Embark on an unforgettable 4 day Cusco Machu Picchu tour through the heart of the Inca Empire. Over four days, you will explore Cusco — a UNESCO World Heritage city where Inca stone foundations meet Spanish colonial architecture — journey through the breathtaking Sacred Valley of the Incas, and arrive by scenic Andean train at the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. This Cusco and Machu Picchu 4 day package is designed for travellers who want a complete Andean experience without rushing.
With a private expert guide, small groups, and hand-picked accommodation, every detail is taken care of — from your airport transfer on Day 1 to your departure on Day 4. Whether you are a first-time visitor to Peru or a seasoned traveller, this is the best 4 day tour Cusco Machu Picchu has to offer.
What to Expect on This 4 Day Cusco Machu Picchu Tour
This 4 day Cusco Machu Picchu tour takes you through three of the most iconic destinations in South America at a comfortable, unhurried pace. It is the ideal Cusco Machu Picchu package for first-time visitors to Peru — long enough to absorb the history and altitude, short enough to fit a tight travel schedule.
- Day 1 eases you into Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, with a guided city tour covering Qorikancha, Sacsayhuamán and the colonial Plaza de Armas.
- Day 2 takes you deep into the Sacred Valley of the Incas — visiting the agricultural terraces of Pisac, the salt mines of Maras and the fortress of Ollantaytambo before boarding the scenic train toward Aguas Calientes.
- Day 3 is the highlight: a private guided tour of Machu Picchu at sunrise, with free time to explore at your own pace.
- Day 4 returns you to Cusco with a transfer to the airport. Throughout the tour, a bilingual expert guide accompanies the group, keeping numbers small so every visit feels personal. All logistics — transfers, train tickets, entrance fees and accommodation — are arranged in advance, so you can focus entirely on the experience.
Tour Summary
Day 1: Arrival in Cusco & City Tour
- Airport pickup and private transfer to your hotel in Cusco.
- Welcome coca tea to help with altitude acclimatization.
- Trip briefing and itinerary overview with your guide.
- Afternoon guided City Tour of Cusco.
- Visit Qoricancha, the Temple of the Sun.
- Explore the archaeological sites of Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Tambomachay, and Pucapucara.
- Return to Cusco for overnight stay.
- Meals included: None.
Day 2: Sacred Valley Tour & Train to Aguas Calientes
- Morning pickup for a full-day Sacred Valley excursion.
- Stop at Taray Viewpoint for panoramic valley views.
- Guided visit to the Pisac Archaeological Complex.
- Free time at Pisac Craft Market and local artisan shops.
- Buffet lunch in Urubamba featuring Andean and international cuisine.
- Explore Ollantaytambo Fortress and traditional Inca streets.
- Scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes along the Urubamba River.
- Hotel check-in and overnight stay in Aguas Calientes.
- Meals included: Buffet Lunch.
Day 3: Machu Picchu Tour & Return to Cusco
- Early morning bus ride to Machu Picchu.
- Witness the sunrise over the Inca citadel.
- Guided tour through the main sectors of Machu Picchu.
- Free time to explore and take photographs.
- Optional hike to Huayna Picchu Mountain (if ticket included).
- Return to Aguas Calientes for lunch and train departure.
- Train to Ollantaytambo followed by private transfer to Cusco.
- Arrival at hotel in Cusco in the evening.
- Meals included: None.
Day 4: Departure from Cusco
- Hotel pickup and transfer to Cusco Airport.
- Assistance with airport arrangements before departure.
- End of services and farewell from Peru.
- Meals included: None.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Cusco & City Tour
Your adventure begins with a warm welcome at the Cusco airport, where our staff will be waiting to assist you with your transfer to your selected hotel. Upon arrival, you’ll be offered a revitalizing cup of coca tea to help you adjust to the high altitude. Our team will then provide a detailed briefing about your travel itinerary and answer any questions you may have.
In the afternoon, we embark on a fascinating City Tour to explore some of Cusco’s most iconic sites. Our first stop is Qoricancha, the famous Temple of the Sun, once the most important religious site of the Inca Empire. From there, we venture to four remarkable archaeological sites located just outside the city:
- Sacsayhuamán – A massive Inca fortress with impressive stonework and breathtaking views of Cusco.
