Cusco is undoubtedly one of the most visited locations in South America, which is why we are delighted to offer you the most popular tourist attractions in the Imperial City of the Incas and the surrounding areas. You will be immersed in the culture and history of this outstanding region for 9 days while getting to know the most significant locations, such as the Sacred Valley, the Southern Valley, Maras, and Moray, as well as experiencing the Machu Picchu citadel on a private tour! Also, we have included two trekking activities that will surely be part of the highlights of your trip: The Humantay Lagoon and Rainbow Mountain.
TRIP ITINERARY
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day 1
Arrival in Cusco - Transfer to the Hotel
Upon your arrival in Cusco, a city located at 3,400 meters above sea level, it is normal to feel the air slightly thinner. For this reason, our team will be waiting for you and will take you to your hotel, where you will be able to try the traditional coca tea that helps with acclimation (not recommended for travelers with high blood pressure). Afterward, the staff will assist you with the check-in and provide a city map, highlighting the main attractions along with recommended restaurants, currency exchange offices, shops, and more. We suggest resting for a few hours so you can enjoy a free afternoon and evening in Cusco.
Optional Visit:
If you feel that your acclimation has gone well, you may enjoy attending the presentation of traditional Andean music and dance at the Qosqo Center of Native Art (from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.). We recommend arriving 45 minutes in advance. The entrance ticket is already included in the package (confirm this information with your travel consultant).
Overnight in Cusco.
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day 2
Archaeological City Tour in Cusco | Guided in English
Breakfast at the hotel.
From 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. (approximately) — You will take a guided walk through the Historic Center with our local guide. The meeting point will be Regocijo Square, located near Cusco’s Main Square (a courtesy service offered exclusively for our passengers).
From 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. (approximately) — The Archaeological City Tour will begin. The meeting point will be in front of the Santo Domingo Church, located near Qoricancha, known as the Temple of the Sun. This will be the first stop of the tour.
The tour will then continue to four additional archaeological sites: Sacsayhuaman Fortress, known for the Inti Raymi celebration; followed by Qenqo, Puka Pukara and Tambomachay, the famous Inca fountains. Before concluding the tour, there will be a special stop to interact with Peruvian llamas and alpacas. Your return to Cusco is scheduled for around 6:00 p.m.; upon arrival, our team can take you back to the hotel or drop you off at the main square.
Overnight in Cusco.
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day 3
South Valley Tour in Cusco - Guided in Spanish | Private Service
Breakfast at the hotel.
From 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (approximately) — Our transportation will pick you up from the hotel to begin the tour. Accompanied by our guide, we will travel for about 40 minutes southwest until reaching Tipón, known for its impressive agricultural terraces, advanced irrigation systems, and Inca architecture—key elements of the Qhapaq Ñan network. We will then continue to Pikillacta, considered one of the best-preserved pre-Inca cities in Peru.
We will end the tour in the town of Andahuaylillas, where we will visit its church, internationally known as the “Sistine Chapel of the Americas” due to the richness of its mural paintings, decorated ceilings, and sacred artworks that cover nearly all its interior walls—an artistic ensemble comparable to the Sistine Chapel in Rome. After the visit, we will return to your hotel. You will have the afternoon and evening free to continue enjoying the city of Cusco.
Overnight in Cusco.
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day 4
Maras, Moray and the Salt Mines Tour with Box Lunch
Breakfast at the hotel.
From 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. (approximately) — You will begin the tour toward the northeast of Cusco; during the drive, you will be able to enjoy impressive landscapes. A box lunch with a light snack will be provided during this section of the trip. The first stop will be at a textile center, where you will observe the production process of different types of wool, such as llama, alpaca and other animals. After this experience, the tour will continue to the archaeological site of Moray.
In Moray, the Incas experimented with various agricultural techniques and adapted crops to different microclimates. Its circular terraces—reaching approximately 150 meters of depth between the highest and lowest levels—demonstrate the remarkable agricultural knowledge of the era.
You will then head to the town of Maras to learn about its colonial architecture, before concluding the visit at the Maras Salt Mines, where the local population still extracts salt in the same traditional way used by the Incas. The area features around 3,000 salt pools and has become a unique tourist attraction. The return will be to the city of Cusco, marking the end of the tour.
Overnight in Cusco.
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day 5
Humantay Lake Hike | Group Service
From 4:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (approximately) — Your day will begin very early with the transport that will take you to the town of Soraypampa. The journey lasts about three hours and passes through the localities of Izcuchaca, Ancahuasi, Limatambo and Mollepata. There will be a brief stop in Mollepata to enjoy breakfast and purchase supplies for the hike, such as water and energy-boosting snacks (granola bars, peanuts or chocolate are recommended). The trip will then continue toward Soraypampa. Upon arrival, the guide will provide instructions for the hike and explain the option of renting horses (not included in the package) for travelers who prefer not to complete the ascent on foot to the top of the mountain. The highlight of the route is Humantay Lake, located at an altitude of 4,200 meters. There, you will have time to catch your breath, rest and take memorable photographs from a privileged viewpoint.
