cusco machu picchu tour

Top Tours in Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu picchu tours.

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1. Full Day Tour to Machu Picchu from Cusco

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Cusco to Machu Picchu Tours & Trips

Find adventures that start in Cusco and then finish in Machu Picchu. Trips from Cusco to Machu Picchu are most popular in July, with the most tours doing this route then.

12 Cusco to Machu Picchu tour packages with 11 reviews

• Hiking & Trekking
• Christmas & New Year

Ancascocha Trek & Machu Picchu

Sacred Valley & Short Inca Trail Hike 3 Days

Excellent guide, great trail and organization, very clean hotels and transportation in a luxury car with very polite driver. Compliments to Javier the guide and David the owner! Very good value for money and I would definitely book another tour with this organization again.

• Mountain Hikes

Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 Days and 1 Night

I have completed a fantastic trek with Action Peru Treks and I wish I was able to do a longer hike with them. They were very helpful with all the questions I had before I have decided to make my reservation. They are a small company but their service is fantastic from start to finish. Thank you for a wonderful trek :)

Private Inca Trail 4 Days/ families or couples

Our trip was incredible! Everyone involved did all they could to assist us and keep us going! Our guide, Ron, was incredible. Our porters and chef were all incredible. I highly recommend

Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu 4 days

Classic Inca Trail – 4 Days

• In-depth Cultural

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Inca Trail (Easy)

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Full Day Tour to Machu Picchu from Cusco

• Train Tickets from Ollantaytambo-Aguas calientes-Ollantaytambo
• Professional Guide(speaks Spanish and English)
• Bus round trip to machupicchu
• Transfers to the train station both ways from cusco
• Admission tickets for the archeological site of Machupicchu.
• pick ups and drop off at the hotel
• Entry/Admission - Santuario Historico de Machu Picchu
• For your convenience, we offer a pick-up service directly from your hotel. Make sure to provide us with all the necessary details to ensure a seamless pick-up. Get ready for an incredible experience at Machu Picchu!To reach the site pick up will start very early at the hotel ,then you will travel for almost 2 hours to the train station(ollantaytambo)from this point you will board the train to aguas calientes (Machupicchu pueblo)then you will catch the bus up to Machupicchu site where you will get a guided tour for almost 2 hours and a half ,At the end of our visit you will go back to the same point where you will catch the train back to Ollantayambo and our cars from our company will take you back to the hotel in Cusco .
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
• Travel time is included in the total tour duration.
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 8 travelers
• All sales are final and incur 100% cancellation penalties.
• Santuario Historico de Machu Picchu

Similar experiences

• You'll get picked up See departure details
• 1 Santuario Historico de Machu Picchu Stop: 3 hours - Admission included Discover what awaits you when booking your experience in Machu Picchu. Immerse yourself in the majesty of this archaeological marvel surrounded by lush vegetation. Explore the ancient Inca ruins, learn about its fascinating history, and marvel at its unique architecture. A one-of-a-kind experience that will transport you through time and immerse you in Inca culture. You'll have time to explore at your own pace after the guided tour. Additionally, we offer additional hiking options, allowing you to discover panoramic views and special corners of Machu Picchu. Book now to live this adventure! Read more
• You'll return to the starting point

• Meander02820128904 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles best guide!! we had a wonderful time ,all was very smooth and easy the walk through the city with Michael as our guide he was exellent in all aspects of the tour had a lot of information about this area and we loved it ,thanks Michael and all the company members we thank you guys Read more Written January 29, 2024
• Resort36264294289 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles exellent customer service. the tour to Machupicchu was amazing,Alex was very patient with all the group and made an exellent job ,machupicchu itself is a must even better with thi company that provided all the tickets for us and made us enjoy every minute during the trip ,highly recommended Read more Written January 26, 2024
• josefinav369 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles The best choice to explore Machupicchu with saul We had an amazing time with our guide saul ,this journey was truly the destination our guide was very knowledgeable about incas construction and we loved every minute of it highly recommended Read more Written January 7, 2024
• Getaway27213047930 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Better than ever I had a great experience with William and the way he planned out everything for me and my family. He was always one step ahead which made our travels super easy and stress free. Read more Written January 3, 2024
• jhonb2024 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles such a wonderful time!! It was an amazing experience!! Breathtaking views. It was my dream destination and the trek made so much worthwhile. Ourtour guides Michael and William were the best. They helped with everything we could ever think of. Willian was amazing at explaining the history of Machupicchu behind every place we had been. , a round of applause for the organizer who made this experience incredible for us . Read more Written January 2, 2024
• 528ramc 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Oustanding! We had the most amazing time in Machupicchu ,everything was perfect we had to thank Ana for this oustanding trip the train ride was ok and the staff were very helpeful,our guide Juanjo made us feel very good and made sure that we all were fine. Highly recommed this agency Read more Written December 30, 2023
• yuriko567 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Machupicchu for the second time!! the second time in my visit to Peru ,i did the Machupicchu tour for the second time ,this time with my family ,all went allright as planned ,mauro was our guide and he knew all the history of the incas and had a lot of fun with him the 360° option was more than we expected ,maria on the train on board went beyond our expectation very attentive and charming i recommend the whole service ,they took well care from us from begining to end . Read more Written December 30, 2023
• jimkP6609ST 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Memories of a lifetime!! The tour was amazing! The tour guide made sure we did all the necessary points as well as everything we wanted to do! He was so welcoming ,friendly and easy to ask whatever questions we had about inca´s culture, history, and even language. The tour was very comprehensive and we all learned so much while having so much fun. We really had the greatest time and made memories of a lifetime and that’s all thanks to Rene and all the team members!! Read more Written December 29, 2023
• B356OAdanielr 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Once in a lifetime experience -Machupicchu tour What a wonderful tour!! We were all amazed by this tour company they did everything for us and they were very puntual with the program, Muchupicchu is a must-see they all were exellent guides Thank you guys for making this experience happen. Read more Written December 28, 2023
• clonv 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles amazing!! it was a very profesional tour and everything was done as said ,my fiance and i had a wonderful time at Machupicchu,everything went smoothly with our guide Michael ,if you have the chance to ask this company for Michael i would recommend it . this tour was very well organised from beginning to end ,i have no more words of gratitude towards this agency they are the best thank you guys for making this tour unforgettable for us .you deserve 10 points Read more Written December 27, 2023

More to explore in Cusco

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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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Full Day Tour to Machu Picchu from Cusco provided by Peru Landers

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One-Day Experiences

• Machu Picchu Tour From Aguas Calientes
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Machu Picchu Hikes

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• 3 Day Machu Picchu Tour

Leisurely 3-Day Machu Picchu Tour & Sacred Valley from Cusco Airport

Explore all the highlights of Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu on this amazing 3-day Private Guided Tour starting from Cusco Airport

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu on our leisurely 3-day guided tour, starting from Cusco Airport. Our exclusive itinerary, carefully crafted by Cusco Local Friend, ensures that you make the most of your time exploring all the highlights of the region. From the picturesque sites of Chinchero, Moray, the salt mines of Maras, Pisac, and Ollantaytambo to the iconic Machu Picchu, our knowledgeable guides will accompany you every step of the way.

On this Exclusive 3 Day Machu Picchu Private Guided Tour, you’ll visit all the must-see sites of the region! For the first 2 Days, you will be exploring the Sacred Valley, including Pisac Ruins, Chinchero, Moray, the salt mines of Maras, and Ollantaytambo. On the third day, you will explore Machu Picchu on a private guided tour, Our expert local guide will take you through the ancient ruins and sites in the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, sharing their knowledge of the history and meaning behind these incredible sites as well as the local culture; They will also show you the best spots for photos, ensuring you capture the perfect memories

This leisurely 3 – Day Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley adventure is perfect for first-time visitors, couples, and families who enjoy taking their time to explore. Independent travelers will especially appreciate starting their journey in the Sacred Valley, as its lower elevation will help with acclimatization. With limited time in Peru, this tour allows you to make the most of your trip! For an extended and all-inclusive tour, check out our 5-day Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley highlights package.

Why you will love this tour

• In just three days, you will see all the must-see destinations in the famous Sacred Valley and the new7wonder of the world – Machu Picchu.
• This exclusive 3-Day itinerary introduces you to the history of the Incas and the local culture as you explore the beautiful Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
• Staying in the Sacred Valley which is at about 9,500 ft. above sea level will help you acclimatize quicker and gradually to the altitude so you can get up and explore this beautiful region with a lower risk of getting altitude sickness. 
• Enjoy a personalized guided tour of one of the New7Wonders of the World and capture photos from prime vantage points and meet the local resident – the Llamas
• Explore the Sacred Valley’s must-see sites in 2 leisurely days without being rushed and enjoy the scenic Sacred Valley by train on the way to Machu Picchu 
• We don’t follow the crowds, while we include the must-see highlights in this tour; we make every effort to avoid most of the crowds.
• This is an intimate private experience so you enjoy a personal experience, go at your own pace, and will be able to talk to your guide and ask questions, and be involved during the tour.

Trip Details

• Tour Type: Private Tour basis
• Start: Cusco Airport OR Cusco city
• Finish: Cusco city
• Pick-up Time: To be Confirmed based on the day program on the itinerary
• Duration: 03 Days 
• Mode: Private car, Train, Walking 
• Difficulty: EASY TO MODERATE, you don’t need to be super-fit, although there is quite a lot of walking on trails with altitudes above 3,700 meters above sea level  (12100 feet) as well as there will be many stone-made steps up and down.
• Customizable: YES! Go Private and customize this tour, add-ons are all available. We are happy to adjust this tour to fit your interests and travel timeframe.

Day 1. Airport pickup - Transfer to the Sacred Valley - Pisac Tour

Flight to Cusco (It is required to arrive before midday). Upon arrival, we will meet you at Cusco airport and we start the adventure to the Sacred Valley right away. S taying in the Sacred Valley which is at about 9,500 ft. above sea level will help you acclimatize quicker and gradually to the altitude so you can get up and explore this beautiful region with a lower risk of getting altitude sickness. 

We will first drive to the Eastern side of the Sacred Valley while you enjoy the amazing scenic views of the area.

Our first stop is at Pisac Ruins – the most extensive archaeological sites in the Valley (it is even bigger than Machupicchu) You will be amazed by the stunning Incan farming terraces and the fort-like ruins of an Inkan village on the top of the Mountain. Whether or not to visit the Pisac Market is your choice, as it is an optional stop. At your request, we can also stop at a small Llama Farm on the way.

At the end of the tour, we will take you to your hotel in Urubamba or in Ollantaytambo.

Day 2. Best of Sacred Valley Private Tour

We start the Second-Day adventure with the pickup from your Accommodation. The pickup time will be around 8 – 8.30 AM (it will be confirmed on the previous day)

We will first visit Chinchero , A small town famous for its spectacular mountain views, the traditional textile weaving cooperatives, and the well-preserved Inkan ruins. At the end of the tour, we will drive to your Hotel

By midmorning, We will explore the amazing Agriculture Terraces of Moray , believed to be an elaborate agricultural laboratory and the famous  Salt Mines of Maras , where locals obtain Salt from a local subterranean water stream. By midday, we will make a stop at a local restaurant for a deserved lunch (Lunch is NOT included in the price)

Finally, after lunch, visit the Inca town of Ollantaytambo and explore the fascinating and megalithic Ruins, learn about Inca culture and explore the local handcraft market along the way.

At the end of the tour, we will have 2 options:

• Drop you off at the Train Station in Ollantaytambo so we take the early evening train to Aguas Calientes and stay in Aguas Calientes and be closer to Machu Picchu, which is recommended for those planning to visit Machu Picchu early in the morning or those who want to hike Huayna Picchu.
• Or, you can return to your hotel in Ollantaytambo or Urubamba and make a day trip to Machu Picchu the following day, which is recommended for those who prefer not to change hotels every night and want to stay in the Sacred Valley.

Day 3. Machu Picchu Private Guided Tour - Return to Cusco

1 – Those staying in Aguas Calientes Town

• Your guide will meet you at your hotel, then he will show you the way to the bus station and board the 30 min, bus ride to Machupicchu Park. 

2 – Those staying in Ollantaytambo, Urubamba or Cusco:

• Private transfer in the morning to Ollantaytambo Train station. Board the tourist train to Aguas Calientes (A.K.A. Machu Picchu Town) – Meet your guide at the train station and hop on the shuttle bus up to Machu Picchu Park. 

Get ready for your private guided tour of Machu Picchu! Your private guide will accompany you to the Guard House at Machu Picchu where you’ll get the best view of this World Wonder, as well as an extended tour and explanation of the history, surrounding areas, and the sacred legend of Machu Picchu. 

Following your private tour (optionally at extra cost) you can join us on the Hike to Huayna Picchu Mountain. Then, return to Aguas Calientes and have time for lunch.  Finally, you’ll begin your journey back to Ollantaytambo or Cusco.

You can also customize this itinerary to continue your adventure in Peru.

Note on the Itinerary

While we strive to adhere to the schedule outlined above, please note that this itinerary is subject to change due to factors beyond our control. These factors may include incidents at the trip location, strikes, political disputes, severe weather, flight cancellations, and other unforeseeable circumstances. Cusco Local Friend cannot be held responsible for such changes.

In such situations, we may need to adjust our original schedule and provide alternative options to ensure you have a great experience. Please be aware that any additional expenses incurred as a result of these changes will be the sole responsibility of the client and not be covered by Cusco Local Friend.