- Qenqo – A mysterious ceremonial center believed to have been used for religious rituals dedicated to Pachamama (Mother Earth).
- Tambomachay – Known as the “Temple of Water,” this site showcases Inca hydraulic engineering.
- Pucapucara – A small military outpost that likely served as a control point and resting place for travelers.
After an enriching afternoon of history and exploration, we return to Cusco, where you can relax and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.
Meals: Not included.
Day 2: Sacred Valley Tour & Train to Aguas Calientes
We begin the day with a hotel pickup at 8:00 AM, setting out on an unforgettable journey through the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Our first stop is the Taray Viewpoint, where you’ll capture breathtaking panoramic views of the valley. Next, we visit the Pisac Archaeological Complex, famed for its impressive agricultural terraces and strategically positioned Inca neighborhoods.
This site is also home to the only visible Inca cemetery in the valley. After exploring the ruins, we descend to the town of Pisac, where you’ll have free time to wander through the Craft Market, known for its vibrant textiles, ceramics, and souvenirs. You can also visit local silver artisans, renowned for their intricate handmade jewelry.
Continuing our journey through the Sacred Valley, we make a stop for a delicious buffet lunch in Urubamba, allowing you to savor a mix of Andean and international cuisine in a picturesque setting. After lunch, we head to Ollantaytambo, often called the Living Inca City.
Here, you’ll see traditional Inca-built houses still inhabited by descendants of the Incas and explore the impressive Ollantaytambo Fortress, a key defensive stronghold with massive stone terraces and incredible views of the valley.
In the afternoon, we proceed to the Ollantaytambo train station to board the train to Aguas Calientes. The journey, lasting approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, follows the course of the Urubamba River, offering spectacular views as the Andean landscape transitions into the lush cloud forest. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, we will escort you to your hotel, where you can relax and prepare for the next day’s adventure at Machu Picchu. Meals: Buffet Lunch.
Day 3: Machu Picchu – The Lost City of the Incas
We start the day early in the morning, enjoying breakfast at the hotel before boarding the bus at approximately 5:30 AM for the ascent to the Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu. The journey takes about 25 minutes, allowing us to arrive just in time to witness the breathtaking sunrise over this ancient wonder.
Our guided tour begins around 6:30 AM and lasts approximately two hours. During this time, our expert guide will take you through the most important sectors of Machu Picchu, including the Main Plaza, the Circular Tower, the Sacred Solar Clock (Intihuatana), the Royal Quarters, the Temple of Three Windows, and the Quarry.
After the tour, you’ll have free time to explore the citadel at your own pace, take photographs, or simply soak in the mystical atmosphere. If your entrance ticket includes access to Huayna Picchu Mountain, you’ll embark on a challenging yet rewarding 2-hour round-trip hike to one of the most iconic viewpoints of Machu Picchu.
Once you’ve completed your visit, you’ll descend to Aguas Calientes and have time for lunch (not included) before heading to the train station. We’ll board the train back to Ollantaytambo (approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes), where our staff will be waiting to transfer you in our private transportation back to Cusco (a 1.5-hour drive).
Arrival in Cusco is expected around 7:30 to 8:00 PM, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel to rest after an unforgettable experience at Machu Picchu.
Meals: Not Included.
Day 4: Departure from Cusco
In the morning, we will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco. Our team will assist you with any necessary arrangements before you board your return flight to your place of origin.
This marks the end of your incredible journey through the heart of the Inca civilization. We hope you leave with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of Cusco and Machu Picchu. Safe travels, and we look forward to welcoming you back to Peru in the future!
Includes
- Transfers: Airport – Hotel – Airport.
- Hotel Pick-up: Private transportation from your hotel in Cusco.
- City Tour: Includes transportation, professional guide, and entrance fees.
- Sacred Valley Tour: Includes transportation, professional guide, entrance fees, and a buffet lunch.
- Private Transportation: Cusco – Ollantaytambo (Train Station) – Cusco.
