The tour begins in Cusco, the historical capital of the Incan Empire, where you explore colonial architecture interwoven with Incan stonework. The city demonstrates the layering of Spanish colonial construction over Incan foundations, creating a unique architectural landscape. Your initial Cusco experience includes visits to significant archeological sites surrounding the city, such as Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucará, and Tambomachay. These sites reveal Incan engineering sophistication and religious practices. The combination of urban exploration and nearby archeological sites provides comprehensive understanding of Incan civilization before you proceed to other locations.

Your second day encompasses a full exploration of the Sacred Valley, the agricultural heartland that sustained Incan civilization. You visit multiple significant sites including Pisac Inca Ruins, featuring an impressive cemetery with more than 2,000 tombs and engineered agricultural terraces. You explore Moray, an innovative experimental agricultural site where Incan engineers tested optimal growing conditions. You observe the unique salt extraction sites at Maras Salineras, where pink-colored salt continues to be harvested using pre-Incan methods. Your day concludes in Ollantaytambo, a colonial town with intact Incan structures and massive terraces demonstrating Incan architectural capability. An evening train journey transports you to Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu.

The third day of your tour features the iconic Machu Picchu Inca City experience. You ascend via private bus to this UNESCO World Heritage Site and New 7 Wonder of the World at sunrise, providing the optimal perspective of the citadel within its mountain setting. Your expert guide conducts a 2-hour private tour interpreting the site’s three functional sectors (agricultural, residential, and religious) and explaining the major structures you observe. Following your guided tour, you have independent exploration time before descending for lunch and boarding the Vistadome train for your return journey to Cusco.

Your fourth day transitions to a distinct region and travel experience: the Belmond Andean Explorer train journey from Cusco to Puno. This luxury train features an open-air observatory car, fine dining, and private cabin accommodations. The journey provides panoramic views of high Andean landscapes while traveling at altitude across varied terrain. The train represents the most comfortable method of traversing this challenging geography while experiencing authentic Andean cultures visible from the train route. Overnight sleeping accommodations aboard the train eliminate the need for a hotel, making this a logistically efficient transition between regions.

Your fifth day is dedicated to Lake Titicaca and its unique island communities. You visit the Uros Floating Islands, man-made constructions created entirely from totora reeds, where residents continue traditional lifestyles adapted to the lake environment. You travel to Taquile Island, where residents speak Aymara language and maintain cultural practices reflecting Incan heritage. These island visits provide insight into contemporary indigenous cultures and lifestyles distinct from highland communities. Your experience encompasses cultural briefings, traditional dance performances, artisanal craft displays, and a traditional meal, providing multi-sensory engagement with local culture.

Throughout your entire 6-day tour, MACHU PICCHU TEAM coordinates all logistics, provides expert guides fluent in English and Spanish, arranges private transportation with trained drivers, and maintains detailed oversight of your experience. The program accommodates participants seeking luxury comfort while experiencing authentic cultural sites. Your accommodation options range from 3-star to 4-star hotels, and your train journey features private cabin accommodations with premium service standards. The combination of guided tour expertise, comfortable accommodation, and efficient logistics creates a balanced experience accessible to travelers of varying ages and fitness levels.

Trip details

• Total Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights
• Total Destination Coverage: Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Puno, Lake Titicaca
• Maximum Altitude: 4,400 meters above sea level
• Group Size: Up to 8 persons
• Type of Service: Group with private transportation options available
• Transportation: Private vehicle, bus, train (Vistadome service and Belmond Andean Explorer)
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Hotel Accommodations: 3-star or 4-star hotels as selected; 1 night on luxury train
• Guides: Professional English-speaking guides, local experts
• Meals Included: Breakfast daily; lunch and dinner as specified per itinerary
• Starting Requirements: Minimum 2 participants; tours begin Mondays only due to Belmond train schedule (Thursday departure)
• Entrance Fees: All major site entrances included
• Train Services: Expedition train Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes; Vistadome train return; Belmond Andean Explorer luxury overnight train

Trip Summary

Day 1: Arrival to Cusco, City Tour & Archaeological Ruins

• Morning Arrival — Airport pickup and transfer to hotel
• Hotel Check-in — Morning free for rest and acclimatization
• 01:00 p.m. — Pickup from hotel for afternoon city tour
• 01:30 p.m. — Begin exploration of Imperial Cusco City
• 02:00 p.m. — Visit Santo Domingo Convent and Temple of the Sun (Koricancha)
• 02:30 p.m. — Explore Ancient Inca Palace and main worship center
• 03:30 p.m. — Visit Sacsayhuaman archeological site
• 04:30 p.m. — Visit Qenqo, Puca Pucará, and Tambomachay
• 06:00 p.m. — Return to hotel
• Accommodation: 3-star or 4-star hotel in Cusco

Day 2: Sacred Valley – Pisac to Ollantaytambo

• 07:30 a.m. — Pickup from Cusco hotel in private transportation
• 08:00 a.m. — Stop at Mirador of Taray for valley viewpoint
• 09:00 a.m. — Arrival at Pisac Inca Ruins archeological site
• 11:00 a.m. — Explore cemetery, terraces, tunnels, and religious areas
• 11:30 a.m. — Visit colorful market of Pisac (approximately 20 minutes)
• 12:00 p.m. — Drive to Urubamba for lunch
• 01:00 p.m. — Lunch
• 02:00 p.m. — Continue to Moray archeological site
• 03:00 p.m. — Explore Moray’s innovative terraced basin
• 03:45 p.m. — Continue to colonial town of Maras
• 04:15 p.m. — View pre-Inca salt mines (Maras Salineras)
• 05:00 p.m. — Continue to Ollantaytambo
• 05:30 p.m. — Guided exploration of Ollantaytambo Inca village and structures
• 06:30 p.m. — Dinner
• 07:00 p.m. — Depart Ollantaytambo by train
• 08:45 p.m. — Arrival in Aguas Calientes
• Accommodation: 3-star or 4-star hotel in Aguas Calientes

Day 3: Machu Picchu & Return Train to Cusco

• Early morning — Breakfast at hotel
• Sunrise Time — Private bus departure to Machu Picchu Inca City
• Sunrise — Arrival at Machu Picchu; witness sunrise over the site
• Sunrise to 09:30 a.m. — Private guided tour (approximately 2 hours)
• 09:30 a.m. to 02:55 p.m. — Independent exploration time (optional activities available)
• 02:55 p.m. — Private bus descent to Aguas Calientes
• 03:30 p.m. — Arrival in Aguas Calientes; lunch (not included)
• 03:30 p.m. to 02:55 p.m. — Optional shopping, museum visit, or thermal springs
• 02:55 p.m. — Train departure (Vistadome service) from Aguas Calientes
• Arrival times vary — Between 08:00 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. at Cusco hotel depending on train time
• Accommodation: 3-star or 4-star hotel in Cusco

Day 4: Cusco to Puno by Belmond Andean Explorer Train

• 10:00 a.m. — Pickup from hotel in Cusco
• 10:30 a.m. — Arrival at train station
• 11:00 a.m. — Boarding of Belmond Andean Explorer luxury train
• 11:00 a.m. onwards — Observation of Andean landscapes from open-air observatory car
• During day — Lunch service aboard train
• Evening — Dinner service aboard train
• Overnight — Sleep in private cabin aboard train
• 07:00 a.m. — Expected arrival in Puno (Day 5)
• Accommodation: Private cabin on Belmond Andean Explorer train

Day 5: Full Day Lake Titicaca (Uros Floating Islands & Taquile Island)

• 06:00 a.m. — Breakfast service on train
• 07:00 a.m. — Arrival in Puno; transfer to hotel
• 08:30 a.m. — Pickup from hotel; transfer to Port of Puno
• 09:00 a.m. — Departure by boat for Uros Floating Islands
• 09:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. — Exploration of Uros Floating Islands
• 11:00 a.m. — Departure by boat toward Taquile Island
• 12:30 p.m. to 04:00 p.m. — Visit to Taquile Island (cultural briefing, traditional dances, craft displays, lunch)
• 04:00 p.m. — Departure by boat back to Puno
• 06:00 p.m. — Arrival at Port of Puno; transfer to hotel
• Accommodation: 3-star or 4-star hotel in Puno

Day 6: Departure from Puno

• Morning — Breakfast at hotel
• Late morning or afternoon — Transfer to Juliaca airport (approximately 1.5 hours, separate cost: $60 per group)
• Departure — Flight to Lima or other destinations

Included

Not Included

Pricing Structure

Base Tour Prices

Your tour pricing varies depending on your accommodation selection. All prices are per person and require a minimum of 2 participants.

