Machu Picchu Cultural Tour – 6 Days / 5 Nights
Book Your Tour Online
- All-Inclusive Tour Package
- Small-Group Experience
- Organized Departures
- Airport-to-Airport Transfers
Discover the Inca Heritage of Cusco, the Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu
Explore the history, architecture and living traditions of the Peruvian Andes on this 6-day Machu Picchu Cultural Tour. Discover the ancient capital of Cusco, explore the impressive archaeological sites of the Sacred Valley, visit the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu, and uncover the lesser-known cultural treasures of the South Valley.
This carefully organized journey combines guided archaeological visits, traditional Andean communities, spectacular landscapes and comfortable accommodation. Beyond the famous Inca sites, you will discover the agricultural terraces of Moray, the traditional salt pools of Maras, the ancient Wari city of Pikillacta and the beautiful colonial church of Andahuaylillas.
With five hotel nights, scenic train travel, professional bilingual guides and organized transportation, this package offers a comprehensive introduction to the cultural heritage of Cusco and Machu Picchu.
TIMING
6 Days /5 Nights
TRADITIONAL
Adventure trip
LIVE TOUR GUIDE
Spanish, English
HOTEL INCLUDED
3-stars categoryty
Essential Information About 6-Day Machu Picchu Cultural Tour
Prepare for an enriching journey! This guide provides the key details and practical information needed for your comprehensive 6-Day Machu Picchu Cultural Tour, ensuring a seamless and healthy experience.
Tour Details
- Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights
- Starting and ending point: Cusco Airport
- Tour style: Cultural, historical and archaeological
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Accommodation: 3-star hotels
- Guide languages: English and Spanish
- Departure: Subject to availability
- Price: From US$760 per person
Why Choose This 6-Day Machu Picchu Cultural Tour?
This tour is ideal for travelers who want to explore more than Machu Picchu during their stay in Cusco. Instead of focusing exclusively on the famous citadel, the itinerary introduces you to different periods of Andean history and the traditions that continue to shape the region today.
- Machu Picchu: Discover the extraordinary Inca citadel with a professional local guide.
- Cusco City: Explore important Inca and colonial landmarks in the former capital of the Inca Empire.
- Sacred Valley: Visit the archaeological sites and traditional market of Pisac and the impressive fortress of Ollantaytambo.
- Maras & Moray: Learn about ancient agricultural innovation and traditional salt production.
- South Valley: Discover the Inca engineering of Tipón, the pre-Inca Wari settlement of Pikillacta and the colonial art of Andahuaylillas.
- Comfortable accommodation: Enjoy five hotel nights in Cusco and Aguas Calientes.
- Organized transportation: Travel with scheduled tourist transfers, train tickets and Machu Picchu shuttle buses included.
- Local cultural knowledge: Learn about the region’s history, architecture and traditions from bilingual guides.
Key Highlights of the Machu Picchu Cultural Tour
Discover the best of Cusco and Machu Picchu on this six-day cultural journey through Peru’s most fascinating historical destinations.
- Explore the iconic Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
- Discover the archaeological treasures of the Sacred Valley, including Pisac and Ollantaytambo.
- Visit the impressive Maras Salt Mines and the circular agricultural terraces of Moray.
- Explore the ancient Inca water channels of Tipón and the pre-Inca Wari city of Pikillacta.
- Experience traditional Andean culture and textile weaving in Chinchero.
- Discover the beautiful colonial architecture of Andahuaylillas.
- Enjoy professional guided tours, comfortable accommodation and organized transportation throughout your journey.
Machu Picchu Cultural Tour – Brief Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco Arrival & City Tour
Airport pickup and guided exploration of Cusco’s historic landmarks and nearby Inca archaeological sites. Overnight in Cusco.
Day 2: Sacred Valley & Train to Aguas Calientes
Discover Pisac and Ollantaytambo before enjoying a scenic train journey to Aguas Calientes. Overnight in Aguas Calientes.
Day 3: Machu Picchu Guided Tour
Explore the legendary Inca citadel with your professional guide, then return to Cusco by train and tourist transport. Overnight in Cusco.
Day 4: Chinchero, Maras & Moray
Experience traditional Andean weaving in Chinchero and visit the remarkable agricultural terraces of Moray and Maras Salt Mines. Overnight in Cusco.
Day 5: South Valley Cultural Tour
Discover Tipón, the ancient Wari city of Pikillacta, and the beautiful colonial church of Andahuaylillas. Overnight in Cusco.
Day 6: Cusco Departure
Enjoy breakfast and a scheduled transfer to Cusco Airport for your departure.
Optional Experience: Huayna Picchu Mountain
Make your Machu Picchu visit even more memorable with an optional hike up Huayna Picchu Mountain. Enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the ancient citadel and surrounding Andes.
Additional entrance ticket required. Subject to availability and advance reservation.
6-Day Machu Picchu Cultural Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Cusco – City Tour & Inca Archaeological Sites
Your cultural journey begins when you arrive at Cusco Airport, where our team will welcome you and arrange your transfer to the hotel.
After checking in, take some time to rest and become familiar with the altitude of Cusco, located approximately 3,400 meters (11,155 feet) above sea level.
In the afternoon, discover the historic city of Cusco and its remarkable archaeological heritage. Begin at Qoricancha, the Temple of the Sun, one of the most important religious centers of the Inca Empire. Admire its impressive stonework and the fascinating combination of Inca foundations and colonial architecture.
Continue to the archaeological sites surrounding the city:
Sacsayhuamán: Explore the impressive stone walls and ceremonial spaces of this important Inca complex.
Q’enqo: Discover a fascinating ceremonial site associated with Inca religious practices.
Puka Pukara: Visit the archaeological complex traditionally associated with Inca administrative and military activities.
Tambomachay: Admire the sophisticated water channels and fountains that demonstrate the Incas’ knowledge of hydraulic engineering.
After the tour, return to Cusco and enjoy the evening at your own pace.
Highlights:
- Airport pickup and hotel transfer.
- Guided visit to Qoricancha.
- Exploration of the four archaeological sites surrounding Cusco.
- Introduction to Inca history, architecture and spirituality.
Overnight: Cusco.
Day 2: Sacred Valley of the Incas – Pisac, Ollantaytambo & Train to Aguas Calientes
After breakfast, begin your journey through the beautiful Sacred Valley of the Incas, a region known for its fertile agricultural lands, traditional Andean communities and remarkable archaeological sites.
Your first destination is Pisac, where you will explore the impressive Inca terraces, temples and archaeological structures overlooking the valley. You will also have time to visit the traditional artisan market, where local craftspeople display textiles, ceramics, jewelry and handmade souvenirs.
Continue along the Urubamba River through the spectacular landscapes of the Sacred Valley.
After lunch, visit Ollantaytambo, one of the best-preserved Inca settlements in Peru. Explore its impressive terraces, stone structures and archaeological complex while learning about its historical importance during the Inca period.
Later, travel to the train station and board your train to Aguas Calientes, the town located below Machu Picchu. Enjoy the changing scenery as the train follows the Urubamba River from the Andean valley into the greener cloud forest.
Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening before your Machu Picchu visit the following day.
Highlights:
- Explore the archaeological complex of Pisac.
- Visit the traditional Pisac artisan market.
- Discover the Inca fortress and town of Ollantaytambo.
- Enjoy the scenic train journey to Aguas Calientes.
Overnight: Aguas Calientes.
Day 3: Machu Picchu – Guided Tour of the Lost City of the Incas
Today is the highlight of your Machu Picchu Cultural Tour.
After breakfast at your hotel, walk to the bus station and board the shuttle bus for the scenic journey up to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
Upon arrival, meet your professional guide and begin exploring this extraordinary archaeological sanctuary, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
During your guided visit, discover the impressive architecture, agricultural terraces, ceremonial spaces and stone structures that reveal the engineering achievements of the Inca civilization.
The requested visit is Circuit 2 (Classic Machu Picchu), subject to official ticket availability and confirmation for your travel date. The exact route and entrance time will be confirmed according to the ticket issued.