- Train Tickets: Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo
- Accommodation: 3 nights in hotels in Cusco and Aguas Calientes ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ or ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐.
- Bus Tickets (CONSETUR): Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes.
- Entrance Tickets: Machu Picchu.
- Private Tour Guide: Professional guide for a personalized experience.
- Hotel Transfer: Transfer to your hotel in Cusco after the tour.
- Meals: As specified in the itinerary.
What’s Not included
- Meals and beverages not mentioned in the program.
- Extra activities (optional).
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu (additional USD 65.00).
- Gratitudes
- Traveler’s Insurance.
Packing List
- Light backpack (for daily essentials)
- Comfortable walking shoes (suitable for uneven terrain)
- Hiking shoes or trekking boots (recommended for Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu for better grip and support)
- Warm clothing (Cusco can be chilly, especially in the mornings and evenings)
- Light clothing (for warmer daytime temperatures in the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu)
- Rain jacket or poncho (weather can change quickly, especially near Machu Picchu)
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen)
- Refillable water bottle (stay hydrated at high altitudes)
- Personal hygiene items (hand sanitizer, tissues, wet wipes)
- Snacks (for energy during long days of exploration)
- Camera or smartphone (to capture unforgettable moments)
- Personal medication (if needed, including altitude sickness remedies)
- Valid passport (required for Machu Picchu entry and train tickets)
- Cash in Peruvian soles (for small purchases, souvenirs, or tips)
Practical Travel Information for Your Cusco & Machu Picchu Trip
Altitude & acclimatisation. Cusco sits at 3,400 m (11,154 ft) above sea level. Day 1 of this 4 day Cusco Machu Picchu tour is intentionally light to allow your body to adjust. We recommend arriving the night before your tour begins if flying from Lima, and avoiding alcohol and heavy meals on your first day.
Machu Picchu itself is at 2,430 m — significantly lower — so most travellers feel much better by Day 3. Best time to visit. The dry season runs from April to October and is the best time to visit Cusco and Machu Picchu. June, July and August are the busiest months. For smaller crowds and equally clear skies, April, May and September are ideal.
The rainy season (November – March) brings lush green landscapes and lower prices, though some mountain roads may be affected. Fitness level. This tour is suitable for most fitness levels. Machu Picchu involves walking on uneven stone paths for 2–3 hours. No trekking or climbing experience is required. Travellers with reduced mobility should contact us before booking so we can advise on the most accessible circuits. What to bring.
Comfortable walking shoes, a light waterproof jacket, sunscreen (UV levels are high at altitude), a refillable water bottle and a small daypack. Entrance to Machu Picchu requires a printed or digital ticket — we arrange this in advance as part of your Cusco Machu Picchu package.
- Duration: 4 days / 3 nights
- Starting Point: Cusco – Hotel pick-up
- Ending Point: Cusco – Drop-off at your hotel
- Group Size: 2 and up
- Altitude: Cusco (3,399 m / 11,152 ft), Machu Picchu (2,430 m / 7,972 ft)
- Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate (some walking involved)
- Best Time to Visit: April to October (dry season)
- Weather: Cool mornings and evenings, warm daytime temperatures
- Accommodations: 3 and 4 stars Hotels
Altitude & Acclimatisation
Cusco sits at 3,400 m (11,154 ft) above sea level, so your first day is kept intentionally light. Mild symptoms like headache or shortness of breath are common and usually pass within 24–48 hours. We recommend drinking coca tea, avoiding alcohol on your first night, and eating light meals.
Machu Picchu itself is at 2,430 m — noticeably lower — so most travellers feel significantly better by Day 3. If you are particularly sensitive to altitude, we recommend arriving in Cusco one day before the tour begins.
Best Time to Visit
The dry season (April to October) is the best time for this 4 day Cusco Machu Picchu tour. Skies are clear, trails are dry, and conditions at Machu Picchu are at their finest. June, July and August are peak months — vibrant but busy. For fewer crowds with equally good weather, April, May and September are ideal.
The rainy season (November to March) brings lush green landscapes and lower prices; Machu Picchu remains open year-round, though some afternoons bring mist and short showers.
