Full Itinerary of Best of Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu Tour

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco – City tour (half-day)

We’ll meet you at Cusco airport and take you straight to your hotel in the city center. After check-in, enjoy a relaxed morning to settle in (We recommend getting a flight that arrives early to the city). Around 1:00 PM, your guide will pick you up from your hotel to start exploring Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire.

This afternoon covers the essentials: Plaza de Armas and its main landmarks, characterful streets and quarters, the famous Twelve-Angled Stone, Loreto Street, and the Qorikancha. Then we’ll drive to the hilltop sites: Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara (passing visit), Tambomachay, and the Cristo Blanco viewpoint (passing visit). We expect to be back in the city around 5:30 PM, an exciting first day and a smooth lead-in to some of the best Machu Picchu tours.

• Tour duration: half-day
• Entrance fee: Included in all places we visit.
• Meals are not included.
• Hotel: 3-star hotel San Agustin or Similar

Day 2: Sacred Valley – Maras Moray – Aguas Calientes (Full day)

At 7:00 AM, after a delicious breakfast, we’ll pick you up at your Cusco hotel and head to the Alpaca Center "Manos de la Comunidad" to meet South America’s camelids; llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and guanacos. A short 20-minute drive brings us to Taray Viewpoint for sweeping Sacred Valley panoramas. Next, we visit the Pisac archaeological site and its handicraft, where you can browse artisan goods and try your bargaining skills.

We continue through the Sacred Valley to Urubamba for a buffet lunch at a local restaurant and a taste of regional flavors.

After lunch, we explore the circular terraces of Moray, which showcase Inca agricultural innovation. Then it’s on to Maras salt mines, where salt is still harvested using Inca age-old methods. We finish the afternoon in Ollantaytambo, often called “The Last Living Inca Town”, home to remarkable examples of Inca stonework.

After dinner in Ollantaytambo, we board the Expedition train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) and settle into a local hotel, rested and ready for tomorrow’s highlight on one of the best Machu Picchu tours.

• Duration: Full day
• Entrance fee: Included in all places we visit.
• Meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.
• Hotel: Machu Picchu Ferre or similar

Day 3: Machu Picchu – Cusco (Full Day)

For the grand finale of your sacred valley Machu Picchu tour, we’ll rise before dawn and get ready for an unforgettable morning at Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas. After breakfast, we’ll head straight to the line to catch one of the first buses, aiming to enter before sunrise in the Inca citadel.

Your guide will lead a detailed 2–3 hour visit through the most notable bits of the citadel, like the viewpoints, the Guard House, the terraces, temples, and palaces through circuit 2. Afterward, enjoy free time to take amazing photos, or hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain on your own (permits should be secured well in advance). When your visit wraps up, you’ll take a bus to go down to Aguas Calientes and take the Expedition Train back to Ollantaytambo and continue by private van to Cusco, arriving at around 7:30 PM.

• Duration: Full day
• Meals: Breakfast
• Entrance fee: Included in all places we visit.
• Other Meals: Excluded
• Hotel: San Agustin or Similar

Day 4: Transfer out (At any time)

After breakfast in your hotel, you will be transferred to the airport or bus station.

Take note

Please keep in mind, If tickets for Circuit 2 at Machu Picchu are already sold out, don’t worry; we’ll offer you the best available alternative, like Circuit 3 or Circuit 1. To make sure you get your preferred option, we highly recommend booking your Machu Picchu trip as early as possible. Tickets are limited and sold on a first-come, first-served basis, so the most popular circuits and times go quickly!

Price of the Best of Cusco 4 days and 3 nights tours

We organize small group tours to ensure a personalized and intimate travel experience. For those traveling with a large party or seeking an exclusive adventure, we also offer a private Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu tour! Contact us today, and we'll give you more options of tours and design the perfect tour to meet your needs, ensuring an unforgettable journey.

Price per person

• From US$ 598 - Adults
• From US$ 568 - Children and students

Booking and payment

• To book the Cusco, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu 4 days tour, you must make an initial payment of 200 USD per person. The remaining can be paid online or at our office in Cusco, using any credit card, PayPal, or wire transfer. Contact us to see alternative payment options.

