9 Days / 8 Nights
MACHU PICCHU & MANU RAINFOREST TOUR
“Explore ancient Inca cities, breathtaking mountain landscapes and the incredible biodiversity of the Manu rainforest on one unforgettable journey through Peru.”
Iconic
Destinations
Nature &
Wildlife
Small Groups
Big Experiences
Local Experts
You Can Trust
Difficulty:
Easy to Moderate
Guide
English & Spanish
Accommodation:
3-star hotels + Amazon jungle lodges
Transportation
Tourist vehicle + scenic train + motorized boat
Start & Finish
Cusco
From the Inca World to the Amazon Wilderness
Explore Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and the extraordinary biodiversity of Manu National Park on one unforgettable 9-day journey through Peru.
This carefully designed Machu Picchu & Manu Rainforest Tour takes you from the high Andes to the cloud forest and deep into the Amazon rainforest.
Begin in Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire. Discover the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, then travel through the dramatic cloud forests toward the Amazon Basin, where river journeys, rainforest trails, colorful birds, monkeys and other wildlife become part of the experience.
Instead of choosing between Peru’s ancient culture and its extraordinary natural world, this itinerary lets you experience both.
From the Inca World to the Amazon Wilderness
- All-inclusve Tour
- Small-group Tours
- Guaranteed departures
Essential Information - Machu Picchu & Manu Rainforest Tour
AT A GLANCE
| Tour Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Duration | 9 Days / 8 Nights |
| Start | Cusco |
| Finish | Cusco |
| Destinations | Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Cloud Forest & Manu |
| Tour Style | Culture, Nature, Wildlife & Adventure |
| Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
| Languages | English / Spanish |
| Accommodation | 3-star hotels + Amazon jungle lodges |
| Transportation | Tourist vehicle, train & motorized boat |
| Machu Picchu | Guided visit |
| Amazon Activities | Rainforest walks, river travel & wildlife observation |
| Private Option | Available upon request |
WHY CHOOSE THIS MACHU PICCHU & MANU TOUR?
Two Worlds. One Journey.
Many Peru vacations make you choose between culture and nature.
This itinerary gives you both.
You begin among the stone streets and archaeological treasures of the Andes, walk through the Sacred Valley and stand before Machu Picchu.
Then the scenery changes completely.
The road descends through the cloud forest toward the Alto Madre de Dios, where mountains give way to tropical vegetation, rivers and rainforest.
The result is not simply a Machu Picchu vacation or an Amazon trip.
It is a journey across Peru’s incredible ecological and cultural diversity.
What makes this experience special?
- Machu Picchu with a professional guided visit
- Sacred Valley and important Inca sites
- Cloud forest and the dramatic Andes–Amazon transition
- Alto Madre de Dios River journey
- Manu rainforest and wildlife observation
- Parrot clay lick experience
- Local and naturalist guides
- Hotels and jungle lodges
- Personal assistance from a Cusco-based team
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Explore Machu Picchu
Walk through the legendary Inca citadel and discover its temples, terraces, ceremonial spaces and remarkable stone architecture with your professional guide.
Cross the Andes into the Amazon
Experience one of Peru’s most fascinating transitions as the landscape changes from high mountains to cloud forest and tropical rainforest.
Discover Manu
Explore a region renowned for exceptional biodiversity and experience the rainforest through guided walks, river travel and wildlife observation.
Watch for Amazon Wildlife
Keep your eyes open for parrots, macaws, monkeys, caimans, tropical birds, butterflies, amphibians and other rainforest species.
Experience a Parrot Clay Lick
Visit a clay lick where parrots may gather to consume mineral-rich clay. Wildlife behavior is natural and sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Travel With Local Knowledge
From Machu Picchu logistics to rainforest transportation, your journey is coordinated by a local Peru team familiar with the destinations you will visit.
9-DAY ITINERARY
DAY 1 — ARRIVAL IN CUSCO
Welcome to the Andes
Your journey begins in Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire.
