MACHU PICCHU TEAM utilizes our own private transportation for all the overland segments. Our highly trained drivers guarantee a completely safe and comfortable transfer between all the Inca sites. The private format allows you to travel at your own pace, adjusting the stops according to your personal interests and physical energy.

During the first day, you explore the main archaeological remains surrounding the city, including the massive stone walls of Sacsayhuaman and the intricate water fountains of Tambomachay. You also visit the vibrant market in Pisac to observe local artisans. The second day takes you deeper into the Sacred Valley to examine the circular agricultural terraces of Moray and the ancient salt pools of Maras, before reaching the living Inca town of Ollantaytambo.

To reach Aguas Calientes, you will travel by train through the spectacular Andean canyon. You have the option to choose between 2 train companies based on your preferences. PeruRail offers a higher frequency of daily departure schedules. IncaRail provides a slightly different seating arrangement with panoramic windows to fully observe the natural environment.

Our guides are expert people in the subject of directing travelers from all over the world in multiple languages. They provide detailed historical explanations at every archaeological site. You will receive completely accurate facts rather than superficial summaries, giving you a deep understanding of the Inca civilization.

The meals provided during this route are of natural origin and prepared with local organic ingredients, supporting the agricultural communities. You can also opt for international gastronomy dishes during your free time. This option may lead to additional costs depending on the specific restaurant you choose. You can make inquiries about these food alternatives to our travel agency reservation team. A representative from MACHU PICCHU TEAM will be aware of your itinerary at all times to ensure flawless logistics.

Trip details

• Duration: 3 days and 2 nights of exclusive private travel and historical exploration.
• Starting Point: Cusco, Peru.
• Ending Point: Cusco, Peru.
• Group Size: Minimum of 2 people required for the private setup.
• Difficulty Level: Easy, requiring light walking on prepared paths and archaeological sites.
• Languages Available: English, Spanish, and additional languages upon request.
• Transportation Type: Our own private transportation with highly trained drivers, and train services.
• Guide Expertise: Expert guides in the subject of directing travelers from all over the world in multiple languages.

Trip Summary

Day 1: Cusco City Tour and Pisac Exploration

• 08:30 a.m. in the morning: The Tour starts with pickup at your hotel in Cusco.
• 09:00 a.m. in the morning: Visit Coricancha and the central market.
• 12:00 p.m. at noon: Eat a traditional lunch.
• 01:00 p.m. in the afternoon: Explore Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Pucapucara, and Tambomachay.
• 03:00 p.m. in the afternoon: Travel to Pisac and visit the ruins and market.
• 06:00 p.m. in the evening: Arrive at your hotel in Urubamba for the night.

Day 2: Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo, and Aguas Calientes Tour

• 08:00 a.m. in the morning: Eat breakfast at the hotel.
• 09:00 a.m. in the morning: Visit the circular terraces of Moray and the salt mines of Maras.
• 12:00 p.m. at noon: Explore the textile workshops in Chinchero.
• 01:30 p.m. in the afternoon: Eat lunch at a local restaurant.
• 03:00 p.m. in the afternoon: Visit the archaeological site of Ollantaytambo.
• 04:30 p.m. in the afternoon: Board the train to Aguas Calientes.
• 06:15 p.m. in the evening: Arrive and check into your hotel.

Day 3: Machu Picchu Exploration and Return to Cusco

• 05:00 a.m. in the morning: Eat breakfast at the hotel.
• 05:30 a.m. in the morning: Take the private transportation up to the Inca City.
• 06:00 a.m. in the morning: Visit Machu Picchu and start the guided tour.
• 08:30 a.m. in the morning: Have free time for personal exploration.
• 12:00 p.m. at noon: Return to Aguas Calientes for lunch.
• 02:30 p.m. in the afternoon: Travel by train back to Ollantaytambo.
• 04:15 p.m. in the afternoon: Board our own private transportation to Cusco.
• 06:30 p.m. in the evening: Arrive at your hotel in Cusco.

Included

Not Included

Private Service Rates by Group Size:

• For 2 people: 630 USD per person, tailored for small private groups.
• For 3 people: 590 USD per person, with shared private transport costs.
• For 4 people: 560 USD per person, increasing the overall value.
• For 5 people: 510 USD per person, highly economical for larger private sets.

Extra Mountains: Huayna Picchu Mountain costs an additional 60 USD. Machu Picchu Mountain costs an additional 60 USD.

