Embark on the ultimate 8-day Cusco and Machu Picchu tour, a private luxury journey through the heart of the ancient Inca Empire. From the cobblestone streets of Cusco to the mystical terraces of Machu Picchu, every day is crafted to immerse you in Peru’s most iconic landscapes and living history.
Explore the Sacred Valley at your own pace, visiting Ollantaytambo, Pisac, and the Maras Salt Mines with an expert private guide. Board a scenic Vistadome train through the cloud forest and arrive at the Lost City of the Incas in style. Stay in hand-picked luxury hotels, savor world-class Peruvian cuisine, and experience Andean culture up close.
Designed for small groups of 2 or more, this 8-day Peru tour is ideal for travelers seeking a deep, comfortable, and authentic connection with one of the world’s greatest civilizations. Limited availability — reserve your dates today.
Overview
This 8-day private luxury tour takes you through the most iconic destinations of the ancient Inca world — from the cobblestone streets of Cusco to the mist-shrouded terraces of Machu Picchu, passing through the timeless landscapes of the Sacred Valley. Every detail is arranged for you: private guides, hand-picked hotels, and a scenic Vistadome train through the cloud forest. All you need to do is show up and experience it.
Day-by-day route
Day 1: Arrival in Lima – Rest & Recharge
- Arrival in Lima and welcome by the PAD team.
- Transfer to the airport hotel.
- Time to rest and prepare for the journey ahead.
- Overnight near Lima Airport.
Day 2: Sacred Valley Highlights
- Early flight to Cusco.
- Visit Chinchero and its traditional artisan market.
- Explore the Maras Salt Mines.
- Discover the agricultural terraces of Moray.
- Enjoy a traditional Andean lunch.
- Overnight in Yucay, Sacred Valley.
Day 3: Sacred Valley Discovery
- Explore the Inca town of Ollantaytambo.
- Visit the Temple of the Sun and ancient Inca streets.
- Buffet lunch in Urubamba.
- Visit Pisac Market and Pisac Archaeological Site.
- Return to hotel in the Sacred Valley.
Day 4: Luxury Journey to Machu Picchu
- Scenic Vistadome Observatory train ride.
- Travel through the cloud forest to Aguas Calientes.
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu.
- Explore the most iconic sectors of the citadel.
- Overnight in Aguas Calientes.
Day 5: Machu Picchu & Return to Cusco
- Optional hike to Huayna Picchu.
- Additional free time at Machu Picchu.
- Train back to Ollantaytambo.
- Private transfer to Cusco.
- Overnight in Cusco.
Day 6: Free Day in Cusco
- Leisure day to explore Cusco independently.
- Private vehicle and driver available.
- Time for shopping, sightseeing, or relaxation.
- Enjoy Cusco’s gastronomy at your own pace.
Day 7: Cusco City Tour
- Visit Plaza de Armas and the historic center.
- Explore Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun).
- Discover Sacsayhuamán fortress.
- Visit Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay.
- Free afternoon in Cusco.
Day 8: Departure from Cusco
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Transfer to Cusco Airport.
- Flight to Lima and international connection.
- End of services and farewell to Peru.
Tour at a Glance
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Duration | 8 days / 7 nights |
| Group type | Private, 2+ travelers |
| Price from | $2,050 USD per person |
| Max altitude | 3,400 m (Cusco) |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Starts in | Lima → Cusco |
| Languages | English / Spanish |
| Best season | May – September |
What Makes This Tour Special
- Private city tour of Cusco – Sacsayhuamán, Qorikancha and Plaza de Armas with an expert guide exclusively for your group.
- Full-day Sacred Valley – Ollantaytambo, Pisac market, Maras salt mines and Moray agricultural terraces.
- Vistadome luxury train – Panoramic windows through the cloud forest all the way to Aguas Calientes.
- Two full days at Machu Picchu – Private guided tour plus optional Huayna Picchu hike (limited to 400 visitors per day).
- Luxury hand-picked hotels – Sonesta Posada del Inca, El Mapi by Inkaterra and more.
- World-class Peruvian cuisine – Guided restaurant recommendations and gourmet dinners in Aguas Calientes.
This Tour Is Ideal For
- Couples and honeymooners looking for a romantic and cultural escape
- Small families or groups of 2 to 6 travelers
- First-time visitors to Peru wanting to see the highlights in depth
- History and culture lovers passionate about the Inca civilization
- Comfort-focused travelers who prefer private, well-organized experiences
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Lima – Rest & Recharge
Welcome to Peru!
