- Tour
4 days in Cusco and Machu Picchu
- 4 days
- Heart of the Andes
Easy
Tour
4 days
Embark on a mid-range adventure that balances comfort and affordability as you explore the most iconic sites of the Inca Empire. Begin with an immersive city tour of Cuzco: stroll the colonial streets, marvel at the massive stone walls of Sacsayhuaman and absorb the local culture. Venture into the vibrant markets and ancient fortresses of the Sacred Valley, then take the scenic train to Aguas Calientes. Rise early for a guided experience at Machu Picchu, with optional mountain hikes, before tackling the vivid hues of Rainbow Mountain on your final day. Expert guides, cozy hotels and carefully planned logistics guarantee a seamless experience, allowing you to focus on the magic of the Andes.
Overview
Highlights
- City tour of Cuzco: Discover the fusion of Inca and colonial heritage at the Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), the grand Plaza de Armas, the ornate Cuzco Cathedral and the fortress of Sacsayhuaman.
- Exploration of the Sacred Valley: Wander through the bustling artisan market of Pisac, ascend its Inca terraces and explore the lively village of Ollantaytambo, with its amazing stonework.
- Panoramic train to Aguas Calientes: Relax aboard the Andean railroads, traveling along the Urubamba River through dramatic gorges en route to the gateway city of Machu Picchu.
- Iconic Machu Picchu Tour: Guided walk through the temples, terraces and sacred areas of the citadel, with the option to summit Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for panoramic views.
- Rainbow Mountain Trek: Early morning departure for a moderate hike to witness the striking ochre, turquoise and burgundy strata of Vinicunca, followed by a picnic lunch with Andean views.
Itemized itinerary
- Day 1: Acclimatization and introduction to Cusco: transfer to the airport, check-in at the hotel and half-day city tour.
- Day 2: Full day in the Sacred Valley: market and ruins of Pisac, lunch in Urubamba, Ollantaytambo fortress and panoramic train to Aguas Calientes.
- Day 3: Machu Picchu sunrise tour-2½ hours guided exploration, optional ascent to the summit, return train and transfer to Cusco.
- Day 4: Rainbow Mountain Adventure: pre-dawn drive, 3-hour round-trip hike, return to Cusco and final descent.
Best time to visit
High season runs from April to May and September to November, when skies are at their clearest, rainfall is minimal and average daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C. The smaller crowds at key sites make for a more intimate experience, and the agricultural terraces remain lush after the recent wet season. The shoulder months offer cool mornings, comfortable hiking conditions and excellent photographic lighting. More information at: The best time to visit Cuzco.
Full Itinerary
Day 1 - City of Cusco and Acclimatization
Arrival at Alejandro Velasco Astete airport (3,400 m) between 06:00 and 18:00 hours. Our representative will welcome you and transfer you to the hotel. After a light Andean lunch, meet your guide at 14:00 for a 4-hour walking tour: explore the golden walls of Qorikancha, visit the baroque cathedral and stroll through the artisans’ alley of San Blas. At 17:00, participate in a relaxed briefing on altitude adaptation and the logistics of tomorrow’s departure. In the evening, free time to taste a local pisco sour.
Day 2 - Sacred Valley and Aguas Calientes
Departure at 07:30 by private minivan to Pisac (approx. 1 h), stop at the colorful market and 45 minute walk to the Inca citadel. At 11:30, buffet lunch in Urubamba with local trout and quinoa salad. Continue to Ollantaytambo, exploring its intricate terraces and continuous stone stairways. Board the 15:10 train (Expedition class) to Aguas Calientes, arriving around 17:00. Check into your comfortable guesthouse and relax with an optional dip in the nearby hot springs. Free dinner in town.
Day 3 - Machu Picchu Experience
Wake up at 04:30 to take the 05:00 bus to Machu Picchu (2,430 m). At 06:00, guided visit to the Intihuatana stone, the Temple of the Three Windows and the agricultural terraces. At 08:30, those with permits can ascend Huayna Picchu (2 hours round trip) or Machu Picchu Mountain (3 hours round trip) to enjoy panoramic views of the valley. Return to Aguas Calientes at 12:00 for lunch (own expense) before catching the 14:20 train back to Ollantaytambo; transfer by van will take you back to Cusco, arriving at approximately 19:00. Overnight at the same hotel in Cusco.
DÃa 4 - Rainbow Mountain y salida
Departure from Cusco by van at 04:00 to Vinicunca (~3 h by car). At 07:30, start of the moderate 7 km round trip hike (~450 m elevation gain) to the summit viewpoint (5,200 m), where swirls of minerals await you. Enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking the Andean peaks. After allowing time for photos and rest, return to the trailhead at 13:30, arriving back in Cusco at approximately 17:00. Conclude with a transfer to the hotel or airport, depending on your plans.
