On the trail from Lares to Machu Picchu, girl with her llamas.

Cusco City tour and Inca Ruins

Half day

Highlights Itinerary Includes Faqs

Discover Cusco and Machu Picchu: A 3-Day Adventure

Explore the magic of Cusco and the breathtaking beauty of Machu Picchu in this 3-day tour.

Perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in Inca history, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable experiences. Let’s walk through the details of your journey!

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco - Welcome to the Inca Capital

Then upon your arrival at Cusco Airport, our Machupicchu Latin America representative will greet you and provide private transportation to your hotel.

During the short drive, we’ll give you a quick overview of the itinerary and answer any last-minute questions about your upcoming adventure.

  • Tip: Use the afternoon to rest and acclimate to the altitude, as Cusco sits at 3,400 meters (11,152 feet) above sea level.
  • Optional: Explore the city with a Cusco city tour (extra cost), where you can visit famous landmarks such as the Plaza de Armas, Qorikancha, and the San Pedro Market.

Overnight: Cusco

Welcome to Cusco, the starting point of your unforgettable journey to Machu Picchu.

Day 2: Machu Picchu Guided Tour - Cusco

On the other hand after an early breakfast at your hotel, our Machupicchu Latin America guide will pick you up between 4:00 am and 5:00 am, depending on the train class you select.

From there, we’ll drive through the scenic Sacred Valley to the Ollantaytambo train station.

Board the scenic train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, passing through the Sacred Valley

  • Train Journey to Aguas Calientes: Enjoy a scenic train ride through the Sacred Valley, following the path of the Vilcanota River.
  • As you journey closer to Machu Picchu, the landscapes shift dramatically from mountains to lush cloud forests, offering stunning photo opportunities.

Enjoy breathtaking views of the Vilcanota River and the Andean landscape on your way to Machu Picchu

Besides upon arrival at Aguas Calientes, our representative will guide you to the bus station for a 30-minute ride up to the entrance of Machu Picchu.

Here begins your exploration of one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

  • Guided Tour of Machu PicchuOur professional guide will take you on a journey through this iconic Inca citadel, revealing its history, architecture, and the mysteries that still surround Machu Picchu.
  • You’ll visit important landmarks such as the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana stone, and the remarkable agricultural terraces.
  • Fun Fact: Machu Picchu

Was built in the mid-15th century, but remained unknown to the outside world until its rediscovery by Hiram Bingham in 1911.

Step into the magic of Machu Picchu and explore one of the New Seven Wonders of the World

After your tour, we’ll head back to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included), where you'll have free time to shop for souvenirs or explore the town’s local attractions.

In the afternoon, board the return train to Ollantaytambo, where our transport will take you back to Cusco, arriving at approximately 6:30 pm.

Overnight: Cusco

Day 3: Departure from Cusco

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before we transfer you to the Cusco Airport based on your flight itinerary. Take with you the unforgettable memories of your journey through the heart of the Inca Empire.

Return to Cusco with unforgettable memories of your day exploring Machu Picchu.

Why This Tour is Special:

  • Cultural immersion: Experience the rich history of Cusco and the mystery of Machu Picchu in just three days.
  • Convenient itinerary: From airport pick-up to hotel transfers and guided tours, every detail is planned to make your experience seamless.
  • Stunning scenery: Enjoy breathtaking landscapes during your train ride to Machu Picchu and throughout your journey in the Sacred Valley.

This 3-day tour is perfect for those seeking a quick but enriching journey through Peru’s ancient wonders, with the perfect balance of adventure, culture, and history.


Itinerary

This 3-day journey provides an in-depth exploration of Cusco and Machu Picchu, offering the perfect mix of adventure, history, and breathtaking landscapes. Let’s break down the details of your trip.

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco - Gateway to the Inca Empire

  • Arrival: Upon landing at Cusco Airport, you’ll be greeted by a representative and transferred to your hotel.
  • Briefing during transfer: We’ll provide a quick overview of your upcoming tour and answer any questions you have.
  • Optional Cusco city tour (extra cost): If you have time, explore local highlights like Qorikancha and the Plaza de Armas.

Why it’s important?
This first day allows you to settle in and adjust to the altitude. If you opt for the city tour, it’s a great way to immerse yourself in the rich cultural history of Cusco.

Day 2: Machu Picchu Guided Tour - Cusco

  • Hotel pick-up: Between 4:00 am and 5:00 am, depending on the train class selected.
  • Drive to Ollantaytambo: You’ll enjoy a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley on the way to the train station.
  • Train to Aguas Calientes: Board the train and marvel at the views of the Vilcanota River and surrounding mountains as you approach Machu Picchu.

