6 Day Discovering Cusco & Machu Picchu
Overview
Discover the magic of Cusco, the former Inca capital, where ancient ruins and colonial heritage
blend seamlessly. Walk through the historic streets of this UNESCO-listed city, exploring the
impressive temples of Sacsayhuamán and Qorikancha, as well as Cusco’s
Cathedral, home to stunning colonial art and archaeological treasures.
Venture into the breathtaking Sacred Valley of the Incas, a land of picturesque
landscapes and ancient engineering marvels. Visit the circular terraces of Moray, the
salt mines of Maras, and the fortress of Ollantaytambo, before boarding the train
to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.
The highlight of your journey awaits—Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas. Enjoy a
private guided tour, learning about its history and mysteries while taking in its
breathtaking surroundings. Afterward, you’ll have free time to explore at your own pace. If time
allows, you can add an optional private city tour of Lima, visiting the Larco
Museum, the San Francisco Monastery, and the scenic Miraflores district.
This six-day adventure offers a perfect combination of history, nature, and culture,
ensuring an unforgettable experience while we take care of every detail.
Highlights:
- Explore Cusco: Wander through the streets of the ancient Inca capital, visiting Qorikancha, Sacsayhuamán, and Cusco Cathedral.
- Discover the Sacred Valley: Admire the Moray agricultural terraces, the unique Maras salt mines, and the Ollantaytambo fortress.
- Experience Machu Picchu: Enjoy a private guided tour of the legendary Inca citadel, followed by free time to explore at your own pace.
- Scenic Train Journey: Travel through breathtaking Andean landscapes aboard the Vistadome or Expedition train.
- Optional Lima City Tour: If time allows, explore Lima’s historic center, Larco Museum, and Miraflores district.
- Immerse Yourself in Culture: Experience the vibrant traditions, exquisite cuisine, and warm hospitality of Peru.
Details for: 6 Day Discovering Cusco & Machu Picchu
Price per person
$ 1420.00 USDDiscover the majesty of Machu Picchu
Travel Information
- Duration: 6 days / 5 nights
- Starting Point: Cusco Airport / hotel (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)
- Altitude: Cusco: 3,399 m (11,152 ft), Machu Picchu: 2,430 m (7,972 ft)
- Best Time to Visit: April to November (dry season offers the best conditions)
- Weather: Varies by location; expect cool mornings and warm afternoons in Cusco and Machu Picchu
- Accommodations: Comfortable hotels in Cusco and Aguas Calientes (upgrades available upon request)
- Train Options: Expedition or Vistadome trains available for a scenic journey to Machu Picchu
- Optional Tour: Lima city tour available before or after the main itinerary
Welcome to Peru! Today is a transit day, allowing you to settle in after
your long journey. Depending on your arrival time, you have different
accommodation options to start your adventure comfortably.
If you arrive late at night and have a connecting flight to Cusco, we recommend staying at the Costa del Sol Hotel, conveniently located just across from Lima’s airport. This provides a restful night before continuing your journey.
For those arriving in the morning or afternoon, you may choose to stay in Miraflores, Lima’s beautiful coastal district. One of our representatives will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel, ensuring a smooth and stress-free transfer. In Miraflores, we offer various options to help you make the most of your day, whether it’s enjoying oceanfront views, exploring local markets, or dining at some of Lima’s renowned restaurants.
Meals: Not Included
If you arrive late at night and have a connecting flight to Cusco, we recommend staying at the Costa del Sol Hotel, conveniently located just across from Lima’s airport. This provides a restful night before continuing your journey.
For those arriving in the morning or afternoon, you may choose to stay in Miraflores, Lima’s beautiful coastal district. One of our representatives will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel, ensuring a smooth and stress-free transfer. In Miraflores, we offer various options to help you make the most of your day, whether it’s enjoying oceanfront views, exploring local markets, or dining at some of Lima’s renowned restaurants.
Meals: Not Included
Upon arriving in Cusco from Lima, you’ll ascend from sea level to an
altitude of 11,000 feet (3,400 m). To make the most of the
day and acclimate properly, we recommend taking an early flight.
In the afternoon, we’ll embark on a half-day city tour, exploring the remarkable Four Archaeological Sites:
– Sacsayhuamán: A massive Inca fortress with impressive stone walls.
– Qenqo: A ceremonial site carved into natural rock formations.
– Puka Pukara: An ancient military fortress with stunning views.
– Tambomachay: A site dedicated to the worship of water.
Next, we visit Qorikancha, the revered Temple of the Sun, and conclude at Cusco’s Cathedral, where you’ll admire stunning colonial-era art from the Cusco School of Art.
Additionally, your guide will offer recommendations for an excellent lunch and dinner, ensuring you experience the best of Cusco’s local cuisine.
Meals: Not Included
In the afternoon, we’ll embark on a half-day city tour, exploring the remarkable Four Archaeological Sites:
– Sacsayhuamán: A massive Inca fortress with impressive stone walls.
