Discover Peru: A 7-Day Journey Through Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu
Explore Peru's cultural richness and breathtaking landscapes with this 7-day tour. From the vibrant city of Lima to the heart of the Inca Empire in Cusco, and finally to the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, this itinerary offers an unforgettable experience.
Welcome to Lima, your starting point for an unforgettable 7-day journey through Peru.
Day 1: Arrival in Lima - Welcome to Peru
Upon your arrival at Lima airport, our Machupicchu Latin America representative will pick you up and transfer you to your hotel in a private vehicle. As we travel to the hotel, we'll provide insights about Lima, including suggestions on places to visit during your free time.
- Tip: Use the remainder of the day to explore Lima's culinary scene or take a relaxing stroll through Miraflores.
Explore the vibrant and modern districts of San Isidro and Miraflores, featuring parks and ocean views
Overnight: Lima
Day 2: Lima City Tour - Explore the Capital's Historic and Modern Sides (B)
After breakfast, our guide will pick you up at either 9:00 am or 2:00 pm. The day's tour will cover both modern and colonial Lima, including:
- San Isidro and Miraflores: Explore the city's modern suburbs, including the San Isidro Golf Course, the Olive Grove Park, and the Love Park with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
- Huaca Pucllana: An ancient pre-Inca pyramid standing amidst modern city life.
- Colonial Lima: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site, including Plaza Mayor, the Presidential Palace, Cathedral, and San Francisco Monastery with its eerie catacombs.
You'll have the option to shop at the Indian Market, visit Larcomar Mall, or return to your hotel.
Overnight: Lima
Day 3: Fly to Cusco - Free Afternoon (B)
After breakfast, we'll transfer you to the Lima airport for your flight to Cusco. Upon arrival, our representative will greet you and take you to your hotel. During the short ride, we'll brief you on the itinerary and answer any questions you may have about your stay.
- Tip: Spend the afternoon at your leisure or explore Cusco's historic center, visiting sites like Plaza de Armas or San Blas.
Overnight: Cusco
Day 4: Sacred Valley Tour - Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Train to Aguas Calientes (B)
After breakfast, your guide will pick you up between 7:00 am and 7:30 am to begin your journey through the Sacred Valley. Highlights of the day include:
- Sacsayhuaman & Puca Pucara: Drive by these famous Inca ruins en route.
- Manos de la Comunidad Rescue Center: See llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas in a conservation project.
- Taray Lookout: Take in breathtaking panoramic views of the Sacred Valley.
- Pisac Ruins and Market: Explore the impressive Pisac Inca site and then visit its colorful traditional market.
- Lunch in Urubamba (not included): Enjoy a buffet lunch in the Sacred Valley.
- Ollantaytambo: Discover this incredible Inca citadel, with its remarkable rock formations and the story of the Inca god Wiracocha.
In the evening, we'll board the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. Enjoy the beautiful scenery as the train winds through the Vilcanota River valley.
Overnight: Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo)
Day 5: Machu Picchu Guided Tour - Return to Cusco (B)
Start your day early with breakfast at the hotel, and then your guide will meet you between 6:30 am and 7:00 am for the short bus ride up to Machu Picchu.
- Guided Tour: Explore the New Seven Wonder of the World with a knowledgeable guide who will walk you through its history, traditions, and architecture. Marvel at iconic structures such as the Temple of the Sun and the Intihuatana stone.
- Afterward, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included) and free time to shop or relax before boarding the afternoon train back to Ollantaytambo. Our private transport will meet you at the station and take you back to your Cusco hotel.
Overnight: Cusco
Day 6: Free Day in Cusco - Optional Tours (B)
After breakfast, you'll have a free day to explore Cusco on your own or take an optional tour.
- Optional tours: Consider visiting the Maras-Moray Salt Mines or taking a more in-depth Cusco City Tour to places like Sacsayhuaman and Qorikancha.
Overnight: Cusco
Day 7: Departure from Cusco (B)
After breakfast, we'll transfer you to Cusco Airport according to your flight schedule, bringing your Peruvian adventure to an end.
