LIMA, CUSCO, INCA TRAIL, MACHU PICCHU, PUNO 9 DAYS

Duration

9 Days

Type of tour

Historico

Difficulty

Moderado

Best Time

This 9-day tour of Peru offers an unforgettable experience, exploring unique historical and natural destinations. It has been designed to make the most of each day, providing authentic experiences and ensuring the comfort of travelers of all ages, combining culture, nature, and adventure in a single journey. We will begin in Lima, the “City of Kings,” and then travel to Cusco, the ancient Inca capital, where we will explore the Sacred Valley. From there, we will experience the thrill of trekking the legendary Inca Trail, one of the most famous trekking routes in the world, leading us to the imposing citadel of Machu Picchu, the jewel of the Inca Empire and a wonder of the world. Afterwards, we will head to Puno to visit archaeological sites and sail on the majestic Lake Titicaca, getting up close to its floating islands and interacting with living cultures such as the Uros and Taquile. Throughout the journey, you will enjoy the biodiversity, history, and cultural richness that make Peru an exceptional destination, with a carefully planned itinerary that balances exploration, rest, and unique experiences at every stage of the trip.

Day 1: Arrival in Lima – City Tour

Reception at the airport and private transfer to the hotel.
Free time to rest and have lunch.
2:00 PM: Start of the panoramic tour: Huaca Pucllana, Paseo de la República, Plaza San Martín, Plaza Mayor, and Convent of San Francisco (entrance to catacombs).
Approx. 6:00 PM: Return to the hotel.
Overnight in Lima.

Day 2: Flight Lima – Cusco and Afternoon City Tour

Transfer to the airport and flight to Cusco (approx. 1 hour).
Reception, transfer to the hotel, and welcome drink (coca tea).
1:30 PM: Start of the city tour in Cusco: Qoricancha, Plaza de Armas, San Pedro Market, colonial streets, Sacsayhuamán, and Qenqo.
6:00 PM: Return to the hotel.
Overnight in Cusco.

Day 3: Cusco – Sacred Valley – Ollantaytambo

7:30 AM: Departure to the Sacred Valley.
Stop at the artisanal market and archaeological complex of Pisaq.
Buffet lunch in Urubamba.
Afternoon visit to the Ollantaytambo fortress.
Overnight in Ollantaytambo.

Day 4: Short Inca Trail – Wiñaywayna – Aguas Calientes

7:20 AM: Train to Km. 104 and start of the Short Inca Trail.
Visit Chachabamba and Choquesuysuy.
Ascent to Wiñaywayna (8,694 ft / 2,650 m), with a box lunch along the route.
Hike to Inti Punku (Sun Gate) and first view of Machu Picchu.
Descent by bus to Aguas Calientes.
Dinner at a local restaurant and overnight in Aguas Calientes.

Day 5: Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco

Breakfast at the hotel.
Bus ascent to Machu Picchu.
Approx. 3-hour guided tour of the citadel. Free time to explore on your own.
Optional: ascent to Huayna Picchu (additional cost).
Free lunch in Aguas Calientes.
Train return to Ollantaytambo and private transfer to Cusco.
Overnight in Cusco.

Day 6: Rainbow Mountain – Full Day

5:00 AM: Departure to Cusipata and breakfast along the way.
Start of the hike from Phullawasipata (15,256 ft / 4,650 m).
1 hour 30 min ascent to the summit of Rainbow Mountain (16,732 ft / 5,100 m).
Free time for photos and exploration.
Descent and lunch in Cusipata.
Approx. 4:00 PM: Return to Cusco.
Overnight in Cusco.

Day 7: Cusco – Puno (Route of the Sun)

Departure by tourist bus to Puno.
Guided stops at: Andahuaylillas, Raqchi, Abra La Raya (14,222 ft / 4,335 m), and Pukará Lithic Museum.
Buffet lunch in Sicuani.
Approx. 5:00 PM: Arrival in Puno and transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Puno.

Day 8: Lake Titicaca – Uros and Taquile

7:00 AM: Transfer to the port of Puno.
Boat trip to the floating islands of the Uros.
Continue to Taquile Island, famous for its textile tradition.
Typical lunch included.
Return to Puno in the afternoon and transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Puno.

Day 9: Sillustani Chullpas – Juliaca Flight – Lima

Breakfast at the hotel.
Transfer to the Sillustani archaeological complex to explore the famous funerary towers.
Continue to Juliaca airport (approx. 1 hour).
Flight Juliaca – Lima and international connection.
End of services.

DAY 01: ARRIVAL IN LIMA – CITY TOUR

Reception at Lima International Airport and private transfer to the hotel. After check-in, free time to rest and have lunch. At 2:00 PM, start of the city tour of Lima, also known as the “City of Kings.” The tour includes panoramic views of Huaca Pucllana, followed by a visit to the historic center: Paseo de la República, Plaza San Martín, and Plaza Mayor. The Convent of San Francisco will also be visited, known for its catacombs and colonial architecture. The tour concludes with return to the hotel around 6:00 PM. Overnight in Lima

DAY 02: LIMA – CUSCO – CITY TOUR

Transfer to the airport for the flight to Cusco (approx. 1 hour). Reception at Cusco Airport and transfer to the hotel. Upon arrival, a hot coca drink will be offered as a welcome. Free time to rest and have lunch. At 1:30 PM, start of the city tour in Cusco, including visits to the Temple of the Sun (Qoricancha), Plaza de Armas, San Pedro Market, colonial streets, and nearby archaeological sites: Sacsayhuamán and Qenqo. Return to the hotel at 6:00 PM. Overnight in Cusco

DAY 03: CUSCO – SACRED VALLEY – OLLANTAYTAMBO

Departure at 7:30 AM to the Sacred Valley. The first stop is the artisanal market and the archaeological complex of Pisaq. Buffet lunch in Urubamba. In the afternoon, visit the Ollantaytambo fortress and archaeological site. Transfer to the hotel in Ollantaytambo. Overnight in Ollantaytambo

DAY 04: SHORT INCA TRAIL – WIÑAYWAYNA – MACHU PICCHU TOWN

Breakfast at the hotel. At 7:20 AM, train departure to Km 104 to begin the Short Inca Trail hike. After the entry checkpoint, visit the archaeological sites of Chachabamba and Choquesuysuy. Begin the ascent to Wiñaywayna, passing orchids, waterfalls, and views of the Sacred Valley. Arrival at Wiñaywayna (2,650 m / 8,694 ft) for a box lunch. Continue the hike to Inti Punku (Sun Gate), where the first panoramic view of Machu Picchu is revealed. Descent by bus to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town) with dinner included at a local restaurant. Overnight in Aguas Calientes

DAY 05: MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

Breakfast at the hotel. At the scheduled time, bus transfer to Machu Picchu. Guided tour of approximately 3 hours through the main areas of the citadel. Free time afterwards. Optional hike to Huayna Picchu (additional cost). Descent to Aguas Calientes and lunch on your own. Afternoon train back to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, private transfer to Cusco. Overnight in Cusco

DAY 06: RAINBOW MOUNTAIN

Departure at 5:00 AM to the Cusipata community (approx. 2-hour drive). Breakfast en route. Continue to the starting point of the hike (Phullawasipata – 4,650 m / 15,256 ft). Approx. 1 hour 30 min ascent to the summit of Rainbow Mountain (5,100 m / 16,732 ft). Time for photos and landscape observation. Descent and transfer for lunch. Optional visit to local homes. Return to Cusco, estimated arrival at 4:00 PM. Overnight in Cusco

DAY 07: CUSCO – PUNO (ROUTE OF THE SUN)

Transfer to the station to board the tourist bus to Puno. The route includes guided visits to Andahuaylillas, Raqchi, La Raya Pass (4,335 m / 14,222 ft), and the Pukara Lithic Museum. Buffet lunch in Sicuani. Arrival in Puno and transfer to the hotel. Overnight in Puno

DAY 08: LAKE TITICACA – UROS AND TAQUILE

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the port of Puno for boarding the boat to the floating islands of the Uros. Continue to Taquile Island, known for its textile tradition and living culture. Typical lunch included. Return by boat to Puno with transfer to the hotel or city center according to the passenger’s preference. Overnight in Puno

DAY 09: JULIACA – LIMA – RETURN

Breakfast at the hotel. At the coordinated time, private transfer to Juliaca Airport (approx. 1-hour drive). Flight to Lima. Depending on the time of your international flight, you may remain at the airport or explore Lima on your own before boarding your flight back home. End of services

¿Qué incluye?

Pick up from the airport in Lima and transfer to the hotel (private transportation).
Lima City Tour (private transportation, guide, entrance fees).
Airport-hotel-airport transfers in Cusco (private transportation).
Cusco City Tour (private transportation, guide, entrance fees).
Excursion to the Sacred Valley (private transportation, guide, entrance fees).
2-day Inca Trail excursion.
Train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Km. 104.
Entrance to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
Professional bilingual guide (English – Spanish).
Meals (1 breakfast, 1 lunch, 1 dinner).
Bus ticket Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes (round trip).
Return train ticket Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo.
Transportation Ollantaytambo – Cusco.
First aid kit, oxygen tank.
Rainbow Mountain excursion (transportation, guide, entrance fees, meals, trekking poles).
Tourist bus from Cusco to Puno (40-passenger bus, guide, entrance fees, buffet lunch).
Lake Titicaca tour: Uros and Taquile (20-passenger boat, guide, entrance fees, lunch).
Transfer to Juliaca airport.
1 night hotel accommodation in Lima.
1 night hotel accommodation in Ollantaytambo.
1 night hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes.
3 nights hotel accommodation in Cusco.
2 nights hotel accommodation in Puno.
24/7 assistance.

No incluye

International air tickets (round trip to country of origin).
Domestic flights Lima – Cusco / Juliaca – Lima.
Meals (lunches and dinners not mentioned in the itinerary).
Buffet lunch at Machu Picchu (optional, $27 USD per person).
Optional entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain ($70 USD per person).

Recomendaciones

Bring your original passport (with an expiration date of no less than 7 months).
Wear sneakers or light shoes or tennis shoes.
Water bottle.
Drink plenty of fluids on your excursions.
Bring a raincoat (long poncho) during the rainy season.
Long-sleeved shirts.
Long pants.
Insect repellent.
Sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat for sunny days.
Sunglasses, plastic bags.
Medicine and/or personal items (contact lens solution).
A backpack or lightweight bag.
Camera or video camera and film.
Have checks and small bills or coins in soles or dollars on hand.
Swimwear for the hot springs (optional)

Recommendations and suggestions for flights

International Flights

Arrival in Peru (Day 1): We recommend arriving in Lima before 1:00 p.m., as a city tour of Lima is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on the same day.
Return to your country (Day 9): For your international return flight, we recommend choosing an afternoon or evening departure from Lima, which will allow you to enjoy the morning in Cusco and make your connecting flight from Cusco to Lima without any setbacks.

Domestic Flights

Lima – Cusco (Day 2): We recommend taking a morning flight so that you arrive in Cusco before noon. This is important, as the city tour in Cusco begins at 1:00 p.m.
Juliaca – Lima (Day 9): This flight can be scheduled according to your international flight schedule. Ideally, it should be after noon to avoid tight connections.

Note: If you wish, we can also assist you with domestic flights. The price will vary according to the specific date of your trip.

HOW MUCH DOES THE PACKAGE COST?

Honestly, visiting Lima, Cusco, the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, and Puno is worth much more than it costs. 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 trip is an opportunity to have a truly memorable experience, one that stays with you forever.

We have seasonal offers and last-minute promotions that fit your schedule and availability. Want to stay in a different hotel? Do you have something special in mind? Write to us and we will create a personalized proposal with no obligation.

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

BOOK IN ADVANCE, SAVE, AND ENJOY MORE

Special discount guaranteed when booking at least 3 months in advance. Greater availability to choose trains and schedules that truly suit you. Better rates on selected accommodations before high season. Possibility to reschedule dates without penalties (conditions apply) because we know flights can change.

