Overview
This itinerary offers an immersive journey through Peru’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty. From exploring the bustling streets of Lima to uncovering the mysteries of the ancient Incan empire, every day is carefully crafted to provide a mix of guided tours and free time for personal discovery. The trip is designed to showcase a variety of landscapes and historical landmarks, ensuring that travelers experience both the urban energy and the timeless traditions of this fascinating country.
Designed with the modern traveler in mind, this adventure combines convenience with exploration. You will enjoy expert-led tours, comfortable transportation, and a balance of structured activities and leisure time, making it easy to connect with the local heritage while also enjoying moments of personal reflection. Whether you are a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique travel experience, this itinerary provides a comprehensive glimpse into the heart of Peru.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
- Day 1: Lima City Tour
- Day 2: Journey to Cusco
- Day 3: Cusco Walking Tour & Surrounding Area Inca Ruins
- Day 4: Sacred Valley & Train Journey to Aguas Calientes
- Day 5: Machu Picchu
- Day 6: Maras & Moray
- Day 7: Departure
Itinerary
Day 1: Lima City Tour
You will enjoy breakfast at your hotel, followed by a free morning in the city. Between 2:00 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. we will begin your city tour in Lima, known as “The City of Kings”. This excursion offers a great combination of the attractions in Lima and its three historical periods: pre-hispanic, colonial and contemporary. Lima was part of the Inca Empire until it was founded by the Spaniard, Francisco Pizarro on January 18, 1535. During our guided tour we will travel along Lima’s millenary history
*This tour can be done at 9 a.m., if preferred. You will then have the afternoon free. Please let us know your preference.
Day 2: Journey to Cusco
Depending on your flight schedule we will transfer you to the airport in Lima for your flight to Cusco. We will be waiting for you at the airport in Cusco, to bring you to your hotel. You will have a free afternoon to explore Cusco.
(Provide us your flight schedule)
Day 3: Cusco Walking Tour & Surrounding Area Inca Ruins
We will pick you up at 8 a.m. from your hotel lobby to explore the famous Qosqo City (the capital city of the Incas). You will begin with San Blas, the oldest neighborhood of Cusco. Following, you will continue on visiting the 12 angle stone of the Cusco Cathedral, the Temple of the Sun or Qoricancha. You will have the chance to visit the famous market, El Mercado San Pedro of Cusco, walk by San Francisco square and Plaza de Armas, before lunch. We will meet our driver after lunch, who will take us to the city limits of Cusco. There, we will explore the famous Inca sites (Sacsayhuaman – Amazing demonstration of Inca architecture, Quenqo – Temple of Mother earth, Puca Pucara – watch tower, used for the military, and Tambomachay – the water temple of the Incas) Finally, the tour will end around 5 or 6 p.m., when you will be brought back to your hotel.
Day 4: Sacred Valley & train Journey to Aguas Calientes
We will pick you up from your hotel at 8 a.m. for an all-day tour. During your drive to the Sacred Valley, you will visit Awanacancha (an alpaca farm and weaving center), Pisaq Ruins, Pisaq Market and Ollantaytambo. At 7 p.m. you will catch the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, the town located right at the foot of Machu Picchu. You will stay in a hotel here.
Important Note: Sometimes train tickets sell out quickly and we must take an alternative train, the Vistadome train at 3:36 p.m. If this is the case, we will have to begin this tour instead, at 7 a.m. from your hotel.
Day 5: Machu Picchu
The usual departure is at 5:20 a.m., following breakfast. You will have the option to leave at a later time. The bus you will ride to Machu Picchu takes 25 minutes and is first come, first serve. If the weather allows, it will be possible to see the sunrise over the ruins. Your tour guide will accompany you for two hours, explaining the Incan culture, history, and the specialty of their architecture. After the tour, you will have time to explore on your own or use your tickets to climb Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu (Huayna Picchu climb requires a $35 ticket and needs to be booked in advance) to have a better idea of what mountain to climb open this link When you are ready to leave the Machu Picchu complex, you will take a bus back down to Aguas Calientes to enjoy lunch and explore the village. Your train will depart Aguas Calientes at 4:22 p.m. and you will arrive to Ollantaytambo around 6 p.m. You will have a free evening to enjoy Ollantaytambo, a small traditional town.