Why This Tour is Special:
- Comprehensive Experience: In just 7 days, you'll experience the highlights of Lima, Cusco, and Machu Picchu, with expert guidance and seamless transitions between destinations.
- Cultural Immersion: Learn about Peru's rich history and traditions, from the Huaca Pucllana in Lima to the legendary ruins of Machu Picchu.
- Flexible Options: Enjoy free time and optional tours to further personalize your experience.
This 7-day adventure through Peru offers the perfect balance of history, culture, and stunning scenery, making it an ideal itinerary for anyone looking to explore the heart of the Inca Empire and beyond.
Itinerary
Complete 7-Day Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu Tour Itinerary
This 7-day adventure gives you the best of Peru, combining the vibrant city life of Lima, the cultural richness of Cusco, the history of the Sacred Valley, and the mystical ruins of Machu Picchu. Here's the full breakdown:
Day 1: Arrival in Lima
- Arrival: You will be greeted at Lima Airport by our representative and transferred to your hotel.
- Briefing: We'll provide an overview of your itinerary and tips on what to do during your free time in Lima.
- Free afternoon: Explore the city on your own or relax.
Why it's important? This day offers a relaxing start to your journey, allowing you to rest after your flight and prepare for the exciting week ahead.
Day 2: Lima City Tour - Explore Modern and Colonial Lima
- Hotel pick-up: You can choose between a 9:00 am or 2:00 pm start for your tour.
- Modern Lima: Explore San Isidro and Miraflores, including the Love Park with its beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean.
- Huaca Pucllana: Visit the pre-Inca pyramid standing in the midst of Lima's modern suburbs.
- Colonial Lima: Discover the UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Plaza Mayor, the Presidential Palace, and the San Francisco Monastery with its famous catacombs.
Why it's special? This tour offers a perfect mix of modern and colonial Lima, giving you a comprehensive overview of the city's rich history and culture.
Day 3: Fly to Cusco - Free Afternoon in the Inca Capital
- Transfer to Lima Airport: We'll pick you up for your flight to Cusco.
- Arrival in Cusco: Once in Cusco, you'll be transferred to your hotel and briefed about the following days' activities.
- Free afternoon: Explore Cusco at your leisure or rest and adjust to the altitude.
Why it's important? Cusco sits at a high altitude, and this free afternoon allows you to acclimatize and enjoy the city at your own pace.
Day 4: Sacred Valley Tour - Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Train to Aguas Calientes
- Pick-up time: Between 7:00 am and 7:30 am.
- Stops at Pisac Inca site and Ollantaytambo: Explore the ruins and the traditional market, then visit the Ollantaytambo fortress.
- Lunch in Urubamba: Enjoy a buffet lunch surrounded by the Sacred Valley's beautiful landscapes.
- Train to Aguas Calientes: Board the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, admiring the views along the Vilcanota River.
Why it's special? This day gives you an immersive experience in the Sacred Valley, combining ancient ruins, local culture, and stunning Andean scenery.
Day 5: Machu Picchu Guided Tour - Return to Cusco
- Early start: Your guide will pick you up between 6:30 am and 7:00 am for the bus ride up to Machu Picchu.
- Guided tour: Spend the morning exploring the legendary Inca citadel with your expert guide.
- Return to Aguas Calientes: After the tour, enjoy lunch and free time before boarding the return train to Ollantaytambo.
- Transfer back to Cusco: We'll drive you back to your hotel, arriving by 6:30 pm.
Why it's unforgettable? Visiting Machu Picchu is the highlight of the trip. The blend of history, breathtaking views, and expert guidance ensures an unforgettable experience.
Day 6: Free Day in Cusco - Optional Tours Available
- Free day: Spend the day exploring Cusco on your own or choose from several optional tours.
- Optional tours: Consider a visit to the Maras-Moray Salt Mines or explore more of Cusco's archaeological sites such as Sacsayhuaman.
Why it's flexible? This free day allows you to relax or dive deeper into Cusco's rich cultural history con optional tours.
Day 7: Departure from Cusco
- Hotel pick-up: We'll transfer you to Cusco Airport for your departure flight.
Why it's convenient? Your journey ends smoothly, con all the logistics taken care of, leaving you free to reflect on your memorable adventure through Peru.