Cusco Imperial Tour 5 Days

Discover

Highlights

Historic Cusco City Tour: Explore the core of the Inca Empire, visiting the Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun) and the main Cathedral.
Sacsayhuaman Fortress Visit: Witness the massive stone construction of this important Inca complex located above Cusco.
Sacred Valley Exploration: Journey through the fertile valley, a key area for the Incas, connecting Cusco with Machu Picchu.
Pisac’s Ruins and Market: Discover the agricultural terraces of the Pisac archaeological site and browse its famous artisanal market.
Ollantaytambo Fortress Town: Visit the well-preserved Inca town and fortress, a site of a major battle against the Spanish.
Train to Aguas Calientes: Enjoy the scenic train ride through the changing landscapes as you descend towards the cloud forest.
Guided Machu Picchu Tour: A comprehensive guided visit of the world-famous Inca citadel, exploring its main temples and plazas.
Moray’s Agricultural Terraces: See the unique circular terraces believed to have been an Inca agricultural research station.
Maras Salt Mines: Observe the ancient method of salt extraction still practiced today in thousands of shallow pools.
Local Andean Culture: Interact with the local culture and see how historical traditions are maintained in villages like Maras.

Overview

Trip details

Tour Focus – Cultural and Historical Exploration
Highest Altitude – Approx. 3,700m / 12,140ft (at Sacsayhuaman)
Primary City Altitude – 3,350m / 10,990ft (Cusco)
Tour Duration – 5 Days / 4 Nights
Overall Difficulty – Low to Moderate. This tour involves city walking and exploring archaeological sites, with some stairs and uneven surfaces. It does not involve strenuous trekking.
Sites to Visit: Cusco Cathedral, Qoricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Pucapucara, Tambomachay, Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu, Maras, Moray.
Acclimatization: A minimum of two to three days of acclimatization in Cusco before starting the tour is strongly advised to prevent altitude-related issues.

Daily program

Itinerary

DAY 1

Cusco Arrival and City Tour

Upon your arrival at the airport in Cusco (3,350m / 10,990ft), our staff will meet you for assistance and transfer to your selected hotel. You will have the morning free to rest and begin acclimatizing to the altitude.

In the afternoon, between 1:20 PM and 1:30 PM, the guided tour begins. We will first visit the city’s historical center. The tour starts with the “Qoricancha,” or place of gold. This was one of the most important religious centers of the Inca empire and is now the site of the Santo Domingo Convent, showing a clear blend of Inca and Spanish construction. Next, you will visit the Cathedral, which houses a collection of about 300 religious paintings from the Cusqueña School, among other works of art.

After exploring the city center, the tour proceeds to the areas surrounding Cusco to visit four key Inca sites. We will visit Sacsayhuaman (approx. 3,700m / 12,140ft), a majestic place with stone blocks weighing up to 120 tons. This is where the famous Inti Raymi, or Festival of the Sun, is celebrated annually. The tour continues to Qenqo, a labyrinth-like limestone formation, and finally to Pucapucara and Tambomachay, a site dedicated to water worship. At the end of the tour, you will be returned to your hotel. You will spend the night in Cusco.

DAY 2

Cusco to the Sacred Valley of The Incas

A buffet breakfast is provided at the hotel. The tour starts around 8:20 AM when our staff meets you at your hotel reception. You will board a bus for a journey along the Sacred Valley towards the Pisac (approx. 2,972m / 9,750ft) ruins. Here, you can walk along original Inca trails and observe the well-preserved agricultural terraces. Afterward, you will visit the modern town of Pisac and its central market.

A buffet lunch is included. The tour then continues to the archaeological site of Ollantaytambo (approx. 2,792m / 9,160ft), which served as a military, religious, administrative, and agricultural center for the Incas.

After finishing the visit in Ollantaytambo, you will head to the train station to board the train to Aguas Calientes (approx. 2,040m / 6,692ft), the small town located at the base of Machu Picchu. Our staff will be waiting for you at the train station to guide you to your hotel. You will have your accommodation there for the night.

