Tour to Cusco – Machu Picchu – Lima – Ica (9 Days)

The excursion to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu is a spectacular journey that takes you to the magical Inca city. You will visit amazing sites such as Cusco’s Main Square, the streets of Cusco, and the San Pedro Artisan Market. On day 2, we will visit the impressive Sacred Valley, including the ruins of Chinchero, Moray, the Maras Salt Mines, and Ollantaytambo.

You will also visit the mysterious Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu. This World Wonder is the highlight of Peru’s incredible Inca civilization. While exploring the Sacred Valley, travelers will discover fascinating Inca cultural sites in a short time.

During this Sacred Valley excursion, travelers may also enjoy additional activities around Machu Picchu within the same trip. This tour is highly recommended for any type of traveler who wishes to explore every corner of Machu Picchu. The Sacred Valley excursion includes an overnight stay in the beautiful Sacred Valley and in the town of Aguas Calientes, creating a unique and unforgettable experience. The return by Vistadome train with a live show will elevate your journey.

You will also have the opportunity to attend the Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo, featuring live traditional dance performances. The tour of the four ruins near Cusco will be amazing, showcasing the most important archaeological sites near the imperial city. On your last days in Cusco, you will explore Rainbow Mountain with its fascinating landscapes.

Afterwards, you will travel to Lima, where you will enjoy a city tour of the historic center, visiting the most important landmarks. You will also take a tour to Paracas and Huacachina, visiting highlights such as the Ballestas Islands, the Huacachina Oasis, sandboarding, and dune buggy rides.

 Cusco – Machu Picchu – Lima – Ica (9 Days)

  • Acclimatization to the altitude in Cusco and rest
  • Stunning landscapes in the Sacred Valley
  • Scenic train journey to Machu Picchu
  • Beautiful agricultural terraces and valleys
  • Impressive Inca sites in the Urubamba Valley
  • Cloud forest / high jungle scenery
  • The legendary Lost City of Machu Picchu
  • Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo with live dance shows
  • Visit to the four ruins near Cusco
  • A fascinating hike to Rainbow Mountain
  • Historic center of Lima city tour
  • Unique experience in Paracas and Huacachina, including dune buggy rides and sandboarding

General Itinerary – 9 Days

Day 01: Arrival in Cusco, hotel transfer, and altitude acclimatization
Day 02: Sacred Valley tour and overnight in the Sacred Valley
Day 03: Machu Picchu and overnight in Aguas Calientes
Day 04: Vistadome train return with live show from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
Day 05: City tour in Cusco
Day 06: Rainbow Mountain
Day 07: Flight to Lima and afternoon city tour
Day 08: Paracas and Huacachina tour
Day 09: Airport transfer and farewell

Language English, Spanish
Altitude Punto más alto: 3,400 metros
Transportation It is a complete itinerary
Difficulty Fácil. Es la opción más accesible

Upon your arrival in Cusco, our representatives will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the day will be free for you to rest and acclimatize to the altitude of the city.

You will also have the opportunity to explore Cusco, a city that blends Inca and colonial history, surrounded by the Andes. Its cobblestone streets and ancient temples invite you to discover the cultural richness of Peru, making it an unforgettable starting point for your adventure. You may visit the Main Square, the Sapantiana Aqueduct, and the San Pedro Market.

Overnight stay in Cusco.

• Meals included: none
• Hotel in: Cusco

Early in the morning, you will enjoy a good breakfast before heading to the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Our first stop will be in the town of Chinchero, where you will visit the archaeological site of Chinchero and enjoy a unique textile tradition experience in the area. It is also an excellent place to purchase high-quality textiles.

Continuing the tour, we will visit the Maras Salt Mines and the Moray Agricultural Laboratory, two iconic sites you cannot miss. The Maras Salt Mines feature more than 3,000 Inca salt pools, while Moray stands out for its impressive concentric circular terraces, which demonstrate the advanced Inca knowledge of microclimates and crop cultivation across Peru’s three regions: coast, highlands, and jungle. This is a unique and mysterious site in the Sacred Valley.

Afterwards, we will continue into the Urubamba Valley to enjoy a buffet lunch. Then, we will visit Ollantaytambo, a fascinating Inca fortress in the Sacred Valley with agricultural terraces and impressive structures, offering breathtaking views and a rich historical heritage.

You will spend the night in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. At the end of the tour, you will be transferred to your hotel.

• Meals included: breakfast and lunch
• Hotel in: Sacred Valley

After enjoying a good breakfast, we will transfer you to the Ollantaytambo train station. The scenic tourist train journey to Aguas Calientes offers an unforgettable experience, with panoramic views of the Andes and the Sacred Valley as you approach the town.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, our representative will meet you and accompany you to your hotel.

Aguas Calientes is a picturesque town surrounded by mountains, famous for its hot springs and welcoming atmosphere. At the scheduled time, you will board the bus to the Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu. Our expert guide will share stories about this iconic Inca citadel, an impressive archaeological treasure nestled in the mountains, offering breathtaking views of important sites such as the Temple of the Sun, the Sacred Sundial, the Temple of the Three Windows, the Main Temple, and the Sacred Rock.

This is a deep immersion into Inca history and culture. At the end of the guided tour, you will have free time to explore on your own. Afterwards, we will return by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you will have the afternoon free to explore the town or visit the hot springs.

You will enjoy an unforgettable night of rest in Aguas Calientes.

• Meals included: breakfast
• Hotel in: Aguas Calientes

Early in the morning, you will enjoy a good breakfast at the hotel. Then you will have free time to explore the town of Aguas Calientes in more depth. You may visit the butterfly sanctuary and the hot springs. You will also have time for lunch on your own.

At the scheduled time, proceed to the train station and board your train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. The journey lasts approximately one hour and forty minutes. During this trip, you will enjoy a live performance of traditional dances with colorful costumes, onboard service with drinks and snacks included, friendly assistance, and Andean details that will enhance your experience while traveling through stunning scenery.

Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, we will continue our journey back to the city of Cusco. You may take the opportunity to visit some museums included in your General Tourist Ticket (BTG). At 6:30 p.m., live traditional dance performances begin at the Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo, which is also included in the ticket.

Afterwards, you will head to your respective hotel in Cusco.

• Meals included: breakfast
• Transfer to airport: Cusco

After enjoying a good breakfast at the hotel, you will have the morning free to rest and relax before preparing for the next excursion.

At the appropriate time, we will pick you up to begin our city tour of the Imperial City of Cusco. Cusco is a living example of the blend between Andean and Spanish cultures. The tour will begin with a visit to the Convent of Santo Domingo, built on top of Qoricancha, the Inca Temple of the Sun, known for its impressive architecture.

The next stop will be the fortress of Sacsayhuamán, a magnificent example of Inca architecture, with its massive stone walls that amaze visitors from all over the world. We will then continue to visit the sites of Qenqo, Pukapukara, and Tambomachay.

After completing the tour, we will return to the city of Cusco and transfer you to your hotel.

• Meals included: breakfast
• Hotel in: Cusco

At 4:00 a.m., we will pick you up from your hotel to begin the journey to Rainbow Mountain. Our first stop will be in the town of Cusipata, where you will enjoy a good breakfast.

We will then continue to the starting point of the hike. The trekking time is approximately two hours. Along the way, you will enjoy stunning landscapes before reaching the summit.

Rainbow Mountain, or Vinicunca, is a geological wonder in Peru that amazes visitors with its vibrant, colorful stripes formed by natural mineral sedimentation. Located in the Cusco region, this unique formation offers an unforgettable visual experience and an exciting challenge for trekking lovers. Reaching the summit is a truly breathtaking experience, surrounded by the majesty of the Andes.

The summit can also be reached on horseback, offering a more comfortable and scenic alternative while enjoying the Andean landscape. After exploring the mountain, we will return to Cusipata to enjoy a buffet lunch. Finally, we will return to the city of Cusco, concluding the Rainbow Mountain tour.

• Meals included: breakfast and lunch
• Hotel in: Cusco

Early in the morning, you will enjoy a good breakfast at the hotel. At the scheduled time, depending on your flight itinerary, we will transfer you to Cusco Airport for your flight to the City of Kings, Lima.

Upon arrival in Lima, our representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel, where you will have time for lunch on your own.