Our team welcomes you at Cusco Airport and transfers you to your hotel.
The first day is intentionally relaxed so you can rest after your flight and begin adjusting to Cusco’s altitude.
If you feel comfortable, take a gentle walk through the historic center and discover the fascinating combination of Inca stonework and Spanish colonial architecture.
Highlights
- Airport pickup
- Private transfer to hotel
- Cusco historic center
- Free time for acclimatization
- Pre-tour information
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Cusco
Meals: None

DAY 2 — SACRED VALLEY OF THE INCAS → AGUAS CALIENTES
Discover the Sacred Valley Before Machu Picchu
After breakfast, travel into the Sacred Valley.
Depending on the confirmed itinerary, today’s experiences may include Awanacancha, Pisac and Ollantaytambo.
Explore archaeological sites, traditional Andean landscapes and local cultural traditions before continuing toward the train station.
Scenic Train to Aguas Calientes
Board the train toward Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.
As the train follows the Urubamba Valley, the landscape gradually changes from high Andean mountains toward cloud forest.
Highlights
- Sacred Valley
- Awanacancha
- Pisac
- Pisac market
- Urubamba
- Ollantaytambo
- Scenic train
- Aguas Calientes
Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Meals: Breakfast in the hotel

DAY 3 — MACHU PICCHU → RETURN TO CUSCO
Discover the Lost City of the Incas
Today is one of the highlights of the journey.
After breakfast, travel by shuttle bus from Aguas Calientes toward Machu Picchu.
Your professional guide will lead you through the designated route associated with your entrance ticket.
Machu Picchu’s current visitor system consists of three circuits divided into ten routes, so the exact route should be stated according to the ticket purchased for your travel date.
What you’ll discover
- Inca temples
- agricultural terraces
- ceremonial spaces
- stone architecture
- spectacular mountain scenery
- the history and engineering of the Inca civilization
After your Machu Picchu visit, return to Aguas Calientes and board your train toward the Sacred Valley/Cusco according to the confirmed itinerary.
Highlights
- Machu Picchu
- Professional guided visit
- Aguas Calientes
- Scenic train
- Return to Cusco
Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 4 — FREE DAY IN CUSCO
Explore Cusco at Your Own Pace
After Machu Picchu, enjoy a flexible day in Cusco.
Walk through the historic center, visit museums, explore local markets or simply relax.
Optional experience
Travelers looking for an additional adventure may request an optional excursion such as Rainbow Mountain, subject to availability and suitability.
Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 5 — CUSCO → PAUCARTAMBO → CLOUD FOREST
From the Andes to the Edge of the Amazon
Today the landscape changes dramatically.
Leave Cusco and travel through the Andes toward Paucartambo and the cloud forest.
Along the route, visit Ninamarca, known for its pre-Inca funerary structures, before continuing toward Paucartambo.
As the road descends, the environment changes from high-altitude Andean landscapes to humid cloud forest.
This transition is one of the most spectacular parts of the journey.
Wildlife in the Cloud Forest
Keep your eyes open for:
- colorful birds;
- orchids;
- butterflies;
- monkeys;
- and, with luck, the Andean cock-of-the-rock.
Wildlife sightings depend on natural conditions and cannot be guaranteed.
Highlights
- Ninamarca
- Paucartambo
- Cloud forest
- Wildlife observation
- Cock-of-the-rock search
- Scenic Andean-to-Amazon transition
Accommodation: Bamboo Lodge or confirmed equivalent
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

DAY 6 — ATALAYA → ALTO MADRE DE DIOS RIVER → JUNGLE LODGE
Enter the Amazon
After breakfast, continue toward Atalaya, where your journey changes from road to river.
Board a motorized boat and travel along the Alto Madre de Dios River.
The rainforest becomes increasingly dominant as you move deeper into the Amazon environment.
Machuwasi Lagoon
Depending on the confirmed itinerary and local conditions, explore Machuwasi Lagoon and surrounding forest trails.
Your guide will help identify birds, monkeys, insects, amphibians and plant species.
Learn From the Forest
This is not simply wildlife watching.
Your naturalist guide can explain:
- rainforest ecosystems;
- medicinal plants;
- animal behavior;
- local uses of plants;
- relationships between rivers, forests and wildlife.
Highlights
- Atalaya
- Alto Madre de Dios River
- Motorized boat
- Machuwasi Lagoon
- Rainforest walk
- Wildlife observation
Accommodation: Pantiacolla Lodge or confirmed equivalent
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

DAY 7 — AMAZON WILDLIFE & PARROT CLAY LICK
A Day in the Rainforest
Today is dedicated to experiencing the Amazon environment.
One of the highlights is an early visit to a parrot clay lick, where parrots may gather to consume mineral-rich clay.
The spectacle depends on weather, season and wildlife behavior.
Continue Exploring
Walk through rainforest trails with your naturalist guide and look for:
- parrots;
- macaws;
- monkeys;
- caimans;
- tropical birds;
- butterflies;
- amphibians;
- insects.
Depending on the lodge and conditions, additional activities may include:
- night walks;
- caiman observation;
- fishing;
- swimming;
- jungle walks.
Important
Wildlife is wild. No responsible operator can guarantee that you will see a particular animal.
The objective is to experience the ecosystem responsibly while maximizing opportunities for observation.
Accommodation: Pantiacolla Lodge or confirmed equivalent
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

DAY 8 — AMAZON → CLOUD FOREST → CUSCO
From the Jungle Back to the Andes
After breakfast, begin your return journey.
Travel by boat toward Atalaya and continue by road through the cloud forest and Andean highlands.
This route offers a final opportunity to appreciate the extraordinary ecological transition between the Amazon Basin and the Andes.
Highlights
- Alto Madre de Dios River
- Cloud forest
- Mountain landscapes
- Wildlife observation
- Return to Cusco
Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

DAY 9 — DEPARTURE FROM CUSCO
Until Your Next Peru Adventure
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before your scheduled transfer to Cusco Airport.
Your journey has taken you from:
Cusco → Sacred Valley → Machu Picchu → Cloud Forest → Amazon → Cusco
You leave Peru with two very different but equally extraordinary experiences:
the legacy of the Inca civilization and the biodiversity of the Amazon.
Meals: Breakfast
Airport transfer: Included
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
Transportation
- Private airport transfers in Cusco.
- Tourist transportation during the itinerary.
- Sacred Valley transportation.
- Scenic train to/from Machu Picchu according to the confirmed itinerary.
- Shuttle bus to Machu Picchu.
- Transportation between Cusco and Manu.
- Motorized boat transportation during the Amazon portion.
Machu Picchu
- Official Machu Picchu entrance ticket.
- Guided Machu Picchu visit.
- Bus transportation according to the confirmed itinerary.
Manu
- Entrance/permit fees included in the confirmed itinerary.
- Jungle excursions.
- Naturalist/local guide services.
- River transportation.
- Rainforest walks.
- Wildlife observation activities.
Accommodation
- 4 nights in Cusco.
- 1 night in Aguas Calientes.
- 3 nights in Amazon jungle lodges.
Accommodation: 3-star category hotels + jungle lodges.
Meals
According to the current itinerary:
- Breakfasts;
- selected lunches;
- dinners during the rainforest portion.
Please verify the final meal schedule before publishing.
Professional Guides
- English-speaking guide.
- Spanish-speaking guide.
- Naturalist guide during the Amazon portion.
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED?
Unless specifically stated in your quotation:
- International flights.
- Domestic flights Lima–Cusco–Lima.
- Travel insurance.
- Personal expenses.
- Tips.
- Meals not specifically listed.
- Alcoholic beverages.
- Optional excursions.
- Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain permits.
- Additional hotel nights.
- Personal equipment.
Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
For a multi-region trip involving high-altitude destinations, road travel, rainforest excursions and river transportation, comprehensive travel insurance is a sensible precaution.
OPTIONAL MACHU PICCHU MOUNTAIN EXPERIENCES
Want More Adventure?
Depending on ticket availability, you may request an additional mountain experience.
Huayna Picchu
A steep mountain route providing spectacular views toward Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountains.
Machu Picchu Mountain
A longer panoramic climb with views over the archaeological sanctuary and surrounding Andes.
Important
Additional entrance permits are limited and must be reserved in advance.
The availability, route and entry conditions depend on the official ticket system for your travel date.
WHAT TO PACK
Andes + Amazon Packing Essentials
Because this itinerary crosses very different climates, pack for both cool mountain conditions and warm, humid rainforest conditions.
Documents
- Passport
- Travel insurance
- Copies of important documents
- Emergency contact information
Andes
- Warm jacket
- Fleece
- Long pants
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Rain jacket
- Hat
- Sunglasses
Amazon
- Lightweight long-sleeve shirts
- Lightweight long pants
- Insect repellent
- Sun protection
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Small daypack
Wildlife
- Binoculars
- Camera
- Extra batteries/power bank
- Flashlight/headlamp
Personal
- Medication
- Toiletries
- Reusable water bottle
- Personal snacks
Machu Picchu Manu Rainforest Tour Prices
Price Per Person
| Train Category | Price (US$) | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Expedition Train | US$1,160 | Excellent value, comfortable seating, and an authentic travel experience. |
| Vistadome Train | US$1,230 | Panoramic windows for enhanced views of the Andes. |
| Vistadome Observatory Train | US$1,300 | Premium panoramic experience with live entertainment and observation car. |
All prices are per person and based on double or triple room occupancy.
Accommodation Upgrades
The standard package includes carefully selected 3-star hotels and comfortable jungle lodges.
Optional Upgrades
If you prefer higher-category accommodations, boutique hotels, or luxury lodges, we can customize your itinerary according to your travel style and budget.
Simply contact our travel specialists for a personalized quotation.
Single Room Supplement
Travelers requesting a private room can add:
- US$25 per night
- Total supplement for 5 hotel nights: US$125
Reservation is recommended.
Student & Child Discounts
We offer special savings for younger travelers.
Discount Available
- US$35 discount per person
- Valid for students and children under 18 years old.
- Passport or valid student identification required.
This makes the Machu Picchu Manu Rainforest Tour even more accessible for families and young adventurers.
Train Options to Machu Picchu
Your train journey through the Sacred Valley is one of the highlights of the trip. While all trains follow the same spectacular route, each category offers a different level of comfort and viewing experience.
Expedition Train – Best Value
The Expedition Train is perfect for travelers seeking comfort and affordability. Featuring comfortable seating and large windows, it provides an enjoyable journey through the stunning Andean landscapes.
Vistadome Train – Enhanced Scenic Experience
The Vistadome Train features panoramic windows that extend along the sides and roof of the carriage, allowing you to fully appreciate the breathtaking scenery on the way to Machu Picchu.
Vistadome Observatory Train – Premium Experience
For travelers seeking the ultimate rail experience, the Vistadome Observatory Train offers:
- Extra-large panoramic windows.
- Open-air observation carriage.
- Live cultural entertainment.
- Complimentary onboard services.
- Outstanding photography opportunities.
The journey becomes an unforgettable part of the adventure itself.
Why Our Prices Offer Outstanding Value
When comparing Peru tour packages, it is important to consider what is included. Many tours charge additional fees for transportation, entrance tickets, guides, and jungle excursions.
With our Machu Picchu Manu Rainforest Tour, most essential services are already included, allowing you to enjoy a seamless experience while benefiting from one of the most competitive prices on the market.
You are not simply booking a tour—you are securing a complete Andes and Amazon adventure led by experienced local professionals.