• Arrival Airport transfer
• Transportation for all tours + pickups and drop-offs.
• English-speaking licensed local guide.
• Entrance Tickets to all the visited sites
• Sacred Valley Tour is a private tour and includes: Transportation, Entrance Tickets and Tour Guide
• Machu Picchu entrance ticket.
• Professional local Guide.
• Round trip shuttle bus tickets to/from Machu Picchu.
• Round-Trip Expedition Train Tickets (Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo)
• 2-Night Accommodation in a 3-Star Hotel in the Sacred Valley or Aguas Calientes (If you book the Hotel on your own, we will deduct this from the tour price)

Not Included

• Upgrade to one-way VISTADOME glass-roof train $40 USD per person
• Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu Mountain/Huayna Picchu (optional and based on availability) – $70 USD per person
• Gratuities 
• Travel Insurance

Book this Experience

What to expect breathtaking views, mild to hot temperatures although kind of windy at some places in the afternoons; mostly sunny days during the months of may, june, july, and august, although some mornings would be a little foggy in machu picchu (some days very foggy in the rainy season); mosquito area (machu picchu); lots of history about the inca empire; friendly english speaking tour guide; your journey your way why travel with us, local knowledge & expertise.

It's great to travel with professional experts from the same destination you are going, that's how you get first-hand information. With deep in-country knowledge, We know the ins and outs of all the logistics, we will ensure you can make the most of your time away.

Personalized Experiences

Your time is precious - we know that. Your experience is our top priority. No big bus groups, No flags to follow! Traveling with a private guide and driver you’ll do what you want, when you want with the freedom to change your plans on the fly.

Friendly Local Guides

Great sights don’t make an amazing tour. Great guides do! Our guides don’t read from a script, we give them the freedom to make each tour their own, and your experience unique. We love what we do and it shows. From the moment you arrive, you'll feel the buzz and excitement that Cusco Local Friend to offer.

Exclusive Itineraries

It’s not all about the destination, it’s also about the journey. We offer only the best itineraries and tours. As local experts, we know first-hand what tours or experiences are the ones that most travelers enjoy and request. Escape the crowds! Never waste any minute, never miss any highlight!

Trip Reviews

Cusco Local Friend has been awarded the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence due to the most consistent 5-star reviews in Cusco, the Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu for exceptional levels of service and care.

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Tour Machu Picchu 4 days - Cusco and Sacred Valley

Embark on our 4-Day Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Cusco Tour for a unique experience where you'll discover the beauty of Inca Culture. Get up close with the city of Cusco, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, and the Citadel of Machu Picchu. This journey promises amazing and unforgettable moments, immersing you in the rich history and natural beauty of the region.

CUSCO CITY AND AROUND

We warmly welcome you and pick you up at the Cusco airport to take you to your hotel. After settling in, we explore the magical city of Cusco and the impressive Inca constructions that surround it. We will start our tour at the Cathedral , then proceed to Qoricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara , and finally, Tambomachay.

Night in Cusco.

SACRED VALLEY – PISAC – OLLANTAYTAMBO – AGUAS CALIENTES.

On this day, you will begin a fascinating tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. At approximately 07:30 a.m., we will pick you up from the hotel in Cusco, taking you through the mountains in a unique experience. The first stop will be at the Archaeological Center of Pisac , an hour from Cusco; the ruins of Pisac reveal a system of terraces, domestic structures, and aqueducts. Later, you will explore the handicraft market of Pisac before enjoying a buffet lunch in Urubamba with local and national cuisine.

The next stop will take you to Ollantaytambo , recognized as the "Best Tourist Town in the World." This archaeological site features superimposed terraces and finely carved stone blocks. After the tour in Ollantaytambo, you will head to the train station to board the train to Aguas Calientes. This 1-hour and 50-minute journey will immerse you in lush nature, accompanied by the waters of the Vilcanota River. In Aguas Calientes, we will assist you with the transfer to the hotel and leave the rest of the day free for you to explore the town, shop, or dine in local restaurants.

AGUAS CALIENTES - MACHU PICCHU - CUSCO

Early in the morning, our guide will be waiting for you at the hotel to take you to the bus station, where you will board the bus to the Archaeological Sanctuary of Machu Picchu ; this journey takes 25 minutes. Upon arrival, the tour begins, exploring the Inca citadel, with a duration of 2 to 3 hours. Our guide will share the history and architecture of this wonder of the world.

After the tour, you will return by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you will have time for lunch and explore the charming town. Later, you will board the train back to Ollantaytambo, and it is here where we will pick you up from the station to transfer you to your hotel in Cusco, concluding our tour to Machu Picchu.

CUSCO - AIRPORT

We start the day with breakfast at your hotel. Then, we will transfer you to the airport at the designated time to board your departure flight, marking the end of our exciting 4-Day Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Cusco Tour.

End of services with CuscoPeru.com

• Pre-tour information in Cusco and permanent assistance.
• 02 nights hotel in Cusco.
• 01 night hotel in Aguas Calientes.
• Roundtrip airport transfers.
• Entrance ticket to the Cathedral of Cusco.
• Entrance ticket to the Temple of the Sun Qoricancha Cusco .
• Entrance ticket, Tourist Ticket of Cusco (BTC) that allows you to visit archaeological sites, historical places in Cusco, and the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
• Transfers from Cusco to Ollantaytambo train station, round trip.
• Bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu round trip.
• 1 Machu Picchu entrance ticket
• Professional English - Spanish-speaking guide.
• Buffet lunch in the Sacred Valley.

NOT INCLUDED:

• Air tickets.
• Unmentioned meals.
• Other unspecified services.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

• Book in advance.
• Bring your passport or ID.
• Carry cash, Peruvian soles, and dollars. However, you will find plenty of ATMs in the city of Cusco.
• Bring some snacks and bottled water.
• Wear suitable shoes for walking, non-slip or non-slip.
• Arrive half an hour before at the train station, before the departure time, and present your ticket and identification.
• Carry in a small backpack, a camera, a sun-protective hat, sunscreen, mosquito repellent.
• Regarding your luggage, you can take up to 5 kilos on the train only.
• In high season, the number of visitors to Machu Picchu increases, so to board the bus to Machu Picchu Sanctuary, you may need to queue in some cases.

Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Cusco Tour Itinerary

Day 1: cusco city and surroundings..

We will wait for you at the airport to welcome you. Later, we will take you to your hotel in Cusco. At approximately 01:00 p.m., we will pick you up from your hotel to start our City Tour. We will delve into the cultural richness of the city, beginning with The Cathedral of Cusco , adorned with delicate carved woodwork, impressive altars, and beautiful paintings created by local artists from the Cusco School.

Next, we will explore Qorikancha or the Temple of the Sun, an amazing place built by the Incas in worship of the sun. Later modified by the Spaniards during the Viceroyalty for the evangelization of the indigenous people, it still preserves walls built with extraordinary precision by the Incas, along with Catholic religious pieces of an artistic nature.

After visiting Qoricancha, we will transfer to our transport to Sacsayhuaman , located 3 km from Cusco. The esplanade of Sacsayhuaman gives us a panoramic view of the city of Cusco. This imposing structure was built with colossal blocks of limestone, some with astonishing weights ranging from 25 to 130 tons. Comprising three superimposed terraces in a serpentine arrangement (zigzag), its breadth and grandeur made it a meeting point for various festivities, such as WARACHIKUY and INTI RAYMI.

We will continue our journey exploring Qenqo, a Quechua word that means "labyrinth," attributed to the underground galleries and small canals carved in a zigzag pattern. Our next stop is Puka Pukara, the "red fortress," strategically located to control access and exits from the imperial city.

As the final point of our tour, we will explore Tambomachay , a resting place located 9 km from the city of Cusco. Also known as the "baths of the Inca" due to its water springs or popularly known as the "waters of eternal youth" due to the constancy of the flow of its waters. We conclude our City Tour near the Plaza de Armas of Cusco, at approximately 6:00 p.m.

• Private airport-hotel transfer.
• Pre-tour assistance.
• One night hotel in Cusco.
• Entrances to Cathedral, Qoricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka - Pukara, and Tambomachay.
• Tourist bus transfers.
• Group guided tour. Professional English - Spanish-speaking guide.

After the tour, we invite you to take a stroll around the Plaza de Armas and its surroundings, where you can admire the creations of Cusco artisans in craft shops. Enjoy the renowned and unique Peruvian cuisine in local restaurants, or simply take a break on one of the benches in the Plaza de Armas. If you enjoy the night, around the square, you will find numerous nightclubs and bars full of tourists and locals eager to have fun.

DAY 2: SACRED VALLEY – PISAC – OLLANTAYTAMBO – AGUAS CALIENTES.

On this day, you will embark on a comprehensive tour of the impressive Sacred Valley of the Incas. After breakfast at your hotel, our team will be ready to pick you up at approximately 07:30 a.m., starting a fascinating journey through the mountains.

The first stop takes us to the Archaeological Center of Pisac , located 1 hour from Cusco. In this complex, the Incas demonstrated advanced knowledge in the construction of structures. The ruins of Pisac exhibit a system of terraces, domestic and ceremonial structures, and aqueducts that supplied water for agriculture. Subsequently, we will explore the handicraft market of Pisac, full of color and offering a variety of unique handicrafts. At noon, we will have lunch in the town of Urubamba, enjoying a buffet lunch with local and national cuisine.

The next stop will take us to the fortress of Ollantaytambo , a military, agricultural, and religious center that administered and controlled the Sacred Valley. This archaeological site has superimposed terraces, highlighting impressive finely carved stone blocks. Ollantaytambo is recognized as the "Best Tourist Town in the World."

After the tour in Ollantaytambo, we will head to the station to board the train to Aguas Calientes. This journey takes 01 hour and 50 minutes, immersing us in a ride through lush nature, accompanied by the waters of the Vilcanota River. Once in Aguas Calientes, we will assist you in transferring to your hotel and provide the rest of the day for you to enjoy exploring the town, shopping at craft stores, or dining at local restaurants.

Night in Aguas Calientes

• Entrances to the archaeological sites of Pisac, Ollantaytambo.
• Tourist transportation.
• Buffet lunch in Urubamba.
• Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes train tickets
• One night hotel in Aguas Calientes.

NOT INCLUDED: 

• It is advisable to wear sneakers or suitable footwear, as there will be steep stairs.
• Take a small backpack along with your camera, hat, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and a water bottle.
• In Pisac, do not forget to take home a souvenir of the craftsmanship.

DAY 3: AGUAS CALIENTES - MACHU PICCHU - CUSCO.

Early in the morning, our guide will be waiting for you at the hotel to accompany you to the bus station, where we will board the vehicle that will take us to the Archaeological Sanctuary of Machu Picchu . The bus journey takes approximately 25 minutes, constituting the conventional route to reach the Inca citadel.

Once at the historic sanctuary, we will start our tour. We will explore the ancient remains, Inca architecture, and engineering. The tour of the Machu Picchu Citadel lasts between 2 and 3 hours, allowing you to delve deeper into the richness of this unique place. It is important to note that the visiting time is currently limited, so we will make the most of every moment.

After the tour, we will return by bus to Aguas Calientes , where you will have time for lunch and to explore the charming town, full of restaurants and craft shops. Later, we will board the train back to Ollantaytambo, where our transport will take you back to your hotel in Cusco, marking the end of our tour to Machu Picchu.

• Train schedules to Machu Picchu may be subject to variations depending on the availability of departures.
• Admission to Machu Picchu often sells out quickly, book your trip in advance.
• Bus ticket Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu, round trip.
• Machu Picchu entrance ticket
• Train ticket Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo
• Transfer from Ollantaytambo station to Cusco.
• Other unspecified services
• Arrive half an hour early at the train station.
• In Machu Picchu, you will climb many stairs, wear suitable shoes.
• We suggest bringing a small backpack along with your camera, wearing a hat, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and a water bottle.
• After the guided tour in Machu Picchu, enjoy the magical moment appreciating the wonder, open your arms, and recharge your energy.

DAY 4:  TRANSFER HOTEL - AIRPORT.

We will start the day with breakfast at your hotel. At the appropriate time, we will accompany you to the airport for your departure flight, thus ending our exciting 4-Day Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Cusco Tour.

HOW MUCH IT COSTS?

• For reservations made 3 months in advance, ask for a special discount.
• For groups larger than 4 people, please contact us for a special price..

WHY TO CHOOSE CUSCOPERU.COM?

Check our offers.

Train THE VOYAGER or EXPEDITION 2* Hotel Hotel 7 Ventanas – Hotel Casa Elena – Hotel Andariego, in Cusco Hotel Wiracocha Inn - Hotel Retama Machupicchu - Hotel Terrazas de Luna, in Aguas calientes Important: According to availability, a hotel of similar category will be assigned.

Train THE VOYAGER or EXPEDITION 3* Hotel Hotel Inkarri - Hotel Tika Wasi – Hotel Sueños del Inca, in Cusco Hotel Tara Machupicchu - Hotel Ferre Machupicchu - Hotel Waman Machupicchu, in Aguas calientes Important: According to availability, a hotel of similar category will be assigned.

Train THE VOYAGER or EXPEDITION 3* Superior Hotel Hotel San Agustin Int. - Hotel Xima – Estancia San Blas, in Cusco Hotel Casa Andina Standard Machupicchu - Hotel Taypikala Machupicchu - Hotel Inti Punku, in Aguas calientes Important: According to availability, a hotel of similar category will be assigned.

Train THE VOYAGER or EXPEDITION 4* Hotel Hotel Costa del Sol Ramada - Hotel Sonesta - Hotel Tierra Viva - Hotel San Agustin Plaza, in Cusco Hotel Tierra Viva Machupicchu - Hotel Jaya Machupicchu - Hotel Hatun Inti Boutique, in Aguas calientes Important: According to availability, a hotel of similar category will be assigned.

The service in this category is by train THE VOYAGER - IncaRail or EXPEDITION Train - PeruRail, if you prefer to add the VISTADOME train service the additional cost is US$ 50.00 per person round trip.

VISTADOME Train 4* Hotel Hotel Costa del Sol Ramada – Hotel Sonesta – Hotel Tierra Viva – Hotel San Agustin Plaza, in Cusco Important: According to availability, a hotel of similar category will be assigned.

VISTADOME Train 5* Hotel Hotel Aranwa - Hotel Casa Andina Premium - Hotel Palacio del Inka, in Cusco Important: According to availability, a hotel of similar category will be assigned.

The service is by Vistadome Train. If you prefer to add the HIRAM BHINGHAM TRAIN service, the additional cost is US$ 730.00 per person.

