Category: Cusco

Folkloric dance show in Cusco. If you're visiting Cusco and want to see folkloric dances, it's a given. The Qosqo Native Art Center has performances Monday through Sunday, where you can enjoy Andean music and dance. Qosqo Native Art Center They have performances every day from 7:00 pm to 8:15 pm. The dance show always starts at the same time, so it's recommended to arrive a few minutes early to get a better spot and enjoy the dance and music. The Qosqo Native Art Center is located in the center of Cusco at 872 Sol Avenue in Cusco. Its cozy space makes for a unique experience. You can enjoy dances such as: Saqra, Contradanza, Tarpuy o Siembra, Qanchi, Paras, Qara Chunchu, Kachampa, Checa Marka, Wallaras, Wallatas Salqaqocha, Toro baile, Pacasito, Alqamari, Taruka Chaquy, Qocha Runas, Canas Carnival, Old Waylarsh, Sarge, Anti Tusuy, Qatqa Carnival, Cusco Carnival, Arrow Dance and much more. To enter you must have the Cusco tourist ticket, which additionally allows you to visit several tourist attractions in Cusco. This ticket is purchased on Av. sun 103.

Intipunku or Sun Gate of Machu Picchu. The Intipunku archaeological site, also known as the Sun Gate, is an archaeological site located in Peru, near Machu Picchu. This place is famous for being one of the entry points to Machu Picchu and is a sacred place for the Incas. Here is some relevant information about Intipunku: Machu Picchu Sun Gate   1. Location: • It is located at the end of the Inca Trail, approximately 2,740 meters above sea level. • It is approximately 2-3 kilometers from Machu Picchu and offers spectacular views of the valley and the citadel. 2. Meaning: • The name "Intipunku" translates as "Sun Gate" in Quechua, and it plays an important role in Andean traditions. The sun is believed to have great importance in Inca culture. 3. Function: • It was used as a ceremonial and surveillance point. From here, travelers could first observe Machu Picchu upon arriving from the Inca Trail. • It was a place where the Incas could pay homage to the sun. 4. Architecture: • Intipunku is made up of large carved stones, with a stone gateway framing the impressive landscape seen from there. 5. Access: • To reach Intipunku, you generally need to hike the Inca Trail, which is a multi-day trek that culminates at Machu Picchu. • Alternatively, you can access Intipunku by hiking from Machu Picchu, which takes about 1-2 hours. Tips for Visiting: • Best time to visit: The best time to visit is during the dry season (May to October), as the weather is more favorable for hiking. • Be prepared: Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, a hat, snacks, hiking shoes, and personal documents. • Acclimatization: If you are not used to the altitude, be sure to acclimatize properly in Cusco or the Sacred

Private Transfer from Cusco to Maras. The town of Maras is approximately 1 hour from Cusco, and we offer private transportation from Cusco to Maras, located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. We offer daily departures by car, minivan, van, and sprinter. Ideal for solo travelers, couples, families, or groups of friends. Maras is home to the Maras Salt Mine (a beautiful tourist attraction) and various country houses. Cusco to Maras Transportation Include Pickup from your hotel in Cusco Transportation and driver Drop-off in Maras (specify address) Not Included Travel insurance and other services not mentioned. Important: If you are only traveling to the tourist attraction (Maras Salt Mine), the transportation will wait for you for approximately 1 hour before returning to Cusco. You must specify this when making your reservation. If you wish to make any additional stops along the way, just let us know. Cusco to Maras