DAY 3

Machu Picchu Exploration

After breakfast at your hotel, you will take a 20-minute bus ride up the winding road to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu (approx. 2,430m / 7,972ft). Here you will enjoy a guided tour of the site. Your guide will explain the history and theories behind this famous lost city.

The location is on a granite peak, often surrounded by mist, with the river roaring far below. The site is a great example of architectural work, constructed from precisely cut granite blocks. The tour will take you around the main areas of the archaeological site, including its agricultural terraces, residential areas, the royal tomb, the Temple of the Sun, the Inti Huatana, the sacred plaza, and other important structures.

In the afternoon, you will take the train back to Ollantaytambo or Poroy station. From there, a vehicle will transfer you back to Cusco. You will spend the night in Cusco.

DAY 4

Maras Moray and Salt Mines

In the morning, your private guide and driver will take you to Maras (approx. 3,380m / 11,090ft), a traditional Andean village. Walking through its streets can feel like stepping back in time, as the local people continue to wear traditional clothing and the town has many historical buildings. You will visit the San Francisco Church, including the baptism room and the bell tower, which offers a great view of the village and the surrounding snow-capped mountains.

Next, you will drive to the circular terraces of Moray (approx. 3,500m / 11,500ft). These terraces were likely used as an Incan laboratory to acclimatize different crops to various altitudes. After this visit, you will have lunch at a local house nearby. Following lunch, you will have the chance to visit the salt terraces of Maras to see and learn about the ancient pre-Incan method of producing salt through evaporation. Afterward, you will take the bus back to Cusco.

DAY 5

Departure from Cusco

After an early breakfast at your hotel, you will be transferred to the airport at the appropriate time for your flight home or to your next destination.

What's included

Inclusions

All transfers to hotels, airports, and stations This means that from your arrival in Cusco to your departure, all ground transportation is handled. This includes your pickup from the airport, drop-off at your hotel, and transportation to and from all tour locations and train stations, which helps simplify your travel logistics.
Tours to Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, Moray, and Maras The package includes guided excursions to all the primary destinations listed in the itinerary. This covers the services of a professional guide and the scheduled activities for each day, ensuring you experience the key sites of the Cusco region.
All transportation for the tours This refers to the tourist-class buses and vehicles used for the Sacred Valley, Maras, Moray, and City Tours. These vehicles are selected for comfort and safety, allowing you to travel between sites efficiently while enjoying the Andean scenery.
Roundtrip train tickets Ollantaytambo – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo Your journey includes the scenic train ride which is the primary way to reach Aguas Calientes. The tickets are for a tourist-class service which offers comfortable seating and large windows to view the changing landscape as you travel through the valley.
Bus from Ollantaytambo to Cusco After your return train journey from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, a private or shared bus transfer will be waiting. This service will take you and other tour members directly back to your respective hotels in Cusco, completing the final leg of your trip from Machu Picchu.
Bus tickets up and down Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu These tickets cover the 20-minute bus ride on the winding road between the town of Aguas Calientes and the entrance of the Machu Picchu citadel. Having these included saves you from waiting in long lines to purchase them on the day of your visit.
Professional tourist guide in English or Spanish You will be accompanied by a licensed, professional guide who is knowledgeable about Inca history, local culture, and the archaeological sites. The guide’s job is to provide context and answer questions, making your visits much more informative than exploring on your own.
Entrance tickets to all attractions This package covers the cost of all required entry fees for the sites on the itinerary. This includes the Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico), which grants access to the Sacred Valley and city sites, as well as the separate, time-sensitive ticket for Machu Picchu.
3 nights hotel in Cusco Your stay includes three nights of accommodation in a standard tourist-class hotel in Cusco. These hotels are selected for their convenient locations, safety, and comfort, providing a reliable place to rest before and after your daily excursions.
1 night in hotel in Aguas Calientes You will spend one night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes, the town below Machu Picchu. This allows you to get an early start for your visit to the citadel the next morning without having to travel from Cusco on the same day.
4 breakfasts and 1 lunch The tour includes daily breakfast at your hotels, which is typically a buffet style with a variety of options. A buffet lunch is also provided during your full-day Sacred Valley tour, featuring a mix of local Peruvian and international dishes.

Airfare Lima-Cusco-Lima The cost of your domestic flights between Lima and Cusco is not part of this tour package. You must book these flights separately. The price, estimated around $240 USD, can change depending on the airline, how far in advance you book, and overall availability.
Meals not specified in the itinerary Apart from the four breakfasts and one buffet lunch in the Sacred Valley, other meals like lunches and all dinners are not included. This gives you the flexibility to explore Cusco’s and Aguas Calientes’ diverse culinary scenes on your own and choose restaurants according to your preferences and budget.
Travel Insurance Personal travel insurance is not covered in the tour price. It is highly recommended that you purchase your own comprehensive travel insurance policy that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other unforeseen events before you begin your trip.
Tips for guides and drivers Gratuities for your guides, drivers, and other staff are not included in the package price. Tipping is a customary way to show appreciation for good service, though it is entirely voluntary. You can decide on the amount based on your satisfaction with their service.
Personal expenses Any expenses of a personal nature are not covered. This includes things like souvenirs, laundry services, alcoholic beverages, snacks, and any activities or purchases you make during your free time that are not part of the scheduled itinerary.

Choose your package

Prices

Here is the pricing list based on this 5-day itinerary: Cusco City Tour → Sacred Valley + Train to Aguas Calientes → Machu Picchu → Maras, Moray & Salt Mines → Departure:

EXTRAS & UPGRADES

Cusco Cathedral Entrance – Day 1 – $11 USD per person (~40 soles — Entry to the magnificent colonial cathedral housing ~300 Cusqueña School paintings, the famous Last Supper with guinea pig, and gold and silver religious treasures. Cash in Peruvian soles only)
Qoricancha / Santo Domingo Convent Entrance – Day 1 – $6 USD per person (~20 soles — The sacred Inca Temple of the Sun, whose perfectly fitted stone walls now support the Spanish colonial convent of Santo Domingo. Cash in Peruvian soles only)
Partial Tourist Ticket – Circuit I (Cusco Sites) – Day 1 – $20 USD per person (~70 soles — Required to enter Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay. Valid for 1 day. Must be purchased in cash in Peruvian soles)
General Cusco Tourist Ticket (All 3 Circuits) – Days 1, 2 & 4 – $36 USD per person (~130 soles — Best value if using the ticket across multiple days. Covers all Cusco City sites, Sacred Valley sites including Pisac and Ollantaytambo, and South Valley sites including Moray. Valid for 10 days)
Sacred Valley Partial Tourist Ticket – Circuit III (Day 2) – $20 USD per person (~70 soles — Required to enter Pisac ruins and Ollantaytambo. Valid for 2 days. Covered by the General Ticket if purchased on Day 1)
Pisac Artisan Market – Day 2 – Free (Browse the most vibrant handicraft market in the Sacred Valley, located in the main plaza of Pisac. Perfect for purchasing textiles, ceramics, silver jewelry, and alpaca goods)
Buffet Lunch in the Sacred Valley – Day 2 – $18–$22 USD per person (Included in most packages. A regional buffet at a top Sacred Valley restaurant featuring traditional Andean dishes including cuy, quinoa soup, and regional stews. Vegetarian options available)
Train Upgrade: Vistadome (Ollantaytambo → Aguas Calientes) – Day 2 – $40 USD per person (Upgrade from the standard Expedition train to the Vistadome for a panoramic scenic journey through the cloud forest along the Urubamba River gorge. Spectacular views of the route to Machu Picchu)
Aguas Calientes Hot Springs – Evening Day 2 – $4 USD per person (Natural thermal baths in the town of Aguas Calientes — a perfect way to relax the evening before your Machu Picchu visit. Cash only, payable at the entrance)
Machu Picchu Bus Ticket (Round Trip) – Day 3 – $24 USD per person (The official Consettur bus service from Aguas Calientes to the Machu Picchu entrance gate — a winding 20-minute ride up the mountain. Must be purchased in advance as lines can be very long during peak season)
Machu Picchu Entrance Ticket – Day 3 – Included in package (The standard package includes Machu Picchu Circuit 1 + Circuit 3, covering the Guardian’s House panoramic viewpoint and the lower sector of the Citadel)
Machu Picchu Circuit 2 Upgrade – Day 3 – $55 USD per person (Adds access to the full Citadel — the Sun Temple, Temple of the Three Windows, Principal Temple, Inti Huatana, and upper terraces. Strongly recommended for the most complete experience of the site)
Huayna Picchu Mountain – Day 3 – $75 USD per person (The iconic steep climb above the Citadel offering breathtaking aerial views of the ruins. Strictly limited — please request 3–5 months in advance. Note: closed for maintenance throughout June 2026)
Machu Picchu Mountain – Day 3 – $75 USD per person (A longer and less crowded alternative with the highest panoramic views of the full Citadel. Requires an early morning entry slot at 6:00 or 8:00 AM. Please request at the time of booking)
Huchuy Picchu Mountain – Day 3 – $30 USD per person (The newest and most accessible optional mountain within Machu Picchu. Achievable within the same Day 3 guided visit)
Buffet Lunch in Aguas Calientes – Day 3 – $22 USD per person (A hearty buffet lunch at a top restaurant in Machu Picchu town after your Citadel visit. Includes traditional Andean and international options. Not included in the base tour)
Vistadome Train Upgrade – Return Day 3 – $67 USD per person (Upgrade your return train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo from the standard Expedition service to the scenic Vistadome with panoramic glass-ceiling windows and an onboard cultural show)
Maras San Francisco Church Bell Tower – Day 4 – Included (Access to the historic colonial San Francisco Church in Maras village, including the baptism room and bell tower offering sweeping views of the surrounding Andes and snow-capped peaks)
Moray Archaeological Site Entrance – Day 4 – Covered by Tourist Ticket (~70 soles partial or included in the 130-soles general ticket. The extraordinary circular Inca agricultural terraces — one of the most unusual and photographed sites in all of Peru)
Maras Salt Mines Entrance – Day 4 – $5 USD per person (~20 soles — Paid directly to the Maras community at the gate. Cash only — no card machines available at the site. Over 3,000 salt evaporation pools carved into the mountainside)
Traditional Lunch at a Local House – Day 4 – Included (A unique homestyle Andean lunch prepared by a local family near Moray — one of the most authentic cultural experiences of the entire itinerary)
Pink Salt of Maras Souvenir Package – Day 4 – $8–$15 USD (Available for purchase directly from local salt-harvesting families at the Maras site. One of the most distinctive and iconic souvenirs from the Cusco region)
ATV / Quad Bike Upgrade – Day 4 – $65 USD per person (Replace the standard van transport for Day 4 with an ATV adventure through the Sacred Valley landscape to visit Moray and the Maras Salt Mines — a thrilling alternative for adventurous travelers)
Airport Transfer – Day 5 – Included (Standard transfer from your hotel in Cusco’s city center to Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport at the appropriate time for your departure flight)

Pricing & Availability – Cusco + Sacred Valley + Machu Picchu + Maras & Moray 5 Days

This 5-day package is available on any date that suits you, year-round. Machu Picchu entrance tickets must be purchased in advance as daily entry is strictly limited — book at least 2–3 months ahead during high season (May–September). A non-refundable deposit of $180 USD per person is required at booking to secure your Machu Picchu tickets and train tickets. Pickup on Day 1 is from Cusco airport on arrival; on subsequent days, pickup is from your hotel. Best season: May to October (dry season).

GROUP SERVICE

$697 USD per person
Discount of $20 USD per person for groups of 5 or more persons

PRIVATE SERVICE

$997 USD per person – 2 persons
$897 USD per person – 3 to 4 persons
$797 USD per person – 5 to 6 persons
$697 USD per person – 7 or more persons

DISCOUNTS

Students (18–25 years old): $20 USD discount. A valid ISIC card or university ID is required at the time of booking. Information required: university name, student name, photo, and expiration date. The student discount also applies to the Machu Picchu entrance ticket through the Peruvian government — a copy of the card is required.
Under 18 years old: $20 USD discount. Please send a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
Children under 9 years old: Free entry at most archaeological sites when accompanied by an adult. Tour service fee still applies.

