Machu Picchu & Cusco – 5-Day Tour

Introduction

This Machu Picchu & Cusco Tour spans five days in Peru’s highlands, starting and ending in Cusco. Day one brings you from Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport to your hotel in the old Inca City, where you’ll rest, sip coca tea, and acclimatize.

In the afternoon a guided walk hits Plaza de Armas, Qorikancha Temple of the Sun, Sacsayhuaman walls, then smaller ruins at Q’enqo and Tambomachay. You sleep in a comfortable city hotel before Sacred Valley adventures begin.

You head to Pisac market and terraces, stop at Maras salt pans and Inca circular terraces at Moray, then ride a scenic train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. Next morning you rise before dawn for a first look at Machu Picchu, wandering ancient plazas and hidden fountains before crowds arrive.

Late afternoon train returns you to Cusco. Two more days allow culture deep dives, local workshops, and final airport drop. It’s packed but manageable, rich history, hands-on moments.

Trip Details

Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
Activities: Hiking, Culture, Adventure
Average Group Size: Up to 16
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Accommodation: Hotel (3 nights), Aguas Calientes lodge (1 night)
Tour Language: English, Spanish
Hiking Distance: 15 km / 9 mi total on uneven terrain
Starts/Ends: Cusco / Cusco
Minimum Altitude: 2430 msnm (7972 ft)
Max Altitude: 3399 msnm (11152 ft)
Age Recommended: Min 12 Years Old
is Necesary Aclimatization: yes
Tickets to entrance: is Necesary buy in advance

Trip Summary

Day 1 Arrival in Cusco

You arrive at Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco where your guide meets you and transfers you to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to acclimate at high altitude wander colonial streets browse local markets and sample Peruvian dishes at your own pace.

Day 2 Cusco City Tour

Your guide picks you up at 9 AM for a tour of the city. You explore the Cathedral of Cusco and the Temple of the Sun Qoricancha then head to Tambomachay Pucapucara Qenqo and finish at Sacsayhuaman before returning to your hotel by early afternoon.

Day 3 Sacred Valley Tour

You depart early for the Sacred Valley stopping first at the Pisac archaeological site and its vibrant market where local artisans sell handicrafts. After a buffet lunch in Urubamba you visit the Maras salt mines the circular terraces at Moray and end the day at Ollantaytambo exploring its Inca City.

Day 4 Machu Picchu Adventure

A morning train through the Urubamba Valley brings you to Aguas Calientes then a bus takes you up the mountain road to Machu Picchu. Your guide leads a detailed tour of the ruins before you return by bus and train to Cusco in time to relax at your hotel.

Day 5 Departure from Cusco

After breakfast you check out and a representative transfers you back to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport for your departure.

Why you'll love this tour

You move from street cafes in Cusco to mountain peaks quickly yet without rush, exploring Inca City streets with a guide who shares little-known stories. Then Sacred Valley gems, a train ride through green ravines, and sunrise steps at Machu Picchu. Every day brings a fresh scene with local flavor, history facts and chance to chat with artisans.
You get off the beaten path at Moray’s circular fields and watch salt workers at Maras splashing brine pools. It’s hands-on, you trek short slopes, marvel at ancient engineering. Then you board a train with valley views framed by Andes ridges. It feels like a living history lesson and a photo trip all in one.
You arrive before dawn at Machu Picchu, stand in near silence while the sun hits stone stairways and plazas. No crowds yet. Guides point out water channels built a millennium ago, and you wander terraces almost alone. That moment of stillness in a million-year landscape sticks with you longer than any postcard could.
You stay in three different places—Cusco, Ollantaytambo, Aguas Calientes—sampling local cuisine at each stop. From fresh trout in the mountain town, chicha corn beer beside Inca ruins, to buffet lunch in Urubamba, flavors shift every day. It’s an edible tour too, and you learn about regional staples as you go.

Itinerary

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DAY 1 Arrival in Cusco

Upon arrival at Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport our guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. Use the day to acclimate to the altitude and explore the city at your own pace. Admire colonial architecture browse local markets and sample Peruvian dishes.

DAY 2 Cusco City Tour

The tour starts at 9 AM with hotel pickup. First stop is the Cathedral of Cusco then the Temple of the Sun – Qoricancha. Next we visit Tambomachay Pucapucara Qenqo and Sacsayhuaman. Return to your hotel in Cusco by 1 PM.

DAY 3 Sacred Valley Tour

Begin at Pisac archaeological site and its vibrant market where you can shop handicrafts and meet local artisans. Continue to the Maras salt mines and the circular terraces of Moray. Enjoy a buffet lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon we head to Ollantaytambo to explore its Inca City used for astronomy administration religion and agriculture.

DAY 4 Machu Picchu Adventure

Travel by train through the Urubamba Valley then by bus up the mountain road to Machu Picchu. Explore the ruins with our guide who will explain its history and engineering. After the tour return by bus and train to Cusco and relax at your hotel.

DAY 5 Departure from Cusco

After breakfast a representative will transfer you from your hotel to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport.

