Cusco Day Tours also venture into the Sacred Valley, a region filled with picturesque villages, terraced fields, and impressive ruins. Sites like Pisac and Ollantaytambo reveal the ingenuity of Inca agriculture and architecture, offering a deeper understanding of this ancient culture. Engage with local communities, learn about traditional Andean crafts, and participate in cultural activities to enhance your Cusco experience.
The Cusco day tours are the perfect way to discover the essence of the ancient Inca capital, giving you just the right amount of time to explore its most iconic places. We’ve designed these tours so you can make the most of your visit, combining history, culture, and breathtaking scenery in just a few hours. You’ll be able to see emblematic sites and explore every corner, all accompanied by expert guides who ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Discover our Salkantay camps and experience the ultimate trekking adventure in the heart of the Andes with eco-friendly campsites and stunning views.
Choose the best Cusco Day Tours and discover the best of the ancient Inca capital through experiences designed to inspire you, created by Cusco’s top local experts who know its history, traditions and hidden wonders like no one else.
Spend a day exploring the heart of the Andes on a route that blends peaceful landscapes, history, and a bit of adventure. After leaving Cusco, the journey takes you through the quiet town of Ccorao and up to the highland village of Patabamba, where wide-open views set the tone for the day. The hike begins by Qoricocha Lake, climbing gently to Apacheta Pass—the highest point—before easing into a long, enjoyable descent through green valleys and the striking Puma Punku canyon. Along the way, you’ll walk a restored section of the original Inca Trail, a rare and memorable experience. The path leads to Huchuy Qosqo, an archaeological site perched above the Sacred Valley, where your guide will bring its terraces, temples, and ancient water systems to life. After lunch, a final descent takes you to Lamay, where your transport back to Cusco awaits. It’s a day filled with calm, beauty, and authentic Andean charm.
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Start your adventure in the heart of the Sacred Valley, departing from Ollantaytambo or Urubamba. Get ready for an unforgettable half-day ride that blends adventure, culture, and breathtaking scenery, as you explore two of the region’s most fascinating sites: Moray and the Maras Salt Mines.
Your experience begins with a short safety briefing before you hop on your ATV and set off along scenic rural trails surrounded by majestic Andean mountains and open landscapes. Your first destination is Moray, an impressive series of circular terraces once used by the Incas as an open-air agricultural laboratory to study different crops and microclimates.
From there, continue toward Maras, home to more than 3,000 dazzling salt pools cascading down the mountainside. Still harvested by hand today just as they were centuries ago, these brilliant white terraces create one of the most captivating views in the Andes.
This tour is the perfect mix of excitement, history, and natural beauty—an experience that lets you feel the thrill of the Andes, capture amazing photos, and connect with the living heritage of the Sacred Valley.
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You can begin this journey from Cusco, Urubamba, or Ollantaytambo—wherever feels most convenient for you. From there, we’ll set off into the heart of the Sacred Valley. Our first stop is the peaceful Huaypo Lagoon, a hidden gem cradled by rolling hills and snow-capped peaks. Here, you’ll have time to breathe in the stillness, admire the reflections on the water, and enjoy a picnic lunch made with fresh local ingredients, all while surrounded by breathtaking views.
From the lagoon, we continue on to Chinchero, a charming Andean village where tradition and history come alive. You’ll wander through its lively market, step inside the colonial church built over Inca foundations, and meet local artisans who’ll show you the secrets of their weaving—an art passed down through generations. The adventure then takes you to Moray, an extraordinary archaeological site of circular terraces. Once used by the Incas as a kind of agricultural laboratory, these rings of stone reveal just how advanced and ingenious their farming experiments were.
Finally, we arrive at the Maras Salt Mines, where more than 3,000 salt pools shimmer down the mountainside. Still worked by local families in the same way their ancestors did, the salt pans create a stunning mosaic of whites and golds against the rugged landscape.
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We begin this unforgettable adventure in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, with early morning departures from Ollantaytambo or Urubamba. From here, our comfortable transport takes us on a scenic journey toward the trailhead, passing through fertile valleys and traditional Andean villages along the way.