After your guided exploration, enjoy the remaining time permitted by your entrance ticket to appreciate the surrounding mountains and take photographs.
Later, return by shuttle bus to Aguas Calientes and board your scheduled train to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, continue by tourist transportation to Cusco.
Highlights:
- Round-trip shuttle bus between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
- Official Machu Picchu entrance ticket.
- Guided archaeological visit.
- Discover the temples, terraces and ceremonial areas.
- Scenic return train journey through the Sacred Valley.
Overnight: Cusco.
Day 5: Tipón, Pikillacta & Andahuaylillas – Discover the South Valley of Cusco
Today, explore the fascinating South Valley of Cusco, an area that reveals different chapters of Peru’s pre-Inca, Inca and colonial history.
Your first stop is Tipón, an impressive archaeological complex famous for its sophisticated water channels, agricultural terraces and stone architecture. The site offers an excellent example of the Incas’ advanced hydraulic engineering and their relationship with the natural environment.
Continue to Pikillacta, one of the most important archaeological settlements of the ancient Wari civilization. Walk among its extensive stone structures, streets and plazas while learning about the culture that flourished in the Andes before the rise of the Inca Empire.
Your final destination is Andahuaylillas, home to the beautiful San Pedro Church, often known as the Sistine Chapel of America. Inside, admire its remarkable colonial murals, decorative artwork and artistic details that reflect the blending of European and Andean traditions.
After this cultural excursion, return to Cusco and enjoy your afternoon at leisure.
Highlights:
- Explore the Inca water channels and agricultural terraces of Tipón.
- Discover the pre-Inca Wari settlement of Pikillacta.
- Visit the historic San Pedro Church in Andahuaylillas.
- Learn about the different civilizations that shaped the Cusco region.
Overnight: Cusco.
Day 6: Cusco – Airport Transfer & Departure
After breakfast, enjoy your final morning in Cusco.
Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time to explore the historic center, visit local markets or enjoy a coffee in one of the city’s traditional cafés.
At the appropriate time, our team will arrange your transfer from the hotel to Cusco Airport for your departure.
Your six-day journey through the cultural and archaeological heritage of Peru comes to an end, leaving you with lasting memories of Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
Highlights:
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Free time in Cusco, depending on your flight schedule.
- Airport transfer.
End of services.
What Is Included in the Machu Picchu Cultural Tour?
Your six-day package includes the main services and arrangements described in the itinerary, allowing you to explore the Cusco region with organized transportation and professional guiding.
Accommodation
- Five nights in carefully selected 3-star hotels.
- Four nights in Cusco.
- One night in Aguas Calientes.
- Double, twin or matrimonial room arrangements.
- Daily hotel breakfast.
- Private bathroom and standard hotel amenities.
Transportation & Transfers
- Airport pickup and drop-off in Cusco.
- Tourist transportation for the scheduled excursions.
- Round-trip train tickets between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes.
- Round-trip shuttle bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
- Transfers included in the itinerary.
Entrance Tickets
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket.
- Cusco City Tour archaeological entrance fees.
- Sacred Valley archaeological entrance fees.
- Moray entrance ticket.
- Maras Salt Mines entrance ticket.
- Tipón archaeological entrance ticket.
- Pikillacta entrance ticket.
- Andahuaylillas Church entrance ticket.
Professional Guiding & Assistance
- Professional bilingual guides (English and Spanish).
- Guided visits to the main archaeological and cultural attractions.
- Historical and cultural explanations.
- Local assistance and tour coordination.
- First-aid equipment and emergency oxygen availability as described in the tour services.
What Is Not Included?
The following services are not included in the standard package:
- International and domestic flights.
- Lunches and dinners.
- Personal snacks and beverages.
- Travel insurance.
- Personal expenses and souvenirs.
- Laundry and additional hotel services.
- Tips for guides, drivers and hotel staff.
- Optional mountain permits and excursions not specified in the itinerary.
- Any service not expressly mentioned in the included section.
