A 2-Day Journey from Cusco to Cocalmayo Thermal Baths & Coffee Plantations

If you’re looking to balance adventure with relaxation on your trip to Peru, this 2-day tour offers just that. Starting from Cusco, you’ll venture into the Sacred Valley region, with a scenic drive that crosses snowy passes and lush valleys. The highlight? The Cocalmayo Thermal Baths, renowned for their medicinal waters, and a fascinating visit to a local coffee plantation.

What we love about this experience is how it combines relaxation with cultural insight—so you can soak tired muscles in mineral-rich waters while also learning about Peru’s beloved coffee. Plus, the journey through diverse landscapes makes every mile worth it. A possible drawback? The long day of driving and activity-packed schedule may feel a bit rushed for those craving a slower pace. Still, it’s well-suited for travelers who want a taste of both nature’s healing properties and local agricultural traditions.

This tour is perfect for adventurers who enjoy scenic drives, relaxation in thermal waters, and coffee enthusiasts eager to see how their morning brew is made. If you’re short on time but want a mix of nature, culture, and relaxation, this experience could be just right.

Key Points

Relaxing thermal baths with medicinal waters and mountain views.
Cultural immersion through a detailed coffee plantation tour.
Scenic drive through the Sacred Valley and across the snowy Malaga pass.
Comfortable accommodations with private bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and hot water.
All-inclusive value covering transport, meals, entrance fees, and guided tours.
Timing flexibility with options to customize activities based on weather or group preferences.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the 2-Day Cusco: Cocalmayo Thermal Baths & Coffee Tour

This experience offers a balanced mix of relaxation, cultural insight, and scenic beauty—all within a manageable two-day itinerary. It’s designed for travelers who want to see more of Peru’s countryside without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

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Day 1: The Scenic Drive to Santa Teresa & Thermal Waters

Our adventure begins early—7:00 AM pickup from Cusco’s historic center. From there, we wind through the Sacred Valley, marveling at terraced fields and traditional villages. The highlight of the drive is crossing the Malaga pass, where snow-capped peaks glisten against a clear sky—a perfect reminder of Peru’s rugged majesty.

As we descend into the Convention Valley, lush vegetation surrounds us, a sign of the fertile land that sustains local communities. We pass through Santa María before reaching Santa Teresa around 12:30 PM, where comfortable accommodations await us.

After settling in, we enjoy a local lunch—a chance to taste authentic Peruvian cuisine. The afternoon is dedicated to visiting the Cocalmayo Thermal Baths, where we spend about two hours soaking in medicinal waters with spectacular mountain views next to the Vilcanota River. The waters are reputed for their healing properties, offering a perfect way to unwind after a long drive. One traveler enthused, “The thermal baths were the highlight—such a peaceful spot with breathtaking scenery.”

Post-soak, we return to our lodge for dinner and a restful night, preparing for the next day’s activities.

Day 2: Coffee Journey & Optional Zip Line Adventures

The second day kicks off at 7:00 AM with breakfast before heading to a local coffee plantation. This three-hour tour is a real treat for coffee lovers—learning about the process of coffee production, from seed to cup, and discovering the varieties grown by local farmers. It’s an eye-opening look into the effort and tradition behind your morning brew.

For those craving a bit more adrenaline, the tour offers an optional zip line or canopy experience, approximately three hours long. This activity is perfect for thrill-seekers and adds an exciting dimension to your Peruvian adventure.

In the late afternoon, we return to Cusco, arriving around 7:00 PM. It’s a full but fulfilling two days that blend relaxation, cultural learning, and a dash of adventure.

What’s Included and What to Consider

This tour offers excellent value for its all-inclusive package. The transportation is comfortable, with pickups from Cusco’s historic center included, ensuring a hassle-free start. Your accommodation is well-equipped, with private bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and hot water—important details that often make or break a multi-day trip. Meals—lunch, dinner, and breakfast—are part of the package, giving you a taste of local flavors without extra planning.

Entrance to the Cocalmayo thermal baths and the coffee tour are included, so you get to focus on enjoying the experience rather than worrying about additional costs. The tour is guided in Spanish and English, making it accessible for most travelers.

A note: it’s a non-refundable activity, so it’s best to confirm your booking early. Also, the order of activities might shift depending on weather or group needs, which is a practical consideration worth bearing in mind.

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The Experience Itself: What Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight the relaxing nature of the thermal baths as a major draw. One traveler wrote, “The waters were warm and soothing, and the views of the mountains made it even better.” The scenic drive through the Sacred Valley is often described as “beautiful and peaceful,” giving travelers a chance to appreciate Peru’s diverse landscapes.

The coffee tour receives praise for its educational value. Visitors enjoy learning about the entire process, from seed to brew, and often find themselves appreciating their morning coffee more after understanding its journey. One reviewer commented, “It was fascinating to see how much work goes into every cup—definitely a highlight for coffee lovers.”

The optional zip line adds a splash of adrenaline, appealing to those wanting a thrill after a relaxing soak. The experience provides a good balance—relaxation in the thermal waters, cultural insight at the coffee farm, and adventure on the zip line.

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Practical Tips from Travelers

Bring comfortable shoes, especially for walking at the thermal baths and the coffee plantation.
Pack swimwear, towels, and sunscreen—the thermal waters are outdoor and sun-exposed.
Consider bringing snacks and drinks for between activities.
Be prepared for varying weather conditions—layers, rain gear, and sun protection are recommended.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This 2-day experience suits travelers who want to escape the hustle of Cusco and enjoy a mix of nature, relaxation, and culture. It’s ideal for those who appreciate scenic drives and want to learn about Peruvian coffee production firsthand. If you’re looking for a comfortable, all-inclusive experience that blends wellbeing with cultural discovery, this tour ticks those boxes.

However, it may not be suitable for travelers seeking long, unstructured leisure or extensive outdoor adventure. The schedule is fairly packed, and some activities are weather-dependent, so flexibility is beneficial.

This Cusco 2-day tour to Cocalmayo Thermal Baths and a Coffee Plantation offers a well-rounded taste of Peruvian countryside—a combination of healing waters, cultural insight, and scenic beauty. It’s a smart choice for travelers short on time but hungry for authentic experiences beyond the city.

The value is clear: included transport, accommodations, meals, and guided tours make it an accessible and hassle-free way to enrich your Peru trip. Whether you’re soaking in the thermal waters with mountain vistas, learning the secrets behind your morning coffee, or trying out a zip line adventure, this tour promises moments that will resonate long after you leave.

In short, if you’re after a balanced, memorable escape that combines relaxation with cultural discovery, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes transport from Cusco to Santa Teresa and back, making the journey seamless and comfortable.

What kind of accommodations will I stay in?
You’ll stay in accommodations with private bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and hot water—comfortable enough to relax after a long day.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are part of the package, giving you a chance to enjoy local cuisine.

How long do I spend at the thermal baths?
You will have about 2 hours at the Cocalmayo thermal waters, plenty of time to soak and unwind.

Can I participate in the zip line?
Yes, zip lining is available as an optional activity, lasting around 3 hours.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, towels, sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hat, rain gear, snacks, and drinks are recommended.

Is there a guide available in English?
Yes, the tour is offered in both Spanish and English, ensuring clear explanations and assistance.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the experience can be enjoyable for families, especially those with older children who enjoy outdoor activities, check with the provider for specific age recommendations, particularly for the zip line.

This detailed review aims to give you everything you need to decide if this 2-day Cusco experience aligns with your travel style—combining scenic drives, cultural insights, and moments of pure relaxation in Peru’s stunning landscape.