Best Day Excursions From Cusco

Although incredible, Cusco is not just a gateway to Machu Picchu. You can do several tours in the days that you stay in this beautiful city, be it days, weeks, or months looking for communities that live in the high mountains of the Andes in the same way that their ancestors did for centuries.

You can explore Inca constructions no less impressive than the famous lost citadel, hike through the high mountains so high that you can almost touch the clouds that never stop moving, or perhaps hike through lagoons and multicolored mountains.

You won’t have time to get bored because there are so many things to do around Cusco for all outdoor enthusiasts and lovers of architecture and culture that it is sometimes heartbreaking to choose what to do and what to miss.

All-day trips from Cusco have an advantage.

Since many travelers are concentrated in the area, they are all easily accessible by public transport, and you will have no problem finding a tour operator to take you to the attraction that interests you.

These are the essential destinations if you stay a few days in Cusco; all these activities are for one day and are perfect for acclimatizing.

HUMANTAY LAKE

Humantay Lake Full Day Tour

It is a winding road from the city of Cusco and a three-hour walk; you will arrive at the trail’s starting point towards the Humantay Lagoon, one of the most beautifully colored glacial lakes we have ever seen.

Although the hike to the Humantay Lagoon is not the most difficult in Peru, the altitude makes it quite challenging.

MOUNTAIN OF THE SEVEN COLORS (RAINBOW MOUNTAIN)

Rainbow Mountain Trek 2 Days

We are unsure if we have to feature this place, as everyone who heads to Cusco hopes to see the Mountain of Seven Colors (Also known as the Rainbow Mountain).

But you know what? After seeing the Mountain of Seven Colors and the Red Valley, we can only tell you to see it.

Despite the crowds, it is one of the most impressive places.

PISAC RUINS

Inca Ollantaytambo Inca Site

Located less than an hour from Cusco, you will find a small town, Pisac, known for the traditional market and the picturesque ruins on top of a hill overlooking the Urubamba Valley.

We hiked from the town at the foot of the Urubamba Valley to the Pisac Ruins and thoroughly enjoyed it.

SACRED VALLEY

A Complete Guide to the Cusco and Sacred Valley: Best Attractions and Activities

The famous Sacred Valley is a must-see when you are in Peru. The landscape is lovely, and you should also visit other fascinating ruins; Ollantaytambo is one of them.

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MORAY AND MARAS

Maras and Moray ATV Tour

Have you considered how the Incas could grow food even in other parts of Peru in unfavorable conditions?

You will find the answer in Moray, a unique agriculture laboratory. A short drive away are the salt mines of Maras, famous for their salt ponds.

Hundreds of visitors visit them daily, and you have probably seen pictures of them on Instagram.

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MACCHU PICCHU

Machu Picchu Trip

You do not need to stay overnight in Aguas Calientes to visit Machu Picchu. When you’re on a strict schedule, you can see the Lost Citadel in one day and base your stay in Cusco.