Embark on the ultimate 7-day Cusco and Machu Picchu tour — a private, expertly guided journey through the heart of the Inca Empire. Explore Cusco’s ancient temples and cobblestone streets, discover the Sacred Valley’s salt mines and Inca terraces, and stand in awe before Machu Picchu at sunrise.
With optional hikes up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, scenic Vistadome train rides, handpicked boutique hotels, and private transport throughout, this exclusive 7-day experience is crafted for travelers who want more than a standard tour. From $1,750 USD per person — reserve your spot today.
Overview
Experience the very best of Cusco and Machu Picchu on this unforgettable 7-day journey through the heart of the Inca Empire. Explore the historic city of Cusco, discover the breathtaking Sacred Valley, and immerse yourself in the wonders of Machu Picchu over two incredible days.
Visit ancient archaeological sites, vibrant Andean villages, and stunning mountain landscapes while enjoying comfortable accommodations and expertly guided experiences. This itinerary offers the perfect balance of culture, history, adventure, and relaxation, making it an ideal introduction to Peru’s most iconic destinations.
Summary of the 7-day tour to Machu Picchu
Day 1: Arrival in Cusco & Acclimatization
- Arrival in Cusco and hotel transfer.
- Welcome briefing about the upcoming journey.
- Time to acclimatize to the altitude.
- Optional stroll around Plaza de Armas and historic streets.
Day 2: Cusco City Tour & Inca Ruins
- Visit Qoricancha, the Temple of the Sun.
- Explore Sacsayhuamán fortress.
- Discover Qenqo’s ceremonial labyrinths.
- Visit Puka Pukara and Tambomachay.
- Free afternoon to enjoy Cusco.
Day 3: Sacred Valley Adventure
- Visit Chinchero and its traditional Andean culture.
- Explore the Maras Salt Mines.
- Discover the agricultural terraces of Moray.
- Enjoy a traditional Andean lunch.
- Visit Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site.
- Overnight in the Sacred Valley.
Day 4: Machu Picchu Discovery
- Scenic train journey from Ollantaytambo.
- Travel to Aguas Calientes.
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu.
- Explore temples, terraces, and panoramic viewpoints.
- Overnight in Aguas Calientes.
Day 5: Machu Picchu Adventure & Return to Cusco
- Optional hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
- Additional time to enjoy Machu Picchu.
- Train back to Ollantaytambo.
- Private transfer to Cusco.
- Overnight in Cusco.
Day 6: Free Day in Cusco
- Explore Cusco at your own pace.
- Visit artisan markets and local shops.
- Shop for alpaca textiles, ceramics, and handicrafts.
- Optional excursions available.
Day 7: Departure from Cusco
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Transfer to Cusco Airport.
- Flight to Lima and onward connections.
- End of services and farewell to Peru.
Why Choose This 7-Day Cusco and Machu Picchu Tour?
Experience the perfect combination of history, culture, breathtaking landscapes, and comfort on this carefully crafted 7-day adventure through Peru’s most iconic destinations. From the ancient streets of Cusco to the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu, every day is designed to provide an authentic and unforgettable experience.
Highlights of This Tour
- Explore Cusco’s Inca and Colonial Heritage
Discover the fascinating history of the former capital of the Inca Empire through guided visits to its most important archaeological and cultural landmarks. - Visit the Best of the Sacred Valley
Explore Chinchero, Maras, Moray, and Ollantaytambo while enjoying spectacular mountain scenery and authentic Andean culture. - Enjoy Two Days at Machu Picchu
Experience one of the New Seven Wonders of the World without rushing, with ample time to explore, take photos, and optionally hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. - Small Groups and Personalized Service
Benefit from expert local guides, personalized attention, and seamless logistics throughout your journey. - Comfortable Hotels and Scenic Train Travel
Stay in carefully selected accommodations and enjoy one of the most scenic train journeys in South America. - A Perfect Balance of Guided Tours and Free Time
Enjoy expert-guided experiences while still having time to explore Cusco at your own pace. - Ideal for First-Time Visitors to Peru
This itinerary combines Peru’s most famous highlights into one unforgettable week, making it the perfect introduction to the country’s rich history and culture.
A Journey Through the Heart of the Inca Empire
Whether you're passionate about archaeology, fascinated by ancient civilizations, or simply looking for a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience, this 7-day Cusco and Machu Picchu tour offers the perfect opportunity to discover the very best of Peru.
Tour At a Glance
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Duration | 7 days / 6 nights |
| Start / End | Cusco Airport |
| Group Size | 2 and up (private) |
| Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
| Max Altitude | 3,400 m / 11,150 ft (Cusco) |
| Best Season | April – October (dry season) |
| Languages | English & Spanish |
| Price | From $1,750 USD per person |
What Makes This Tour Exclusive?
Private Access & Small Groups
- No compartirás guía ni transporte con desconocidos
- Acceso a sitios arqueológicos antes de la apertura masiva al público
- Rutas y ritmo adaptados a tu grupo
Handpicked Boutique Hotels
- Cusco: hoteles con carácter andino en el centro histórico
- Ollantaytambo: alojamiento dentro del pueblo inca vivo
- Aguas Calientes: El Mapi Hotel, a pasos de la estación del tren
Expert Local Guides
- Guías certificados por el Ministerio de Cultura del Perú
- Conocimiento profundo de historia inca, arqueología y cultura local
- Bilingüe inglés / español
Scenic Vistadome Train Experience
- Ventanas panorámicas con vistas al cañón del Urubamba
- Techo acristalado para fotografiar la selva nublada
- Servicio a bordo incluido
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Cusco & Acclimatization
Upon arrival in Cusco (3,400m), our representative will warmly welcome you and accompany you to your hotel. There, you will receive a briefing with essential details about your upcoming activities. The rest of the day is yours to relax and begin acclimatizing to the altitude at your own pace.
If you feel up to it, you can take a gentle walk around Plaza de Armas or explore some of Cusco’s traditional streets to soak in the city’s unique atmosphere. If you require assistance, our guide and private transportation will be available to accompany you. Additionally, we will be happy to provide recommendations for a delicious lunch or dinner so you can enjoy the best of local cuisine.
Meals: Not Included
Day 2: Cusco City Tour & Archaeological Sites
We will begin our tour at 9:00 AM with a visit to the Qoricancha Temple, the most important religious site of the Inca Empire, where the remarkable fusion of Inca and colonial architecture continues to amaze visitors. Then, we will head to the outskirts of the city to explore the Four Archaeological Sites.
First, at Sacsayhuamán, we will admire its massive stone walls and strategic location offering panoramic views of Cusco. Next, we’ll visit Qenqo, a ceremonial center with fascinating rock-carved labyrinths. We will then explore Puka Pukara, an ancient military fortress, before finishing at Tambomachay, known as the “Baths of the Inca,” where water has continuously flowed since Inca times.
Our tour will conclude at 2:00 PM, after which we will return to our hotel in Cusco. Your guide will be happy to provide recommendations for lunch and later, a memorable dinner to continue enjoying Cusco’s culinary delights.
Meals: Not Included
Day 3: Sacred Valley of the Incas
We begin our journey through the Sacred Valley with a visit to Chinchero, a charming Andean town that was once an important Inca agricultural and ceremonial center. Here, we will admire its impressive stone walls in the main plaza and enjoy breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley, with the Urubamba mountain range and the majestic Salkantay peak in the distance.
Next, we head to the famous Maras salt mines, an incredible network of more than 3,000 salt pools carved into the mountainside and used since pre-Inca times. We then explore the circular terraces of Moray, which, according to studies, served as an advanced agricultural laboratory for the Incas.
Afterward, we will enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, savoring Andean cuisine in a spectacular setting.
In the afternoon, we continue to Ollantaytambo, one of the last remaining Inca towns. Here, we will visit its impressive archaeological site, featuring massive terraces and ancient temples that will transport us back to the Inca era.