Train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. The Ollantaytambo train station is approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes from downtown Cusco and 1 hour and 55 minutes from Cusco Airport. PeruRail and IncaRail trains depart from this station. Both companies have daily round-trip departures at different times and with different types of services. Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes To get to the Ollantaytambo train station, there are several options by private and/or shared car. The best option is to request a private transfer from Cusco to Ollantaytambo train station, as the transfer is direct and you will arrive at the station on time. Request your private transfer from Cusco to Ollantaytambo train station or vice versa! Important: You must arrive at the train station 40 minutes early, as trains depart on time; there is NO waiting. The train ride from Ollantaytambo Station to Aguas Calientes Station takes 1 hour and 40 minutes. The Aguas Calientes Station is located in Machu Picchu Town. To reach the entrance gate to Machu Picchu, you have two options. The first option is to walk from Machu Picchu Town to the entrance gate. It takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending largely on your physical condition. The entire route is fully signposted. The second option is to purchase a Bus Consettur ticket. The trip takes 30 minutes. The round-trip ticket costs $24. Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes Trains PeruRail and IncaRail trains depart from this station, and here's their service information: PeruRail: Offers local train service for Peruvians (24 soles), the Expedition tourist train (approximately $160, which may vary), the Vistadome tourist train (approximately $190, which may vary), and the Vistadome Observatory tourist train (approximately $240, which may vary). IncaRail: Voyager tourist train (approximately $140, which may vary), the 360º tourist train (approximately $200, which may vary),

How to get to Choquequirao. Choquequirao is the other lost Inca city and it is much bigger than the Inca city of Machu Picchu. And to get to Choquequirao, you will have to hike as there are no roads that go directly to the place. Choquequirao Here are some tips to get to Choquequirao. 1. How to get to Cachora: Cachora is located in the province of Abancay and it is the main point to go to Choquequirao. And to get to Cachora from Cusco take a bus from Cusco Bus Terminal to Abancay and the trip is about 4 to 5 hours. Several bus companies operate on this route and have daily departures. Private transportation: Renting a private car or van from Cusco to Cachora is faster and more comfortable. And you can arrange your private transfer from Cusco through travel agencies for more security. 2. Cachora to Choquequirao Hike (typically 4 days/3 nights round trip): Day 1: Cachora to Chiquisca (or Santa Rosa): Steep descent from Cachora to the Apurimac River. Cross the river (via bridge or cable car, depending on conditions) and begin a challenging climb to Chiquisca or Santa Rosa, common camping spots. Day 2: Chiquisca/Santa Rosa to Choquequirao: Another challenging uphill hike to Choquequirao. Explore the ruins and camp. Day 3 and 4: Choquequirao to Cachora: Same itinerary only return, including the climb from the Apurimac River back to Cachora. 3. Alternative starting points: Capuliyoc: Adds a day to the hike, offering panoramic views and a possible condor sighting. San Pedro de Cachora: Longer and more challenging route. Yanama: Longer, high-altitude hike that can be combined with a visit to Vilcabamba. Recommendations: • Visiting Choquequirao requires good physical condition. It is not recommended for people who suffer from back pain, walking problems and/or respiratory problems.

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the most famous and sought-after treks in the world. It is a challenging but incredibly rewarding experience, taking you through stunning Andean landscapes, cloud forests and eventually to the magnificent lost city of the Incas Machu Picchu. Inca Trail Key information: Permits needed: Permits are strictly limited to 500 per day (including guides and porters), so booking well in advance (5-6 months, especially for peak season) is essential. Permits are non-transferable and are linked to your passport details. Trekking agencies: You must trek with a licensed tour operator. They take care of permits, logistics (porters, food, equipment) and all organisation for your trip to Machu Picchu. Trekking options: Classic Inca Trail (4 days/3 nights) – the most popular option, covering 43km (26 miles). Short Inca Trail (2 days/1 night): A shorter version, starting at km 104 of the railway, ideal for those short on time. Longer Inca Trail Options (5-7 days): These less common treks combine the Classic Inca Trail with other trails such as Salkantay or Lares, offering more remote and challenging experiences. Best time to trek: The dry season (May to September) offers the best weather conditions, but is also the busiest time. The rainy season (October to April) is wetter and can be more challenging, but is less crowded. The trail is closed in February for maintenance. Altitude: The highest point on the Classic Inca Trail is Dead Woman's Pass (4,215 m/13,829 ft). It is highly recommended to acclimatize to the altitude in Cusco for a few days before the trek. What to expect: Challenging hike: The Inca Trail is a physically demanding hike with steep ascents and descents, uneven terrain, and high altitude. A good level of fitness is required. Spectacular scenery: The trail passes through diverse