The Humantay Lake Full-Day Tour is a breathtaking experience that leads you to one of the most spectacular natural wonders of Peru. Nestled high in the Peruvian Andes at 4,200 meters (13,779 ft), the lake greets travelers with its mesmerizing turquoise waters, framed by the towering snowcapped peaks of Salkantay and Humantay Mountains.
The hike offers the perfect balance of challenge and reward. As you ascend through diverse Andean landscapes—green valleys, rocky trails, and glacial streams—you’ll feel both the effort of the altitude and the serenity of the natural beauty surrounding you. Along the way, your guide will share stories of Inca traditions and the spiritual significance of the mountains, known locally as Apus (sacred protectors).
Upon reaching Humantay Lake, the view is nothing short of extraordinary. The mirror-like waters reflect the peaks above, creating a scene that feels otherworldly. Here, you’ll have time to rest, take photos, and absorb the peaceful atmosphere of this sacred site before beginning the descent.
Whether you are a seasoned hiker or simply seeking a day of exploration, the Humantay Lake Tour is an unforgettable journey that blends natural beauty, adventure, and cultural connection, leaving you with lasting memories of Peru’s majestic Andes.
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We start and end this adventure from the Sacred Valley of the Incas, with departures from Ollantaytambo or Urubamba. From here, we journey into the Andes to experience one of Peru’s most remarkable natural wonders: the Rainbow Mountain, or Vinicunca.
Located along the breathtaking Ausangate Trek, this colorful peak stands near Ausangate Mountain, which has been revered since pre-Inca times as a sacred Apu (mountain spirit) and protector of Cusco. Offerings and spiritual traditions tied to the mountain remain alive even today.
While the Rainbow Mountain was once accessible only through a challenging six-day trek, our specially designed itinerary makes it possible to witness this stunning landscape in a single day.
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Discover the hidden beauty of the Andes on our Singrenacocha Lake Tour, a full-day adventure that takes you far from the crowds into the heart of Peru’s highlands. Nestled near Ocongate, this dazzling turquoise lake lies at the foot of snow-capped peaks, creating a postcard-perfect setting that feels untouched by time. Along the way, you’ll pass through traditional Andean villages, spot llamas and alpacas grazing freely, and enjoy the warmth of local hospitality. At the lake, immerse yourself in breathtaking views, learn about the cultural significance of the surrounding mountains, and take a peaceful walk along the shore. With delicious meals and optional hot springs to end the day, this journey offers the perfect blend of nature, culture, and relaxation.
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Our company specializes in arranging trips through the Sacred Valley, ensuring that travelers leave with a memorable and one-of-a-kind experience while discovering the valley’s stunning beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture.
On this tour, you’ll have the chance to explore the most significant Inca archaeological sites in the valley and immerse yourself in Andean culture through local art, traditional markets, customs, and popular traditions in the towns of Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero. The valley’s pleasant climate adds to the enjoyment of the experience.
Book our Classic Sacred Valley Day Trip online to explore the region’s key archaeological sites with our local guides from Peru Spirit Adventure and secure your spot today.
This rewarding full-day Sacred Valley tour takes you through the lowland area between Pisac and Ollantaytambo, known as the Sacred Valley or Urubamba Valley, a place of immense cultural importance to the Incas due to its geography and favorable climate.
During this incredible day tour, you’ll pass through a series of charming villages, breathtaking landscapes, agricultural terraces, and remarkable archaeological sites from the Inca period as you travel through the Urubamba Valley toward Ollantaytambo, a key location at the northern end of the valley and a gateway to Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail.
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Get ready for an unforgettable day of adventure in the Sacred Valley! Start your journey with an exhilarating ATV quad biking tour through the stunning landscapes of Moray, where ancient Inca terraces and breathtaking views await. Feel the thrill as you ride across rugged trails surrounded by mountains and history. After the adrenaline rush, enjoy a delicious lunch to recharge your energy. Then, head to the peaceful Huaypo Lake, where you’ll paddle across its serene waters during a relaxing kayaking experience. Nature, culture, and adventure—all in one epic day!
