Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 4-day adventure through the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu with Travels to Machu Picchu. Explore the ancient ruins of Cusco, uncover the cultural heritage of the Incas, and experience the breathtaking beauty of the Sacred Valley. Our professional guides will take you through historic sites, picturesque landscapes, and help you immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Peru. From the vibrant market of Pisaq to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, this tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
This all-inclusive tour provides you with everything you need for a seamless experience: transportation, expert guides, entrance tickets, and more. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient Inca sites or simply soaking in the stunning views, this adventure has something for everyone. Join us on this journey and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
- Day 1: Cusco City – Inca Ruins
- Day 2: Alpaca Farm – Pisaq – Ollantaytambo
- Day 3: Maras – Moray – Chinchero – Train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu)
- Day 4: Machu Picchu (The Sacred City of the Incas)
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco City – Ancient Inca Highlights
At 1:00 p.m., we’ll greet you in your hotel lobby and head straight to the heart of Cusco, its Plaza de Armas. Here, you’ll explore the grand cathedral before strolling along an original Inca street to the Q’oricancha, the legendary Temple of the Sun. Compare the precision of Inca masonry with the later Spanish additions and admire the ornate bronze altar that crowns this sacred site.
Next, you’ll board a cozy coach on Avenida El Sol for a 25-minute ride to Sacsayhuamán. Marvel at the massive stone walls and learn about their ceremonial significance. A short drive brings you to Q’enqo, where you’ll inspect ritual altars carved into the bedrock. From there, we visit the red-stone fortress of Puca Pucara and finish at Tambomachay, the so-called “Baths of the Inca,” known for its intricate water channels. Finally, we return to Cusco for drop-off at your hotel.
Day 2: Alpaca Ranch – Pisaq Ruins – Ollantaytambo
At 8:00 a.m., you’ll depart from your hotel toward the lush Sacred Valley. First stop is Awanacancha, an alpaca and weaving center. Observe how locals shear, dye, and spin alpaca, llama, vicuña, and guanaco fibers into vibrant textiles. You’ll also discover native varieties of corn and potatoes unique to this region.
Then we ascend to the dramatic terraces of the Pisaq Inca Ruins. Your guide will explain how these agricultural steps optimized micro-climates for crops like quinoa and maize, and point out the astronomical markers carved into the stones. After a leisurely lunch at the traditional market—where you can sample local specialties—you’ll journey to Ollantaytambo. Explore this living Inca town, with its mountain-mossed walls and water channels still serving the community, before settling into your hotel and enjoying dinner at a nearby restaurant.
Day 3: Maras Salt Mines – Moray Experiments – Chinchero – Train to Aguas Calientes
We’ll collect you at 8:00 a.m. and drive to the famous Maras Salt Mines, where over 3,000 terraced salt pans glisten on the mountainside. Learn how local families have harvested salt here for centuries, following traditional Inca evaporation techniques.
Next is the circular amphitheater of Moray, an agricultural research station where the Incas tested crop varieties at different altitudes. Walk down through concentric stone terraces and observe the temperature variations that made this site an ancient “laboratory.”
We then continue to Chinchero, a village renowned for its Inca foundations and colonial church. See how ancient and Spanish architectures intertwine, and visit a community weaving center to watch artisans create hand-loomed textiles. After exploring, enjoy dinner in Ollantaytambo, then board the scenic 2-hour train to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll rest up for the next day’s adventure.
Day 4: Machu Picchu – The Lost City of the Incas
Rise early to catch the 5:30 a.m. shuttle bus up to Machu Picchu. As dawn breaks, gather at the prime overlook for breathtaking views of the mist-shrouded citadel. Your guide will lead you on a two-hour private tour, revealing the ingenious water channels, sun temples, and royal residences that define this icon of Inca ingenuity.
After the guided portion, you’ll have free time to wander ruins on your own—or, if pre-booked, ascend Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for panoramic vistas (advance booking required at least 60 days prior). Later, you’ll descend to Aguas Calientes for lunch before boarding the afternoon train back to Ollantaytambo. A final transfer will return you to Cusco, where we’ll drop you off at your hotel to conclude your journey.
Inclusions
Included
- City Tour (Transportation, Tour Guide, Entrance Ticket)
- Sacred Valley (Transportation, Tour Guide, Entrance Ticket, Buffet Lunch)
- Maras Moray (Transportation, Tour Guide, Entrance Ticket, Buffet Lunch)
- Machu Picchu Tour (Train Tickets, Hotel, Bus up/down, Entrance to Machu Picchu, Tour Guide, Transportations Ollanta – Cusco)
- 2 Night Hotel in Cusco
Not Included
- Flights
- Gratuities
- Meals
- Travel Insurance
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
- Acclimatize Gradually: Spend at least 24 hours in Cusco before your first excursion to help your body adjust to the high elevation.
- Stay Hydrated: Carry a refillable water bottle and sip regularly to combat altitude-related headaches and fatigue.
- Dress in Layers: Mornings and evenings can be chilly while afternoons get warm; layering ensures comfort throughout the day.
- Sun Protection: Bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen to shield against intense Andean sun.
- Wear Sturdy Footwear: Opt for broken-in hiking boots or trail shoes with good traction for uneven Inca pathways.
- Support Local Artisans: Purchase textiles and crafts in Chinchero and Pisaq markets to directly benefit the communities you visit.
- Respect Cultural Sites: Follow guide instructions, avoid touching delicate stonework, and stay on designated paths to preserve ancient ruins.
- Pack Snacks: Energy bars or dried fruit can be lifesavers between meals in remote areas.
- Bring a Daypack: A small backpack will hold essentials like water, sunscreen, camera, and an extra layer.
- Carry Insect Repellent: Useful in Aguas Calientes and forested areas around Machu Picchu.
- Book Trains Early: Secure your train and shuttle bus reservations as soon as possible to guarantee your preferred times.
- Use Travel Insurance: Ensure you have coverage for medical emergencies and trip interruptions at high altitudes.
- Opt for Reusable Items: Bring reusable utensils and a metal straw to reduce plastic waste in the Sacred Valley.
Price
Join us on this unforgettable 4-day adventure along Cusco for USD 650 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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