachay, and Puca Pucara.
• Thanks to the short duration of the tour, you can book it at either of the two available times: First session from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, second session from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
• It is the best option to acclimate to the city and enjoy a relaxed tour amidst incredible landscapes and historically significant places.
  • Tour duration: 5 hours.
  • Approximate tour price: 62 USD – 70 USD
  • Includes: Partial Cusco Tourist Ticket (Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, Tambomachay, Coricancha), transport, and professional guide.
  • Additional details: You can also book a private tour, allowing you to explore each destination at your own pace, adding or removing stops.

The Cusco Tourist Ticket
If you want to explore the main attractions of the city on your own, you will need to purchase the Cusco tourist ticket in one of its four options. Circuit one includes entrance to the archaeological sites of Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay. Circuit two includes entrance to the Tipón archaeological park, the Pikillacta archaeological site, the Qosqo Native Art Center, the Pachacútec monument, the Regional Historical Museum, the Qoricancha Site Museum, the Contemporary Art Museum, and the Popular Art Museum. Circuit three includes entrance to the archaeological sites of Ollantaytambo, Pisac, Chinchero, and Moray. Finally, the full ticket includes all three circuits.

4) South Valley Cusco Tour

• Visiting the South Valley is embarking on a journey through one of the most beautiful places in Cusco, yet less known compared to other tourist destinations. You will experience a more peaceful adventure amid Andean landscapes with mountains, lagoons, snow-capped peaks, valleys, and agricultural fields.
• The South Valley Cusco tour covers the archaeological site of Tipón, the Pikillacta archaeological center, and the colonial temple of Andahuaylillas (also known as “The Sistine Chapel of America”).
• The experience lasts only half a day, so you’ll have time for additional plans in the afternoon. It starts in Cusco at around 8:30 AM and ends with a return at 2:30 PM.
• By visiting the Tipón archaeological site, a masterpiece of Inca hydraulics, Pikillacta, one of the best-preserved pre-Inca archaeological complexes in Peru, and Andahuaylillas, you will discover the architectural and artistic treasure that is the Sistine Chapel of America.
  • Tour duration: 6 hours.
  • Approximate tour price: 52 USD – 60 USD
  • Includes: Entrance tickets (Tipón, Pikillacta, and Andahuaylillas temple), transport, and professional guide.
  • Additional details: The South Valley is one of the most scenic areas in Cusco, so by exploring it, you’ll gain a greater understanding of the region’s geographic diversity.

Pikillacta, included in the South Valley Tour – Cusco

5) Maras and Moray Tour

• The circular terraces of Moray and the Maras salt mines are two of the most iconic archaeological attractions in the Sacred Valley.
• The Maras Salt Mines consist of over three thousand salt ponds. Their origin dates back thousands of years, and today they continue to be a source of the popular pink salt. Additionally, as you visit, you’ll enjoy landscapes that are truly unique in the world.
• The circular terraces of Moray are an Inca archaeological site that served as an agricultural laboratory, with each terrace level having its own climate.
• The Maras and Moray tour is a half-day experience. It starts in Cusco at around 8:30 AM and ends at 2:30 PM.
• There is also an adventure tour by quad bike through Maras and Moray, perfect for those seeking adrenaline while exploring historical destinations surrounded by dreamlike landscapes.
  • Tour duration: 6 hours.
  • Approximate tour price: 64 USD – 70 USD.
  • Includes: Transport, professional guide, and entrance tickets to Maras and Moray.
  • Additional details: The Maras and Moray destinations are also part of the Sacred Valley VIP tour, with several options available to explore them.

