6D Cusco, Machu Picchu, La Paz and Uyuni Salt Flats

Experience the Best of Peru and Bolivia in 6 Days

Imagine wandering through the ancient streets of Cusco, marveling at the mystical Machu Picchu, exploring vibrant La Paz, and standing before the surreal Uyuni Salt Flats. For just over a week, this carefully curated tour takes you from the highlands of Peru to the salt deserts of Bolivia, with guides, flights, and all major attractions included.

What we love about this experience is how it balances culture with breathtaking scenery. The guided city tours in Cusco and La Paz are insightful without feeling rushed. Plus, the chance to see Machu Picchu with an optional climb to Huaynapicchu adds a layer of adventure few get to experience.

A consideration is the long travel days, particularly the overnight bus trip between La Paz and Uyuni, which might be tiring but also adds to the sense of adventure. This trip suits travelers who are comfortable with some early mornings, bus rides, and a packed itinerary, but who also crave authentic moments and stunning vistas.

If you’re eager to see iconic sites, enjoy guided excursions, and want a comprehensive experience that covers two countries in one trip, this tour offers tremendous value. It’s perfect for active travelers who don’t mind a busy schedule and want to maximize their time in South America.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary combining Cusco, Machu Picchu, La Paz, and Uyuni Salt Flats in 6 days.
• All major entrance fees, flights, and transportation included, simplifying planning.
• Small group size (limited to 15 participants) ensures personalized attention.
• Optional activities like climbing Huaynapicchu offer a memorable adventure.
• Long travel days are part of the journey, especially the bus trip to Uyuni.
• The tour balances cultural exploration with stunning landscapes, providing incredible value for the price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the 6D Tour: What’s Included and What to Expect

This tour aims to pack as much as possible into a relatively short timeframe, which is both its strength and one of its challenges. It’s designed for travelers who want a full South American experience without the hassle of organizing multiple components themselves.

Day 1: Cusco City and Its Highlights

The tour begins in the historic Cusco, where your guide—likely a friendly local—takes you on a city tour. You’ll visit Qoricancha (the Temple of the Sun), Cusco Cathedral, and notable ruins like Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Pukapukara, and Tambomachay. Expect to walk through cobblestone streets, learning about Inca architecture and colonial history. The afternoon offers a gentle introduction, giving you time to acclimate to the altitude and soak in Cusco’s lively atmosphere.

Day 2: Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu

This day is a highlight, starting with a visit to Pisac’s handicraft market—a great spot for authentic souvenirs—followed by exploring the Inca ruins at Pisac and Ollantaytambo. This area remains one of the most picturesque parts of the Andes, and the buffet lunch at a top restaurant in Urubamba adds a delicious touch.

In the evening, you’ll ride the Inka Rail train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, the town at the foot of Machu Picchu. It’s an elegant way to relax and enjoy views of the river valley, with plenty of photo ops.

Day 3: Machu Picchu and Optional Climb

Most travelers will spend around two hours touring Machu Picchu with a guide, absorbing the mystery of this ancient site. The optional climb to Huaynapicchu is a real treat for those looking for a panoramic perspective of the ruins, but it requires booking well in advance due to limited spaces.

The return journey includes a bus ride back down to Aguas Calientes and a train back to Ollantaytambo or Poroy, concluding with a transfer to Cusco. A full day that leaves you thrilled but ready for a night in Cusco.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 4: From Cusco to La Paz

Early morning, you’ll fly from Cusco to La Paz. The flight itself offers spectacular views of the Andes. Upon arrival, your guide takes you on a tour of La Paz, including the mesmerizing Valley of the Moon, and a ride on the cable car system, which offers sweeping views over the city.

The day ends with a transfer to the bus station for the overnight trip to Uyuni, a 10-hour journey that’s part adventure, part endurance test. Travelers have noted the overnight bus as “long but worth it for the scenery,” so pack your patience and some snacks.

Day 5: Uyuni Salt Flats Exploration

Arriving early in Uyuni, you get a hearty breakfast before starting the full-day salt flat tour. Highlights include the iconic Train Cemetery, the Salt Hotel, and Incahuasi Island, famous for its giant cacti and otherworldly landscape.

This is where the tour’s surreal side shines—the salt flats stretch for miles, creating a mirror effect during rainy conditions that will stay with you. The tour concludes with a return bus trip to La Paz, where you spend another night on the bus.

Day 6: Return to Cusco

Arrival in La Paz early morning leads to a quick transfer to the airport for your flight back to Cusco. This flight marks the end of your whirlwind adventure, leaving you with a lifetime of memories and stunning photos.

The Practicalities: Transportation, Guides, and Value

All transportation—flights, buses, trains, and transfers—is included in the price, which helps reduce the logistical hassle and surprises. The small group size ensures that guides can give personalized attention and create a more intimate atmosphere.

You’ll appreciate the professional guidance, especially at Machu Picchu and the Salt Flats, where local guides provide historical context and safety tips. The entry fees are covered, so you won’t need to worry about additional costs once you’re on the tour.

The cost of $1,512 per person might seem steep at first glance, but when you factor in flights, entrance fees, accommodations, transportation, and guided tours, it offers good value—particularly for those who prefer a structured, all-inclusive experience rather than piecing everything together independently.

What We Think Could Be Improved

One aspect to consider is the long travel days, particularly the overnight bus to Uyuni. If you’re prone to travel fatigue, this might test your stamina. Also, the limited free time at some sites means you might not get to explore every corner in depth, but that’s often the trade-off for seeing so much in such a short period.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for active travelers who want to maximize their time and see the highlights of Peru and Bolivia without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s perfect for those who don’t mind early mornings, bus rides, and packed days in exchange for seeing iconic sights like Machu Picchu and the Uyuni Salt Flats.

Travelers seeking a balance of cultural insights, stunning landscapes, and guided convenience will find this tour very rewarding. If you’re a bit adventurous and crave authentic experiences with fellow travelers, this package is well-suited for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for travelers who dislike long bus rides?
The tour includes a 10-hour overnight bus trip from La Paz to Uyuni and return, so if long bus rides are a concern, this might be a challenge. However, many find the scenery worth the trip.

Are all entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for the attractions visited on the tour are covered, which simplifies your planning and budgeting.

Can I climb Huaynapicchu during this tour?
Yes, climbing Huaynapicchu is optional and can be booked three months in advance. It’s a three-hour climb without a guide, offering a spectacular view of Machu Picchu.

Do I need to book flights separately?
Flights from Cusco to La Paz and back are included. However, flights between Lima and Cusco are not included and must be booked separately.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely, the small group size makes it easy to meet other travelers. The tour offers a shared experience in some of South America’s most famous spots.

Are meals included besides breakfast and the buffet lunch in the Sacred Valley?
No, other meals are not included, so you’ll want to bring snacks or plan to dine at local restaurants during free time.

What’s the best time of year to take this tour?
While not specified, generally the dry season (May to October) is best for visiting salt flats and Machu Picchu, but check local weather conditions for up-to-date advice.

What kind of accommodations are provided?
You’ll stay in hotels in Cusco and Aguas Calientes, with two nights in Cusco hotels and one in Aguas Calientes. The quality isn’t specified but expect comfortable, well-located options.

This 6-day tour offers an exciting, well-rounded way to see some of South America’s most iconic landmarks, combining culture, history, and stunning landscapes. It’s geared toward travelers who want a guided, hassle-free experience and are prepared for some long travel days. If you want a taste of the Andes and the salt flats with all the logistics handled, this adventure is definitely worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby