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8 days 7 nights tour Cusco-Puno Budget tour

(1 Review)

Tour details

Join us on a breathtaking full-day tour to Humantay Lake. We will travel through the stunning Andean landscapes to reach this hidden gem. The lake, at 4,200 meters above sea level, offers stunning views of turquoise waters and snow-capped peaks. Along the way, we will encounter local flora and fauna, making this journey even more special.

We will start early in the morning, departing from Cusco, and head toward Mollepata. From here, we will begin our hike to the lake. The trek will take approximately 1 to 1:30 hours, depending on the group’s pace. You can expect some steep sections, but the effort will be worth it when we reach the shores of Humantay Lake.

Once we arrive, we will take time to admire the beauty of the lake and its surroundings. The peaceful atmosphere will allow us to fully absorb the natural wonders around us. Our guide will share insights into the local history and the significance of Humantay Lake to the Andean people. After some time to relax and explore, we will begin our descent back to Mollepata.

We will enjoy a delicious, traditional lunch before returning to Cusco. The drive back will offer more opportunities to enjoy the stunning landscapes. At the end of the tour, we will return to Cusco with lasting memories and a greater appreciation for the region’s beauty.

Tour type:Adventure
SeasonAll year
Duration:8 Days / 7 Nights
Number of people10-17 people
Start/EndCusco / Cusco
Tour LanguageEnglish, Spanish
Destinations:Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, Puno, Lake Titicaca, Uros Floating Islands, Taquile Island, Amantani Island
TransportBus, Train, Boat, ATV

Place of departure

Cusco Airport

Departure time

According to the flight arrival time

Itinerary

Day 1Arrival in Cusco – Free Day for Acclimatization

A tour representative will pick you up from the airport and transfer you to the hotel in Cusco. You will have a free day to adjust to the altitude and explore the city of Cusco at your own pace. Walk through Plaza de Armas, admire the colonial architecture, or visit the local markets. A guided tour of the city is an extra option for those who want an introduction to Cusco’s history.

Travel Time: 45 minutes from the airport to the hotel in Cusco
Altitude: 3,399 meters above sea level

Difficulty Level: Easy

Day 2Cusco to Machu Picchu – Budget Tour by Car

At 6:20 AM, we’ll be picked up from your hotel to start a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley of the Incas. On the way, we will see small villages and watch the landscape change from high mountains to green tropical areas. A stop in Santa Teresa will offer us a well-deserved buffet lunch before continuing to Hidroeléctrica.

From there, a three-hour hike along the train tracks leads to Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival, the guide will assist with check-in at the hotel. Afterward, we will have a tasty dinner. Where important instructions for the Machu Picchu visit the following day will be provided.

Statics

Travel Distance: 210 km to Hidroeléctrica
Hike Distance: 10 km to Aguas Calientes
Altitude: 2,040 meters above sea level

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Day 3Machu Picchu Guided Tour – Return to Cusco

We wake up early to get ready and have breakfast at 5am. Then, we begin the walk to Machu Picchu, which takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Upon arrival at the Historic Sanctuary, enjoy a guided tour of the most important temples, terraces, and viewpoints.

After the tour, we will start our walk back from Machu Picchu to Hidroeléctrica, a 3 and a half-hour journey. There, we will board the bus back to Cusco. In the evening, we arrive at Plaza San Francisco in Cusco, where our Machu Picchu adventure concludes.

Statics

Hike Distance: 10 km return to Hidroeléctrica
Altitude: 2,430 meters above sea level at Machu Picchu

Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging

Day 4Rainbow Mountain Tour by ATV

We will start the day early at 4:00 AM, leaving Cusco and heading south toward Cusipata for a breakfast stop at 7:00AM. Then, continue to the ATV base camp, where you’ll get a quick briefing and practice session. Once ready, we are going to embark on an exciting ATV ride through beautiful landscapes towards Rainbow Mountain.

Afterward, return to the base camp by ATV, where we will stop for lunch before heading back to Cusco in the afternoon. The tour will end at the historic center of Cusco, where we’ll arrive by late afternoon around 5:00 pm.

In the evening, we need to prepare for the 9:00 pm bus pickup. This will take us to the bus terminal. From there, we will start our trip to Puno.

Statics:

Travel Distance: 140 km round trip
ATV Ride Distance: 10 km
Altitude: 5,200 meters above sea level

Difficulty Level: Challenging

Day 5Lake Titicaca Tour – Overnight Stay on Amantani Island

After being picked up from your hotel or terminal in Puno, head to the port and take a boat on Lake Titicaca. First, we’ll visit the Uros Floating Islands to learn about their history. Then, continue to Amantani Island, where local families will host us with meals and accommodation. We will spend the night with the locals on Amantani Island.

Travel Distance: 390 km to Puno
Boat Ride Distance: 25 km
Altitude: 3,812 meters above sea level
Difficulty Level: Moderate

Day 6Taquile Island – Return to Puno

After breakfast, we’ll head to Taquile Island, known for its pre-Inca ruins and skilled textile weavers. On arrival, enjoy a scenic hike to the main plaza. There, we’ll have free time to taste a traditional lunch with stunning views of the lake.

In the afternoon, we’ll return to Puno by boat and transfer to our hotel. You’ll have free time to explore the city before we board the bus to Cusco in the evening.