6) 7 Color Mountain Tour

• The 7 Color Mountain (also called Vinicunca) is the second most popular tourist destination in Cusco, just behind Machu Picchu.
• Vinicunca is located approximately 5,200 meters above sea level, making the tour an altitude adventure.
• The characteristic pigmentation and colors of the mountain’s surface are due to minerals that formed there thousands of years ago.
• The 7 Color Mountain tour experience starts with a drive to Phulawasipata, followed by a final hike (horses can also be reserved to help with this part of the journey).
• The Vinicunca tour lasts one day (starts at 4:00 AM and ends around 6:00 PM). It’s a full-day experience where you will also enjoy various landscapes and the diverse Andean flora of the region.
  • Tour duration: 14 hours.
  • Approximate tour price: 43 USD – 50 USD.
  • Includes: Full transport, breakfast, lunch, entrance to Vinicunca, and professional guide.
  • Additional details: It’s highly recommended to acclimate a couple of days in Cusco before doing the tour to avoid complications.

Tourist at 7 Color Mountain

7) Inca Trail

• The Inca Trail is considered one of the best hikes in the world and the best way to reach and explore the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
• The Inca Trail adventure involves a 4-day, 3-night hike covering approximately 39 kilometers. Along the way, you’ll appreciate exclusive archaeological sites, as well as historic paths through high-altitude and subtropical terrains.
• Traversing this trail is only possible with an authorized tour agency since the route is protected by the Ministry of Culture (to preserve the trails and provide a better experience for visitors).
• The Inca Trail tour is the most requested of all, so reservations must be made online with a minimum of 4 to 5 months in advance.
• Each tour includes everything needed to undertake this adventure without concerns. Remember that camping is required, and you will sleep under the starry skies.
  • Tour duration: 4 days.
  • Approximate tour price: 795 USD – 825 USD.
  • Includes: Tourist pickup, transport from Cusco, hiking permits, professional guide, camping gear, cooks, porters, entrance to Machu Picchu, and return to the city by train and bus.
  • Additional details: There is also a shorter 2-day version of the Inca Trail, ideal if you have limited time.

8) Choquequirao Tour

• Choquequirao is one of the most impressive archaeological sites of the Inca culture. It closely resembles Machu Picchu, and is therefore also known as its ‘sacred sister’.
• Reaching Choquequirao involves a tough adventure. First, you need to drive to the town of Cachora (163 kilometers from Cusco), then begin the 31-kilometer hike (62 kilometers round trip) to the archaeological site.
• During the 4-day hiking adventure, you will camp in well-equipped campsites. Enjoying the landscapes and starry nights is an incomparable attraction.
• There are 3-day and 4-day tours to visit Choquequirao, although there is also an 8-day tour that connects Choquequirao with Machu Picchu.
• This hike can also be done independently, but you will need camping gear, a guide, and sufficient food to make this route an unforgettable experience.
  • Tour duration: 4 days.
  • Approximate tour price: 690 USD – 710 USD.
  • Includes: Full transport, professional guide, muleteer, entrance to Choquequirao, food, camping gear.
  • Additional details: The hike to Choquequirao is one of the most challenging routes, so we recommend being in good physical condition and properly prepared for it.

View of Choquequirao in Cusco

9) Salkantay Tour

• The Salkantay trek is named after the trails near Mount Salkantay, the second highest mountain in Cusco (6,271 meters above sea level).
• The Salkantay tour route lasts 5 days and 4 nights, covering Andean and subtropical terrains to reach Machu Picchu via the town of Aguas Calientes. The route passes through the ‘Abra Salkantay’ (4,650 meters above sea level), the highest point of the hike.
• Nights are spent at well-equipped campsites, except for the last night, where you will stay in a hotel in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu village).
• The total hiking distance is 70 kilometers. Along the way, you will also visit the famous Humantay Lake, popular for its turquoise color and its proximity to snow-capped peaks, creating a truly unique and beautiful landscape.
  • Tour duration: 5 days.
  • Approximate tour price: 469 USD – 500 USD.
  • Includes: Full transport, professional guide, muleteer, entrance to Machu Picchu, food, and camping gear.
  • Additional details: The Salkantay trek can be booked just a few weeks in advance, making it ideal for last-minute plans.

