Ollantaytambo ruins are one of the more popular Cusco day trips
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14 Best Cusco Day Trips from Epic Hikes to Villages and World Wonders

Cusco is, without a doubt, a highlight when visiting Peru. The Imperial City of the Inca Empire is now a beloved UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with stunning historical sites, fascinating museums, authentic markets, and traditions that are deeply connected to the Incas.

While many visit Cusco to appreciate the modern world wonder of Machu Picchu, there are endless and worthwhile Cusco day trips to experience.

Cusco sits at a staggering elevation of 11,152 Feet (3,400 m). The city is built in the towering Andes Mountains and offers day trips to the Sacred Valley and the breathtaking Inca site of Machu Picchu. From Cusco, hike to picturesque alpine lakes or see a mountain that looks like a Rainbow.

Some of the best day trips from Cusco are hidden-gem spots, like Maukallacta, or to a small church that is comparable to the Sistine Chapel at the Vatican.

Cusco has a budget-friendly public transportation system making it easy to explore all of these Cusco day trips. Additionally, numerous companies offer daily tours from Cusco. All of these day trips can be reached via a tour or independently.

This Cusco day trip guide includes the most popular day trips from Cusco, hidden gems, and how to visit each place.

Here are the best Cusco day trips that include epic hikes, peculiar Inca ruins, and more.

Table of Contents

1 | Machu Picchu The Most Popular Day Trip from Cusco

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Machu Picchu is the most popular day trip from Cusco Peru

Those traveling to Cusco will more than likely be planning a trip around visiting Machu Picchu, the most famous landmark in Peru. The Lost City was rediscovered in 1911 by Hiram Bingham III, and today thousands of visitors tour the Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu daily.

Machu Picchu is one of the seven modern-day wonders of the world. This sacred site is a popular place to visit, so the days of walking up and buying an entrance ticket are long gone. All entrance tickets to enter Machu Picchu must be purchased before arrival.

Within the last few years, the tickets to Machu Picchu have changed. Now, tickets must be purchased as Circuits. There are four main Circuits, with Circuit 2 showcasing a majority of the highlights of Machu Picchu. Here are the official circuit guides.

Basic Machu Picchu Circuit Entrance Fee for Foreigners: 152 soles ($41 USD) | Entrance times range from 6:00 – 14:00, with 15:00 being the last time to enter

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Incredible views of Machu Picchu and the Urubamba River from MachuPicchu Mountain

Machu Picchu has plenty of mysterious ruins to marvel at. There is also the possibility to climb the iconic Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. These steep hikes must also be arranged before entering Machu Picchu and are hard to include on a day trip from Cusco. There is only time to climb one of these mountains per visit.

Additionally, Huchuy Picchu Mountain is now a separate ticket. This site was once included in the standard ticket.

If looking to hike one of the onsite mountains, you’ll have to choose the circuit that corresponds with the mountain hiking route.

➤ Machu Picchu Mountain | Ticket Price: 200 Soles ($54 USD) | Includes Circuit 3 | Entrance Times: 7:00 – 8:00 / 9:00 – 10:00

➤ Wayna Picchu Mountain | Ticket Price: 200 Soles ($54 USD) | Includes Circuit 4 | Entrance Times: 7:00 – 8:00 / 8:00 – 9:00 / 9:00 – 10:00 / 10:00 – 11:00

➤ Huchuy Picchu Mountain | Ticket Price: 152 Soles ($41 USD) | Includes Circuit 4 | Entrance Times: 7:00 – 8:00 / 8:00 – 9:00 / 9:00 – 10:00 / 10:00 – 11:00 / 11:00 – 12:00

Machu Picchu sits along the banks of the Urubamba River and is accessible via the village of Aguas Calientes, or Machu Picchu Pueblo. All roads really do lead to Machu Picchu and travelers can reach the Inca Citadel by hiking the Classic Inca Trail, an alternative trekking route, or utilizing tours and various forms of transportation.

How To Visit Machu Picchu as a Day Trip from Cusco

Aguas Calientes is the gateway to Machu Pichhu
MachuPicchu Pueblo is also known as Aguas Calientes and sits below the Inca Citadel

While Machu Picchu can be reached via a day trip from Cusco Peru, there is so much to see and discover. The easiest way to day trip to Machu Picchu is to join an organized tour.

Machu Picchu Day Tours from Cusco

These are some of the most popular day tours to Machu Picchu.