SPECIAL DISCOUNTS FOR GROUPS

If you are organizing a group trip, whether with family, friends, or coworkers, Real Cusco Tour offers real benefits specially designed for groups of more than 6 people. Enjoy a more comfortable, organized, and economical experience with these exclusive benefits:

Special rates per person: The more people, the better the price. Access group discounts from 5% up to 15% depending on the chosen package, without losing quality of service.
Flexible schedules: Ability to adjust departure times, stops, or activities according to the group’s dynamics.
Exclusive transport and guide for your group: You will have your own tourist vehicle and a professional guide dedicated only to your group, so you can enjoy the tour at your own pace with full attention.

UPDATED PRICES WITH DIFFERENT OPTIONS SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY

TOURIST CATEGORY (BASIC)	HOTEL LIMA	HOTEL CUSCO	HOTEL OLLANTAYTAMBO	HOTEL MACHUPICCHU	HOTEL PUNO	PRICES
Expedition o The Voyager + Hotel 2★	Ibis Styles	Hotel Usgar	Hotel Samanapaq	Hotel Pisonay	Conde de Lemos	1099.00 USD
Expedition o The Voyager + Hotel 3★	Holliday Inn	Monasterio San Pedro	Hotel Pakaritampu	Hotel Hatun Inti Clasic	Casona Plaza	1299.00 USD
Expedition o The Voyager + Hotel 4★	Hotel Hilton	Costa Del Sol	Hotel El Albergue Ollantaytambo	Hotel Tierra Viva	Taypikala Lago	1539.00 USD
EXECUTIVE/PANORAMIC (INT.	HOTEL LIMA	HOTEL CUSCO	HOTEL OLLANTAYTAMBO	HOTEL MACHUPICCHU	HOTEL PUNO	PRICES
Vistadome o The 360° + Hotel 2★	Ibis Styles	Hotel Usgar	Hotel Samanapaq	Hotel Pisonay	Conde de Lemos	1149.00 USD
Vistadome o The 360° + Hotel 3★	Holliday Inn	Monasterio San Pedro	Hotel Pakaritampu	Hotel Hatun Inti Clasic	Casona Plaza	1349.00 USD
Vistadome o The 360° + Hotel 4★	Hotel Hilton	Costa Del Sol	Hotel El Albergue Ollantaytambo	Hotel Tierra Viva	Taypikala Lago	1589.00 USD
Vistadome Observatory + Hotel 2★	Ibis Styles	Hotel Usgar	Hotel Samanapaq	Hotel Pisonay	Conde de Lemos	1189.00 USD
Vistadome Observatory + Hotel 3★	Holliday Inn	Monasterio San Pedro	Hotel Pakaritampu	Hotel Hatun Inti Clasic	Casona Plaza	1389.00 USD
Vistadome Observatory + Hotel 4★	Hotel Hilton	Costa Del Sol	Hotel El Albergue Ollantaytambo	Hotel Tierra Viva	Taypikala Lago	1629.00 USD

Preguntas frecuentes

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins in the city of Lima and ends in Juliaca, from where you will take your return flight to Lima.
Is the Lima – Cusco flight included?
It depends on the package purchased. Check before booking to confirm.
Is it necessary to acclimate before the Inca Trail or Rainbow Mountain?
Yes, it is recommended to spend at least a couple of days in Cusco to adapt to the altitude and prevent altitude sickness.
What is the best time to take this tour?
The dry season, from April to November, is the most recommended for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
What level of difficulty does the 1-day Inca Trail (Km 104) have?
It is a moderately difficult hike with uphill sections. Basic physical fitness and trekking shoes are recommended.
What do I need to enter Machu Picchu?
A valid passport or national ID and the entrance ticket, which must be reserved in advance.
Can I climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
Yes, but spots are limited and require prior reservation along with the Machu Picchu entrance ticket.
Is lunch included in all excursions?
No. It is included in some tours (Sacred Valley, Inca Trail, Lake Titicaca). In others, the guide will recommend trusted places to eat.
Is it very cold in Cusco and Puno?
Yes, especially at night. It is recommended to bring warm clothing as well as light clothes for the day.
What altitude does Rainbow Mountain reach?
The main viewpoint is over 5,000 meters (16,400 ft) above sea level, so it is important to walk slowly and stay hydrated.
Does the Lake Titicaca tour include a totora reed boat ride?
No, this service is optional and is paid directly to the Uros community members.
Is the tour suitable for children or older adults?
Yes, but with precautions, especially for high-altitude hikes (Inca Trail and Rainbow Mountain).
Do I need vaccinations or any special requirements to travel?
No, just carry your identification document or passport.
How far in advance should I book this tour?
At least 1 to 2 months in advance, especially during high season (May to September).