Without Hotels:

• $687 USD per person – This option includes all tour components, meals, and transportation except hotel accommodations. You arrange your own hotels or use accommodations you have already booked.

With 3-Star Hotels:

• $887 USD per person – This option includes all tour components, meals, transportation, and 4 nights accommodation at 3-star hotels (Waman Qorikancha or Maytaq Wasin in Cusco; Ferré Hotel in Aguas Calientes; Casa Andina standard or Tierra Viva in Puno).

With 4-Star Hotels:

• $1,087 USD per person – This option includes all tour components, meals, transportation, and 4 nights accommodation at 4-star hotels (Hotel Costa del Sol Ramada, Casa Andina Private Collection, or Novotel in Cusco; El Mapi or Tierra Viva Machu Picchu in Aguas Calientes; Casa Andina Premium Puno or Sonesta Hotel Puno).

Belmond Andean Explorer Train (Additional Cost)

The Belmond Andean Explorer train cost is separate from your base tour package price. Train costs vary depending on cabin type:

• Twin Beds Cabin (double occupancy) – Request current pricing from MACHU PICCHU TEAM
• Junior Double Bed Cabin (double occupancy) – Request current pricing from MACHU PICCHU TEAM
• Deluxe Double Bed Cabin (double occupancy) – Request current pricing from MACHU PICCHU TEAM

Contact MACHU PICCHU TEAM for most updated pricing and availability.

Private Service Option

• Private Service: An additional $100 USD per person is charged if you desire exclusive group arrangement (private guide and transportation separate from other groups).

Student Discounts

Age-Based Discounts:

• Ages 18 to 25 with Student Card – Discount of $30 USD per person. You must provide a copy of your valid student identification card at booking. The card should display your university/educational institution name, your photograph, and card expiration date valid for the current academic year.
• Ages 11 to 17 (Under 18) – Discount of $30 USD per person. No student documentation required, but you must send a copy of your passport at booking to verify age.
• Ages 2 to 11 (Children) – Discount of $40 USD per person. Send a copy of your passport at booking to verify age.
• Ages 0 to 2 – Free (no cost).

Hotel Single Supplement

• 3-Star Hotel Single Supplement – $60 USD per night for solo travelers preferring private rooms.
• 4-Star Hotel Single Supplement – Additional cost varies by hotel; request specific pricing from MACHU PICCHU TEAM.

Upgrades and Optional Services

• Upgrade to 5-Star Hotels – Available upon request for additional cost. Contact MACHU PICCHU TEAM for pricing.

Climate and Weather Preparation

Understanding the Climate

Your tour traverses regions at varying elevations, each with distinct climate characteristics. Cusco (3,350 meters) experiences a temperate highland climate with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 15 to 20 degrees Celsius and nighttime temperatures dropping to approximately 5 degrees Celsius. The Sacred Valley sits at slightly lower elevations, with somewhat warmer daytime temperatures but similarly cold nights.

Machu Picchu, at 2,400 meters, experiences warmer daytime temperatures (approximately 15-25 degrees Celsius) and milder nighttime temperatures (approximately 10 degrees Celsius). Lake Titicaca, at 3,812 meters elevation, experiences cold nights (approximately 5 degrees Celsius) but relatively mild daytime temperatures.

Rainfall occurs throughout the year in the Cusco region, but the wettest months are November through March. The drier season runs from April to October, though isolated rain showers can occur even during the dry season. During the rainy season, afternoon thunderstorms are common, particularly at higher elevations.

