4-Day Tour in Peru: Cusco, Machu Picchu, and the Sacred Valley
If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure that combines history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, this 4-day tour of Cusco, Machu Picchu, and the Sacred Valley is the perfect choice. Designed for those who want to explore the best of Peru in a short time, this itinerary will take you through the most iconic sites of the Inca Empire, from the majestic ruins of Sacsayhuamán to the enigmatic citadel of Machu Picchu. In this guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know to have a unique experience, with updated information, practical tips, and details that will make your trip unforgettable.
Detailed Itinerary of the 4-Day Tour
Your adventure begins in Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire and one of the most fascinating cities in South America.
Day 1: Welcome to Cusco and City Tour
Reception and transfer: Upon your arrival at Cusco Airport, our team will welcome you with a sign bearing your name and transfer you to your selected hotel. To acclimate to the altitude (3,400 meters above sea level), we recommend resting for a while and enjoying a coca tea, a traditional infusion that helps combat altitude sickness.
Cusco City and Surroundings Tour (1:00 PM – 6:30 PM):
In the afternoon, you’ll begin your exploration with a guided tour of the city’s most iconic landmarks:
- Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun): This impressive religious complex was one of the most sacred centers of the Inca Empire. Its finely carved stone walls are a testament to the advanced Inca engineering.
- Cusco Cathedral: Located in the Plaza de Armas, this colonial architectural gem houses religious artworks and a fascinating blend of Inca and Spanish influences.
- Sacsayhuamán: This ceremonial fortress, located just outside Cusco, is famous for its enormous carved stones, some of which weigh over 350 tons.
- Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay: These archaeological sites, located in the nearby hills, offer a unique insight into the ceremonial and military life of the Incas.
Helpful Tip: Wear comfortable clothes, walking shoes, and bring a camera to capture the incredible landscapes.
Day 2: Exploring the Sacred Valley of the Incas
The second day is dedicated to discovering the Sacred Valley of the Incas, a place full of history, culture, and stunning landscapes.
Sacred Valley Tour (8:00 AM – 7:00 PM):
- c: You’ll start the day by visiting the Pisac artisan market, where you can purchase textiles, pottery, and jewelry made by local artisans. Then, you’ll explore the impressive agricultural terraces and Inca ruins overlooking the valley.
- Buffet Lunch: Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, featuring traditional Peruvian dishes.
- Ollantaytambo: This living Inca village is famous for its fortress and cobblestone streets. You’ll explore the archaeological site, which includes terraces, temples, and an irrigation system that still functions today.
- Chinchero: On the way back to Cusco, you’ll visit this picturesque town, known for its traditional textiles and colonial church built on Inca foundations.
Fun Fact: The Sacred Valley was the main agricultural production center of the Inca Empire, thanks to its temperate climate and fertile soils.
Day 3: The Crown Jewel – Machu Picchu
The third day is the most anticipated: the visit to Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.
- Early Departure (5:45 AM – 6:00 AM): We’ll pick you up from your hotel and take you to the train station to board the train to Aguas Calientes (also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo).
- Train Ride: Enjoy a scenic journey through spectacular landscapes, with views of mountains, rivers, and valleys.
- Guided Tour to Machu Picchu: Upon arrival, you’ll take a bus to the entrance of the citadel. During the guided tour, you’ll explore iconic sites such as:
- The Main Plaza
- The Temple of the Sun
- The Intihuatana (sundial)
- The Temple of the Three Windows
- Free Time: After the tour, you’ll have time to explore on your own, take photos, or simply soak in the mystical energy of this place.
- Return to Cusco: In the afternoon, you’ll take the train back to Cusco and be transferred to your hotel.
Tip: Book in advance, as access to Machu Picchu is limited to 2,500 visitors per day.
Day 4: Farewell and Transfer to the Airport
The last day of the tour is dedicated to your transfer to Cusco Airport.
- Breakfast at the Hotel: Enjoy a final buffet breakfast before departing.
- Airport Transfer: We’ll pick you up from your hotel and take you to the airport with enough time to board your flight.
What’s Included in the Tour?
- Transfers: All transfers to and from the airport, hotels, and train stations.
- Transportation: First-class tourist transportation for all tours.
- Train: Round-trip train tickets to Machu Picchu.
- Entrance Fees: Admission to all archaeological sites and museums.
- Professional Guide: Certified bilingual guides (Spanish and English).
- Accommodation: 3 nights in selected hotels.
- Meals: 3 buffet breakfasts and 1 buffet lunch in the Sacred Valley.
What’s Not Included in the Tour?
- Meals Not Mentioned: Additional lunches and dinners.
- Beverages: Water, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages.
- Tips: For guides and drivers (optional but appreciated).
- Travel Insurance: We recommend purchasing insurance before your trip.
Tour Price
The price of the tour varies depending on the hotel category selected and the season. For a personalized quote, contact us through our website or social media.