– Qenqo: A ceremonial site carved into natural rock formations.
– Puka Pukara: An ancient military fortress with stunning views.
– Tambomachay: A site dedicated to the worship of water.
Next, we visit Qorikancha, the revered Temple of the Sun, and conclude at Cusco’s Cathedral, where you’ll admire stunning colonial-era art from the Cusco School of Art.
Additionally, your guide will offer recommendations for an excellent lunch and dinner, ensuring you experience the best of Cusco’s local cuisine.
Meals: Not Included
Our adventure begins in Tipón, an impressive example of
Inca hydraulic engineering. This archaeological site
features sophisticated terraces and water channels that still function
today, showcasing the ingenuity of the Incas in water management and
agricultural development.
Next, we explore Pikillacta, a vast pre-Inca city built by the Wari culture. Known for its well-preserved adobe structures and advanced urban planning, this site dates back over a thousand years. Walking through its wide streets and high walls offers a fascinating glimpse into one of the most influential pre-Columbian civilizations.
After our visit to Pikillacta, we will enjoy a delicious lunch en route, allowing us to taste local flavors and recharge for the rest of our journey.
Our final stop is Andahuaylillas, home to the famous “Sistine Chapel of the Americas.” This stunning baroque church boasts intricate colonial-era frescoes and golden altars, making it a true artistic treasure. Its beautifully preserved interior, adorned with elaborate paintings and murals, is a highlight of the journey.
At the end of the tour, we return to Cusco, dropping you off comfortably at your hotel.
Meals: Lunch Included
Next, we explore Pikillacta, a vast pre-Inca city built by the Wari culture. Known for its well-preserved adobe structures and advanced urban planning, this site dates back over a thousand years. Walking through its wide streets and high walls offers a fascinating glimpse into one of the most influential pre-Columbian civilizations.
After our visit to Pikillacta, we will enjoy a delicious lunch en route, allowing us to taste local flavors and recharge for the rest of our journey.
Our final stop is Andahuaylillas, home to the famous “Sistine Chapel of the Americas.” This stunning baroque church boasts intricate colonial-era frescoes and golden altars, making it a true artistic treasure. Its beautifully preserved interior, adorned with elaborate paintings and murals, is a highlight of the journey.
At the end of the tour, we return to Cusco, dropping you off comfortably at your hotel.
Meals: Lunch Included
We leave Cusco and head to the Chinchero
Plateau to explore this important Inca town. Its most striking
legacy is the massive stone wall in the main square, featuring ten
trapezoidal niches. From here, you can admire the stunning views of the
Sacred Valley of the Incas, with the Urubamba
mountain range and the majestic Salkantay peak
dominating the western horizon. Chinchero is believed to be the mythical
birthplace of the rainbow.
Next, we visit the Maras Salt Mines, an ancient salt production site dating back to pre-Inca times, with over 3,000 salt pools carved into the mountainside. We then explore the mysterious circular terraces of Moray, which, according to some scholars, served as an Inca agricultural research center.
After enjoying a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, we continue to the archaeological site of Ollantaytambo, where you’ll walk through its impressive terraces and Inca temples.
Finally, we head to our hotel in the Sacred Valley, where you can relax and soak in the beauty of this breathtaking region.
Meals: Lunch Included
Next, we visit the Maras Salt Mines, an ancient salt production site dating back to pre-Inca times, with over 3,000 salt pools carved into the mountainside. We then explore the mysterious circular terraces of Moray, which, according to some scholars, served as an Inca agricultural research center.
After enjoying a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, we continue to the archaeological site of Ollantaytambo, where you’ll walk through its impressive terraces and Inca temples.
Finally, we head to our hotel in the Sacred Valley, where you can relax and soak in the beauty of this breathtaking region.
Meals: Lunch Included
We will start the day with a transfer from your Sacred Valley
hotel to the train station in Ollantaytambo.
Here, we will board the Expedition train to Aguas
Calientes – Machu Picchu, a journey of approximately 1
hour and 40 minutes, offering stunning views of the
Urubamba River and the surrounding cloud forest.
Upon arrival, we will take the CONSETUR bus up to the entrance of the Machu Picchu Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, we will begin our approximately 2.5-hour guided tour, exploring the most iconic areas of the Inca citadel, including the Main Plaza, Temple of the Three Windows, Intihuatana, and other fascinating sites. This experience promises to be one of the most magical and memorable moments of your journey.
After the tour, we will take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes, where you will have some free time to explore and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant (not included). Your guide will provide recommendations for dining options.
Later in the afternoon, we will board the train back to Ollantaytambo, with a journey time of approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. Upon arrival, a private vehicle will transfer you to Cusco, a 1.5-hour drive. Estimated arrival at your hotel in Cusco is between 7:30 PM and 8:00 PM.