• TRAINS: Our service includes the EXPEDITION or VOYAGER train and you can upgrade to the VISTADOME TRAIN for an additional 30 USD per person return.
• We can also offer you the VISTADOME OBSERVATORY TRAIN , with an additional 90 USD per person round trip.
• HOTELS: You can choose packages based on the type of Hotel, you can also opt for Hotels that are not listed in our offer, before confirming you must inform us of the hotel you prefer and we will add it to the package.
• PRIVATE: Consult with one of our advisors if you want any of the services in private.

To start your reservation process please send us the following information:

• Name and surname:
• Passport No.:
• Nationality:
• Date of birth:
• It is very important your information about your hotel in the city of Cusco, so we can pick you up there at the beginning of the tour..
• Payment by credit card VISA or MASTERCARD through our system www.cuscoperu.com/payment the system charges an additional 5% (SSL secure system and foreign bank transfer fees).
• Sending the advance via Western Union coordinating with our sales representative and sending the request to [email protected], then you must send us the MTCN code of your deposit.
• Payment via deposit to our company's account at BBVA Banco Continental Cuenta Corriente: Account Code. Interbank: (CCI) 011 201 000100028495 18 - CUSCOPERU.COM Tour Operator SRL - SWIFT CODE: BCONPEPL - you must add U$89.00 which is the charge that our bank makes to our account for international transfer and administrative expenses, you should also consult your bank about the additional amount that you will be charged.
• Payment by credit card VISA - MASTERCARD with the PAYPAL system generating the payment order that we would send you from CuscoPeru.com e-commerce If you accept this option you will have a 7% surcharge.

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Home » 5-Day Machu Picchu Express

5-Day Machu Picchu Express

Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, Humantay Lake, Sacred Valley & Cusco City

This 5-day Machu Picchu tour is the most complete way to explore Cusco’s must visit sites. You’ll learn about local culture, visit important Inca sites, hike to rainbow-colored mountains and gaze at picturesque glaciar lakes. And of course, you’ll also visit the New Wonder of the World, Machu Picchu. All of this with our amazing expert guides that will make sure you have a great time everywhere you go.

• Visit Cusco's must-visit sites without being rushed.
• Discover Machu Picchu with an expert guide that has done 1000+ tours.
• We start our tours early to reach the sites before the crowds arrive.

Rainbow Mountains

Need help? Contact us!

The following 5-day itinerary for Peru is fully customizable. Contact us and we will be happy to help you plan the tour of your dreams.

*Changes can be made to all tours, contact us for more information.

Upon your arrival in Cusco, you will be picked up from the airport by our staff and transferred to your hotel. In the afternoon, you will embark on a cultural journey and explore the main sights of Cusco, such as Qoricancha, the San Blas district and much more.

Embark on a captivating journey to the Sacred Valley’s most important destinations: Moray, the salt mines of Maras, and Ollantaytambo. Enjoy a delicious lunch amidst the Andean landscape, visit a lively local textile center, and also explore a local chicheria on our small group/private tours.

After the tour, you can either continue to Aguas Calientes or return to Cusco to prepare for your upcoming Machu Picchu tour the next day.

Enjoy a 2-hour private tour with our expert guide to the most significant sites of the Machu Picchu ruins. Discover the fascinating history and culture of the Incas as you fall in love with the unique story of Machu Picchu and gain a deeper understanding of this ancient wonder.

After the tour you will be transferred back to Cusco.

Be an early explorer and savor the tranquility atop the Andes! Witness the colorful wonders of Vinicunca rainbow mountain, stunning red landscapes and encounter llamas and alpacas. Our small group and private tours ensure you’re among the first to reach the summit, escaping the crowds for an exclusive experience.

Located at 4200m, this hidden gem is nestled between glacier mountains and offers spectacular views. After hiking for 1.5-2 hours, you’ll get to the turquoise Humantay Lake and the snow-capped Humantay mountain in the back.

• Airport transfers with our staff accompanying you (for small-group and private tours)
• All tours stated in the itinerary with fluent English speaking licensed local guides
• Meals as indicated in the itinerary above (vegetarian and vegan options available)
• Hotels if you choose to include them
• All entrance, train- and shuttle bus tickets for Machu Picchu
• Trekking poles, first-aid kit and oxygen for the hikes
• Welcome kit and virtual support during your trip

Not Included

• Flights (can be included if you want to)
• Entrance tickets (Machu Picchu entrance tickets are included in all packages; private tours include all entrance tickets).

Prices p. person

Based on double/triple occupancy and the hotels mentioned below or similar ones in the same category. Please contact us to receive a free quote based on your hotel preferences.

Small Group Tours (excl. hotels) starting at $899

Private Tours (excl. hotels) starting at $1109

The hotels below can vary based on your preferences.

Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

The Inkaterra El Pueblo Hotel is located at the foot of Machu Picchu, near the train station, and strives to combine regional nature with modern comfort to provide you with a unique upscale experience for your Machu Picchu visit.

• Swimming Pool
• Room Service

El Mapi by Inkaterra

The El Mapi Hotel by Inkaterra is located near the Aguas Calientes train station and the Machu Picchu shuttle bus station, thus making it an ideal option for travelers seeking convenience. This contemporary hotel includes many facilities, friendly service and delicious food. It’s a great place to relax before or after visiting the New Wonder of the World.

Sacred Stone Boutique

This 3-star boutique hotel features a bar and is located just 400 meters from the train station. The hotel offers free Wi-Fi, a restaurant, room service and a 24-hour reception to help you with all your needs.   Views of the neighboring mountains and the river are available from the large rooms. In addition, every room includes a private bathroom with hot showers available all day.

Palacio del Inka Luxury Collection

Next to Koricancha, one of the most important temples of the Inca empire, lies the luxurious Palacio del Inka built on original Inca foundations. Throughout the entire hotel, you’ll get to admire the colonial architecture that can be explored in a guided tour of its facilities.

• Air Conditioning

Located in a building of the 16th century and being only 3 blocks away from Cusco’s main square, the Novotel is an excellent option for a centrally located, modern hotel with local charme. Relax in the heated courtyard after your tour and enjoy a local tea before heading to one of the restaurants closeby.

• Air conditioning

This charming 3-star hotel in Cusco provides free Wi-Fi and cozy, country-style lodging. It is ideally located on a quiet, secluded street, a mere 300 meters from the Plaza de Armas square. Hotel Rumi Punku boasts a delightful traditional ambiance, with a central courtyard graced by a lush garden. The well-appointed rooms are equipped with private bathrooms, cable TV, and present serene views of the inner courtyard.

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Let’s plan your dream trip to Peru

All of our tour itineraries are 100% customizable . Just let us know your preferences below and we’ll get back to you within 24-48 hours.

• First name* Last name*
• Starting Date* Number of travelers* 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
• Hotels (Optional, multiple choices possible) Luxury Superior Best Value
• Trip Length 3-5 Days 6-8 Days 9-11 Days 12-15 Days 16+ Days Not sure yet
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Peru Destinations

Top Best Places and Tourist Attractions to Visit in Peru and Cusco

• Machu Picchu Tours
• Sacred Valley
• Lares Treks
• Huchuy Qosqo
• Rainbow Mountain
• Inca Trails Treks
• Choquequirao
• Inca Quarry

Live an unique vacation in Peru with our personalized itineraries designed exclusively through authentic tours, in harmony with the natural world. Travel to Peru and fuel your imagination on a diet of ancient treasures and wonderful landscapes. Surrounded by majestic Andean peaks, world wonder Machu Picchu and the historic city of Cusco highlight Peru’s dramatic birth from the encounter between Incas and Spaniards. Peru is one of the most diverse travel destinations on the entire planet. Full of wilderness, adventure, history, world-renowned cuisine and a colorful culture, this is a country that offers several exciting options for, literally, any type of traveler.

Custom Tours, Trips & Travel Packages in Peru

The best travel packages and tours to peru.

• Machu Picchu Tour with Rainbow Mountain Trek 5 Days
• Sacred Valley with Short Inca Trail & Rainbow Mountain Tour – 4 Days

Explore our selection of Peru tours and packages and get inspire with our journeys and find your perfect itinerary. Come to Peru to discover its mystical land with ancient citadels, magnificent natural beauty, traces of ancient civilizations, rich history, and vibrant culture, of course, Peru is a memorable destination. No matter your inclination or age, Peru Spirit Adventure has an exhilarating adventure ready to take you deep into the heart of Peru. From coastal metropolises, the lively Lima city, with its museums, galleries, and buzzing cuisine scene to the Peruvian Andes to explore Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, Sacred Valley with its bustling markets overflowing with vivid textiles and handicrafts, and end up with the most revered ruins in the world like Machu Picchu or keep exploring the dramatic snow-capped peaks, the vivid colors of Rainbow Mountain in the Andes Mountains with our carefully crafted custom tour packages in Southern of Peru

Best Tours & Trips to Machu Picchu

Embark an exceptional private tours of machu picchu in peru with an expert tour guide.

• Tour to Machu Picchu with Vistadome Train 1 Day
• Machu Picchu Tour by Train – 2 Days / 1 Night
• Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Tour 2D/1N
• Cusco City Tour, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Tour 3D/2N
• Sacred Valley 2 Day & Machu Picchu – 3 Days / 2 Nights
• 4D/3N Cusco City, Sacred Valley 2 Day & Machu Picchu Tour
• Sacred Valley & Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 3D/2N
• 2-Day Moray, Maras Salt Mines & Machu Picchu Tour

The spectacular Inca citadel of Machu Picchu – Is the world’s greatest travel destination, a New Wonder of the World, South America’s top attraction, or purely a postcard-worthy ancient site that must be seen to be believed. Whether you travel to Machu Picchu by scenic train, hike the world-famous Inca Trail or venture off the beaten path, you’ll be able to enjoy a unique experience and discover the Lost City’s secrets. Once you step foot into this UNESCO World Heritage site, you’ll discover its refined architecture, spiritual meaning and astronomical importance. Machu Picchu – a bucket list experience!!

Best Inca Trail Tours to Machu Picchu Peru

Hike the famous inca trail to machu picchu, the best trekking route in all of south america.

• Inca Trail 4 Days Trek to Machu Picchu 
• Inca Trail 5 Days Tour to Machu Picchu
• Inca Trail Short 2 Days Trek to Machu Picchu
• Salkantay Trek + Classic Inca Trail 6D/5N
• 1 Day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
• 2 Days Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

The Inca Trail – Is one of the most iconic and famous trails in South America – perhaps the world – and a must-do, life-changing experience. This 26-mile (42km) trail to the 15th-century Inca citadel of Machu Picchu goes across the Andes mountains reaching 13,829 ft (4,215m) and it’s hiked in 4 days and 5 days. Along the route you’ll get to see some fascinating archaeological sites that can only be accessed by foot and witness a mix of ecosystems with abundance in fauna and flora where you’ll have high chances to spot gorgeous orchids, tall mountains ranging from the snow-capped Andes to the luscious cloud forest and in the middle of this region is where you’ll camp every night and live an unforgettable experience and this original Inca steps ends at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), the entrance to Machu Picchu city.

The Greatest Hikes in Peru

Alternative Treks To Machu Picchu & Off The Beaten Path Adventure Travel in Peru

SALKANTAY TREKS

• Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days
• Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days
• Salkantay Challenge Trek 3 Days
• Salkantay Trek + Classic Inca Trail 6 Days
• Salkantay Trail to Machu Picchu & Zipline 5 Days

AUSANGATE TREKS

• Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountains – 4 Days
• Ausangate 5 Day Trek + Rainbow Mountains Cusco
• Ausangate & Sibinacocha Lake 7D/6N

LARES TREKS

• Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 3D/2N
• Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail 5D/4N
• Lares Trek 4 Days to Machu Picchu

HUCHUY QOSQO TREKS

• Huchuy Qosqo 1 Day Hike
• Huchuy Qosqo Trek 2 Days (With Machu Picchu)
• Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 3D/2N

CHOQUEQUIRAO TREKS

• Choquequirao Trek 4D/3N
• Choquequirao Trek 5D/4N

ANCASCOCHA TREKS

• Ancascocha Challenge Trek 4D/3N
• Ancascocha Trek 5D/4N

INCA QUARRY TREKS

• Inca Quarry Trek 4D/3N
• Inca Quarry Trek + Short Inca Trail 5D/4N

INCA JUNGLE TOURS

• Inca Jungle 4 Days
• Inca Jungle 3 Days

DAY TRIPS IN CUSCO

Enjoy the best of the city of Cusco & surrond

• City Tour Cusco Half Day Tour – Morning or Afternoon 
• Cusco City Highlights & Surroundings Tour – 1 Day
• Maras Moray & Salt Mines Tour – Half Day
• 1-Day South Valley Tour of Cusco
• Walking Tour Cusco Half Day Tour
• Cusco Horseback riding – Half day

FULL DAY HIKES

Off The Beaten Path Cusco Day Hikes

• Full-Day Huchuy Qosqo Trek
• Inca Quarry Trail 1-Day Hike
• Chinchero to Urquillos One Day Trek
• Pumamarca Hike to Ollantaytambo – 1 Day
• Qeswachaka Bridge One Day Tour
• Tipon, Pikillacta & Andahuaylillas Tour – 1 Day

BEST SELLER DAY TOURS IN CUSCO

Discover the Best Day Hikes in Peru

• Rainbow Mountain One Day Tour
• Horseback Ride Rainbow Mountain 1-Day Tour
• Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain 1-Day Tour
• Humantay Lake One Day Tour
• 1-Day Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu
• Ausangate 7 Lakes 1-Day Hike

Peru's Best Sacred Valley Tours in Private Service

Discover the best of sacred valley with a customized tour on your terms.

• CLASSIC Sacred Valley Tour (Pisac & Ollantaytambo)
• ALTERNATIVE Sacred Valley Tour (Chinchero, Moray, Salt Mines & Ollantaytambo)
• EXTENDED Sacred Valley Tour (Pisac, Salt Mines, Moray & Ollantaytambo)
• SUPER Sacred Valley Tour (Chinchero, Salt Mines, Moray, Ollantaytambo & Pisac)
• FULL-DAY TOUR ( Moray, Salt Ponds of Maras & Pisac)
• SACRED VALLEY TOUR from OLLANTAYTAMBO to CUSCO

Peru’s Sacred Valley – Just one hour away from Cusco, it’s a destination full of adventure, culture, and glimpses into local Andean life; nestled in the verdant foothills of the snow-capped Andes, with a stunning landscape, dotted with little villages and ruins. Explore Pisac and Ollantaytambo to witness and wander around stunning hillside Incan ruins, visit Chinchero to experience a traditional market day in the valley. Do not miss the ancient salt pans, known as the Maras Salt Mines and the Inca experimental terraces of Moray.

Rainbow Mountain Treks & Tours

Hike to the incredible rainbow mountain or vinicunca mountain in peru.

• Rainbow Mountain Trek & Red Valley 2 Days
• Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain Trek 3 Days
• Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountains 4 Days
• Machu Picchu Tour & Rainbow Mountain 5 Days 

Vinicunca Mountain — also known as the Mountain of Seven Colors, or more simply Rainbow Mountain — was discovered four years ago when the snow covering it melted, revealing the natural beauty of the rock beneath. A visit to Rainbow Mountain is an absolute must for all those who love stunning landscapes and gorgeous scenery. This hike to Rainbow Mountain offer you one of the earth’s most amazing natural wonders in Peru.

Best Guided Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountain Tour 5 Days

5 Days & 4 Nights Tour Package | Starting From: $ per person

5 Days & 4 Nights Tour Package

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Peru Spirit Adventure » Tours » Machu Picchu Tours » Best Guided Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountain Tour 5 Days

Machu Picchu Tour and Rainbow Mountain 5 Days

The astounding adventure of world wonders & inca architecture.

Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain Tour – Explore the essential highlights of Peru’s Sacred Valley on this 5-day tour, including visits to Cusco, Machu Picchu , and Rainbow Mountain . This five-day tour package offers you to explore the living history and breathtaking scenery of the Peruvian highlands on this incredible experience of Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain adventure, and be in awe of its natural beauty. Make your dream come true and enjoy all the most beautiful places that Cusco has to offer; on a fully supported tour with Peru Spirit Adventure private crew.

In this tour Machu Picchu + Rainbow Mountain for 5 days you’ll begin in the Imperial City and discover what made Cusco the center of the Inca Empire! Then, you’ll head to visit the ruins of Sacsayhuaman , Q’enqo, Tambomachay before embarking to Sacred Valley to visit the fascinating archaeological site of Pisac. After, you will take a tour of Sacred Valley where you’ll visit the weavers at Chinchero, the agricultural laboratory of Moray, Maras Salt Mines , as well as Ollantaytambo .

After exploring Ollantaytambo’s Inca fortress , you’ll take the train to the legendary city of Machu Picchu, one of the grandest and most enthralling sites in Latin America and the whole world , for a privately guided tour. This 5-day package adventure doesn’t end there. Then, you’ll journey through a land of wild desert landscapes, snow-capped peaks, and herds of alpacas to arrive at your ultimate destination: the rainbow-painted slopes of Mount Vinicunca hidden deep in the Andes .

Trip Details For Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountain 5 Days

Tour Location: This Tour of Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain, is situated in southeastern Peru of the Andes Mountains. Tour Type: History and culture tour through the majestic place of Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley of the Incas and Cusco before embarking to see the amazing VINICUNCA RAINBOW MOUNTAIN in a one day hike

Physical Grading: ★☆☆☆☆ Easy, gentle walk, stone steps, and small elevation changes along the way, and some walks on uneven trails; and the hike to Rainbow Mountain is Moderate to difficult, depending on level of physical fitness.

Group size: Min 2 ppl, Max 8 ppl. Minimum of 2 people required to organize this tour. We take only small groups & private trips, to enhance the experience giving you the full attention of our guides and staff.

Need to book in Advance: Yes. We recommend that all of our customers make their reservations well in advance of their arrival date. Train tickets, entry tickets and good hotels are highly in demand and sell out early, especially during the high season or if you want to climb up Huayna Picchu Mountain. If you reserve early, then we can guarantee everything. For last minute reservations, we will do our best depending on what train tickets and hotels are available.

What's it like

• TRAVEL GUIDE

Experience The spectacular Citadel of Machu Picchu + Rainbow Mountain of 7 Colors in 5 Days on our best Peru tour!!!

If you want to enjoy the best of Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and the Rainbow Mountain and learn all about the amazing history of the Incas, and take a deep breath and admire all of its sheer natural beauty, our 5 Day Rainbow Mountain and Machu Picchu tour is for you.

Embark on an exciting trip through the wonderful and ancient Citadel of Machu Picchu and Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain; whether you´re traveling by yourself, as a couple, or in a group, we’ll plan your itinerary down to the last details, so all you have to do is enjoy yourself, with a private guide at your side!

This 5-day tour will take you through the most important and surprising tourist attractions in southern Peru, with a professional guide to see Incas fortresses, Temples, ancient constructions, New 7 Wonders of the World, and spend a full day hike following deserted highland paths through alpaca and llama herds to the Rainbow Mountain.

Highlights of the Machu Picchu Tour and Rainbow Mountain 5 Days

• Explore Cusco, the capital of the Inca Empire, and discover the most important places of interest in Cuzco’s historic center and what made this city so special
• Head to Sacsayhuaman in the morning to avoid the crowd and explore the incredible Inca ruins surrounding the city, including the Inca site of Pisac and market on this guided tour
• Take a tour of the most significant sites in the Sacred Valley of the Incas and be astounded by Inca architecture in the company of Peru Spirit Adventure’s private guide
• Ride along one of the most beautiful railways in the world and observe as the scenery change from the mountainous Andes to the thicker jungle
• Discover the secrets of the mystical Machu Picchu – one of the New Seven Wonder of the World and UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Stare in awe at the incredible natural beauty of Rainbow Mountain and its fascinating array of colors, nestled in a remote region of the Andes Mountains

Itinerary At a Glance

We welcome you to cusco – walking tour of cusco city.

Arrive in Cusco. After a short break in your hotel, embark on the Cusco city walking tour to discover the main attractions and learn about the history of Cusco’s city. During this walking tour explore The Plaza de Armas of Cusco, The Cathedral, The 12 angled Stone street, Loreto Street, as well as Qoricancha or Temple of the Sun.

Sacsayhuaman & Nearby Ruins + Pisac (ruins & Market)

Spend the day exploring the archaeological sites of Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Tambomachay, located on a high hill above Cusco, then explore Pisac Ruins and Market in the Sacred Valley; including the visit Llama and Alpaca Farm.

Sacred Valley Tour (Chinchero, Moray, Maras, Ollantaytambo) – Aguas Calientes

Embark on a tour of Sacred Valley of the Incas and visit the weavers at Chinchero and the most significant Inca sites, such as Moray Inca agricultural ruins, Maras salt mines, as well as Ollantaytambo before making your way to Machu Picchu Pueblo by train. You will spend the night there in a hotel.

Aguas Calientes – Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

Wake up early to explore the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu on a guided tour. This afternoon, you will board the train to Ollantaytambo and then continue in our private transport back to Cusco

Cusco – Cusipata – Rainbow Mountain – Cusipata – Cusco

Head out of Cusco for an epic day hike to rainbow Mountain or Vinicunca. Enjoy breakfast and lunch, too, before coming back to the city in the early evening

Why experience the Machu Picchu Tour and Rainbow Mountain 5 Days

• In this 5 days tour through Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain you will be able to see all the most beautiful places that Cusco has to offer.
• Experience the highlight in the Sacred Valley of the Incas and get immersed with the history of the Incas and culture
• You will discover the beauty of the Vinicunca -also known as Rainbow Mountain of 7 Colors – which attracts thousands of tourists due to its uniqueness and incredible natural beauty.
• Small-group tour of 2-8 people for big adventures with passionate private local leaders or guides to get a true lifetime experience We designed this Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain itinerary for those who want both the ancient Inca history and outdoor adventure

Full Itinerary of the Machu Picchu Tour and Rainbow Mountain 5 Days

Pre-tour briefing: We’ll meet you at your hotel lobby in Cusco the night before the “Machu Picchu Tour and Rainbow Mountain 5 Days” to go over the itinerary and you’ll able to take this opportunity to ask final questions and make any final preparations. The meeting will be at 5:00 pm the evening before the trek begins. In case you can´t at this time “please let us know” to coordinate another time.

Day 1: : We welcome you to Cusco – Walking Tour of Cusco City

Upon arrival at the Cusco airport, a representative of Peru Spirit Adventure will be greeted you to take you directly to your hotel accommodation. After a transfer to your hotel in Cusco and assistance with the check in, you’ll be provided with everything needed in preparation for your upcoming journey. The imperial city of Cusco is located at an altitude of 3,400 m / 11,155 ft so you’ll need some time to acclimatize.

After a short rest, we’ll pick you up from your hotel at 1:00 pm to start our walking tour of Cusco city and discover the main attractions and learn about the history of Cusco’s city. Firstly, we’ll visit The Plaza de Armas of Cusco, which is a wonderful place to immerse in the local atmosphere and watch the world go by. While you marvel at the exquisite architecture of the place, our guide will share with you a bit of Inca history to help you better understand the ancient culture.

We’ll then continue with a visit the impressive Cusco Cathedral that holds approximately 300 paintings from the famous Cusqueña School in the city. Next, your tour guide will take you to see The Twelve Angle Stone of Hatunrumiyoc, one of the most sophisticated examples of their ingenuity, with its 12 angles fitting seamlessly into the surrounding wall.

Subsequently, you’ll visit the fascinating Qorikancha or Temple of the Sun, probably the most important Inca site within the city of Cusco. At the end of the day, we will take you to the door of your hotel to enjoy a relaxing night. You’ll have time to get a spot for dinner before heading to bed for another exciting day tomorrow.

Day 2: : Sacsayhuaman & Nearby Ruins + Pisac (ruins & Market)

After delicious breakfast at your hotel, we will pick you up at your hotel in Cusco at 8:00 am, with our private van and take you to visit the impressive Inca fortress of Sacsayhuaman, located to the north of Cusco city. Its characterized by having been built with huge rocks that weigh tons. Ancient Inca architects cut and polished these giant rocks to built zigzag walls that span hundreds of meters.

Despite only a small portion of the original site remaining, the colossal dimensions of Sacsayhuaman continue to inspire and surprise its visitors. Each year on June 24th, The Inti Raymi is celebrated here to worship the Sun.

Next, we’ll visit Qenqo temple, carved from a single stone block. This temple has manmade tunnels, one of which forms an amphitheater. The original purpose of the amphitheater has been lost over time, but most experts agree that the area was used to worship the sun, moon, and stars. Then, you will visit Tambomachay, an Inca archaeological site that boasts a series of aqueducts and channels with two water fountains.

After exploring the Sacsayhuaman’s fortress and nearby ruins, we’ll drive to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, on the way we’ll visit the Alpaca and Llama farm, a place where we will learn about these South American camelids. Afterwards, our trip continues to Pisac town to enjoy lunch (not included) at one of the Sunday stalls in the main square.

Following lunch, we will head to the Inca archaeological site of Pisac, located high above the mountains in the Sacred Valley with great farming terraces, which cover the tall hillsides, and stunning constructions at the temple of the sun. After a great exploration of the Incan ruins, we will drive back to Cusco and drop you off at your hotel. Meals are not included. This is a full-day tour on a private roomy and comfy Van and a private guide.

Day 3: : Sacred Valley Tour (Chinchero, Moray, Maras, Ollantaytambo) – Aguas Calientes

Our full-day Sacred Valley tour will take you to some of the most impressive sights, including Chinchero, Moray Ruins, Maras Salt Mines and Ollantaytambo before traveling by train to Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo.

We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 7:30 am to start our tour of sacred valley and travel to the beautiful town of Chinchero (3,762 m /12,343 ft) known by its textile. There you’ll find beautiful architecture, farming, and agricultural terraces as well as fine textile art.

Our next place to explore is the stunning Moray archaeological site (3,385 m / 11,106 ft), also known as “The Greenhouses of the Incas” made up of rounded shape terraces which have different types of temperatures at each platform, that was made to acclimate the Andean plants like potato, beans, corn, etc

After exploring and feeling the energy of this intriguing Inca site of Moray, we will drive to Maras Salt Mines which are close to the colonial town of Maras. These are a set of more than 3,000 small pools from which salt is extracted since the pre-Incan times, and today locals still farm the salt by hands as the Incans used to do it. Besides, this salt has a pink hue and is well known for its healing properties and delicious flavor. It makes for a great gift for someone back home and is perfect for cooking with.

We’ll then drive onto Urubamba to enjoy a Peruvian buffet lunch of many different traditional dishes for you to choose from. After a rest, it’s time to head aboard our private transport to Ollantaytambo where we’ll visit the fortress of Ollantaytambo from the XV century what become an important strategic military center, as well as, agriculture and religious centers needed to control the whole Inca’s sacred valley. This archeological place was built as an overlap terrace with huge carved stones that were brought from 8km/5 miles away.

In the evening, we will catch a train at 19:04pm to travel to Machu Picchu Pueblo and 2 hrs later we’ll be at Aguas Calientes and overnight at Inti Punku Machupicchu Hotel & Suites or La Cabaña. It’s a full day tour on a private van and private guide.

Day 4: : Aguas Calientes – Historic Santuary of Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

After a well-deserved night of rest, the day you’ve been so excited for has arrived: Today, you’ll stroll through the magical and mysterious streets of the historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.

Our day begins bright and early at down to make sure we beat the large crowds and so you can enjoy the site in peace. We’ll board a bus that’ll take around 25 minutes to get to the entrance of the Inca city, and we’ll enter just before the sun begins to pint this impressive place with a golden hue.