How to plan your trip to Machu Picchu. One of the most frequently asked questions by many travelers is how to plan a trip to Cusco and Machu Picchu and here we provide the steps you must follow to travel to one of the 7 wonders of the world. Trip to Machu Picchu 1. Define your Budget and Travel Style: • Economic: Hostels, public transportation, food in local markets and restaurants. • Medium: 3-star hotels, group tours, combination of public and private transportation. • Luxury: 4 or 5-star hotels, private tours, private transportation in Cusco, meals in high-end restaurants. 2. Choose the Best Time to Travel: • Dry Season (May – September): Ideal weather for hiking, sunny days and cold nights. Greater influx of tourists and higher prices. • Rainy Season (October – April): Fewer tourists, lower prices, but possibility of rain that can affect visits. The Inca Trail is closed in February. 3. Book your Machu Picchu Entrance Tickets in Advance: • It is essential to book your entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 2 months in advance, especially in high season, as places are limited. You can buy them online through the official Peruvian government website or through our travel agency. • Decide whether you want to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. These require a separate ticket and sell out quickly. 4. Decide How to Get to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town): • Train: The most common and comfortable option from Ollantaytambo or Poroy (near Cusco). Book in advance. • Inca Trail: A multi-day trekking experience that requires special permits and reservations well in advance (6-8 months). • Other Trekking Routes: There are alternatives such as the Salkantay Trek or the Inca Jungle Trek. 5. Book your accommodation in Aguas Calientes or Cusco: • Aguas Calientes offers

Private transfer from Cusco to the Sacred Valley of the Incas round trip. You are traveling to Cusco and need private transportation from Cusco / Cusco Airport to the Sacred Valley (Pisac, Calca, Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, Maras) we are your best option, we have the ideal private transportation service for solo travelers, families, friends and couples. Transportation from Cusco to the Sacred Valley Our service from Cusco to the Sacred Valley of the Incas and vice versa is private. In the Sacred Valley of the Incas you can enjoy beautiful landscapes and on this route there are currently a large number of hotels / airbnb / lodge that are ideal for travelers who want more tranquility and to be out of the city. In the Sacred Valley of the Incas you will find the following hotels: Tierra Viva Sacred Valley, Ava Sacred Valley Spot, Sky Dome Peru, Aranwa Sacred Valley, Casa Andina Premium Sacred Valley, Hotel Amaru Valle, Sonesta Posada del Inca Yucay, Hotel Sueños del Valle, Hanaq Hoste Sacred Valley, Hotel San Agustin Urubamba & Spa, Taypikala Sacred Valley Deluxe, Tambo del Inka Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba, Rio Sagrado Belmond Hotel, Casona de Yucay, Hotel Tierra Inka Sacred Valley, Pachamama Ecolodge, Quinta Eco Inn Urubamba, Las Chullpas Eco Lodge, Las portadas Ollantaytambo, El Albergue Ollantaytambo, Tika Wasi Ollanta, Qorisonqo Inn Ollantaytambo, Apu Lodge, Vertical Sky Luxury Suites, Sol Mirando Boutique Hotel, Pachamama Ecolodge and a large number of accommodations where you can stay overnight. In order to request your transfer you must indicate: • Full names • Pick up in Cusco, date and time of pick up • Drop off in Sacred Valley of the Incas (indicate address) • For the return, indicate date and time of pick up. Include Mobility and Driver Does not include

Cusco Airport Taxi. Our travel agency also offers taxi service from Cusco Airport to Hotel in Cusco or Sacred Valley of the Incas (Pisac, Calca, Urubamba or Ollantaytambo), or from Cusco Airport to the train station (San Pedro, Poroy or Ollataytambo). Our taxi service is private and available for all flight times, you can also request round trip service. Cusco Airport We have cars, trucks, vans and sprinters. Private tourist transportation service from Cusco Airport, daily departures. In order to request your transfer you must indicate: • Full names • Pick-up date and time • Airline name and flight number • Drop off in Cusco or Sacred Valley of the Incas (Indicate address) Include Mobility and Driver Does not include Travel insurance and other services not mentioned. Important: If your destination is the Sacred Valley of the Incas and you want to make stops along the way, it is also possible, you just have to indicate this when making your reservation. Cusco Airport Taxi Our taxi service is private and each vehicle is monitored during the trip.