Day 6: Maras & Moray
We will pick you up at 8 a.m. from your hotel and take you to visit the Salineras of Maras, a huge salt mine which was used in the pre-colonial times. You will be able to see more than 3,000 evaporation chambers and salt pools, which they still use to process salt. Once you are done with Maras, you will visit Moray Inca ruins and the Inca Laboratory. This is where the different micro-climates of the region were researched. They also developed many strains of produce there. Later on, you will visit Chincheros and see a textile center. You will be shown alpaca and llama wool, handmade textiles and a demonstration on how they weave them. This town also offers some Inca ruins that were used to farm potatoes. You will end the tour with a visit to a Catholic church, which was built on top of the Palace of the Incas. Following, you will be driven back to Cusco and transferred to your hotel.
Day 7: Departure
We will transfer you back to the airport for your flight to Lima. ( let us know your flight details in advance to schedule to transfer you to the airport )
Meals Included: Breakfast
End of Package
Inclusions
Included
- Professional Guides: All of our guides studied English and tourism at Cusco National University. They all grew up in this region and have a true passion to teach others about their heritage. They are fun yet professional, and will ensure you are safe and happy.
- Transportation: All your transportation is included on this tour. We will pick you up from your hotel on the first morning and ensure you are escorted until you are dropped off at your hotel the final evening.
- Hotels: This tour includes each of the hotels listed in Lima, Cusco and Aguas Calientes. Extra nights can easily be added before and after your tour, if needed. Let our team know if you are interested in an extension and we will give you a quote. Rooms are based on double occupancy. There is a surcharge for a single room. Upgraded hotels are always possible. In comparison, we can also book your tour without any hotels, if you prefer to book them on your own.
Not Included
- Huayna Picchu: Huayna Picchu is the mountain that stands next to Machu Picchu. It is a 45 minute hike to the top. Going back down is quite steep, if you are scared of heights. This is done without your tour guide, after your tour of Machu Picchu. The cost is $75 per person. Arrangements need to be made at least one month in advance, due to popularity. Please understand that weather is out of our control.
- Flights: Flying to Cusco can be tricky. Delays occur often and it is not uncommon for flights to be cancelled. Please be sure to arrive in the city at least two days before your trek start date. LAN Peru is the most reliable of the airlines. Avianca and Peruvian Airlines are acceptable companies, as well. You will not be return from your trek until around 8 p.m. on the last day, so be sure your flight is not until the next day, when leaving Cusco.
- Gratuities: Tipping is always appreciated and should be based completely on your satisfaction. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels.
- Travel Insurance: This is not required, but always recommended. For those of you who live at sea-level, landing in Cusco will take an adjustment period. Most people need one or two days to adjust. In case you have a hard time adjusting to the altitude, it is suggested to have protection for missed tours.
Before You Go
Data about Peru
Peru is a country of great cultural and geographic diversity, located on the western coast of South America. The official language is Spanish, spoken by the majority of the population.
Peru’s official currency is the sol (PEN), which is accepted throughout the country. Additionally, there are many currency exchange houses in the main cities and tourist areas, where travelers can exchange currencies such as the U.S. dollar, the euro, the Japanese yen, among others.
Peru is world-renowned for its rich cultural heritage, spanning from ancient Andean civilizations like the Incas to the Spanish influence that left its mark on the country’s architecture, cuisine, and traditions. Its economy is one of the most dynamic in Latin America, and Peruvian fashion, influenced by its textile traditions, has gained international recognition, especially for its alpaca and innovative designs using natural and sustainable materials.
The climate in Peru varies greatly by region: the coast has a desert climate, the Andean areas are cold, while the Amazon rainforest enjoys a warm and humid climate year-round. Each region has its own charm and is an invitation to explore not only the landscapes but also the cuisine, history, and traditions that make this country a unique destination.
Arriving in Cusco
The Cusco airport is exclusively equipped for domestic flights. Therefore, all international travelers must land in Lima and go through Customs. Although your flight to Cusco may be operated by the same airline and on the same day, you will need to collect your luggage in Lima and recheck it for the flight to Cusco.
Flying is the quickest and most comfortable option to reach Cusco, with several airlines operating this route. While LAN is usually the most expensive, it offers many alternatives and schedules to fit your planning.
