Cusco + Machu Picchu 3 days
3-Day Cusco and Machu Picchu Tour: A Getaway to the Inca Capital
Traveling to the ancient capital of the Inca Empire and experiencing one of the Wonders of the Modern World doesn’t require weeks of travel. If you have limited time but a strong sense of exploration, our 3-day Cusco and Machu Picchu tour is perfectly designed for you. This package optimizes every minute of your stay, taking you through the history, culture, and stunning architecture of the Peruvian Andes without any logistical hassles or complications.
During this brief but intense journey, you’ll stroll along cobblestone streets that blend imposing Inca walls with colonial mansions, feeling the unique energy of the imperial city. The following day, you’ll embark on a scenic train journey through the majestic Sacred Valley to reach the enigmatic citadel hidden among the mountains.
Prepare for a profound cultural immersion, guided by local experts who will make your visit a truly unforgettable experience.
ITINERARY
Itinerary
The following schedule details the daily activities. Times are approximate and subject to change based on your flight arrivals and official train availability.
Day 1: Arrival in Cusco and Archaeological City Tour
- Arrival at Cusco airport and transfer by private vehicle to your selected hotel. Free time to rest and acclimatize to the altitude.
- In the afternoon, the City Tour begins. Guided visit to the imposing Cathedral Basilica and the Qoricancha Temple (ancient Temple of the Sun).
- Ascent to the outskirts of the city to explore the megalithic constructions of the Sacsayhuaman fortress.
- Continue the tour to the archaeological sites of Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and the water temple of Tambomachay.
- Return to the historic center of Cusco in the evening.
Day 2: Excursion to the Citadel of Machu Picchu
- Early morning pick-up from your hotel and transfer by tourist transport to the train station in Ollantaytambo or Poroy.
- Train journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the Sacred Valley to the town of Aguas Calientes.
- Board the eco-friendly bus to ascend the winding Hiram Bingham Highway to the entrance of the historic sanctuary.
- Guided tour of approximately two and a half hours exploring the sacred sites, main plazas, and agricultural terraces of Machu Picchu.
- Descent by bus to Aguas Calientes. Free time to enjoy a leisurely lunch.
- Meet at the station to board the return train, followed by a transfer by vehicle back to your hotel in Cusco.
Day 3: Free morning and farewell to Cusco
- Enjoy a comforting breakfast at the hotel.
- This morning is free for last-minute shopping, strolling through the traditional artisan neighborhood of San Blas, or visiting the colorful San Pedro Market, depending on your flight schedule.
- At the pre-arranged time, you will be transferred privately from your hotel to the airport for your return flight.
INCLUDES
Includes
- All-inclusive airport transfers (airport – hotel – airport).
- Modern tourist transportation for all archaeological excursions mentioned in the program.
- Round-trip train tickets in tourist class.
- Eco-friendly bus tickets (up and down) for the Machu Picchu route.
- Official entrance ticket to the Machu Picchu citadel.
- Entrance fees to all attractions on the first day (Cusco Tourist Ticket, entrance to the Cathedral, and entrance to Qoricancha).
- Professional bilingual tour guide (Spanish and English) on all tours.
- Ongoing assistance and monitoring by our operations team.
Not Include
- Domestic or international flights.
- Accommodation in Cusco (can be arranged and included upon request).
- Meals (lunches and dinners) during the three-day trip.
- Entrance fees to optional hikes within the sanctuary, such as Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
- Personal expenses, extra drinks, souvenir purchases, and tips.
- Travel insurance and medical assistance.
Recommendations
Recommendations
- Book your arrival flights to Cusco for the early morning hours, allowing for adequate rest before starting your afternoon tour.
- Bring your original passport or valid official ID, as it is a strict requirement for boarding flights and trains, and for accessing the citadel.
- Pack clothing that allows you to dress in layers, as the Andean climate varies drastically from freezing mornings to quite warm middays.
- Stay well hydrated and consume local herbal teas (such as coca tea) as a preventative measure on the first day to help your body acclimatize.
- Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes, high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a small backpack to carry essentials during the excursions.
Additional
Additional Information
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate. The program is designed to be very accessible, combining efficient vehicle transfers with leisurely walks through the archaeological sites.
- Climate: Varies by region. In the city of Cusco, the climate is dry and markedly cold at night, while in Machu Picchu, a warmer and more humid subtropical cloud forest climate predominates.
- Altitude: Cusco is located at 3,399 meters above sea level, the highest point on the itinerary. Machu Picchu is at a significantly lower altitude, at 2,430 meters above sea level.
- Recommended Age: This package is ideal for travelers of all ages. Since it does not require strenuous or long hikes, it is a perfect option for family trips with children and for seniors.
- Reference Schedule: The detailed itinerary, especially train schedules and exact entry times to the attractions, will be finalized upon confirmation of official reservations.