Take some time to soak up the vibes and impressive view of one of the 7 Wonder of the World and feel how its powerful energy vibrates. You’ll take a guided tour for 2 hours to the most important areas and then have plenty of time to explore Machu Picchu on your own. If you have the extra entry ticket, you can hike up to the imposing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for a spectacular panoramic view of the entire complex.

Around noon, you can take the bus to Aguas Calientes or walk back through the middle of the dense vegetation that’ll surround you on a downhill hike. Don’t worry, the whole way is signposted, and it’s a pretty route if you fee up to it.

You’ll have the afternoon free to have lunch at the restaurant of your choice and take a walk around the rest of this pretty town. Your train will leave for Ollantaytambo at sunset, but don’t forget to be at the station 30 minutes earlier than the departure time! From Ollantaytambo, we’ll take you back to your hotel in Cusco.

Day 5: : Cusco – Cusipata – Rainbow Mountain – Cusipata – Cusco

Our Rainbow Mountain 1 Day Hike Tour program starts early in the morning! We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 4:00 am, with our private van, and travel around two-hour to the south of Cusco until arriving to the village of Cusipata, where we’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast.

Following breakfast, we’ll back to our van to keep driving for 1 hour to the Rainbow Mountain trailhead, known as Phulawasipata. The trek will last approximately 1.5 hours to 2 hours to Vinicunca Pass, the classic viewpoint for Rainbow Mountain. Along the way, we will appreciate the typical landscape and flora and fauna of the Andes, among which Llamas and Alpacas stand out.

Upon reaching the viewpoint of Vinicunca or Montaña de Colores (5,200 m/ 17,060 ft.), we’ll have sweeping panoramic views of not only Rainbow Mountain or Vinicunca Mountain but also the Ausangate snow-capped mountain range (the highest in Cusco), the valley with grazing alpacas and the ‘Red Valley’ in the distance.

At the top of Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca, we will spend about 45 minutes admiring the unique beauty of this natural formation and feel the thrill of witnessing an unforgettable spectacle. After having a great time at famous Rainbow Mountain of Peru taking photos and exploring the surroundings.

We´ll then return by the same route for about 1.5hrs to the point where we started the trek, where our transport will be waiting to take us back to Cusipata; here we will enjoy the lunch. After lunch we will start the return trip to the city of Cusco, arriving between 4 and 5 in the afternoon. Then, we will drop you off at your hotel.

What’s Included For Machu Picchu Tour and Rainbow Mountain 5 Day

• Pick up and drop off at the airport
• Four night 3-star hotel in Cusco
• Half-day walking tour in Cusco city
• Entrance tickets to the Inca Cities and all archeological sites we visit
• All transfer service on a private Van with a professional driver
• Professional guide fluent in English & Spanish for all the tours
• Round trip Expedition Train Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
• One night 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
• Roundtrip bus ticket Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu
• Machu Picchu entrance ticket (First entrance time: 6am to 10am)
• Rainbow Mountain Hike 1 Day
• 2 hot meals at Rainbow Mountain tour – breakfast and lunch with an option for vegetarians

What Is Not Included

• Hotel before/after the tours
• Meals: Meals are not included unless otherwise noted but our guides will recommend some good places (except for breakfast and lunch in the Rainbow Mountain tour)
• Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain (US $75 p/ person)
• Entrance to Machu Picchu Mountain (US $75 p/ person)
• Entrance to hot springs (25 soles)
• Upgrade to Vistadome Train – $67 USD (the train is the only way back)
• Tipping for guides, porters or muleteers, and other staff.
• Travel interruption & travel medical/evacuation insurance (required)

What your should for 5-Day Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain Tou

• Original passport (if you have acquired a new one after you made your booking, bring both)
• A small backpack or carry bag (larger not allowed on the train or in Machu Picchu)
• A change of clothing
• Comfortable walking shoes or runners
• Hiking trousers
• Water to drink
• Rain jacket or poncho
• A fleece or jacket
• Basic toiletries
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Deep or Insect repellent for mosquitoes
• Hat for the sun
• Some extra money for lunch, snacks, tips, and souvenirs

Price of the Tour Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain 5 Days

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Why Peru Spirit Adventures!

Peru Spirit Adventure is a family owned travel agency and a local tour operator based in Cusco, Peru, in the Ancient Capital of the Inca Empire! Peru Spirit Adventure was founded by a Peruvian with over many years of guiding experience, and is a 100% Cusqueñian Company without any shareholders.

We are an agency with a great spirit of adventure and passionate about travel, dedicated to offer the best tourist services, to take you to discover the vast riches, natural and archaeological of each corner of the country.

We provide high quality service as well as focusing on having small groups to enhance the travel experience and customize any tour or trek to suit your travel, fitness, budget, and time preferences. This is what makes us stand out from other tour operators.

We create small personalized tours & treks strictly and only operated by local professional staff catering in PERSONALIZED and HIGH QUALITY SERVICE. Our guides in Peru are hand selected by the owners of Peru Spirit Adventure. All guides for our tours and treks are native to Peru and speak fluent English to ensure excellent communication and a positive experience overall.

We pride ourselves on providing 5 star service before, during, and after your trip. Peru Spirit Adventure is dedicated to excellent customer service and adventure experiences. We have been awarded from Trip Advisor the Certificate of Excellence for the last three years. Please check out our reviews and certificates of excellence on,  TRIPADVISOR  for yourself!

We are direct operators of all the tours and treks we offer, from family trips, honeymoon trips and luxury travel, including adventure tours to Peruvian Andes. Please email us to customize your trip in Peru.

Our tours & treks are operated in private service with a mínimum of 2 people to confirm the departure – Max 8 / Average 4 guests, ensuring a small group feel and specialized attention.

We are a responsible and sustainable tour operator – Our mission is to provide exceptional tours, treks, and adventure trips. During our trips, we make every effort to minimize negative impacts and maximize the benefits to the local people and natural environments we visit. We pay fair, livable wages, ensuring we hire and maintain the absolute best guides and support staff. We are proud of our team without them, we wouldn’t be able to offer the best service and lifetime experiences to our clie

Travel Guide

New machu picchu regulations.

In 1983 Machu Picchu was recognized as a World Heritage site by  UNESCO , the international organization that preserves and protects natural and cultural heritages around the world.  UNESCO  has been concerned with the increase of visitors to  Machu Picchu  in the last few years and worries that these crowds are damaging the ruins. They recommended new regulations to decrease the foot traffic in the ruins, which  Peru’s Ministry of Tourism and External Commerce  ( Mincetur ) has agreed to. These new regulations will take effect on  January 1, 2019 . All visitors will now be limited to 4-hour stays.

Tickets to  Machu Picchu  will now be separated into three daily shifts: early morning  (6 AM – 9 AM) , late morning (9 AM – 12 PM) and early afternoon ( 12 PM – 3 PM) . Within these shifts, visitors must designate a specific hour to visit. This is to regulate foot traffic into the ruins – each hour will be limited to 600 visitors so no more than 2400 visitors will be in the citadel at any time.

The new regulations will have a direct impact on hiking the two mountains next to  Machu Picchu :  Huaynapicchu  and  Machu Picchu Mountain .

In order to enjoy your tour of the ruins and hike Huaynapicchu without rushing, you will need an extra entrance ticket to the ruins extending your time allowed inside.  This means that Huaynapicchu tickets will go from $ 35 per person to $ 75 per person.

All tours include  entrance to Machu Picchu , but in order to hike  Huaynapicchu  safely, we will need to purchase a second  Machu Picchu  entrance ticket with the Huaynapicchu permit which will cost a total of $ 75 pp. These new rules will start on  January 1, 2019 , and will apply to all tours.

If you have booked Huaynapicchu with  Peru Spirit Adventure  and do not want to pay this higher fee, please write us to  [email protected]

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Our main email:  [email protected] / [email protected] Address:  Urb. Picchu Alto J – 5, Cusco – Peru​ Mobile:  +51 957 326 998 | +51 965 730 786 WhatsApp:  +51 957 326 998

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Sacred Valley Private Tours & Tailor Made with Local Experts

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Thank you so much for reaching out to us. Please complete the contact form below to tell us more about your dates, interests, the number of travelers, pick-up and drop-off places etc. We will do our best to help you organize your trip. You can be assured you will hear from us within 24 hours. Our Sacred Valley tour is available only in Private Service that offer you  the flexibility to design your own trip exactly how you like it, as well as the duration of the visit in each case, not being subject to a larger group itinerary and timings.

Terms & Conditions

Thank you for booking and/or traveling on a Peru Spirit Adventure tour with Peru Spirit Adventure. We are 100% local Cusqueñan company and legally recognized by Peruvian law. These Terms and Conditions apply to any travel products and/or services purchased from Peru Spirit Adventure. A contract is entered into once PERU SPIRIT ADVENTURE receives your booking form and deposit, and we accept and confirm the booking. Please note that travel arrangements are not confirmed until stated so in writing by PERU SPIRIT ADVENTURE. All Peru Spirit Adventure based treks and tours are operated by Peru Spirit Adventure.

BOOKING & PAYMENT

To reserve any of our tours and treks services, the customer must submit his or her personal information and a deposit. The personal information we require is the following: Full name (as appears on passport), Date of Birth, Nationality, Gender, and Passport number.

• A picture of their passport photo page. A camera phone picture or similar is acceptable.

Once the customer confirms their reservation, we will send an email within 24 hours with a confirmation of their tour or trek and the deposit amount and also, details of the services included and not included in the service price. Once we send this information to the customer, if we do not receive any response from the customer it will be assumed by the company that the customer has accepted all terms and conditions. We provide a full pre-tour briefing at your hotel in Cusco. This gives the customer the chance to ask any questions they may have about the tour or trek itinerary. — ABOUT THE BRIEFING:  The night before your tour or trek, there will be a pre-tour talk (briefing) at your hotel in Cusco at either 6:00 pm or 7:00 pm. (exact time will be confirmed by email). Once you receive your briefing time, if we do not hear back we will assume it is confirmed by you. Please take this into consideration when booking your travel plans to Cusco, ensuring you arrive in time for the briefing. If your tour or trek begins on a Monday then the briefing will be scheduled for the Saturday before.

• Please note that it is difficult to change the briefing time and date at short notice. Therefore, if we receive a request for a briefing change less than 48 hours prior to the scheduled briefing, we most likely will not be able to change the briefing time or date. We will, however, do everything we can to change to try and accommodate the schedule change.

We use PayPal for sending deposits, that way you can use your credit card. There is a 6% fee for deposits using PayPal (for the international transfer). We also use Western Union for sending deposits, Deposits through Western Union have variable fees. The deposit amount depends on the type of itinerary you will book, as follows;

• For all trek and multi-day tours,  we require a deposit of $250 USD per person — Deposits for tours and treks are non-refundable and non-transferable to another individual. There are no exceptions.
• For the Rainbow Mountain tours & hikes  we require a deposit of $100 USD per person — Deposits for tours and treks are non-refundable and non-transferable to another individual. There are no exceptions.
• For the Humantay Lake Day Trip,  we require a deposit of $100 USD per person — Deposits for tours and treks are non-refundable and non-transferable to another individual. There are no exceptions.
• For the Sacred Valley Tours & Trips,  we require a deposit of $100 USD (for the group) — Deposits for tours and treks are non-refundable and non-transferable to another individual. There are no exceptions.
• For the Cusco Half Day Tours,  we require a deposit of $50 USD (for the group) — Deposits for tours and treks are non-refundable and non-transferable to another individual. There are no exceptions.
• For large groups, we accept wire transfer for deposits and final balances due. If you would like more information about the wire transfer option, please email us at  [email protected]

FINAL PAYMENTS:  We accept cash and PayPal for final payments. A client may not depart for the tour or trek until payment in full is received, either in cash or by PayPal.

• Cash payments  are due the day before tour or trek departure and can be paid at the pre-tour or trek briefing. We accept US dollars and Peruvian soles for cash payments. If you will pay in US dollars.  Take note.  The Peruvian banks are extremely strict about the “quality” of dollars they will accept. Therefore, we have to request that your bills are what they call “unbroken”. Broken bills will not be accepted. Broken means — any tear (even as small as 3 mm) or excessive wrinkling
• PayPal payments  are due one week before the tour or trek departure.  a)  There is an 8% fee on balance due payments using PayPal.  b)  If the balance via PayPal is not paid by 3 days prior to trek departure, the PayPal fee will be 10%. Our PayPal email is: [email protected]
• All banking fees will be covered by the client

CANCELLATION POLICY FOR TOURS & TREKS:

Notification

• Notification of cancellation must always be made in writing by the person that made the booking and paid the deposit to  [email protected] .
• Your deposit for the tours and treks are 100% non-refundable. If you need to cancel for any reason, as you approach your tour start date, there may be additional cost due. There are no exceptions due to the fact, that  PERU SPIRIT ADVENTURE  expends a great deal of expense purchasing permits, entrance tickets, and making deposits for reservations or services, most of which are non-changeable, non-transferable, and non-refundable by government regulation. We also do not accept medical notes of any kind, as our out of pocket expenses are non-refundable to us.

CANCELLATION FEES

• Cancellations made 30 days in advance have no charge (with the exception of the non-refundable deposit) with the following exception:
• Inca Trail treks
• In the case of cancellation, the customer will not receive a refund of their deposit
• If the customer cancels between 30 and 10 days before their trek, they must pay 50% of the total trip cost.
• If the customer cancels between 10 and 3 days before their trek, they must pay 80% of the total cost.
• If the customer cancels 2 days or less before their trek, they must pay 100% of the total cost.
• In the exceptional case that a customer decides to leave once they have started the trek, no refund will be given. The customer must also pay any additional expenses they incur such as food, lodging, and transportation. On the last day, the customer will be able to rejoin the group and participate in the Machu Picchu tour.
• If after the tour has started a client cannot participate in the trek or tour (due to sickness, physical problems, etc.) no refund will be given. The customer must also pay any additional costs they incur for transportation, lodging, and food. On the last day, the tourist will be able to rejoin the group and participate in the Machu Picchu tour.
• In the case of natural disaster that prevents a service being completed, the customer will receive a 50% refund.
• In the case of a natural disaster that requires a change in the trek route, but the trek is still completed, there will be no refund.
• In the very unlikely circumstance that your service is not completed due to a fault of Peru Spirit Adventure, you will receive a full refund (including your deposit).