This Full Day Tour to Machu Picchu is by Train and Includes a Private Guide

This Full Day Tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu Includes a Ticket to Climb Huayna Picchu

This Full Day Tour to Machu Picchu from Cusco takes care of all the logistics and train tickets

Cusco to Machu Picchu by Train

There are two Peruvian railways that reach Machu Picchu, Inca Railand PeruRail, but you’ll have to catch the early trains. Both rail companies offer multiple daily departures and range from moderate to luxury prices.

Remember, once in Machu Picchu Pueblo you’ll still need to arrange a bus or walk up to the entrance gate (around an hour and a half trek).

➜ Lots of day trips to Machu Picchu include train travel, like this one.

Cusco to Machu Picchu by Bus

There is also an option to reach Machu Picchu via a shared van, but the ride is at least 5 hours and requires a five-mile walk from the Hydroelectric Plant. Taking a collective is not recommended for those people day-tripping to Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu More Than a Day Trip

the Inca Road to Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate or Inti Punku
Inti Punku or the Sun Gate of Machu Picchu can only be accessed on the Inca Trail

Many travelers opt to trek to Machu Picchu. Many of the treks to Machu Picchu range from 3 – 5 days. The shortest trek to Machu Picchu is the Short Classic Inca Trail, which can be completed in two days. The most popular Machu Picchu trek is the Classic Inca Trail, which requires a guide and permit. The Class Inca Trail is a 4-day trek to the Sun Gate of Machu Picchu.

Some travelers sleep in Aguas Calientes for a night or two and spend more than one day in Machu Picchu, especially with the new circuit regulations. For a luxury experience, the Sanctuary Lodge Belmond Hotel sits right next to the entrance of Machu Picchu

Best Cusco Day Trips to the Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley is relatively close to Cusco, making it one of the most popular day trips. The Sacred Valley is definitely worth visiting and is dotted with stunning mountains, charming villages, Inca ruins, and remarkable hiking trails.

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Pisac village is an easy day trip from Cuzco

The most popular Cusco day trip is to book a full-day tour that highlights the top Sacred Valley attractions.

It is also possible to visit each Sacred Valley village as a day trip from Cusco since the Sacred Valley and Cusco are well connected by collectivos.

Those looking to explore all the treasures of the Sacred Valley may opt to sleep in popular villages like Pisac or Ollantaytambo which has the train station to Machu Picchu.

2 | Pisac Village

Pisac Peru is the closest Sacred Valley village to Cusco, making it one of the most popular day trips from the city.

This lovely village is known for the hilltop Pisac ruins and the daily Pisac artisan market. The small pueblo itself is a delight to stroll. There are plenty of excellent places to eat, including the local Abastos market which has numerous food stalls serving up authentic Peruvian dishes.

Pisac Plaza de Armas without the daily artisan market
Pisac Plaza de Armas now hosts a daily artisan market

The Pisac ruins or the Pisaq Archaeological Park are part of the Cusco Tourist Ticket.

Cusco Tourist Ticket for Pisac RuinsCostValid
Cusco Tourist Ticket CompleteS/ 130 ($35)10 Days
Cusco Tourist Ticket (Circuit 3)S/ 70 ($18.50)2 Days

There are two entrances to the Pisac ruins, with the back entrance out of town being the best way to access the park. The Pisac ruins are large and boast different sectors, terraces, and stunning views of the Urubamba Valley below.

The Pisac ruins will take at least 3 – 4 hours to tour. It’s possible to visit the Pisac ruins independently or hire a licensed guide on-site.

How To Day Trip to Pisac from Cusco

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The Pisac ruins boast stunning views, Inca terraces, and fascinating sites

Many visitors opt for a guided tour of Pisac. The next fastest way to reach Pisac is with a private taxi, and the fare should be agreed upon before entering the taxi.

The local collectivos to Pisac can be found on Puputi Street in Cusco near the Garcilaso Monument (roundabout). There are no buses that connect Cusco to Pisac, only the shared minivans.

🚐  Collectivo Cusco to Pisac Peru Logistics | Average Fare: 4 – 6 PEN ($1 – 1.50 USD) | Duration: 45 minutes | Depart: when the collectivo is full | Hours: 6:00 – 19:00

Spend More Than One Day in Pisac

Pisac oftentimes becomes a highlight for visitors touring the Sacred Valley. Besides the Pisac ruins and the daily market, Pisac has worthwhile hiking trails. The most popular half-day hike from Pisac is to the Kinsa Cocha Lakes.

There are tons of Pisac accommodation options from budget hostels to luxury haciendas. Many of the hotels are found in the center of town.