Difficulty Level
This tour is rated Easy to Moderate and is suitable for most fitness levels. No trekking or climbing experience is required. The main physical demands are 2–3 hours of walking on uneven stone paths at Machu Picchu and some uphill walking at Sacsayhuamán and Ollantaytambo.
The pace is comfortable throughout, with regular rest stops. Travellers with reduced mobility or knee concerns should contact us before booking — we can advise on the most accessible circuits at each site.
Group Size & Guide
All departures run with a maximum of 8 travellers, keeping the experience personal and flexible. Your guide is a certified, bilingual (English/Spanish) local expert with deep knowledge of Inca history, archaeology and Andean culture. The same guide accompanies you across all four days, so the experience is consistent and tailored to your group's pace and interests.
What's Included
- 3 nights hotel accommodation (Cusco and Aguas Calientes)
- Private bilingual guide throughout all 4 days
- All private transfers (airport, Sacred Valley, train station)
- Train tickets Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo
- Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu and all Sacred Valley sites
- Bus tickets up and down from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
- Daily breakfast
What's Not Included
- International or domestic flights
- Lunch and dinner (plenty of good options at each stop — your guide will recommend)
- Travel insurance (required — we can suggest providers)
- Optional hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (permit required, limited spaces — ask when booking)
- Personal expenses and tips
What to Bring
Comfortable, grippy walking shoes are essential — sandals and heels are not suitable for Machu Picchu. Pack a light waterproof jacket (weather can change quickly in the mountains), high-SPF sunscreen (UV levels are intense at altitude), a refillable water bottle, insect repellent for Aguas Calientes, and a small daypack for daily excursions.
A light fleece or mid-layer is useful for early mornings in Cusco. Your Machu Picchu entrance ticket will be arranged by Peru Andes Discovery — bring it printed or on your phone.
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Location for: 4 Days 4 Days Discovering Cusco Machu Picchu Tour
Frequently Asked Questions — 4 Day Cusco Machu Picchu Tour
The tour includes 3 nights of hotel accommodation, a private bilingual guide for all 4 days, all transfers, train tickets to and from Machu Picchu, entrance tickets to Machu Picchu and all Sacred Valley sites, bus tickets up and down the mountain, and daily breakfast. International flights, lunches, dinners and travel insurance are not included.
On Day 2, you travel from Cusco to Ollantaytambo by private vehicle, then board a scenic panoramic train through the Urubamba River Valley to Aguas Calientes. From there, a bus takes you up the mountain to the Machu Picchu entrance in approximately 25 minutes. All tickets and logistics are arranged and managed by your guide.
Yes, this is our most recommended tour for first-time visitors. The 4-day structure gives you enough time to acclimatise to Cusco’s altitude, explore the Sacred Valley at a relaxed pace, and experience Machu Picchu fully — without rushing. Your guide provides historical and cultural context at every site, so no prior knowledge of Inca history is needed.
The tour is rated Easy to Moderate. You will walk 2–3 hours on uneven stone terrain at Machu Picchu and some uphill paths at Ollantaytambo and Sacsayhuamán. No trekking experience is required. The main challenge is altitude on Day 1 in Cusco (3,400 m), which eases by Day 3 when you reach Machu Picchu at 2,430 m.
The dry season from April to October offers the best conditions — clear skies, dry paths and excellent visibility at Machu Picchu. May, September and October are particularly good for avoiding peak-season crowds while keeping great weather. The rainy season (November to March) is still possible and offers lower prices and greener landscapes, though afternoon showers are common.
Absolutely. You can add extra nights in Cusco for more acclimatisation or sightseeing, upgrade your train class, include a permit for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, or extend the trip with the Inca Trail, Lake Titicaca or the Amazon. Contact our team and we will build a personalised itinerary at no extra planning cost.
We understand that travel plans change. Cancellations made more than 30 days before departure receive a full refund. Between 15 and 30 days, a 50% refund applies. Within 15 days, the booking is non-refundable but can be rescheduled subject to availability.
Machu Picchu entrance tickets are issued by the Ministry of Culture and are strictly non-refundable once purchased — we will always advise the best timing for ticket purchase to protect your booking.