Important Notes: This 5-day itinerary is the classic introduction to Peru’s most iconic highlights — combining the ancient Inca capital of Cusco, the spectacular Sacred Valley, the Wonder of the World Machu Picchu, and the unique pre-Inca salt mines and agricultural terraces of Maras and Moray. Machu Picchu now operates under a circuit-based timed entry system — all tickets are managed and purchased on your behalf as part of this package. Entrance fees for the Cusco Tourist Ticket (~70 or 130 soles), Qoricancha (~20 soles), the Cathedral (~40 soles), and Maras Salt Mines (~20 soles) must all be paid in cash in Peruvian soles — no card machines are available at these sites. Bring adequate soles for entrance fees throughout the trip. Tips for guides and drivers are optional but always appreciated.

Original Passport You must carry your original passport at all times. It is required for entry into Machu Picchu and for checking into hotels and boarding the train. Photocopies are not accepted for official purposes, so make sure you have the physical document with you.
Comfortable Walking Shoes You will be doing a significant amount of walking on uneven surfaces, including cobblestone streets and dirt paths at archaeological sites. A pair of sturdy, comfortable, and well-worn-in walking shoes or light hikers is essential for your comfort and safety.
Layered Clothing The weather in the Andes can change very quickly. It is best to dress in layers—such as a t-shirt, a fleece or sweater, and a jacket. This allows you to add or remove clothing as the temperature fluctuates between sunny, shaded, and windy conditions throughout the day.
Rain Jacket or Poncho Rain can occur at any time of year in the Andes, even during the dry season. A lightweight, waterproof rain jacket or a simple poncho is critical to have with you. It will keep you dry during unexpected showers and can also act as a windbreaker.
Sun Protection The sun is very strong at high altitudes. You should bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses with UV protection, and high-SPF sunscreen to protect yourself from sunburn. Sunburn can happen quickly here, even on cloudy days, so apply sunscreen regularly.
Small Daypack A small, lightweight backpack is useful for carrying your daily essentials. You can use it to hold your water bottle, snacks, rain jacket, sunscreen, camera, and any souvenirs you purchase during the day, keeping your hands free while exploring.
Personal Medication If you take any prescription medication, be sure to bring an adequate supply for your entire trip. It is also wise to carry a small personal first-aid kit with basics like pain relievers, band-aids, and any remedies for altitude sickness you may choose to use.
Cash for Small Purchases While credit cards are accepted in many hotels and larger restaurants in Cusco, it is very important to have Peruvian Soles in cash. You will need it for small purchases at markets, for tipping, buying water or snacks, and for use in smaller, family-run establishments.

Book in Advance: Machu Picchu entrance tickets, especially those that include climbs to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, sell out months in advance. The same applies to train tickets. To secure your spot and avoid any issues, it’s best to book your tour package several months before your planned travel dates.
Acclimatize Properly: Altitude sickness is a real concern in Cusco. Spend your first day taking it very easy. Avoid heavy meals and alcohol. Walk slowly, drink plenty of water, and try the local remedy, coca tea (mate de coca). Your body needs time to get used to the lower oxygen levels. Do not exert yourself immediately upon arrival.
Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can worsen the symptoms of altitude sickness. Make it a habit to drink much more water than you normally would. Carry a reusable water bottle with you at all times. Avoid drinking tap water; always opt for bottled or properly filtered water.
Be Careful with Food: Peruvian food is a highlight, but be cautious. Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food stalls unless recommended by your guide. Start with simple, cooked dishes to allow your stomach to adjust. Trying too many new, rich foods at once, especially at altitude, can cause digestive upset.
Manage Your Money: Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid your cards being blocked. While ATMs are common in Cusco, they are less available in smaller towns like Ollantaytaytambo and Aguas Calientes. It’s best to withdraw enough cash (Peruvian Soles) in Cusco to cover your expenses for a few days.
Respectful Photography: Always ask for permission before taking photos of local people, especially children. Some individuals, particularly those in traditional clothing with llamas, may expect a small tip in return for a photo. Be respectful of their privacy and customs. Do not use flash photography inside churches or museums.

