Cusco is a city in the Andes of Peru, known for its extensive historical and cultural legacy, the famous Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, its incredible archaeological sites, and mountains. Cusco offers unique and unforgettable experiences, from Inca history in its archaeological centers to the process of religious syncretism in its temples, streets, and festivities with the arrival of the Spanish. Join me in discovering the one-day routes and hikes you can undertake in this magical city.
Day Hikes in Cusco
Humantay Lagoon
Peru is famous for its countless mountains and is a place where nature and the past come together for the observer’s delight. It’s time to describe one of the best gems we have in Cusco: the famous Humantay Lagoon, located at 4,200 meters (13,780 feet). It is situated between two snow-capped mountains, “Salkantay and Humantay,” and is an imposing emerald-colored lagoon surrounded by a white glacier that will undoubtedly dazzle you.
I’m sure some friend or acquaintance has posted a photo on their social media with the backdrop of Humantay Lagoon; it’s a classic to travel to Cusco and visit one of our most marvelous natural treasures. I’ll tell you more about the itinerary to reach this fantastic place.
I had always heard and seen photos on social media about Humantay Lagoon, and not long ago, I had the opportunity to visit this fantastic place. However, no one told me what I needed to know before starting the route, and I couldn’t properly research before traveling (in my defense, I can say that I took that trip because I was in love with a guy who liked trekking). However, I’ll show you the itinerary, route, and first-hand tips to make your experience the most rewarding and unique.

Itinerary
- Day 1 – Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Sky Camp – Humantay Lagoon
- You’ll start your day at 4:00 am with the pick-up from your hotel and a journey to Mollepata for breakfast.
- Continue to Soraypampa, where you can be delighted by the wonderful natural scenery. Here, we’ll begin the journey to Humantay Lagoon.
- You’ll reach Humantay Lagoon and can enjoy the place and take some photos.
- You’ll return to Soraypampa for lunch in the afternoon at our exclusive Sky Camp.
- You’ll end your day by returning to Cusco, and we’ll drop you off at your hotel by 6:30 p.m.
Rainbow Mountain
Cusco is one of the most incredible places for hikes; undoubtedly, Rainbow Mountain agrees. Located 100 km from the city, at an altitude of 5,100 m (16,732 feet), it is situated between the districts of Cusipata in the province of Quispicanchi, Pitumarca, and Canchis. This mountain is on the way to the majestic Ausangate snow-capped mountain near the city of Cusco, where you can find one of the most stunning natural landscapes imaginable.
The Rainbow Mountain, also known as the Seven-Color Mountain or Vinicunca, is the perfect option if you are looking for an exciting day outside the city because it will challenge you and reward you with the most fantastic scenery.

Itinerary
- Day 1 – Cusco – Cusipata – Llacto – Rainbow Mountain
- We will pick you up early to start our adventure. Along the way, we’ll stop for breakfast to energize ourselves.
- Then, we’ll continue the journey to the starting point of our hike.
- You’ll hike for an hour and a half through beautiful landscapes, observing Andean wildlife as you advance along the challenging trail to Rainbow Mountain. Once at the viewpoint, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the 360° view and take memorable photos.
- Afterward, we’ll descend for an hour to the hike’s starting point and then head to a restaurant for lunch.
- The day will end with a return to Cusco, and we’ll bid farewell at your accommodation.
Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain
If you prefer taking your time during a hike, dislike crowded places, and find peace in exploring trails with the sounds of animals and nature, then Palccoyo is perfect for you. Unlike other mountains, here you can savor unique views and the beautiful colors of the mountain calmly and fervently. You can also document audiovisual material at your own pace, as Palccoyo is not a route with large crowds.
During the journey, you will visit Checacupe, known for its three bridges: Inca, colonial, and republican. A mere hour and a half away, you will witness the three famous colored mountains of Palccoyo, situated at 4,900 meters, allowing you to admire the Ausangate snow-capped mountain, considered the highest and most important in Cusco. Feel the breeze caress you, connect your mind with the energy of nature and relax as you marvel at this incredible natural creation. Last but not least, the trekking route revalues the customs, traditions, and ways of life surrounding this mountain.

Itinerary
- Cusco – Checacupe – Palccoyo Seven-Color Mountain – Stone Forest
- We will pick you up early to start our adventure.
- Along the way, we’ll make a stop for breakfast.
- You’ll hike for an hour and a half along the trail to Rainbow Mountain, where you can take memorable photos.
- Then, you’ll descend to the hike’s starting point, and transportation will take you for lunch.
- Finally, you’ll return to the city of Cusco, and your day will end with the return to your accommodation.
- Also, please note that you would have covered 7 km / 4.35 miles in this magical adventure.
Tour of 7 lakes of Ausagante
The Ausangate tour is one of the most beautiful routes in the entire Vilcanota Mountain Range, where you will witness the imposing Ausangate, one of Peru’s five highest snow-capped peaks. You will have the opportunity to connect with the purest of nature and contemplate a beautiful place in the Cusco Andes, surrounded by lakes with different shades.
If you’re considering living a unique experience in the Andes, the 1-day Ausangate Tour is ideal. This tour takes place in one of Cusco’s most imposing snow-capped mountains, the great “Ausangate.” It’s important to know that here, you can connect with the purest of nature and contemplate a beautiful place surrounded by lakes of different hues, a discovery reserved for the most intrepid travelers.

Itinerary
Cusco | Ccatca – Pacchanta – Comercocha – Azulcocha – Pacchanta
- This incredible adventure begins early, heading to Cattca, where you will visit picturesque villages and squares.
- Later, you will arrive at the Pacchanta community, be welcomed by a local family, and enjoy a nutritious breakfast.
- During the journey, you’ll enjoy incredible views and the immense glacier of the imposing Ausangate, which is 6,384 meters high.
- You’ll start an ascent to visit the first lake of the circuit, known as Comercocha, meaning “Green Lake.”
- Continuing the journey, you’ll pass by the lakes of Patachocha, Azulcocha, China, and Otorongo.
- Then, you’ll cover approximately 15 km to return to the community of Pacchanta, where you’ll enjoy lunch.
- If our bodies desire, we can immerse ourselves in the thermal waters for a relaxing bath before returning to Cusco, concluding this unparalleled experience.
Waqrapukara
We present Waqrapukara, the incredible pre-Inca construction in the Apurímac canyon, to all lovers of off-the-beaten-path sites. It is an archaeological site with unique natural formations surrounded by crystal-clear lagoons.
Waqrapukara is about 4,300 meters above sea level, offering visitors a unique experience combining historical richness with natural majesty. This ancient archaeological site reveals an astonishing construction system that integrates seamlessly with the mountainous environment.
Undoubtedly, Waqrapukara has a unique and special architecture. The archaeological complex consists of terraces and ceremonial structures with precisely carved stones, showcasing deep engineering comprehension by its creators. Additionally, it is a testimony to the spiritual connection of the ancient civilization that inhabited these lands.

Itinerary
Cusco | Quiquijana – Pomacanchi – Waqrapukara – Cusco
- This adventure begins early. We’ll pick you up from your hotel around 4:00 a.m. and start a two-hour journey to the town of Quinquina, where we’ll have breakfast.
- Next, we’ll visit Pomacanchi Lagoon, where you can observe numerous meadows and cultivated fields.
- We’ll continue our journey for another hour through the road to the town of Santa Lucia, amidst unique and incredible landscapes.
- From the town, we’ll drive to the hike’s starting point to the magnificent Apurimac canyon.
- We’ll reach the viewpoint of Waqrapukara, where we can rest and take incredible photos of the fortress.
- You can explore the archaeological complex and be captivated by unique stories.
- Finally, we’ll return on the same path in private transport to Cusco.
Huchuy Qosqo Hike
If you love non-traditional hikes and enjoy exploring local communities while discovering new ways of life during your travels, we recommend the Huchuy Qosqo hike. Here, you can learn magnificent stories and witness impressive landscapes and views.
Huchuy Qosqo is located north of Cusco, and its name translates to “Little Cusco.” This archaeological site is stunning. Many historians initially referred to it as an administrative center near the Inca site of Pisac. Additionally, you can observe an Inca construction with highly detailed and delicate craftsmanship.

Itinerary
- Cusco | Qorao – Patabamba Community – Qoricocha Lagoon – Huchuy Qosqo – Lamay (Sacred Valley) – Cusco
- This adventure begins at 7:00 am with the pick-up of travelers from their accommodation. We will then head to the town of Qorao and later to Patabamba. Arriving at the Qoricocha Lagoon at 4,050 m, we will start the hike with beautiful Andean landscapes, ascending to the Apacheta Pass, the highest point of our trek at 4,200 m.
- Next, we’ll reach the Pukamarca community, walking through sections of the Qhapacñan, and arrive at the Inca site of Huchuyqosqo, “The Little Cusco,” situated in the Sacred Valley. You’ll also enjoy the scenery and Inca constructions. Finally, before returning to Cusco, we’ll have a break for your box lunch and descend through Lamay, located on the Urubamba River in the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
Pallay Punchu Hike
This mountain is the third rainbow mountain in Cusco, characterized by spectacular sharp ridges and less crowded, making it perfect for exploration and personal space enthusiasts. Palcoyo has gained popularity through social media, showcasing its incredible colors and patterns that dazzle the internet. Pallay Punchu of Apu Taqllo, translated in Quechua, means “woven poncho.” This mountain is known for its incredible colors and poncho-like shape, with sharp edges.

