Cusco & Machu Picchu 5 Days

Duration

5 Days

Type of tour

Historical

Difficulty

Easy

Best Time

All year round

Enjoy Cusco and Machu Picchu with a 5-day tour designed for everyone’s comfort and peace of mind, where every detail is carefully planned so you can live a complete experience without worries. With transfers, accommodation, entrance tickets, and guides included, you will explore temples, plazas, markets, and the majestic Inca citadel at a relaxed pace, savoring every moment. This program is created for people of all ages, ideal for those who see every journey as an unforgettable adventure, who enjoy connecting with history and culture, and who are willing to take the necessary time to live unique experiences in the heart of the Andes.

Day 1: Acclimatize, Relax, and Discover Cusco

Arrival in Cusco and transfer to the hotel.
Time to acclimatize to the altitude (3,400 m.a.s.l.).
Leisurely walk through the city: plazas, colonial streets, and local cafés.
Recommendation: take it easy to avoid altitude sickness.
Overnight in Cusco.

Day 2: Explore the Monuments of Cusco and Its Surroundings

Classic afternoon City Tour:
Cusco Cathedral
Temple of the Sun (Qorikancha)
Sacsayhuamán archaeological complex
Qenqo
Puka Pukara
Tambomachay
Ideal to learn about the history, churches, plazas, and the most impressive Inca ruins.
Overnight in Cusco.

Day 3: Discover the Sacred Valley of the Incas

Full-day excursion:
Pisaq market and ruins
Buffet lunch in Urubamba
Ollantaytambo fortress
Optional depending on program:
Moray (circular agricultural terraces)
Maras Salt Mines
Train to Aguas Calientes and overnight stay.

Day 4: Machu Picchu, Wonder of the World

Early morning bus Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu.
Guided tour of the citadel:
Guardian House (classic view)
Temple of the Sun
Intihuatana
Temple of the Three Windows
Free time to explore or climb Huayna Picchu / Machu Picchu Mountain (advance booking
required).
Return by train to Cusco.
Overnight in Cusco.

Day 5: Cusco – Farewell

Breakfast at the hotel.
Free time depending on flight schedule.
Transfer to the airport.

Day 1: Acclimatize, Relax, and Discover Cusco
Upon arrival in the city of Cusco, you will be transferred to your hotel to check in and rest a little. It is important to take this first day slowly, as the city is located at 3,400 m.a.s.l. and altitude sickness can be felt if you are not used to it. The best recommendation is to relax, drink coca tea, and take advantage of the day with a light walk around the historic center. You can stroll through its beautiful squares, walk along the colonial streets, and enjoy a coffee while watching local life. This first day is designed for acclimatization and to begin enjoying the charm of Cusco without rushing. Overnight in Cusco.

Day 2: Explore the Monuments of Cusco and Its Surroundings
After breakfast, the morning will be free for you to continue exploring the city at your own pace. In the afternoon, the classic Cusco City Tour begins, an experience that combines history, culture, and archaeology. The visit includes the majestic Cusco Cathedral and the Temple of the Sun, known as Qorikancha, considered one of the most important sanctuaries of the Inca era. Afterwards, you will visit nearby archaeological sites: the impressive fortress of Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay, each with a special role in the Inca worldview. It is an ideal tour to understand the grandeur of the ancient Empire and its fusion with the colonial era. Overnight in Cusco.

Day 3: Discover the Sacred Valley of the Incas
The third day will be dedicated to exploring the famous Sacred Valley of the Incas, a place full of Andean landscapes, history, and tradition. The first stop will be Pisaq, where you can explore its handicraft market and the ruins located high on the mountain. Then, you will enjoy a buffet lunch in Urubamba, surrounded by privileged natural scenery. The afternoon continues with a visit to the Ollantaytambo fortress, an archaeological center that still preserves functioning Inca streets and constructions. Optionally, the program may include a stop at Moray, with its circular terraces used as an agricultural laboratory, and the Maras Salt Mines, famous for their more than 3,000 salt pools. At the end of the tour, you will board the train to Aguas Calientes, the base town of Machu Picchu, where you will spend the night.

Day 4: Machu Picchu, Wonder of the World
This will undoubtedly be the most anticipated day of the trip. Early in the morning, you will take the bus from Aguas Calientes up to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. Upon entering, you will begin a guided tour of approximately two to three hours, exploring the most important sectors such as the Guardian House, which offers the classic panoramic view, the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana, and the Temple of the Three Windows, among other highlights. After the guided visit, you will have free time to explore on your own, relax on the terraces, or, if you reserved in advance, hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, which provide breathtaking views. In the afternoon, you will descend back to Aguas Calientes by bus and then take the train returning to Cusco. Overnight in Cusco.

Day 5: Cusco – Farewell
After breakfast at the hotel, you will have some free time for a last stroll through the city, shopping for souvenirs, or simply relaxing. At the scheduled time, you will be transferred to the airport to board your return flight, taking with you an unforgettable experience in Cusco and Machu Picchu.

¿Qué incluye?

All transfers to hotel, airport, stations, and attractions.
Tours to Machu Picchu, the City of Cusco, and surroundings.
All transportation for the tours.
Round-trip train tickets Cusco – Machu Picchu – Cusco.
Reception and transfer to the hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Bus tickets up and down Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes.
Professional tour guide in English or Spanish.
Entrance tickets to the tourist attractions to visit: Machu Picchu, the city, surroundings, churches.
Transfers for all departures.
1 night hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes.
3 nights hotel accommodation in Cusco.
4 buffet breakfasts.
1 buffet lunch in the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
Ticket and space reservations, plus agency service.

No incluye

Air tickets.
Meals not mentioned.
Extra expenses (drinks, water, among others).
Partial Tourist Ticket (entrance to Pisaq and Ollantaytambo).

Recomendaciones

Acclimatization: Rest on the first day and avoid intense physical effort to prevent altitude sickness.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water and, if you wish, coca tea or Andean infusions that help with adaptation.
Appropriate clothing: Bring warm clothes for the cold nights in Cusco and light, comfortable clothes for Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley.
Footwear: Wear comfortable walking shoes, as most tours include visits to archaeological sites.
Sun protection: Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, even on cloudy days.
Cash: Carry cash in Peruvian soles for personal expenses or purchases at artisan markets (cards are not always accepted).
Tickets and documents: Keep your passport, train tickets, entrance tickets, and student card (if applicable) handy.
Camera or cell phone with extra battery: Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley offer unique landscapes you’ll want to capture.
Personal first-aid kit: Include basic medicines, especially for altitude sickness, dizziness, or headaches.

How much does the package cost?

The truth is, experiencing Cusco is worth far more than what you’ll actually pay. At Real Cusco Tour we offer fair and accessible prices, depending on the type of train, hotel, and services you choose. But beyond the cost, this journey is an opportunity to live a truly unforgettable experience—one that stays with you forever.

We have seasonal offers and last-minute promotions that adapt to your time and availability.
Want to stay in a different hotel? Do you have something special in mind? Write to us and we’ll create a personalized proposal for you—no commitment required.

Information: www.realcuscotour.com
WhatsApp: +51 973 144 694
WhatsApp: +51 956 289 811

Book Early, Save More, Enjoy More

Special guaranteed discount when booking at least 3 months in advance.
Better availability to choose trains and schedules that truly fit your plans.
Lower hotel rates secured before high season.
Flexible date changes without penalties (conditions apply), because we know flights can change.

Special Discounts for Groups

If you’re organizing a trip with family, friends, or colleagues, Real Cusco Tour has exclusive benefits for groups of 6 or more people. Enjoy a more comfortable, organized, and affordable experience with these perks:

Special per-person rates: The more people, the better the price. Group discounts range from 5% to 15% depending on the package chosen—without sacrificing service quality.
Flexible schedules: Possibility to adjust departures, stops, or activities according to your group’s needs.
Private transport and guide: Your group will have its own tourist vehicle and a dedicated professional guide, ensuring you travel at your own pace with all the attention you deserve.

Updated prices with different options are subject to availability

TOURIST CATEGORY – BASIC	HOTEL CUSCO	HOTEL AGUAS CALIENTES	PRICE PER PAX
Expedition o The Voyager + Hotel 2★	Hotel Usgar	Hotel Pisonay	559.00 USD
Expedition o The Voyager + Hotel 3★	Monasterio San Pedro	Hotel Hatun Inti Clasic	669.00 USD
Expedition o The Voyager + Hotel 4★	Hotel Costa Del Sol	Hotel Tierra Viva	729.00 USD
EXECUTIVE/PANORAMIC INT. CATEGORY	HOTEL CUSCO	HOTEL AGUAS CALIENTES	PRICE PER PAX
Vistadome o The 360° + Hotel 2★	Hotel Usgar	Hotel Pisonay o Andino	609.00 USD
Vistadome o The 360° + Hotel 3★	Monasterio San Pedro	Hotel Hatun Inti Clasic	729.00 USD
Vistadome o The 360° + Hotel 4★	Hotel Costa Del Sol	Hotel Tierra Viva	789.00 USD
Vistadome Observatory + Hotel 2★	Hotel Usgar	Hotel Pisonay	649.00 USD
Vistadome Observatory + Hotel 3★	Monasterio San Pedro	Hotel Hatun Inti Clasic	769.00 USD
Vistadome Observatory + Hotel 4★	Hotel Costa Del Sol	Hotel Tierra Viva	829.00 USD
FIRST CLASS – SUPERIOR CATEGORY	HOTEL CUSCO	HOTEL AGUAS CALIENTES	PRICE PER PAX
Hiram Bingham + Hotel 5★	Hotel Marriot	Hotel Inkaterra	3199.00 USD
The First Class + Hotel 5★	Hotel Marriot	Hotel Inkaterra	2699.00 USD

