Hello! Click on one of our members below to chat on Whatsapp
Cusco, the navel of the world and historical capital of South America. It is a wonderful vacation destination and many visitors come every year to enjoy what it has to offer. It provides so much to holiday goers from learning all about the history of the Incas culture. Enjoy the incredible Andean landscapes to wonderful architecture and excellent gastronomy.
You might be thinking of visiting yourself or are already putting together your itinerary. Whatever the case, you are likely finding it difficult to decide what to do with your time here. Well, wonder no more. Here, we have come up with the best day trips from Cusco. This article will help you gather all the information you need to decide what to put on your to do list.
City Tour
Cusco, with its special beauty and charm is considered the archeological capital of South America and a cultural legacy of humanity. This half day city tour takes you to the majestic Qoricancha. Considered the most important example of the change from Incan architecture to Spanish colonial architecture. You will also visit the four most important archeological sites in the hills above Cusco. These sites are essential in understanding the importance of Cusco during the Inca Empire.
Sacred Valley Tour
The valley between Pisac and Ollantaytambo is known as the Sacred Valley of the Incas. On this day tour, we will drive through the mountains of the Sacred Valley. Visit the archeological sites of Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Moray and the Maras Salt Mines. All which played a key role in Inca culture and history. The Valley has a milder climate and is at a lower altitude than Cusco. You will see a succession of picturesque villages, ancient Incan terraces and important archeological sites.
No other travel agency besides Orange Nation Peru visits all of these sites in their Sacred Valley Tour!
Machu Picchu by Train
Orange Nation Peru gives you an unmatched and mesmerizing panoramic train journey. Pass through the Vilcanota River Canyon. Leaving the Inca town of Ollantaytambo, travel through sub-tropical jungle, nearing the Amazon as you approach Aguas Calientes. From Aguas Calientes you take the shuttle up to the archeological wonder, the Citadel of Machu Picchu! Take your time exploring the majestic Machu Picchu. The Inca will provide many stories and feel the thriving culture of the people who once resided there.
1 Day Inca Trail
Hike the short Inca Trail and visit Machu Picchu Citadel all in one day. The Inca Trail is full of Inca ruins, stunning mountain views, lush vegetation and extraordinary ecological varieties. Walk through the Machu Picchu National Park to the Sun Gate with your first unforgettable views of Machu Picchu. Upon arriving to Machu Picchu, receive a private guided tour. Visit all the hidden corners of the Inca monument. ***It is important for potential trekkers for the 1 Day Inca Trail to understand that you are doing the same trail as the 2 Day Inca Trail, just quicker. Trekkers need to be in moderate to excellent physical condition to arrive at Machu Picchu Citadel in time for the tour. If you think the trek may be too strenuous, book the 2 day Inca Trail which arrives to Machu Picchu.
Rainbow Mountain
The stunning Rainbow Mountain is today one of the most visited places in Peru and is something not to be missed. Travel from Cusco and take a short hike through the beautiful Andes. Rainbow Mountain trek offers opportunities to see a range of wildlife including soaring eagles and caracara falcons. The colourful sandstone mountains are very different from any other landscape you may visit in Peru. Enjoy the snow capped peaks, herds of alpaca, glaciers and birds of prey, all set within an incredibly colourful mountain range.
Rainbow Mountain and 7 Lakes in Ausangate
The Rainbow Mountain and 7 Lakes in Ausangate Trek features some spectacular views and sights. Trek to the Rainbow Mountain and be amazed by the natural colors of the sandstone mountains. Later trek further to the Red Valley. Camp overnight under the stars. Visit seven colorful lakes, most of green and blue surrounded by glaciers and high mountain peaks. To finish take a soak at the hot springs where you can relax surrounded by snow capped peaks.
Chinchero, Moray and Salt Mines Tour
Take this Orange Nation Peru half day tour to the ancient town of Chinchero where you will discover the colonial church, local market with the local weavers and Inca ruins, continue onto the Green House of the Inca, Moray and see the circular terracing, also the super impressive Salt mines at Maras all in the magnificent Andean mountains a short drive from Cusco city.
Joining a Cusco trip with an experienced guide is a great way to explore some of Peru’s most majestic ruins, peek into local communities, and discover the best hiking routes.
Let’s take a look at some of the top multi day tours from Cusco.
Discover why thousands of people around the world trust us to explore the best of Peru.
Couples
Trip to Rainbow mountain. First to the mountain thanks to Yair’s expert driving and special thanks to Cristian for being my guide. Highly recommend!
Written July 2, 2025
Family
We had an incredible experience hiking the Inca Trail with Ray as our guide. Ray was amazing. He was super knowledgeable about the history of the Incas, and he brought that history to life. We visited three larger sites, and several smaller ones that we arrived at by foot deep in the Peruvian jungle. Ray's was an incredible, passionate, and experienced guide, and also just a great person we are lucky to have met. I also have to mention Moses, our porter who made an amazing lunch and hiked it up to our resting spot 2000 ft above the Urambamba River to Wiñaywayna.
Written July 4, 2025
Family
Did the short inca trail through sam travel and it was an unforgettable experience. Hiking from the train to the Sun Gate with its beutiful views of macchu piccu was incredible. Our guide, Ray, was extremely knowledgeable, passionate, and always positive. At every location and along the way he had fascinating information to share and no question went unanswered.
Written July 4, 2025
Family
We had a great experience with our guide Cristian during our visit to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. He shared clear and detailed explanations, with a fascinating historical narrative that helped us truly connect with the places we explored. I learned so much thanks to him. The atmosphere was also really positive and friendly throughout the tour. Highly recommended!
Written June 26, 2025