After this experience, you will begin the descent to the transport, with another stop in Mollepata, this time for lunch. Once the meal concludes, you will return to Cusco for a well-deserved rest.
Note:
At the beginning of the tour, we provide a bottle of water, a trekking pole and a small blanket to help protect you from the cold during the bus ride.
Optional:
South Valley Tour (private service). For travelers who cannot complete the hike, it is recommended to contact their travel agent.
Overnight in Cusco.
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day 6
Sacred Valley of the Incas – Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes | Guided in English
Breakfast at the hotel.
From 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (approximately) — The much-anticipated day to explore the Sacred Valley before visiting Machu Picchu has arrived. In the morning, you will depart for the famous Sacred Valley of the Incas. Your first stop will be the Taray viewpoint, where you will enjoy a sweeping view of the valley. The tour will then continue to the Archaeological Site of Pisac, accompanied by your guide. You will also visit a craft jewelry workshop in Pisac to learn about the symbolism and Andean mysticism present in each handmade piece. The journey will proceed toward Urubamba, where you will have a break for lunch. Afterward, you will continue to Ollantaytambo, one of the finest examples of Inca urban planning.
At the end of the tour, you will board the train at Ollantaytambo Station toward Aguas Calientes on a trip of approximately two hours. Upon arrival, our team will be waiting in the main square of Aguas Calientes with a sign displaying your name in order to accompany you to the hotel. Aguas Calientes is a charming town located at an altitude of approximately 2,040 meters.
Overnight in Aguas Calientes.
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day 7
Private Machu Picchu Tour - Cusco
At last, the most anticipated day has arrived!
During this day, you will visit one of the Seven Wonders of the World: the impressive Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu. Our team will be available early in the morning to assist you with the transfer from the hotel to the bus boarding area (the exact time will depend on your entrance ticket). Throughout the visit, your professional guide will share the secrets, history, and mysteries of the site during a guided tour lasting approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours. After the guided visit, you will have free time to explore the site at your own pace. At the end, the guide will indicate the exact time for your return to the town of Aguas Calientes, where you will board the train back to either Poroy or Wanchaq Station, both located near the city of Cusco. Our team will be waiting upon your arrival to assist you with the transfer back to your hotel.
If you wish to make your experience even more special, please review our exclusive optional services below:
Optional Services:
◆ Lunch at the Sanctuary Lodge Hotel — Located near the entrance to the Inca citadel.
◆ Return trip on the “Vistadome” train — A panoramic travel experience with large windows offering exceptional views of the Sacred Valley.
◆ Return trip on the Premium “Vistadome Observatory” or Inca Rail 360° train — Featuring an observation carriage and live cultural presentations on board.
◆ Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain — An impressive hike offering privileged views of the entire Machu Picchu complex.
Overnight in Cusco.
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day 8
Rainbow Mountain Trek with Buffet Lunch Included
The day of adventure has arrived!
From 4:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (approximately) — Your day will begin very early, before breakfast, which will be served upon arrival in the town of Cusipata. You will then continue through small Andean villages until reaching the starting point of the route in Chillihuani, located at an altitude of 4,200 meters. From this point, you will begin the hike toward the famous Rainbow Mountain, enjoying views of mountains, valleys, alpacas, llamas and local communities. If you prefer not to complete the hike to the summit, the guide will ask whether you wish to rent a horse (option not included in the package). Upon completing the ascent, you will reach the highest point: Rainbow Mountain, located at 5,200 meters above sea level. There, you will have free time to appreciate the panoramic view and take photographs of this unique landscape.
Afterwards, you will begin the descent —which is faster— toward the town of Cusipata, where you will enjoy an included buffet lunch. Following this revitalizing break, you will return to the city of Cusco for a well-deserved rest. If preferred, there is also the option to complete the tour by quad bike in private service (consult this alternative with your travel advisor).
Note:
At the beginning of the tour, we provide a bottle of water, a trekking pole and a small blanket to help protect you from the cold during the bus ride.
Physical Condition:
It is essential to be in good physical condition to complete this tour. The route lasts approximately two hours and takes place between 4,200 and more than 5,200 meters above sea level. It is recommended not to take this excursion during your first days in Cusco, allowing your body to gradually adapt to the altitude and mountain air.
Overnight in Cusco.
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day 9
Hotel Transfer to Cusco Airport
At the scheduled time, the transfer will take you from the hotel to the airport for check-in for your return flight. Please be ready at least two hours before your boarding time to ensure a punctual transfer. Thank you for traveling with us! We hope to welcome you again soon so you can enjoy new unforgettable experiences with the Viagens Machu Picchu packages.
Important Tip:
If your flight from Cusco to Lima departs in the afternoon, you may use the morning to visit the city’s museums, such as the Museum of Contemporary Art and others. Do not worry about entrance fees; they are all included with your Full Tourist Ticket. In addition, if you wish to make the most of your time, you can book private half-day tours, ideal for discovering more of Cusco in a personalized and comfortable way.
Important Note:
For hotels in Cusco and Aguas Calientes, check-in is at 1 p.m. and check-out is at 10 a.m.
If you are interested in arranging:
♦ Early check-in (early hotel entry).
♦ Late check-out (departure after standard hours).
These options are subject to hotel availability and may involve an additional cost. For confirmation and further information, please consult your travel advisor.
INCLUDED
Hotels with breakfast
• 07 hotel nights in Cusco.
• 01 hotel night in Águas Calientes.
Tours
• South Valley of Cusco Tour - Private service.
• Guided in Machu Picchu - Private service.
• City tour in Cusco - Courtesy of Viagens Machu Picchu.
• Archaeological city tour in Cusco + bottle of water - Maximum group of 17 people.
• Tour Sacred Valley of the Incas with buffet lunch + bottle of water - Maximum group of 17 people.
• Entrance to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
• Bus from Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu.
• Bus from Machu Picchu - Aguas Calientes.
• Tickets for all Archaeological complexes to visit.
• Laguna Humantay trail with lunch + bottle of water - Maximum group of 17 people.
• Ollantaytambo one-way train - Aguas Calientes, Tourist class.
• Machu Picchu return train - Ollantaytambo or Cusco, Tourist class.
• Maras Moray Tour with Salineiras with box lunch - Maximum group of 17 people.
• Colorful Mountain Trail with food + tickets + bottle of water - Maximum group of 17 people
Private transfers
• Transfer from Cusco station to the hotel.
• Transfer from the hotel to Cusco airport.
• Transfer from the airport to the hotel in Cusco.
Benefits of Viagens Machu Picchu
• 24-hour assistance in Spanish and English.
• Professional team on all tours and walks.
• Guidance in Spanish and English; inform in advance.
• Personalized concierge, and assistance to the needs of your stay.
What is not included?
• Travel insurance.
• National or international air tickets.
• Food and drinks not mentioned above.
• Extra expenses: own, laundry, phone calls, and details included in the itinerary.
Prices
| Hotels |
Categories |
Validity |
|
Cusco:
-San Francisco Plaza, Casona Plaza Cusco, Sacha Hotel Centric,
or Similar Room Standard 7 night(s)
- With Buffet Breakfast
Aguas Calientes:
-Flower House, Retama Machu Picchu, Ferre Machu Picchu,
or Similar Room Standard 1 night(s)
- With Buffet Breakfast
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|
| AccommodationPackage value per person. |
| of 01/01/2025 to 31/12/2025 |
|
Single
$
1,623 USD
|
Double
$
1,179 USD
|
Triple
$
1,108 USD
|
|
|
Cusco:
-Terra Andina, Hacienda Centro Historico, Xima Cusco Hotel ,
or Similar Room Standard 7 night(s)
- With Buffet Breakfast
Aguas Calientes:
-Taypikala Machu Picchu, Golden Sunrise,
or Similar Room Standard 1 night(s)
- With Buffet Breakfast
|
|
| AccommodationPackage value per person. |
| of 01/01/2025 to 31/12/2025 |
|
Single
$
1,889 USD
|
Double
$
1,284 USD
|
Triple
$
1,197 USD
|
|
|
Cusco:
-Hilton Garden Inn, Sonesta Cusco, Costa del Sol Ramada,
or Similar Room Standard 7 night(s)
- With Buffet Breakfast
Aguas Calientes:
-El Mapi By Inkaterra, Hatun Inti Boutique,
or Similar Room Standard 1 night(s)
- With Buffet Breakfast and Dinner
|
|
| AccommodationPackage value per person. |
| of 01/01/2025 to 31/12/2025 |
|
Single
$
2,309 USD
|
Double
$
1,507 USD
|
Triple
$
1,416 USD
|
|
|
Cusco:
-Casa Andina Premium, Palacio del Inca, Belmond Monasterio, JW Marriott Cusco,
or Similar Room Standard 7 night(s)
- Buffet Breakfast
Aguas Calientes:
-Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo, Sumaq Machu Picchu, Belmond Sanctuary Lodge,
or Similar Room Standard 1 night(s)
- Buffet Breakfast
|
|
| AccommodationPackage value per person. |
| of 01/01/2025 to 31/12/2025 |
|
Request a quote
$
0 USD
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Optional Tours
Buffet Lunch at Sanctuary Lodge Restaurant:
Located within the luxurious Sanctuary Lodge hotel (formerly Orient Express), it is the only hotel facing Machu Picchu.
• From USD 50.00 per person.
Return Train Vistadome Observatory Service:
Experience a journey of luxury and culture on the first-class train, with live entertainment of shows and traditional dances in the observatory car, ensuring a unique and thrilling experience.
• From USD 70.00 per person.
Entrance to Machu Picchu or Huayna Picchu Mountain:
A short trail from the Inca citadel to the Wayna Picchu lookout, a strategic and unique place offering the most complete view of the Machu Picchu Citadel.
• From USD 65.00 per person.
Apukunaq Tianan Quad Bike:
These sculptures, also known as "The Abode of the Gods," are a monument aiming to represent Inca deities and Andean beliefs, offering a glimpse into the culture of this region.
• From USD 150.00 per person.
Professional Photographer:
Throughout all tours, our professional photographer will capture the most beautiful and unforgettable moments.
Price on Request.
Private Tours and Excursions:
Ideal for those who desire a more personalized service where tour schedules can be adjusted, meaning there is more flexibility and tours and excursions can be tailored according to the client's preference.
General information
IMPORTANT!
Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu between January and May—especially Circuit 2, the most complete and highly requested option—are already sold out on many dates. For new reservations with departures during this period, if Circuit 2 is not available on your travel date, we will secure the best available alternative.
Our first option will be Circuit 3, which explores the citadel’s lower urban area and offers a longer, more immersive experience. If this circuit is also unavailable, we will arrange Circuit 1, located in the upper section and renowned for its panoramic views and classic postcard-style photos. All options are subject to availability at the time of purchase, and we will do everything possible to ensure you enjoy the best possible experience during your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Traditional Machu Picchu Package
1. What happens if the tour is canceled due to weather conditions?
- Cancellations due to poor weather conditions are non-refundable, as these are factors beyond our control.
2. Is the Machu Picchu ticket refundable if my trip is canceled?
- No, according to the latest updates from the Ministry of Culture, Machu Picchu tickets are final sales. They cannot be rescheduled, or transferred to another date or person, nor are they refundable.
3. Where can I leave my larger luggage during the trip to Machu Picchu?
- It is recommended to bring only a small backpack to Machu Picchu, as the train operator limits baggage to 5 kg per person. Larger luggage can be safely stored in your hotel’s storage in Cusco.
4. Can I choose seats on the trains?
- No, PeruRail assigns seats automatically, with no option for seat selection.
5. Which train is better for Machu Picchu: Expedition or Vistadome?
- We recommend taking the Expedition train to Aguas Calientes and the Vistadome on the return. Vistadome provides panoramic windows and onboard entertainment, ideal for the daytime return journey.
6. Do the packages include train travel?
- Yes, all packages include round-trip train tickets, except for those who choose trekking routes to Machu Picchu, such as the Inca Trail, where only the return ticket is included.
7. Is Peru suitable for traveling with children?
- Yes! Peru is a family-friendly destination, though we recommend choosing lighter routes without long hikes.
8. Do I need a visa to enter Peru?
- A visa is not required for citizens of several Latin American countries, who may enter with a national ID. Other visitors, like those from Spain and Mexico, must present a passport valid for at least six months from their entry date.
9. Is the yellow fever vaccine mandatory?
- No, it is not mandatory, though it is an extra precaution for those visiting tropical areas.
10. Is it necessary to get travel insurance?
- Travel insurance is not mandatory but highly recommended, especially for tourists choosing packages or routes with hiking or adventure sports.
11. What is the voltage in Peru?
- The standard voltage is 220V, though some hotels provide 110V.
12. What is the best currency in Peru: dollars or soles?
- It is recommended to carry dollars and a few soles for local purchases—exchange money at a reliable currency exchange agency.
13. What is the weather like in Peru?
- The climate varies by season, with a rainy season from December to March and a dry season from April to November. In Cusco and Machu Picchu, temperatures range from 24°C to -2°C.
14. Can I change my travel dates?
- Yes, though an administrative fee of 10% to 50% of the total package cost will apply, depending on the proximity to the travel date.
15. What is the cancellation policy?
- Cancellation involves progressive penalties depending on the notice given before the trip, from 10% to 100% of the total package cost, with no penalty only if canceled 50 days or more in advance.
For more information on destinations in Peru, visit our Viagens Machu Picchu Blog.
Payment Methods
To confirm your booking, we will send you a link with 25% of the total amount; the remaining 75% must be paid 15 days before the trip. Payment can be in US Dollars, credit, or debit card. To pay the remaining value in installments, please consult your travel agent.
Our current payment methods are through PayPal and Visa.
Photo Gallery
Sacred Valley of the Incas
Machu Picchu Private Guided Tour
Pikillacta Archaeological Park