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 ideal for those who wish 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 ascent takes approximately 3 hours (round trip).
Route 1-B: Visit the Guardian’s House and the upper sector of Machu Picchu for spectacular photos. It is a short route of about 40 minutes.
Route 1-C: Hike to Intipunku (Sun Gate), a strategic point where Inca Trail hikers get their first view of the citadel.
Route 1-D: Panoramic tour that includes a visit to the Inca Bridge, a fascinating structure located on the mountainside.

CIRCUIT 2: FULL EXPLORATION (RECOMMENDED AND MOST POPULAR)

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

Route 2-A (Classic): Visit the most important sites, 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 ROUTE (HISTORY AND EXCLUSIVITY)

This circuit is designed for those who wish to explore the less-traveled 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, from where you can enjoy breathtaking views and find 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. Does not include the classic views of the citadel.
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 make a reservation in advance. This is the most recommended circuit due to its wide 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 is an important part of your experience. With options ranging from comfortable budget alternatives to exclusive journeys with luxury services, you can choose the type of train that best suits your needs and budget.

TRAIN OPTIONS: CHOOSE ACCORDING TO YOUR STYLE AND BUDGET

Economic Trains: Comfort and Affordability

If you are looking for an affordable option without sacrificing comfort, these are ideal for you:

Expedition (PeruRail)

Travel comfortably without going over budget.
Panoramic windows to enjoy the scenery.
Snack and beverage options onboard.

The Voyager (Inca Rail)

Comfortable trip at an affordable price.
Guaranteed comfort with ergonomic seats.
Snack and beverage options during the journey.
Perfect for those seeking a good balance between quality and price.

Panoramic Trains: Live the Experience with Spectacular Views

If what matters most to you is enjoying the landscape in all its splendor, these options offer you a truly unmatched visual experience:

Vistadome (PeruRail)

Panoramic windows throughout the carriage, including the roof.
Snack and beverage service to make your trip more pleasant.
Cultural presentations onboard for a more enriching experience.

Vistadome Observatory (PeruRail)

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

The 360° (Inca Rail)

Wide windows for impressive views of the Andean landscape.
Snack service and interactive audio guide during the journey.
Ideal for those who enjoy uninterrupted scenery, combining natural beauty with an extra touch of comfort.

Luxury Trains: Enjoy the Journey with Full Comfort and Exclusivity

If you are looking for a luxury experience, where every detail is carefully designed to make your trip unforgettable, these options are especially for you:

Hiram Bingham (PeruRail)

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

First Class (Inca Rail)

Spacious and comfortable seats, ideal for relaxing during your trip.
Welcome cocktail and gourmet lunch with delicious options.
Access to an observatory car 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 and private atmosphere.
The most exclusive journey for those seeking an exceptional experience.
Ideal for those who want maximum comfort, privacy, and luxury during their trip.

From Economic to Luxury: Which Train to Choose for Your Visit to Machu Picchu? If your goal is a budget trip without losing comfort: Expedition or The Voyager are perfect for you. If you want to enjoy the landscape with panoramic views and a more comfortable experience: Vistadome, Vistadome Observatory, or The 360° are the best options. If you are looking for an all-inclusive luxury trip: Hiram Bingham or The Private will provide you with the finest 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!.

$1,099.00 / 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.