NB: Prices correct on 30-Mar-2025 but subject to change.
This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey with the "Discovering Cusco" tour, where you'll explore the rich cultural heritage of Peru. Begin your adventure in the ancient Inca capital of Cusco, marveling at the blend of pre-Columbian ruins and Spanish colonial architecture. Visit the iconic Coricancha temple and the majestic Cathedral in the Plaza de Armas. Discover the mysteries of Sacsayhuaman, an immense fortress with perfectly fitted stones, and delve into the Sacred Valley's traditions in Chinchero and Ollantaytambo. The highlight of your trip will be the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the enigmatic past. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, guided tours, and seamless transfers, making this a truly enriching experience.
Highlights
Cusco: Visit this ancient Inca capital, admiring the mixture of pre-Columbian ruins and Spanish colonial architecture
Coricancha: One of the most famous temples in the city of Cusco, the Convent of Santo Domingo, was built on top of this Inca temple
Cathedral: Visit the most imposing monument of the Plaza de Armas, admiring the Gothic-Renaissance style which is inherited from the Spanish cathedrals of the XVI century
Sacsayhuaman: This emblematic Inca construction was built by the Inca ruler Pachacuti in the 15th century
Machu Picchu: The Lost City of the Incas is hidden on top of a mysterious Andean peak and offers views of the mountain range and a glimpse into the Inca’s enigmatic past
Chinchero: A traditional Cusco urban centre with a beautiful view of the valley, preserving the artisan traditions and inherited knowledge of the Incas
Living Museum of Yucay: A centre for Andean traditions interpretations, with demonstrations of textile work, adobe, pottery, and silverware, and home to llamas, sheep, and alpacas
Itinerary
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Arrive at Cusco Airport and enjoy a comfortable transfer to your selected hotel. A representative will accompany you, offering useful information about the city attractions and assisting you along the way. Take the opportunity to rest and recover after the flight or head out into the city for your first glimpse of life in one of Peru´s most vibrant cities. Alternatively, you can book our optional Half-Day South Valley Tour: Tipón, Pikillaqta and Andahuaylillas:
Half-Day South Valley Tour: Tipón, Pikillaqta and Andahuaylillas (private basis):
Unique tour that includes visits to the most important attractions between Cusco and Puno. Being the first to explore breath-taking archeological sites Tipón and its impressive rural colonial mansion where the Incas constructed an impressive irrigation system in harmony with nature that is still perceived by the surrounding population. In Pikillacta, the best-preserved pre-Inca cities we´ll follow the remains of the Wari culture, ancestor of the Incas, and in the beautiful Church of Andahuaylillas, also called "The Sistine Chapel of America” we´ll see the Wari´s marvelous original pipe organ. Take the most advantage of our tour and enjoy a day away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Notes: Private service. Start time: 13:00 hours. Duration 4.5 hours. Includes Pick-up and Drop-off, Bilingual guide (Spanish and English), Admission to Andahuaylillas and BTC (Cusco tourist ticket).
Overnight in Cusco.
Day 2
:
CUSCO
Location: Cusco
Accommodation Name: Tierra Viva Cusco or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a tasty breakfast at the hotel and have the morning free to walk around and explore the city on your own. In the afternoon, the tour begins in Coricancha, also known as the ‘Temple of the Sun’, which was built by order of Inca ruler Pachacuti and became the basis for the Santo Domingo Convent construction at the arrival of the Spaniards. Then, visit the Cathedral, the most imposing monument of the Main Square, and head to Sacsayhuaman, one of the emblematic buildings of the Incas, erected by Inca Pachacuti in the 15th century. It is an immense fortress built with large, hard to carry stones. How these were put together is still a mystery! Continue to Qenqo, an archaeological complex of religious use, where agricultural rituals were held. To conclude, visit Puka Pukara, seven kilometres from the city. Puka Pukara, which means ‘red fort’, was an architectural complex of supposed military use with multiple environments, plazas, baths, aqueducts, and towers. It is believed that it was used by the Inca entourage while the leader rested in Tambomachay. Once the tour ends, return to the selected hotel.
Overnight in Cusco.