Clothing Strategy for Different Seasons

May to September (Dry Season):

During these months, rainfall is minimal, and days are generally sunny. However, temperature swings between day and night are significant. During the day at high elevations, temperatures may reach 15-20 degrees Celsius with strong sun exposure. At night, temperatures drop to near or below freezing, particularly in Cusco and at Lake Titicaca.

Pack: light insulating layers, fleece jacket, warm down jacket, rain jacket (for occasional showers), warm hat, gloves, and sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat).

October to April (Wet Season):

During these months, rainfall is more frequent and heavy. Afternoon thunderstorms are common. Morning hours are often clearer before afternoon clouds develop. Temperature variations are less extreme than during the dry season, but nights remain cold at high elevation.

Pack: all items listed above plus additional rain protection such as waterproof pants or heavy-duty rain jacket. Bring extra dry clothing layers, as damp conditions make staying warm more difficult.

Best Visiting Months:

May to September represents the optimal period for touring, with more predictable weather and clearer visibility. March to April and October can also be suitable, though some rain should be expected. November to February experiences the highest rainfall and is the least desirable touring period.

Local Culture and People

Meeting Local Communities

The regions you visit contain communities maintaining traditional lifestyles and speaking Quechua or Aymara languages. Some residents have had limited contact with outsiders, and some may appear shy or reserved when first encountering tourists.

Respectful interaction is essential. Greetings should be polite and low-key. Ask permission before photographing residents or children, as some people prefer not to be photographed. Small gifts such as toys, useful clothing, notebooks, or fruit are appreciated but not expected. Avoid giving money directly to children or adults, as this can create dependency.

Cultural Sensitivity

Respect local customs and religious practices. The community members maintain strong connections to the land and practice traditional spiritual beliefs. Do not remove plants, stones, or other items from sacred locations. Do not touch or disturb any structures or artifacts within Inca sites.

Learn basic Quechua or Aymara phrases to show respect and interest in local languages. Your guide can teach you greetings and simple expressions. Even attempting to speak the local language demonstrates respect and often creates positive interactions.

Local Economy and Fair Trade

The communities you visit rely on agriculture, animal herding, tourism, and artisanal crafts for their livelihoods. Purchase handicrafts and products directly from local artisans when possible, ensuring they receive the full benefit of your purchase rather than middlemen. Fair prices for handicrafts support local economies and encourage cultural preservation.

Food and Eating Habits

Local Cuisine and Ingredients

The traditional Andean diet centers on potatoes, grains like quinoa and maize, beans, and high-altitude vegetables. Animal proteins include chicken, alpaca, guinea pig (cuy), and occasionally llama. These ingredients have been cultivated and consumed in the region for centuries and are adapted to high-altitude growing conditions.

Meals provided by your tour feature local, naturally-sourced ingredients. You can expect meals that are hearty, nutritious, and prepared with attention to dietary balance.

Eating Schedule

Your tour includes scheduled meal times for breakfast, lunch, and dinner as specified in the daily itinerary. Meals are timed to support your energy levels and touring schedule.

Special Dietary Requests

If you follow a specific diet (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc.), inform MACHU PICCHU TEAM at the time of booking so appropriate meal selections can be arranged. Discuss any dietary needs with your guide during your tour.

Affordable Dining and Budget Options

Eating in Cusco

Cusco offers a wide range of dining options at various price points. Casual restaurants (comedores) offer authentic Peruvian cuisine at very affordable prices. A typical meal at a comedor costs 15-25 Peruvian soles (approximately $4-7 USD). These casual eateries serve local diners and offer genuine food at budget prices.

Markets such as local markets also have food stalls offering affordable meals and snacks.

Higher-end restaurants in Cusco cater to tourists and charge higher prices (40-100+ Peruvian soles per meal or $12-30+ USD). These restaurants often offer international cuisine or upscale Peruvian food.

Eating in Aguas Calientes

Aguas Calientes offers numerous dining options at various prices. Tourist restaurants near the main plaza charge higher prices, while restaurants away from tourist areas offer lower-cost meals. Local comedores and small cafes provide affordable authentic meals.

