1. Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is an archaeological site in Cusco, one of the most famous places in the world, a wonder of the modern world, and a major reason why travelers visit Peru. Machu Picchu was a sacred temple for the Incas, where only the upper or noble class resided, and on its terraces, they practiced the cultivation of various vegetables.

Today, the Sanctuary of Machu Picchu remains almost intact, with only a few destructions caused by natural disasters. It is located 150 km from the city of Cusco, at an altitude of 150 km above sea level, with temperatures ranging from -5°C in the morning and evening to 15°C during the day.

How to Get There: There are several routes to reach Machu Picchu, with the most famous being: Salkantay, Inca Jungle, Inca Trail, and Sacred Valley Connection.

You can also visit on your own, but it is highly recommended to take a tour to avoid issues with train ticket reservations, Machu Picchu Sanctuary entry, and guided tours.

2. Choquequirao

Choquequirao is considered the younger and sacred sister of Machu Picchu due to the similarity in construction. It was built in a strategic position at an altitude of 3030 meters above sea level, providing a privileged view of the surrounding area.

Choquequirao was a ceremonial center where you can observe two main plazas, temples, warehouses, workshops, canals, and elite residences.

How to Get There: Unlike Machu Picchu, Choquequirao can be visited without a tour. If traveling independently, you must organize the hike, food, luggage, and camping; you will be your own guide and should take the necessary precautions.

However, it is recommended to take a tour to Choquequirao and enjoy the visit. Prices range between $400 and $600, and you can choose a 2 or 4-day tour, or a combined 8-day tour with Machu Picchu.

3. Laguna de Humantay

Laguna de Humantay is one of the most striking natural attractions in Peru, located 4,300 meters above sea level. Its turquoise waters are formed from the melting glacier of Salkantay.

The lake is sacred to the locals, who historically depended on the streams from Laguna de Humantay for their harvests. Each year, locals gather to make offerings to Pachamama (Mother Earth) for good crop yields.

How to Get There: Visits can be made in one day, and you can either travel independently from Cusco or take a tour to Humantay to avoid organizing transportation and meals.

4. Mountain of Seven Colors

Known as Vinicunca or Rainbow Mountain, it is one of Peru’s new and top attractions.

Situated at 5,200 meters above sea level, this mountain is a formation colored in various hues due to a combination of minerals.

This tourist attraction was surrounded by ice many years ago. Since its discovery, it has welcomed hundreds of visitors daily, becoming, alongside Machu Picchu, one of the most visited places in Cusco, Peru.

How to Get There: You can visit this attraction independently or take a classic tour to Vinicunca, or even an ATV tour from certain points.

5. Ollantaytambo

Ollantaytambo is a tourist site in the Sacred Valley of Peru, located south of the Urubamba River and surrounded by snow-capped mountains.

It is known for the remains of Ollantaytambo, an immense Inca fortress with large stone courtyards on a hillside. Significant sites within the complex include the Temple of the Sun and the Princess Baths.

The historic center features cobblestone streets and adobe structures from the Inca era.

How to Get There: To reach Ollantaytambo, take transportation from Pavitos Street in Cusco, which will take you to Ollantaytambo, and purchase the tourist ticket.

It is recommended to take the Sacred Valley tour, which is more cost-effective and also includes visits to other archaeological sites such as Chinchero, Moray, Salineras, and Pisac in a complete package.

6. Pisac

Pisac is an archaeological complex located in the town of the same name in Calca, 30 kilometers from Cusco, Peru.

The archaeological site is one of the most significant and visited in the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

How to Get There: To visit Pisac, take transportation from Puputy Street towards the same name.

If you take the Sacred Valley tour or the connection with Machu Picchu, this site will be included.

7. Chinchero

The old town of Chinchero is one of the most charming in the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

It is a remarkable place where you can still experience and see Inca culture as it was in ancient times.

It has a remarkable plaza on what was once a royal Inca residence, with a reasonable mill Sunday, where traditional display crafts are still finished, and individuals can be seen wearing the traditional attire of their ancestors.

How to Get There: To visit Chinchero, take transportation from Cusco, from Pavitos Street towards Chinchero.

As mentioned earlier, it is advisable to take the Sacred Valley tour to avoid concerns about organizing transportation and entry tickets.