Cusco Tour Packages 8D/7N – Adventure Cusco Tours

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From$1,350
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  • Group of 5 or more people:USD 1350 per person
  • Group of 4 people:USD 1400 per person
  • Group of 3 people: USD 1560 per person
  • Group of 2 people: USD 1670 per person
  • Tour for 1 person: USD 2300

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8 Days & 7 Nights
 
Starting from US$1350 per person
US$1400Save US$50
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    Private Camps & HotelAccommodation
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    Up to 12 peopleGroup Size
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    16,522.64 feetMaximum altitude
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    Varies by dayDifficulty
  • Cusco – Sacsayhuamán – Qenqo – Temple of the Moon – Sacred Valley – Women’s Textile Center – Maras Salt Mines – Ollantaytambo – Short Inca Trail – Machu Picchu – Patacancha

Cusco Tour Packages 8D/7N

On this 8-day, 7-night experience in Cusco, you’ll discover both the history and culture of this unique region. We’ll visit ancient ruins that tell the stories of past civilizations and explore high-altitude communities, where you’ll get a glimpse into the daily life of their inhabitants.

We’ll walk along Inca trails, experience the magic of Machu Picchu at sunrise, and have the chance to share special moments with Quechua families, learning about their traditions and customs. All of this at a calm and comfortable pace, so you can enjoy every moment without feeling rushed.

With Mother Earth Treks, this journey is an opportunity to discover, learn, and connect with the sacred land of Peru in a genuine and meaningful way.

Mother Earth Treks






Overview

Get ready for a thrilling adventure with our Cusco Tour Packages 8D/7N by Mother Earth Treks. Explore the best of Cusco, from ancient ruins to vibrant traditions. Each day offers a blend of cultural immersion, stunning landscapes, and guided activities. We’ll travel at a thoughtful pace to ensure both comfort and discovery.

On arrival in Cusco, we will take time to rest and acclimate to the altitude of 3,400 meters (11,155 feet). A relaxed afternoon will help our bodies adjust smoothly. We will stroll through local streets, sample coca tea, and prepare for the days ahead. This is our arrival in Cusco – Aclimatación.

We will begin with a Walking City Tour through Cusco, learning about its Inca and colonial past. We will visit Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, and the Moon temple. These sacred sites will offer us insight into ancient Andean beliefs. The mix of architecture and nature will leave us amazed.

Our journey through the Sacred Valley will showcase the beauty of Peru Andean. We will stop at a Women’s Textile Center to see traditional weaving techniques. The Maras Salt will display thousands of salt pools shimmering on the mountainside. We will end the day exploring the living Inca town of Ollantaytambo.

Next comes a meaningful start on the Inca Trail. We will hike the Short Inca Trail, covering 10 km (6.2 miles). The path takes us through lush forests and past ancient Inca ruins. This hike will get us ready for the excitement of the next day.

Our Machu Picchu Day will be unforgettable. We will arrive early to witness the sunrise over the citadel. A guided tour will explain its temples, terraces, and astronomical secrets. We will have time to wander and reflect at 2,430 meters (7,972 feet).

Afterward, we will explore Patacancha, a highland village filled with Quechua traditions. In this Experiencia Indígena en Patacancha, we will learn from local families. We will share meals, stories, and take part in traditional farming or weaving. It will be a day full of human connection and deep learning.

On our final day, we will return to Cusco for rest or last-minute exploration. We may revisit favorite places or try new local dishes. The city’s charm, music, and colors will stay with us. We will carry home memories of the Andes, its people, and their legacy.

Tour Statistics:
  • Total distance walked: 33 km (20.5 miles)

  • Highest altitude: 5,035 meters (16,522 feet) (Vinicunca)

  • Lowest altitude: 2,040 meters (6,693 feet) (Aguas Calientes)

  • Route: Cusco – Sacred Valley – Short Inca Trail – Machu Picchu – Rainbow Mountain
  • Difficulty level: Moderate to Challenging
Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival in Cusco – Acclimatization

Upon arrival in Cusco (3,399 meters / 11,152 feet), you’ll immediately notice the crisp mountain air and slower rhythm of life. We recommend taking it easy today to help your body adjust to the altitude. When you arrive in the ancient Inca capital, old stone streets and colonial buildings greet you.

