Machu Picchu Tour 4 Days/3 Nights

🧭 Description

This comprehensive 4-day trip takes you along the essential paths of the Inca legacy, beginning in the majestic city of Cusco, touring the most emblematic archaeological sites of the Sacred Valley, and culminating with an unforgettable experience at the enigmatic citadel of Machu Picchu.

Designed for those who want to experience the best of Andean history in comfort, without long hikes or extreme physical demands, this package combines cultural visits, panoramic train rides, local cuisine, and the opportunity to discover the mysteries of the Inca Empire with the guidance of local experts. Each day is carefully organized to offer a unique, in-depth, and authentic experience in the Peruvian Andes.

Ideal for couples, families, cultural travelers, or adventurers who want to explore Machu Picchu on a comprehensive, accessible tour full of unforgettable moments.

🧭 Itinerary

📍Day 1: Welcome to Peru’s historic capital and Archaeological City Tour

Your experience begins in the imperial city of Cusco, where a representative will welcome you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. The morning is free, perfect for acclimatizing to the altitude, enjoying a first stroll through the cobblestone streets of the historic center, visiting traditional cafes, or simply relaxing.

In the afternoon, you’ll begin your cultural immersion with a comprehensive archaeological city tour. This tour begins in the heart of the city with a visit to the imposing Temple of the Sun – Koricancha, one of the most important ceremonial centers of the Inca worldview, whose perfectly assembled stone walls still stand beneath the colonial convent of Santo Domingo. Then, you’ll head to the outskirts of the city to explore the most impressive archaeological sites surrounding Cusco: Sacsayhuamán, with its colossal stone blocks and panoramic views of the city; Qenqo, a ceremonial center carved from the rock; Puca Pucara, the ancient control and surveillance zone of the Empire; and Tambomachay, with its canals and crystal-clear water fountains used for ritual purposes. A day full of history and symbols that mark the beginning of your connection with the Andean world.

📍Day 2: Magical Sacred Valley of the Incas and arrival in Aguas Calientes

The day begins with a journey to the fertile and sacred Urubamba Valley, the cradle of ancient Andean civilizations. The first stop will be the archaeological complex of Pisac, located on a mountaintop and famous for its agricultural terraces and Inca tombs perched on cliffs. Visit offers an in-depth look at the Inca agricultural system and their architecture adapted to the natural environment.

Afterward, you’ll descend to the town of Pisac, where you can experience local life up close, explore its colorful artisan market, and discover products made by traditional communities. Continuing through the valley, you’ll reach Urubamba, a peaceful valley surrounded by mountains, where you’ll enjoy a delicious Andean buffet lunch featuring typical dishes made with fresh, regional ingredients.

The route continues to the legendary town of Ollantaytambo, one of the few places where the original Inca layout is still preserved. Its archaeological site is a monumental work of architecture and defense, with enormous farming terraces, temples, and ceremonial fountains. After the visit, you’ll head to the train station to board the tour service that will take you through spectacular scenery to the town of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, your hotel host will greet you and check you into your accommodation. Later, your guide will visit you to give you final details about the following day. The evening is free for dinner and relaxation in this charming village surrounded by jungle-clad mountains.

📍Day 3: Encounter with the sacred city of Machu Picchu

Dawn brings with it one of the most anticipated moments of the trip: a visit to the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. You’ll ascend by eco-friendly bus along a road that zigzags through the mountain jungle, while the sacred peaks and the mist create a mystical and immersive atmosphere.

Once at the top, you’ll enter the archaeological complex accompanied by your guide, who will take you on a tour of approximately two and a half hours through the most important areas of the citadel. You’ll discover the history and function of the Temple of the Sun, the Sacred Plaza, the Intihuatana, the Temple of the Three Windows, and the agricultural and residential areas, all while learning about the Inca worldview and the secrets of their ancient architecture.

At the end of the visit, you’ll return to Aguas Calientes to enjoy a comforting lunch, followed by a short free time to stroll through the town, buy souvenirs, visit the artisan market, or simply relax by the river. Afterward, you’ll board the return train to Ollantaytambo, where a private transfer will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Cusco.

📍Day 4: Last morning in Cusco and farewell

Your last day in Cusco is designed for you to enjoy at your leisure. You’ll have the morning free to walk through the historic center, visit museums, buy handicrafts, take photographs in the Plaza de Armas, or simply enjoy a coffee in front of the colonial balconies. At the scheduled time, our transfer will pick you up to take you to the airport and bid farewell to this land full of history, magic, and energy.

An experience that combines culture, archaeology, gastronomy, and unforgettable landscapes, ideal for those who want to experience Machu Picchu in a comfortable, safe, and enriching way.

✅ What’s included in the tour?