Upon arrival in Lima, your Peru Andes Discovery (PAD) host will welcome you and escort you to the Wyndham Costa Del Sol Hotel, conveniently located at Lima’s airport. Since most international flights arrive late at night and flights to Cusco depart early in the morning, staying at this comfortable airport hotel ensures you get the rest you need.
This way, you can start your journey feeling refreshed and ready for the adventures ahead.
Day 2: Arrival in Cusco – Exploring the Sacred Valley
Today, we will arrive in Cusco on the first flights, where we will pick you up and embark on a journey through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, visiting some of its most iconic sites.
We will start in Chinchero, a picturesque Andean village famous for its artisan market and colonial church, built atop ancient Inca walls.
Then, we will visit the Maras Salt Mines, an impressive collection of thousands of salt pools on the mountainside, used since Inca times.
Next, we will continue to Moray, a fascinating archaeological site with circular terraces that the Incas used as an agricultural laboratory.
Afterward, we will enjoy a delicious lunch featuring Andean flavors.
Finally, we will head to the Sonesta Posada del Inca Yucay hotel, a charming retreat in the Sacred Valley, where we will spend the night in a cozy and peaceful natural setting.
Meals: Lunch included
Day 3: Full-Day Exploration of the Sacred Valley
Enjoy a full-day tour exploring the best of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
We will pick you up from your hotel and head to Ollantaytambo, one of the last remaining Inca towns that has preserved its original urban layout.
Walk through its stone-paved streets, see ancient houses still in use, and climb up the Temple of the Sun, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the valley and the quarries from which the Incas sourced their massive stones.
Afterward, we’ll stop in Urubamba for a delicious buffet lunch featuring Andean and international cuisine.
Then, we’ll visit the charming town of Pisac, famous for its colorful artisan market, where you can shop for textiles, jewelry, and crafts.
Finally, we’ll explore the Pisac archaeological site, perched high above the valley, offering stunning terraces and impressive Inca structures.
The tour concludes with a comfortable return to your hotel, leaving you with unforgettable memories of this magical region.
Day 4: Luxury Experience in Machu Picchu
Enjoy a luxurious full-day experience in Machu Picchu.
We’ll start with a scenic Vistadome Observatory train ride from Ollantaytambo, where you can admire the stunning cloud forest through panoramic windows.
The train journey takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes to reach Aguas Calientes.
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, we’ll have an early lunch before taking the CONSETTUR bus up to Machu Picchu.
This bus ride takes around 30 minutes to reach the entrance of the sanctuary.
With our private guide, you’ll explore the most iconic sites of this Wonder of the World on a 2.5-hour tour, discovering its fascinating history and breathtaking views.
Afterward, we’ll return to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have time to relax before enjoying a gourmet dinner at your hotel.
You’ll spend the night at El Mapi by Inkaterra , a cozy and elegant retreat, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of the cloud forest.
Meals: Not included
Day 5: Machu Picchu 2nd day of Exploration
Day 5: Second Day in Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
On this second day, we will continue our luxury tour in Machu Picchu.
Feeling adventurous? You can challenge yourself by hiking the steep trail to Huayna Picchu, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Machu Picchu.
(Please note that only 400 people are allowed to climb Huayna Picchu each day, so tickets must be purchased in advance along with your Machu Picchu entrance.)
In the afternoon, back in Aguas Calientes, get ready to board the train to Ollantaytambo, where our private vehicle and a PAD representative will be waiting to transfer you to Cusco.
Upon arrival at Sonesta Posadas del Inca Cusco, check in and enjoy a well-deserved rest.
Meals: Not included
Day 6: Cusco Free Day
Enjoy a free day in Cusco with a private vehicle and driver at your disposal, giving you the flexibility to explore the city at your own pace.
Whether you prefer a relaxing morning, shopping for local crafts, or discovering hidden gems, your transport will be available whenever you need it.
For lunch and dinner, your guide will provide personalized restaurant recommendations based on your tastes, ensuring you enjoy the best of Cusco’s gastronomy.
Take the day to unwind, immerse yourself in the local atmosphere, and experience the city on your own terms, with the convenience of private transportation at all times.
Meals: Not included
Day 7: Cusco City Tour
On the seventh day, you will enjoy a private tour of Cusco, exploring its impressive historical and archaeological treasures.
Accompanied by your expert guide, you will begin the tour at the Plaza de Armas, the vibrant heart of the city, surrounded by majestic colonial churches and intricately carved wooden balconies.