Your first few hours will be dedicated to resting and hydration. Drinking coca tea and avoiding heavy meals or alcohol will support the acclimatization process. A short and relaxed walk around the main square and nearby streets offers a soft introduction to Cusco’s charm without straining your body.

You’ll notice the cultural richness in every corner—from Quechua women in traditional dress to vibrant artisan markets. By walking slowly and breathing deeply, you’ll begin to harmonize with the Andes. The goal today is simple: enjoy the surroundings and allow your body to adapt.

Distance walked: 3 km (1.86 miles)

Elevation: 3,399 meters (11,152 feet) above sea level

Difficulty: Easy

Day 2Walking City Tour – Plaza de Armas – Sacsayhuamán – Qenqo – Templo de la Luna

Today begins with a walking tour that introduces you to Cusco’s spiritual and historical core. We’ll start at the Plaza de Armas, the heart of the city. The Cathedral and the Church of the Society of Jesus were built on top of an old Inca ceremonial site, showing the mix of Inca and Spanish cultures in Cusco.

We’ll ascend gently to Sacsayhuamán, the impressive Inca fortress made of colossal stones, some weighing over 100 tons. These massive blocks fit so perfectly without mortar that not even a blade of grass fits between them. The views over Cusco from here are stunning.

Next, we visit Qenqo, a sacred site carved into the rock, believed to have been used for ceremonies and sacrifices. We’ll finish the day at the Temple of the Moon, a mystical place hidden in the hills, still used for Andean rituals today. This enriching walk blends history, legend, and panoramic landscapes.

Distance walked: 5 km (3.11 miles)

Elevation: 3,700 meters (12,139 feet) above sea level

Difficulty: Moderate

Day 3Sacred Valley – Textile Center – Maras Salt Mines – Ollantaytambo

Our full-day journey into the Sacred Valley begins with a visit to a women’s textile cooperative, where local artisans keep alive ancestral weaving techniques. You’ll see how natural dyes and traditional looms are used, giving you a closer look at the culture behind the colorful Andean clothing.

We’ll then head to the fascinating circular terraces of Moray, an ancient Inca agricultural laboratory that played a vital role in crop adaptation. Each level of the terrace has its own microclimate, showcasing the Inca’s advanced understanding of the natural world.

Later, we’ll explore the Maras Salt Mines—over 3,000 glistening white pools carved into the mountain slope. The salt has been harvested here for centuries using pre-Inca methods. Finally, we’ll reach Ollantaytambo, a living Inca town, where we’ll spend the night among cobbled streets and stone walls.

Distance walked: 4 km (2.49 miles)

Elevation: 2,792 meters (9,160 feet) above sea level

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Day 4Start of the Short Inca Trail – Chachabamba – Wiñay Wayna to Machu Picchu

Today we board an early train and disembark at km 104 (64.62 miles), the gateway to the Short Inca Trail. We begin our trek at Chachabamba, a small archaeological site.

From here, the path ascends through lush cloud forest. The trail is well preserved and climbs gradually. Birds chirp and orchids bloom along the way.

After a few hours, we reach the stunning ruins of Wiñay Wayna. This complex sits on the edge of a cliff, with terraces that seem to float in the mist. We pause for lunch, soaking in the silence and the view. Our guide explains the history and function of this site.

We continue uphill until we reach Inti Punku, the Sun Gate, at 2,720 meters (8,924 feet). Suddenly, the view opens and there it is: Machu Picchu, nestled in green mountains. It’s a powerful moment. We descend and take a short bus ride to Aguas Calientes to rest for the night.

Day 5Gateways to Wonder – Phuyupatamarca – Intipata – Wiñay Wayna – Inti Punku – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes

You’ll wake up early to take one of the first buses to Machu Picchu (2,430 meters / 7,972 feet), arriving as the sun rises. The first light of day hits the mountains, turning the ancient stone city golden—a magical and unforgettable view. Entering the sanctuary feels like stepping back in time, surrounded by mystery and architectural brilliance.