Inclusions
What is included
- 3 nights in selected 3★-4★ hotels (double rooms)
- All private ground transportation (airport transfers, excursions, Rainbow Mountain)
- Train tickets (round trip “Expedition” class) and shuttle buses to Machu Picchu
- Professional English/Spanish guides for all excursions
- Entrance fees: Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain
- Daily buffet breakfasts; lunches on days 2 (Sacred Valley) and 4 (Rainbow Mountain)
- Pre-excursion briefing and local assistance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
What is not included
- International/domestic flights to/from Cusco
- Meals not specified above (own choice in local restaurants)
- Optional entrance fees to the summit of Machu Picchu (Huayna Picchu/Machu Picchu Mountain)
- Travel insurance, tips and personal expenses
Inclusions on a daily basis
- Day 1: Hotel; half day city tour (entrance fees, guide, transportation)
- Day 2: Private van, guide, entrance fees to Pisac and Ollantaytambo, lunch, train ticket, accommodation in Aguas Calientes.
- Day 3: Pre-dawn bus and train logistics, guide and entrance to Machu Picchu, transfers back to Cusco
- Day 4: Early morning van transfer, guide and entrance to Rainbow Mountain, picnic lunch, return to Cusco.
Prices & Upgrades
From 850 USD per person, double occupancy and with a minimum group size of 4 people. Prices are for high season (June-August) and vacation travel may incur a 10-15% surcharge.
Additional items & upgrades
- Upgrade to private guide: + USD 200 total (instead of joining a small group)
- Train class upgrade to Vistadome: + USD 100 per person (panoramic windows, gourmet snacks)
- Huayna Picchu permit: USD 75 (subject to availability; book 3-4 months in advance) – Machu Picchu mountain permit: USD 75 (slightly longer hike, less crowds)
- Single room supplement: + USD 150 total
- Extra night in Aguas Calientes: from USD 60 per room
Packing list
To travel
- Valid passport and photocopies
- Layered clothing: moisture-wicking under layers, fleece/jersey, waterproof layer
- Sturdy shoes or lightweight hiking boots
- Sun protection: Sunscreen SPF 50, wide-brimmed hat, UV sunglasses
- Reusable water bottle (we refill)
- Small backpack (20-25 L) with rain cover
- Toiletries, medication, altitude pills (if prescribed)
For your backpack
- Waterproof poncho
- Snacks (energy bars, dried fruits)
- First aid kit (band-aids, painkillers, compresses for blisters)
- Camera/phone with spare batteries or external battery
- Cash in soles for small purchases
Travel Info
Information
Upon arrival, participate in a 30-minute orientation that includes emergency contacts, local customs, altitude tips and detailed daily schedules.
Machu Picchu Entrance Hours
There are ten daily entrance slots, from 06:00 to 15:00; the guided tour is usually reserved for the earliest slot to make the most of the time free of crowds.
Senderismo Huayna Picchu o montaña Machu Picchu
Permits are limited to 400 visitors per day for Huayna Picchu (divided into two time slots) and 800 for Machu Picchu Mountain. It is essential to book in advance (3-4 months in advance).
Health
Acute mountain sickness is possible above 3,000m. Drink 3 l of water per day, avoid alcohol in the first 24 h and consider drinking coca tea or consult a doctor about acetazolamide.
Strikes
Occasional transportation or public sector strikes may affect schedules. Our local office monitors alerts and will switch to private vehicles or adjust the agenda as needed.
Lost and found
If you misplace objects somewhere, please notify your guide immediately; we coordinate with the park offices and local authorities to recover your belongings.
Tips
Recommended guidelines: Guides 5-10 USD per day per group; drivers 3-5 USD per day per group; hotel staff 1-2 USD per suitcase.
Travel insurance
All travelers must have full coverage including medical evacuation, trip cancellation and baggage loss.
Weather
Daytime highs in Cuzco range from 18°C to 22°C, and at night drop to near freezing. Rain is most likely between January and March; always wear a raincoat.
More information at: The best time to visit Cuzco.
Altitud
Key elevations: Cusco 3,400 m; Pisac 3,300 m; Ollantaytambo 2,800 m; Machu Picchu 2,430 m; Vinicunca 5,200 m.
How to avoid altitude sickness?
Ascend gradually, rest the first day, hydrate with bottled water or electrolyte packets, eat light meals and drink coca tea. If you have suffered in the past, consult a physician about prophylactic medication.
How to get to Cusco?
Direct flights connect Lima (1 h 20 m), Arequipa, La Paz and Quito with Cuzco’s Alejandro Velasco Astete airport. Overland options include overnight buses from Puno and Arequipa (8-10 h), which offer an economical scenic route.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why choose Visit Machu Picchu?
At Visit Machu Picchu (VMP), we take great pride in being a 100% local company, with a team of knowledgeable and experienced locals who are passionate about sharing the beauty of our country with visitors from all over the world. Our commitment to our community and the people who call it home is at the heart of everything we do. When you choose to travel with us, you’re not just experiencing the best of what our country has to offer, you’re also helping to support our local economy and provide job opportunities for the people in our community.
We believe that travel is about more than just sightseeing – it’s about creating meaningful connections with the places and people we encounter along the way. As a locally-owned and operated company, we have deep roots in our community and are committed to responsible and sustainable tourism that gives back as much to our community as it does to our clients. By choosing to travel with Visit Machu Picchu, you’re not just getting a great travel experience – you’re also making a positive impact on the people and places you visit.
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