Embark on an unforgettable 6 day Cusco and Machu Picchu tour designed for travelers who want to experience the heart of the Inca Empire without rushing. Over six days, you’ll explore the cobblestone streets of Cusco, the engineering wonders of the Sacred Valley, and the iconic citadel of Machu Picchu — all with a private expert guide by your side.
Walk through Qorikancha and Sacsayhuamán, marvel at the circular terraces of Moray and the Maras salt mines, and stand in awe at Ollantaytambo before boarding the scenic train to Machu Picchu. Your private guide ensures a deeply personal experience at every site.
This tour departs from Cusco, includes comfortable 3–4 star hotels, all entrance fees, and train tickets — everything handled so you can focus on the journey.
Overview
This 6 day Cusco and Machu Picchu tour is the most complete way to experience the heart of the Inca Empire without sacrificing comfort or depth. Designed for travelers who want more than a rushed highlight reel, this itinerary gives you enough time to truly connect with each destination — from the living Inca city of Cusco to the cloud-forest citadel of Machu Picchu — with a private expert guide handling every detail along the way.
You'll begin in Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, where massive stone temples sit beneath Spanish colonial churches and the streets still echo with centuries of history. Over six days, you'll venture into the breathtaking Sacred Valley of the Incas, explore pre-Inca ruins along the South Valley route, and finally stand at one of the most extraordinary places on Earth — Machu Picchu — with a private guide who brings it all to life.
This is not a generic group tour. Every transfer is private, your guide is dedicated exclusively to your group, and the pace is built around your experience — not a bus schedule.
What You Will Experience
Day 1: Arrival in Peru
- Arrive in Lima and meet your local representative.
- Transfer to your hotel near the airport or in Miraflores.
- Relax after your international flight.
- Free time to explore Lima’s coastal district.
Day 2: Cusco City Tour & Inca Heritage
- Flight to Cusco and altitude acclimatization.
- Visit Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay.
- Explore Qorikancha, the Temple of the Sun.
- Discover Cusco Cathedral and colonial art treasures.
Day 3: South Valley Exploration
- Visit the impressive Inca terraces of Tipón.
- Explore the ancient Wari city of Pikillacta.
- Enjoy a traditional Andean lunch.
- Discover Andahuaylillas, the “Sistine Chapel of the Americas.”
Day 4: Sacred Valley Adventure
- Explore the traditional village of Chinchero.
- Visit the Maras Salt Mines.
- Discover the circular terraces of Moray.
- Enjoy lunch in the Sacred Valley.
- Tour the impressive Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site.
- Overnight in the Sacred Valley.
Day 5: Machu Picchu Experience
- Scenic train journey through the Andes.
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu.
- Explore the most iconic sectors of the Inca citadel.
- Free time in Aguas Calientes.
- Return to Cusco by train and private transfer.
Day 6: Departure or Optional Lima Tour
- Transfer to Cusco Airport.
- Flight to Lima.
- Optional city tour of Lima’s historic and cultural landmarks.
- End of services.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Peru – Welcome
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
Day 2: Arrival in Cusco & Half-Day City Tour
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
Day 3: South Valley – Route of the Sun
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
Day 4: Sacred Valley Tour
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
Day 5: Machu Picchu Tour
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
Day 6: Departure from Cusco & Optional Lima Excursion – End of the Service
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.
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: 5 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.
- Meals: As specified in the itinerary.
What’s Not included
- 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!
Location for: 6 Day Discovering Cusco & 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
Best Time to Visit Cusco and Machu Picchu
The best time to take a Cusco and Machu Picchu tour is during the dry season, from April to November. May, June, and July offer the clearest skies and most comfortable temperatures for exploring archaeological sites. December through March brings the rainy season — trails can be muddy, but Machu Picchu surrounded by mist has its own dramatic beauty. If you plan to travel between June and August, book at least 3 months in advance, as Machu Picchu entrance tickets sell out quickly during peak season.
How to Get to Cusco from Lima
Most international travelers fly into Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima, then take a connecting domestic flight to Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport in Cusco. The flight from Lima to Cusco takes approximately 1 hour 20 minutes. Airlines such as LATAM, Sky, and JetSmart operate multiple daily flights. We recommend booking an early morning flight to Cusco to give your body the full day to begin acclimatizing to the altitude before activities start.