Your guide will take you to the main spots in Machu Picchu: the Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana stone, Sacred Plaza, and the Temple of the Condor. Your guide will explain the spiritual, astronomical, and engineering significance of each structure. You’ll discover how the Incas aligned their buildings with the cosmos and how they managed to build such a masterpiece atop steep ridges.

After your guided tour, you’ll have time to take photos or explore on your own before descending to Aguas Calientes. In the afternoon, you’ll take the train to Ollantaytambo and then continue by vehicle to Cusco. After a long but enriching day, you’ll return to your hotel and rest, carrying the wonder of Machu Picchu in your hearts.

Distance walked: 3 km (1.86 miles)

Elevation: 2,430 meters (7,972 feet) above sea level

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Day 6Patacancha Community Visit – Andean Traditions and Rituals

Today, you’ll experience the culture of the Patacancha community, located 3,800 meters (12,467 feet) high in the Andes. After breakfast, a private vehicle will take you up a scenic road into the mountains. On arrival, local Quechua families will greet you warmly in their native language and traditional clothing.

You’ll join in traditional activities like weaving, where local women use simple looms to create beautiful textiles with old patterns. You’ll also join in preparing a Pachamanca, a traditional Andean meal cooked underground with hot stones. The process is a celebration of earth, food, and community.

Later, you’ll join an Offering to the Earth ceremony, a spiritual offering to Pachamama, or Mother Earth. An Andean shaman will guide the ritual with coca leaves, wine, and symbolic gifts. Through songs, stories, and dance, you’ll form a deep connection with this ancient culture. This day will nourish your soul as much as your senses.

Distance walked: 2 km (1.24 miles)

Elevation: 3,800 meters (12,467 feet) above sea level

Difficulty: Easy

Day 8Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) Hike – Andean Colors at 5,000+ meters

Prepare for a breathtaking adventure as you head toward Vinicunca, also known as the Rainbow Mountain. Departing Cusco around 4:00 A.M, you’ll enjoy a scenic 3:30 hour drive through valleys, herds of llamas, and snow-capped peaks. After breakfast in a small Andean village, you’ll start hiking up to one of Peru’s most colorful natural sights.

The trail begins at 4,600 meters (15,092 feet) and climbs gradually to 5,035 meters (16,522 feet). You’ll hike for about 2:30 hours, with plenty of breaks to rest and enjoy the stunning mountain views. The mountain itself displays vibrant bands of red, yellow, green, and purple, created by mineral deposits. It’s a surreal sight that feels out of this world.

At the top, you’ll celebrate, take photos, and enjoy amazing views of the Ausangate Glacier, the tallest mountain in southern Peru. Afterward, you’ll descend carefully, enjoy a well-earned lunch, and return to Cusco in the late afternoon. Though the hike is demanding, the reward is truly unforgettable.

Distance walked: 7 km (4.35 miles)

Elevation: 5,035 meters (16,522 feet) above sea level

Difficulty: Challenging

Day 8Free Morning in Cusco – Return Flight

We will enjoy a relaxing morning in Cusco after a week of adventure. After breakfast, you may explore the city. Walk around San Blas, return to the Plaza de Armas, or shop for alpaca textiles.

Visit museums like Museo Inka or enjoy coca tea in a quiet café. This is your time to reflect, relax, and absorb everything you’ve experienced in the Andes.

Depending on your flight, we will take you to the airport on time. The tour ends, but the memories stay with you forever. You have walked ancient trails, learned from local communities, and connected deeply with nature. We hope you return home inspired, renewed, and filled with the spirit of the Andes.