Statics

Boat Ride Distance: 15 km
Hike Distance: 2 km
Altitude: 3,950 meters above sea level

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Day 7Bus to Cusco – Free Afternoon

After arriving in Cusco at 6:00 am, you’ll have the entire day free. You can take this time to relax at your hotel or explore the city. We suggest visiting the Plaza de Armas or the Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun).

If you’re in the mood for more adventure, you can explore the nearby San Blas neighborhood, famous for its art galleries and cobblestone streets. Or simply rest and enjoy the atmosphere of this beautiful city.

Statics:

Travel Distance: 390 km to Cusco
Altitude: 3,399 meters above sea level

Difficulty Level: Easy

Day 8Departure from Cusco

A tour representative will pick you up from the hotel in Cusco and transfer you to the airport. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have free time to visit local markets or enjoy a last meal in the city. This marks the end of the 8 days tour, filled with adventure, culture, and incredible experiences.

Travel Time: 45 minutes to the airport
Altitude: 3,399 meters above sea level

Difficulty Level: Easy

The price includes

Airport Transfers (Arrival and departure in Cusco)
Tourist Bus Transportation (Cusco to Hidroeléctrica, Cusco to Puno, Puno to Cusco)
Accommodation (Hotels in Cusco, Aguas Calientes, Puno & Homestay on Amantani Island)
Entrance Fees (Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca islands)
Guided Tours (Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, Uros & Taquile Islands, other key sites)
ATV Ride (Rainbow Mountain tour)
Boat Transportation (Lake Titicaca tours)
Bilingual Tour Guide (Spanish and English)
Day 2: Includes:
Lunch during the trip
1 night hotel in Aguas Calientes
Dinner in Aguas Calientes
Day 3: Includes:
Breakfast at the hotel
Entrance to Machu Picchu (Circuit 2, subject to availability)
Day 4: Includes:
Breakfast
1 ATV with helmets
Buffet lunch
Day 5: Includes:
Pickup from hotel or terminal in Puno
Tourist boat for round-trip
Lunch
Entrance fees to the island
1 dinner
1 night host in family homes
Day 6: Includes:
Breakfast
Lunch
Bus from Puno to Cusco

Price does not include

International and Domestic Flights
Travel Insurance (Highly recommended)
Meals Not Mentioned (Lunches and dinners not specified in the itinerary)
Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain Ticket (Optional, must be booked in advance)
Entrance to the rainbow mountain 25 soles or 7 usd
International and local airfare
Drinks in meals are not included
Personal Expenses (Snacks, drinks, souvenirs, extra activities)
Tips for Guides, Drivers, and Staff
Entrance Fee to Aguas Calientes Hot Springs (Optional)
Extra Night in Cusco or Puno (Available upon request)

Complementary

Original Passport (Mandatory for Machu Picchu entry)
Small Backpack (30-40L recommended for daily essentials)
Comfortable Hiking Shoes (For trekking and uneven terrain)
Warm Clothes (Jackets, sweaters, gloves, and a hat for cold nights)
Lightweight Clothing (T-shirts, pants, and breathable layers for warm days)
Rain Jacket or Poncho (Weather can change quickly)
Sunscreen and Sunglasses (Essential for high-altitude sun exposure)
Hat or Cap (For sun protection)
Refillable Water Bottle (Stay hydrated at all times)
Personal Medications (Altitude sickness pills, pain relievers, and necessary prescriptions)
Basic Toiletries
Snacks (Nuts, energy bars, and fruit for extra energy)
Flashlight or Headlamp (Useful for early morning treks)
Cash in Peruvian Soles (Some places don’t accept credit cards)
Camera or Smartphone (For capturing unforgettable moments)
Power Bank (Limited charging options in remote areas)
Swimsuit and Towel (For hot springs in Aguas Calientes)
Earplugs and Eye Mask (For better rest during travel)
Insect Repellent (Especially for Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca)

Frequently Asked Questions

1What is the best time to take this tour?

The best time to visit is during the dry season. This runs from May to September. However, the tour operates year-round.

2Do we need to acclimatize before the tour?

We suggest staying in Cusco for one or two days before starting your activities. This is important for high-altitude places like Rainbow Mountain.

3What type of accommodation is included?

You will stay in budget hotels in Cusco, Aguas Calientes, and Puno. On Amantani Island, you will stay in a local homestay, experiencing traditional Andean life.

4Do we need to carry all our luggage during the tour?

We recommend leaving your large luggage at your hotel in Cusco and bringing only a small backpack with essentials for Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca.

5Is Wi-Fi available during the tour?

Wi-Fi is available in hotels in Cusco, Aguas Calientes, and Puno but may be slow. On Amantani Island, there is no internet or mobile signal.

6What happens if we get altitude sickness?

Guides carry first aid kits and oxygen. We recommend drinking coca tea, staying hydrated, and avoiding alcohol. You can also bring altitude sickness pills.

7Can we extend our stay in Puno or Cusco?

Yes, you can customize your itinerary and extend your stay before or after the tour. Let us know in advance to arrange accommodations and transportation.

1 Review

Sort By:RatingDate

Samantha R

Solo Traveller

This tour was beyond amazing! Every detail was well-organized, from the breathtaking views at Machu Picchu to the unforgettable night on Amantani Island.
The guides were knowledgeable and always made sure we were comfortable. The hike to Rainbow Mountain was challenging but absolutely worth it! Highly recommend it!

September 11, 2024

8 days 7 nights tour Cusco-Puno Budget tour

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