Student Discount

• US$ 30 off

Applies to all travelers under 17 and students under 25 with a valid university ID. To get the discount, the ID must include:

• Student name, photo, and university name.
• Have a valid expiration date (expired IDs will not be accepted)
• ISIC cards are not valid.

The discount is applied automatically for children. For students, you must submit a copy of your student ID when booking; if your ID is rejected, you will be charged the adult rate.

Similar tours to Machu Picchu you may like:

• Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour
• Classic Inca Trail 4 days
• Short Inca Trail 2 days

What to bring for my Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu tour 4D/3N

For take one of the best Machu Picchu tours, it's important to bring items that are comfortable for hiking. Early mornings in Cusco can be very cold, but the weather warms up once you reach Machu Picchu's cloud forest. Wear layers of warm and light clothing, and carry a small backpack where you can put snacks, water, jackets, and any other essentials you'll need during the trip.

Essentials

Packaging the essentials is important to make your visit comfortable and memorable.

• Passport or ID: You will need a valid passport or ID to enter Machu Picchu.
• Machu Picchu ticket: We will provide this on the tour day.
• Valid Student Card (if you booked as a student): The original student card must be issued by the university and is valid for students up to the age of 25. It must contain the following: university information, personal information of the student, a photo of the student, and a valid date no later than December 31 of the year of travel.
• Backpack: Bring a backpack to carry all your essentials and keep your hands free while exploring the site. The backpack must be a maximum of 25 liters; if you have a bigger backpack, pack it light and make it look small for Machu Picchu; otherwise, you will be requested to store it in the lockers.
• Insect repellent: Mosquitoes and other insects can be a nuisance in Machu Picchu.

Clothing and gear

• A good pair of waterproof hiking shoes or boots
• Underwear and socks: Best if they are moisture-wicking
• Moisture-wicking t-shirt
• Fleece or warm layer
• Quick-drying trekking pants made from lightweight fabric
• Lightweight and waterproof jacket
• Choose a comfortable, lightweight hat or cap that's easy to pack and store. Avoid bringing bulky items.

Accessories and extras

• Water bottle: Bring a refillable water bottle throughout the day.
• Sun protection: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses.
• Snacks: Bring snacks or energy bars to fuel you during your visit.
• Camera: Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the stunning views and memories of your visit to Machu Picchu.
• Cash: Bring some money as there are no ATMs inside Machu Picchu, and some vendors may not accept credit cards.

Prohibited items at Machu Picchu

When packing for Machu Picchu, there are certain items that you may want to leave to travel more comfortably and responsibly. Here are some things that you should avoid packing for your trip to Machu Picchu:

• Trekking poles with metal tips, tripods, umbrellas, parasols, and any sharp objects that damage and erode the stone surfaces of Machu Picchu.
• Bulky or heavy clothing: Machu Picchu has a warm and humid climate, even during the dry season. You should pack lightweight and breathable clothing.
• Large bags or suitcases: You'll need to carry your bags while traveling around the site, and there are strict size and weight limits for bags on trains and buses. Avoid packing large bags or suitcases and instead opt for a small backpack or daypack.
• Single-use plastics: As part of a responsible tourism initiative, visitors are encouraged not to bring or use single-use plastics at Machu Picchu. Bring a reusable water bottle and avoid packing disposable items such as plastic bags and straws.
• Drones: Drones are prohibited at Machu Picchu and can be confiscated by authorities.
• Illegal substances: As with any travel destination, bringing drugs or illicit substances.
• Overall, it's best to pack light and be mindful of the environment and local regulations when preparing for your Machu Picchu trip.

Cusco, Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu 4-day tour - Travel Info

You’ve booked this amazing tour with us and are ready to go…but what exactly will you visit at Machu Picchu? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Here are the key travel details. Sit back, relax, and let us help you get ready for the trip of a lifetime!

Circuits visited on this Tour

The Machu Picchu Tour on day 3 follows Circuit 2, which takes you through the citadel’s most complete side and key buildings, including the observatory, temples, houses, the Sacred Rock, the Temple of the Condor, and more. If Circuit 2 isn’t available, we’ll offer an alternative that fits your schedule. Please note: circuits are subject to availability depending on the season and visitor demand.