Weather in Cusco
The weather in Cusco is primarily temperate and dry, with a rainy season from November to March. During the dry season, from April to October, daytime temperatures are more pleasant, but nights can be cold due to the altitude. Daytime temperatures typically range between 15°C and 20°C, while nighttime temperatures can drop to 0°C or below.
Altitude
When booking a trip to Cusco, it is natural to have concerns about altitude sickness. Cusco’s altitude means that the air contains less oxygen, which forces your body to work harder to obtain the necessary oxygen.
It is recommended that you spend at least two days in Cusco before starting any treks in the Andes to allow your body to acclimate. Cusco is a fascinating city, full of activities, so you won’t be bored during your acclimatization period.
Altitude sickness can initially present with symptoms similar to those of a cold or hangover. Symptoms include headaches, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, dizziness, sleep problems, and difficulty breathing during exercise. If symptoms worsen, it is important to contact our office so that we can assist you and arrange for a medical consultation.
Generally, the symptoms are mild, so it is recommended to take things slowly to allow your body to adjust. Stay well hydrated by drinking water or coca tea, which has been used for centuries to prevent the effects of altitude sickness. Coca leaves contain alkaloids that help oxygen circulate in the blood. Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol and coffee, as they dehydrate the body. It is also important to avoid smoking and taking sleeping pills, as these hinder oxygen absorption.
Remember that the trek to Machu Picchu is not a race. Even the fittest individuals can experience altitude sickness if they rush too much. Go slowly and allow your body to adjust to the altitude.
Your doctor may recommend medications such as acetazolamide to prevent altitude sickness, which you should begin taking two days before reaching high altitude.
Group Tours
Group tours may include people with varying hiking abilities and ages. When joining one of these tours, be prepared for the group’s pace to vary, as some participants may move faster or slower than you. Everyone can walk at their own pace, and the guide will work to ensure that everyone enjoys the experience. The groups may request some modifications to the itinerary, and the guide will make the best decisions to ensure everyone’s comfort.
Strikes and Protests
Unfortunately, strikes are common in Peru and can disrupt tour itineraries. Protests may block roads or halt trains. In the event that these issues arise, we will ensure that your itinerary continues as planned, even if this means departing earlier than expected. If it becomes necessary to cancel any tour, our operations team will contact you to coordinate the best possible solutions. The safety of our clients is always our priority.
Lost Items
You are responsible for your belongings throughout the journey. We recommend that you pay attention to where you leave your items and make sure to collect everything from our vans, camps, or restaurants. Do not leave your belongings unattended, as it is possible that other travelers may pick them up without knowing who they belong to.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is an affordable and highly recommended option. Although trips are planned months in advance, there is always the possibility of unforeseen events.
Adventure travel carries a higher risk, so having adequate insurance will protect your investment. If you wish, we can help you contact an insurance agent who can advise you on the proper coverage.
First Aid
Every guide from Travels to Machu Picchu has been trained in first aid by medical professionals. We conduct annual training sessions to stay updated and prepared for any emergency. During the tour, each guide carries a first aid kit with basic medications, such as those for traveler’s diarrhea, as well as oxygen.
If you ever feel that you cannot continue the trek, our guides will know the safest and quickest way to get you to a place where you can receive medical attention. We will never leave you alone; there will always be a team member who will accompany you until you are in the hands of a doctor. If necessary, we will ensure that you can visit Machu Picchu at a later time and rejoin your group.
Environmental Impact
At Travels to Machu Picchu, we are committed to respecting the environment. We use biodegradable soap and take care of transporting all our trash back to Cusco. Our porters are trained to take care of the trails and collect any waste they may find from other groups. Additionally, we use eco-friendly portable toilets, which allow us to pack up waste and leave no trace in the natural surroundings. We believe in the importance of practicing responsible and sustainable tourism.
Packing List
Recommendations
- Umbrella
- Sunscreen
- T-Shirt
- Entrance Fees
Price
Join us on this unforgettable 7-day adventure along Cusco for USD 1320 per person. This price includes everything you need for a seamless and memorable experience: transportation, professional guides, permits, food, and more.
Please note that this tourist package requires a minimum of two participants. Gather your friends or family and embark on this incredible journey together!
Enquire Now
Thank you for considering Travels to Machu Picchu for your next adventure in Peru. To provide you with a tailored experience, we invite you to fill out our short form. One of our travel advisors will provide you with all the information you need to enjoy an unforgettable journey.
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