CUSCO MACHU PICCHU TOUR 5 DAYS

At a Glance

• DURATION: 5 days and 4 nights.
• STARTING POINT: Cusco Airport.
• ENDING POINT: Cusco Airport.
• DEPARTURE DATES: Daily departures available for group and private services.
• TYPE OF TOUR: Cultural and Historical.

Highlights

• Discover the vibrant city of Cusco
• Delight in a full-day exploration of the Sacred Valley of the Incas
• Journey by train through the Urubamba Valley to the charming town of Aguas Calientes
• Enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu
• Visit the picturesque town of Aguas Calientes near Machu Picchu
• Optional ascent of Huayna Picchu Mountain

Included Activities

• Cusco City Tour: Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Cusco’s history and culture on a city tour that takes you through cobblestone streets, vibrant plazas, and ancient Incan ruins. Discover a unique blend of Andean and Spanish architecture in this dynamic city.
• Highlights of Cusco: Explore key attractions such as the Cathedral, Qoricancha Temple, and San Pedro Market. Each site offers unique insights into Incan and Spanish heritage, creating a vivid portrayal of Cusco’s past.
• Sacred Valley of the Incas: Uncover the breathtaking beauty of the Sacred Valley, the heart of the Incan Empire, with its stunning landscapes, traditional villages, and relics like Ollantaytambo and Pisac. Revel in the Andean peaks and the Urubamba River on this unforgettable journey.
• Overnight Machu Picchu Experience: Immerse yourself in the wonder of Machu Picchu on an overnight trip, providing ample time to admire this Incan marvel. Stand in awe of its architectural brilliance nestled in the Andes, where history and nature converge.

Short Itinerary for Cusco Machu Picchu Tour

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco

Upon your arrival in Cusco, a warm welcome awaits from our experienced guide. Please provide your flight details in advance for airport reception. Following this, embark on a guided city tour of Cusco. As you stroll through its lively streets, delve into the fascinating aspects of Peru’s colonial history. From the energetic Plaza de Armas to the grand ruins of Sacsayhuaman, engage in an enriching experience and soak in Cusco’s enchanting atmosphere. Our guide will be available to answer any questions you may have and offer useful tips for navigating the city.

Day 2: Sacred Valley Tour

The Sacred Valley Tour is a full day devoted to exploration and discovery. Witness the splendor of Peru’s rich tapestry of history as you traverse the ancient Incan lands. Visit revered archaeological sites, wander through traditional villages, browse local markets, learn about regional customs, and enjoy magnificent mountain vistas. Participate in the making of chicha, a traditional Peruvian beverage, and discover the enduring agricultural innovations of the Incas.

Day 3 – 4: Machu Picchu Trip

On Days 3 and 4, embark on an adventure to explore the iconic wonder of Machu Picchu. Experience the tranquility of watching the sunrise over this legendary site and revel in its astonishing beauty. After a guided tour of Machu Picchu, take the time to explore independently and capture stunning photographs. Return to Cusco to relax at your hotel with time to unwind before your journey home. This unforgettable Machu Picchu trip promises to provide a treasure trove of lasting memories.

Day 5: Departure from Cusco

As our Cusco adventure concludes on Day 5, it’s time for departure. Our team will assist with hotel check-out procedures and coordinate transportation to the airport or bus station. Farewell as your journey continues! We hope you cherished your time in Cusco and the marvelous experiences you encountered during your trip. Safe travels! Wherever your adventures lead you, we wish you all the best. ¡Adiós y buena suerte! (Goodbye and good luck!) We eagerly anticipate hearing about your future journeys!

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco & City Tour:

Welcome to the beginning of your extraordinary «Cusco Machu Picchu Tour.» As soon as you touch down in Cusco before noon, we’re ready to whisk you off to your hotel. Do you have your flight details handy? Share them with us, and we’ll ensure your transition is smooth and seamless. At 1:30 p.m., you’ll step into the heart of history on a guided city tour that wraps up at 6:30 p.m.

This immersive city tour will lead you to the majestic Cathedral right in the Main Square, the awe-inspiring Qorikancha, or Temple of the Sun of the Incas, and the formidable Inca fortress of Sacsayhuaman. You’ll also explore the intriguing Inca sites of Qenqo, Tambomachay, and Pucapucara.

Recommendations:

• After the tour, why not wander through Plaza de Armas and its charming surroundings? You’ll discover the intricate handiwork of Cusqueñian artisans.
• Savor the flavors of Peru at renowned local restaurants or unwind on the park benches of Plaza de Armas. Capturing a photo here amidst the afternoon sun is a must, even as Cusco cools down at night.
• If nightlife beckons you, the area around the square boasts vibrant nightclubs and bars bustling with both tourists and locals eager for a lively evening.