Itinerary
- Cusco – Cusipata – Sicuani – Layo – Pallay Punchu
- We will pick you up from your hotel early in the morning and embark on a two-hour journey to Cusipata for a revitalizing breakfast. Afterwards, we’ll head to Sicuani, where we can observe the blue Langui lagoon.
- We will then arrive in the town of Layo, starting a two-hour hike through incredible pastures, typical fauna, and flora of the area, reaching Pallay Punchi of Apu Tacllo. Here, you can climb the edges and ridges and feel like you’re on another planet. It’s important to note that Pallay Punchu reaches an altitude of 4,600 meters above sea level, so proper acclimatization is essential. Finally, we’ll return through Layo, stop for lunch in Sicuani, and ultimately return to Cusco.
Tips
- Arrive in Cusco two days in advance to acclimate to the altitude.
- Research and choose the one-day hike that suits you best.
- Stay hydrated and drink coca tea.
- Bring a portable charger and ensure your phone is fully charged.
- Carry some Peruvian coins for small expenses.
- Bring snacks like nuts, cookies, or others.
- Avoid consuming alcoholic beverages or cigarettes at least three days before the hike.
- Consider different clothing and footwear types for the journey and the hike.
- Enjoy the journey
Day Tours in Cusco
Day tours in Cusco are excursions or tourist activities that allow visitors to explore various points of interest in the Cusco region in just one day. Cusco, located in Peru, is known for being the Inca Empire’s ancient capital and hosting numerous archaeological and cultural sites. In this regard, I will now show you some options for half-day tours that you can do in Cusco.
Half-Day Cusco City Tour
The half-day Cusco City Tour is a fascinating adventure for all history and nature lovers. Join me in discovering this captivating journey through the centuries. And as if that weren’t enough! This experience is just a few hours away from the city of Cusco. In this tour, you can explore the city’s most important points and understand the Inca and colonial historical process; it is the perfect blend of cultural syncretism.
Itinerary
- Cusco | Cathedral – Qoricancha – Sacsayhuaman – Qenqo – Puca Pucara – Tambomachay
- Your exciting day will begin between 12:40 pm and 1:00 at the Cathedral in the Plaza de Armas, where you can enjoy the Cusco art school.
- Also, we will visit the Temple of the Sun “Qoricancha” to appreciate the architecture and stone constructions.
- Then, we will head outside the city center to visit the unique Inca archaeological sites of great importance in Inca culture: Sacsayhuayman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay. It is necessary to emphasize that each place is beautiful, magical, and spiritual for locals and travelers.

Sacred Valley of the Incas
The Sacred Valley of the Incas is a region in the Andes of Peru near Cusco. This valley was important to the Incas due to its fertile soil and strategic location. This tour is one of the most popular among travelers in Cusco, where you can learn more about the Inca civilization and the different archaeological sites built.
Itinerary
Cusco | Qorao – Sacred Valley Viewpoint – Pisac – Urubamba – Ollantaytambo – Chinchero – Cusco
This adventure begins between 7:20 and 7:50 am, and we will head to the magical town of Pisac to visit the market and learn more about crafts and textiles. Later, we will visit the “Sacred Valley Viewpoint” for breathtaking mountain views and then reach the archaeological site of Pisac to explore its agricultural terraces and culture. In the afternoon, we will explore the town of Ollantaytambo and its temples, terraces, and Inca history. Finally, we will stop in Chinchero, the town of textiles, and return to Cusco.

Sacred Valley of the Incas Deluxe
This tour is ideal for lovers of discovering Inca clues and vestiges. You should know that you will experience incredible landscapes and the most extraordinary Inca archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley of the Incas Deluxe.
Itinerary
Cusco | Chinchero – Moray – Maras Salt Mines – Urubamba – Ollantaytambo – Pisac – Pisac Craft Market – Cusco
- This adventure traces the paths and places inhabited by one of the greatest civilizations in Latin America, the Incas. We will start this experience at 7:00 am heading to Chinchero, a picturesque town where we will explore Inca walls and Andean textiles.
- Furthermore, we will continue to the famous Moray terraces. Here, you can observe the different agricultural techniques used by the Incas. And as if that weren’t enough! We will head to the Maras Salt Mines, which consist of 3,000 salt pools.
- Lunch awaits us in Urubamba, and we will continue visiting the archaeological sites of Ollantaytambo and Pisac. Finally, we return to Cusco.