Guided Tour of Machu Picchu:

  • Bus ride: After arriving at Aguas Calientes, take a 30-minute ride to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
  • Explore Machu Picchu: Our expert guide will walk you through the iconic ruins, explaining the history, architecture, and significance of this ancient wonder.
  • Free time: After the tour, you’ll have free time in Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included) and shopping.

Return to Cusco:

  • Train ride back to Ollantaytambo: After lunch, board the train back to Ollantaytambo.
  • Transfer to Cusco: We’ll drive you back to your hotel, arriving around 6:30 pm.

Why it’s unforgettable?
Visiting Machu Picchu is a dream come true for many. The combination of the ancient ruins and the spectacular mountain setting makes it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Day 3: Departure from Cusco

  • Hotel pick-up: We’ll take you to Cusco Airport in time for your flight, based on your itinerary.

Why it’s convenient?
With everything taken care of, you can enjoy a stress-free departure, leaving Cusco with memories of one of the world’s most incredible destinations through the Inca Empire.


Includes / Does not Include

Included

  • Airport/Hotel pick up and drop off (door to door service).
  • 2 Night hotel with private bathrooms and breakfast included (at your selected hotel in Twin/Double - Single - Triple rooms).
  • Machupicchu guided tour.
  • Roundtrip train tickets (at your selected train class) Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo.
  • Round trip bus tickets in Machupicchu (Aguas Calientes - Machupicchu - Aguas Calientes).
  • All admission tickets including Machupicchu.
  • Professional English-speaking tour guide.
  • Overland transportation for all transfers during the 3-day program.
  • 1 Bottle of Water.

Not Included:

  • International air tickets.
  • Domestic air tickets (Lima - Cusco - Lima).
  • One-way Vistadome train upgrade US$ 55.
  • Optional tours: Cusco city tour or Moray - Salt Mines half day tours.
  • Admission tickets if you take the optional tour not included on the itinerary.
  • Meals (Lunch, Dinner).
  • Travel insurance (Highly recommended).
  • Additional and personal expenses (laundry, telephone calls, snacks).
  • Gratuity (optional).

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

A one-day tour from Cusco is enough to visit Machu Picchu, especially if you take an early train. However, for a more relaxed experience, many travelers opt for 2 days, staying overnight in Aguas Calientes to explore the town and visit the ruins with plenty of time. This also allows for extra activities, like hiking Huayna Picchu or visiting the hot springs.

A typical full-day tour to Machu Picchu from Cusco costs between $300 and $450 USD per person. This generally includes round-trip train tickets, bus transfers, entrance fees, and a guided tour of the site. Prices can vary based on train class and additional services like private tours or meals.

The best days to visit Machu Picchu are typically weekdays, especially Tuesday to Thursday. These days tend to be less crowded compared to weekends, allowing you to enjoy the site with fewer tourists. Visiting during the early morning is also ideal for experiencing the magic of Machu Picchu with fewer people and better lighting for photos.

The dry season from April to October is the best time to visit, as the weather is more predictable with clear skies, making it ideal for exploring the ruins and capturing stunning views.

Tour Details

  • Duration:Half day
  • Altitude:4630 m / 15119 ft
  • Difficulty:Moderate
  • Review:4.9 (4895 views)
  • Group Size: Up to 12 people

Contáctanos por WhatsApp.

Sales AgentContact1 Sales AgentContact2

Book Now

Please complete our BOOKING FORM carefully with your correct personal information.


The Best of Cusco with Machu Picchu

Select the experience that best suits your travel style, or customize it.

On the trail from Lares to Machu Picchu, girl with her llamas.

Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco by Vistadome Panoramic Train

Full day Moderate

Experience a seamless full-day Machu Picchu tour from Cusco with scenic train ride through Sacred Valley, bus to the citadel, guided exploration of Inca landmarks like Temple of the Sun and Intihuatana. Includes transfers, tickets, and expert insights for unforgettable 2026 Peru day adventures.

Up to 12 people 4630 m / 15119 ft 4.9 (4895 views)

From $379

See Details
On the trail from Lares to Machu Picchu, girl with her llamas.

Machu Picchu Tour by Train

2 Day Moderate

Experience Machu Picchu in 2 days from Cusco with scenic train ride through Sacred Valley. Guided citadel tour visiting Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana, and Sacred Rock. Hotel in Aguas Calientes, bus tickets, and expert guide included for 2026 Peru trips.

Up to 12 people 4630 m / 15119 ft 4.9 (4895 views)

From $359

See Details
View of terraces in Pisac, Sacred Valley

Sacred Valley Classic, Pisac, Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu Tour by Train

2 Day Easy

Explore the best of the Sacred Valley (Pisac, Ollantaytambo) and the Machu Picchu citadel in 2 days. Easy tour package with train and hotel included.