At the end of the day, we will settle into our hotel in Ollantaytambo, where you can relax and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Sacred Valley.
Meals: Lunch included.
Day 4: Discovering the Marvel of Machu Picchu
From our hotel, we head to the Ollantaytambo train station, where we board an early morning train to Machu Picchu. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, following the scenic course of the Urubamba River through stunning Andean landscapes.
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, we take the CONSETUR bus up to the entrance of Machu Picchu. The ride takes around 30 minutes, ascending through lush cloud forest to reach the citadel.
We will enjoy a guided tour of approximately 2.5 hours, exploring its impressive structures and uncovering the mysteries surrounding this incredible wonder. After the tour, you’ll have free time to continue exploring on your own or simply take in the breathtaking scenery.
In the afternoon, we take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes, where we will spend the night at the charming El Mapi Hotel, offering a well-deserved rest in a beautiful setting.
Meals: Not included.
Day 5: Machu Picchu 2nd day Expedition and return to cusco
This morning, we arrive at the Machu Picchu ruins early, just in time for the opening, and take in the breathtaking views as the morning light transforms the landscape.
For those seeking adventure, there is the option to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. The Machu Picchu Mountain hike takes a minimum of 2.5 hours, while Huayna Picchu takes around 1.5 hours, plus time to enjoy the stunning views from the top. Both hikes are steep, with narrow and sometimes slippery steps, and feature vertiginous drops. For this reason, all participants are required to sign a waiver form. (Note: Huayna Picchu permits are limited and sell out quickly.)
In the afternoon, we descend from Machu Picchu and head to the Aguas Calientes train station to board our train back to Ollantaytambo. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.
Upon arrival, our representative will meet us for our private transfer to Cusco, which takes around 1.5 hours. We will check in at Casona Antigua San Blas, a charming hotel in the heart of the city, to rest and enjoy the evening.
Meals: Not included.
Day 6: Free day to Explore Cusco
Enjoy a relaxing day in Cusco, perfect for unwinding and exploring at your own pace.
Take the opportunity to browse the city’s many artisan markets, where you’ll find a fantastic selection of locally crafted goods, including luxurious alpaca sweaters and hats, intricate ceramics, vibrant weavings, and traditional Andean instruments.
If you’re looking for more adventure, there are several optional day trips available in and around Cusco, which can be booked locally.
Meals: Not included.
Day 7: Trip Concludes in Cusco: Farewell and Departure
After breakfast, we will transfer you to the airport, where you will board your flight to Lima.
As your journey comes to an end, we hope that you leave with unforgettable memories of Peru’s rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality.
If time allows before your flight, you may take a final stroll through Cusco, enjoying a last cup of Peruvian coffee or picking up some last-minute souvenirs to take home.
Thank you for traveling with us, and we look forward to warmly welcoming you back for another adventure in Peru!
Meals: Breakfast included.
Includes
- Breakfasts provided by hotel
- Meals: as mentioned in the itinerary
- Airport transfer in and out.
- Private tour guide.
- Accommodations in Cusco⭐⭐⭐
- Accommodations in Sacred Valley (Ollantaytambo) ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
- Accommodations in Aguas Calientes (Machupicchu pueblo) ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Private transportation with air conditioned
- Train to Machu Picchu.
- Entrance to all archeological sites
- Entrance to Machupicchu Sanctuary
- Entrance to Huaynapicchu
- First Aid Kit
- Amenities
- Support and asistance during all the tour
What’s Not included
- International and domestic flights.
- Dinner
- Gratuities.
- Travel Insurance
Packing List
To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience during your journey through Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu, we recommend bringing the following essentials:
Clothing:
- Lightweight and breathable clothing for warm daytime temperatures.
- Warm layers, including a fleece or jacket, for cool mornings and evenings.
- A waterproof jacket or poncho in case of rain.
- Comfortable hiking pants and t-shirts for outdoor activities.