Hotels with Breakfast

• Four nights in a hotel in Cusco
• Two nights in a hotel in Aguas Calientes

Tours and Excursions in Portuguese

Walking tour in Cusco Courtesy service
Archaeological city tour in Cusco Regular service
Sacred Valley of the Incas tour + buffet lunch Regular service
Guided Machu Picchu visit Private service

Tours and Excursions in Spanish

Cocalmayo tour Private service
Rainbow Mountain trek + meals Regular service

Transport and Tickets

Inca City of Machu Picchu entrance ticket
Cocalmayo entrance tickets
Tourist train Ollantaytambo → Aguas Calientes
Tourist train Aguas Calientes → Hydroelectric Station
Tourist bus Aguas Calientes → Machu Picchu → Aguas Calientes
Tourist train Hydroelectric Station → Aguas Calientes
Tourist train Machu Picchu → Ollantaytambo or Cusco
Tickets for all archaeological sites visited

Private Transfers

Transfer Airport → Hotel in Cusco
Transfer Hydroelectric Station → Cocalmayo
Transfer Cocalmayo → Hydroelectric Station
Transfer Cusco or Ollantaytambo station → Hotel in Cusco
Transfer Hotel in Cusco → Airport

Benefts of Machu Picchu Travel

24-hour assistance in Portuguese / English / Spanish
Professional guides and staff on all tours
Spanish and English guides available on request
Personalized concierge support throughout your trip

Reviews

5.0 4.9 - 462 TripAdvisor Reviews

Discover what fellow travelers have to say about their journeys through Turkey. From breathtaking landscapes to rich cultural experiences, these reviews highlight the unforgettable moments that make each trip truly special.

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★★★★★ 420
★★★★☆ 34
★★★☆☆ 5
★★☆☆☆ 3
★☆☆☆☆ 0

Oswaldo Luiz C

5.0

A Agencia primou pela qualidade. Tanto nas programações, excelentes guias, qualidade dos transportes, horários e pontualidade.

Ruan N

5.0

A agência Yacana foi perfeita! Organizou nossos passeios no Peru da melhor forma possível, nos deu todo suporte que precisamos, independentemente do horário, nos deu dicas valiosas para os passeios, sugestões, além do acompanhamento de tudo ao longo dos dias....

Sunshine60374635165

5.0

Experiência indescritível! Fomos em 2 casais para o Peru e contratamos absolutamente todos os passeios com a Yacana. Vale Sagrado, Machu Picchu, 7 lagunas, montanha colorida, city tour cusco e islas ballestas e oasis em Lima. Segurança impecável, pontualidade perfeita...

Diego R

5.0

Experiência incrível, passeios todos bem feitos com a Yacana. Guias muitos preparados e prestativos, em especial a Rosa. Recomendo!

Daniele P

5.0

A agência tem um excelente atendimento, faz adaptações e oferece os melhores passeios, além de todo o pós venda que captura os feedbacks de forma atenta e cuidadosa. Recomendo para todos que posso os serviços da Yacana.

Flávia F

5.0

Tivemos ótima experiência com nossos tour! Equipe pontual, muito organizada, guias bem preparados e simpáticos . Empresa de confiança!

Tamara F

5.0

Tivemos uma experiencia maravilhosa com o guia Robert e motorista Hernan no passeio a Wanacancha + Pisac! O Robert é uma simpatia e cheio de cultura - um professor!!! Recomendamos muito!!

Miliani Greco

5.0

Desde o início do atendimento até a execução do que contratamos, foram extremamente atenciosos e pontuais. Não precisávamos nos preocupar com nada, apenas em curtir o Peru e suas belezas.

Read all reviews Reviews for all trips

Included

Transfers from Cusco airport
Hotel pickups and drop-offs
Entrance to all sites in Cusco (tourist ticket – Cathedral and Qoricancha) and Machu Picchu
Private transportation
Buffet lunch in the Sacred Valley
Expedition train Ollantaytambo → Aguas Calientes
Expedition train Aguas Calientes → Ollantaytambo
Round-trip bus ticket Aguas Calientes ↔ Machu Picchu
All Machu Picchu entrance fees
Private guide throughout the tour
Transfer to Cusco airport on day fiv

Not Included

Travel insurance
International and domestic airfare
Meals and beverages not mentioned above
Extra expenses: tips laundry phone calls and items not listed

What to Bring

Passport and printed train and entrance tickets: Must show at train station and Machu Picchu gate
Day pack (20 L): Room for layers, snacks, water bottle, camera
Water bottle (1.5 L): Refill stations at Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes
Layers: T-shirt, fleece, light jacket for mornings above 3300 msnm
Rain jacket: Afternoon showers common in Aguas Calientes and high valleys
Sun protection: High-UV at altitude, broad-rim hat, sunglasses, sunscreen SPF 50
Sturdy shoes: Broken-in hiking boots or trail runners for uneven Inca stone
Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, dried fruit for mid-route boost
Insect repellent: Mosquitoes near river and market areas
Personal meds: Altitude pills recommended if prone to headaches

Is this trip right for you?