INCA TRAIL TOURS

• PERMITS:  Permits for the Inca Trail are in your name and can not be transferred to anyone else under any circumstances. Change of dates is also not possible once a permit has been purchased. Permits are non-refundable and non-transferable. The deposit will be forfeited. Please note that this is a regulation of the Peruvian government and not Peru Spirit Adventure (or any agency).
• In extreme cases when the “Inca Trail to Machu Picchu” is declared closed for safety reasons, Peru Spirit Adventure will replace your trek with an alternative trek.
• Those who booked PERMITS with a Student ID must bring that ID with them on the trek. If they fail to show this card to the Park Rangers, they will not be allowed entry onto the trail.

CHANGES MADE BY CLIENT

• Please note that for the Inca Trail, permits are not-changeable, not-transferable, and not-refundable. Dates can never be changed by government policy.

With the exception of the Inca Trail treks, we are generally able to change a trek date.

• To change the date of your non-Inca Trail trek, there is a fee of US $75 per person if the change occurs more than 30 days prior to trek departure.
• If the change occurs 21 to 30 days prior to trek departure, the fee is US $100 per person.
• If the change occurs 10 to 20 days before trek departure, the fee is US $150 per person.
• Changes less than 10 days prior to trek departure will have varying fees, which can be discussed at the time the change is being made.
• Changes made must be to another group trek for a minimum of 2 individuals. If a single traveler needs to change dates, and there is not an existing option for that date, the change will not be possible.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

• We highly recommend travel insurance for all of our customers.
• Coverage should include baggage loss, accident, emergency air rescue and trip cancellation. Trip cancellation insurance should reimburse you for non-recoverable air or land expenses should you cancel your trip due to personal or family illness, as well as covering any medical or emergency evacuation expenses if you become ill during your trip.
• In the case of illness or injury on one of our treks or tours, we are trained to provide emergency first aid and arrange transportation to a proper medical facility. However, we are not responsible for the cost of those transportation services or the cost of medical care.

ABOUT YOUR PASSPORT IN MACHU PICCHU, HUAYNA PICCHU AND ON THE INCA TRAIL:

• Once you book your tour, we send your information immediately to “Machu Picchu Park” in order for permits to be issued as soon as possible.
• You will need to bring your actual passport for all services. A photocopy will not be accepted.
• If your passport number changes between reserving your spot and the start of your trek, you will need to bring your old as well as your new passport to the start of the Trek.
• If any of the information on your passport does not match the information we were previously provided, you won’t be able to start the trek.
• If you arrive in Cusco and did not advise us that you have a new passport number, and that your information has changed, Peru Spirit Adventure will not be held responsible. In this situation it will be the responsibility of the customer to pay the extra expense of returning to Cusco or Machu Picchu (transportation, food and other expenses).

TRAVEL IN PERU:   Peru Spirit Adventure  operates in regions, where standards of accommodation can vary. Transportation and other services might not be like those you would normally have back home. However, we strive with all due care and skill, to provide the best service for our clients. Traveling in Peru requires flexibility, patience, broad-mindedness, good humor and an understanding that changes may be made without notice due to circumstances or occurrences beyond our control. For example: a strike, protest, landslide, bad weather, etc. ( Force Majeure ). By booking any of our tours & treks, you agree to allow  Peru Spirit Adventure  to make necessary changes without liability.

FORCE MAJEURE

Force Majeure is any event that PERU SPIRIT ADVENTURE cannot with all due care foresee, control or avoid. This covers events such as war or threat of war, riot, civil strike, terrorist activity, industrial dispute, disease, natural disasters, adverse weather conditions, fire or all similar events beyond our control. In this case, PERU SPIRIT ADVENTURE will not accept liability and reserves the right to change, postpone or even cancel trips. (This is a last option, of course!)

By booking any of our adventure trips (Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Lares, Salkantay, Ausangate, Choquequirao, Rainbow Mountain trek and more) you assume the risks associated with personal accidents, medical emergencies, air travel problems etc. For these treks, PERU SPIRIT ADVENTURE Agency accepts no responsibility.

FULL TERMS & CONDITIONS FOR ADVENTURE TOURS & TREKS

• You must advise Peru Spirit Adventure of any medical problems or allergies you may have. You need to be in good physical health, and if your health is questionable, then you should consult a doctor. If you are over the age of 70 years old, then you will need to present us with a current good health medical certificate.
• You must advise your guide if you wish to leave the group or the camping area for independent walks or sightseeing. If you are experiencing any problems with the services of the guide or tour, please advise the guide in that moment, so that he can resolve any problems.
• All balances need to be paid in either cash or PayPal (see “ FINAL PAYMENTS ” section above).
• In order to receive a student discount, you must send your valid University ID to Peru Spirit Adventure at the time of booking. ID must have your name, photo and valid expiration date. Any card without an expiration date will not be accepted. You will then be required to bring your student card with you on the trek – they will not allow you to pass through the checkpoint without this original card.
• You will be required to show the original passport (not a copy) that you booked with, at the checkpoint to enter the Inca Trail. If you originally booked with an old passport and then renewed your passport, you must also bring your expired passport along with your new, valid passport to permit entry or they will refuse your entrance to the trail.
• Cancellations: Your deposit is 100% non-refundable. If you need to cancel for any reason, as you approach your tour start date, there may be additional cost due. There are absolutely no exceptions (we do not accept medical notes of any kind) as our out of pocket expenses are non-refundable to us (see  “CANCELLATION FEES”  section above).
• PERMITS: Permits for the Inca Trail are in your name and can not be transferred to anyone else under any circumstances. Change of dates is also not possible once a permit has been purchased. Permits are non-refundable and non-transferable. The deposit will be forfeited. Please note that this is a regulation of the Peruvian government and not PERU SPIRIT ADVENTURE (or any agency).
• All Adventure Treks include transportation to Cusco. The return train route depends on train availability.
• If you become ill or injured on the trail and are unable to continue, a porter will be provided to accompany you back to an area with emergency assistance capabilities. Helicopter airlifts and medical assistance are at the expense of the trekker. If you are unable to complete the tour due to illness, we will assist you in meeting your group at Machu Picchu to recommence your tour at that point. There will be no refund of the original payment.
• PERU SPIRIT ADVENTURE will take all reasonable care in providing to our clients avoidance of accident, illness, and loss of personal property, and will only employ suitably qualified staff. We accept responsibility for the actions of our own employees. Peru Spirit Adventure cannot, however, be responsible for any action of third parties. You are totally responsible for your own personal property and rented equipment.
• PERU SPIRIT ADVENTURE does not take responsibility for unfavorable weather conditions, natural catastrophe, strikes, accidents, illness, injury, loss of personal ítems, etc. It is the client’s responsibility to carry insurance to cover these types of events. We reserve the right to modify or cancel the program due to any of the unforeseen conditions listed above.

VERY IMPORTANT:

• We strongly suggest spending time at high altitude (above 3000 meters / 9842 feet)- in Cusco or another high altitude area for a minimum of 2- 4 days before undertaking your trip. This is in order to minimize the possible effects of altitude sickness. By drinking plenty of fluids, adding sugar to your drinks, eating food high in carbohydrates, avoiding cigarettes, alcohol, and drinking coca tea (ancient traditional leaf) will help your body acclimatize.
• We recommend you arrive in Cusco 48 hours or more before trek departure because occasionally we need to leave earlier than scheduled in case of strikes or other events out of our control (see ‘Force Majeure’ section below)

RIGHT TO USE PICTURES

You accept and grant to Peru Spirit Adventure – Tour Operator the right to use your images, photos, and videos that show or describe during your participation in any tour, trekking or adventure, in any advertising of any type, without payment of any additional consideration.

Thanks again for choosing us and we look forward to seeing you in Cusco!

Peru Spirit Adventure Team!

Who is  Peru Spirit Adventure ? We are a small tour operator company owned by a local  Peruvian experts  with more than 10 years of experience as a guide.  Our office is based in Cusc o, a city in the Peruvian Andes and is located near the central square, Plaza del Armas. Our team is made up of  knowledgeable  and  passionate  tour guides from  Cusco  and  Andes  with many years of experience  Read more

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Questions and Comments

How to make reservations?

Please contact us through this page by filling out the ENQUIRY form, ask first for availability, and we will give you all the information on how to book the “ Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain Tour 5 Days ,” and once we agree, you will book the requested tour, otherwise, we cannot assure availability.

Additional hikes after the guided tour in Machu Picchu

• Huayna Picchu Mountain – the ticket is $75 per person
• Machu Picchu mountain – this ticket is $75 per person

Student Discount

• US$20.00 off

Student discounts apply to anyone 17-years-old or younger, and we need a copy of their passport at booking time. Please send all to  [email protected]

Inquire now

Cusco & Machu Picchu Tour

6-day special 1: machu picchu, cusco, sacred valley, day 1: arrival in lima, day 2: arrival in cusco, day 3: cusco city tour, day 4: sacred valley tour, day 5: machu picchu tour, day 6: departure from cusco.

Few places are more magical or mysterious than Machu Picchu. Perched on a mountain ridge 7,972 feet (2,430 m) above sea level, the citadel in the sky was built at the height of the Inca Empire in the 1400s. When Spanish conquerors invaded Peru in the 1530s, the city was abandoned and seemingly forgotten — until 1911, when explorer Hiram Bingham laid eyes on the mist-shrouded ruins, publicized his discovery in the pages of National Geographic, and brought worldwide attention to this incredible site..

This Machu Picchu tour package is your chance to see this historic wonder for yourself. You’ll start in Cusco, once the capital of South America’s most powerful civilization. You’ll tour the Sacred Valley, home to the ruins of Inca palaces and temples and thriving Andean villages and markets set amidst landscapes that will take your breath away. And you’ll embark on a stunning journey by train along the banks of the Urubamba River to the “lost city of the Incas.

Upon arrival at the Lima airport, meet our Peru For Less representative and walk or take a short car ride to your airport hotel. Overnight in Lima.

Transfer from your hotel to the airport for your flight to Cusco. Upon arrival at the Cusco airport, meet our Peru For Less representative for the 20-minute drive to your hotel in the historic center. As you approach the oldest sections of the city, gorgeous examples of Spanish colonial architecture will draw your eye. Look closely and you might see the remains of Inca stonework - these are the former palaces and temples of the former Inca imperial capital. After check-in at your Cusco hotel, you have the rest of the day to start exploring the city on your own. Remember to take it easy on this first afternoon since Cusco is located at 11,300 feet in elevation. Most travelers acclimate within 1-2 days and have no trouble with slow-paced activities. Wander about the main square, visit a museum, or stop by one of the many shops or cafes. Don’t miss out on the chance to sample Peruvian cuisine in one of Cusco’s many casual and/or fine dining restaurants.

Spend the morning at your leisure. This is a good time to explore some of Cusco’s less-visited attractions including the famous San Pedro Market, the bohemian neighborhood of San Blas, or one of Cusco’s many fine museums. Get a glimpse of Peru’s long artistic heritage at the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, hone your knowledge of the Inca Empire at the Casa Concha (“Machu Picchu Museum”), or make your own chocolate from scratch at the Choco Museum. In the afternoon, meet our expert Cusco guide to tour the city’s must-see attractions. Stops include the Cusco Cathedral in the Plaza de Armas, the fabulous Temple of the Sun or Qoricancha, the gargantuan ruins of the Sacsayhuaman fortress/temple overlooking the city, as well as the ruins of Q'enko, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay nearby. In the late afternoon, return to your Cusco hotel and spend the evening at your leisure. Enjoy the local cuisine and the splendor of Cusco at night, the surrounding hills twinkling with lights and the sky overhead littered with stars.

Explore the beautiful Peruvian countryside with a full-day tour of the magical Sacred Valley, home to several royal estates of Incan emperors. First, visit the town of Pisac, famous for its bustling indigenous market and for the beautiful Inca ruins on the hillside overlooking the city. In the market, browse stalls brimming with beautiful handicrafts and handwoven garments. In the center of the market, village women in traditional dress gather to buy and sell local fruits, vegetables, and other natural products. While exploring the Pisac ruins above, wander narrow paths with walls of spectacularly cut stones and enjoy stunning views of the village and the Sacred Valley below. After Pisac, stop for lunch (not included) at a buffet restaurant to sample a variety of Peruvian and international dishes near the town of Urubamba. The town is named after the sacred river (whose upper stretch is called the Vilcanota) that flows through the valley, on its way to Machu Picchu and eventually the Amazon jungle. Next, visit the spectacular fortress of Ollantaytambo. These magnificent Inca ruins that cling to the hillside were part of the royal estate of the Incan emperor Pachacuti. Later, during the Incas' heroic resistance against the Spaniards, a great battle was fought, during which the Spaniards were repelled by the guerrilla emperor Manco Inca. The small town of Ollantaytambo at its base still has Inca houses, making Ollantaytambo the only Inca city that is still inhabited today. The tour ends at your comfortable hotel in the Sacred Valley. If you've selected a hotel in Ollantaytambo, you can explore the former Incan town at your leisure, which still boasts mountain water coursing through Inca-built gutters in the center of its streets and where many of the inhabitants still speak the Incan language, Quechua.