Reserve Your Space Today
The Machu Picchu Manu Rainforest Tour is one of our most popular multi-day Peru experiences, especially during the dry season from April to October.
Machu Picchu permits, train tickets, and lodge availability are limited. We strongly recommend booking in advance to secure your preferred travel dates and train category.
Experience the magic of Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Manu National Park on one unforgettable journey at an exceptional price.
ESSENTIAL TRAVEL INFORMATION
What to Know Before Your Andes & Amazon Adventure
The Machu Picchu & Manu Rainforest Tour takes you from the high Andes and Inca heritage of Cusco and Machu Picchu to the cloud forest and Amazon rainforest of Manu.
Accommodation: Stay in comfortable hotels in Cusco and Aguas Calientes, followed by rainforest lodge accommodation. Properties are subject to availability and confirmed in your final itinerary.
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate. No previous trekking experience is required, but you should be comfortable with walking, uneven terrain, long transportation days, boat travel and Cusco’s high altitude.
Weather: Expect significant changes in climate. April–November is generally the recommended season for Manu, while December–March is wetter and may bring changes to roads, trails and outdoor activities.
Wildlife: Manu offers exceptional biodiversity and opportunities to observe birds, monkeys, reptiles and other rainforest species. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.
Responsible Travel: Respect wildlife, local communities and protected areas. Follow your guide’s instructions, stay on designated trails and leave no unnecessary trace.
Booking: Machu Picchu tickets, trains, accommodation and Amazon services are subject to availability. Your confirmed itinerary will provide the final details of your journey.
PLACES TO VISIT
- Cusco city
- Sacred Valley of the Incas
- Pisaq & Ollantaytambo
- Local market of Pisaq
- Machu Picchu
- Aguas Calientes town
- Paucartambo
- Manu National Park
9-Day Machu Picchu & Manu Rainforest Adventure Video
Can't wait to start your journey? Take a sneak peek at the incredible destinations and experiences awaiting you on the 9-Day Machu Picchu and Manu Rainforest Tour with our immersive virtual overview.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION – MACHU PICCHU & MANU RAINFOREST TOUR
Everything You Need to Know Before You Travel
Planning a journey from the Andes to the Amazon is easier when you know what to expect.
The Machu Picchu & Manu Rainforest Tour combines cultural exploration, scenic travel, rainforest experiences and wildlife observation across some of Peru’s most remarkable landscapes.
Below you’ll find practical information to help you prepare for your 9-day adventure.
WHAT TO EXPECT
From the Inca World to the Amazon
This journey brings together two very different sides of Peru.
Your adventure begins in Cusco, continues through the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, and then descends through the cloud forest toward the Manu rainforest.
Along the way, you can expect:
- Ancient Inca history and archaeological sites
- Spectacular Andean landscapes
- A guided visit to Machu Picchu
- Cloud-forest scenery
- River transportation in the Amazon
- Rainforest walks and nature experiences
- Opportunities for wildlife observation
- Local and naturalist guides
- Comfortable hotels and jungle lodge accommodation
The experience is designed for travelers who want to combine Peru’s cultural heritage with its extraordinary natural diversity in one carefully organized itinerary.
WHY CHOOSE THIS MACHU PICCHU & MANU TOUR?
Experience More of Peru in One Journey
A typical Machu Picchu visit can introduce you to the history of the Andes.
This itinerary goes further.
After exploring the Inca world, you continue into the cloud forest and Amazon rainforest, experiencing a dramatic change in landscapes, climate and biodiversity.
This journey is ideal if you want to:
- Visit Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley
- Experience the transition from the Andes to the Amazon
- Explore rainforest environments
- Look for native wildlife in its natural habitat
- Travel with local guides
- Combine culture, nature and adventure
- Experience more of Peru beyond its most famous archaeological sites
One itinerary. Two extraordinary worlds.
DEPARTURE & RETURN INFORMATION
Start and Finish in Cusco
The tour begins and ends in Cusco, making it convenient for travelers arriving through Lima or continuing their Peru journey from the historic Andean capital.
