All You Need to Know About Day Trips Peru
Ok, so you have probably heard of Machu Picchu! Or you have learned about the incredible Inca civilization and the Lost Cities of Gold in school. However, did you know that Peru is a country of awe-inspiring nature, scenery, history, gastronomy, and culture? Much of what makes Peru so special can be explored on Peru day tours, to take you to the far corners of the country. On a Machu Picchu tour, you can explore a truly unforgettable destination.
In one day, you can see the natural wonder of Rainbow Mountain high in the Andes. You can visit the Colca Canyon on a one day trip from Arequipa, to see the giant Andean Condor. Or you can enjoy a tour of Lima to explore the history and culture of the capital, along with wonderful museums. Our day tours are a way to explore in depth those places that show you the depth of Peru´s essence, before or after your main tour in each destination. They add an extra depth to what will be an already life-changing tour package to Peru. They allow you to explore in more detail each destination and the details that are of most interest to you. Peru has a signature sight in Machu Picchu, but this incredible country is so much more. Explore it all on our day tours in Peru!
A Complete Guide to Day Tours
Machu Picchu
Let's begin with the most popular day trip – Machu Picchu!
We recommend spending more time visiting this ancient marvel of the Incas; however, you can explore it in just one day! Here is important information and background on the magical home of the Inca civilization.
Exploring Machu Picchu's History and Facts
Carefully situated within dramatic landscapes where the Peruvian Andes and the Amazon Basin meet, the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu is one of the greatest architectural and engineering achievements in the world, and one of the most significant legacies of the Inca civilization in Peru. Machu Picchu stands 2,430 meters (7,972 ft.) above sea level, in the middle of a tropical mountain cloud forest, in a mesmerizing setting.
It was likely the most amazing urban construction during the height of the Inca Empire. Its enormous walls, expansive terraces, and steep staircases seem to be carved naturally into the mountain's continuous rock faces. This breathtaking site lies on the eastern slopes of the Andes, above the upper Amazon Basin, home to an incredible biodiversity of flora and fauna.
Machu Picchu was abandoned after the Spanish conquest in the 15th century, though the Spanish never actually discovered the site. Its remote location preserved it for centuries.
On your Machu Picchu tour, you’ll witness over 200 structures built into a steep cliff face, connected by vast stone terraces. These structures form impressive religious, agricultural, ceremonial, and astronomical centers. The Inca citadel is divided into a lower and upper section, separating farming from residential areas, with a large plaza between the two.
Today, many of Machu Picchu’s mysteries continue to perplex historians and archaeologists. What was its exact purpose? How advanced was the Incas’ knowledge of astronomy? What role did the domestication of wild flora play in their development? Despite its relatively small size, Machu Picchu is exceptionally rich in biodiversity and remains a natural habitat with remarkable endemic plant and animal life.
Machu Picchu Tours – Specific Information
For more specific background details about your tours to Machu Picchu, click on the following links:
Machu Picchu History and Facts
How to Get to Machu Picchu
Optional Cusco Add-Ons
The Nature and Ecology of Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu Tickets and Permits
Permits for the Inca citadel cannot be purchased at the entrance gate. They should be purchased from an authorized tour operator such as Valencia Travel or directly from the government website of the Ministry of Culture. There are only 2,500 permits available for Machu Picchu each day.
There are three main ways to purchase your entrance ticket:
1. In person at an authorized office in Cusco or Aguas Calientes.
2. Online through the official website.
3. From an authorized travel agency such as Valencia Travel.
Option 1. Go to the ‘Direccion Regional de Cultura’ office with your passport on Garcilaso Street, Cusco. The Garcilaso House is only two blocks from the Plaza de Armas (main square). You can also travel to Aguas Calientes and purchase your Machu Picchu entrance from the Ministry of Culture office. This should be done the day before your visit. Expect to queue for a few hours.
Option 2. Online via the Ministry of Culture’s website: www.machupicchu.gob.pe. Click the UK flag at the top right to view the site in English. Be aware the site can be slow or offline.
Option 3. Book with a tour operator. The easiest and safest way to secure permits is through an authorized agency. They will purchase the entrance ticket for you—just send a copy of your passport and the visit date. Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. All Valencia Travel tours to Machu Picchu include the entrance permit.