For more details about the different circuits in Machu Picchu, check out our Machu Picchu Tickets Guide.

Map of Circuit 2 in Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu entry: circuits, time slots, one‑way routes

There are 3 circuits split into 10 one‑way routes. Your ticket shows your circuit and start time, and you must follow that route. No re‑entry after you exit.

We aim to book Circuit 2 (the classic citadel route). If it’s sold out for your date/time, we’ll book the best available option. Book early for more circuit choices and morning slots.

Machu Picchu Circuit 1 — Panoramic (best viewpoints)

1‑A Machu Picchu Mountain

• Citadel (main site) + mountain hike with big panoramas.
• Max time inside: up to 7 hr.

1‑B Upper Terraces

• High viewpoints and the classic photo spots; less time in the urban area.
• Max time: 2 hr 30 min.

1‑C Intipunku (Sun Gate) (high season only)

• Panoramic approach and wide views.
• Max time: 4 hr.

1‑D Inca Bridge (high season only)

• Short walk to the bridge viewpoint.
• Max time: 3 hr.

Good if: you want elevated “postcard” views or the Machu Picchu Mountain hike.

Machu Picchu Circuit 2 — Classic — our default

2‑A Designed

• Complete walk through key areas (Intihuatana, Sacred Rock, Temple of the Condor) plus lookouts.
• Max time: 2 hr 30 min.

2‑B Lower Terraces

• Similar depth, with panoramas from the lower terraces.
• Max time: 2 hr 30 min.

Why we default to it: the richest route through the heart of Machu Picchu in a comfortable time window.

Circuit 3 — Lower entrance / urban areas (with mountain add‑ons)

3‑A Huayna Picchu

• Citadel + Huayna Picchu hike.
• Max time: up to 6 hr.

3‑B Designed (lower sector)

• Important temples and urban areas with gentler gradients.
• Max time: 2 hr 30 min.

3‑C Great Cavern / Temple of the Moon (high season only)

• Long hike on the Huayna side.
• Max time: 7 hr.

3‑D Huchuy Picchu (high season only)

• Shorter hike on the Huayna side.
• Max time: 3 hr 30 min.

Time slots & simple tips

• Entries are hourly. Arrive before your assigned time.
• Use the restrooms before you enter.
• Bring only a small daypack.
• No re‑entry after you exit.

Train & Luggage Rules (PeruRail/Inca Rail) + Bag Storage Options

Trains to Machu Picchu are carry‑on only. Both PeruRail and Inca Rail allow one small backpack/handbag up to ~8 kg (17–18 lb) with a max linear size of ~115–118 cm (height + length + width). Large suitcases aren’t accepted on board—plan to travel light on the train day. Pack the essentials: water, light layers, rain jacket, sunscreen, camera/phone, and meds. Keep your passport and Machu Picchu ticket/booking handy.

Where to leave big luggage:

• Cusco hotel or our office (most hotels keep bags safely for returning guests).
• Ollantaytambo: if you ride Inca Rail, there’s a luggage custody service at the station (bring a lock). Otherwise, ask your Sacred Valley hotel to store your suitcase—then board with a daypack only.

Pro tips for an easy ride

• Wear your warmest layer on the train (nights and tunnels can feel cool), and stash a compact rain layer on top of your bag.
• Label your daypack; keep valuables on you.
• The luggage rules are the same across Expedition/Vistadome/360° categories—upgrades change comfort and windows, not the baggage limit. When in doubt, we’ll double‑check your specific train before departure.

Machu Picchu Shuttle Bus (Consettur): Timetables, Queues & Return Times

The Consettur shuttle links Aguas Calientes ↔ Machu Picchu in ~25–30 minutes along the Hiram Bingham road. Buses run frequently; in high season they roll every 5–10 minutes. The first uphill bus is around 5:30 am; last uphill ~3:30 pm. For the return, buses run until ~5:30 pm. Your ticket is valid for the day (no assigned bus time), so you simply queue and board the next bus. Buy online or in town; bring your passport to purchase/board.