Browse all the Best Places to Stay in Pisac Peru

Pisac is a great place to spend a few days in Sacred Valley Peru.

3 | Maras Salt Mines & Moray Inca Ruins

The Moray Archaeological Park and the Maras Salt Mines can easily be combined to be one of the best Cusco day trips.

The Moray Archaeological Park has three very unique circular terraces. Hands down, the Moray Inca ruins are some of the most unique in Peru. These terraces are speculated to be experimental agricultural terraces, but there are plenty of resources that argue otherwise.

The Moray Inca ruins are part of the Cusco Tourist Ticket which can be purchased as a circuit ticket or a complete ticket (16 sites).

The Maras Salt Mines are built into the hillside and have been used since the time of the Incas. Although it’s not possible to walk along the terraces, there are plenty of viewpoints that make the trip worthwhile. The Maras Salt Mines are not part of the Cusco Tourist Ticket and have an entrance fee of 10 soles ($2.75 USD).

If visiting both sites independently, it’s possible to hike from the Maras Salt Mines to the Moray ruins. This is a full-day hike from Urubamba village with little shade coverage, so plan accordingly and start early.

How to Day Trip to Maras and Moray from Cusco

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The trail from Maras Villages to Moray is well-marked and beautiful

Maras and Moray are often combined in a day trip from Cusco. The most popular Maras and Moray tour is via ATV tour, although the noise can seem out of place in the serene valley.

There are some guided bike tours that connect Maras and Moray.

Those day-tripping from Cusco to Maras can catch a collective to the Maras Transit hub. At the transit hub, you’ll need to taxi to the Maras Village or directly to the Moray Inca ruins.

Those looking to hike to the Maras Salt Mines will start from Media Luna village, not far from Urubamba. The hike from Media Luna takes visitors to the back entrance of the Sacred Valley Salt Mines.

4 | Ollantaytambo Village

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Pinkulluna are free hillside ruins that offer incredible views of Ollantaytambo Peru

Ollantaytambo is one of the most picturesque mountain villages in Peru’s Sacred Valley. This small town boasts the hilltop Ollantaytambo ruins and has some of the best hikes in the Sacred Valley.

Ollantaytambo is the gateway village to reach Machu Picchu, but honestly, it stands on its own two feet as a must-see village in Peru. Ollantaytambo has a local market, delicious restaurants, and plenty of free Inca sites.

The main Ollantaytambo Archaeological Park is part of the Cusco Tourist Ticket. The impressive Temple of the Sun of Ollantaytambo has a mysterious megalithic stone and boasts a Water Temple. Besides the main Ollantaytambo ruins, there are the free Pinkuylluna ruins which were believed to be old grain storage containers for the Incas.

There are also the free Inca ruins of Quellorakay and the Choqana ruins located right next to the Urubamba River across the famous Inca Bridge.

How To Get to Ollantaytambo from Cusco

There are multiple Cusco day trips and tours to Ollantaytambo. There are also taxis that are expensive but will get you there fast. Some travelers may feel more comfortable in a private shuttle to Ollantaytambo.

Additionally, frequent trains connect Cusco to the main Ollantaytambo train station.

The collectivos from Cusco to Ollantaytambo depart consistently. Collectivos from Cusco can be direct to Ollantaytambo or may require a transfer once in Urubamba.

🚐 Cusco to Ollantaytambo Collectivos | Fare: 10 PEN($2.75) | Duration: 1 hour and 45 minutes | Catch the minivans on Av. Grau 510 | Depart when full and may require a transfer in Urubamba | Most collectivos from Urubamba to Ollantaytambo are 2 PEN and take 20 minutes

Spend More Than One Day in Ollantaytambo

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The out-and-back trail to the Pumamarca ruins from Ollantaytambo is spectacular

Ollantaytambo warrants more time than a day trip from Cusco. There is an incredible and challenging hike up to Inti Punku. The Sun Gate of Ollantaytambo follows along the Old Inca Quarry Trail and boasts spectacular views of Mount Veronica.

The half-day hike to the Pumamarca ruins is also fantastic. This site is said to be built by the Wari civilization and resembles the sacred animal of the Puma.

Ollantaytambo is close to Pachar which boasts the peculiar site of Ñaupa Iglesia and can be combined with a hike to the Perolniyoc Waterfall.

If you are adding hikes near Ollantaytambo to your itinerary, it’s best to spend around a week in the village.