Distance walked: Optional

Elevation: 3,399 meters (11,152 feet) above sea level

Difficulty: Flexible
Price Includes
  • 7 nights in 3-star hotels (double occupancy)
  • Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
  • Professional local guides throughout the tour
  • All ground transportation as per itinerary
  • Entrance tickets to all sites mentioned in the itinerary
  • First aid kit and oxygen bottle for emergencies
  • Lunches included on the following days:
    • Sacred Valley full-day tour
    • Short Inca Trail day (Km 104)
    • Rainbow Mountain day
Price Excludes
  • International and domestic flights (unless otherwise specified)
  • Meals and drinks (except for included lunches)
  • Travel insurance and visa fees
  • Tips for guides, drivers, and support staff (Optional)
  • Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (unless pre-arranged)
  • Additional Services (Optional)
  • Single room supplement: $420
  • Access to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain: $85 per person
Packing List
Valid Passport & Documents
  • Bring your passport, printed or digital travel insurance, flight tickets, and booking confirmations.
Comfortable Clothing
  • Pack layers: moisture-wicking shirts, warm fleece, waterproof jacket, casual pants, and a sun hat.
Footwear
  • Use broken-in hiking boots or shoes, casual walking shoes, and flip-flops for relaxing at hotels.
Personal Hygiene Items
  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, hand sanitizer, sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, and tissues.
Health & Medications
  • Bring any prescription meds, altitude sickness tablets, basic first-aid kit, and motion sickness pills.
Electronics & Chargers
  • Phone, camera, portable charger, extra memory cards, and a universal power adapter (Type A/B/C).
Daypack & Water Bottle
  • A small backpack for day trips and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
Weather Protection
  • Sunglasses with UV protection, rain poncho, scarf, warm hat, gloves, and sunblock.
Travel Snacks & Extras
  • Energy bars, nuts, and some local currency (soles), along with a debit or credit card for purchases.
Responsible Travel Mindset
  • Travel light, respect local communities and nature, and support fair practices for porters and staff.
Photos
Faqs

What is the best time of year to take this tour?

The dry season from May to September is ideal for this tour. The weather is clearer, making it perfect for hikes like the Inca Trail and Rainbow Mountain. However, the tour runs year-round.

Is altitude sickness a concern on this trip?

Yes, altitude sickness can affect visitors. Cusco is at 11,155 feet. It’s recommended to rest on your first day, stay hydrated, and avoid heavy meals. Coca tea and altitude pills may help ease symptoms.

What kind of accommodation is included?

The tour includes 7 nights in 3-star hotels, based on double occupancy. All hotels feature central locations with private bathrooms, hot water, Wi-Fi, and breakfast.

Are flights included in the package?

No, we do not include international and domestic flights unless otherwise specified. Travelers should arrange their own flights to and from Cusco.

Can I upgrade to a single room?

Yes, a single room supplement is available for an additional fee of $420. Be sure to request this in advance.

Are meals included in the package?

The tour includes only some meals: lunches during the Sacred Valley Tour, Inca Trail day hike, and Rainbow Mountain excursion. We don’t include other meals, so you can explore local cuisine freely.

Do I need to be physically fit for this tour?

We recommend a moderate level of fitness. The tour includes day hikes, some at high altitude. Prior hiking experience is helpful but not mandatory.

Are tickets to Machu Picchu included?

Yes, the regular Machu Picchu ticket is included. If you want to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you need to book ahead and pay an extra $85 per person.

What should I pack for the tour?

Bring essentials like layered clothing, hiking shoes, passport, sunscreen, reusable water bottle, medications, and a power adapter. We will provide a detailed packing list upon booking.

Enquire Now

    Tour Price per Person
    Group of 5 or more people:
    USD 1350 per person
    Group of 4 people:
    USD 1400 per person
    Group of 3 people:
    USD 1560 per person
    Group of 2 people:
    USD 1670 per person
    Tour for 1 person:
    USD 2300
    1 Review
    Sort By:RatingDate

    Lucas J.

    Solo Traveller

    “An Unforgettable Journey with Mother Earth Treks!”
    This 8-day adventure was everything we hoped for and more! Mother Earth Treks welcomed us and took care of us from the moment we landed in Cusco. Every detail was well organized—from airport pickups to the day hikes.
    The Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain were breathtaking, and our guides were knowledgeable and super friendly. The hotels were clean, cozy, and perfectly located. We highly recommend this tour to anyone wanting a well-rounded and authentic experience in Peru!

    April 15, 2025