Then, you will visit Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), the most important religious center of the Inca Empire, where the fusion of Inca and colonial architecture will leave you in awe.
Afterward, we will head to the Four Archaeological Ruins on the outskirts of Cusco.
At Sacsayhuamán, you will marvel at its massive stone walls and breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
In Qenqo, you will explore its mysterious labyrinth carved into rock.
We will continue to Puka Pukara, an ancient military control site, and finish at Tambomachay, a ceremonial site dedicated to the worship of water.
In the afternoon, you will have free time to continue exploring at your own pace or simply relax.
To end your day on a high note, your guide will provide restaurant recommendations where you can enjoy a pisco sour, a delicious lunch, and an exquisite dinner.
Meals: Not included
Day 8: Cusco to Lima and Home.
After breakfast, we will transfer you to the Cusco airport, ensuring you have a smooth and comfortable journey.
Upon arrival at the airport, our team will assist you with check-in for your flight to Lima.
As you take off, reflect on the unforgettable moments spent exploring Peru’s rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture.
Although this journey comes to an end, we hope the experiences and memories you’ve gathered will stay with you for a lifetime.
Thank you for allowing us to be part of your adventure, and we look forward to welcoming you back soon to discover even more of the wonders that Peru has to offer!
Includes
- 7 nights at our preferred properties, hand-selected for comfort, convenience and quality.
- Private guide
- Private Transport.
- Pick up from the Airport to your Hotel.
- Accommodations in Lima⭐⭐ ⭐ ⭐
- Accommodations in Cusco ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
- Accommodations in Yucay (Sacred Valley) ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
- Accommodations in Aguas Calientes (Machupicchu pueblo) ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Round-trip Vistadome train Machu Picchu Pueblo to Ollantaytambo
- CONSETUR Bus Round-trip
- All breakfasts (provided by the Hotel)
- 2 lunches in Sacred Valley
- Support and assistance during all the tour.
What’s Not included
- International and domestic flights and taxes.
- Gratuities.
- Insurance
Packing List
Clothing:
- Comfortable hiking pants and shorts.
- Lightweight long-sleeve shirts for sun protection.
- T-shirts and breathable tops.
- Warm layers (fleece or down jacket) for Cusco’s cooler evenings.
- Waterproof jacket or poncho.
- Hat or cap for sun protection.
- Gloves, scarf, and beanie (especially for colder months: May–September).
Footwear:
- Hiking boots with good grip and ankle support (recommended for Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu).
- Lightweight trekking shoes for walking on uneven terrain in the Sacred Valley and Cusco.
- Comfortable sneakers for casual city exploration.
- Sandals or casual shoes for relaxing at your hotel.
Accessories:
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Small daypack for daily excursions.
- Reusable water bottle.
- Camera or smartphone with extra memory cards.
- Travel adapter (Peru uses 220V, Type A & C plugs).
Toiletries & Personal Care:
- Sunscreen (high SPF) and lip balm with SPF.
- Insect repellent (especially for Machu Picchu & the Sacred Valley).
- Personal medications and a small first-aid kit.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
Documents & Money:
- Passport (valid for at least six months).
- Copies of important documents (passport, travel insurance, flight tickets).
- Credit/debit cards and some cash in small denominations (Peruvian soles).
- Travel insurance details.
Optional:
- Trekking poles (especially for Huayna Picchu hike).
- Snacks (granola bars, nuts, or dried fruits).
- Notebook or journal to document your experiences.
Pack smart and travel light to fully enjoy your adventure in Peru!
Location the 8 Day Experience to the Center of the Inca Empire
Travel Information
- Duration & Group: 8D/7N, private tour for 2+ travelers.
- Difficulty: Moderate, includes uneven terrain and optional strenuous hikes.
- Passport & Visa: Valid passport (6+ months). No visa for USA, Canada, UK, EU.
- Altitude: Cusco at 3,400m (11,150ft). Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol on arrival.
- Best Travel Time: May–Sep (dry, best weather), Nov–Mar (rainy, fewer crowds).
- Currency: Peruvian Sol (PEN). Cards accepted, cash useful for small purchases.
- Health & Safety: Drink bottled water, be cautious of pickpockets.
- Transport: Private transfers included. Train to Machu Picchu: 1h 40m, Bus: 30 min.