This tour package is designed to provide you with a complete and worry-free experience, with all the necessary services organized so you can fully enjoy your trip through the heart of the Andean world:

✅Pickup at the Cusco airport and transfer to your selected hotel, so you can begin your adventure comfortably from the very beginning.

✅City tour in Cusco with admission included, which includes:

1. Guided tour of the Temple of the Sun – Koricancha and the archaeological sites of Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay.
2. Round-trip tourist transportation.
3. Professional bilingual guide (Spanish – English).
4. Admission to all tourist sites on the tour.

✅Excursion to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, with:

1. Pickup from your hotel in Cusco.
2. Tourist transportation throughout the valley.
3. Entrance fees to the archaeological sites of Pisac and Ollantaytambo.
4. Andean buffet lunch in Urubamba with local products.
5. Professional bilingual guide throughout the tour.

✅Tourist train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, with panoramic views throughout the journey.

✅1 night’s accommodation in Aguas Calientes in a comfortable tourist hotel with breakfast included.

✅Tourist bus ticket for hop-on hop-off between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.

✅Official entrance to the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, with access to the main Inca citadel.

✅Guided tour of Machu Picchu with a certified guide, approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, covering the site’s most iconic sites.

✅Return tourist train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.

✅Private transportation from the Ollantaytambo train station to your hotel in Cusco.

✅Final transfer from your hotel in Cusco to the airport.

❌ What’s not included?

Although the tour is quite comprehensive, there are some services and details that are not included and that you may want to consider to organize your trip more personalized:

❌ Meals not mentioned in the itinerary, such as breakfast in Cusco, dinner, or snacks during the excursion.

❌ Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain, which requires prior reservation and additional payment. (Check availability at the time of booking).

❌Access to the Aguas Calientes hot springs, an optional activity that you can do on your own (cost approximately 10 soles per person).

❌Tips for guides, drivers, or service staff are not mandatory, but are a common practice to express our gratitude for the team’s good service and professionalism.

❌Personal expenses, such as drinks, souvenirs, additional snacks, laundry, calls, among others.

❌Travel insurance or medical assistance, highly recommended for any trip, but not included in the package.

❌Domestic or international flights to/from Cusco, which must be arranged independently by the traveler.

🌟 Recommendations

Here are some essential tips to help you enjoy your experience to the fullest, without setbacks and in total comfort:

• Acclimatize before starting the excursions. Cusco is at over 3,300 meters above sea level, so we recommend arriving at least one day before the tour to adjust to the weather and avoid altitude sickness.
• Wear layered clothing. The weather in the Andes can vary greatly throughout the day. Wear light clothing for the day, a coat for the evening, and a good waterproof jacket in case it rains.
• Wear comfortable, hiking-appropriate footwear. Visits to archaeological sites include walks on rocks and steps, so hiking shoes or boots will be very helpful.
• Stay hydrated. Always carry a reusable water bottle, especially during the tour days. Hydration is key at altitude.
• Don’t forget your passport. It is required to enter Machu Picchu. It must match your entry information and is required at security checkpoints.
• Bring sunscreen and a hat. Although the weather can be cool, the sun at altitude is very strong. Protect your skin and eyes with UV-filtering sunglasses.
• Have cash (soles). Some places, such as markets or small shops in Pisac or Aguas Calientes, do not accept cards. It is also useful for tips or personal expenses.
• Bring a light backpack for daily excursions. Ideal for carrying water, a camera, a rain poncho, snacks, sunscreen, toilet paper, among other things.
• Purchase travel insurance. It is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended for any unforeseen medical, weather, or cancellation issues.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

• Do I need to purchase my Machu Picchu tickets separately?

No. Tickets to the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu are included in the package, as are bus and train tickets. Everything is organized so you don’t have to worry about additional arrangements.

• Is it necessary to be in good physical condition to take this tour?

This tour does not require any major physical demands. The hikes are gentle and suitable for all ages. It is recommended to be in basic physical condition and acclimatize before starting the itinerary.

• Can I add Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain to the tour?

Yes, but you must request it in advance, as these tickets are sold in limited quantities. It has an additional cost and is subject to availability.

• What type of accommodation is included in Aguas Calientes?

The package includes one night in a comfortable tourist hotel with a private bathroom, hot water, and breakfast. You can also request an upgrade to a higher category if you prefer greater comfort.

• Can this tour be taken year-round?

Yes. The tour is available year-round, although the best time is from April to October, during the dry season. From November to March, there are occasional rainy periods, but tours continue as usual.

• Can I leave luggage in Cusco while traveling to Machu Picchu?

Yes. You can leave your large suitcases at your hotel in Cusco and only bring a light backpack for the night in Aguas Calientes.

• Is travel insurance mandatory?

It is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended. Insurance can cover cancellations, accidents, medical care, or lost luggage.