Meals in tourist restaurants typically cost 30-80 Peruvian soles ($9-24 USD), while local establishments charge 15-35 Peruvian soles ($4-10 USD).

Eating in Puno

Puno offers diverse dining options ranging from budget to upscale establishments. Local restaurants feature Andean specialties and fresh lake fish. Budget meals in comedores cost approximately 15-25 Peruvian soles ($4-7 USD).

Optional Activities Without Cost

Free Activities in Cusco

• Walking the Historic Center: Cusco’s historic center includes architectural and cultural sites visible from public streets without paid admission. Wander the plazas, observe colonial architecture, and experience the urban layout of this historical city at no cost.
• Market Observation: Visit local markets to observe daily life, purchase goods, and experience local commerce. Market entry is free; costs apply only if you purchase items.
• Church and Convent Exteriors: Many colonial churches and convents have impressive exteriors visible from public streets. Photography of external architecture is generally permitted without fees.
• Plazas and Public Spaces: Cusco’s main plazas are public spaces where you can sit, observe, and experience local culture without fees.

Free Activities in Aguas Calientes

• Town Exploration: Walking through Aguas Calientes town provides opportunities to observe how tourism shapes a mountain community. Explore shops, restaurants, and local streets without specific costs unless you purchase items.
• River Walking: Walking along the Urubamba River near Aguas Calientes provides scenic views and outdoor time without fees.

Free Activities at Lake Titicaca

• Puno Waterfront Exploration: Walking along Puno’s waterfront provides views of Lake Titicaca without fees.
• Town Exploration: Walking through Puno town provides opportunities to observe local commerce and culture.

Physical Effort and Health Requirements

Understanding the Physical Demands

This tour is classified as moderate difficulty. Daily activities involve moderate walking (approximately 2 to 4 hours per day on most days) through urban areas, archeological sites, and natural landscapes. Your pace is leisurely, allowing time for observation and photography. Train journeys require minimal physical effort.

The main physical demands are:

• Moderate walking on uneven terrain at Sacsayhuaman
• Moderate walking through Pisac and Ollantaytambo archeological sites
• Approximately 2 hours of walking at Machu Picchu during your guided tour (followed by independent exploration at your own pace)
• Moderate walking on Uros and Taquile islands
• Train journeys (sitting with occasional movement to observation cars)

Altitude Acclimatization

Your first day in Cusco (3,350 meters) is dedicated to rest and acclimatization. This day allows your body to begin adjusting to high altitude. Spend your morning resting at your hotel, engaging in light activity such as walking around the neighborhood, drinking water, and eating light meals.

Altitude acclimatization typically requires 24 to 48 hours. By your second day (Sacred Valley), most trekkers have significantly acclimatized and can engage in full-day activities.

Medical Conditions and Tour Suitability

Persons with certain medical conditions should consult their physician before booking this tour. Conditions of concern include: severe cardiovascular disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, severe lung disease, uncontrolled diabetes, or severe arthritis affecting joints. Your doctor can advise whether this tour is medically appropriate for your individual condition.

MACHU PICCHU TEAM can discuss your medical condition confidentially if you have concerns about tour suitability.

Age Considerations

This tour is generally suitable for persons from childhood through older adulthood, depending on individual health status and fitness. The moderate difficulty level makes this tour accessible to travelers of varying ages. Families with children often complete this tour successfully. Older travelers successfully complete this tour regularly if they maintain reasonable health and fitness.

Discuss your specific age situation with MACHU PICCHU TEAM if you have concerns about appropriateness for your or a family member’s age.

Practical Travel Information

Currency and Money Management

The Peruvian currency is the Peruvian sol (PEN). U.S. dollars (USD) are also accepted in tourist areas. Exchange rates fluctuate; approximately 3.5 to 4 Peruvian soles equals 1 U.S. dollar (rates vary).

Automated teller machines (ATMs) throughout Cusco and Puno allow you to withdraw Peruvian soles using your bank debit card. Bring your bank card and remember your PIN number. Some ATMs charge transaction fees (typically 5-7 PEN per transaction).

Credit cards are accepted at most restaurants and shops in Cusco and Puno, but smaller establishments may only accept cash. Bring sufficient cash for meals, tips, souvenirs, and optional activities.