Day 3
:
CUSCO – CHINCHERO - SACRED VALLEY (100 km – 2.5 hrs)
Location: Sacred Valley
Accommodation Name: AVA Spots or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Breakfast at the hotel. During the morning, you are picked up from your hotel in Cusco to visit the town of Chinchero, a traditional Cusco urban centre located at an elevated point with a beautiful view of the valley. The inhabitants of this area preserve the artisan traditions and the inherited knowledge of the Incas and display them in their clothes and customs. In Chinchero there are also archaeological remains and a beautiful seventeenth-century church, one of the first Catholic buildings in Peru. Then, you are transferred from Ollantaytambo to the Living Museum of Yucay, a centre Andean traditions interpretations, where demonstrations of the elaboration of textile work, adobe, pottery and silverware are carried out in the same way in which they used to in antiquity; an original recreation of Inca traditions. Also, residents of the museum include llamas, sheep and alpacas, and they can be fed! . Upon arriving in Ollantaytambo visit its town, inhabited uninterruptedly since Inca times, and climb the iconic fortress, built next to a mountain. Later, have lunch in Ollantaytambo and live a superior Andean gastronomy experience in a restaurant, where the true spirit of the Sacred Valley is transmitted in a cosy atmosphere. At the end of this activity, you are transferred back to your hotel. *On Sundays, also visit the local market.After your visit, return to your hotel in Sacred Valley.
Overnight in Sacred Valley.
Day 4
:
SACRED VALLEY – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO (170 km – 4 hrs)
Location: Machu Picchu
Accommodation Name: Tierra Viva Cusco or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Start the day with breakfast at the hotel, before your transfer to the Ollanta train station. Your tour to Machu Picchu begins with a train ride to Aguas Calientes, taking approximately two hours. The town is also nicknamed ‘Machu Picchu Pueblo’ and is the last stop before entering the remains of the most important archaeological site in Peru. In Aguas Calientes, one can find a craft market, restaurants and hotels of different categories for those who prefer to spend the night at the foot of the mountain and climb it early in the morning. Finally, after a short transfer by bus, reach Machu Picchu, a masterpiece of engineering and architecture that served as a sanctuary and retreat for the Inca ruler Pachacuti. Machu Picchu, which means ‘Old Mountain’, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Return to Aguas Calientes for lunch at Café Inkaterra, followed by your return trip to Cusco.Overnight in Cusco.
Day 5
:
DEPART CUSCO
Location: Cusco
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start the day with a tasty breakfast. Enjoy a comfortable transfer from your hotel to Cusco Airport to catch your onward flight.
What's Included
TOUR GUIDE:
Spanish and English-speaking local guide
ACCOMMODATION:
4 nights' accommodation
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1-2 and 4 Cusco:
Standard Hotel Category = Tierra Viva Cusco or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Hilton Garden Inn or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Aranwa Cusco Boutique or similar 5*
Day 3 Sacred Valley:
Standard Hotel Category = AVA Spots or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Sonesta Posadas del Inca Yucay or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba or similar 5*
OPTIONAL EXTRA:
Pre-/Post night in Cusco:
Standard Hotel Category = Tierra Viva Cusco or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Hilton Garden Inn or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Aranwa Cusco Boutique or similar 5*
MEALS:
4 Breakfasts
2 Lunches (day 3, 4)
TRANSPORT:
Transfers from/ to airport in a private vehicle
Shared transfers from and to the train stations
Roundtrip train to Machu Picchu in Expedition Service (PeruRail) or Voyager (IncaRail)
Bus Aguas Calientes/ Machu Picchu/ Aguas Calientes.
ENTRANCE FEES AND ACTIVITIES:
Admission to all major monuments and sightseeing attractions mentioned in the above itinerary: Coricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Tambomachay and Puka Pukara in Cusco, Ollantaytambo and Living Museum of Yucay in Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu on day 4
What's Not Included
Personal Expenditures
Expenditures of a personal nature, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages during meals, meals or items not stated explicitly in the programme.
Tips
Tips for driver and guide.
Additional Visits
Additional optional visits.
International Flights
International flights to Peru.
Domestic Flights
Domestic flights (we advise booking the first flights in the morning).
Airport Taxes
International and domestic airport departure taxes.
Requirements
Comfortable and light clothing is recommended for visiting the coastal areas of Peru, while for the high Andean area the use of warm clothing is recommended. It is not recommended that visitors wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or short clothes when visiting religious temples or official buildings. Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.
Please Note
Rates do not apply to Peruvians or residents with more than 60 days of stay. If passengers are Peruvians or exceed 60 days of stay, sale taxes (18%) will be collected by our local operator
Please note that Check In in most hotels begins at 13:00 hrs. Clients will be subject to the availability of the room if they arrive before, waiting in the hotel lobby
If your trip includes a visit to high altitude cities such as Cusco and Puno located at more than 3400 meters (11 200 feet above sea level), do not forget to take precautions in order to avoid altitude sickness. Passengers who have heart problems or high blood pressure should check with their doctor before travelling
We reserve the right to change itineraries and activities due to weather conditions, technical problems or security reasons.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE NEW ENTRANCE REGULATIONS TO MACHU PICCHU
The current restrictions on visits to Machu Picchu allow a maximum stay of 4 hours in the citadel (2 hours and a half accompanied by a guide). If the visitor tours an alternate route (Mountain Machu Picchu or Huayna Picchu) the passenger will have 3 hours for this purpose, additional to the 4 hours in the citadel. If the passenger wishes to enter the citadel again during the afternoon shift or the next day, he must acquire previously an additional ticket to enter the new shift. There is no ticket sale in the archaeological zone.
To help preserve the Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary and maintain its World Heritage status, the Ministry of Culture has designated various visitor circuits. The specific circuit and schedule will be assigned based on availability at the time your reservation is confirmed.
The following objects are forbidden: professional cameras that require lights and tripods, or with telephoto lenses with a weight higher than 2 kilos (in order to use them, special authorization is needed, as well as the payment of an additional fee), drones, selfie sticks, sprays, high heels, walking sticks without rubber tip, banners and posters, sharp objects and backpacks bigger than 40cm x 35 cm x 20 cm.
NEW PLASTIC REGULATION:
After prohibiting the access of single use plastic items to 76 natural areas including Machu Picchu, it is important to use reusable bottles.
INSTRUCTIONS
Carry the same document that you presented to the agency, given that the train tickets and entrance to Machu Picchu will be issued with the same information.
In all train services to Machu Picchu, the passenger can carry only hand luggage (backpack, bag or briefcase) weighing no more than 5kg / 11lb on the train to/from Machu Picchu. You will find your luggage at the chosen hotel. Allowed size: 62 linear inches 157cm (height + length + width)
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1-2 and 4 Cusco:
Standard Hotel Category = Tierra Viva Cusco or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Hilton Garden Inn or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Aranwa Cusco Boutique or similar 5*
Day 3 Sacred Valley:
Standard Hotel Category = AVA Spots or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Casa Andina Premium Valle or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba or similar 5*
OPTIONAL EXTRA:
Pre-/Post night in Cusco:
Standard Hotel Category = Tierra Viva Cusco or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Hilton Garden Inn or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Aranwa Cusco Boutique or similar 5*
Mode of Transport
Travel comfortably with private airport transfers, shared transfers to train stations, and roundtrip train service to Machu Picchu. Enjoy bus transfers between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
Accommodation
Enjoy 4 nights' accommodation with options ranging from standard 3-star hotels like Tierra Viva Cusco to deluxe 5-star hotels like Aranwa Cusco Boutique. Stay in Cusco for 3 nights and Sacred Valley for 1 night, with pre-/post-night options available.
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1-2 and 4 Cusco:
Standard Hotel Category = Tierra Viva Cusco or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Hilton Garden Inn or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Aranwa Cusco Boutique or similar 5*
Day 3 Sacred Valley:
Standard Hotel Category = AVA Spots or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Sonesta Posadas del Inca Yucay or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba or similar 5*
OPTIONAL EXTRA:
Pre-/Post night in Cusco:
Standard Hotel Category = Tierra Viva Cusco or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Hilton Garden Inn or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Aranwa Cusco Boutique or similar 5*
Check out our Q&As
What languages will the tour guide speak?
