This Machu Picchu Express tour offers the perfect experience for those looking to explore the region’s archaeological and cultural treasures in a short amount of time. It includes visits to Lima City and the breathtaking cloud forest citadel of Machu Picchu, providing an unforgettable journey through Peru‘s highlights.
Arrival in Lima
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Upon your international arrival in Lima, a representative will meet you at Lima International Airport and escort you to your hotel. There are no planned activities for the day, allowing you to check into your hotel and rest.
Exploring the City of Kings
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Enjoy breakfast at your hotel, with the morning free to relax and prepare for your unforgettable journey. In the afternoon, at 2:30 PM, embark on a guided sightseeing tour of Lima, the ‘City of Kings.’ This excursion combines the best attractions from Lima‘s three historical periods: pre-Hispanic, colonial, and contemporary. You’ll discover the ancient pre-Columbian cultures that thrived here thousands of years ago, learn about Lima‘s role in the Inca Empire, and its founding by Francisco Pizarro on January 18, 1535. Afterwards, return to your hotel for the night.
Cusco City and Inca Sites
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After breakfast, transfer to Lima Airport for your flight to Cusco. Upon arrival, a representative will meet you at Cusco Airport and escort you to your hotel. Enjoy a free morning to acclimatize to the altitude. At 1:30 PM, you will be picked up from your hotel for a guided sightseeing tour of Cusco. Visit Koricancha, the Temple of the Sun, one of the most important shrines during the Inca era, and the magnificent Cusco Cathedral in the main square. The tour continues to Sacsayhuaman, a megalithic fortress known for its colossal stones and extraordinary Inca architectural perfection, overlooking the city. Next, explore Qenqo, a unique limestone outcrop used for religious ceremonies. The tour concludes with visits to Puca Pucara and Tambomachay. Overnight at your hotel in Cusco.
Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and the Sacred Valley
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Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before embarking on a full-day tour of the impressive Sacred Valley of the Incas. Your first stop is the village of Qorao, offering picturesque landscapes for stunning photos. Continue to Pisac, where you’ll explore its archaeological site and vibrant Indian market. After lunch in the Sacred Valley, visit the magnificent Inca Fortress and Citadel of Ollantaytambo. This impressive structure was built to guard the valley entrance and protect against invasions from the lower jungle tribes, featuring a series of stepped, carved stone terraces accessed by long staircases. You will spend the night in Ollantaytambo.
The Lost City of Machu Picchu
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After breakfast, enjoy an early transfer to the nearby Ollantaytambo train station for your scenic train journey to the mysterious lost city of Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, transfer to the bus stop for a 25-minute ride up to the citadel. Once there, you will participate in a guided tour of Machu Picchu, visiting the Main Plaza, the Circular Tower, the Sacred Sun Dial (the most important preserved Intiwatana), the Royal Quarters, the Temple of the Three Windows, houses, warehouses, and a large central square, all connected by narrow roads and steps surrounded by terraces cut into the mountainside. After the tour, you’ll have free time to explore the archaeological site at your leisure. You’ll have the opportunity to walk (approximately 1 hour) up to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) or climb to the top of Wayna Picchu (requires separate booking and permit), offering a magnificent panoramic view of the entire sanctuary. In the afternoon, return by train to Cusco and transfer back to your hotel.
International Departure
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Enjoy breakfast at your hotel. At the appropriate time, transfer to Cusco Airport for your departure flight to Lima, where you will connect with your international flight back home.
A valid passport is required for both international and domestic flights. Wayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets are not included and must be booked well in advance due to limited availability.
For domestic flights, standard airline luggage policies apply, typically allowing one checked bag and one carry-on. For the train to Machu Picchu, there’s a strict luggage policy, usually allowing only one small backpack (approx. 5 kg/11 lbs) per person. Larger luggage can be stored at your Cusco hotel and retrieved upon your return.
The best time to visit Peru for this tour is during the dry season, from May to October. The weather is generally sunny and stable, which is ideal for sightseeing and exploring Machu Picchu. However, this is also peak season, so expect more crowds and book well in advance.
To minimize the effects of altitude sickness, we recommend spending your first day in Cusco relaxing and hydrating. Avoid alcohol and heavy meals. You can also try coca tea, which is traditionally used to alleviate symptoms. Consult your doctor about altitude sickness medication before your trip.
This tour is generally operated as a group tour. While the exact group size can vary, it typically ranges from 10 to 15 participants, allowing for a comfortable and engaging experience with your guide.
For your day trip to Machu Picchu, bring a small backpack with essentials such as your passport, water bottle, snacks, sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, a rain jacket or poncho, and a camera. Dress in layers as temperatures can change throughout the day.
Traveler Experiences
Recent comments
A very enriching experience, full of history and good coordination even with changing weather during the route.
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