Final Tips for Your Trip
- Acclimatization: Take it easy on the first day to adjust to the altitude.
- Luggage: Bring a small backpack for the tours and leave large luggage at the hotel.
- Documents: Don’t forget your passport and Machu Picchu entrance ticket.
- Weather: The weather in Cusco and Machu Picchu can vary, so bring warm clothing and a raincoat.
Why Choose This Tour?
This 4-day tour of Cusco, Machu Picchu, and the Sacred Valley is the perfect option for those who want to explore the best of Peru in a short time. With a well-planned itinerary, expert guides, and first-class services, we guarantee an unforgettable experience.
Book now and live the adventure of a lifetime in the heart of the Inca Empire!
Day 1: Welcome to Cusco and city Tour
Your adventure begins in Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire and a city that seamlessly blends ancient history with colonial charm. Upon arrival at Cusco Airport, you’ll be greeted by our friendly team holding a sign with your name. We’ll transfer you to your selected hotel, where you can rest and acclimate to the altitude (3,400 meters above sea level). To help with altitude adjustment, we recommend sipping on a traditional coca tea, a natural remedy used for centuries by locals.
In the afternoon, your exploration of Cusco begins with a guided tour of the city’s most iconic landmarks. First, you’ll visit Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun), a stunning example of Inca architecture and one of the most important religious sites of the empire. Its walls, once covered in gold, showcase the Incas’ advanced engineering skills. Next, you’ll head to the Cusco Cathedral, located in the Plaza de Armas. This colonial masterpiece houses an impressive collection of religious art, including paintings from the Cusco School.
The tour continues to the outskirts of the city, where you’ll explore the archaeological sites of Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay. Sacsayhuamán, with its massive stone walls, is particularly awe-inspiring. Some of its stones weigh over 350 tons and fit together so precisely that not even a sheet of paper can slide between them. These sites offer a fascinating glimpse into the Inca’s ceremonial and military life.
Pro Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a light jacket, as the weather in Cusco can change quickly.
Day 2: Exploring the Sacred Valley of the Incas
The second day is dedicated to discovering the Sacred Valley of the Incas, a region known for its fertile lands, picturesque villages, and impressive Inca ruins. After an early breakfast, we’ll pick you up from your hotel and begin the journey through this breathtaking valley.
Your first stop is Pisac, a charming village famous for its artisan market and archaeological site. At the market, you’ll find beautifully crafted textiles, pottery, and jewelry, perfect for souvenirs. Afterward, you’ll explore the Pisac ruins, perched high on a hill overlooking the valley. The terraces, temples, and irrigation systems here are a testament to the Inca’s agricultural ingenuity.
Next, you’ll enjoy a delicious buffet lunch at a local restaurant, where you can savor traditional Peruvian dishes like lomo saltado or quinoa soup.
In the afternoon, you’ll visit Ollantaytambo, one of the best-preserved Inca towns. Its fortress and terraces were built to protect the valley from invasions. Walking through its cobblestone streets feels like stepping back in time.
On the way back to Cusco, you’ll stop in Chinchero, a picturesque village known for its weaving traditions and colonial church built on Inca foundations. Here, you’ll have the chance to interact with local artisans and learn about their ancient techniques.
Fun Fact: The Sacred Valley was the breadbasket of the Inca Empire, producing corn, potatoes, and quinoa to feed its people.
Day 3: The crown jewel – Machu Picchu
The third day is the highlight of your trip: the visit to Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. We’ll pick you up early from your hotel and take you to the train station for a scenic journey to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). The train ride offers stunning views of the Andes, with lush valleys and winding rivers.
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, you’ll board a bus that will take you up the winding road to the entrance of Machu Picchu. Your guide will lead you through the citadel, explaining its history and significance. You’ll visit iconic sites like the Main Plaza, the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana (a ceremonial sundial), and the Temple of the Three Windows.
After the guided tour, you’ll have free time to explore on your own. Whether you want to take photos, meditate, or simply soak in the mystical atmosphere, this is your chance to connect with the energy of this ancient wonder.
In the afternoon, you’ll return to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included) before boarding the train back to Cusco. Upon arrival, we’ll transfer you to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Pro Tip: Bring a raincoat or poncho, as the weather in Machu Picchu can be unpredictable.
Day 4: Farewell and transfer to the airport
On the final day of your tour, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before we transfer you to Cusco Airport for your departure. Depending on your flight time, you may have a few hours to explore more of Cusco or pick up last-minute souvenirs.
As you board your flight, you’ll carry with you unforgettable memories of the Inca Empire, from the cobblestone streets of Cusco to the awe-inspiring heights of Machu Picchu.
Final Tip: Don’t forget to check your flight details and have your travel documents ready for a smooth departure.
This 4-day tour of Cusco, Machu Picchu, and the Sacred Valley is designed to immerse you in the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of Peru. With expert guides, comfortable transportation, and carefully planned itineraries, we ensure that every moment of your journey is unforgettable.