Only one day in Cusco? Don't worry — you can still experience the magic of the Inca capital and its surroundings in a single, unforgettable day. Whether you're drawn to ancient ruins, turquoise lakes, or vibrant local markets, there's a Cusco full day tour designed for every kind of traveler.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the best full day tours from Cusco in 2026, what each one includes, how to choose the right one for you, and insider tips from our local team.

What Is a Cusco Full Day Tour?

A Cusco full day tour is a guided experience that takes you from Cusco to one of the region's iconic destinations — and back — all in one day. Most tours start between 5:00 and 8:00 AM and return by 5:00 to 7:00 PM, giving you a full 8 to 12 hours of exploration.

Every tour includes transportation, a professional bilingual guide, and entrance fees. Some also include meals, depending on the destination. It's the best way to make the most of your time if you're on a tight schedule or want to explore multiple destinations across different days.

Top 7 Full Day Tours from Cusco in 2026

1. Cusco City Tour + Archaeological Ruins

Best for: First-time visitors who want a complete introduction to the city.

Start your day at the stunning Plaza de Armas, then visit the Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun), where Inca stonework meets Spanish colonial architecture. Continue to the impressive fortress of Sacsayhuaman, with massive stone blocks weighing over 100 tons and panoramic views of the city below. The tour also includes stops at Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay, each with its own story and mystery.

Duration: 6-8 hours | Difficulty: Easy

2. Sacred Valley Full Day Tour

Best for: History lovers and families who want variety.

This is one of the most popular full day tours from Cusco, and for good reason. You'll visit four iconic sites in a single day: the terraces and market at Pisac, the circular agricultural laboratory of Moray, the ancient Maras Salt Mines with over 3,000 salt pools cascading down the mountainside, and the fortress town of Ollantaytambo, gateway to Machu Picchu.

Many tours also include a stop in Chinchero, where local weavers demonstrate traditional dyeing and weaving techniques passed down through generations.

Duration: 10-12 hours | Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

3. Machu Picchu by Train (Full Day)

Best for: Travelers who want to see Machu Picchu without a multi-day trek.

Yes, you can visit Machu Picchu and return to Cusco in a single day. The journey combines a scenic train ride through the Urubamba Valley with a guided tour of the citadel. You'll depart early from Cusco (or Ollantaytambo), arrive at Aguas Calientes, and spend approximately 2.5 hours exploring the ruins with your guide.

Important for 2026: Machu Picchu allows 5,600 visitors per day. Book at least 2 months in advance to secure your spot.

Duration: 14-16 hours | Difficulty: Easy (no hiking required)

4. Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)

Best for: Adventurous travelers and photography enthusiasts.

The Rainbow Mountain trek takes you to 5,200 meters above sea level, where layers of mineral-rich earth create a stunning palette of reds, yellows, greens, and turquoise. The hike is about 6 km round trip, and while the altitude is challenging, the views are absolutely worth it.

Pro tip: Spend at least 2 days acclimatizing in Cusco before attempting this trek. Your body will thank you.

Duration: 12-14 hours | Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

5. Humantay Lake

Best for: Nature lovers who want a rewarding hike without extreme altitude.

Humantay Lake sits at 4,200 meters at the foot of the Salkantay glacier. The turquoise waters reflecting the snow-capped peaks create one of the most photographed landscapes in Peru. The hike is about 3 km round trip from the trailhead and takes approximately 1.5 hours each way.

In 2026, improved access trails have made this tour more accessible than ever, making it perfect for moderately fit travelers.

Duration: 12-14 hours | Difficulty: Moderate

6. Maras, Moray & Chinchero

Best for: Travelers who want a shorter, more relaxed cultural experience.

This is a lighter alternative to the full Sacred Valley tour, focusing on three of its most fascinating sites. Explore the ingenious circular terraces of Moray, walk through the thousands of salt pools at Maras that have been harvested since Inca times, and visit Chinchero for its beautiful church, Inca walls, and textile demonstrations.