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Experience one of the world’s most iconic destinations in a single, unforgettable day with a Machu Picchu day tour from Ollantaytambo. This streamlined journey takes you on the famous train route from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to the awe-inspiring citadel of Machu Picchu, often called the “Lost City of the Incas.”
Designed for travelers seeking comfort and convenience, this itinerary requires no hiking, making it ideal for visitors of all ages and fitness levels. Travel through the heart of the Peruvian Andes aboard a scenic train, then explore the mysteries of Machu Picchu with a professional guide who will bring its ancient walls and legends to life.
While the altitude in Cusco may be a bit challenging for some, the journey is relaxed and the accommodations are cozy and welcoming. Along the way, you’ll witness some of the most stunning landscapes in South America, lush valleys, dramatic peaks, and verdant cloud forests.
Join us for a truly memorable journey, and see why travelers around the world call this a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
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Embark on a full-day journey through the heart of the Andes and uncover the living legacy of the Inca civilization. The Q’eswachaka Bridge, an ancient suspension bridge made from braided plant fiber, is rebuilt each year by local communities—a breathtaking example of ancestral engineering and cultural resilience. Combined with the serene beauty of the Four Lagoons—Pampamarca, Asnacqocha, Acopía, and Pomacanchi—this tour offers a perfect blend of history, tradition, and natural wonder. Ideal for travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences and off-the-beaten-path adventures.
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Discover the stunning Pallay Punchu Mountain, a hidden gem in the southern Andes of Cusco. Its sharp, multicolored ridges and panoramic views will transport you to a surreal landscape, far from the usual tourist trails. Sitting at over 4,700 meters above sea level, this full-day tour blends adventure, vibrant Andean culture, and untouched nature—perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, intimate, and visually unforgettable experience.
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Get ready for an unforgettable day exploring Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain, one of the Andes’ best-kept secrets. Unlike the busy trails of Vinicunca, Palcoyo gives you a chill and scenic hike, with not just one, but three rainbow-colored mountains waiting to wow you. It’s perfect if you’re into stunning landscapes, peaceful walks, and taking it all in without rushing. Plus, the hike’s easier and the altitude is friendlier. It’s nature at its most magical, quiet, colorful, and totally Instagram-worthy
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Our company proudly holds official certifications and memberships with recognized travel associations in Peru and worldwide, ensuring quality, safety, and trust in every expedition.
Explore the Imperial City with our Cusco Tours and discover sacred temples, streets steeped in history, and the authentic essence of Inca culture with local experts. Book your tour today and travel!
Day tours in Cusco are the most practical and enriching way to explore the imperial city; take advantage of tours designed to show you the best of its history, culture, and landscapes in a short time.
Tourists greatly value the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of Cusco. Visiting iconic sites like the Qorikancha Temple, the Cathedral, and the San Pedro Market allows them to experience the unique blend of Inca heritage and colonial influence. A guided tour provides in-depth information about the history, local customs, and traditions, making the experience much more enriching.
The fact that an organized tour handles all the logistical details (transportation, tickets, and scheduling) is highly appreciated by tourists. Instead of wasting time planning or searching for transport, they can relax and enjoy the sights without any worries. This is especially important for those with limited time or unfamiliar with the city.
Tourists enjoy the chance to visit iconic sites like Sacsayhuamán and other historic places with the guidance of an expert. Additionally, many tours include visits to local markets and other lesser known spots, offering a more authentic experience away from the typical tourist crowds.
Here is the key information you need to know before choosing your Cusco Day Tours, including availability, transportation, guides, entrance fees and essential tips for a smooth experience. Understanding these details will help you plan better and make the most of your visit to the ancient Inca capital.
It’s important to check whether the one-day tour you're interested in is available on the specific date of your visit. Additionally, decide if you prefer a group tour or a private tour, as group tours tend to be more affordable, while private tours offer a more personalized experience.
One-day tours in Cusco usually last between 6 and 8 hours, depending on the number of attractions included. Be sure to confirm the start and end times of the tour to ensure it fits into your schedule, as many tours begin in the morning.
Make sure the tour includes transportation, whether it’s by bus, minivan, or other means, to take you between the various attractions. Some tours offer hotel pick-up and drop-off, so confirm this detail to ensure convenience and save time.