Preparation for Peru Day Tours
Traveling in Peru can be physically and emotionally demanding, especially at altitude or in remote areas. To fully enjoy your experience, take time to prepare for your adventure. Here are some helpful tips for staying healthy and energized during your Peru day tours with our experienced local guides.
There are plenty of amazing things to do in the city of Cusco. Allow yourself as much time as possible to relax and take things easy. Then you’ll be in much better shape for when you head out on your exploration. Coffee shops, reading material, and getting to know the area are all excellent ways to relax in Cusco.
There are some impressive examples of Inca architecture to be visited in Cusco, before you even set off on your epic treks to explore the Andes. It’s definitely worth taking a look at Cusco day tours. Make this a part of your acclimatization to the high altitude in the Andean region of Peru.
Pack Light On Your Day Tour
Make sure you only take the absolute necessities on your day tours from Cusco. Carrying an overweight daypack will not only slow you down but will also over-exert you, especially in high-altitude areas. You can store your main luggage at your Cusco hotel or at our office. Just take the essential items you’ll need for your day trips from Cusco. Remember to pack light!
Eat Well on Your Tour
This refers to eating the correct way and the right meals on your arrival in Cusco—not eating everything in sight! Salads (washed in purified water), sandwiches, and plenty of water are excellent choices to prepare your body for potential altitude issues. Don’t forget, your digestive system slows down at high altitudes. Smaller, more frequent meals are better than heavy ones. Try to stick to carbs instead of greasy foods to keep your energy up. This is the best preparation for your Andean day tours.
Avoid Alcohol During The First Few Days
You’ll need to acclimate upon arrival in Cusco, especially if you plan a trek or visit high-altitude areas. All that downtime may lead to some social indulgences, but avoid alcohol until you’re properly acclimatized. Nausea, dizziness, and headaches can be much worse with alcohol. Altitude and alcohol are a bad mix. Save the pisco sours for later!
The Magical Coca Leaf
The humble coca leaf has long been used for medicinal and ceremonial purposes in the Andean region. It helps combat altitude symptoms, acts as a diuretic, and is surprisingly tasty! You can brew a tea or chew the leaves directly. Coca tea is commonly available at hotels to help ease headaches and other altitude-related discomforts. It’s a great remedy before heading out on a trek!
Starting and Ending Points for Your Cusco Day Tours
All of our Cusco day tours and treks start and end in Cusco. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or new to Peru, knowing your pickup and drop-off points ensures a smooth and stress-free experience.
Day Treks from Cusco
Starting Point: Cusco
Treks like the Humantay Lake Trek and Rainbow Mountain begin with hotel pickup in Cusco. After a scenic drive to trailheads like Cusipata or Mollepata, you’ll begin your unforgettable one-day hike in the Andes.
Packing Wisely for Your Peru Day Trips
Clothing for Your Peru Day Trips
- Lightweight clothing for layering
- Bathing suit (for thermal springs included in some day trips)
- Warm sweater
- Light jacket
- Cross-body purse for city tours
- Brimmed hat for sun protection
- Warm hat for higher altitudes
- Sunglasses
- Sneakers or other comfortable shoes
- Hiking boots (preferably waterproof) for trekking tours
- Daypack or small backpack
Health Items for One-Day Tours in Peru
- High-SPF sunblock
- Insect repellent
- Basic first-aid kit
- Any personal medications
- Toilet paper or tissues
Equipment & Tech for Guided Day Trips in Peru
- Walking sticks (especially for mountain hikes)
- Compact umbrella (for city tours or unpredictable weather)
- Camera or smartphone for photography
- Language app or pocket dictionary (Spanish/Quechua)
- Cell phone with charger
- Spare batteries or power bank
- Reusable water bottle
Documents for Your Peru Day Trip
Always bring a photocopy of your passport. If you're visiting Machu Picchu, you must carry the original physical passport. For other day tours from Cusco, a copy is usually sufficient.
Don’t forget to carry some cash for tips, souvenirs, and small purchases. Both US Dollars and Peruvian Soles are accepted, though you’ll usually get the best exchange rate in Peru rather than in your home country.
Important: If you are taking the train to Machu Picchu, note that luggage is restricted to 8 kg (17.6 lbs) on both Inca Rail and Peru Rail services. Plan accordingly.
Still unsure what to pack for your Peru day tours? Contact our travel experts, and we’ll be happy to help!