Machu Picchu Cultural Tour Prices
The following prices are per person in US dollars.
| Train Service | Experience | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Expedition Train | Comfortable and practical service with large windows | US$760 |
| Vistadome Train | Panoramic windows and enhanced scenic experience | US$830 |
| Vistadome Observatory | Premium train experience with an observatory carriage | US$900 |
Both private and group departures are available, subject to confirmation.
Optional Accommodation Upgrades
Single Room Supplement
For travelers who prefer a private room:
US$25 per night.
Total supplement for five nights: US$125.
Hotel Upgrades
You can request 4-star or 5-star hotel accommodation. These upgrades are quoted separately according to your preferences and availability.
Student & Child Discounts
A discount of US$35 per person is advertised for eligible students and children under 18, subject to the applicable identification and booking conditions.
Choose Your Train Experience
Expedition Train
A comfortable and practical option for travelers who want to enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the Sacred Valley while keeping their travel budget under control.
Vistadome Train
Features panoramic windows designed to provide excellent views of the Andes, the Urubamba River and the changing landscapes along the railway.
Vistadome Observatory
A premium option offering an enhanced scenic experience with an observatory carriage.
All train services are subject to availability for your travel date.
What to Pack for Your Machu Picchu Cultural Tour
Prepare for changing Andean weather with these essential items to enjoy your six-day journey comfortably.
Essential Documents
- Original passport (required for Machu Picchu entry and train travel).
- Travel insurance information.
- Credit card and cash in Peruvian soles.
- Personal medications.
Clothing & Footwear
- Comfortable walking shoes.
- Lightweight clothing and warm layers.
- Fleece or sweater for cool mornings.
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho.
- Sun hat, sunglasses and extra socks.
Daily Essentials
- Small daypack.
- Reusable water bottle.
- Sunscreen and insect repellent.
- Camera or smartphone.
- Power bank and personal toiletries.
Train Luggage
Train luggage space is limited. We recommend leaving your main suitcase at your Cusco hotel and taking a small overnight bag or backpack to Aguas Calientes.
Packing Tips
- Dress in layers to adapt to changing temperatures.
- Wear comfortable shoes for archaeological sites and uneven paths.
- Keep your passport and entrance tickets accessible.
- Pack light and carry only what you need for each excursion.
With these essentials, you’ll be ready to enjoy Cusco, the Sacred Valley and the wonders of Machu Picchu!
Important Information Before Your Trip
Arrival in Cusco
Your tour begins at Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) in Cusco.
International travelers generally connect through Lima before continuing to Cusco. Please allow enough connection time for immigration, luggage collection and domestic check-in when arranging your flights.
Our team will coordinate your Cusco airport pickup according to your confirmed arrival information.
Altitude in Cusco
Cusco is approximately 3,400 meters (11,155 feet) above sea level. Some travelers may experience altitude-related discomfort when arriving from lower elevations.
We recommend taking time to rest, staying hydrated and avoiding excessive physical activity during your first hours in the city.
If you have concerns about altitude or an existing medical condition, consult a healthcare professional before traveling.
Physical Requirements
This is a cultural sightseeing tour rather than a multi-day trekking expedition.
The overall difficulty is easy to moderate. However, archaeological sites include uneven stone pathways, steps and some uphill walking. Participants should be comfortable walking for several hours with breaks.
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users according to the current service information.
Machu Picchu Entrance Tickets
Your package includes a Machu Picchu entrance ticket.
Machu Picchu uses designated visitor circuits and routes. The requested Circuit 2 is subject to availability when the reservation is processed. If the requested route is unavailable, alternative options must be discussed and confirmed before the booking is finalized.
For official ticket information, consult the Peruvian Ministry of Culture’s Machu Picchu ticket platform.
Train Luggage
Train services have luggage restrictions, so we recommend traveling to Aguas Calientes with a small overnight bag or backpack.
You can arrange to leave your larger suitcase at your Cusco hotel, subject to the hotel’s luggage-storage policy.
Meals
Daily hotel breakfasts are included.
Lunches and dinners are not included, giving you the flexibility to discover local restaurants and enjoy traditional Peruvian cuisine throughout your journey.
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance that includes medical assistance, trip cancellation or interruption, and travel delays.
