5-Day: ||All Included|| Excursion to Cusco, MachuPichu & Humantay Lake

If you’re planning to visit Peru and want a well-organized, immersive experience that covers Cusco, the majestic Machu Picchu, and the breathtaking Humantay Lake, this 5-day all-inclusive tour might just be your best option. At $655 per person, it offers a balanced mix of guided sightseeing, comfortable accommodations, and genuine local flavor. The group size is limited to 15 people, which keeps things intimate and personal—a real plus when exploring such iconic sites.

What we love about this tour is how it combines organized logistics with authentic experiences — from visiting important archaeological sites to tasting traditional Andean cuisine. Plus, the tour includes many of the major highlights, like the Pisaq Archaeological Site and Ollantaytambo, without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. On the flip side, the tour involves some early mornings and a fair amount of walking, which might be tiring for those with limited mobility. This tour suits travelers who appreciate a structured experience but still want free time to explore on their own.

If you enjoy discovering historical sites with a knowledgeable guide, savoring local dishes, and witnessing some of Peru’s most stunning vistas, this tour might be a perfect match. It’s especially good if you’re looking for an all-in-one package that covers transportation, lodging, and tickets, making your trip more straightforward and less stressful.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Package: Includes transportation, hotels, guided tours, and some meals, simplifying logistics.
• Small Group Experience: Max 15 travelers for a more personal, engaging atmosphere.
• Diverse Highlights: From Cusco’s historic sites to Machu Picchu and Humantay Lake, you’ll see a wide variety of Peru’s treasures.
• Comfortable Accommodations: Stay in 3-star hotels that balance comfort with affordability.
• Authentic Flavors: Enjoy seven complimentary meals, including typical Andean cuisine.
• Early Starts & Walking: Be prepared for some early mornings and significant walking, especially during the Humantay Lake hike.

In-Depth Review of the 5-Day All-Inclusive Tour

The Logistics and First Impressions

Starting from Cusco Airport, your journey kicks off smoothly with a pickup from a representative who will transfer you to your hotel. The first day offers a relaxed start, giving you time to adjust to the altitude and settle in. Afternoon activities include a private guided tour of Cusco’s historic sites, like the Koricancha Temple, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, and PucaPucara. These sites are among the most significant in Inca history, and having a knowledgeable guide makes a world of difference in understanding their stories and significance.

What stands out here is the focus on culture. The guide’s responsible and punctual manner, as shared by a traveler named Antonio, is reassuring and makes the experience enjoyable. The sites are accessible with an emphasis on safety and comfort, which is important given the high-altitude setting.

Exploring the Sacred Valley

The second day is packed with visits to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, starting with Pisaq Archaeological Site. The guided tour here is approximately an hour, giving plenty of time to appreciate the intricate stonework and terraced landscapes. The buffet lunch in Urubamba is a highlight, offering a taste of authentic Andean dishes—an enjoyable way to connect with local flavors.

Next, the group visits Ollantaytambo, a town famous for its impressive Inca architecture and terraces. Key sights include the Temple of the Sun, The Intihuatana, and the Princess Baths. A highlight is learning about how these sites were both religious and strategic, reflecting Inca ingenuity.

This day showcases how the tour balances archaeological exploration with culture and a leisurely meal, making it an enriching experience for history buffs and food lovers alike.

Machu Picchu’s Majestic Wonder

Day three is the big one: visiting Machu Picchu. The journey begins with a scenic bus ride from Aguas Calientes to the site, where you’ll enter with tickets included in your package—though these are subject to availability, and you might find yourself on specific circuits depending on ticket sales. Your guide will spend about two hours explaining the site’s mysteries and marvels, giving you ample time to marvel at the well-preserved stonework, sacred plazas, and the iconic Intihuatana stone.

After touring, you’ll have time to relax and enjoy lunch in Aguas Calientes before catching the train back to Cusco. The train journey adds a scenic touch, giving you a chance to reflect on the day’s awe-inspiring sights. Many reviews emphasize how seamless and well-coordinated this part of the trip is, making it suitable even for first-time visitors.

The Highlight Hike: Humantay Lake

Day four is a real adventure, with an early morning departure to Humantay Lake. Starting at 4:00 am, this part of the tour requires some stamina and preparation. The drive takes you to Mollepata for breakfast, then onward to Soraypampa—the starting point of the hike. The one-and-a-half-hour trek to the lake is at a high elevation of 4,250 meters, and the route offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks and abundant flora and fauna. The lake itself, with its vivid turquoise waters, is a postcard-perfect scene.

While the hike is demanding, many travelers mention the breathtaking scenery as well worth the effort. After descending back to Soraypampa and enjoying a hearty lunch in Mollepata, you’ll return to Cusco by evening. This day is a favorite among adventurers and those eager to see the natural beauty of the Andes up close.

Farewell Day and Optional Experiences

The last day offers a relaxed morning with free time in Cusco. You can choose to unwind or indulge in an optional activity, such as a tour focused on Peruvian gastronomy or making Pisco Sours. It’s a nice way to wind down and soak in some local culture before heading home.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

The price of $655 is competitive considering the comprehensive nature of the trip—covering transportation, guided tours, entrance fees, accommodations, and meals. The inclusion of seven meals adds to the value, especially since food in Peru can be both delicious and affordable, and the tour provides authentic local dining experiences.

The small group size enhances the experience, making it easier to ask questions and engage with your guide. The three-star hotels strike a good balance between comfort and affordability, ensuring you rest well without luxury prices.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This trip is ideal for travelers who want an organized, worry-free way to see the main highlights of Cusco and the Sacred Valley, plus the adventure of hiking Humantay Lake. It’s perfect for those who value guided commentary and don’t mind early mornings or some physical activity. If you enjoy experiencing authentic local food and want a tour that balances sightseeing with free time, you’ll find this package very satisfying.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is transportation included?
  Yes, all transportation between major sites, hotels, and airports is included and arranged in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.

• Are Machu Picchu tickets guaranteed?
  Tickets are included but are subject to availability and are for specific circuits. If tickets aren’t available, a full refund is possible.

• What is the group size?
  The maximum group size is 15 travelers, which allows for a more intimate experience.

• Are meals included?
  Seven meals are included throughout the tour, with options for authentic Andean cuisine.

• Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
  The tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness, especially for the Humantay Lake hike, which involves high-altitude walking.

• How many days does the tour last?
  It lasts five days, approximately, covering everything from Cusco’s sites to Machu Picchu and Humantay Lake.

• What kind of accommodations are provided?
  You’ll stay in comfortable three-star hotels, balancing comfort and cost-effectiveness.

• What should I bring for the Humantay Lake hike?
  Bring warm clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, water, sunscreen, and a hat. Be prepared for cold temperatures at high altitude.

• Can I customize or add extra activities?
  Optional activities like the Peruvian gastronomy tour are available on free days but should be booked separately.

• Is the tour suitable for kids or elderly?
  While suitable for most, the high-altitude hikes and early mornings may pose challenges for very young children or seniors with mobility issues.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day all-inclusive tour offers a balanced combination of guided sightseeing, culture, and adventure. It handles the logistics so you can focus on enjoying the stunning scenery, important archaeological sites, and delicious food. The small group size and responsible guides contribute to a more personalized, memorable experience.

If you’re after a well-organized journey that covers Peru’s highlights without sacrificing authenticity or comfort, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a comprehensive experience with the added benefit of free time to explore on their own.

For those seeking a hassle-free way to see Machu Picchu and beyond, while also enjoying authentic local flavors and stunning vistas, this 5-day package checks many boxes. Just be ready for some early mornings and a bit of walking—adventure awaits!