Preguntas frecuentes

What type of tour is it?
It is a History and Adventure tour, perfect for travelers who want to discover the best of Cusco and Machu Picchu.
How long does the tour last?
The program lasts 5 days and 4 nights.
When is it available?
The tour is available year-round.
What is the maximum altitude we will reach?
The maximum altitude is 3,700 m.a.s.l. (Cusco and surroundings).
Is the tour difficult?
No, the level of difficulty is easy, suitable for all kinds of travelers.
What is included?
Transfers, hotels (3 nights in Cusco and 1 in Aguas Calientes), round-trip train to Machu Picchu, entrance tickets, professional guides, breakfasts, and one buffet lunch.
What is not included?
Flights, meals not mentioned, personal expenses, and the partial tourist ticket for Pisaq and Ollantaytambo.
Do I need to acclimatize before the tour?
Yes, the first day is designed for acclimatization and adaptation to the altitude.
What is the best month to travel to Cusco and Machu Picchu?
You can travel year-round, but the best season is from April to October (dry season).
What clothes should I bring?
Light, comfortable clothes for the day, warm clothes for cold nights in Cusco, walking shoes, sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.
How long does the Machu Picchu visit last?
The guided tour lasts 2 to 3 hours, with extra free time to explore or take optional hikes.
Can I climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
Yes, but it requires advance reservation and has limited availability.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it is easy-level and accessible for families, children (with supervision), and older adults.

MACHU PICCHU CIRCUITS: DETAILED INFORMATION

Machu Picchu has three main circuits, designed to offer you a unique and well-organized experience, avoiding crowds at the most popular spots. Each circuit is structured to explore different areas of the Inca citadel. Below, we detail each one:

CIRCUIT 1: PANORAMIC VIEW (IDEAL FOR ICONIC PHOTOS)

This circuit allows you to enjoy the best panoramic views of Machu Picchu. It is perfect for those who want to capture the classic postcard shot from the Guardian’s House, but it does not include access to the interior of the citadel.

Route 1-A: In addition to the panoramic tour, it includes a hike to the summit of Machu Picchu Mountain. The climb takes about 3 hours (round trip).
Route 1-B: Visit the Guardian’s House and the upper sector of Machu Picchu for spectacular photos. A short 40-minute tour.
Route 1-C: Hike to Intipunku (Sun Gate), a strategic point where Inca Trail hikers get their first glimpse of the citadel.
Route 1-D: A panoramic tour that includes a visit to the Inca Bridge, a fascinating structure located on the mountainside.

CIRCUIT 2: COMPLETE EXPLORATION (RECOMMENDED AND MOST DEMANDED)

This is the most complete circuit and allows you to explore both the inner sectors of Machu Picchu and the most emblematic spots. It is ideal for those who want a full experience.

Route 2-A (Classic): Visit the most important points such as the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana, the Sacred Rock, the Temple of the Condor, and the Guardian’s House viewpoint for the famous classic photo.
Route 2-B (Lower Terrace): Similar to Route 2-A, but without access to the Guardian’s House viewpoint. From a lower terrace, you can capture views similar to the classic photo.

CIRCUIT 3: LOWER AREA TOUR (HISTORY AND EXCLUSIVITY)

This circuit is designed for those who want to explore less crowded areas and discover exclusive sectors, especially those dedicated to Inca royalty.