Meals: Not Included
Upon arrival, we will take the CONSETUR bus up to the entrance of the Machu Picchu Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, we will begin our approximately 2.5-hour guided tour, exploring the most iconic areas of the Inca citadel, including the Main Plaza, Temple of the Three Windows, Intihuatana, and other fascinating sites. This experience promises to be one of the most magical and memorable moments of your journey.
After the tour, we will take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes, where you will have some free time to explore and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant (not included). Your guide will provide recommendations for dining options.
Later in the afternoon, we will board the train back to Ollantaytambo, with a journey time of approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. Upon arrival, a private vehicle will transfer you to Cusco, a 1.5-hour drive. Estimated arrival at your hotel in Cusco is between 7:30 PM and 8:00 PM.
Meals: Not Included
One of our representatives will pick you up from your hotel
and take you to the Cusco airport for your flight to
Lima.
Optional Recommended Excursion – Depending on the time of your international flight, you can explore Lima with a guided tour. Visit the Larco Museum, home to an extensive collection of pre-Columbian art, the San Francisco Monastery with its eerie catacombs, and Lima’s historic colonial plazas. Conclude your visit in the Miraflores district, where you can enjoy stunning ocean views and a taste of Peru’s renowned gastronomy.
Optional Recommended Excursion – Depending on the time of your international flight, you can explore Lima with a guided tour. Visit the Larco Museum, home to an extensive collection of pre-Columbian art, the San Francisco Monastery with its eerie catacombs, and Lima’s historic colonial plazas. Conclude your visit in the Miraflores district, where you can enjoy stunning ocean views and a taste of Peru’s renowned gastronomy.
What’s Included
- 5 nights in our preferred properties, hand-selected for comfort, convenience and quality.
- Private tours Guide.
- Private Transportation.
- Pick up form the Airport with a PAD Representative.
- Accommodations in Lima⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Accommodations in Ollantaytambo(Sacred Valley) ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
- Accommodations in Aguas Calientes (Machupicchu pueblo) ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Accommodations in Cusco ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
- Round-trip train to Machu Picchu Pueblo
- Round-trip CONSETUR bus
- Machupicchu Entrance Ticket
- Entrance ticket to all archeologial sites
- All breakfasts (provided by the Hotel)
- 2 days lunch in Sacred Valley and South Valley
- Support and assistance during all the tour.
- International and domestic flights and taxes.
- Huaynapicchu entrance ticket
- Optional Miraflores Tour in Lima
- Gratuities
- Insurance
Packing List
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!
– 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 for: 6 Day Discovering Cusco & Machu Picchu
Frecuendly asked questions
1. What is the best time of year to visit Cusco and Machu
Picchu?
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to September, when there is less rain and clearer skies. However, Machu Picchu is open year-round, and the green landscapes of the rainy season (November to April) also offer a beautiful experience.
2. How difficult is the Machu Picchu tour? Do I need to be in good shape?
The guided tour of Machu Picchu involves walking on uneven terrain, stairs, and some inclines. While most visitors can complete it without issues, we recommend being in moderate physical condition. If you plan to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, a higher fitness level is needed.
3. Will I have issues with altitude sickness in Cusco?
Cusco is located at 3,400 meters (11,155 feet) above sea level, so some visitors may experience mild symptoms like headaches or shortness of breath. We recommend taking it easy on the first day, staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol, and drinking coca tea to help with acclimatization.
4. What type of train tickets are included in the tour?
This tour includes an Expedition train ticket for both the journey to and from Machu Picchu. If you prefer to upgrade to the Vistadome train, which offers panoramic windows for better views, let us know in advance.
5. Can I store my luggage somewhere before going to Machu Picchu?
Yes, hotels in Cusco and the Sacred Valley usually offer luggage storage services. For the trip to Machu Picchu, we recommend bringing only a small backpack, as train regulations limit large suitcases.
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to September, when there is less rain and clearer skies. However, Machu Picchu is open year-round, and the green landscapes of the rainy season (November to April) also offer a beautiful experience.
2. How difficult is the Machu Picchu tour? Do I need to be in good shape?
The guided tour of Machu Picchu involves walking on uneven terrain, stairs, and some inclines. While most visitors can complete it without issues, we recommend being in moderate physical condition. If you plan to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, a higher fitness level is needed.
3. Will I have issues with altitude sickness in Cusco?
Cusco is located at 3,400 meters (11,155 feet) above sea level, so some visitors may experience mild symptoms like headaches or shortness of breath. We recommend taking it easy on the first day, staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol, and drinking coca tea to help with acclimatization.
4. What type of train tickets are included in the tour?
This tour includes an Expedition train ticket for both the journey to and from Machu Picchu. If you prefer to upgrade to the Vistadome train, which offers panoramic windows for better views, let us know in advance.
5. Can I store my luggage somewhere before going to Machu Picchu?
Yes, hotels in Cusco and the Sacred Valley usually offer luggage storage services. For the trip to Machu Picchu, we recommend bringing only a small backpack, as train regulations limit large suitcases.
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