What to Bring on the Tour

For a 5-day tour in the Cusco region, packing smart is key. Your main luggage will stay at the hotel in Cusco, so a small daypack is essential for daily excursions. In it, you should carry your passport, water, sunblock, a hat, and a rain jacket. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are non-negotiable due to cobblestone streets and uneven paths at ruins. Dress in layers: a t-shirt, a warm fleece, and a waterproof/windproof jacket will prepare you for the sun, wind, and potential rain you might experience all in one day.

Key Travel Recommendations

Your primary concern upon arrival should be acclimatization. Do not plan any strenuous activity for your first 24-48 hours in Cusco. Drink lots of water and coca tea. When it comes to money, have a mix of Peruvian Soles in cash for markets and small expenses and a credit card for larger establishments. Always be aware of your surroundings to protect your valuables, especially in crowded areas like markets and plazas. Finally, purchase a comprehensive travel insurance policy before you leave home.

The Climate in Cusco

Cusco’s climate is defined by two distinct seasons: the dry season and the rainy season.

Dry Season (April to October): This period features clear, sunny days and cold, often freezing, nights. It is generally considered the best time to visit, as the weather is ideal for sightseeing and exploring archaeological sites.
Rainy Season (November to March): This season is characterized by warmer temperatures but frequent and sometimes heavy rainfall, usually in the afternoons. While the landscape becomes green and lush, rain can cause travel disruptions.

Best Season to Travel

The most recommended time to visit Cusco and Machu Picchu is during the dry season, from April to October. June and July are the peak months with the best weather but also the largest crowds. The shoulder months of April, May, September, and October are excellent choices as they offer a good balance of pleasant weather and fewer tourists.

How to Acclimatize to the Altitude

Cusco is located at a high altitude, and most people will feel the effects. Altitude sickness (soroche) can include symptoms like headaches, fatigue, and nausea.

Rest: On your first day, do as little as possible. Let your body adjust.
Hydrate: Drink plenty of water and coca tea. Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
Eat Light: Stick to light meals like soups and avoid heavy, high-fat foods for the first day or two.
Go Slow: Walk at a slow pace and don’t overexert yourself.

Health and Safety Recommendations

For health, always drink bottled or filtered water. Be cautious with street food to avoid stomach issues. In terms of safety, be mindful of your belongings. Don’t flash expensive jewelry or electronics. Keep your daypack secure and be aware of your surroundings, particularly at night and in crowded places. If you need medical assistance, your hotel can recommend a reputable clinic.

The Local People

The people of the Cusco region, many of whom are of Quechua descent, are generally reserved but welcoming. They are proud of their heritage. Learning a few basic words in Spanish like “Hola” (Hello), “Gracias” (Thank you), and “Por favor” (Please) will be appreciated. When visiting local communities or markets, be respectful of their customs.

What to Eat in This Place

Peruvian cuisine is celebrated worldwide. In Cusco, you should try Lomo Saltado (stir-fried beef), Aji de Gallina (creamy chicken stew), and Trucha Frita (fried trout). For the more adventurous, Cuy (guinea pig) is a traditional Andean delicacy. For drinks, try Chicha Morada, a sweet, non-alcoholic beverage made from purple corn, and the famous Pisco Sour cocktail.

Where to Stay

This tour package includes pre-selected hotels in Cusco and Aguas Calientes. Generally, Cusco offers a wide range of accommodation to fit any budget, from social hostels in the San Blas neighborhood to mid-range hotels near the Plaza de Armas and high-end luxury properties in restored historic buildings.

Who is This Tour Recommended For?

This 5-day tour is highly recommended for:

First-time visitors to Peru who want to see the main highlights in an organized way.
Travelers interested in history, archaeology, and culture.
Families and couples looking for a comprehensive trip without extreme physical challenges.
Those with limited time who want an efficient and well-structured itinerary covering Cusco and Machu Picchu.

What is the highest altitude I will reach on this tour?

The highest point you will reach on this specific itinerary is at the Sacsayhuaman archaeological site, which is located just outside of Cusco at an altitude of approximately 3,700 meters or 12,140 feet. The city of Cusco itself sits at around 3,350 meters or 10,990 feet.

