Treasures of Cusco and Machu Picchu

Uncover the Mysteries of the Incas: A 5-Day Journey Through Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco - Stepping into the Inca World

Upon landing at Cusco Airport, the adventure begins immediately. Our friendly Machupicchu Latin America representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in a private vehicle. As we make our way through the historical streets of Cusco, once the heart of the Inca Empire, you'll feel the ancient energy that still pulses through this vibrant city.

On the way, we'll go over your itinerary, answer any questions, and provide tips to make the most of your stay. Once you check into your hotel, the rest of the day is yours to explore or relax.

• Curious Fact: Cusco was designed in the shape of a puma, one of the sacred animals in Inca cosmology, representing power and strength.

For those with extra energy, an optional city tour (extra cost) will take you to some of Cusco's most iconic landmarks, such as the Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun) and the bustling San Pedro Market.

Overnight: Cusco

Day 2: Explore the Sacred Valley - From Pisac to Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes

After breakfast, your guide will meet you between 7:00 am and 7:30 am for an exciting journey through the Sacred Valley. As we leave Cusco, we'll pass by Sacsayhuaman and Puca Pucara, two impressive Inca ruins just outside the city.

Our first major stop is at Manos de la Comunidad, a rescue center where you'll meet friendly alpacas, llamas, and vicuñas. Next, we'll visit the Taray lookout for breathtaking panoramic views of the Sacred Valley—perfect for photos.

• Legend: The Sacred Valley was believed to be protected by Pachamama, the Earth Mother, who nurtured its fertile lands and people.

We'll then head to the Pisac Inca site, where you'll explore ancient temples and terraced fields, learning about the advanced agricultural methods of the Incas. Afterwards, enjoy some time at the Pisac market, where you can interact with locals and purchase traditional handicrafts.

After a buffet lunch in Urubamba (not included), we continue to Ollantaytambo, an extraordinary Inca fortress. Here, you'll hear about the Inca god Wiracocha and the importance of this site during the Spanish conquest.

In the late afternoon, we'll board the train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. During this scenic journey, you'll follow the Vilcanota River, passing through lush valleys and towering mountains.

Overnight: Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo)

Day 3: Machu Picchu - The Legendary Lost City of the Incas

Today is the highlight of your trip. After an early breakfast, your guide will meet you between 6:30 am and 7:00 am, and we'll head to the bus station for the 30-minute ride up to Machu Picchu. Here, you'll finally lay eyes on one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

• Myth: According to local legend, Machu Picchu was a sacred retreat for Incan rulers, hidden in the clouds to escape the prying eyes of enemies. Some even say the site emits a special energy, felt only by those who walk its grounds.

Your professional guide will take you on an immersive tour, sharing stories of the Inca Empire, and revealing the significance of key landmarks like the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana stone, and the Royal Tomb.

After the tour, you'll have free time to explore on your own or simply relax and absorb the mystical atmosphere. Later, we'll return to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included), before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo. From there, our private transport will bring you back to Cusco, arriving by 6:30 pm.

Overnight: Cusco

Day 4: Discover Cusco - City Tour of the Inca Capital

After breakfast, we'll embark on a detailed tour of Cusco at 9:30 am, starting at the Plaza de Armas, home to the magnificent Cathedral of Cusco, an architectural gem that blends Inca stonework with Spanish colonial grandeur. As we explore, you'll feel the echoes of centuries-old traditions.

From here, we'll walk to the Qorikancha, or Temple of the Sun, once the most important spiritual site in the Inca Empire. You'll see how the Incas built their temples with such precision that even modern architects marvel at their techniques. This is a prime example of the blend between Inca and Catholic cultures.

We'll then drive just outside the city to visit Sacsayhuaman, a monumental Inca site famous for its enormous stones, some weighing up to 200 tons. After this, we continue to Qenqo, a sacred space filled with fascinating Inca altars, followed by a stop at Puca Pucara, an ancient military checkpoint. Finally, we visit Tambomachay, known for its mysterious water fountains, believed to be ritual baths for Inca royalty.

• Curious Fact: The exact purpose of Tambomachay remains unknown, though many believe it had deep spiritual significance related to water and purification.

After a day full of exploration, we'll return you to your hotel.

Overnight: Cusco

Day 5: Departure from Cusco - Until We Meet Again

After breakfast, we'll transfer you to Cusco Airport, ensuring you arrive in time for your flight. As your journey through the Inca Empire comes to an end, you'll leave with memories of sacred ruins, vibrant landscapes, and the mystical energy of Machu Picchu.