How to beat the lines

• For early entry slots (6–8 am), line up 45–60 min before your ticket time. In peak months (Jun–Sep), add a little buffer.
• Midday often sees the longest queues; carry water, sun protection, and patience.
• Returning down? Lines tend to swell after 2 pm. If you’re done earlier, descend before the rush; otherwise, enjoy the site and return after 4 pm for a calmer queue.

Where to buy: online at Consettur’s official site or at their Aguas Calientes office near the bridge (Avenida Hermanos Ayar). We can also handle bus tickets with your tour.

Altitude & Acclimatization: 4‑Day Plan to Feel Great in Cusco & Machu Picchu

Good news: Machu Picchu (2,430 m) and Aguas Calientes (≈2,040 m) are much lower than Cusco (≈3,400 m), so you’ll likely feel better as the trip goes on. Still, plan smart.

• Day 1 – Arrive & take it easy: Light meals, drink water, skip alcohol, and walk slowly. A gentle Cusco City Tour in the afternoon is perfect. Early night.
• Day 2 – Sacred Valley day: The Sacred Valley (e.g., Ollantaytambo ~2,792 m) is lower than Cusco, which helps. Keep hydrating, eat simple carbs, and use sunscreen—the sun is strong at altitude.
• Day 3 – Machu Picchu day: You’re at lower elevation now. Have a good breakfast, bring water and a light snack, and pace your steps on the terraces. If you’re eyeing Huayna Picchu/Machu Picchu Mountain, save energy and let us know in advance (permits limited).
• Day 4 – Fly out / explore more: You should feel adapted. If mild symptoms show up anytime (headache, short breath), rest, hydrate, and slow down. If you have heart/lung conditions or past altitude issues, speak with your doctor before travel about preventive options.

Quick checklist: steady water intake, small frequent meals, layers for cold mornings/warm middays, and sun protection year‑round.

Weather by Month & What to Wear (Cusco, Sacred Valley, Aguas Calientes)

Expect two seasons: rains (Nov–Mar; peak Jan–Mar) and dry (May–Sep), with shoulder months Apr & Oct. Cusco is coolest and driest (nights can be near‑freezing in Jun–Aug). Aguas Calientes/Machu Picchu Pueblo is milder and more humid year‑round. The Valley sits in between. Pack in layers.

Month‑by‑month quick guide

• Jan–Mar: wettest period. Expect showers and cloud cover. Bring a waterproof jacket/poncho, quick‑dry pants, and shoe covers.
• Apr–May: shoulder into dry season—greener views, fewer showers. Light fleece + shell works well.
• Jun–Aug: dry, sunny days; cold mornings and nights in Cusco. Pack a warm mid‑layer (fleece or packable puffer), hat/gloves for early starts, and high‑SPF sunscreen.
• Sep–Oct: warming up; occasional afternoon showers return—keep your rain layer handy.
• Nov–Dec: rains ramp back up; expect slick steps—grippy footwear helps.

What to wear any month: Comfortable walking shoes with tread, sun hat, sunglasses, and a light rain layer in your daypack. Remember: UV is strong at altitude, even on cool days. We’ll confirm your exact packing list a week before the tour based on the forecast.

Passport, Ticket & Student ID Requirements: Name Changes, Re‑issues & Refunds

Your ticket is personal and timed. The name and passport number must match your passport, and tickets are valid only for the date/time purchased. As per the Peruvian State platform’s terms, changes, refunds, or re‑issues aren’t allowed once paid—so double‑check your details before purchase and travel with the same passport you used to book (bring the old passport too if you renewed).

Student discounts: available to undergraduate students under 25 with a physical university ID (plastic card with name, photo, and validity). ISIC is not accepted. You must present the same card at the entrance together with your passport. Minors also receive discounts with valid ID.

A few important reminders

• Tickets are sold via the Peruvian State platform; circuits and time slots are enforced at the gate. No re‑entry once you exit the citadel.
• If your name has accents/middle names, use the passport format. For any mismatch or a new passport, tell us ASAP so we can advise the cleanest solution before your visit.
• This checklist avoids last‑minute surprises and keeps your entry smooth—just bring your passport, printed/e‑ticket, and (if applicable) student ID.

Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu tour - Frequently Asked Questions