Communication and Internet

Cellular phone signals are available in Cusco, Aguas Calientes, and Puno. Signal is limited or unavailable on train journeys and at remote locations. WiFi internet is available at hotels and many restaurants in urban areas.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is strongly recommended to cover medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost baggage. Verify that your insurance policy covers the high-altitude regions you will visit.

Vaccination and Health Precautions

Consult your doctor regarding vaccinations recommended for Peru. Yellow fever vaccination is recommended for some regions. Altitude sickness is not prevented by vaccination; acclimatization is the only prevention method.

Malaria is present in some lowland jungle regions of Peru but not in the Cusco highlands or Lake Titicaca regions you will visit.

FAQs

What to Bring – Comprehensive Packing Guide

Critical Documents and Personal Items

• Original Passport – Your original passport is essential and must be the exact same passport you used for booking your tour. You will present your passport at Machu Picchu entrance, for train boarding, and at Lake Titicaca locations. Bring your passport with you on all tour days. You cannot enter Machu Picchu without your original passport.
• Passport Copies – Create 2 to 3 photocopies of your passport biographical page and store them separately from your original passport. These copies provide backup documentation if your original passport is lost.
• Travel Documents – Bring all train tickets, hotel reservation confirmations, and tour booking confirmations. MACHU PICCHU TEAM provides these documents; keep them organized and accessible.

Baggage and Carrying

• Small Backpack or Carry Bag – A small backpack or carry bag is recommended for daily use during tours. Larger backpacks are not permitted on trains or in Machu Picchu Inca City. Your day bag should be small enough to comfortably carry during walking tours and fit under train seats.
• Luggage for Hotel Stays – Pack a wheeled suitcase or travel bag for your hotel accommodations. This luggage remains at your hotel during daily tours. Bring only your small day backpack for tours.

Clothing and Footwear

• Changes of Clothing – Pack sufficient clothing for 6 days including underwear and socks for each day. You will have opportunity to launder items at your hotel if needed.
• Comfortable Shoes or Runners – Pack comfortable walking shoes suitable for urban exploration and moderate hiking. Shoes should provide ankle support and grip for steep terrain. Break in shoes before your trip to avoid blisters.
• Rain Jacket or Rain Poncho – Pack a waterproof rain jacket or poncho for weather protection. Rainfall can occur year-round in the Cusco region.
• Fleece or Light Jacket – Pack a lightweight insulating layer for temperature management during tours and train journeys.
• Warm Jacket for Nights – Pack a warm jacket for evenings, particularly during the dry season (May to September) when nights at high altitude are cold.
• Hat for Sun Protection – A broad-brimmed hat protects your face and head from intense high-altitude sun exposure.

Personal Care Items

• Basic Toiletries – Pack your preferred personal hygiene items including toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and other toiletries. Hotels provide some toiletries, but packing your preferred items ensures comfort.
• Sunscreen – High-altitude sun exposure is intense. Pack sunscreen with sun protection factor of at least 30. Apply sunscreen before tours and reapply after swimming or if you perspire heavily.
• Insect Repellent for Mosquitoes – Pack insect repellent effective against mosquitoes, particularly important for Lake Titicaca areas and evening times.
• Face Moisturizer – High-altitude environments have low humidity, causing rapid skin drying. Face moisturizer helps prevent chapping.
• Medications – Bring any personal medications you take regularly. Also bring over-the-counter medications for common traveler issues: pain relief (ibuprofen), antihistamine (for allergies), and stomach remedies.

Additional Items

• Camera – Pack a camera or smartphone for photographing sites. Bring sufficient battery power or charging cables.
• Water Bottle or Hydration Container – Bring a refillable water bottle for carrying water during tours. Boiled water is provided during tours, but having your own container allows independence.
• Extra Money – Bring sufficient cash (U.S. dollars or Peruvian soles) for meals not included in your package, shopping, tips, and optional activities. ATMs are available in Cusco and Puno.
• Travel Insurance Documents – Carry documentation of your travel insurance including policy number and emergency contact information.