Optional Cusco Add-Ons.

Optional Add-Ons 

 

• The Huayna Picchu Hike is actually an optional hike inside Machu Picchu on your visit to the Inca site. The Huayna Picchu Mountain is the famous conical mountain in all of the classic Machu Picchu photos! Each day, 400 lucky people have the opportunity to climb this peak for the most majestic views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding valleys. You will need a special permit for this hike however as numbers are restricted. Let us know at the time of booking your Machu Picchu tour!

 

 

 

• Sacred Valley Tour: The Sacred Valley of the Incas is a picturesque region just outside of Cusco. You can visit towns like Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero, exploring ancient ruins, local markets, and enjoying the spectacular countryside of The Andes. If you are struggling or trying to acclimatize before your Inca Trail trek or Salkantay Trek, you should visit The Sacred Valley as it is 1000 meters lower than Cusco. 

 

 

• Horse Riding: Enjoy horseback riding in the beautiful countryside around Cusco, with the option to visit archaeological sites such as the Temple of The Moon and Qenqo and enjoy horse riding through the wonderful Andean region before your trekking adventure in The Andes.

 

• ChocoMuseo: This Chocolate Museum in Cusco offers workshops on making chocolate from scratch. It's a great activity for families or chocolate lovers.

 

• San Pedro Market: Explore this bustling local market on your Cusco City tour to experience the daily life of Cusco's residents. You can buy local products, sample traditional foods, and shop for souvenirs at this wonderful eclectic Cusco Market

 

• Sacsayhuaman and Cusco Ruins: Explore the archaeological complex of Sacsayhuaman, located just above Cusco. It's an impressive site with large stone walls and beautiful views of the city. Tambomachay and Puka Pukara are the lesser-known Inca ruins in the Cusco area. They are typically less crowded than the more famous sites like Sacsayhuaman and Machu Picchu and you can visit on a Cusco city tour either before or after your hike to Machu Picchu.

 

Sacsaywaman Fortress near Cusco

 

• Zip-Lining: There are several zip-lining options in the Sacred Valley, offering an adrenaline-filled adventure with breathtaking views. The Via Ferrata and Zipline adventure in the Sacred Valley is an excellent option before your Machu Picchu trek.

 

• South Valley Tour: The South Valley of Cusco is less frequented by tourists but offers a unique perspective of the region's history and culture. You can visit sites like Tipon (Inca agricultural terraces), Pikillacta (pre-Inca ruins), and Andahuaylillas (known as the "Sistine Chapel of the Andes" ) for its stunning church.

 

• Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca): This unique geological formation is known for its colorful stripey appearance. It's a challenging day hike due to the high elevations, but the stunning views of this remarkable mountain are worth the effort.

 

Rainbow Mountain

 

• Humantay Lake: A day trip to Humantay Lake, located in the Salkantay region, offers a breathtaking glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks. It's a relatively moderate hike and a great way to experience the Andean highlands as you acclimatize for your multi-day trek in The Andes.

 

• Qeswachaka (Inca Rope Bridge): Qeswachaka is the last remaining Inca bridge made of woven grass. You can visit this ancient engineering marvel, participate in bridge-building activities, and learn about traditional Quechua culture before your Machu Picchu hike.

 

• Mountain Biking: If you're an adventure enthusiast, consider mountain biking in the Sacred Valley or South Valley. There are various cycling routes catering to different skill levels. Our favorite is the cycling adventure at Maras and Moray in The Sacred Valley.

 

Cycling In The Sacred Valley

 

• Visiting Local Communities: Engage in community-based tourism by visiting local Andean communities. You can learn about traditional weaving, farming, and customs, and even participate in cultural exchanges.

 

Community Visit In The Sacred Valley

 

• Maras and Moray ATV tour: You can combine a visit to the Moray archaeological site with a Mountain Bike Tour or ATV tour, through the surrounding countryside, providing a unique perspective on local life in The Sacred Valley.

 

• Huchuy Qosqo: This is a less crowded day hike that is perfect as an acclimatization hike before you tackle the Inca Trail hike or Choquequirao Trek. This one-day hike takes you to the ancient site of Huchuy Qosqo, offering beautiful views and a glimpse into Inca history.