Best Time to Visit Cusco and Machu Picchu
The best time to take an 8-day Cusco and Machu Picchu tour is during the dry season, from May to September. During these months you'll enjoy clear skies, ideal trekking conditions, and stunning views of the Andes. July and August are the busiest months, so booking in advance is strongly recommended. The rainy season runs from November to March — crowds are smaller and landscapes are lush green, but afternoon showers are frequent. April and October are excellent shoulder months with a good balance of weather and fewer tourists.
| Season | Months | Weather | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry season (best) | May – September | Sunny, cold nights | High |
| Shoulder season | April, October | Mixed, occasional rain | Medium |
| Rainy season | November – March | Frequent afternoon rain | Low |
How to Get to Cusco
Most international travelers fly into Lima (Jorge Chávez International Airport) and connect to Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport in Cusco. The Lima–Cusco flight takes approximately 1 hour 20 minutes. Several airlines operate this route daily, including LATAM, Sky Airline, and Avianca. Your Peru Andes Discovery representative will meet you at Cusco airport and handle all transfers throughout the tour.
Passport, Visa and Entry Requirements
Nationality | Visa Required |
|---|---|
| USA, Canada, UK | No visa required |
| European Union | No visa required |
| Australia, New Zealand | No visa required |
| Other nationalities | Check with your local Peruvian consulate |
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates. Peru does not charge a tourist entry fee for most nationalities. Keep a copy of your passport and travel documents in a separate location at all times.
Altitude and Acclimatization in Cusco
Cusco sits at 3,400 m (11,150 ft) above sea level, which means altitude sickness (known locally as soroche) is a real possibility for first-time visitors. Machu Picchu is lower at 2,430 m (7,970 ft), making it more comfortable once you arrive.
Tips to acclimatize successfully:
- Rest on your first day in Cusco and avoid strenuous activity
- Drink at least 2–3 liters of water daily
- Avoid alcohol and heavy meals during the first 24–48 hours
- Drink mate de coca (coca leaf tea), widely available in hotels and restaurants
- If symptoms are severe, consult a doctor — acetazolamide (Diamox) can help when taken preventively
Currency and Payments in Peru
The official currency is the Peruvian Sol (PEN). Credit and debit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in Cusco and Aguas Calientes. However, cash is useful for markets, small purchases, and tipping.
| Expense | Recommended payment |
|---|---|
| Hotels and restaurants | Card or cash |
| Artisan markets (Pisac, Chinchero) | Cash (soles) |
| Tips for guides and drivers | Cash (soles or USD) |
| Small shops and street food | Cash (soles) |
ATMs are available throughout Cusco. Avoid exchanging money at airports — rates are significantly worse than in the city center.
Health and Vaccinations
No mandatory vaccinations are required to enter Peru. However, the following are recommended:
- Hepatitis A and B – Standard travel recommendation
- Typhoid – Recommended if you plan to eat at local markets
- Yellow fever – Required only if traveling to the Amazon jungle region
- Tetanus and routine vaccines – Ensure these are up to date
Drink only bottled or filtered water throughout your trip. Avoid ice in drinks unless you are in a high-end establishment. Carry a small personal first-aid kit with antihistamines, antidiarrheal medication, and pain relievers.
What to Wear and Pack for This Tour
Cusco and Machu Picchu have very different climates, so layering is key.
| Destination | Daytime Temp | Nighttime Temp | What to Wear |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cusco | 18–20°C (64–68°F) | 4–8°C (39–46°F) | Layers, warm jacket, comfortable shoes |
| Sacred Valley | 20–22°C (68–72°F) | 6–10°C (43–50°F) | Light layers, sun hat, sunscreen |
| Machu Picchu | 22–25°C (72–77°F) | 12–16°C (54–61°F) | Waterproof jacket, hiking shoes, insect repellent |
Safety Tips for Traveling in Cusco and Peru
Cusco is generally a safe destination for tourists. Follow these common-sense precautions for a worry-free trip:
- Keep your passport and valuables in your hotel safe
- Use only registered taxis or your private transport arranged by PAD
- Be cautious in crowded areas such as the Plaza de Armas and Pisac market
- Avoid displaying expensive cameras, jewelry, or large amounts of cash
- Only drink bottled water — tap water is not safe for consumption
- In case of emergency, the national tourist police number in Peru is 105
Connectivity and Communication
Wi-Fi is available in all hotels included in this tour. Signal quality varies between Cusco (good), the Sacred Valley (limited), and Aguas Calientes (moderate). If you need a local SIM card, Claro and Movistar are the two main providers with the best coverage across the Cusco region. SIM cards can be purchased at the airport or in the city center with your passport.