Day 2: Sacred Valley of the Incas: Cusco – Pisac – Urubamba – Ollantaytambo – Cusco:

Today, we’re ready for an unforgettable journey through the Sacred Valley. We’ll collect you from your hotel at 8:00 a.m. for a private bus ride. As we leave Cusco, we’ll pass Saqsaywaman, descending 1500 feet to meet the sacred Urubamba River and the village of Pisac. Here, you can explore a traditional market, with a delightful 45 minutes to browse and perhaps find the perfect souvenir.

Next, we ascend to the Pisac ruins, where panoramic valley views accompany your guided exploration. Over an hour, you’ll uncover the mysteries of temples, homes, altars, carvings, tunnels, caves, and the legendary Intihuatana, the «Hitching Post of the Sun.» Continuing by bus, we reach Urubamba for a delightful lunch at one of the local restaurants.

After lunch, the journey leads to Ollantaytambo, a stunning Inca site framed by sacred mountains. Spend an hour here marveling at the Temple of the Sun with its perfectly carved stones, water fountains, stairs, and terraces. Our return to Cusco includes scenic stops and a visit to the Colonial church of Chinchero, honoring the Virgin of Montserrat, before arriving back at 6:30 p.m.

Recommendations:

• Wear comfortable footwear; you’ll be climbing many steps.
• Pack a small backpack, camera, sunhat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a water bottle.
• Don’t miss tasting Pisac’s delicious “empanadas” and picking up a handcrafted souvenir.
• In Urubamba, the buffet lunch is an ideal opportunity to try the Sacred Valley’s renowned corn.

Days 3 – 4: Journey to Machu Picchu: Cusco – «Aguas Calientes» – Machu Picchu – Cusco:

After breakfast, we escort you to Ollantaytambo train station to board the morning train, winding through the enchanting Urubamba Valley to the town of «Aguas Calientes». From there, a bus will transport you to the monumental site of Machu Picchu, where you’ll explore its ancient wonders guided by a local expert. Are you ready to be captivated by the remnants of a mighty empire?

Capture the magnificence of the site through countless iconic photo opportunities. Spend the night in the quaint town of «Aguas Calientes» and perhaps visit the relaxing natural hot springs. The following day, we’ll journey back to Cusco via train, arriving at 12:30 p.m., leaving you with an afternoon to experience Cusco at your own pace.

Recommendations:

• Arrive at the train station 30 minutes before departure.
• Wear appropriate shoes, as Machu Picchu involves many stairs.
• Pack light: a small backpack, camera, sunhat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and water bottle are essential.
• Post-tour, take a moment to open your arms and soak up the magic of Machu Picchu, recharging your energy.
• Enjoy the soothing thermal baths of Aguas Calientes.

Day 5: Departure from Cusco:

As your incredible journey in Cusco ends, our team will assist with hotel check-out and ensure your transportation to the airport or bus station. We hope your visit has been as enriching as the memories you’ll carry with you. Safe travels! As you embark on new adventures, know that we wish you only the best. ¡Adiós y buena suerte! (Goodbye and good luck!) We’re eager to hear all about your next escapade!

Cusco Machu Picchu Tour Includes:

• Transportation: Transfer in/out (Airport/Hotel/Airport), Private bus for Sacred Valley Tour; bus up and down from the town of «Aguas Calientes» to Machu Picchu, round-trip train ticket expedition class from Ollantaytambo to «Aguas Calientes», transfer to your hotel.
• Entrance Fee: For the city tour, Sacred Valley tour, and Machu Picchu.
• Guide: Licensed bilingual tour guide.
• Accommodations: Based on double occupancy: 3 nights in Cusco ***Hotel, 1 night in «Aguas Calientes».
• Other: Local guide for permanent assistance.

The cost exclude:

• Meals: Lunch and dinner, you must consider a budget of US$10 to US$25 for each meal.
• Airport Taxes and tips.

PRICE OF THE TOUR

• In the following price is included 3-stars category hotel which we consider appropriated and very confortable hotel for Cusco Machu Picchu Tour
• We have other options based on the hotel, type of train; the options are adapted to all budgets and THE PRICE IS PER PERSON. We gladly will assist you, write or please call Us.

Daily Departure

Train options to Machu Picchu

1 .- The Vistadome Train:

The Vistadome Train is an excellent option for those seeking a quick and convenient way to visit Machu Picchu. This class of train offers a delightful experience, providing passengers with delicious snacks and a selection of hot and cold beverages. Recently refurbished, the Vistadome Train now boasts panoramic windows on its roof, allowing passengers to feel fully immersed in the breathtaking scenery. With unparalleled scenic views and numerous photo opportunities, this train journey promises to be unforgettable.