The tour guide will speak both Spanish and English.
What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes 4 nights' accommodation. In Cusco, you can choose between standard, superior, and deluxe hotel categories. In the Sacred Valley, similar options are available.
Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour includes 4 breakfasts and 2 lunches on days 3 and 4.
What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes private vehicle transfers from and to the airport, shared transfers from and to the train stations, roundtrip train to Machu Picchu in Expedition Service (PeruRail) or Voyager (IncaRail), and bus transfers between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
What entrance fees and activities are included in the tour?
The tour includes admission to all major monuments and sightseeing attractions mentioned in the itinerary, such as Coricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Tambomachay, Puka Pukara, Ollantaytambo, Living Museum of Yucay, and Machu Picchu.
What optional activities are available on the first day?
On the first day, you can book an optional Half-Day South Valley Tour, which includes visits to Tipón, Pikillaqta, and Andahuaylillas.
What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable and light clothing for coastal areas, warm clothing for high Andean areas, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and mosquito repellent are recommended. Avoid wearing sleeveless shirts, shorts, or short skirts when visiting religious temples or official buildings.
Are there any restrictions for visiting Machu Picchu?
Yes, the current restrictions allow a maximum stay of 4 hours in the citadel accompanied by a guide. If you tour an alternate route like Mountain Machu Picchu or Huayna Picchu, you will have an additional 3 hours. Re-entry requires an additional ticket. Certain items like professional cameras, drones, selfie sticks, and large backpacks are not permitted.
What should I do to avoid altitude sickness?
It is recommended to rest for a few hours upon arrival, drink coca tea, and eat lightly. Passengers with heart problems or high blood pressure should consult their doctor before traveling.
What does the price include?
What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.
Are Visa fees included in the price?
No, visa fees are not included
What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.
What documents will I receive before I travel?
Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers
When are there specific hotel names confirmed?
Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client's arrival
Do you offer any travel insurance?
We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure.
Is there any option for solo traveller?
Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.
Are flights included in the tour?
No, they are not included
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Reviews of this operator
Jose G.
Muy preparados y respetuosos, gracias LIma Tours
15-Feb-2023
El personal muy atento, preparados, respetuosos
Cesar
Excelente empresa
22-Feb-2023
Me gusto la atención y la formalidad de la agencia.
Marcela
Todo excelente la atención de team de Lima Tours muy buena
16-Feb-2023
Todo excelente la atención de team de Lima Tours muy buena
Lima Tours requires a minimum deposit of
25%
or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 89 days before departure.
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of lima tours charges.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 8 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Not what you're looking for?
People that have booked this tour have also searched for the following:
[{"title":"Day 1: ARRIVAL CUSCO","name":"Cusco","description":"<p>Arrive at Cusco Airport and enjoy a comfortable transfer to your selected hotel. A representative will accompany you, offering useful information about the city attractions and assisting you along the way. Take the opportunity to rest and recover after the flight or head out into the city for your first glimpse of life in one of Peru´s most vibrant cities. Alternatively, you can book our optional Half-Day South Valley Tour: Tipón, Pikillaqta and Andahuaylillas: </p><p><strong><em>Half-Day South Valley Tour: Tipón, Pikillaqta and Andahuaylillas (private basis):</em></strong></p><p><em>Unique tour that includes visits to the most important attractions between Cusco and Puno. Being the first to explore breath-taking archeological sites Tipón and its impressive rural colonial mansion where the Incas constructed an impressive irrigation system in harmony with nature that is still perceived by the surrounding population. In Pikillacta, the best-preserved pre-Inca cities we´ll follow the remains of the Wari culture, ancestor of the Incas, and in the beautiful Church of Andahuaylillas, also called \"The Sistine Chapel of America” we´ll see the Wari´s marvelous original pipe organ. Take the most advantage of our tour and enjoy a day away from the hustle and bustle of the city. </em></p><p><em>Notes: Private service. Start time: 13:00 hours. Duration 4.5 hours. Includes Pick-up and Drop-off, Bilingual guide (Spanish and English), Admission to Andahuaylillas and BTC (Cusco tourist ticket).