The Best Places to Stay in Ollantaytambo Peru

5 | Sacred Valley Day Trip

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Chinchero is a popular stop on a day trip to the Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley is probably the most popular Cusco day trip after Machu Picchu. There are tons of tours from Cusco to the Sacred Valley.

Be mindful that Sacred Valley tours are full-day tours that typically start and end in Cusco.

An organized tour of the Sacred Valley is a great option if you only have limited time. Most full-day Sacred Valley tours focus on the main attractions between Pisac and Ollantaytambo and do not include Machu Picchu.

Those planning on visiting the many Inca Sites should plan on purchasing a Cusco Tourist Ticket. Most tour companies do not provide entrance fees to the Inca Sites.

Top-Rated Full Day Sacred Valley Tours from Cusco

The Ultimate Sacred Valley Tour: 1 Day of Inca History, Lifestyle, & Landscapes

Full-Day Sacred Valley Tour from Cusco

6 | Huchuy Qosqo Trek

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Huchuy Qosqo is worth the trek

Machu Picchu is by far the most famous Inca ruin in Peru, but there are tons of incredible Inca sites to explore in Peru. One of those hidden gem Inca sites in the Sacred Valley is Huchy Qosqo.

Huchuy Qosqo translates to “Little Cusco” and was the palace grounds of the powerful Inca Emperor Viracocha. The Huchuy Qosqo trek can be done as a day trip from Cusco or as part of a multi-day trek.

There are quite a few routes to reach Huchuy Qosqo, but the two easiest starting points for those planning a day trip are from either Lamay or Chinchero in the Sacred Valley. The Lamay trail is a steep out-and-back trail, while the Chinchero route starts from Chinchero and ends in Lamay.

The Huchuy Qosqo ruins require a small fee to enter, but you’ll be rewarded with fewer tourists. On-site find Inca terraces, a ceremonial fountain, impressive buildings, and a grand entrance gate.

Huchuy Qosqo Admission Fee | S/ 20 ($5.35 USD)

Huchuy Qosqo Trek Tours

If planning on hiking Huchuy Qosqo as a day trip, there are limited tour options. The Huchuy Qusqo trek is becoming a more popular alternative trek to reach Machu Picchu so tour companies offer multi-day treks like this one Huchuy Cusco Trek to Machu Picchu.

Best Cusco Day Trips to the Cusco South Valley

Some of the best Cusco day trips are in the valley south of Cusco. The Cusco South Valley includes Inca sites, beautiful churches, stunning mountains, and the iconic Rainbow Mountain.

7 | Tipon & Pikillacta & Andahuaylillas

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The Cusco South Valley seen from Tipon ruins

The closest point of interest in the Cusco South Valley is the Tipon Archaeological Site. These stunning ruins focus on the element of water and are home to beautiful Inca water canals and lookout points. The Tipon ruins are part of the Cusco Tourist Ticket.

The Pikillacta ruins are a little deeper in the South Valley and are the only Pre-Inca ruins on the entire Cusco Tourist Ticket. Both Tipon and Pikillacta are the least visited sites on the entire ticket but are some of the most memorable and impressive sites.

Cusco Tourist Ticket for South ValleyCostValid
Cusco Tourist Ticket CompleteS/ 130 ($35)10 Days
Cusco Tourist Ticket (Circuit 2)S/ 70 ($18.50)2 Days

Just down the road from Pikillacta ruins, find the Rumicola Gate. There is a small section of the gate standing, which was said to be the grand entrance gate to the Imperial City of Cuzco.

Farther down the road in the South Valley of Cusco is the small village ofAndahuaylillas. Nestled in the center of town find The Church of Saint Peter the Apostle. This small and ordained church boasts a painted ceiling and is oftentimes called the “Sistine Chapel of the Americas.”

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St. Peter the Apostle Church of Andahuaylillas

The church in Andahuaylillas is not included on the Cusco Tourist Ticket and is 25 PEN ($6.75 USD). This ticket is part of the Ruta del Barroco Andino and is also valid at the nearby South Valley churches of the Purified Virgin of Canincunca and Saint John the Baptist of Huaro. These three churches are within a few minutes of each other by car.

Tipon, Pikillacta, and Andahuaylillas in the Cusco South Valley can all be visited as a full-day trip from Cusco.

How To Get to Cusco South Valley from Cusco

The Cusco South Valley is one of the easier Cusco day trips to reach via bus.

One of the best locations to catch the Tipon bus in Cusco is in Plaza San Francisco in front of the large white University building.