2 .- The Expedition Train:

The Expedition Train is specifically tailored for adventurous travelers in search of comfort and safety. In the Expedition class, the seats are adorned with Inca details, adding a touch of local and indigenous charm. Moreover, these seats offer ample space for your backpacks, ensuring your convenience during your journey to Machu Picchu. Additionally, this service offers a selection of drinks and snacks, available for purchase.

WHAT TO BRING?

For Cusco Machu Picchu Tour you’ll need to carry the following items:

Most travelers prefer to pack a small or medium-size wheeled suitcase, which is an ideal size for the storage capacity of our private vehicles. Regardless of what you bring, keep in mind that you will need to be able to carry your own luggage, handle it at airports, get in and out of your Hotel, and even walk short distances. Generally speaking, we recommend that you travel as little as possible. You will also need a backpack for activities and day trips. In terms of weight, airlines generally allow a maximum of 20kg for checked baggage.

In addition to the items and clothing you always need on a trip, here are some travel-specific packing tips:

ESSENTIAL:

• Closed shoes will help protect your feet from cuts and scrapes when walking in cities as well as in bushes/grasslands, and will also act as a protective barrier in rare cases of bites or stings.
• Sun protection – hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
• Original Passport, keep it in a dry and safe place while visiting Machu Picchu.
• Extra Cash in Soles, try to have in small coins to buy souvenirs.
• Camera for the good pictures.
• Sunscreen, insect repellent.
• Sunglasses.

RECOMMENDED:

• Electronic and/or hard copies of all important documents, plane tickets, passport, vaccination certificate, etc. and keep printed copies separate from originals. Although not valid, a copy makes it much easier to get replacements if needed.
• Water bottle. We recommend a capacity of at least 1.5 liters. The sale of bottled water contributes to a major environmental problem worldwide. In addition to bottled water, making a 1-liter plastic bottle requires 2 liters of water and 200 ml of oil. Much of it ends up in limited landfills or is released into waterways and natural settings.
• Electrical adapter plug.
• It is important to have a Personal medical kit. Your guide will carry a large kit but we recommend you carry items such as mild pain killers, electrolytes and bandaids.
• Fly spray
• You can use clock/alarm clock or phone for both

OPTIONAL:

•  Earplugs to protect against possible snoring from a roommate
• Phrasebook

VALUABLE ITEMS:

Try to avoid bringing unnecessary valuables and use your hotel safe. It’s also a good idea to buy a money belt or pouch that is easy to hide.

LAUNDRY DETERGENT.

Laundry is available in many hotels and cities on this trip, but you may have to wait for a two-night layover to ensure you pick it up on time. While hotel laundry is usually charged per item, laundromats usually charge per kilo, which is usually inexpensive (around $2 per kilo).

ESSENTIAL TRAVEL INFORMATION ABOUT 5-DAY CUSCO MACHU PICCHU TOUR

IMPORTANT NOTES ABOUT THE TRIP:

– Please provide your full name exactly as it appears on your passport at the time of booking (including other names listed on your passport) for Machu Picchu Permits and train tickets. Charges may apply for changes to details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases, you will be required to cover the cost of issuing new tickets.

– A single supplement is available if you prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Talk to your reservation agent for more information.

– 5-Day Cusco Machu Picchu Tour includes a visit to Machu Picchu. According to the visiting regulations of Machu Picchu, all visitors must follow a predetermined route within the site. This route must be followed in one direction, and once the guided tour has started, it is forbidden to leave and re-enter the site. After the guided tour is over, visitors must leave the site, and personal exploration of Machu Picchu is not allowed. See the Itinerary for more details.

– Machu Picchu permits are sold on request only. Once the deposit has been paid and passport details provided, SPT Travel & Tours will attempt to obtain a permit for you.

– Parts of your trip exceed 2,800 meters / 9,200 feet, where it is common for travelers to experience adverse health effects due to altitude, regardless of age, gender, and physical condition. Consult your doctor for professional advice on high altitude travel if you have any medical conditions.

– Most highland hotels are required to have oxygen cylinders, but you may be asked to pay extra for using oxygen for more than 5-10 minutes at a time.

ARRIVAL IN THE CITY OF CUSCO.

Welcome to the city of Cusco!

