Discover Cusco and Machu Picchu: A 3-Day Adventure
Explore the magic of Cusco and the breathtaking beauty of Machu Picchu in this 3-day tour.
Perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in Inca history, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable experiences. Let’s walk through the details of your journey!
Day 1: Arrival in Cusco - Welcome to the Inca Capital
Then upon your arrival at Cusco Airport, our Machupicchu Latin America representative will greet you and provide private transportation to your hotel.
During the short drive, we’ll give you a quick overview of the itinerary and answer any last-minute questions about your upcoming adventure.
- Tip: Use the afternoon to rest and acclimate to the altitude, as Cusco sits at 3,400 meters (11,152 feet) above sea level.
- Optional: Explore the city with a Cusco city tour (extra cost), where you can visit famous landmarks such as the Plaza de Armas, Qorikancha, and the San Pedro Market.
Overnight: Cusco
Welcome to Cusco, the starting point of your unforgettable journey to Machu Picchu.
Day 2: Machu Picchu Guided Tour - Cusco
On the other hand after an early breakfast at your hotel, our Machupicchu Latin America guide will pick you up between 4:00 am and 5:00 am, depending on the train class you select.
From there, we’ll drive through the scenic Sacred Valley to the Ollantaytambo train station.
Board the scenic train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, passing through the Sacred Valley
- Train Journey to Aguas Calientes: Enjoy a scenic train ride through the Sacred Valley, following the path of the Vilcanota River.
- As you journey closer to Machu Picchu, the landscapes shift dramatically from mountains to lush cloud forests, offering stunning photo opportunities.
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Vilcanota River and the Andean landscape on your way to Machu Picchu
Besides upon arrival at Aguas Calientes, our representative will guide you to the bus station for a 30-minute ride up to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
Here begins your exploration of one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
- Guided Tour of Machu PicchuOur professional guide will take you on a journey through this iconic Inca citadel, revealing its history, architecture, and the mysteries that still surround Machu Picchu.
- You’ll visit important landmarks such as the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana stone, and the remarkable agricultural terraces.
- Fun Fact: Machu Picchu
Was built in the mid-15th century, but remained unknown to the outside world until its rediscovery by Hiram Bingham in 1911.
Step into the magic of Machu Picchu and explore one of the New Seven Wonders of the World
After your tour, we’ll head back to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included), where you'll have free time to shop for souvenirs or explore the town’s local attractions.
In the afternoon, board the return train to Ollantaytambo, where our transport will take you back to Cusco, arriving at approximately 6:30 pm.
Overnight: Cusco
Day 3: Departure from Cusco
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before we transfer you to the Cusco Airport based on your flight itinerary. Take with you the unforgettable memories of your journey through the heart of the Inca Empire.
Return to Cusco with unforgettable memories of your day exploring Machu Picchu.
Why This Tour is Special:
- Cultural immersion: Experience the rich history of Cusco and the mystery of Machu Picchu in just three days.
- Convenient itinerary: From airport pick-up to hotel transfers and guided tours, every detail is planned to make your experience seamless.
- Stunning scenery: Enjoy breathtaking landscapes during your train ride to Machu Picchu and throughout your journey in the Sacred Valley.
This 3-day tour is perfect for those seeking a quick but enriching journey through Peru’s ancient wonders, with the perfect balance of adventure, culture, and history.
Itinerary
This 3-day journey provides an in-depth exploration of Cusco and Machu Picchu, offering the perfect mix of adventure, history, and breathtaking landscapes. Let’s break down the details of your trip.
Day 1: Arrival in Cusco - Gateway to the Inca Empire
- Arrival: Upon landing at Cusco Airport, you’ll be greeted by a representative and transferred to your hotel.
- Briefing during transfer: We’ll provide a quick overview of your upcoming tour and answer any questions you have.
- Optional Cusco city tour (extra cost): If you have time, explore local highlights like Qorikancha and the Plaza de Armas.
Why it’s important?
This first day allows you to settle in and adjust to the altitude. If you opt for the city tour, it’s a great way to immerse yourself in the rich cultural history of Cusco.
Day 2: Machu Picchu Guided Tour - Cusco
- Hotel pick-up: Between 4:00 am and 5:00 am, depending on the train class selected.
- Drive to Ollantaytambo: You’ll enjoy a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley on the way to the train station.
- Train to Aguas Calientes: Board the train and marvel at the views of the Vilcanota River and surrounding mountains as you approach Machu Picchu.
Guided Tour of Machu Picchu:
- Bus ride: After arriving at Aguas Calientes, take a 30-minute ride to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
- Explore Machu Picchu: Our expert guide will walk you through the iconic ruins, explaining the history, architecture, and significance of this ancient wonder.
- Free time: After the tour, you’ll have free time in Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included) and shopping.
Return to Cusco:
- Train ride back to Ollantaytambo: After lunch, board the train back to Ollantaytambo.
- Transfer to Cusco: We’ll drive you back to your hotel, arriving around 6:30 pm.
Why it’s unforgettable?
Visiting Machu Picchu is a dream come true for many. The combination of the ancient ruins and the spectacular mountain setting makes it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Day 3: Departure from Cusco
- Hotel pick-up: We’ll take you to Cusco Airport in time for your flight, based on your itinerary.
Why it’s convenient?
With everything taken care of, you can enjoy a stress-free departure, leaving Cusco with memories of one of the world’s most incredible destinations through the Inca Empire.