Some tours include entrance fees to sites like Sacsayhuamán or the Cusco Cathedral, while others may not. Be sure to confirm whether these fees are included in the tour price or if you'll need to pay separately at each site. Don’t forget to ask about any additional charges, such as for photography.
Many of the sites included in a one-day tour of Cusco require some walking, and some may involve steep paths or uneven terrain, especially in places like Sacsayhuamán. If you have mobility issues or would prefer not to do strenuous walking, it’s a good idea to confirm the level of difficulty before booking the tour.
Cusco sits at a high altitude, so it's essential to take it easy when you first arrive to avoid altitude sickness. Drink plenty of water, and allow yourself time to acclimatize. It’s also wise to have health insurance that covers any emergencies while traveling.
Some tours include lunch, often at a local restaurant, while others may not. If meals are not included, make sure to plan for a break to grab food during the tour. You can ask the operator in advance whether lunch is part of the package and what type of meal is offered.
For a comfortable experience, wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as many tours involve walking. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water to stay hydrated. Depending on the weather, you might also want to carry a light jacket or umbrella for rain protection, as Cusco’s weather can be unpredictable.
Cusco’s weather can change rapidly throughout the day, with actual temperatures typically ranging from 0°C to 19°C depending on the time of year. During the dry season (May to October), the days are sunny with highs between 18°C and 22°C, while nights can drop to 5°C or lower. In the rainy season (November to March), afternoon showers are common, with average temperatures of 6°C to 14°C and frequent rainfall, especially in January and February.
Dive into our One Day Tours in Cusco Photo Gallery and relive the beauty, culture and energy of the Imperial City through stunning images, let these visuals inspire your own journey through Cusco.
Planning a trip to Cusco and hoping to explore its most iconic sites in just one day? This FAQ guide brings together the most common questions travelers ask before booking a day tour, offering clear and reliable answers about schedules, altitude, packing essentials, and what to expect during your visit.
Cusco is located in southeastern Peru, in the heart of the Andes, at an altitude of 3,399 meters (11,152 ft) above sea level. It was once the capital of the Inca Empire and is now the main gateway for travelers who want to explore Machu Picchu and enjoy the best tours in Cusco.
Cusco Day Tours are full-day or half-day guided experiences that allow travelers to explore the most important archaeological, cultural and historical sites around the city. These Cusco tours typically include iconic places such as Sacsayhuamán, Koricancha, Qenqo, Tambomachay, the Sacred Valley, Rainbow Mountain and more, offering a complete introduction to the region in just one day.
Yes, Cusco is generally safe for tourists, especially in the historic center and main tourist areas. As in any popular destination, it’s important to take basic precautions: keep an eye on your belongings, avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas, use official taxis or ride services, and stay aware of your surroundings.
Cusco’s weather can change quickly. In case of heavy rain or unsafe conditions, the operator may adjust the itinerary or offer an alternative route. If the Cusco Day Tour must be canceled due to extreme weather, most companies will provide a full refund or offer to reschedule for another available date.
If you only have one day in Cusco, you can still experience the city’s most iconic highlights. Start by exploring the historic center, including the Plaza de Armas and the Cusco Cathedral. Then visit Koricancha (Temple of the Sun), one of the most important Inca temples. In the afternoon, head to the nearby archaeological sites of Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay
Most travelers need 1 to 2 days to acclimate properly to Cusco’s high altitude (3,399 m / 11,152 ft). During this time, take it easy, stay hydrated, avoid heavy meals and alcohol, and rest as needed. This adjustment period helps reduce the chances of altitude sickness and ensures you enjoy your tours comfortably.
The best time is the dry season (May–October) for clear skies and ideal trekking conditions. The rainy season (November–April) has fewer crowds and lower prices, but more rain.
Our tours in Cusco are designed for most travelers and include light to moderate walks, sometimes on uneven terrain. While a high level of fitness isn't required, it's important that you can walk comfortably and handle the altitude. If you have any medical conditions or reduced mobility, please let us know and we'll adapt the tour to your needs whenever possible.