As you arrive at the airport for 5-Day Cusco Machu Picchu Tour, our team will be ready to greet you and ensure a smooth transition to your reserved hotel. To provide the best service, kindly share your flight details at least 10 days prior to your trip. Look for our representative holding a distinctive Blue SPT Travel & Tours sign upon your arrival at the Cusco airport.

THE BRIEFING.

Upon your arrival at the hotel, you will be cordially invited to a briefing about 5-Day Cusco Machu Picchu Tour. This briefing, lasting approximately half an hour, will serve as a comprehensive introduction to the tour. Guided by our knowledgeable and enthusiastic tour leader, you’ll be walked through the precise details of your upcoming adventure. They will eagerly share important information, from the day-by-day itinerary to insights about the exciting spots we will visit. This is also a prime opportunity for you to ask any questions and clarify any doubts you may have. This briefing is designed to ensure you feel completely prepared and excited about the journey ahead.

CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE IN YOUR OFFICE?

Absolutely! We understand that when embarking on an excursion, carrying around hefty luggage can hinder your experience. Hence, we offer a complimentary luggage storage service at our office. Alternatively, you may choose to keep your belongings at your hotel, as both options come at no extra cost. We recommend you bring along a compact backpack for the day’s adventure, equipped with essentials such as water, a jacket, and any other necessary items. This way, you can explore freely and comfortably, without being weighed down by unnecessary baggage.

WHAT ABOUT THE BALANCE?

The remaining balance of the 5-Day Cusco Machu Picchu Tour you’ll pay at the briefing time. We accept only in Cash and you will avoid high credit card fees in Peru, you can pay in cash at our office (US dollars or Peruvian soles). There are many ATMs in the historic center to withdraw money. You can also pay with VISA or PAYPAL online, but you will have to pay a 7% service charge, charged by VISA and PAYPAL. To pay your balance through PAYPAL, you must log in to your PAYPAL account and use our email address: sunrisetrek@gmail.com

CAN I CHANGE THE DEPARTURE DATE AFTER PURCHASING THE TICKETS?

I apologize for the inconvenience, but it is not possible to change the departure date after purchasing the tickets. According to government regulations, no changes are allowed once the tickets have been purchased. Additionally, please note that the tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable. If you decide to cancel your tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu, please be aware that the deposit is absolutely non-refundable.

DO I NEED MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT?

Yes, it is crucial that you bring your original passport for your visit to Machu Picchu and other reservations. If you need to renew or change your passport, you can provide us with the old passport details to secure your clearance. However, there will be a fee of $25 per person to update your new passport number or name. Kindly ensure to keep a copy of the old passport. Alternatively, if you do not wish to pay the fee, you must bring both passports to Peru. While you can enter Peru with your new passport, both your old and new passports are required to enter Machu Picchu or board the train. Without both passports, entry will not be granted.

ABOUT ALTITUDE SICKNESS.

Altitude sickness is a potentially life-threatening condition that can occur when traveling above 2,500m. It can affect anyone, regardless of their physical fitness level. Factors that increase the risk include a history of altitude sickness, engaging in exercise or consuming alcohol before acclimatizing to the altitude, and having respiratory health issues. Consulting a doctor before traveling is crucial to receive personalized advice. Additionally, ensure that your insurance covers emergency evacuation at high altitude and related medical expenses.

MEALS NOT INCLUDED:

For this trip, we recommend budgeting between 25 and 50 USD per day for meals. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated prices:

– Breakfast: If breakfast isn’t included, you can expect to spend around $5-$10 at a local coffee shop.

– Lunch: If you’re looking for a quick grab-and-go option, you can get away with spending as little as $5 to $10 at a local restaurant for a set menu or a sandwich and drink from a coffee shop. However, if you prefer a more touristy restaurant, the cost can range between 10 and 15 USD.

– Dinner: During dinner time, your chef will be happy to recommend local restaurants where you can safely try the area’s delicacies. Prices for entrees typically range from $12 to $25.

Please note that these prices are indicative and can vary depending on your preferences and the locations you visit. If you’re on a tight budget and enjoy local cuisine, you can find cheaper options, although quality may vary. On the other hand, if you’re looking to experience the best cuisine in renowned restaurants, prices can be similar to those in Western countries.

TIPING.

When it comes to tipping, your satisfaction with the services provided is greatly valued, although it is not obligatory. While this custom may be uncommon in your country, it holds great significance for those who will be assisting you during your Tour. Tipping serves as a motivating factor for exceptional service and is deeply rooted in the tourism industry across various SPT Travel & Tours destinations. Feel free to tip as you deem appropriate, considering the quality and duration of your visit. It is important to note that tipping is not compulsory and should only be provided in the event of exemplary service.