Is this tour physically demanding?

This tour is rated as low to moderate in difficulty. It does not involve any long-distance trekking. However, it does require a fair amount of walking through cities with cobblestone streets and at archaeological sites with uneven ground and stairs. A reasonable level of fitness is beneficial to fully enjoy the sites.

What type of currency should I bring?

The official currency of Peru is the Peruvian Sol (PEN). It is highly recommended to have cash in Soles for smaller purchases, markets, and tips. US dollars are sometimes accepted in larger hotels and tourist-oriented businesses, but you will get a better rate using the local currency. ATMs are widely available in Cusco.

Will I have access to Wi-Fi?

Most hotels in Cusco and Aguas Calientes offer Wi-Fi, though the connection speed can sometimes be slower than what you might be used to at home. Many restaurants and cafes in tourist areas also provide free Wi-Fi for customers.

Is the water safe to drink?

It is not recommended to drink tap water in Peru. To avoid any health issues, you should only drink bottled water, which is readily available for purchase everywhere. You can also use a water filter or purification tablets if you have them.

What is the food like on the tour?

The tour includes daily breakfasts at the hotels, which are usually buffet-style with a mix of local and international options. One buffet lunch is included in the Sacred Valley, offering a chance to try various Peruvian dishes. For other meals, you are free to explore local restaurants.

How much walking is involved each day?

Each day involves several hours of walking, but it is broken up into segments. For instance, the Cusco City Tour and visits to sites like Machu Picchu and Ollantaytambo involve walking for two to three hours at a time, often on uneven terrain. The pace is generally relaxed.

What happens if I suffer from altitude sickness?

Minor symptoms of altitude sickness are common. The best approach is to rest, hydrate, and drink coca tea. If symptoms are severe or persistent, your guide will assist you in getting medical attention. There are clinics in Cusco that specialize in treating tourists.

Is there a luggage limit on the train to Machu Picchu?

Yes, the train companies have strict luggage restrictions. You are typically only allowed one small bag or backpack weighing no more than 5-8 kg (11-18 lbs). You will need to pack a small overnight bag for your night in Aguas Calientes and leave your main luggage in secure storage at your hotel in Cusco.

Are tips included in the tour price?

Tips for your guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included in the tour price. Tipping is a personal and voluntary gesture. If you are satisfied with the service provided, a tip is a welcome way to show your appreciation.

What is the Boleto Turístico and is it included?

The Boleto Turístico del Cusco (Cusco Tourist Ticket) is a pass that grants access to 16 different sites in and around Cusco, including those in the Sacred Valley. This tour package includes the necessary tourist ticket for the sites visited in the itinerary.

Can I climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain with this tour?

This standard tour package does not include the additional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. These require a separate, special ticket that must be booked very far in advance due to limited availability. If you are interested, you should request this at the time of booking.

What is the electrical voltage in Peru?

The standard electrical voltage in Peru is 220 volts. The outlets typically accept two-pronged plugs, both the flat North American style and the round European style. If your devices do not support 220V, you will need a voltage converter. A simple plug adapter is often sufficient for most modern electronics like phones and laptops.

What kind of weather should I expect?

The weather in the Andes is highly variable. You should be prepared for strong sun, wind, and potential rain, sometimes all in the same day. Days can be warm if it’s sunny, but temperatures drop significantly as soon as the sun sets or goes behind a cloud. Nights are cold.

Is there an age restriction for this tour?

There is no specific age restriction for this tour. It is suitable for families with children as well as older adults, provided they are in good health and can handle the walking and altitude. The itinerary can be adapted to a slower pace if needed.

Get in touch

Inquire now

Ready to experience Machu Picchu? Let our expert team take care of every detail, from tickets and trains to transportation and guiding, so you can just focus on enjoying one of the world's most impressive destinations. With years of experience, personalized assistance, and hundreds of happy travelers each year, we make your visit simple, safe, and unforgettable. Book your Machu Picchu tour today and secure your spot in Peru's most iconic wonder before availability runs out.