At the scheduled time, we will pick you up from your hotel to begin the tour of Lima. We will head to the Historic Center of Lima, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, including the majestic Plaza Mayor, the Cathedral, and the San Francisco Convent, offering a fascinating journey into the history of Peru’s capital.

Next, we will visit the San Francisco Catacombs, an enigmatic underground labyrinth with niches and crypts containing human remains. This historic site offers an intriguing insight into colonial funerary practices and the city’s religious heritage.

We will then continue to Huaca Pucllana, an impressive pre-Inca adobe and stone pyramid used for religious and administrative ceremonies. Finally, we will end the tour in Miraflores, visiting the Love Park, a beautiful spot with stunning ocean views.

• Meals included: breakfast
• Hotel in: Lima

At 4:00 a.m., you will be picked up from your hotel. At 4:30 a.m., we will depart by bus towards Paracas. Upon arrival, you will enjoy a delicious breakfast.

We will then begin the tour to the Ballestas Islands, an exciting experience that offers close encounters with marine wildlife such as sea lions, penguins, and other species in a stunning natural environment. The tour is carried out by boat, revealing the rich biodiversity and beauty of the Peruvian coastline.

Afterwards, we will continue to the Huacachina Oasis, surrounded by golden sand dunes. This breathtaking desert oasis features a vibrant natural lagoon and offers exciting activities such as sandboarding and dune buggy rides.

The dune buggy experience in Huacachina is an adrenaline-filled adventure across the desert, with thrilling turns, jumps, and spectacular views of the oasis and surrounding landscape.

At the end of the tour, we will return to Lima, arriving at approximately 10:00 p.m. After this long journey, we will drop you off at your hotel.

• Meals included: none
• Hotel in: Lima

At the scheduled time, we will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to Lima Airport.

Saying goodbye to Peru means saying farewell to a country full of natural and cultural wonders. From the majestic Andes to the vibrant coastal cities, Peru leaves an unforgettable mark. The warmth of its people, along with the richness of its history and gastronomy, makes every departure a heartfelt “see you later,” filled with nostalgia and gratitude.

• Meals included: breakfast

Included in the 9-Day Cusco – Machu Picchu – Lima – Ica Tour:

  • Airport – hotel – train station transfers
  • 4 nights of hotel accommodation in Cusco
  • 1 night of hotel in the Sacred Valley
  • 1 night of hotel in Aguas Calientes
  • 2 nights of hotel in Lima
  • Entrance tickets to archaeological sites (General Tourist Ticket – BTG) for the Sacred Valley tour and the visit to the four ruins
  • Meals: lunches in the Sacred Valley and Rainbow Mountain
  • Breakfast included starting from Day 2 (except during the Huacachina tour)
  • Train tickets (Expedition class one way and Vistadome class return) Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo
  • Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
  • Bus tickets (round trip) Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
  • Professional tour guide service
  • Entry to Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo with live dance performances
  • Entrance to Rainbow Mountain
  • Entrance to Lima Historic Center
  • Tours to Ballestas Islands, Huacachina dune buggies, and sandboarding

Not Included in the 9-Day Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour:

  • International and domestic airfares
  • Entrance fee to Huayna Picchu
  • Upgrade to Vistadome train service from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
  • Dinners
  • Entrance fee to hot springs
  • Meals not described in the itinerary
  • Any type of beverages
  • Trekking poles for the Rainbow Mountain hike
  • Horse service for the Rainbow Mountain hike
  • Extra or personal expenses
  • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the Paracas and Huacachina tour

Recommendations:

  • Original passport
  • Warm clothing
  • Sunglasses
  • Sun hat
  • Comfortable shoes
  • Sunscreen
  • Rain poncho

Frequently Asked Questions

Train companies (PeruRail and Inca Rail) only allow one carry-on bag or backpack not exceeding 5 kg (11 lbs) and 62 linear inches (length + width + height). Larger luggage can be stored for free at your hotel in Cusco.

Yes, all of our standard shared guided tours are conducted with a maximum of 8 to 10 people per guide in Machu Picchu to ensure a close, personalized experience and optimal resolution of your questions.

Government entrance tickets to Machu Picchu and train tickets are personal and non-transferable, and their dates are rigid according to official policies. Therefore, rescheduling is subject to penalties and the availability of new tickets at the time of requesting the change.