Overview
Embark on a 3-day adventure in the heart of Peru with this unforgettable tour, taking you to some of the most iconic destinations in the region. Your journey will begin with an exploration of the ancient Inca ruins of Sacsayhuaman, Pisaq, and Ollantaytambo, all while learning about the rich history of the Incas and their architectural marvels. The Sacred Valley, with its agricultural terraces and vibrant local markets, will give you an authentic glimpse into Peru’s past and present.
On the second day, you’ll visit the mesmerizing salt mines of Maras, the agricultural terraces of Moray, and the Incan village of Chincheros, before heading to Ollantaytambo. The final day will take you to the legendary Machu Picchu, where you’ll witness the breathtaking sunrise and enjoy a guided tour of the Lost City of the Incas. This tour promises not only breathtaking scenery but also an immersion in Peruvian culture and history.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
- Day 1: Sacsayhuaman – Pisaq – Ollantaytambo
- Day 2: Maras – Moray – Chincheros – Train to Aguas Calientes
- Day 3: Machu Picchu
Itinerary
Day 1: Sacsayhuamán – Pisaq – Ollantaytambo
Your Travels to Machu Picchu tour guide will meet you in your hotel lobby at 8:00 AM and accompany you to Sacsayhuamán, the most impressive Inca fortress still standing today, renowned for its colossal stones—one of which is the largest monolith in any Inca site. From there, you’ll continue through the Sacred Valley to Awanacancha, a traditional weaving cooperative and alpaca farm, where you’ll learn to distinguish llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and guanacos and discover native varieties of potatoes and corn. Next, explore the agricultural terraces of Pisaq, marveling at the ingenuity of Incan farming and the site’s ceremonial and astronomical alignments. Afterward, descend into the vibrant Pisaq market to browse handcrafted textiles and artisanal souvenirs while sampling local flavors during lunch. In the afternoon, drive to Ollantaytambo, an Inca stronghold that once guarded the route to Machu Picchu. Check into your hotel and enjoy free time to relax, wander the cobblestone streets with their original water channels, and dine at a charming local restaurant.
Day 2: Maras – Moray – Chincheros – Train to Aguas Calientes
Your day begins at 8:00 AM with a drive to the Maras Salt Mines, where over 3,000 terraced pools at 12,000 feet above sea level harvest salt through centuries-old evaporation techniques still managed by local families. From there, journey to the concentric circular terraces of Moray, an agricultural laboratory where the Incas tested microclimates to cultivate a variety of crops. Next, visit Chincheros to admire its verdant Inca terraces—once a primary potato-growing region—and the colonial church built atop an Inca palace. Witness a live textile demonstration that showcases the intricate processes of spinning and dyeing wool using traditional methods. In the late afternoon, return to Ollantaytambo for dinner at a local eatery and overnight in preparation for your Machu Picchu adventure.
Day 3: Machu Picchu
Rise before dawn to catch the first shuttle bus at 5:30 AM, a 25-minute ride up the mountain to the entrance of Machu Picchu. On arrival, your guide will lead you to the prime vantage point to witness the sunrise illuminating the Lost City of the Incas. Enjoy a comprehensive two-hour guided exploration of the citadel’s temples, plazas, and water channels, then take time to wander the ruins at your own pace. If you’ve reserved an extra ticket for the Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain hike, your guide will direct you to the trailhead—advance booking at least two months prior is essential. After descending, board the bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch, then take the afternoon train to Ollantaytambo. Finally, private transportation will return you to your hotel in Cusco.
Inclusions
Included
- North valley Moray and Salt Mines(Transportations, tour guide, all entrance ticket)
- 1 night Hotel in Cusco, 1 night Hotel in Machu Picchu town.
- Sacred Valley (Professional Guides, Transportations, all entrance ticket, buffet lunch)
- Machu Picchu (Transportation, Train ticket, Bus up/down, entrance to Machu Picchu, tour guide in Machupicchu)
Not Included
- Flights
- Gratuities
- Meals
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: A compact, sturdy umbrella to shield you from unexpected showers in the highlands.
- Sunscreen: Broad-spectrum SPF 50+ to protect against intense UV rays at altitude.
- T-Shirt: Moisture-wicking, breathable shirts for comfort during long days of exploration.
- Rain Jacket: Lightweight, waterproof shell to keep you dry and wind-protected.
- Hiking Boots: Broken-in, waterproof boots with good ankle support for uneven terrain.
- Layered Clothing: Quick-dry base layers and insulating mid-layers to adapt to temperature changes.
- Sun Hat: Wide-brimmed, breathable hat to guard against sun exposure.
- Sunglasses: UV-protected, polarized lenses to reduce glare and protect your eyes.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Insulated, BPA-free bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Daypack: A comfortable 20–30 L backpack with padded straps for carrying essentials.
- Insect Repellent: DEET-based or natural repellent to ward off mosquitoes in humid areas.
- Portable Charger: High-capacity power bank to keep your devices charged on the trail.
- Personal Medications: Any prescription drugs, plus basic pain relievers and anti-inflammatories.
- Snacks: Energy bars or trail mix for quick fuel between meals and excursions.
Price
Join us on this unforgettable 3-day adventure along Cusco for USD 590 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 tour in Cusco 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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