- A hat or cap to protect yourself from the sun.
- Gloves and a scarf (especially if traveling between May and September).
Footwear:
- Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers for city tours and short walks.
- Sturdy hiking boots with good traction for Machu Picchu and other archaeological sites.
- Sandals or lightweight shoes for relaxing at your hotel.
Accessories & Essentials:
- A small backpack for day trips.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen (high SPF recommended).
- Lip balm and moisturizer to protect against dry mountain air.
- A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
- Insect repellent, especially for Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley.
- Personal medications and a basic first-aid kit.
- Camera or smartphone for capturing incredible moments.
Documents & Money:
- Passport (required for train travel and entrance to Machu Picchu).
- Printed or digital copies of your travel documents and reservations.
- Cash (small bills) for souvenirs, snacks, and optional activities.
- Credit/debit card for larger purchases and hotel expenses.
Additional Recommendations:
- Snacks like energy bars, nuts, and dried fruit for long days of exploration.
- Extra batteries or a power bank for your devices.
- Swimwear if you plan to visit the thermal baths in Aguas Calientes.
By packing wisely, you’ll be fully prepared to enjoy the wonders of Cusco, Machu Picchu, and beyond!
Location the Best Cusco to Machu Picchu Exclusive Packages
Travel Information
- Packing Recommendations: Comfortable walking shoes, light layers, rain gear, sun protection, and a small backpack for excursions
- Duration: 7 days / 6 nights
- Starting Point: Cusco Airport (pickup included)
- Ending Point: Cusco Airport (drop-off included)
- Group Size: 2 and up
- Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate (some walking involved at archaeological sites and optional hikes)
- Altitude: Cusco: 3,400 m (11,150 ft), Machu Picchu: 2,430 m (7,970 ft), Huayna Picchu: 2,720 m (8,920 ft)
- Best Time to Visit: April to October (dry season offers the best conditions)
- Weather: Varies by location; Cusco has cool mornings and warm afternoons, while Machu Picchu has a more humid climate
- Accommodations: Comfortable hotels in Cusco, Ollantaytambo, and Aguas Calientes (upgrades available upon request)
- Train Options: Expedition or Vistadome trains available for a scenic journey to Machu Picchu
- Transportation: Private vehicles for all transfers and guided tours
- Meals: Daily breakfast included, plus select lunches as mentioned in the itinerary
- Optional Activities: Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain hike (advance booking required)
Getting to Cusco
Cusco is served by Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ), the main gateway to the region. Most travelers fly in from Lima (approximately 1 hour 20 minutes). Airlines operating this route include LATAM, Sky Airline, and Avianca, with multiple daily departures. Domestic flights from Arequipa and other Peruvian cities are also available. Our team will meet you at the arrivals hall and transfer you directly to your hotel — no navigation stress on day one.
Altitude & Acclimatization Tips for Cusco and Machu Picchu
One of the most important factors to prepare for on any Cusco and Machu Picchu tour is the altitude difference between destinations:
| Location | Altitude |
|---|---|
| Cusco | 3,400 m / 11,150 ft |
| Ollantaytambo | 2,792 m / 9,160 ft |
| Aguas Calientes | 2,040 m / 6,693 ft |
| Machu Picchu | 2,430 m / 7,972 ft |
| Huayna Picchu | 2,720 m / 8,923 ft |
| Machu Picchu Mountain | 3,082 m / 10,111 ft |
Tips to avoid altitude sickness (soroche):
- Arrive in Cusco at least one day before any physical activity
- Drink 2–3 liters of water daily
- Avoid alcohol and heavy meals your first 24 hours
- Drink coca tea — available at your hotel and local markets
- Consider acetazolamide (Diamox) — consult your doctor before travel
- Rest on Day 1; don't push yourself
Best Time to Visit Cusco and Machu Picchu
| Season | Months | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Season | April – October | Clear skies, ideal for hiking, busiest period |
| Wet Season | November – March | Lush landscapes, fewer crowds, occasional trail closures |
| Peak Month | June – July | Inti Raymi festival, maximum demand — book early |
Our recommendation: Travel between May and September for the best balance of weather, visibility at Machu Picchu, and trail conditions for Huayna Picchu.