If you can handle early wake-ups and tight schedules then this is for you. You’ll be up by 4 am to catch the first train to Machu Picchu, move on to Sacred Valley sites by noon, and still have time in the afternoon for local workshops in Cusco. It’s full-on but hugely rewarding.
If you’ve never been above 3000 msnm prepare for thin air. We allow acclimatization in Cusco on day one and two. Yet anyone prone to headaches or breathlessness should build in extra rest. Oxygen tanks are on hand but you must still be comfortable walking a few kilometers each day.
If you travel solo or in a small group this trip works well. Group size tops out at sixteen, you won’t feel swallowed by a crowd. Guides tailor pacing, answer questions, share insider tips on the best photo angles. There’s room to chat or to slip away for a quiet moment beside Inca City fountains.
If you want a simple hotel-only tour without camping gear, this fits. No heavy backpacks, no remote camps. You board trains, sleep in three-star hotels, eat cooked meals. Yet each day includes a short hike—up to three kilometers on uneven Inca stone—so some sturdy shoes and basic fitness help.

Pricing

Updgrades

Huayna Picchu ticket ($75): Limited slots, reserve early for that steep summit above Machu Picchu ridge
Private car transfer in Sacred Valley ($20): Skip group shuttle, move faster between sites if your time is tight
Superior hotel in Aguas Calientes ($40 per night): Larger room, hot tub access, better breakfast spread
Temple of the Sun entry ($20): Separate Machu Picchu sector, fewer visitors, special guided explanation
Travel insurance add-on ($30): Covers delays at high altitude, emergency transport, medical aid

Travel Guide

Recommendations
Spend two nights in Cusco before departure. Avoid heavy activity on arrival. Drink coca tea, stay hydrated. Book all tickets at least a week ahead.

Climate
Dry season May–September offers clear skies but chilly mornings. October–April brings showers in afternoons. Pack layered clothing.

Season of the year recommended
June and July for lowest rain chance yet expect more people. April or October balance fewer crowds with occasional rain.

What to wear
Long pants and quick-dry shirts, warm mid-layer, light shell, comfortable walking shoes, sun gear.

Physical preparation
Train with uphill walks at home. Add stairs carrying 5 kg pack. Practice breathing in open air if possible.

Local people
Quechua-speaking farmers and artisans in Sacred Valley greet with hola and sonrisa. They offer textiles, ceramics, small talk.

Who is this for
Travelers over 12 who handle altitude, enjoy steep stone paths, love history and small-group settings.

Food on route
You’ll taste buffet in Urubamba—roasted chicken, quinoa soup, local veggies. In Cusco try alpaca steak or fresh trout. Aguas Calientes menus mix Andean and tourist options. Expect simple hearty plates, occasional surprises like choclo con queso.

Faqs

How do I get from Cusco to Machu Picchu?

You take a van to Ollantaytambo, board a train to Aguas Calientes. From there a shuttle bus climbs to the Machu Picchu entrance gate. Trains run morning and afternoon.

When should I secure my train and Machu Picchu tickets?

Ideally at least two weeks before travel in high season. Sometimes spots sell out faster if a festival or group bookings occur.

Can I adjust the order of Sacred Valley stops?

Yes, with private car upgrade you can choose to start at Moray or Maras, then finish in Pisac for market visits on Sundays.

Is the Machu Picchu sunrise visit crowded?

Early entrance at 05:30 has fewer people. By 08:00 main terraces fill. The guide times aim to maximize quiet moments.

What’s the highest altitude on this tour?

Cusco peaks at 3399 msnm. At night in Ollantaytambo you’re at about 2792 msnm. Machu Picchu sits at 2430 msnm.

Are there toilets along the route?

Yes—restrooms at Ollantaytambo station, Aguas Calientes train station, and near Machu Picchu entrance. All basic facilities.

Do I need cash or cards?

Small markets accept soles cash only. Hotels and train stations take major credit cards. Bring small bills for tips.

Can I join solo?

Absolutely. Small groups include solo travelers. You’ll meet others, but can also branch off for personal photos or quiet time.

What languages do guides speak?

English and Spanish fluently. Some share basic Quechua greetings and vocabulary for cultural context.

Is Wi-Fi available?

Limited Wi-Fi in most hotels. No reliable signal at Machu Picchu park or remote Sacred Valley stops.

What footwear is best?

Sturdy trail runners or hiking boots with ankle support. Inca stone can be slippery when wet.

How long is the walking each day?

Ranges from two to four kilometers per day on uneven trails. Sacred Valley day can include short climbs of 200 m elevation.

Can I skip city tour and start in Sacred Valley?

Yes with a private guide or custom booking you can reorganize to begin day one in Urubamba or Ollantaytambo.

What meals are included?

Breakfast every day, one buffet lunch in Urubamba, dinner on your own except farewell dinner on day four.

Is tipping expected?

Guides and drivers appreciate 10–15 % of tour cost. Local staff at hotels and restaurants also welcome small tips.

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