Altitude and Acclimatization in Cusco
Cusco sits at 3,399 m (11,152 ft) above sea level, and altitude sickness — known locally as soroche — is common among visitors arriving from sea level. Symptoms include headaches, fatigue, shortness of breath, and nausea. To minimize discomfort: arrive a day before activities begin, rest for the first few hours, drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol on day one, and try coca leaf tea, widely available in Cusco. Machu Picchu, at 2,430 m (7,972 ft), is significantly lower and generally easier to handle.
What to Expect at Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, visited by thousands of travelers daily. The citadel is divided into two main zones: the agricultural terraces and the urban sector. Your private guide will lead a 2.5-hour tour covering the Temple of the Three Windows, the Intihuatana stone, the Main Plaza, and the Royal Quarters. Wear comfortable walking shoes — the terrain is uneven and includes stairs. The site opens at 6:00 AM and closes at 5:30 PM. Entry is by timed ticket, so punctuality is essential.
Transportation & Train Options to Machu Picchu
The only way to reach Aguas Calientes (the town at the base of Machu Picchu) is by train or a multi-day trek. This tour includes Expedition train tickets departing from Ollantaytambo, with a scenic journey of approximately 1 hour 40 minutes through cloud forest and alongside the Urubamba River. For travelers who prefer panoramic windows and upgraded seating, the Vistadome train is available as an upgrade. From Aguas Calientes, CONSETTUR buses run every 10 minutes up the mountain to the Machu Picchu entrance gate.
Accommodation on This Tour
This 6 day Cusco and Machu Picchu tour includes 5 nights of accommodation: 4 nights in centrally-located 3–4 star hotels in Cusco and 1 night in Aguas Calientes, within walking distance of the train station. All hotels are carefully selected for comfort, location, and quality. Upgrades to 4-star and 5-star hotels — including options in the Sacred Valley — are available upon request. If you prefer to add a night in the Sacred Valley for a more immersive experience, our team can customize the itinerary.
Meals Included in This Tour
This tour includes lunches on Days 3 and 4 — a local restaurant meal on the South Valley route and a buffet lunch during the Sacred Valley day. Breakfasts are included at most hotels. Dinners and the lunch at Machu Picchu are on your own, giving you the freedom to explore Cusco's renowned restaurant scene. Your guide will recommend the best local options, from traditional cuy and lomo saltado to contemporary Peruvian cuisine. Cusco has a thriving food scene with restaurants to suit every budget.
Entry Requirements & Documents for Machu Picchu
A valid passport is mandatory to enter Machu Picchu — photocopies are not accepted. Your passport is also required to board the train to Aguas Calientes. Machu Picchu entrance tickets are purchased in advance and linked to your passport number, so it's essential that the name on your ticket matches your passport exactly. Citizens of most countries do not require a visa to enter Peru for tourism stays of up to 183 days. Always carry a printed or digital copy of all your reservations and entrance tickets during the tour.
Physical Fitness Requirements
This 6 day tour is rated easy to moderate. Most activities involve walking on cobblestone streets, uneven archaeological terrain, and some inclines. No prior trekking experience is required. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended, particularly for Machu Picchu, where the site involves stairs and uphill paths. The tour is suitable for families with teenagers, adults of all ages, and senior travelers in good health. If you have any physical conditions or mobility concerns, contact us before booking and we will adapt the itinerary accordingly.
Travel Insurance Recommendation
While travel insurance is not mandatory, we strongly recommend purchasing a comprehensive policy before your trip. Look for coverage that includes emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellation, lost luggage, and coverage for activities at high altitude. Medical facilities in Cusco are available but limited compared to major cities, and emergency evacuation from remote areas can be costly without coverage. Several international providers offer policies specifically designed for adventure and cultural travel in South America.
Frecuendly asked questions
We recommend a minimum of 6 days to experience Cusco and Machu Picchu comfortably. This allows 1–2 days to acclimatize in Cusco, a full day in the Sacred Valley, and a dedicated day at Machu Picchu without feeling rushed.
Shorter itineraries of 4 days are possible but leave little room for acclimatization or unexpected delays. If your schedule allows, 7–8 days lets you add experiences like Rainbow Mountain, Humantay Lake, or an extra day to explore Cusco’s markets and neighborhoods at your own pace.