Up to 12 people 4630 m / 15119 ft 4.9 (4895 views)

From $469

See Details
On the trail from Lares to Machu Picchu, girl with her llamas.

Sacred Valley cultural: Chinchero Moray, Salt Mines, Ollantaytambo and Machupicchu by Train

2 Day Moderate

Explore Inca agricultural lab at Moray, Chinchero textiles, Maras salt pools, and Ollantaytambo ruins. Guided Machu Picchu tour with train ride, hotel in Aguas Calientes, and expert guide. Perfect 2-day Sacred Valley adventure for 2026 Peru visitors.

Up to 12 people 4630 m / 15119 ft 4.9 (4895 views)

From $479

See Details
On the trail from Lares to Machu Picchu, girl with her llamas.

Machupicchu and Sacred Valley - skip the Altitude

4 Day Moderate

Immerse in Sacred Valley with Pisac ruins, market, and Ollantaytambo fortress. Guided Machu Picchu tour, scenic train rides, hotels, and expert insights into Inca history. All-inclusive Peru adventure with transfers and tickets for 2026 travelers.

Up to 12 people 4630 m / 15119 ft 4.9 (4895 views)

From $529

See Details
On the trail from Lares to Machu Picchu, girl with her llamas.

Highlight of Cusco and Machu Picchu Tour

5 Day Moderate

Uncover Machu Picchu and Cusco highlights on this immersive tour. Explore Sacred Valley, Pisac ruins, Ollantaytambo fortress, Maras salt mines, Moray terraces, Chinchero textiles, and guided Machu Picchu visit. Includes train rides, hotels, and expert guides for sustainable 2026 Peru journeys.

Up to 12 people 4630 m / 15119 ft 4.9 (4895 views)

From $649

See Details
Beautiful girl raising her hands to Apu Salkantay.

Treasures of Cusco and Machu Picchu

5 Day Moderate to Challenging

Discover the treasures of Cusco and Machu Picchu on this 5-day adventure. Explore Sacred Valley, Pisac ruins, Ollantaytambo, and the iconic Machu Picchu with guided tours, train rides, and hotel stays. Perfect for history lovers and Peru travelers in 2026.

Up to 12 people 4630 m / 15119 ft 4.9 (4895 views)

From $689

See Details

Classic Tours

The best of classic tours

On the trail from Lares to Machu Picchu, girl with her llamas.

Rainbow Mountain Hiking Tour Vinicunca route

Full Day Moderate

Hike to vibrant Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) on a full-day tour from Cusco. Early pick-up, breakfast in Cusipata, 1.5-hour ascent to 5200m summit with panoramic views and Andean legends, descent, lunch, and return. Moderate difficulty, small group up to 12, includes guide and meals for enriching 2026 Peru nature experiences.

Up to 12 people 4630 m / 15119 ft 4.9 (4895 views)

From $49

See Details
On the trail from Lares to Machu Picchu, girl with her llamas.

Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountain Tour

3 Day Moderate

Embark on a thrilling 3-day tour from Cusco exploring Sacred Valley`s Pisac ruins and Ollantaytambo fortress, a guided Machu Picchu visit, and a hike to vibrant Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca. Includes scenic train rides, hotels, meals, and expert guides for immersive cultural and natural experiences in 2026 Peru.

Up to 12 people 4630 m / 15119 ft 4.9 (4895 views)

From $499

See Details
On the trail from Lares to Machu Picchu, girl with her llamas.

Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain Adventure

4 Day Moderate

Journey through Cusco`s highlights, Sacred Valley`s Moray terraces, Salineras salt mines, Ollantaytambo fortress, guided Machu Picchu tour, and Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) hike. Includes hotels, train rides, and expert guides for immersive 2026 Peru experiences.

Up to 12 people 4630 m / 15119 ft 4.9 (4895 views)

From $579

See Details
Turquoise waters of Humantay Lagoon

Rainbow Mountain and Machu Picchu

5 Day Moderate to Challenging

5-Day tour focusing on Cusco`s main highlights: Sacred Valley, the wonder of Machu Picchu, and the breathtaking adventure to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca).

Up to 12 people 4630 m / 15119 ft 4.9 (4895 views)

From $729

See Details
On the trail from Lares to Machu Picchu, girl with her llamas.

Andean Adventure - Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain & Humantay Lake

6 Day Moderate

Explore Machu Picchu, hike colorful Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), and trek to turquoise Humantay Lake on a 6-day Cusco adventure. Visit Sacred Valley`s Pisac and Ollantaytambo ruins with guided tours, train rides, hotels, and moderate hikes for immersive 2026 Peru experiences.

Up to 12 people 4630 m / 15119 ft 4.9 (4895 views)

From $749

See Details

Select a number to contact us

Sales AgentContact1
Sales AgentContact2