Route 3-A (Huayna Picchu Mountain): Combines Circuit 3 with a hike to the summit of Huayna Picchu Mountain, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views and encounter archaeological remains. The hike takes about 2 hours (round trip).
Route 3-B (Inca Royalty): Explore the areas built for royalty, with a special focus on architectural details. It does not include the classic citadel views.
Route 3-C (Great Cave): Includes the lower circuit and a visit to the Temple of the Moon, a mysterious structure located inside a natural cave on Huayna Picchu Mountain.
Route 3-D (Huchuy Picchu Mountain): Offers a hike to the summit of Huchuy Picchu Mountain, a more accessible option than Huayna Picchu but equally impressive.

Important: To add Circuit 2 to your Machu Picchu visit, check availability or book in advance. This is the most recommended circuit due to its broad coverage of the citadel. Combining panoramic views with the most significant archaeological sites, it is ideal for those who want to explore the highlights of Machu Picchu.

TRAINS TO MACHU PICCHU: CHOOSE THE BEST OPTION FOR YOUR TRIP

Traveling by train to Machu Picchu is not just transportation—it’s an essential part of your experience. With options ranging from comfortable budget-friendly rides to exclusive luxury journeys, you can choose the type of train that best fits your needs and budget.

Departure Points

Cusco (San Pedro): Departing from the heart of Cusco city, this station is ideal if you want to travel directly from downtown. (Available only with PeruRail trains).
Poroy: Just 30 minutes from Cusco, Poroy is an excellent option if you want to shorten your travel time. (Available from April to December).
Ollantaytambo: The most popular departure point, offering more schedule options throughout the year. Perfect if you are staying in the Sacred Valley.
Hidroeléctrica: For the more adventurous, this station combines bus transport with a hike to Aguas Calientes. A unique alternative for travelers seeking a more rustic, nature-immersed experience.

TRAIN OPTIONS: CHOOSE ACCORDING TO YOUR STYLE AND BUDGET

Budget Trains: Comfort and Affordability

If you’re looking for an affordable option without sacrificing comfort, these are perfect for you:

Expedition (PeruRail)

Travel comfortably without overspending.
Panoramic windows to enjoy the scenery.
Snacks and drinks available on board.

The Voyager (Inca Rail)

Comfortable ride at an accessible price.
Ergonomic seating for guaranteed comfort.
Snacks and drinks offered during the trip.

Perfect for those who want a good balance between quality and price.

Panoramic Trains: Experience the Scenery in Full

If your priority is to enjoy the stunning landscape, these options give you an unmatched visual experience:

Vistadome (PeruRail)

Panoramic windows all around the carriage, including the ceiling.
Snacks and beverages for a more pleasant trip.
Cultural presentations on board for a richer experience.

Vistadome Observatory (PeruRail)

Similar to the Vistadome, but with an additional observatory carriage for even broader views.
Live music and an exclusive atmosphere to enjoy every moment.

The 360° (Inca Rail)

Large windows for breathtaking views of the Andean landscape.
Snacks and an interactive audio guide during the journey.

The perfect choice for those who want to enjoy the scenery without interruptions and with extra comfort.

Luxury Trains: Travel with Full Comfort and Exclusivity

If you’re looking for a luxury experience where every detail is taken care of to make your trip unforgettable, these options are designed for you:

Hiram Bingham (PeruRail)

First-class all-inclusive experience: gourmet lunch, drinks, and entertainment.
Personalized service and luxury attention throughout the journey.
Private guide for your Machu Picchu tour, exclusive access, and transport from Aguas Calientes.

The First Class (Inca Rail)

Spacious, comfortable seats ideal for relaxing during your trip.
Welcome cocktail and gourmet lunch with delicious options.
Access to an observatory carriage for spectacular views.

The Private (Inca Rail)

Exclusive carriage for small groups with personalized service.
Enjoy luxury and comfort in every detail, with a unique private atmosphere.
The most exclusive journey for those seeking an exceptional experience.

Ideal for travelers who want maximum comfort, privacy, and luxury during their journey.

From Budget to Luxury: Which Train to Choose for Machu Picchu?

If your goal is a budget-friendly trip without losing comfort: Expedition or The Voyager are perfect for you.

If you want to enjoy the scenery with panoramic views and more comfort: Vistadome, Vistadome Observatory, or The 360° are the best options.

If you’re looking for a luxury all-inclusive journey: Hiram Bingham or The Private will provide you with the best travel experience.

Remember to book your train in advance, as tickets can sell out quickly, especially during high season. Make your trip to Machu Picchu an unforgettable experience!

From: $559.00 / person

IMPORTANTE

To enjoy the full Machu Picchu experience, it is essential to book in advance, especially for Circuit 2, which is the most recommended. This tour offers the most comprehensive coverage of the citadel, combining breathtaking panoramic views with the most important archaeological sites.