Moray, Maras y Salineras
Moray is known for its impressive circular terraces built by the Incas. These terraces are arranged in various levels, and the depth of each level creates microclimates, leading to the theory that Moray may have been used as an agricultural laboratory to experiment with different crops in various climatic conditions. The unique design of Moray has led some to call it the “agricultural amphitheater” of the Incas.
Likewise, Maras is known for its salt pans, which are salt evaporation terraces dating back to the Inca period. This terrace complex is stunning, with thousands of salt pools fed by a natural salty spring in the mountain. The salt pans have been used since the Inca era and are maintained by local communities.

Itinerary
Cusco | Chinchero – Maras Salt Mines – Moray – Misminay – Huaypo Lagoon – Cusco
- The adventure begins at 8:00 am heading to Chinchero, where you will learn about textile art and Andean communities.
- Later, we will head to the Maras Salt Mines to appreciate the 3,000 salt pools filled with underground water.
- We will continue to Misminay for a gastronomic experience. Finally, on the way back to Cusco, you can observe the Huaypo Lagoon and cherish many memories.
Inca Bridge Q’eswachaka Hike
The Q’eswachaka Bridge is an ancient hanging bridge made of ichu grass ropes that crosses the Apurímac River in the Canas region near Cusco, Peru. This bridge is unique because it is reconstructed annually using traditional Inca techniques and is the last functioning Inca hanging bridge.
The Q’eswachaka Bridge is located near the town of Huinchiri, in the Canas province, Cusco region, at an altitude of approximately 3,700 meters above sea level. Visiting the Q’eswachaka Bridge and witnessing the annual reconstruction ceremony offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the living culture of Andean communities and appreciate the skill and tradition surrounding the construction of this iconic bridge.
Itinerary
- The journey starts at 4:00 am from Cusco to travel 3 hours to the Canas province and have breakfast there. We will then head to the town of Yanaoca until we reach Quehue at (3,792 m), and from there, we will continue to Q’eswachaka.
- You can visit and take many photos of the great Inca bridge of Q’eswachaka and feel the immensity of nature. Later, you will enjoy a boxed lunch.
- Finally, we will visit the Four Lakes Path and return to Cusco

Half-Day Walking Tour in Cusco
Cusco is the ancient capital of the Inca civilization and is a wonderful place to learn about culture and the magic of the Andes. In this tour, you will get to know the busiest parts of the city. This tour is ideal if you want a more intimate and personal connection with the locals. It’s important to note that Cusco hosts various archaeological sites and beautiful historic temples, cohesive neighborhoods, and traditions that transcend through time.
Itinerary
Cusco | San Pedro Traditional Market – Artisan Market – Qoricancha – San Blas – Sapantiana Colonial Aqueduct – Calle 7 Borreguitos
- The incredible part of this excursion is nestled in the historic center of the city of Cusco. The tour will take us to the famous and traditional San Pedro Market, built in 1925, where you can buy crafts and learn about local history. Additionally, the second stop is the warm Artisan Market.
- Next, we will head to the famous Qoricancha and the Convent of Santo Domingo, then proceed to the traditional neighborhood of San Blas and the colonial aqueduct of Sapantiana. To conclude, we will pass through the famous and Instagrammable Borreguitos Street.

Tips
- Dedicate the first few days in Cusco to acclimatize to the altitude. Rest, stay hydrated, and avoid intense physical exertion to prevent altitude sickness.
- Opt for comfortable and sturdy footwear as you explore cobbled streets and uneven terrain during your walk.
- Dress in lightweight layers, as the weather in Cusco can change throughout the day. Carry a light sweater and a waterproof jacket to adapt to weather variations.
- Protect your skin from intense UV rays with sunscreen and use a hat or cap to shield yourself from the sun.
- Carry a water bottle with you to stay hydrated at high altitudes. Refill it with drinkable water readily available in various places.
- Combat the dry air at high altitudes by applying lip balm and moisturizer to care for your skin.
- Simplify your purchases and tips by carrying the local currency, Peruvian soles.
- Seize the opportunity to talk to locals, who can suggest lesser-known but equally fascinating places to explore.

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