Transportation Throughout the Tour
All ground transportation is private and air-conditioned, ensuring comfort and flexibility at every stage of the journey.
- Airport transfers: Private vehicle, included on Day 1 and Day 7
- Cusco city tour: Private vehicle with driver
- Sacred Valley: Full-day private transport
- Train to Machu Picchu: Vistadome or Expedition train from Ollantaytambo (scenic route along the Urubamba River, approx. 1h 40min)
- Bus at Machu Picchu: CONSETTUR buses from Aguas Calientes to the citadel entrance (approx. 30 min, included)
- Return transfer: Train to Ollantaytambo + private vehicle to Cusco
Accommodations
All hotels are handpicked for location, comfort, and authentic Andean character. Upgrades to 4★ and 5★ hotels are available upon request.
| Night | Location | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Nights 1, 2, 5 & 6 | Cusco | 3★ boutique hotel |
| Night 3 | Ollantaytambo | 3★ hotel |
| Nights 4 | Aguas Calientes | 4★ El Mapi Hotel |
Meals & Dining
| Day | Meals Included |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Not included |
| Day 2 | Not included |
| Day 3 | Lunch ✅ |
| Day 4 | Not included |
| Day 5 | Not included |
| Day 6 | Not included |
| Day 7 | Breakfast ✅ |
Daily breakfast is provided by your hotel throughout the tour. Your guide will recommend the best local restaurants for lunches and dinners not included — from traditional Peruvian chicherías to Cusco's award-winning contemporary cuisine.
Entrance Tickets & Permits
| Site | Ticket Included |
|---|---|
| Qoricancha Temple | ✅ |
| Sacsayhuamán | ✅ |
| Qenqo, Puka Pukara & Tambomachay | ✅ |
| Chinchero | ✅ |
| Maras Salt Mines | ✅ |
| Moray Terraces | ✅ |
| Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site | ✅ |
| Machu Picchu Sanctuary | ✅ |
| Huayna Picchu Mountain | ✅ |
⚠️ Huayna Picchu permits are strictly limited to 400 visitors per day and sell out weeks or months in advance during peak season. Booking early guarantees your spot.
Physical Difficulty & Fitness Level
This tour is rated easy to moderate and is suitable for most travelers with average fitness. Here's what to expect physically:
| Activity | Effort Level |
|---|---|
| Cusco city walking tour | Easy |
| Sacred Valley sites | Easy |
| Machu Picchu guided tour | Moderate |
| Huayna Picchu hike | Challenging (steep, narrow steps) |
| Machu Picchu Mountain hike | Moderate–Challenging |
No prior trekking experience is required. Participants who choose Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain must sign a liability waiver at the entrance.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included in the tour price but is strongly recommended. Your policy should cover:
- Trip cancellation and interruption
- Emergency medical evacuation (essential at altitude)
- Lost or delayed luggage
- Flight delays or missed connections
We recommend purchasing insurance at the time of booking your international flights.
Visa & Entry Requirements
Peru does not require a visa for citizens of the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, the European Union, and most Latin American countries for stays under 90 days. A valid passport with at least 6 months of validity beyond your travel dates is required.
Always verify entry requirements with your country's embassy before travel, as regulations can change.