Train Upgrades: You can upgrade to the Vistadome train for an additional 35 USD for one way, or 50 USD for a round trip.

Climate in the Cusco Area

The dry season from May to October provides sunny mornings and clear skies. The temperatures reach approximately 20 degrees Celsius during the day but drop significantly at night. The wet season from November to April brings frequent rain, usually in short but heavy bursts. The weather changes rapidly across the different valleys. You must carry a plastic rain poncho in your daypack, as the conditions at the high altitudes of Chinchero differ greatly from the lower areas of Aguas Calientes.

Local People and Culture

The residents in the Andean region are highly welcoming and maintain their traditions carefully. They speak Spanish and Quechua, while English is very common in the main tourist areas. The artisans in the Sacred Valley are very proud of their ancient weaving techniques. Sharing a polite greeting opens the door to good conversations. You must respect the local rules and ask for permission before taking close photographs of the people.

Common Meals

The food is of natural origin and with local organic ingredients. You can find excellent dishes featuring large corn, potatoes, and quinoa. In the towns, you have a wide variety of restaurants offering both traditional Peruvian meals and international gastronomy. The private format allows you to choose restaurants that perfectly match your preferences. You should definitely try the fresh trout caught in the nearby rivers or the traditional roasted guinea pig.

Free Places to Visit

During your free time in the evenings, you can walk around the main plazas of Urubamba or Aguas Calientes freely. In Cusco, you can explore the narrow streets of the San Blas neighborhood without paying any entry fee. Observing the large stone mountains from the lower valleys costs nothing and provides a great perspective.

Affordable Eating Spots

The central markets serve large plates of local food for under 5 USD. You can find thick soups or rice dishes very easily. Avoid the large restaurants located directly on the main avenues if you want to save money. Walking just a few blocks away from the main squares reveals excellent small eateries favored by the local residents.

Year Round Clothing

You must dress in layers. The early morning in the city is very cold, requiring a heavy jacket. By the time you reach the lower altitude of the historical sites during the afternoon, the temperature increases significantly, and you will need light shirts. Breathable materials are highly recommended. Your footwear must be comfortable enough for several hours of continuous walking on stone paths. I usually start the morning with a thick sweater and remove it as soon as the sun shines over the mountains.

Physical Effort and Health Needs

This 3 day private route does not involve strenuous hiking, but you will walk continuously through the different archaeological remains. The paths include uneven stone steps and dirt trails. You will reach altitudes over 3700 meters above sea level in Chinchero. You should spend at least 1 full day adjusting to the altitude in the city before taking this tour. Drink hot coca tea and eat light meals upon arrival. The private format allows the guide to adjust the walking pace entirely to your group’s physical condition, ensuring a comfortable experience for everyone.

FAQs

• Original Passport: Your physical passport is strictly required for identification at the train station, the hotels, and the entry controls of the Inca City.
• Student Card: Your original physical student card, if applicable, to verify your discount qualification at the time of your payment and entry.
• Daypack: A small backpack with a maximum capacity of 25 liters to carry your daily items without violating the entry rules.
• Rain Gear: A plastic rain poncho is extremely useful in sudden wet conditions common in the Andes mountain range.
• Warm Clothing: A warm jacket or heavy coat to handle the cold morning air in Cusco and the cool evenings in the Sacred Valley.
• Sun Protection: Sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher to protect your skin from the intense solar radiation at high altitudes.
• Headwear: A wide brimmed hat or a warm beanie for head coverage depending on the rapidly changing temperatures of the day.
• Sunglasses: Dark lenses with UV protection to guard your eyes against the intense glare of the high altitude sun.
• Walking Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or sturdy sneakers with good grip for the uneven stone steps inside the Inca constructions.
• Reusable Water Bottle: A container for constant refills, keeping your daily hydration easy while reducing plastic waste in the environment.
• Insect Repellent: A strong bug spray to avoid discomfort in the tropical outdoor zones near the river and the lower valleys.
• Electronic Devices: A camera or smartphone with a portable battery bank to take pictures of the archaeological remains without losing power.
• Local Currency: Cash in Peruvian Soles for minor transactions, extra meals, or buying souvenirs from the local artisans in Pisac or Chinchero.
• Personal Medications: Any specific items like pain relievers or pills for altitude sickness for your personal health needs during the trip.
• Light Shirts: Breathable layers to stay comfortable when the sun heats up the lower valleys during the afternoon hours.