After breakfast at your Sacred Valley hotel, take a train to Machu Picchu, the hidden Inca citadel. This 2.5-hour train journey is one of the finest in the world. Much of the path winds along the rushing Vilcanota river and snakes through gorges cut into the bases of massive mountainsides, offering passengers dramatic views of the Andean landscape as the train descends from high altitude plains down through the cloud forest. The foliage dramatically changes as the train approaches the meeting point of the Andes and the Upper Amazon rainforest, providing visitors an intimate view of one of the most spectacular transitions in the world. The train arrives in Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu, which is surrounded by tall granite cliffs and a cloud forest inhabited by orchids and hummingbirds. Meet our representative at the train station gates and walk to the bus station for a 20-minute ride up to the secluded Inca citadel high atop a mountain ridge. Next, meet your expert, English-speaking guide for a 2-hour tour of the most important sites in Machu Picchu, including the Intihuatana (Sun Stone), the Sun Temple, and the Room of 3 Windows. Machu Picchu is ranked as one of the “must see” archaeological sites in the world. Royal palaces, temples and astronomical observatories cling to a granite spur some 2,000 feet above the valley floor, affording spectacular views of the cloud-wreathed Andes and the Urubamba River far below. After your tour, you have the option to explore more of the ruins on your own and capture some final photos. In the late afternoon, take a comfortable train back to Cusco and then meet our driver for a transfer to your Cusco hotel for the evening. Want an extra day at Machu Picchu? Customize this package to include an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. The next morning, make a second visit to get your fill of the enigmatic citadel and then return to Cusco in the evening. *Optional: Hike up Huayna Picchu, the peak overlooking the Machu Picchu ruins. This hike is steep and takes about 3 hours round trip to complete, but affords spectacular views of the surrounding Andes and views over the Machu Picchu citadel from above. Numerous Inca burials have been found in cavities on this mountain. Please let your Travel Advisor know if you’d like to add this to your itinerary.

After breakfast at your hotel, meet our representatives at your hotel and transfer to the airport for your journey home or on to your next destination. Alternatively, choose one of our other exciting Cusco tours or Sacred Valley excursions, or browse our full range of Peru travel destinations to make the most of your vacation

• 1 night in Lima, 3 nights in Cusco and 1 night in the Sacred Valley in Peru Hotels based on US standards
• All tours stated in the itinerary with English-speaking guides
• Ground transportation and entrance fees
• Breakfast at all hotels
• Trains: Ollantaytambo - Machu Picchu - Cusco (Vistadome Train for 5-star and 4-star packages / Expedition Train for 3-star packages)
• Budget tours are designed to offer the best value and comfort possible, and have some variations compared to our 3, 4, and 5-star packages. Call or email us to learn more about our Budget tours.
• Lunches or dinner (unless otherwise specified)
• Airport taxes

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In 18 years of planning Peru tours, we’ve built a solid reputation for exceptional customer service. We go above and beyond for every one of our travelers, from the planning stage all the way to end of the trip — and that’s why we have the best reviews in the business. But don’t just take our word for it. Dig into our collection of 3,000+ letters and 300+ videos and hear straight from our clients, in their own words, how Peru For Less makes travel planning easy, effortless, and worry-free.

One of our memories was our meal at Tanta Restaurant. Thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to introduce us to Peru.

I think it was the little things that amazed us the most. Your attention to detail is uncanny and obviously why you are so good in the travel profession.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your efficiency and patience. To say that I had an incredible time would be a severe understatement.

Founded in 1998, Peru For Less and its highly qualified staff are experts in making dream vacations into reality. We work with clients to craft customizable itineraries based on your budget and your interests. We find quality hotels and we partner with exceptional tour guides and responsible drivers so that you feel safe, comfortable, and taken care of during your vacation.

We also monitor your trip 24/7 to make sure everything goes as planned. When there are bumps in the road, our in-country, English-speaking staff works full time to smooth things out. All you have to do is sit back and enjoy the wonders of Peru and South America.

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Contact us for a comfortable and personalized itinerary to Peru

( Optional. You may choose more than one)

You also can write us at: [email protected]

Packages start at USD$1,239 for our 4-day Cusco & Machu Picchu package (with domestic flights included.) We specialize in complete travel packages that allow you to enjoy your travels while we handle the logistics. Services are available as part of a full itinerary (3-days or more) including all hotels, tours and ground transportation.

• Machu Picchu Tour Packages
• Machu Picchu Travel Information
• Machu Picchu Maps
• Machu Picchu Pictures
• Machu Picchu Facts
• Best of Machu Picchu
• Machu Picchu Ruins

How to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco

Welcome to our guide on how to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco.

One of the new Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu is often the reason many travelers visit South America (let alone just Peru). And having been here ourselves, the photos are nothing compared to when you actually summit these ruins in person .

In this guide we’ll discuss the various ways you can get to Machu Picchu from Cusco, as well as how safe the site is. We’ll also mention our own top hiking tips for when you make the journey yourself.

Machu Picchu Quick Summary:

• 📍 Where is it: Southern Peru
• 🗺 Difficulty Getting there: Moderate/Easy
• ⏱ Time needed: 2+ Days
• ☀️ Best Time to Visit: September/October, March/April

What's in this guide?

Our Quick Answer : There are many ways, however the most popular is by walking along the train-track to Aguascalientes. This is the best option for those who are short on time.

Where is Machu Picchu?

Although you’d think Machu Picchu is deep within the freezing Andean mountains, it’s actually located closer to the Amazon jungle basin.

As a result the climate here is warmer than that of Cusco and the Sacred Valley , meaning you won’t need to layer up so much.

Once in Peru you’ll first need to head to Cusco to reach Machu Picchu, which is roughly 66 km away. There are many daily flights from Lima that you can take, and those in nearby Arequipa, Puno or Nazca can easily take the bus.

Is Machu Picchu safe?

Machu Picchu is a pretty safe place. The site is heavily patrolled by both security and park rangers, and even the hike along the train-track is safe to walk alone.

Once at the site you’ll need to follow the guidelines which are there to help you stay safe. We have written some tips on Machu Picchu safety tips so please read them first.

One other (and very important) thing to keep in mind, is the altitude. Machu Picchu is located at an altitude of 2430m , which may be difficult for some when hiking up. It’s best to take frequent breaks and drink lots of water.

Even better is to spend time in Cusco before (3399m) which will help your body to adjust. You can read more in our in-depth guide about preparing for high altitude hikes .

Where to catch the train from Cusco to Machu Picchu

The train to Machu Picchu is a really popular way of getting there, where you’ll pass by lots of stunning mountainous scenery and villages along the way.

There are several stops along the Sacred Valley which you can board on, including Poroy, Urubamba and Ollantaytambo . The last stop on the train ride is the town of Aguascalientes, which is just a short hike away from the ruins of Machu Picchu.

How long does the train from Cusco to Machu Picchu take?

If starting from the first stop of Poroy (which is just a 30 minute ride from Cusco), then the train will take roughly 3 hours to reach Aguascalientes .

It’s definitely the quickest option of them all, and during the ride you can relax in the luxurious seats as you take in the natural scenery.

If you’re still unsure about going, then you can read more about whether Machu Picchu is worth visiting to see some of our justifications for embarking on this mammoth trek.

Got travel insurance for Machu Picchu?

Machu Picchu from Cusco

There are also some incredible hiking experiences to reach Machu Picchu, which is better for the adventurists out there. Below we’ll cover your main options.

How to Hike to Machu Picchu on the Inca Trail

The Inca Trail is the most famous of the three, and the actual route and experience itself is often said to be more memorable than the actual ruins of Machu Picchu itself.

Most routes take around 4 days to arrive, which is necessary given the high altitudes you’ll be hiking through (it’s not something you can rush).

We recommend this highly-rated Inca Trail Tour , where you’ll have all hiking equipment, food and hotel pick-up and drop-off included. The most impressive thing is the stunning scenery you’ll explore along the way, which ranges from snow-capped mountains to alpine lakes.

Here you’ll literally be walking the same path that the ancient Inca used to on their way through the mountains , which only adds to the surreal nature of it all. You’ll also visit many other ancient ruins on the route, including those of Sayacmarcs, Patallacta and Runkurakay.

How to Hike to Machu Picchu on the Salkantay Trek

Whilst the Inca trail is best for those who love remnants of past civilisations, the Salkantay Trek is by far the best option for those who want to get into the real wilderness on their way to Machu Picchu.

Starting from Cusco we’ll visit a number of well-known sites including those of Laguna Humanatay and also Salkantay Mountain.

During your hikes through the remote landscapes you’ll see lots of wildlife such as Taruca and Coatis roaming freely, and even otters in the rivers too. You’ll reach Machu Picchu early on the fifth day, where you can enjoy the site when it’s at its most peaceful.

This 5 Day Salkantay Tour is one of the best options out there, which includes all meals, hiking equipment, accommodation as well as a stay in a 3-star hotel during your final evening in Aguascalientes. The Salkantay Trek is definitely the hardest of the three , so you’ll want to make sure you’re in good shape before embarking on this route.

How to hike to Machu Picchu on the Inca Jungle Trek

Lastly we have perhaps the least known route of the three, however it is a great one for those looking to spend more time hiking through lush rainforest . This multi-day tour lasts three days, and is relatively relaxed.

Here we’ll depart from Cusco and begin exploring the Sacred Valley region, where we’ll get to raft down the Urubamba river.

There’s also a stop at an indigenous village in the mountains too, where you can visit fruit plantations and also try various chocolates and other local snacks.

Out of the three hikes this one is the least demanding , so would be best for those who are rushed or have difficulty hiking in altitude.

Machu Picchu from Cusco Travel Tips

Now we’ll share some of our best tips that we’ve picked up when hiking through Cusco and the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu.

• Spend 2 Days in Cusco Prior – Unfortunately altitude sickness can affect anyone regardless of their fitness level. However it’s been proven that 48 hours is sufficient for your body to adjust, and will make any hikes easier than if you jumped straight in on your first day.
• Buy Coca Leaves – This handy tool has been used for thousands of years by locals. Upon consumption (either chewing or drinking in a tea) they help your system to absorb oxygen more readily, which is usually more difficult in these higher altitudes. Another good option is taking Soroche Pills, which can be bought in any InkaFarma in town.
• Try to Book in Advance – Although Machu Picchu is always being snapped by travellers, it’s actually surprising how often certain times can be sold out. Be sure to book your own entrance ticket (in advance), or you may miss out. This is even more important for the Inca Trail, as there’s limited spaces allowed on the mountain on any one day.
• Head on the Shoulder Seasons – Nobody likes places that are overfilled with tourists, however certain times of the year (such as the summer) can be pretty intense. It’s best to hike Machu Picchu either in September, October, March or April which are more relaxed. Even better is that the weather will be perfect too during these months.
• Use High Quality Boots – Your feet will be your best friend here, and will make the difference between a jolly memorable hike or multiple days through hell. We recommend these solid hiking boots for men, and these solid hiking boots for women. Trust us when we say it will be one of the best investments you make when hiking through Peru and the rest of Latin America.

And that’s all for our guide on how to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco.

Machu Picchu is a truly incredible sight to visit, however the actual adventure in getting there is just as memorable .

In this article we’ve covered three different ways of getting there, with each offering something slightly different. We’ve also covered some top hiking tips that will help to enhance your own experience when here.

Be sure to read our article on Hiking Machu Picchu for more advice.

👉🏽 P.S. If you’ve found this guide helpful, buy us a coffee here to say thanks! Or, support us by downloading our South America Travel Bible to get our best content.

“ Dear traveler! Some links in this post contain affiliate links. Meaning, if you click through and make a purchase, book a hostel or sign up for a tour, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you . Your support means a lot and helps us to carry on traveling and maintaining the quality of this site for you.”

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Exploring the Realm of the Incas

Cusco and machu picchu extension.

From $4,795

Easy to Moderate

Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

Arrive: Lima, Peru

Depart: Cusco, Peru

• Visit Cusco, the Inca capital, and the majestic Sacred Valley of the Incas
• Explore breathtaking Machu Picchu, with an overnight near the ruins

Trip Extensions can be added on to Small Group Adventures or Private Journeys, to lengthen and customize your trip. Prices are per person and not guaranteed until services are confirmed. Contact us for availability, questions, or to book your adventure!

• Service of local English-speaking guide
• Accommodations in hotels
• Meals as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
• All ground transportation and baggage handling from arrival until departure
• All activities as indicated in Detailed Itinerary

Not Included

• Travel to and from the arrival and departure location as indicated in Detailed Itinerary. Internal Flights within Peru (to be booked on own).
• Additional hotel nights outside the extension's scheduled dates
• Optional gratuities to guide, drivers, or staff
• Optional travel insurance
• Other expenses of a personal nature (some alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc.)
• Any activities and services described as an upgrade or optional

Accommodations

Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.

Wyndham Costa Del Sol Lima Airport Hotel

Day 1 (1 night)

Very conveniently located at the Lima international airport, this hotel is just a two-minute walk across the street from the terminal, and you can wheel your bags (no need to take a taxi). Rooms are well appointed and comfortable.

Hotel Pakaritampu

Ollantaytambo, Peru

Days 2-3 (2 nights)

Alternate Accomodation: Hotel Rio Sagrado

Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

Aguas Calientes, Peru

Day 4 (1 night)

Alternate Accomodation: Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge

Casa Andina Premium Cusco

Cusco, Peru

Days 5-7 (3 nights)

Alternate Accomodation: Hotel Monasterio

Trip Leaders

Wilderness Travel Trip Leaders have a passion and a joy for creating an unforgettable journey. We are extremely proud of them and the incredible travel experiences they make possible. For more information, including client comments about them and which specific trips they will be leading, please click on their profiles below.

Americo Romainville

Peter Boehm

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Book your trip today

Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

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Trip Levels

With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult—see descriptions below for explanations of each number. A plus (+) sign means the trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of that level. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. The Detailed Itinerary, available by download or mail, gives further information. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests.

Level 1 – Easiest

Non-camping journeys, optional walks, little elevation gain or loss.

• Royal Rajasthan and Villages of India
• Small ship cruises

Level 2 – Easy to Moderate

Hotel nights and/or safari-style camping, hikes of two to four hours on some days. Other physical activities are sometimes included, such as optional sea kayaking.

• Our African safaris
• Costa Rica Wildlife

Level 3 – Moderate

Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.

• Tuscany & the Cinque Terre
• Argentina: Hikes and Estancias of Patagonia
• Palau Snorkeling & Sea Kayaking
• Some trips with minimal hiking but rugged travel conditions or long drives, such as  Tribal Ghana, Togo & Benin,  are Trip Level 3.