</em></p><p><strong>Overnight in Cusco.</strong></p>","lat":"-13.53195","lng":"-71.967463"},{"title":"Day 2: CUSCO","name":"Cusco","description":"<p>Enjoy a tasty breakfast at the hotel and have the morning free to walk around and explore the city on your own. In the afternoon, the tour begins in Coricancha, also known as the ‘Temple of the Sun’, which was built by order of Inca ruler Pachacuti and became the basis for the Santo Domingo Convent construction at the arrival of the Spaniards. Then, visit the Cathedral, the most imposing monument of the Main Square, and head to Sacsayhuaman, one of the emblematic buildings of the Incas, erected by Inca Pachacuti in the 15th century. It is an immense fortress built with large, hard to carry stones. How these were put together is still a mystery! Continue to Qenqo, an archaeological complex of religious use, where agricultural rituals were held. To conclude, visit Puka Pukara, seven kilometres from the city. Puka Pukara, which means ‘red fort’, was an architectural complex of supposed military use with multiple environments, plazas, baths, aqueducts, and towers. It is believed that it was used by the Inca entourage while the leader rested in Tambomachay. Once the tour ends, return to the selected hotel.</p><p><strong>Overnight in Cusco.</strong></p>","lat":"-13.53195","lng":"-71.967463"},{"title":"Day 3: CUSCO – CHINCHERO - SACRED VALLEY (100 km – 2.5 hrs)","name":"Sacred Valley","description":"<p>Breakfast at the hotel. During the morning, you are picked up from your hotel in Cusco to visit the town of Chinchero, a traditional Cusco urban centre located at an elevated point with a beautiful view of the valley. The inhabitants of this area preserve the artisan traditions and the inherited knowledge of the Incas and display them in their clothes and customs. In Chinchero there are also archaeological remains and a beautiful seventeenth-century church, one of the first Catholic buildings in Peru. Then, you are transferred from Ollantaytambo to the Living Museum of Yucay, a centre Andean traditions interpretations, where demonstrations of the elaboration of textile work, adobe, pottery and silverware are carried out in the same way in which they used to in antiquity; an original recreation of Inca traditions. Also, residents of the museum include llamas, sheep and alpacas, and they can be fed! . Upon arriving in Ollantaytambo visit its town, inhabited uninterruptedly since Inca times, and climb the iconic fortress, built next to a mountain. Later, have lunch in Ollantaytambo and live a superior Andean gastronomy experience in a restaurant, where the true spirit of the Sacred Valley is transmitted in a cosy atmosphere. At the end of this activity, you are transferred back to your hotel. *On Sundays, also visit the local market.After your visit, return to your hotel in Sacred Valley.</p><p><strong>Overnight in Sacred Valley.</strong></p>","lat":"-13.332816","lng":"-72.084465"},{"title":"Day 4: SACRED VALLEY – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO (170 km – 4 hrs)","name":"Machu Picchu","description":"Start the day with breakfast at the hotel, before your transfer to the Ollanta train station. Your tour to Machu Picchu begins with a train ride to Aguas Calientes, taking approximately two hours. The town is also nicknamed ‘Machu Picchu Pueblo’ and is the last stop before entering the remains of the most important archaeological site in Peru. In Aguas Calientes, one can find a craft market, restaurants and hotels of different categories for those who prefer to spend the night at the foot of the mountain and climb it early in the morning. Finally, after a short transfer by bus, reach Machu Picchu, a masterpiece of engineering and architecture that served as a sanctuary and retreat for the Inca ruler Pachacuti. Machu Picchu, which means ‘Old Mountain’, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Return to Aguas Calientes for lunch at Café Inkaterra, followed by your return trip to Cusco.Overnight in Cusco.","lat":"-13.163199","lng":"-72.545262"},{"title":"Day 5: DEPART CUSCO","name":"Cusco","description":"<p>Start the day with a tasty breakfast. Enjoy a comfortable transfer from your hotel to Cusco Airport to catch your onward flight.</p><p></p>","lat":"-13.53195","lng":"-71.967463"}]