Frecuendly asked questions
Most travelers need a minimum of 7 to 8 days to experience Cusco and Machu Picchu properly. This gives you time to acclimatize to the altitude in Cusco, explore the Sacred Valley at a relaxed pace, and spend at least two full days at Machu Picchu. Rushing this trip in 4 or 5 days is possible but not recommended — altitude sickness affects many visitors and your body needs time to adjust before any physical activity.
Absolutely. An 8-day Cusco and Machu Picchu tour from the USA is one of the most complete and rewarding itineraries you can do in South America. The long-haul flight from cities like New York, Miami, or Los Angeles to Lima takes 6–8 hours, and a connecting flight to Cusco adds another 90 minutes. With 8 days on the ground you have enough time to recover from travel, explore all the key sites, and return home without feeling rushed.
The most comfortable and scenic way to reach Machu Picchu from Cusco is by taking a Vistadome or Hiram Bingham train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, followed by a 30-minute bus ride up the mountain to the citadel entrance. This is the route included in this 8-day private tour.
The Vistadome train offers large panoramic windows perfect for enjoying the cloud forest scenery. The journey from Ollantaytambo takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.
Yes — Machu Picchu entrance tickets must be booked well in advance, especially between May and September when the site reaches its daily visitor limit. The Peruvian government limits the number of visitors per day and assigns timed entry slots.
We strongly recommend booking at least 3 to 4 months in advance if you are traveling during high season. As part of this tour, Peru Andes Discovery handles all ticket reservations on your behalf.
Exploring Machu Picchu with a guide is considered moderate difficulty. The site involves walking on uneven stone paths and climbing stairs, but there are no extreme elevation gains once you are inside. Good walking shoes or light hiking boots are sufficient.
The optional Huayna Picchu hike is significantly more demanding — it involves a steep 45–60 minute climb with fixed cables and narrow steps, and is best suited for travelers with a reasonable fitness level and no fear of heights.
The Sacred Valley of the Incas is a fertile river valley located between Cusco and Machu Picchu, stretching along the Urubamba River at an altitude of approximately 2,800 m. It was one of the most important agricultural and ceremonial regions of the Inca Empire.
Today it is home to remarkable archaeological sites including Ollantaytambo (a living Inca town with a massive sun temple), Pisac (famous for its hilltop ruins and colorful artisan market), and Moray (circular terraces used as an agricultural laboratory). Visiting the Sacred Valley is essential to understanding the full scope of Inca civilization beyond Machu Picchu.
Altitude sickness is a genuine concern in Cusco, which sits at 3,400 m (11,150 ft). Common symptoms include headache, fatigue, nausea, and shortness of breath. Machu Picchu at 2,430 m is much lower and rarely causes problems.
The best strategy is to arrive in Cusco a day early, rest completely on arrival, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol. Drinking coca leaf tea helps many visitors. If you have a history of heart or respiratory conditions, consult your doctor before traveling to high altitude destinations in Peru.
This private luxury tour includes hand-picked accommodations at each destination. In Lima you stay at the Wyndham Costa Del Sol airport hotel for a comfortable overnight before your early flight. In the Sacred Valley, the Sonesta Posada del Inca Yucay offers a charming colonial atmosphere surrounded by Andean scenery.
In Aguas Calientes, El Mapi by Inkaterra is an elegant boutique hotel steps from the train station. In Cusco, the Sonesta Posadas del Inca Cusco places you within walking distance of the Plaza de Armas and the city’s main attractions.
Both are optional hikes that offer elevated views over the Machu Picchu citadel, but they are very different experiences. Huayna Picchu is the iconic steep peak seen in most photographs of Machu Picchu — the hike is short (about 45–60 minutes up) but very steep, with fixed cables and narrow stone steps. It is limited to 400 visitors per day and must be booked months in advance.
Machu Picchu Mountain is a longer, less steep hike (about 90 minutes up) that reaches a higher elevation and offers broader panoramic views of the entire valley. It is less crowded and easier to book but requires more time and stamina.
This 8-day private luxury tour of Cusco and Machu Picchu starts from $2,050 USD per person, based on two travelers sharing accommodation. The price includes 7 nights in luxury hotels, a private expert guide, all ground transport, the Vistadome train, CONSETTUR bus to Machu Picchu, all breakfasts, and 2 lunches.
Not included are international and domestic flights, travel insurance, gratuities, and optional activities such as the Huayna Picchu hike. For groups larger than 2, the price per person decreases — contact Peru Andes Discovery for a custom quote.