PLACES TO VISIT
- The Cusco City
- Sacred Valley of the Incas
- The Inca Ruins of Pisaq & Ollantaytambo
- The local market of Pisaq
- Machu Picchu
- Aguas Calientes town.
- The Inca Terraces of Moray
- The salt mines of Maras
- Pikillacta & Andahuaylillas
6-Day Machu Picchu Cultural Tour Video
Additional Information – Machu Picchu Cultural Tour
Booking Requirements
To arrange your Machu Picchu entrance tickets, train reservations and other services, please provide:
- Full name as shown on your passport.
- Passport number.
- Nationality and date of birth.
- Gender.
A deposit is required to confirm your reservation, with the remaining balance payable according to your booking conditions. All services are subject to availability.
Health & Physical Requirements
Cusco is located approximately 3,400 meters (11,155 feet) above sea level. We recommend staying hydrated, resting upon arrival and allowing time to acclimatize.
This cultural tour involves moderate walking, uneven paths and stone steps. It is not recommended for wheelchair users.
Why Travel With Our Local Team?
Planning a multi-day trip to Cusco and Machu Picchu involves coordinating entrance tickets, train services, accommodation, transportation and professional guides.
Our Cusco-based team helps coordinate these arrangements so you can concentrate on enjoying your journey.
Local Knowledge: Discover the region with a team familiar with Cusco, its archaeological heritage and Andean traditions.
Organized Travel: Your main transportation, accommodation and guided visits are arranged according to the confirmed itinerary.
Personal Assistance: Receive support with your tour arrangements and travel questions before and during your experience.
Responsible Travel: We encourage respect for local communities, traditional culture and the archaeological heritage of Peru.
Important Cancellation Policy
Due to the limited availability of Machu Picchu entrance tickets and advance reservations, confirmed bookings are subject to strict cancellation conditions.
- Confirmed bookings are non-refundable.
- Cancellations and no-shows are not eligible for refunds.
- Changes to travel dates, passenger names or permits are subject to availability and applicable restrictions.
Please review the booking and cancellation conditions carefully before confirming your reservation.
Frequently Asked Questions – Machu Picchu Cultural Tour
1. How many days does the Machu Picchu Cultural Tour last?
The tour lasts six days and five nights, beginning and ending in Cusco. It includes Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Maras, Moray and the South Valley archaeological sites.
2. What destinations will I visit during the tour?
You will visit Cusco, Qoricancha, Sacsayhuamán, Q’enqo, Puka Pukara, Tambomachay, Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Machu Picchu, Chinchero, Moray, Maras, Tipón, Pikillacta and Andahuaylillas.
3. Is the Machu Picchu entrance ticket included?
Yes. The standard package includes a Machu Picchu entrance ticket. The requested Circuit 2 is subject to official ticket availability and confirmation for your travel date.
4. Which train service is included?
The Expedition Train is the starting option at US$760 per person. You can upgrade to Vistadome for US$830 or Vistadome Observatory for US$900 per person.
5. How many hotel nights are included?
The package includes five hotel nights: four nights in Cusco and one night in Aguas Calientes.
6. Are meals included?
Daily hotel breakfasts are included. Lunches and dinners are not included.
7. Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes. This cultural itinerary can be suitable for families interested in history, archaeology and Andean traditions. Participants should be comfortable walking on uneven paths and archaeological steps.
8. Is the tour available as a private service?
Yes. Private and group departures are available. Contact our team to confirm the service arrangement and price for your preferred travel dates.
9. Can I upgrade my hotel?
Yes. You can request 4-star or 5-star accommodation. The additional cost depends on the selected hotel and availability.
10. Can I add Huayna Picchu Mountain?
Huayna Picchu is an optional mountain experience that requires a separate entrance permit. Its availability, entry time and additional cost must be confirmed for your travel date.
11. How far in advance should I book?
We recommend arranging your tour as early as possible, particularly during popular travel periods. Machu Picchu entrance tickets and train seats are subject to availability.
12. How do I reserve the tour?
Send us your preferred travel date, number of travelers and accommodation preferences. Our team will check availability and provide the applicable booking conditions and payment instructions.