Currency & Payments
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Local Currency | Peruvian Sol (PEN) |
| Accepted Cards | Visa & Mastercard widely accepted |
| ATMs | Available in Cusco and Aguas Calientes |
| USD | Accepted at most tourist businesses |
| Tip | Carry small bills (S/10, S/20) for markets and tips |
Connectivity & Communication
- Cusco and Aguas Calientes have reliable WiFi in hotels and most restaurants
- Local SIM cards (Claro or Movistar) are inexpensive and available at the airport
- Signal at Machu Picchu: limited inside the citadel — enjoy the disconnection
- Emergency contact: our team is reachable by WhatsApp throughout your tour
Frecuendly asked questions
Most travelers find that 7 days is the ideal length for a Cusco and Machu Picchu trip. This allows one full day for acclimatization in Cusco, a complete Sacred Valley exploration, two days at Machu Picchu (including an optional mountain hike), and a free day to explore Cusco’s markets and cuisine at your own pace. Shorter itineraries of 4–5 days are possible but leave little margin for altitude adjustment or unhurried exploration.
Absolutely. A 7-day tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu allows you to experience the full context of the Inca Empire — not just the citadel itself. Arriving after two days in Cusco and the Sacred Valley means you understand the civilization before you stand inside its greatest achievement. Travelers who do this consistently rate it as one of the most meaningful travel experiences of their lives.
The most scenic and practical route is by train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, followed by a CONSETTUR bus up to the Machu Picchu entrance. The Vistadome train (included in this tour) offers panoramic windows and takes approximately 1 hour 40 minutes through the Urubamba River canyon. Driving directly to Machu Picchu is not possible — the train is the primary access for tourists.
Yes — Machu Picchu tickets must be booked in advance, especially between May and September when daily visitor caps fill quickly. The Peruvian government limits daily entries to protect the site. Our tour includes your Machu Picchu entrance ticket as part of the package, so your access is secured from the moment you book with us.
Yes, and this tour includes it. Huayna Picchu — the iconic steep mountain rising behind the citadel — is one of the most sought-after hikes in South America. Permits are limited to just 400 people per day and are divided into two time slots (7:00–8:00 AM and 10:00–11:00 AM). Because permits sell out weeks in advance during high season, booking your 7-day tour early is the best way to guarantee your Huayna Picchu spot.
Both hikes offer extraordinary views, but they differ significantly in character:
| Huayna Picchu | Machu Picchu Mountain | |
|---|---|---|
| Elevation gain | ~360 m | ~600 m |
| Duration | ~1.5 hours up | ~2.5 hours up |
| Difficulty | Very steep, exposed | Steep but more gradual |
| Views | Citadel from above | Broader valley panorama |
| Daily permit limit | 400 people | 800 people |
Huayna Picchu is more dramatic and photogenic; Machu Picchu Mountain is better for those who prefer a steadier climb with fewer crowds at the top.
The Sacred Valley is one of the most underrated highlights of any Peru itinerary. Sites like the Maras salt mines (over 3,000 terraced salt pools still in use since Inca times), the circular terraces of Moray, and the fortress of Ollantaytambo offer context that makes Machu Picchu even more meaningful. Skipping the Sacred Valley to save time is the most common regret among travelers who have done it. This 7-day tour dedicates a full day to it.
Pack in layers — conditions vary drastically between Cusco (cool and dry), the Sacred Valley (warm afternoons), and Machu Picchu (humid and changeable). Essentials include:
- Sturdy walking shoes or light hiking boots
- Waterproof jacket or poncho
- Sun protection (SPF 50+, sunglasses, hat)
- Reusable water bottle
- Small daypack for excursions
- Passport (required for train boarding and Machu Picchu entry)
- Cash in small Peruvian Sol bills
Our 7-day Cusco and Machu Picchu private tour starts at $1,750 USD per person. This includes private transport, a certified bilingual guide, all entrance tickets (including Huayna Picchu), train tickets, and accommodations with daily breakfast. The price varies depending on hotel category, travel dates, and group size. Contact us for a custom quote — private tours for couples often cost less per person than joining a group tour with a larger operator.
Yes — this is actually the ideal itinerary for first-time visitors to Peru. The 7-day structure is specifically designed to ease travelers into the altitude, cover the most iconic sites without rushing, and provide full private support at every step. You don’t need prior trekking experience, Spanish language skills, or knowledge of local logistics. Your guide handles everything, from airport pickup on Day 1 to your farewell transfer on Day 7.