 🚌 Cusco to Tipon | Company: Los Leones | Cost: 2 PEN (50¢) | Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes Terminal Hub is here | Exit at the Final Stop: Choccepata village in the Plaza de Armas

The Choccepata Plaza de Armas has a church and a few small shops selling snacks. From there it’s possible to walk to Tipon on an Old Inca Road or take a taxi to the entrance gate.

After visiting, return to the main highway (3S) that runs south of Cusco. There are multiple bus companies that run frequently to the south all the way to Andahuaylillas and beyond.

The Cusco South Valley is also accessible via taxi.

Here’s a Cusco South Valley Tour that includes the highlights of Circuit 2 of the Cusco Tourist Ticket and the church of Andahuaylillas.

8 | Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)

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Rainbow Mountain is one of the newer Cusco day trips

The famed Mountain of Seven Colors has become one of the most popular Cusco day trips. Rainbow Mountain is one of the new Cusco attractions, as it was sadly discovered after the glacier melted. However, it is becoming increasingly popular and there are frequent full-day tours from Cusco.

The hike to Rainbow Mountain is tough, so it’s important to be properly acclimated. The actual hike takes a few hours and climbs to a lookout point at a towering 16,522 ft.

At Rainbow Mountain, appreciate the stunning distant views of Ausangate Mountain. Many locals provide opportunities to take photos with alpacas dressed in colorful decorated clothing.

If you have time, don’t miss the nearby Red Valley, which feels like stepping onto Mars. There is a separate entrance ticket to Red Valley.

How to Get to Rainbow Mountain from Cusco

With so many people day-tripping from Cusco to Rainbow Mountain, the best way to get there is via a tour company.

Those intrepid and experienced hikers can access Rainbow Mountain as part of the remote and challenging Ausangate trek. There are guided treks that offer a shorter 3-day Ausangate trek with Rainbow Mountain.

9 | Ausangate Seven Lakes Hike

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The Seven Lagunas Ausangate Trek boasts stunning lakes and mountains

Ausangate is a popular multiday trek from Cusco, but more tour groups offer a chance to experience a section of the hike as a long day trip from Cusco. Hikers can hike the seven lakes of Ausangate or the 7 Lagunas Ausangate Hike.

This full-day tour from Cusco is an alternative way to experience the beauty of Ausangate Mountain.

The 7 Lagunas Ausangate hike passes by seven alpine lakes. Tours start from the small village of Pacchanta, home to one of the best Peru hot springs. There is nothing like enjoying the views of Apu Ausangate from the rustic hot springs.

How To Experience the 7 Lagunas Ausangate Hike from Cusco

Since Ausangate is quite far from Cusco, it’s best to access the 7 Lagunas Ausangate hike with a tour company.

10 | Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain

With the popularity and crowds flocking to Rainbow Mountain, Palccoyo has become a popular place to visit. The multi-colored mountains can be seen here as well and with fewer gimmicks.

How To Get to Palccoyo Mountain from Cusco

It’s best to visit with an organized tour since Palcoyo Mountain is much farther south from Cusco.

11 | Waqrapukara Ruins

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Waqrapukara is maybe more impressive than Machu Picchu

The horned fortress of Waqrapukara is an unforgettable Inca site in Peru. Believe it or not, the peculiar Waqrapukara ruins sit at an altitude of over 13,500 feet.

This sacred site is said to pre-date the Inca Empire and belonged to the Qanchi tribe. Some experts say these ruins could have first been built around 1,500 B.C.!

The Incas eventually conquered this sacred site during the height of their rule and built the remains of this stunning Inca fortress. The site boasts epic views of the Apurímac Valley.

There are many hiking routes that lead to Waqrapukara. This special place has an entrance fee of only 10 PEN.

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How To Get to Waqrapukara from Cusco

It’s possible to visit Waqrapukara on a long-day tour from Cusco. If visiting Waqraukara as a day trip from Cusco, I highly recommend using a tour company or a driver.

Intrepid hikers may wish to experience the magic of this sacred place via a 2 day Waqrapukara trek.

More Popular & Hidden-Gem Day Trips from Cusco

Here are a few less popular and unknown day trips from Cusco.

12 | Maukallacta Ruins

me at the doorway of Maukallaqta
Enjoying the Maukallaqta ruins

Maukallacta is an awesome hidden gem day trip from Cusco. These stunning ruins consist of two main parts, the sacred cave system of Puma Orqo and the Maukallacta ruins.