Level 4 – Moderate to Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-6 hours), mountainous terrain, significant elevation gains and losses (hiking up or down as much as 3,000 feet) on many days. Altitudes no greater than about 10,000 feet.

• Ultimate Patagonia
• Hiking the Spanish Pyrenees

Level 5 – Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category.

• Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
• Everest Lodge to Lodge

Level 6 – Very Strenuous

Full-day hikes (5-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Most hikes take place at altitudes above 10,000 feet, with some days ascending as high as 18,000 feet.

• Everest Base Camp
• Climb Kilimanjaro!

The Best Luxury Hotels Near Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is one of those tourist destinations, nay, wonders of the world, that actually lives up to — and maybe even exceeds — expectations. It’s not just the sweeping views and mysterious architectural style that make it one of the best historical sites to visit. The incredible Inca citadel has been meticulously preserved since it was re-discovered in 1911, and the current crowd management on the ground also means you won’t find yourself in an Instagram versus reality situation while trying to take in the views and snap your photos. In fact, visiting Machu Picchu is an incredibly serene and spiritual experience all around.

That’s why you’ll want to look into booking an equally serene hotel when planning your trip to Machu Picchu. Of course, you won’t be able to camp out directly on the historical site, but there are plenty of properties that make it easy to commute to the Inca citadel while also ensuring a well-spent few nights of rest and relaxation.

Keeping in mind that Peru is also home to other national points of pride outside of natural attractions and man-made architectural splendor — you’d be remiss not to indulge in a Pisco Sour and ceviche — we’ve put together some of the best luxury hotels in the vicinity that’ll ensure you make the most of your adventure. The following options have relaxation-focused amenities to help soothe your tired body after exploring Machu Picchu, as well as incredible cocktail and food programs designed for ravelers to experience the very best of Peru. Here’s where you’ll want to drop your bags while making the trek to Machu Picchu.

Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Cusco

The first thing you’ll want to take into account when planning a trip to Machu Picchu is that the altitude difference is no joke. I don’t care if you’ve spent your childhood snowboarding in Colorado or you live in Santa Fe — the altitude in Cusco and neighboring regions seriously affects about 50% of travelers, so you’ll want to account for it before you start exerting yourself trekking up Machu Picchu.

Consider checking into Palacio del Inka in Cusco and taking a few days to allow your body to get used to the altitude change. The city of Cusco is more than 11,000 feet above sea level (that’s nearly double the altitude of Santa Fe), and Palacio del Inka makes it as comfortable as possible while you’re getting your sea legs.

You likely won’t be able to put back too many cocktails on your first night in town, which makes it the ideal moment to attend a laidback Pisco Sour-making class at Bar Rumi, the on-site cocktail bar. The live demonstration takes you through exactly what goes into the Pisco Sour and ends with a small sample (the perfect size to slowly sip and savor).

Unlike a lot of the more remote hotels and resorts on the list, this property is in the middle of Cusco, which also makes it a great option for those looking to experience local nightlife and culture. The city is incredibly safe (even at night), and the hotel is perfectly positioned to allow you to explore the abundance of bars and markets by foot. Be sure to stop by the San Pedro Central Market for great prices on local Peruvian coffee beans and other treats. Bring cash because not all vendors will accept credit card.

Here’s an Authentic Peruvian Ceviche Recipe You Can Whip Up Stateside

Tambo del inka, a luxury collection resort & spa, valle sagrado.

Looking for more of a nature-focused retreat than a city hotel? Head to Tambo del Inka in the heart of the Sacred Valley (Valle Sagrado) of the Incas. The stunning property is set along the Urubamba River and offers a much-needed tranquil retreat away from the bustle of Machu Picchu and Cusco.

You’ll find everything you could possibly need within the grounds of the Tambo del Inka, from the on-site beer garden to the optional al fresco cooking and gardening classes. But the absolute best amenity is the private train station that takes passengers straight to the base of Machu Picchu. Tambo del Inka is the only hotel in Urubamba that offers such a service, and it’s well worth considering booking this property if you want to simplify your trip as much as possible. 

Guests of the hotel walk for less than five minutes from the hotel lobby to the private train station where the 1920s-era train awaits. The luxury commuter train is operated by PeruRail and takes about three hours from the hotel to the base of Machu Picchu, but the ever-changing Peruvian scenery and complimentary onboard dining will keep you entertained. 

Back at the hotel, you’ll find stunning dining and drinking options, and we recommend booking a farm-to-table dining experience guided by onsite farmers and chefs. You’ll have the chance to help harvest the vegetables and herbs used in your meal and watch as the chefs prepare multiple courses (paired with local wine) over an open fire pit right next to your private dining table.

Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo

The Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo could very easily venture into tacky territory if we’re being honest. It’s an 85-room historical recreation designed to transport guests back to what would be considered a traditional Inca village. The boutique property is nestled into a stunning series of gardens and waterfalls at the base of Machu Picchu with unobstructed views of the gardens of the Vilcanota River. The property has been outfitted with artisanal decor and local fine art for guests to peruse while staying at the hotel.

The property is very conveniently located — it’s a short walk into the town of Aguas Calientes where guests can catch the bus straight up to Machu Picchu. It also gives you more time to explore the base of the Inca citadel before rushing back to your hotel room. Mind you, most of Aguas Calientes caters to tourists, and the shopping and dining will be more expensive (and possibly not as good) than it would be if you were staying a bit further away.

Thankfully, the food and beverage program at Inkaterra is truly something to write home about. Be sure to try a Pisco Sour while you’re staying, and don’t skip the breakfast, which is included in the casita-level rooms. The hotel restaurant uses fresh, local ingredients and will easily cater to those with food allergies and vegetarian and vegan diets.

Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel

Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel straddles the line between physical luxury and the luxury of convenience. Like the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo, it’s located right at the base of Machu Picchu, which makes it incredibly easy to hop on a bus and head up to the Inca citadel (the only way to get to Machu Picchu, unless you plan on hiking).

The boutique hotel offers 62 high-end rooms (most of which come with a balcony) and incredible views of the Urubamba River that snakes around the property. It’s just outside of the bustling Aguas Calientes, but you’d never know it based on the serene ambiance of the bubbling waters and surrounding flora.

You’ll want to spend some time dining and relaxing at the Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel before checking out. The gastronomy program includes traditional Peruvian cuisine, and the culinary team works closely with communities located in the Andes to ensure not just the highest level of ingredients, but that the hotel does its part to give back to local and remote communities within the region.

Sanctuary Lodge, A Belmond Hotel, Machu Picchu

The Sanctuary Lodge might be your best bet if you’re hoping to savor the sites of Machu Picchu and Peru’s Sacred Valley mainly from the comfort of your hotel room — or if you have aging parents in tow who prefer a slower pace of travel over having to huff and puff in order to see the sites. Although it’s relatively low-impact to take the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (there’s no hiking or climbing involved unless you want to go higher up), the Sanctuary Lodge does one step better. Because of its unique location above the Sacred Valley, you can actually view parts of Machu Picchu directly from the hotel grounds. We recommend booking an outdoor massage, which gives you access to a nearly unobstructed view of the historical site while you’re getting your spa treatment. Is there anything more luxurious than that?

If you’re looking to experience more traditional Inca culture, we recommend booking a coca leaf reading. Coca leaf readings are one of the highest respected forms of Peruvian divination, and the hotel offers guests a chance to book a personalized ceremony with an authentic Andean priest to catch a glimpse of what their future might hold.

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Machu Picchu by Bus - Cusco to Hidroelectrica Bus

Hidroelectrica, cusco

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Transportation

Road project to improve access to peru's machu picchu site.

Machu Picchu is the most popular tourist destination in South America receiving 955,741 million visitors in 2023, according to Peru’s Foreign Trade and Tourism Ministry. Photo by C.J. Schexnayder/ENR

Related Links: U.S. Temporary Spans Spread Throughout Peru – Nov. 20, 2013 Peru Ponders Machu Picchu Access Road – Oct. 27, 2010 Peru Proposes Elevator to Increase Access to Machu Picchu Site - March 19, 2009 ASCE Delegation Honors Machu Picchu For Engineering Excellence of Incas – Aug. 7, 2008

Reaching the Incan citadel of Machu Picchu is historically famous for its difficulty. The site’s remote location was a factor in the Spanish conquistadors overlooking it as they swept Peru for its riches. Archaeologist and politician Hiram Bingham had been seeking another “lost” Incan city when he happened across it in 1911.

Today, Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest tourist draws on the South American continent. According to Peru’s Foreign Trade and Tourism Ministry, 955,741 visitors flocked to the historic site last year with almost 70% coming from outside the country. The vast majority of visitors arrive by train due to the lack of any paved roadway to its immediate vicinity.

Soon though, that problem will be remedied; a paved roadway leading the way to the doorstep of the historic ruin is now under construction.

The project—the Santa María-Santa Teresa-Machu Picchu Hydroelectric Bridge highway—involves asphalt-paving 22 miles of roadway running along the Urubamba River. The road originates in the town of Santa María—located on a national highway—and then passes through the town of Santa Theresa before ending at a hydroelectric plant near Machu Picchu.

“This work is very important for the integration and economic development of Cusco,” said Peru’s transport minister, Raúl Pérez Reyes Espejo, on a visit to the site in January. “This is part of a joint effort by the executive branch, through the [Ministry of Transportation and Communications, (MTC)], the regional government and local governments to build infrastructure in this very important region of Peru.”

The hydropower plant on the Urubamba Rivers to the southwest of Machu Picchu will be the terminus of the paved road. The railroad line coming from the other direction also ends at the location. Photo by C.J. Schexnayder/ENR

Run Through the Jungle

Map by Scott Hilling/ENR *Click on the map for greater detail

The project, one of the largest ever undertaken in the Department of Cusco, is being run by Provías Nacional, a branch of Peru’s Transportation Ministry. It is part of a wider initiative to improve transportation infrastructure across Peru’s rural highland areas.

The road will consist of two 11-ft-wide asphalt-paved lanes with shoulders and drainage. Six major bridges are being constructed at key crossings where they will replace decades-old Bailey-style pre-fabricated truss bridges . The uneven mountain terrain requires extensive retaining walls and gabions.

The route will eliminate the number of switchbacks and deviations the unpaved route followed. A separate project involves constructing a mile-long tunnel for the road using drill-and-blast. The tunnel will have two lanes and a center for its control and operation.

Officials say the route will be opened in 2025. When completed, a torturous journey of four to five hours should be reduced to just two.

The paving portion of the project was awarded to China Civil Engineering Construction Corp. Sucursal del Perú (CCECC) for $90 million in 2021. The construction of the tunnels and related work was awarded to the Carretera Cusco Consortium, made up of the China Railway Tunnel Group Co. Ltda. Sucursal del Perú and the Grupo Constructor & Consultor Asociados SAC, working under a $45-million contract.

The road was originally scheduled for completion in late 2023 but was delayed in 2022 when an audit revealed the contractors submitted improper documentation for certification. The MTC suspended the contract, but the contractor subsequently filed an appeal to prevent it being nullified. Both sides later agreed to resolve the issue through arbitration and work was resumed.

Other delays have beset the project as well. Heavy rains in January 2022 caused severe flooding that forced the evacuation of hundreds of tourists. Unusually dry conditions in April caused construction delays due to heavy airborne dust.

*Click on the red "+" to see the slideshow

Hall of the Mountain King

Machu Picchu is the linchpin of Peru’s tourism sector, which is still recovering from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As of Jan. 1, the maximum number of tourists allowed to enter the sanctuary each day was increased to 4,500, with as many as 5,600 on specific dates such as holidays. Before the pandemic, a maximum of 5,800 visitors were permitted to visit the site each day—more than double the amount permitted a decade prior.

There is daily train service between Cusco and the town of Aguas Calientes, located on the Urubamba River about 5 miles northeast of Machu Picchu. Buses take tourists from the town to the sanctuary.

The citadel is also accessible by foot via routes such as the popular multiday “Inca Trail” hikes. With only 500 people permitted on the trail daily, including guides and porters, just a couple hundred trekkers enter Machu Picchu itself. Most of these visitors then lodge in Aguas Calientes afterward.

For years, intrepid visitors with an eye on their budget have taken the alternate route via the hydroelectric dam located southwest of the citadel and about six miles beyond Aguas Calientes on the rail line. These travelers could use road transport to reach the plant and then travel by train or by foot to Aguas Calientes.

When the road is completed next year, it will simplify access to Machu Picchu and improve transportation for residents of the area. Photo courtesy MTC

A road connecting Aguas Calientes to Santa Theresa was proposed in 2010 following a major flash flooding event on the Urubamba River that washed out portions of the train track. Thousands of tourist had to be evacuated by helicopter following the event. At the time, major concerns about Machu Picchu becoming inundated by tourists with the improved access.

The upgraded road will not create that direct connection as there is only a railroad bridge crossing the river at the hydroelectric plant limiting the access of vehicles. The upgraded route is intended to “improve the flow” of tourists to the tourist destination, officials said.

The inconvenience of the trip meant only a handful of tourists would use it each day, limiting the ability of the communities along the route to take advantage of Machu Picchu’s international popularity.

The tourism boost is only one aim of the project, officials say. An estimated 19,000 people live in the towns and districts adjacent to the road. The improvements will provide the local communities more direct access to markets as well as improved transportation between localities.

Since the resumption of work last summer, several government officials have since visited the project to emphasize their commitment to seeing it finished.

“Without a doubt, this work is going to completely change the way the surrounding population travels and their quality of life,” said Peru’s Comptroller General Nelson Shack in 2022 as the government sought to resume work.

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C.J. Schexnayder is the Editor of ENR California and ENR Northwest. He has contributed to ENR's coverage of the construction industry for more than a decade. His work has focused on major projects, industry trends and emerging technology. He previously was the South America correspondent for the magazine based in Lima, Peru. During that time, he covered numerous large-scale infrastructure projects across the region including the Third Lane Expansion of the Panama Canal. In addition, CJ has been an award-winning newspaper reporter in Southern California, Texas and Louisiana.

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