06 Day Andean Jewels of Cusco – Small Groups

The "06 Day Andean Jewels of Cusco" tour offers adventurous travelers an immersive exploration of Peru’s rich cultural and natural landscapes. With a max of 8 participants, this small-group experience showcases breathtaking highlights like Chinchero, Maras, Moray, and the iconic Machu Picchu. Seamless transportation, expert guides, and comfortable accommodations ensure a memorable journey filled with stunning vistas and historical insights. It’s an opportunity to uncover the jewels of the Andes, leaving you eager to experience more.

Key Points

• 6-day small-group tour from Cusco, Peru, with a maximum group size of 8 people, showcasing highlights like Chinchero, Maras, Moray, Humantay Lake, Rainbow Mountain, and Machu Picchu.
• Includes 5 nights’ accommodation in 3-star hotels, all entrance fees, professional tour guides, and transportation via private air-conditioned vehicles.
• Breakfast (5) and lunch (2) provided, with a focus on efficient logistics for a seamless travel experience.
• Requires a moderate fitness level and is not recommended for individuals with certain medical conditions or accessibility needs.
• Tour priced from $739.00 per person, with a 5.0 overall rating from 397 reviews, praised for organization and knowledgeable guides.

Tour Overview

This 6-day small-group tour from Cusco, Peru is recommended by 100% of travelers.

With a maximum group size of 8 people, it’s ideal for those who want to explore the Andes at a comfortable pace.

Highlights include Chinchero, Maras, Moray, Humantay Lake, Rainbow Mountain, and the iconic Machu Picchu.

Professional tour guides lead all tours, and private air-conditioned transportation is provided throughout.

The tour starts at 5:00 am and requires a moderate fitness level, as it’s not wheelchair accessible or recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions.

Inclusions

The tour includes 5 nights’ accommodation in 3-star hotels on a double room basis.

It also includes:

• All entrance fees and roundtrip bus to Machu Picchu
• Professional tour guide for all tours
• Touristic train to Machu Picchu (Inca Rail Voyager or Peru Rail Expedition)
• Breakfast (5) and lunch (2)
• Private air-conditioned transportation throughout the tour

This comprehensive package ensures travelers can fully enjoy the Andean Jewels of Cusco without worrying about logistics.

The inclusions cater to the needs of participants, allowing them to explore the highlights at a comfortable pace.

Pickup and Scheduling

How does the tour handle pickup and scheduling? The tour provides pickup from either the Cusco airport or bus terminal upon arrival.

For the daily tours, the tour company handles hotel pickups. The tour starts bright and early at 5:00 am. This early start time allows participants to beat the crowds and explore the sites at a comfortable pace.

The tour emphasizes efficiency in transportation, with private air-conditioned vehicles used throughout the 6-day itinerary. This attention to logistics ensures a seamless experience for travelers, allowing them to focus on seeing the stunning Andean landscapes.

Health and Accessibility

Although not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for travelers with a moderate level of physical fitness.

Participants should be aware of the following:

• Not recommended for those with back problems, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions.
• Hiking to Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain requires a good level of endurance and mobility.
• Navigating the uneven terrain and steep steps at Machu Picchu can be challenging.
• Altitude sickness may be a concern, especially for those unaccustomed to high elevations.
• Customers are advised to consult their healthcare provider before booking if they’ve any physical limitations.

Pricing and Reviews

Priced from $739.00 per person, this tour offers excellent value for the money.

With no refunds for cancellations, the operator ensures commitment from travelers. However, the non-refundable policy may deter some.

The tour boasts an impressive 5.0 overall rating from 397 reviews across Viator and Tripadvisor. Travelers praise the tour’s organization and the knowledgeable guides.

The small group size of 8 people maximum contributes to a more personalized experience.

Chinchero, the Textile Capital

The small town of Chinchero, nestled high in the Andes, is often referred to as the "Textile Capital" of the region.

Visitors can explore the traditional weaving techniques passed down through generations.

The town boasts:

• Ancient Inca ruins and colonial architecture
• A lively Sunday market showcasing vibrant textiles and handicrafts
• Demonstrations of weaving on backstrap looms
• The opportunity to interact with local artisans and learn about their craft
• Breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley and snowcapped mountains

This authentic cultural experience is a highlight of the Andean Jewels of Cusco tour.

Maras and Moray: Ancient Salt Pools and Inca Ruins

After exploring the vibrant Andean town of Chinchero, the tour ventures to the intriguing sites of Maras and Moray.

Maras is renowned for its ancient Inca salt ponds, dating back to the 15th century. Visitors can witness local farmers still harvesting salt, a tradition carried on for generations.

Maras is renowned for its ancient Inca salt ponds, where local farmers still harvest salt, a tradition passed down for generations.

Next, the group explores the mysterious Inca ruins of Moray. These giant amphitheater-like depressions were likely used as agricultural research labs, testing different crops and microclimates.

Both Maras and Moray offer a glimpse into the ingenious agricultural practices of the Inca civilization, leaving travelers in awe of their ancient engineering feats.

Conquering the Rainbow Mountain

Moving on from the ancient wonders of Maras and Moray, the tour now sets its sights on the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain.

Trekking through the Andes, the group will witness nature’s vibrant masterpiece – a mountain striped with stunning hues of red, orange, and purple. The climb can be challenging, but the payoff is unparalleled:

• Panoramic views of the Andes
• Unique geology and multicolored mineral deposits
• Opportunity to acclimate to the high altitude
• Sense of accomplishment from reaching the summit
• Picturesque photo ops to capture the mountain’s splendor

Tackling the Rainbow Mountain is a highlight of the Andean Jewels tour, rewarding adventurous travelers with an unforgettable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Time Do We Return From Machu Picchu on the Last Day?

The tour returns from Machu Picchu around 6:30 pm on the last day. Travelers will take the touristic train back, arriving in Cusco in the evening after a full day exploring the iconic Inca citadel.

Are There Any Options for Dietary Restrictions or Food Allergies?

The tour provides breakfast and lunch during the tour, but it doesn’t specify any options for dietary restrictions or food allergies. Travelers with dietary needs should contact the tour operator directly to inquire about accommodating their requirements.

Can We Bring Our Own Snacks and Drinks During the Tour?

Travelers can bring their own snacks and drinks on the tour. However, it’s important to note that meals and some refreshments are already included in the tour package, so extra provisions may not be necessary.

Is There an Option to Upgrade to a Higher Class of Train to Machu Picchu?

Yes, travelers can upgrade to a higher class of train to Machu Picchu. The tour offers the option to take the Inca Rail Voyager or Peru Rail Expedition, which provide a more comfortable and premium experience for an additional cost.

Do We Have Any Free Time to Explore Cusco on Our Own?

The tour does not provide any free time to explore Cusco on your own. It’s a structured itinerary focused on visiting the key sites in the Cusco region. Travelers will have to make their own arrangements to explore Cusco independently if they wish to do so.

The Sum Up

The "06 Day Andean Jewels of Cusco" tour promises an immersive exploration of Peru’s rich cultural and natural wonders. Travelers can expect breathtaking landscapes, historical insights, and comfortable accommodations, all while enjoying the intimacy of a small-group experience. Whether seeking textiles, salt pools, or the iconic Machu Picchu, this tour offers an unforgettable adventure through the Andes.