10) Inca Jungle Tour

• The Inca Jungle is a popular adventure tour to Machu Picchu. The tour combines various adrenaline sports, adding more value to the experience of discovering the world wonder.
• The sports included in the Inca Jungle tour are: cycling, hiking (35 kilometers), canoeing (optional), and zip lining (optional).
• Nights are spent in hotels. The main attractions of the route are the Andean and tropical landscapes, and on the third day of the tour, you will visit the Cocalmayo hot springs in the town of Santa Teresa.
• The tour is available for people of all ages, but it is recommended to have good physical condition to fully enjoy each sporting experience along the way.
  • Tour duration: 4 days.
  • Approximate tour price: 461 USD – 492 USD.
  • Includes: Full transport, safety equipment, accommodation, food, tour guide, entrance to Machu Picchu, train ride, bus ride, and cycling, canoeing, and zip line equipment.
  • Additional details: The best time to do the Inca Jungle tour is during the dry season (from April to October), as the weather is ideal for enjoying the landscapes and there is less chance of rain.

Frequently Asked Questions about Tours in Cusco

• 1) What is the ideal tour in Cusco if I have limited time?

  If you have only a few days in Cusco, we recommend the Full Day Machu Picchu Tour, as it allows you to visit the world wonder in just one day. It’s the fastest and most organized option to make the most of your time without missing the main attraction.

• 2) What is the best tour for acclimatization upon arriving in Cusco?

  The City Tour Cusco is the best option to acclimate during your first days of travel. It’s a short, half-day tour visiting the top tourist destinations in the city. It combines history, archaeology, and landscapes, helping your body adapt better to the altitude.

• 3) Which tour allows me to visit the most archaeological sites in a single day?

  The Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour is perfect if you’re looking to visit a variety of destinations. You will visit Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero, as well as enjoy dreamlike landscapes and a buffet lunch in Urubamba. You can also book the VIP Sacred Valley experience, which includes a visit to the Maras salt mines and the circular terraces of Moray.

• 4) What is the least crowded and most peaceful tour in Cusco?

  The South Valley Cusco tour is ideal if you want to avoid crowds and have a peaceful experience. It’s a cultural and scenic journey visiting the archaeological sites of Tipón and Pikillacta, as well as the famous Sistine Chapel of America in Andahuaylillas.

• 5) What is the most popular tour after Machu Picchu?

  The 7 Color Mountain (Vinicunca) is the second most visited destination in Cusco. It’s a high-altitude adventure that involves both a drive and a hike, but is rewarded with natural landscapes and spectacular views.

• 6) What is the best way to get to Machu Picchu?

  The Inca Trail is the best way to explore Machu Picchu, being considered one of the best hikes in the world. This experience combines history, landscapes, and exclusive archaeological sites, culminating in entering Machu Picchu through the Inti Punku gate.

• 7) How far in advance should I book the Inca Trail?

  We advise booking the Classic Inca Trail tour 4 to 5 months in advance, as spots are limited and sell out quickly due to high demand. If you can’t find a spot, you can opt for the 2-day version or the 5-day Salkantay trek.

• 8) What is the best time to do the tours in Cusco?

  The best time is the dry season, from April to October, as it offers the best weather conditions for hikes and outdoor tours, especially for adventure routes. If you prefer fewer tourists and a different perspective, the rainy season (November to March) might surprise you.

• 9) Is it necessary to acclimatize before doing the tours?

  Yes, acclimatization in Cusco is essential due to the high altitude (3,399 meters above sea level). We recommend spending at least one or two days in the city or Sacred Valley before doing adventure tours to avoid altitude sickness and fully enjoy the experience.

• 10) Can I customize a tour itinerary in Cusco?

  Yes, we offer personalized and private tours tailored to your time, interests, and pace of travel, so you can enjoy a completely customized experience.

Advice from people who have been there

7 Color Mountain

By: Antoine S.

“A high-altitude adventure“

“Visiting the 7 Color Mountain is an impressive adventure. I couldn't believe we reached such a height, and the views were a dream. It’s an ideal trip if you have a free day in Cusco, but be warned—it requires a tough but small hike uphill.“

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, January 29, 2026