Maukallacta is rumored to be one of the first sites built by the Incas. While many ancient stories say the Incas rose from the depth of Lake Titicaca, there is a second little-known theory. Some say that the Inca emerged from the cave systems found at Puma Orqo.

Puma Orqo has a peculiar decapitated Puma sculpture found at the top of the caves. There are ruins surrounding the caves.

Less than a mile from Puma Orqo, follow the road to Maukallacta. This incredible site has 9 triple doors, which were used only at the most sacred of Inca sites. The construction of Maukallacta resembled the building techniques of Huchuy Qosqo.

Maukallacta sees barely any tourists and is completely free to visit.

How to Get to Maukallaqta from Cusco

The sacred site of Maukallaqta can be reached via collectivos from Cusco. Collectivos drop in the village of Yaurisque where it’s a scenic hike to Maukallaqta.

🚗 Cars to Yaurisque | Departure Location: Terminal Terrestre Juan Espinoza Medrano | Cost: 10 PEN ($2.75) | Time: 45 minutes | Collectivos depart when full | Hours: 5:00 – 19:00

13 | Humantay Lake

One of the most stunning Cusco day trips is to the shimmering alpine lake of Laguna Humantay or Humantay Lake. This bright turquoise glacial lake is a short hike from the village of Soraypampa.

Along the trail expect to see the stunning views of the snowcapped mountains and the distant views of the Salkantay Mountain.

Laguna Humantay is usually a stopping point along the Salkantay trek but is a popular day trip from Cusco for those travelers who don’t want to trek the entire 4-day route.

How To Get to Humantay Lake from Cusco

Laguna Humantay can be visited independently or as part of a guided tour. For those strictly looking to visit the Lake as a day trip, it’s best to utilize an organized tour group.

14 | Lares Hot Springs

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Lares hot springs are a long day trip from Cusco

Lares is located in the Lares Valley, which can be reached from the village of Calca in the Sacred Valley. The trip to Lares will be an extremely long day trip from Cusco.

Travelers come to Lares to soak in the rustic Lares hot springs. These curative waters are used by locals to bathe, so don’t expect a luxury spa day. However, the incredible setting nestled in the mountains and along the rushing river makes a trip to Lares worth it.

The hot springs pools range in temperate and the water appears yellowish from all the rich minerals found in the water. There is a small cooling pool and steaming hot outdoor showers.

The Lares hot spring complex is surrounded by a garden, which has places to pitch a tent or enjoy a picnic. Onsite are a few guest rooms because these hot springs are open 24 hours!

How to Get to Lares from Cusco

Lares is a super long day trip from Cusco. First, you’ll need to head to Calca from Cusco.

In Cusco, collectivos depart from Puputi Street, remember these are where the collectivos depart for Pisac. Make sure to hop on one that passes through Pisac and continues to Calca.

Collectivo Logistic Cusco to Calca | Cost: 6 PEN ($1.75) | Duration: 1 hour | Collectivos depart when full

Once in Calca, find a collectivo going to Lares.

Collectivos Logistics | Calca to Lares | Cost: 13 PEN ($3.50) | Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes | Collectivos depart when full | Buses run from 6:00-18:00 | Last bus from Lares to Calca is 18:00!

As you can see, the Lares Hot Springs take almost three hours to reach from Cusco. There are a few guesthouses in Lares, but none are online. Calca has accommodation options, or nearby Urubamba is a great place to sleep in the Sacred Valley.

The Lares Trek, or Weaver’s Way, is becoming a popular alternative trek to Machu Picchu.

Conclusion | Best Cusco Day Trips

In short, these are some of the best day trips from Cusco. All of these Cusco day trips can be visited with a guided tour or independently on a budget.

From charming villages to epic hiking trails to stunning Inca sites, try to add at least a few of these day trips to your Cusco itinerary.

These Cusco day trips are found throughout the Sacred Valley, Cusco South Valley, and other nearby scenic valleys. These day trips are some of my most memorable travel experiences in Peru.

Have you done any of these day trips from Cusco? Which one was your favorite? Are there any Cusco day trips I’m missing that you loved? Let me know in the comments below!

Disclaimer: There’s a chance this post contains affiliate links, and I receive a small (but grateful) portion of the sale. There’s no extra cost to you, and I only promote things that I use and love.

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2 Comments

  1. Hi Megan, your blog was the only useful and detailed piece of information that I could find about DIY day tripping to the south valley. I used your blog and made a successful trip to Tipon, so thank you for creating this blog post!

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