Yes — one full day at Machu Picchu is enough to experience the citadel thoroughly, especially with a private guide who helps you maximize your time. A standard visit covers all major highlights in approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, leaving free time afterward to explore independently, visit the Sun Gate, or simply take in the views.
Arriving on the first bus at 6:00 AM gives you the best light, fewer crowds, and the most time on site before your afternoon train back to Cusco.
Cusco was the political and religious capital of the Inca Empire and today is a living city at 3,400m, blending Inca stone foundations with Spanish colonial architecture. Machu Picchu is an ancient Inca citadel built around 1450 AD, perched in the cloud forest at 2,430m, and abandoned before the Spanish conquest — which is why it was never destroyed.
Visiting both is essential: Cusco provides the historical and cultural context, while Machu Picchu delivers the iconic visual experience that defines Peru.
As of 2024, a licensed guide is mandatory to enter Machu Picchu — independent visits without a guide are no longer permitted by Peruvian regulations. This rule was introduced to protect the site and improve the visitor experience.
This tour includes a private professional guide who leads a comprehensive 2.5-hour tour covering the citadel’s history, architecture, and mysteries. A private guide — as opposed to a group guide — means the tour moves at your pace and you can ask questions freely throughout.
The most effective way to avoid altitude sickness in Cusco is to arrive one day early and rest. On arrival day: avoid alcohol, drink at least 2–3 liters of water, eat light meals, and sleep as much as possible. Coca leaf tea is a traditional and effective remedy widely available in hotels and restaurants.
Some travelers consult their doctor before travel about prescription medication such as acetazolamide (Diamox) as a preventive measure. Altitude sickness typically peaks on the first night and significantly improves by day two.
The most common and comfortable route from Cusco to Machu Picchu is by train from Ollantaytambo (a 1.5-hour drive from Cusco) to Aguas Calientes, followed by a 30-minute CONSETTUR bus ride up to the citadel entrance.
The train journey through the Sacred Valley and cloud forest is itself a highlight of the trip. Alternative options include the 4-day Classic Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek, or the Short Inca Trail (Km 104), all of which end at Machu Picchu on foot — ideal for trekkers who want a more adventurous approach.
A well-structured Cusco and Machu Picchu tour package typically includes: airport transfers, hotel accommodation (3–4 star), a Cusco city tour covering the main archaeological sites, a Sacred Valley full-day tour, train tickets to and from Aguas Calientes, CONSETTUR bus tickets to Machu Picchu, Machu Picchu entrance fees, and a licensed professional guide.
Our 6 day package includes all of the above plus lunches on Days 3 and 4. International and domestic flights, gratuities, and travel insurance are not included and must be arranged separately.
Absolutely — the majority of visitors reach Machu Picchu by train, not by trekking the Inca Trail. The train from Ollantaytambo is the standard route and offers a comfortable, scenic, and time-efficient way to access the citadel. The Classic Inca Trail requires permits that sell out months in advance and a minimum fitness level for multi-day trekking.
If you want a trekking experience without the full 4-day commitment, the Short Inca Trail (Km 104 to Machu Picchu) is a great 2-day alternative that still ends with the iconic Sun Gate entry into the citadel.
For a Cusco and Machu Picchu tour, pack in layers: lightweight clothing for warm afternoons, a fleece or warm jacket for cool Cusco mornings and evenings, and a waterproof rain jacket year-round. Sturdy walking shoes or light hiking boots are essential for Machu Picchu’s uneven terrain.
Key essentials include: high-SPF sunscreen (UV levels are intense at altitude), insect repellent for Machu Picchu, a reusable water bottle, a small daypack, your passport, and any personal medications. If traveling May–September, gloves and a scarf are useful for early mornings in Cusco.
A 6 day Cusco and Machu Picchu tour with a reputable local operator typically ranges from $1,200 to $2,500 USD per person, depending on the level of accommodation, whether the guide is private or shared, and the train category selected. Our tour starts at $1,420 USD per person and includes private transportation, a private guide, 3–4 star hotels, train tickets, all entrance fees, and meals as specified.
Budget options that cut costs on guides, trains, or accommodation are available but significantly impact the quality and personalization of the experience.