Tour Duration
9 Days / 8 Nights
Departure
Your journey begins in Cusco with the services included in your confirmed itinerary.
Return
You return to Cusco at the end of the Amazon portion of the journey, followed by your scheduled departure transfer when included.
Important
Exact departure times can vary depending on transportation schedules, weather, local operating conditions and the confirmed itinerary.
Your final travel information will include the specific times and meeting points for your trip.
IMPORTANT TRAVEL RECOMMENDATIONS
Prepare for Different Climates
This journey crosses several ecological zones, from the high Andes to the humid Amazon rainforest.
Pack for:
- Cool mornings and evenings in Cusco
- Strong Andean sunshine
- Rain and changing weather
- Warm and humid rainforest conditions
Layered clothing is the most practical option.
Allow Time to Acclimatize
Cusco is located at approximately 3,400 meters (11,155 feet) above sea level.
Take your first day slowly, drink water and allow your body time to adjust to the altitude.
Travel Light
A practical daypack is useful throughout the journey, particularly during train travel, sightseeing and rainforest excursions.
Protect Your Belongings
Rain and humidity are part of the Amazon environment.
Protect cameras, phones, documents and other electronic equipment with waterproof bags or appropriate protection.
Bring Your Essential Documents
Keep your:
- Passport
- Travel insurance information
- Emergency contact details
- Important booking information
easily accessible throughout the trip.
HEALTH & SAFETY
Travel Prepared
The itinerary combines high-altitude travel, road transportation, walking, rainforest excursions and boat travel.
You should be comfortable with changing environments and moderate amounts of walking.
For a more detailed explanation of physical requirements, altitude and preparation, see our Difficulty & Physical Requirements section.
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that includes appropriate medical and emergency coverage for your trip.
If you have concerns about altitude, mobility, existing medical conditions or other health issues, consult your doctor before traveling.
CANCELLATION & BOOKING CONDITIONS
Please Check the Current Policy Before Booking
Cancellation, refund, payment and modification conditions can vary according to the services included in your itinerary.
Some reservations, such as entrance tickets, transportation services or accommodation, may be subject to specific supplier conditions.
Your quotation and booking confirmation will provide the applicable terms and conditions for your reservation.
If you have questions about cancellation, changes or refunds, please contact our team before making your payment.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is this a trekking tour?
No. The Machu Picchu & Manu Rainforest Tour is primarily a cultural, nature and wildlife journey. It includes walking and rainforest excursions but is not a dedicated multi-day trekking expedition.
Is previous trekking experience required?
No previous trekking experience is required. However, travelers should be comfortable walking on uneven terrain and participating in rainforest excursions.
Does the tour include Machu Picchu?
Yes. The itinerary includes a guided Machu Picchu visit and the services specified in your confirmed booking.
Will I see wildlife in Manu?
Wildlife sightings are possible but never guaranteed. Natural conditions, weather, season and animal behavior all influence what you may see.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, rain protection, sun protection, insect repellent, a small daypack, personal medication and your travel documents.
Is the tour suitable for families?
The itinerary can be suitable for families depending on the children’s age, health, mobility and tolerance for long transportation days and rainforest conditions.
What is the best time to travel?
The best travel period depends on your priorities. For the Manu portion, SERNANP currently identifies April through November as the recommended visiting season. Weather conditions can still vary during this period.
Can I request a private tour?
Private arrangements may be possible depending on availability and the services required. Contact us with your preferred dates and group size.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking as early as possible, particularly if you are traveling during popular periods, because Machu Picchu tickets and other services have limited availability.
What happens if the weather changes?
Weather can affect road travel, river transportation and outdoor activities. If operational or safety conditions require changes, our local team will assist with the appropriate alternative according to the confirmed itinerary.
Expedition Train – Best Value
Vistadome Train – Enhanced Scenic Experience
Vistadome Observatory Train – Premium Experience