Duration: 6-8 hours | Difficulty: Easy

7. Potato Park (Community-Based Tourism)

Best for: Travelers seeking authentic cultural immersion.

This is one of Cusco's hidden gems. The Potato Park is a community-run conservation area in the hills above Pisac, where local families preserve over 1,300 varieties of native potatoes. You'll visit family homes, learn about traditional agriculture, share a meal cooked with local ingredients, and experience Andean life firsthand.

This isn't a typical tourist stop — it's a meaningful connection with the people and traditions of the Andes.

Duration: 8-10 hours | Difficulty: Easy

How to Choose the Right Full Day Tour

Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and how long you'll be in Cusco:

If it's your first day in Cusco, start with the City Tour. It's the easiest option and helps you acclimatize while discovering the city's history.

If you have one day for a big adventure, go for the Sacred Valley or Machu Picchu by Train. Both offer incredible variety and value.

If you want a physical challenge, Rainbow Mountain or Humantay Lake will test your limits and reward you with breathtaking scenery.

If you're looking for a cultural deep dive, the Potato Park tour offers something genuinely different — a chance to connect with local communities beyond the typical tourist path.

What's Included in a Cusco Full Day Tour?

Most reputable Cusco full day tours include: round-trip transportation from your hotel in Cusco, a professional bilingual guide (English and Spanish), entrance fees to all sites on the itinerary, and first aid kit with oxygen for high-altitude tours. Many tours also include breakfast and/or lunch, though this varies by operator and tour type.

What's typically not included: tips for your guide, personal expenses, and the Cusco Tourist Ticket (130 soles for 16 sites, or 70 soles for a partial ticket covering 4 Sacred Valley sites).

Cusco Full Day Tour Prices in 2026

Prices vary depending on the destination and whether you choose a group or private tour:

The City Tour starts from $25-40 USD per person. The Sacred Valley ranges from $35-60 USD. Machu Picchu by Train costs between $200-350 USD (including train tickets and entrance). Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lake start from $40-60 USD each. Maras, Moray & Chinchero is typically $30-50 USD. And the Potato Park experience starts from $45-70 USD.

Private tours cost more but offer flexibility, a personalized pace, and a dedicated guide — perfect for families, couples, or anyone who prefers a more intimate experience.

Essential Tips for Your Full Day Tour

Acclimatize first. Cusco sits at 3,400 meters. If you've just arrived, take it easy on your first day. Drink coca tea, stay hydrated, and avoid heavy meals.

Book in advance. High season (June-August) and holidays fill up fast. For Machu Picchu, book at least 2 months ahead. For Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lake, one week is usually enough.

Dress in layers. Mornings can be cold (especially for early departures), but afternoons in the sun can be warm. Bring a rain jacket during the wet season (November-March).

Bring cash. Some entrance fees (like Maras Salt Mines) and small purchases at local markets require cash in soles.

Wear good shoes. Even the "easy" tours involve walking on uneven terrain. Comfortable, broken-in hiking shoes are your best friend.

Why Book with Cusco Tours?

At Cusco Tours, we're a local team born and raised in Cusco. Our guides aren't just professionals — they're storytellers who grew up in the Sacred Valley, walked the Inca trails as children, and carry the history of this land in their hearts.

We design every tour with a focus on authentic experiences, sustainable tourism, and real connections with local communities. Whether you choose a group tour or a fully customized private experience, you'll always travel with someone who truly knows and loves this place.

Ready to plan your perfect day in Cusco? Contact us to book your Cusco full day tour or explore our day tour options.

Cusco Tours is a registered Peruvian company (Inversiones KcuscoTours S.R.L.), authorized by MINCETUR and DIRCETUR Cusco. We've been creating personalized travel experiences in Cusco and Peru since our founding, always with respect for our culture and environment.