Complete 5-Day Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu Tour Itinerary

This 5-day adventure immerses you in the heart of the Inca Empire, with explorations of Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and the world-famous Machu Picchu. Here's a breakdown of your journey:

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco - Gateway to the Inca Empire

Quick itinerary:

• Arrival in Cusco: Our Machupicchu Latin America representative will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel.
• Briefing: We'll go over your tour details and answer any questions you may have during your drive.
• Optional city tour: Visit iconic sites like the Qorikancha and Sacsayhuaman (extra cost).

Why it's important?
This day allows you to settle in, acclimatize to Cusco's altitude, and start to experience the rich history of the Inca capital.

Day 2: Sacred Valley Tour - Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Aguas Calientes

Quick itinerary:

• Hotel pick-up: Between 7:00 am and 7:30 am.
• Sacsayhuaman & Puca Pucara: Drive past these stunning Inca sites.
• Manos de la Comunidad Rescue Center: Meet llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas.
• Pisac Ruins and Market: Explore the ancient Inca site and shop for handicrafts at the Pisac market.
• Lunch in Urubamba (not included): Enjoy a buffet lunch in the heart of the Sacred Valley.
• Ollantaytambo Fortress: Discover the impressive stone terraces and ruins of this ancient Inca fortress.
• Train to Aguas Calientes: Journey by train along the Vilcanota River, arriving in the evening.

Why it's special?
This day takes you through the Sacred Valley, blending stunning landscapes, rich history, and local culture.

Day 3: Machu Picchu Guided Tour - Return to Cusco

Quick itinerary:

• Hotel pick-up: Between 6:30 am and 7:00 am.
• Bus to Machu Picchu: A 30-minute ride up to the entrance.
• Guided tour of Machu Picchu: Explore the mystical ruins with a professional guide, visiting iconic spots like the Temple of the Sun and Intihuatana stone.
• Return to Aguas Calientes: Free time for lunch (not included) and shopping before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo.
• Transfer to Cusco: Arrive back in Cusco by 6:30 pm.

Why it's unforgettable?
Walking through the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu is an awe-inspiring experience, offering a once-in-a-lifetime chance to connect with one of the world's greatest archaeological wonders.

Day 4: Cusco City Tour - Exploring Inca and Colonial Heritage

Quick itinerary:

• Hotel pick-up at 9:30 am: Start the tour at the Plaza de Armas.
• Cusco Cathedral: Explore the grandeur of this World Heritage-listed site.
• Koricancha (Temple of the Sun): Discover the Inca spiritual center that was partially replaced by colonial architecture.
• Sacsayhuaman: Visit this massive stone fortress just outside Cusco.
• Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay: Continue to these smaller Inca sites that offer unique insights into the daily life of the Incas.
• Return to Cusco: Finish the day back at your hotel after exploring these incredible sites.

Why it's unique?
This day takes you through Cusco's dual heritage, showcasing the blend of Inca and Spanish colonial influences, as well as some of the most important spiritual and historical Inca sites.

Day 5: Departure from Cusco

Quick itinerary:

• Hotel pick-up: We'll transfer you to Cusco Airport for your flight home.

Why it's convenient?
The last day of your journey ensures a smooth and hassle-free transfer, allowing you to end your trip in Cusco with ease.

This 5-day itinerary is the perfect combination of history, culture, and adventure, giving you a comprehensive view of Inca civilization and the stunning landscapes of Peru. From the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu and Cusco, each day brings unforgettable experiences that capture the essence of Inca heritage.

Includes / Does not Include

Includes:

• Airport/Hotel pick up and drop off (door to door service).
• 4 Night hotel with private bathrooms and breakfast included (at your selected hotel in Twin/Double - Single - Triple rooms).
• Sacred valley guided tour.
• Machupicchu guided tour.
• Cusco city tour.
• Roundtrip train tickets (at your selected train class) Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo.
• Round trip bus tickets in Machupicchu (Aguas Calientes - Machupicchu - Aguas Calientes).
• All admission tickets including Machupicchu.
• Professional English-speaking tour guide.
• Overland transportation for all transfers during the 5-day program.
• 1 Bottle of Water.

Does not Include:

• International air tickets.
• Domestic air tickets (Lima - Cusco - Lima).
• Waynapicchu admission ticket US$ 65, it must be requested at the time of your booking and will be provided if available.
• One-way Vistadome train upgrade US$ 55.
• Meals (Lunch, Dinner).
• Travel insurance (Highly recommended).
• Additional and personal expenses (laundry, telephone calls, snacks).
• Gratuity (optional).

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS