tours from lima to machu picchu

Machu Picchu Tours from Lima

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10 best Machu Picchu tours from Lima

Compiled by

Melissa Lima travel expert at TourRadar

A South Peru Adventure

Inca adventures - 7 days (lima and cusco) with domestic flights, machu picchu adventure, best of peru, inca treasures, lares trek experience 8d/7n (lima to cuzco), lares trek experience 9d/8n (lima to lima), inca trail express from lima, classic inca trail, journeys: explore machu picchu national geographic journeys.

• Hiking & Trekking
• Christmas & New Year
• Tour the iconic Machu Picchu
• Camp near the mystical Choquequirao
• Hike the stunning Rainbow Mountain

“I feel like my Andean experience got richer because of the plan B. The best part about getting a 'complete package' with Unu Raymi, was that I never needed to pay the various taxes or fees.”

• Sightseeing
• Hike the vibrant Mountain of Colors
• Tour Machu Picchu, a world wonder
• Discover Inca terraces and salt mines

“The tour was excellent and the tour guides were very accommodating and patient.”

• Tour the Sacred Valley and traditional weaving co-op
• Explore Lima with a local cooking class
• Discover Cusco's markets and optional city tour

“The Guides, especially Rive in Cusco and Machu Picchu, were outstanding. Our group was awesome and we are even talking about a reunion tour!”

• Tour the Larco Museum's pre-Columbian artifacts
• Explore Lima's historic UNESCO-listed old town
• Visit Moray and Maras in the Sacred Valley

“From the airport to the hotels, pick up, drop off, tour guides and all the tours were all excellent.”

• Tour the Larco Museum's pre-Columbian art
• Experience Cusco's Santo Domingo Convent and Sacsayhuaman
• Explore Lima's historic downtown and cathedrals

“Everything was well organized, reception, transfer, tours, itinerary, and local guides. We had a beautiful vacation, highly recommend it!”

• Trek through Lares with local guides
• Discover Cuzco's ancient streets
• Tour Machu Picchu at sunrise

• Mountain Hikes
• Discover Cuzco's Inca and colonial heritage
• Trek through the scenic Lares and meet locals
• Tour the iconic Machu Picchu early morning

“It was a great experience! The cook and the guide did their best, I really appreciate their efforts.”

• Discover Cuzco’s beautiful colonial architecture
• Visit Choquequilla to worship the moon
• Trek the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

“This was a well organised and structured trip.”

• Tour Cusco and its ancient Inca ruins
• Visit Chinchero and the Maras salt mines
• Trek the historic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

“We lacked for nothing. He was very considerate of my impaired hearing.”

• Tour the iconic Machu Picchu with a guide
• Explore ancient Inca ruins in the Sacred Valley
• Learn about astronomy at the Cusco Planetarium

“I really enjoyed the tour. For a more immersive cultural experience, it would have been nice to interact more with the local community.”

Tours starting from Lima

Discover TourRadar

Editor Picks: The Best Machu Picchu Tours from Lima

Discover one of the true humanmade wonders of the world, Machu Picchu, on these incredible tours from Lima, Peru.

(Photo: Tourradar.com)

One of the great wonders of the world, Machu Picchu was constructed in the 1400s for Inca emperor Pachacuti. During the Spanish Conquest it was abandoned and lay unknown to the outside world until 1911 when American historian Hiram Bingham came across it. Not surprisingly, it features on the wish list of many travellers. Being remote and at an altitude of 2,430 meters, tours are an increasingly popular way to get there, especially from Peru’s capital city Lima.

Machu Picchu Adventure

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the distance from Lima to Machu Picchu and the difficulty of reaching the revered site in the first place mean that longer tours are more common. Adding-in the time required to acclimatize to the Andean altitude and to visit some of the other landmarks in the region, you’ll see your money stretch so much further, the longer the tour you take. This eight-day trip is top value and a highly competitive itinerary, which includes time to explore Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu. From $1,500 per person.

Book at Gadventures.com

Explore Machu Picchu

Another popular iteration of the eight-day tour from Lima to Machu Picchu involves taking the train from Ollantaytambo to Agua Calientes (the main stop for people attempting to reach Machu Picchu). The train is a great way to explore the Andean landscape, and a perfect introduction of what is to come. Beyond the tour to Machu Picchu, you will also be able to visit the Inca salt pans at Urubamba, and many other Inca ruins, such as the temples and plazas of Pisac. From $1,935 per person.

(Photo: Intrepidtravel.com)

Inca Trail & Amazon Adventure

Explore the worlds of Incas and Amazons on a 12-day tour with Intrepid, where real emphasis is put on experiencing Machu Picchu in the most genuine way possible. For most people, this means hiking the Inca Trail, a challenging but fascinating three-day trek through the Andes, slowly gaining altitude as you go. This also means seeing the ruins at sunrise, before the main tourism buses, which drive up from Aguas Calientes, start to dilute the experience. This is a round-trip tour from Lima. From $2,085 per person.

Book at Intrepidtravel.com

Peruvian Highlights

Start out by crossing the Andes by plane to Puerto Maldonado, gateway to Peru’s Amazon Rainforest on this eight-day tour of the country. You’ll spend a few days in a jungle lodge amid the monkeys, birds and other wildlife before stepping back into an Andean land steeped in traditional South American history. From Cusco to Machu Picchu, you will see the finest examples of Inca architecture and pieces of their civilization left behind. This tour ends in Cusco. From $2,179 per person.

Book at Contiki.com

Sacred Land of the Incas

This final tour from Lima sees guests embark on an immersive, 15-day cultural tour of the so-called Sacred Land of the Incas. During the trip you’ll visit some incredible destinations, including the Peruvian side of Lake Titicaca, and trek to Machu Picchu on the Inca Trail. You’ll also take an exhilarating walk through the Amazon rainforest at night, and a tour of a cocoa museum in Cusco. As with all tours on this list, all hotel accommodation, plus an expert guide, most meals and transport are included. From $3,230 per person.

Book at Tourradar.com

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Cusco , Machu Picchu , Travel Tips

Getting from Lima to Machu Picchu

Discover the best ways to get from Lima to Machu Picchu in 2024 . Public bus, hop-on hop-off bus, train or plane. We have all of the info!

Lima to Machu Picchu – The most complete guide ever written, updated every 3 months! We show you the various ways of getting from Lima to Machu Picchu, analyzing planes, buses, treks, and trains! Contact us if you have any questions at all that we may help with.

Did you know: Peru Hop was setup by 2 Irish guys in 2013 and has been voted #1 Travel Company in Peru for 2024 – Click here for more info .

Brief Summary (much more detail below):

To get from Lima to Machu Picchu, you need to first get to Cusco. You have the following options:

• Go from Lima to Cusco by bus. The route via Huacachina (Desert Oasis), Arequipa (Colca Canyon), and Puno (Floating Islands on Lake Titicaca) is recommended. Peru Hop is the best option, with Cruz del Sur being the best of the rest.
• Go from Lima to Cusco by plane. Latam is by FAR the best airline, do not book with cheaper airlines that cancel regularly. IMPORTANT: by taking a plane direct to Cusco instead of a bus, you will need more time to acclimatize to the altitude.
• Once in Cusco, the best way to Machu Picchu is to take a Tour with a reputable tour company as it can be complicated to organize entrance tickets, train tickets, bus transfers, and a guide (you CANNOT enter Machu Picchu without a guide), and you often save money (as well as stress) by taking a tour or trek. We strongly recommend Yapa Explorers , based on their variety of tours to Machu Picchu, reliability and our passengers’ feedback!

Getting from Lima to Machu Picchu and deciding on the best transport and tour companies is not always easy, but below we have compiled over 10 years of knowledge into the most complete guide ever written, helping you to choose what’s best for you given your time constraints and budgets. Scroll below for info on trains, treks, and more.

Contents of this page:

STEP 1: Getting from Lima to Cusco

STEP 2: Getting from Cusco to Machu Picchu

• Trekking your way to Machu Picchu
• Getting to Machu Picchu Quickly
• Getting to Machu Picchu Cheaply
• Pricing and Practical Information

STEP 3: Lima to Machu Picchu – How To Book

• Lima to Cusco by bus or plane
• Cusco to Machu Picchu by bus or train

Lima To Cusco By Bus: What You Need To Know

To get to Machu Picchu from Lima, you first need to get to Cusco.

Cusco is almost 10,000ft above sea level and separated from Lima by the Andes Mountains. This means altitude problems often affect tourists who go directly to Cusco and altitude sickness is very common.

Experts recommend taking a bus to Cusco (stopping along the way) as the ascent to Cusco is then more gradual and recent statistics launched by the Peruvian Tourism Board have shown that bus travelers are 3 times LESS likely to be affected by altitude than those who travel via plane.

Buses in Peru are safe as long as you go with formal companies like Peru Hop or Cruz del Sur. A non-stop journey to Cusco (not recommended) takes around 22hours, so it is STRONGLY recommended you break up the trip with stops at the incredible Huacachina Oasis or Arequipa and Puno.

THINKING OF VISITING MACHU PICCHU?

Full South to Cusco

Enjoy the full experience from Lima to Cusco with Peru Hop.

Bus Routes to Cusco – what you MUST know:

Buses in Peru are very safe as long as you go with formal companies. The accidents that do happen are often with informal companies (the cheapest-priced companies). Informal companies offer low prices compared to the best companies such as Peru Hop or Cruz del Sur and often cut corners on safety to reduce costs.

There are 2 main routes from Lima to Cusco by Bus:

Route A: LIMA – NAZCA – CUSCO (Direct but not recommended):

This route takes you from Lima to Nazca and then travels through the Andes mountain range, passing Abancay before arriving in Cusco approximately 22 hours later.

This is the fastest way from Lima to Cusco by bus, however, it has a bad reputation. There have been many bus crashes and hijackings along this route. The winding roads are both curvy and steep and are especially dangerous in the rainy season. It is best to avoid this route to Cusco.

Route B: LIMA – NAZCA – AREQUIPA – CUSCO (strongly recommended):

This route takes you further down south from Lima to Arequipa and then takes you back up North from Arequipa to Cusco.

The road is much safer and there is also a LOT to see along the way. Recommended stops include Paracas , Huacachina , Arequipa , and Puno if you have time. This is the most common route taken in Peru and exposes tourists to the beauty of Peru along the way to Machu Picchu.

Peru Hop Bus

Peru Hop are the most popular bus company in Peru. The company has a 96% rating on TripAdvisor from more than 3,000 reviews. However, before deciding whether to book with them, take the following into account:

• Peru Hop sell bus passes that cover all/some of the destinations between Lima and Cusco. The “quickest” pass to Cusco is the 3 days/2 night option with overnight local stops included along the way
• Peru Hop is more suited for those with a little more time (e.g. more than 6/7 days in Peru). If you have less than 6 days in Peru, it is probably worth taking the direct buses to Cusco

To fully understand how Peru Hop works click here .

Cruz Del Sur Bus

Cruz del Sur is the second-best bus company in Peru and has a reasonably good safety record. Their buses are excellent with bed-like seats on many of their buses. Before deciding whether to book with them, take the following into account:

• For direct buses from Lima to Cusco, they take the direct route that we do not recommend above.
• To go the safest route, you would need to buy a Lima to Arequipa ticket and then a Arequipa to Cusco ticket.

Booking on their website is quite straightforward, and whilst they have don’t have excellent TripAdvisor reviews, they are still definitely one of the best bus options in Peru.

If you are nervous about flying, then it is best to avoid Lima to Cusco by plane, as the flight has to cross over the Andes Mountains, turbulence is very common. This mixed with Cusco’s rain and stormy weather makes for some nervous moments.

One of the biggest issues with flying from Lima to Cusco is the altitude and the fact that you have gone from sea level to 10,000ft+ very quickly. This is not good for your body and is the reason why approximately 75% of tourists report feeling ill for their first 2 days in Cusco after flying.

If you plan to travel by plane, we strongly recommend Latam Airlines, as the “cheaper” airlines often cancel based on our experience.

Finally, if traveling by plane, make sure you do some day trips from Lima or day trips from Cusco to see other parts of Peru as well, as it would be a shame to come to Peru and “only” see Machu Picchu!

Train enthusiasts might get disappointed when visiting South America because there aren’t as many trains in operation here. Although uncommon, there is a way to take at least part of your trip by train.

The only train to Cusco leaves from Puno. The train from Puno to Cusco is the Andean Explorer, a luxury tourist train that will take approx. ten hours to get to Cusco during a scenic day trip. Fares are quite expensive – a one-way trip will cost at least $280, it is a very luxurious experience.

STEP 2: Getting From Cusco To Machu Picchu

So whether by bus or by plane, you have made it from Lima to Cusco! Now it is time to get from Cusco to Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu lies about 80 kilometers northwest of Cusco, although that sounds close, it is actually quite far given the Andes Mountains are blocking a direct route!

There are 2 main ways of getting from Cusco to Machu Picchu:

A – Taking a trek from Cusco (usually between 3 and 5 days depending on what trek you choose)

B – By Bus & Train combination (possible in 1 long day, or 2days/1 night)

A – Trekking your way to Machu Picchu

There are 3 popular treks to Machu Picchu, each of which we will discuss further below, in no particular order:

1. OFFICIAL INCA TRAIL

This is by far the most famous way to get to Machu Picchu and the most famous trek in South America. Only 500 people are allowed on the trail each day, including porters and guides. It is necessary to get a permit to trek the trail. To secure a permit you must book six months in advance , costing around $650-$1250.

If you are willing to plan that far in advance you will not be disappointed. The trail winds through the Andes overlooking snow-capped mountains as well as cloud jungle forest. You will arrive at Machu Picchu just in time to watch the sunrise from the sun gate .

Most Inca trail treks are 4 days with three nights camping but there are options for 2, 5 and even 7 days. The difficulty of the trek is moderate to hard.

2. SALKANTAY TREK

The Salkantay trail is a good alternative for those not wanting to wait six months to see the citadel. Salkantay is the name of a mountain in la Cordillera Vilcabamba. The Salkantay pass takes you to altitudes above 4600m , which makes the already challenging trail that much more difficult. Prices range from $230 to $300 for a 4-day hike that you need to book a few days in advance.

3. INCA JUNGLE TREK

If you aren’t an experienced trekker and walking for four days straight isn’t your cup of tea, maybe the Inca Jungle Trek would be perfect for you. It is the most varied trek out there, and with prices ranging between $220 and $300, it is also the cheapest. This trek offers biking, hiking, ziplining and rafting on your way to Machu Picchu.

Important tips on picking your Tour or Trek Operator for Machu Picchu:

• Do not just opt for the cheapest company – this is usually a BIG mistake. You don’t want to get left behind somewhere in the jungle (it happens) so shop around and see who provides the best responses to your questions and concerns
• If you don’t have time to spend a day interrogating tour operators in Cusco, check FindLocalTrips , which lets you compare operators’ itineraries and prices all in one location. Everything is in clear English too, which is not always the case when contacting tour operators directly.
• Avoid companies like G Adventures, Bamba Experience, Intrepid etc – their markup is more than 100%. If you go directly to the trek operators (e.g. via their websites or with FindLocalTrips then you will see the prices are usually a LOT cheaper.
• Make sure you know what your tour includes. Every good trek to Machu Picchu will include your entrance ticket to Machu Picchu (with the option for Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu), your accommodation, food (with exception of the last day) and your transport back from Machu Picchu to Cusco, usually by the train.

Best way to get from Lima to Cusco: The Full South to Cusco pass is the best option to get to Machu Picchu without missing out on any of Peru’s other hidden gems along the way.

B – Getting to Machu Picchu Quickly via Bus & Train

A one day tour is the fastest way to get to Machu Picchu. It involves taking a 2-hour bus ride to Ollantaytambo (winding roads through the Mountains), a 90-minute train to Aguas Calientes, a bus up to the complex itself, a guided tour of Machu Picchu, a bus down from the complex and a train ride back so you can arrive in Cusco in the late evening. Prices start from $230. Tour operators can be found here

If you prefer, you can also spread the journey over two days for a similar price, spending the night in Aguas Calientes town.

Getting to Machu Picchu Cheaply (NOT recommended)

Editor Note: It is NOT recommended to follow this route due to safety concerns and accidents in the past. We STRONGLY recommend booking a tour or trek with a reputable company.

To get to Machu Picchu cheaply you need to combine a couple of different modes of transport. Firstly take a taxi to the Santiago Terminal in Cusco and get a local bus to Santa Maria. It is advisable to go early.

From Santa Maria, continue your journey to Santa Teresa. There are a bunch of minivans stationed on the square in the town. They will take 45/60 minutes of bumpy road through the jungle to Santa Maria. Here in Santa Maria you then need to book a taxi to Hidroelectrica.

Be aware that the roads between Santa Maria, Santa Teresa and Hidroelectrica are in really bad condition and the minibus vans or taxis will take you along sheer cliff-sides and hairpin turns. This is extremely dangerous in the dark and during the rainy season, do exercise caution when considering this option.

From Hidroelectrica you will follow the Inca train trail tracks by foot (the road ends here) to Aguas Calientes. It is a flat hike and should not take more than 3 hours. Leave early enough so you don’t get stuck walking in the dark. Avoid getting hit by the train and watch out for packs of stray dogs.

Once in Aguas Calientes you can hang out and call it an early night. The next morning you have two options to go to the Inca Citadel:

• By bus: It is recommended to go early in the morning to Machu Picchu, so start waiting in line at 4.30-5.00am. The earliest bus leaves at 5.30 and the latest at 15.30. A one-way ticket costs 12 dollars.
• On foot: the walk up Machu Picchu is basically a lot of stairs. It is demanding but if you take your time and leave around 4-4.30, it should be manageable. You could see it as part of your experience or maybe you want to keep all your energy for exploring the complex or your hike up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.

Machu Picchu – Pricing and practical information

• Inca Trail Treks sell out MONTHS in advance due to limitations from the government
• Machu Picchu Inca Jungle Trek and Salkantay Trek can usually be booked 1 or 2 days before, except in July high season when you should book at least a few days in advance
• 1-day and 2-day tours by bus & train should be booked in advance
• For further tips about what to bring and things like that, check out our Machu Picchu page here

Lima To Machu Picchu – How To Book

Step 1: lima to cusco.

Bus Options:

• Public Bus – you can search bus tickets on Cruz del Sur’s website here . Remember to book Lima to Arequipa and then Arequipa to Cusco
• Private Bus with stops – you can search Peru Hop tickets here . Choose whatever pass suits your time schedule.

Flight Options:

• Plane – you can search plane tickets directly on Latam’s website here

STEP 2: Cusco to Machu Picchu

Trek Options

• Inca Trail (4 days) – search and compare operators here
• Inca Jungle Trek (3 or 4 days) – search and compare operators here
• Salkantay Trek (4 or 5 days) – search and compare operators here

Tour Options:

• 1 Day Tour – search and compare operators here
• 2 Day/1 Night Tour – search and compare operators here

IMPORTANT: If you would like to organize a full complete trip: learn everything you need to know about Machu Picchu tickets or check out our passes to find the perfect option!

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• Salkantay Mountain
• Machu Picchu
• Ollantaytambo
• Colca Canyon
• Lake Titicaca
• Sacred Valley of the Incas
• Amazon Rainforest
• Nazca Lines
• Choquequirao
• Walking & Trekking Tours
• Short Hikes & Tours
• Cultural Discovery
• Family Holidays
• Pristine Rainforest
• Multi-Adventure Tours
• Peru Travel Packages
• Luxury Holidays Tours
• Inca Trail Alternative Treks
• 2025 Tickets & Guide
• San Martin School
• Reusable snack bags
• Reforestation with Native Trees
• Essentials Peru
• The best time to visit Peru
• What to bring on a Hike
• Things to do in Peru
• Getting to Machu Picchu
• Inca Trail Trek & Tours FAQs
• Camping Equipment
• How to Book & Payment
• Booking terms & conditions
• Coronavirus Travel Policy

Machu Picchu Tour from Lima

2 Day train tour to Machu Picchu  is one of the most stress-free trips available. Transportation and lodging are completely taken care of, and travelers on the Machu Picchu overnight get to experience the beautiful, ancient Incan city without several days of hiking. 

While this more demanding option appeals to some, the ease of the train ride (with beautiful views of the landscape) to Aguas Calientes, a night in a comfortable hotel, a tour of the city, and transportation home sound more appealing to many tourists. 

Machu Picchu 2 day tour is an especially good travel option for seeing the historical location if pressed for time, for anyone who missed the chance to reserve a spot on the Inca Trail but still wants to see the city, for families with small children, or for those who are less physically able. Machu Picchu is a Wonder of the World and should be available to all people who want to visit, not just those who can hike long distances.

In the lost citadel we can explore the area, seeing the markets and crafting houses around the site. Interacting with people of the area while learn the custom of each one.

Already climbing to the lost city of the Incas where is the principal attraction, we have to up among the beautiful trees, exploring the ruins and take the pictures we can estimate the magnificence of monuments and the panoramic views from Huayna Picchu mountain to the lost citadel.

Lima to Machu Picchu Overview

Sustainable Tourism :  Inca Trail Machu  is very keen and happy to promote and practice sustainable tourism by being eco-friendly and supporting local communities

Service level : Comfortable service and accommodation private

Machu Picchu Tour Operator : Inca Trail Machu

Crew : Inca Trail Machu Representative in Cusco and a professional tour guide at Machu Picchu .

Age Requirements : 2+ (All travelers under the age of 18 years must be accompanied by an adult!).

Meals: 1x breakfast, 1x snack bag

Accommodation : Hotel in Machu Picchu (Double, Matrimonial or single room with private bathroom)

Transportation : Transportation by private vehicle, a train round trip.

2 Day Machu Picchu Tour From Lima

Quick itinerary:.

Day 01: Lima - Cusco - Machu Picchu 06:40 - Flight from Lima to Cusco. 08:00 - Arrival to Cusco and transfer to the train station. 09:30 - Ollantaytambo train station. 11:15 - Train from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu town (Aguas Calientes). 12:55 - Arrival and transfer your hotel Susana Inn 3* (Single room with private bath). 13:10 - Free time, you can explore the small town and have a lunch (not included). 16:00 - Our guide will be visiting your hotel for your briefing (20 min approx).

Day 02: Machu Picchu - Cusco - Lima 05:30 - Wake up and transfer to the bus station. 06:00 - Tourist bus to Machu Picchu. 07:00 - Enter to Machu Picchu. 07:30 - Guided Tour in Machu Picchu (2 hrs). 12:30 - Bus down to Machupicchu Town (Aguas Calientes). 13:00 - Arrival and have a lunch (not included). 14:30 - Train return to Ollantaytambo. 16:10 - Arrival to the train station and transfer from Ollantaytambo to the airport. 19:45 - Flight from Cusco to Lima.

Highlight of Machu Picchu Day Tours :

• A comfortable and quick way to get to Machu Picchu.
• Opportunity to view the Sacred Valley of the Incas as well as subtropical nature on the way to the Inca citadel.
• Guided tour of Machu Picchu.
• Time off to explore and discover Machu Picchu on your own.
• An opportunity to climb Huayna Picchu  Mountain.

Machu Picchu tours from Lima

Did you think that Machu Picchu was at the Lima and you are surprised that it's not there? " Inca Trail Machu tour operator " have the best trip option to Machu Picchu for you. We can offer you the 2 day Machu Picchu tour from Lima . We provide local flight tickets from Lima to Cusco. Once you arrived at Cusco. Our driver will be waiting in the airport and will take you to the train station to Machupicchu Town (Aguas Calientes) where you'll spend the nigth.

The second day. Wake up early and take the bus up to Machu Picchu then you'll start the citadel visit itadel with a professoinal tour guide. In the afternoon you will take the train from Machupicchu Town (Aguas Calientes) back to Ollantaytambo train station. Upon the arrival you'll be transfer from the train station to the Cusco airport. Finally catch a night flight from Cusco to Lima. Here you have the best itinerary for your holidays, please let us know if we can help you to organize it. If you have questions, you can contact by WhatsApp:   +51997434941 , our staff will reply ASAP. or you can send us by emiail your doublt:  [email protected] .

Extra Optional Activities in Machu Picchu Tour

Mandor water fall walk tour.

It is well known that the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and the Salkantay Trek are the most adventurous and famous experiences around Machu Picchu, however this is an extra option for those who are looking for a peacefull, light walk to one of the  least known tourist destinations.

From Machupicchu Town (Aguas Calientes) you'll walk for about 1hr throug a landscape of abundant vegetation crowned by the 30-meters  Waterfalls of Mandor, you are welcome to get into the cool, crisp pool this waterfall makes, but be forewarned — it’s quite chilly!

Our professional guide will pick you up from your hotel and bring you back once the excursion is over.

Machu Picchu Waterfall walk

Did you know there is a magic waterfall just minutes from Machupicchu Town? a local guide will take you through a botanic garden to this peaceful and unknown place. Amazing landscapes for the whole family. After a pretty easy and short walk, you'll be ready to make your own apacheta at the Machu Picchu Waterfall.

Rock Carving

Inca Trail Machu is working with local artists from the "Rumimaki Carvers Association". Develop a new talent with a group of professional carvers who will teach you the ancient Peruvian technique of rock carving.

A 2 hours lessons that finish with your own piece of art. What are you waiting for?.

Machu Picchu Hike

• Short Inca Trail
• Machu Picchu hike 3 days
• Inca Trail 4 days
• Salkantay Trek
• Choquequirao Trek
• Lares trek to Machu Picchu
• Inca Quarry Trek

Day 01: Lima - Machu Picchu

The Machu Picchu tours from Lima commence as our transfer picks you up from Astete International Airport and transports you to the railway station, either at Poroy (40 minutes from Cusco) or Ollantaytambo (1 hour and 40 minutes from Cusco). Boarding a train, you'll enjoy a scenic 1 hour and 45 minutes journey through diverse landscapes, passing lush fields and vibrant villages nestled in the foothills of the Andes. The route offers breathtaking views of mountains and the magnificent Urubamba River flowing through the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Upon reaching Aguas Calientes , a town below Machu Picchu, our Representative greets you at the railway station and guides you to the hotel.

The first day doesn't involve a Machu Picchu tour. Instead, you settle into your hotel, and the remainder of the day is free. You can explore the thermal baths (hot springs) and the charming surroundings of Aguas Calientes or engage in additional activities in Machupicchu town, such as a walk to Mandor Waterfall , a rock carving tour, and more.

Day 02: Machu Picchu - Lima

On the second day of the Machu Picchu tour from Lima , an early wake-up precedes your transfer to the bus station. There, you board a shuttle bus for a 25-minute journey along a zigzag path to the archaeological complex of Machu Picchu.

Upon arrival, your Tour Guide introduces Circuit 1 or 2 , showcasing key attractions like the main square, Sun Temple, Intiwatana (Sun Clock), Royal Rooms, Temple of the Three Windows, and Royal Incas Cemetery. This guided tour lasts about 2 and a half hours. Following this, you have the option to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for breathtaking panoramic photos of Machu Picchu. Don't forget your camera to capture this visit to "One of the New 7 Wonders of the World"!

After exploring the site, take a shuttle bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included) at one of the many restaurants offering traditional Andean and international cuisine. You can then choose to visit the thermal baths of Aguas Calientes or the Museum of the Site (entrance not included).

In the afternoon, board a train back to Ollantaytambo, where our driver awaits you in front of the railway station to transfer you to Cusco. Finally, our driver will drop you off at the airport, concluding the 2-day Machu Picchu tour from Lima.

What's included?

• A representative in Cusco (Our guide will be waiting at the airport for your briefing);
• Local flight Lima - Cusco - Lima;
• Private transfer from Cusco airport to the train station;
• Accommodation: Hotel (1 night);
• Meals: 1x Breakfast, 1x Snack bag;
• Entrance fee to Machu Picchu circuit 1 or 2;
• Professional tour guide;
• Round-trip train to Machu Picchu;
• Bus ticket up and down to Machu Picchu;

Machu Picchu Snack Bag

What is included in the snack bag.

Inca Trail Machu will provide the snack bag for your tours to Machu Picchu and include the following:

• Small bottled water (500 ml);
• A small bottle of Gatorade (a sports drink used for rehydration);
• Cusco's cereals or Granola (it consist of kiwicha, quinoa, raisins, honey, and grated coconut);
• Small fruit-juice drink;
• 1x tangerine;
• Raisins with peanuts.

Not Included:

• Meals not details.
• Entrance fee to Huayna Picchu Mountain ($80).
• Transfer from the Hotel to the airport in Lima.
• Travel Insurance (While not obligatory, it is recommended in case you lose your tour or flight ticket).

Solo Traveler: If you do not like to share your room with someone else, please book the "Solo Traveler" option. We will provide a single room with a private bathroom in your Machu Picchu tours

Tour Guide & Representative

From lima to machu picchu.

If you are in the capital of Peru , Lima, our representative will contact you via phone (WhatsApp). They will send a copy of your flight tickets from Lima to Cusco by email, and our operations office will check your ticket. Don't worry; you only need to present your passport at the airport. They will also provide information about the pickup and who will be waiting at the airport.

Upon arrival in Cusco, please look for your sign at the airport. Our representative will be waiting outside the airport to transfer you to the hotel or train station.

In Machupicchu Town

Once you arrive in Aguas Calientes village, our guide or representative will be waiting at the train station with your sign and will take you to the hotel.

Between 18:00 to 19:00, our guide will meet you at your hotel for your briefing. This briefing is for coordination, discussing the timing of your guided tour of Machu Picchu.

Accomodation in Machu Picchu

The following hotels in Machupicchu town are used to accomodate our travellers during your 2 day Machu Picchu tours from Lima or Cusco .

- Casa de Luz Machu Picchu

Solo Traveler to Machu Picchu tours

It doesn't matter whether you are single or your partner is not on vacation at the moment... If you are asking yourself whether you should dare to travel alone to Machu Picchu or whether you should rather stay at home, the answer can only be: pack your bags and start into adventure! Solo Machu Picchu trips are trendy and offer you the opportunity to spend a few days according to your wishes. 

Many hotels have recognized the trend and have adapted to solo travelers and offer you appropriate rooms with extra cost single room surcharges.

If you booked " Solo Traveler ". We will provide a single room with a private bathroom a surcharge of USD 30 will have to be paid. If you want an upgrade any service to the train or accommodation or do you want to stay extra night in Machu Picchu, contact us directly to [email protected]  for this to be done and confirmed to you.

IMPORTANT TO ACCOMMODATION : You must present your passport (copy) to all hotel accommodations. The national sales tax (18%) is charged to all Peruvian citizens and foreigners staying 60 consecutive days or more. You need to bring it to the Cusco office for your checking. 

UP-GRADING MACHU PICCHU HOTELS

If you would like to upgrade your accommodation, we could give you a U$ 25 discount per person (Double or Single room) and you can book your hotel by yourself or we can recommend the following:

If you want to know more information about the hotels, please click on Machu Picchu Luxury Resorts

Machu Picchu Tours with Flight Options

Flight lima cusco.

The flight departs between 06:30 to 08:30, depending on availability in your booking. It's crucial to note that for early flights, you should be at the airport 1 hour and 20 minutes before departure. For instance, if your flight is scheduled for 05:30, you'll need to wake up at 02:30 am.

If you choose to book your Machu Picchu tour from Lima, our sales executive will arrange your flight tickets from Lima to Cusco. The flight ticket includes a light service and allows for only small hand luggage. If you plan to bring extra equipment, please contact us to request more information about additional costs for your luggage.

We recommend bringing only necessary equipment for the 2-day trip. Inca Trail Machu collaborates with Latam and Sky Airline, and these companies are stringent when checking hand luggage.

Flight Cusco - Lima

Our service includes the flight from Cusco to Lima, scheduled from 8:30 to 10:00 PM. Upon arrival in Cusco, our driver will drop you off at the airport, and you can proceed to the check-in area on the second floor of Alejandro Velazco Astete International Airport. It is crucial to have your passport and flight ticket in your hand.

If you request an extra night in Cusco, our driver will drop you off at the hotel. If you need an extra transfer from the hotel to the airport, please let us know, and we can provide the transfer at the best price.

Where are pick-up & drof-off points?

Departure Point: Our driver will pick you up from Cusco airport. 

Departure Time: 03:00 - 04:00 am.

Briefing Point: Our representative will be waiting in the airport of Cusco and transfer to the train station.

Briefing Time: 18:00 - 19:00. in Machupicchu town. According to your accordinations with Inca Trail Machu staff.

Return Point: Our driver will be dropping you off at the airport of Cusco.

Additional Service

Transfer from hotel lima to airport.

If you need a transfer to Lima airport, let us know; we can provide the transfer from your hotel located in Lima. Contact us through our sales department. Extra cost.

Huayna Picchu ticket

If you want to add more experience to your Machu Picchu tour , we recommend booking the Huayna Picchu ticket. These tickets are limited to only 400 per day.

Packing list for your 2 day Machu Picchu tour

The packing list is designed for 4 days, but would also be enough for one or two days longer. During your visit to Machu Picchu , you can either leave your backpack in the hotel in Aguas Calientes, put it in the lockers, or take it with you to Machu Picchu. The backpack should not be too heavy, since you carry it all the time.

Carry-on luggage means a bag or backpack with a maximum weight limit of 5.0 kg/11 lb and measuring no more than 157 cm (height + length + width). Any luggage that does not meet these limits cannot be carried aboard the train.

In case of the Belmond Andean Explorer , permitted luggage in cabins should not exceed 05 kg / 11 lbs per passenger. In case of larger luggage, the train has a luggage storage wagon. We recommend you to carry with you everything you consider necessary for your trip, because access to the luggage storage wagon will be limited.

To protect your documents, you can use a practical dry bag, Zib bag or protective cover*.

Passport – remember to take it with you to Machu Picchu as well, then you can get a Machu Picchu stamp. What a great souvenir of the trip. International health insurance* Medical masks* Proof of vaccination digitally and in paper form (preferably in English and/or Spanish)

• Credit card or debit*
• Soles - S/100 or more, in case you want to buy any souvenir in Machupicchu town or some snack

We recommend wearing most of the items from the packing list instead of carrying them in your backpack. The weather tends to start cold in the morning and then become progressively warmer throughout the day!

• Fleece vest*
• Functional shirt*
• Long sleeve shirt
• Long pants (leggings or jeans)
• Hat or Baseball cap*
• Swimwear - in case you want to visit the hot spring
• Sneakers* that you wear
• Optional flip-flop* for the hotel

Inca Trail Machu will provide before the tour

• Train ticket around trip to Machu Picchu*
• Admission ticket Machu Picchu*
• Bus ticket up and down to Machu Picchu*
• Flight ticket – depending on the airline, the online ticket is sufficient ( Machu Picchu tours from Lima )

Doubts and Frequent Questions about Machu Picchu Tour

Here is everything you need to know to take the 2 day 1 night Machu Picchu tour .

"Cusco" at 3,399 m.a.s.l.

• "Ollantaytambo" at 2,972 m.a.s.l.
• "Hot Springs" at 2,040 m.a.s.l.
• "Machu Picchu" at 2,430 m.a.s.l.

How long I will visit Machu Picchu with me guide?  

How can i add the huayna picchu tickets to my trip tomachu picchu , is it possible to climb up to huayna picchu mountain with our guide, where can i leave the extra clothes, is there luggage storage at the stations.

Yes. Luggage storage is free for all PeruRail or IncaRail passengers at the following stations:

• Storage Ollantaytambo – From ​05:30 am. to 19:00 pm from Monday to Sunday and Holidays
• ​Storage Poroy – From 06:00 am. to 09:10 am. and from 18:00 pm to 21:00 pm.
• Storage Machu Picchu – From 08:00 am. to 22:00 pm and from Monday to Sunday and Holidays.

• +51 984 004 472
• Machu Picchu, Cusco, Perú
• Mon-Sat: 10 AM – 5 PM

Machu Picchu Tour from Lima

Machu picchu tours 2024/2025: a trip to machu picchu from lima.

If you are looking for Machu Picchu tours from Lima, this Machu Picchu trip is perfect for you. This trip to Machu Picchu is all-inclusive from Lima..

Description

The Machu Picchu tour from Lima starts in your hotel and transfer to the Jorge Chavez International Airport in the capital of Peru. From there, you will take a flight to the Andes of Peru, arriving in Cusco, located in the south of Peru.

This trip to the Lost City of the Incas is one of the most relaxing Machu Picchu tours that Tierras Vivas offers to all travelers who don’t have much time to visit Cusco and Machu Picchu. Upon arrival in Cusco, our driver will transfer you to the train station, where you will catch the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. You will spend the night in a comfortable hotel. The next day, you will visit Machu Picchu and have a guided tour. In the afternoon, you will take the train back to Ollantaytambo and transfer to the airport for your flight back to Lima.

During the Machu Picchu tour from Lima , enjoy the most beautiful landscapes that Peru offers. Observe the mountains through the windows of the flight. While driving through the Sacred Valley, appreciate the natural beauty of the Cusco region and the Andes. Notice the weather change from cold to warm and enjoy the view of the Vilcanota River and the green landscapes. The green mountains will accompany your Machu Picchu trip.

Machu Picchu is a New Wonder of the World, accessible to everyone who wants to visit. Book the Machu Picchu 2 days tour from Lima online now and enjoy the ride!

Departure & Return Location

Lima - Hotel

Doble or Matrimonial

Departure Time

3 Hours Before Flight Time

Price Includes

• Local flight ticket
• Train 
• Accomodation
• Entrance Fees

Tierras Vivas Crew

• A Tierras Vivas Representative

What to Expect

Machu picchu tour overview.

Sustainable Tourism : At Tierras Vivas, we are happy to promote and practice sustainable tourism by being eco-friendly and supporting local communities. Book this trip to Machu Picchu now, and a portion of your purchase will be donated to our Responsible People project.

Tour Operator : Tierras Vivas  - If you have questions or doubt about your trip, contact by WhatsApp: +51 984 004472

Service Level : Comfortable tourist-class accommodations and private transport.

Difficulty : 1 - Easy

Age Requirements : 2+ (All travellers under the age of 18 years must be accompanied by an adult!).

Crew : A Tierras Vivas representative in Cusco, a professional bilingual Tour Guide at Machu Picchu, a driver.

Meals : 1x breafast and 1x snack bag (Please allow USD 10-15 for meals not included)

Transportation : Private van, local flight, tourist bus, a train round trip.

Accommodation : Hotel in Machu Picchu (01 night)

Guide in Another Language : If you would like a guide in a different language, let us know please, our sales department will send you a new budget travel.

Quick Itinerary:

Day 01: lima to machu picchu.

• Pick you up from your hotel in Lima
• Flight from Lima to Cusco
• Arrival to Cusco and transfer to the train station
• Train from Ollantaytambo  to Aguas Calientes
• Upon arrival and transfer to the hotel designed
• Free time to explore the town or good time to do the extra activity
• In the night, briefing with your guide

Day 02: Machu Picchu - Lima

• After breakfast, transfer to the bus station.
• Bus up to the Inca citadel.
• Enter to Machu Picchu.
• Machu Picchu guided tour.
• Bus down to Aguas Calientes town.
• Train return to Ollantaytambo.
• Arrival at the train station and transfer to the Cusco airport.
• Flight from Cusco to Lima.
• Arrival and transfer to your hotel in Lima.
• Our driver will drop you off at the hotel.
• End of the Machu Picchu tour.
• The flights from Lima to Cusco and back depend on availability. Our sales department will confirm the exact start time.
• The guided tour of Machu Picchu depends on the available circuit.

Highlights of the Lima to Machu Picchu

• View the Andes of Peru from your flight window from Lima to Cusco .
• A Machu Picchu tour from Lima offers the most beautiful experience during the trip.
• Comfortable and quick way on how to get to Machu Picchu.
• Opportunity to view part of the Sacred Valley of the Incas .
• Appreciate the most beautiful natural landscapes during the trip to Machu Picchu.
• Observe the running of the Vilcanota River.
• Spend a night in Aguas Calientes in the confortable accommodation.
• Enjoy a day trip to Machu Picchu with a guided tour.
• Take the opportunity to climb Huayna Picchu Mountain for panoramic photos (additional cost).

Machu Picchu Tours 2025

If you are planning to do the Machu Picchu tours in 2025 , we recommend you book in advance and request Circuit 2 Machu Picchu , where you can explore the entire Inca citadel. There are a limited number of tickets available for these circuits. The Machu Picchu tickets will go on sale in mid-October for 2025. Book now online for a 100% guaranteed departure!

Itineray Details

Day 01: lima - machu picchu.

Early in the morning, our driver will pick you up from your hotel in Lima and transfer you to Jorge Chavez International Airport in Lima . You will take a local flight from Lima to Cusco. Upon arrival in Cusco, our representative will be waiting at the airport with a sign, and he/she will call your name. It is essential to pay attention.

Once you meet our Tierras Vivas representative and driver, you will have a quick briefing about your Machu Picchu 2-day tour. Our representative will provide a snack bag and your tickets for the trip. You will then transfer from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, a 1 hour and 30-minute trip.

Upon arrival, our driver will drop you off at the train station. It is very important to have your passport and train ticket in hand, as the train staff will require your passport and compare it with your ticket before you board.

Take the train from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu . During the trip, enjoy the spectacular and ever-changing landscapes passing through lush fields and colorful villages nestled at the foothills of the Andes. The highlights of the journey include wonderful views of mountains and the marvelous Urubamba River that flows through the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The train trip duration is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Finally, you will reach Aguas Calientes. Our representative will welcome you at the railway station and accompany you to the designated comfortable hotel. After checking in, the rest of the day is free for you to visit the thermal baths (hot springs) and explore the lovely surroundings of Aguas Calientes. If you want to add more experiences to your Machu Picchu tour, we recommend taking an extra activity.

Optional Activities:

• Mandor waterfull Walking tour

Day 2: Machu Picchu - Lima

In the morning, we will board the tourist bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu . During the bus trip, we will appreciate the Putucusi Mountain and the running of the Vilcanota River. The bus will follow a zigzag path until it arrives at the citadel. The bus ride lasts 30 minutes.

Once at Machu Picchu, you will need to present your passport and entry ticket at the checkpoint, where the ranger will verify the information. After the check-in, you will enter Machu Picchu and walk with your guide to the initial point of your designated circuit.

During the guided tour inside the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, our professional tour guide will introduce you to the most significant attractions, providing insightful explanations during the two-hour and 30-minute exploration (depending on the duration permitted by your ticket). It is crucial to take photos of Machu Picchu from the initial point, as the rules have changed: your ticket is valid for one-way entry only, and revisiting the starting point is not permitted after the guided tour concludes. Therefore, don't forget your camera and relish the visit to ' One of the New 7 Wonders of the World '!

After the guided tour in Machu Picchu, you can choose to climb one of the two mountains offered by Machu Picchu: Huayna Picchu or Mount Machu Picchu. It is very important to book in advance, and there is an additional cost. Alternatively, you can take the bus back to Aguas Calientes village, where you can have lunch (not included in the package). Aguas Calientes is a small tourist site with many restaurants offering both traditional Andean and international cuisine.

In the afternoon, we will take a train back to Ollantaytambo, where our driver will be waiting in front of the railway station to transfer you to Cusco airport. You will be dropped off inside the airport to complete the check-in process and board the local flight from Cusco to Lima.

Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel in Lima, concluding your unforgettable tour to Machu Picchu from Lima.

What is included?

• A Tierras Vivas representative will be waiting in airport in Cusco (Briefing for your trip Cusco to Machu Picchu);
• Transfer from Lima - Airport - Lima (Hotel or Airbnb);
• Local flight from Lima - Cusco - Lima;
• Accommodation: Hotel in Machu Picchu (01 night);
• Meals: 01 Breakfast, 01 Snack bag ( Organic cotton bag );
• Entrance fee to Machu Picchu;
• Professional guide;
• Tourist train around trip to Machu Picchu;
• A shuttle bus up and down to Machu Picchu;
• Private transfers;

What is included in the Snack Bag?

• Small bottled water (500 ml);
• A small bottle of Gatorade (a sports drink used for rehydration);
• Cusco's cereals or Granola (it consist of kiwicha, quinoa, raisins, honey, and grated coconut);
• Small fruit-juice drink;
• 1x tangerine;
• Raisins with peanuts.

Not Included:

• Meals not details
• Entrance fee to Huayna Picchu Mountain  ($80)
• Travel Insurance (It is not mandatory, but we recommend it in case you miss your flight or encounter any emergencies)
• Transfer from the hotel to airport in Lima

Extra Budget:

Meal budget: Please allow USD 8-10 for meals not included.

Solo Traveler: Please note that if you have booked the " Solo Traveler " option for this tour, you receive your own single room on overnight.

Local flights: It is not included the international. In case you want to book your ticket flight with us, please contact with our info department ( [email protected] ), we have the best price.

It is very important that we have got your passport details at the time of booking in order to process all air tickets! Internal flight tickets are issued locally and will be given to you prior to each flight departure!

Essential Information

Tour guide & representative.

Upon your arrival at Cusco airport, our designated transfer will be waiting for you with a sign bearing your name. It is crucial to pay attention and, once you meet your driver, they will escort you to the train station.

In Aguas Calientes, your transfer will be waiting to take you to the accommodation of your selected hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to explore. Between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM, our guide will meet you in the reception area of your hotel for a briefing.

Tierras Vivas representative:

All Machu Picchu tours are accompanied by our driver, Tierras Vivas Tour Guide, a representative, or an expedition team. The goal of our Tour Guides is to eliminate any hassle during our customers' trips and ensure they have the best experience possible. The Tour Guides provide information on the places visited, offer suggestions on what to see and do, recommend good places to eat, and introduce you to their colleagues. The Guides possess broad general knowledge of each country visited during a tour, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects. We also utilize local Tour Guides when specific knowledge could enhance the enjoyment of visited places.

Accommodation in Machu Picchu

The following hotels in Aguas Calientes are used to accommodate our customers during our Machu Picchu 2 day tours from Lima :

-  Casa de Luz Machu Picchu

We spend a night in a small locally owned hotel rooms (either twin or matrimonial) with private bathrooms and breakfast facilities. Both hotels are situated within walking distance of the railway station.

Solo Traveler: If you are traveling on your own, and would prefer to share a tent, we'll pair you with another trekker of the same gender and there will not be an extra cost. If you prefer to have a tent to yourself a surcharge of USD 50 will have to be paid. If you want an upgrade any service to the train or accommodation or do you want to stay extra night in Machu Picchu, contact us directly to [email protected]  for this to be done and confirmed to you. 

IMPORTANT TO ACCOMMODATION : You must present your passport (copy) to all hotel accommodations. The national sales tax (18%) is charged to all Peruvian citizens and foreigners staying 60 consecutive days or more. In case the room is shared by both a taxable and non-taxable guest at the same time, the sales tax will be applied to the whole room. So please take every caution to not lose this piece of paper. You need to bring it to the Cusco office for your checking. 

UP-GRADING MACHU PICCHU HOTELS

If you would like to upgrade your accommodation, the discount is U$ 25 per person (Double or Single room). We can recommend the following:

Important note : If you want it, you can choose and book the hotel by yourself, our sales department will give you a discount for your accommodation.

If you want to know more information about the hotels, please click on Machu Picchu Hotels

Machu Picchu Train Service

On this  Machu Picchu Tours  are included the following train services:

PeruRail - Expedition Train

Ollantaytambo - Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu to Cusco

IncaRail - The Voyager Train

• On the Expedition and The Voyager is not included extra service inside the train.

UP GRADING Train service:

If you prefer Vistadome train or Machu Picchu Train 360 for this trek, the extra price is U$ 50 dollars. let us know before your booking your service.

Vistadome train Machu Picchu - Perurail

The Vistadome train  have panoramic windows, which allows to appreciate the beautiful scenery along the route.Live an unforgettable experience of magic connection with nature on the Machu Picchu - Ollantaytambo route on the PeruRail Vistadome train . 

In the Vistadome service you can enjoy of: 

• Long Stretch (from the Poroy Station, Cusco):
• Outbound: Snack Service
• Inbound: Snack Service
• Short Stretch (from the Ollantaytambo Station):
• Outbound: Light Snack Service
• Inbound: Light Snack Service
• Selection of hot or cold non-alcoholic drinks (one hot drink and one cold drink per person)

The 360 train Machu Picchu - Inca Rail

The only train in Peru with an entertainment app on board which will allow you to learn more about the train journey and the Inca civilization. Experience a unique way to travel to Machu Picchu , exploring the Andean landscape like never before with wider and taller panoramic windows and an observation outdoor carriage including a bar. Enjoy our appetizing selection of cold and warm drinks, prepared using fruit juices and Andean herbs, and our delicious gourmet and organic delights made with products from the Sacred Valley.

You can enjoy of:

• Comfortable seats with tables in front
• Bigger and wider panoramic windows
• Outdoor carriage including a bar to enjoy the landscape
• Gourmet and organic delights made with products from the Sacred Valley
• InTrain entertainment system.

Where are pick-up & drof-off points?

Machu picchu tours from lima.

Departure Point : Lima - We pick you up from your hotel, hostel or Airbnb in the capital of Peru  - Lima.

Departure Time : 3:00 -4:00 am.

Briefing Point : Cusco, a representative of Tierras Vivas will be waiting in the airport. 

Return Point : Cusco - Our driver will drop-off in the airport. End of the Machu Picchu tour

Machu Picchu Circuits

Machu picchu entrance hours:.

During your Machu Picchu tour from Lima , the daily schedule for tourist visits to Machu Picchu starts at 6:00 am and concludes at 5:00 pm. There are nine time slots for visitors to enter the Machu Picchu citadel, with the designated visiting hours ranging from 6:00 am to 4:00 pm. According to the new Machu Picchu rules , visitors are allowed to explore Machu Picchu with their guide for a maximum of 2 hours.

To reach Machu Picchu, visitors must board a shuttle bus from Aguas Calientes no later than 30 minutes before the time indicated on their respective tickets.

New Machu Picchu circuits:

This year, the Ministry of Culture has implemented new circuits for visiting the Inca citadel of Machupicchu . There are a total of 3 circuits, and each one is divided into subcategories that will take you on a different path through Machu Picchu . Below are the 3 new circuits:

Circuit 1 (Panoramic Circuit)

• Panoramic Circuit + Upper Terrace Route
• Panoramic Circuit + Machu Picchu Mountain
• Panoramic Circuit + Inti Punku
• Panoramic Circuit + Inca Bridge

Circuit 2 (Inca City Circuit)

• Complete Classic Circuit
• Short Classic Circuit

Circuit 3 (Royalty Circuit)

• Lower Royalty Circuit
• Lower Royalty Circuit + Huayna Picchu
• Lower Royalty Circuit + Great Cavern
• Lower Royalty Circuit + Huchuy Picchu

Since reopening, there is a limited time available to visit the Inti Huatana (Solar Clock), Templo del Cóndor (Condor Temple) complexes, and the Temple of the Sun at Machu Picchu. Additionally, the alternative routes of the Machu Picchu citadel, including Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu mountains, Puente Inka, and Inti Punku (Sun Gate), have reopened this year, but there is also a limited time for visiting these areas

If you want to read more information, please click on Machu Picchu tickets

Advantages of the 2-day Machu Picchu tour

• This tour is ideal for traveler looking for a bit of adventure in Machu Picchu.
• The 2-day Machu Picchu tour allows you to appreciate the best landscapes of Machu Picchu in due time.
• This tour allows you to get to know the town of Aguas Calientes better. After visiting Machu Picchu, tourists can relax in the town's thermal baths.

2 Day Machu Picchu Tour From Lima

If you have a short time to visit Peru and you arrive in Lima thinking that Machu Picchu is in the capital of Peru and you are surprised that it's not there. Tierras Vivas have the best option trip to Machu Picchu for you. We can offer the 2-day Machu Picchu tour from Lima . This itinerary is the following. We provide local flight tickets from Lima to Cusco. Once you arrived in Cusco. Our driver will be waiting in the airport and transferring to the train station. You will catch Train to Aguas Calientes town, transfer to the hotel, and spend a night in the hotel.

The second day. Wake up early and take the bus up to Machu Picchu and take a guided tour in the lost city of the Incas. In the afternoon you will take the train from Aguas Calientes town to Ollantaytambo train station. Arrival and transfer from the train station to the Cusco airport. Flight from Cusco to Lima in the night. Or you have the best itinerary for your holidays, please, let us know please, we can help you to organize it. If you have questions, you can contact by WhatsApp: +51 984004472 , our staff will reply ASP. or you can send us by emiail your doublt:  [email protected]  

Machu Picchu Weather

Machu Picchu is located in the so-called " Ceja de selv a" (jungle eyebrows ), which means on the edge of the Andean highlands of the Amazon jungle . That is why it has subtropical weather that is much warmer than temperatures in Cusco. Visitors can visit it all year round because it never closes its gate.

However, there are parts of the year that are more popular and correspond to the holiday summer season of the northern hemisphere, ie June to August . In the southern hemisphere is the exact opposite, wintertime. The Peruvian winter is not quite cold there (approx. 18°C), it is basically cold only at night and early in the morning (around 0°C). The advantage of winter is that it has dry weather , so no Machu Picchu viewpoints are spoiled by heavy rains and mist.

April May and September-October are not less worth a visit, because the climate is still mostly dry and the citadel is less crowded.

November to March falls in the rainy season . The peak of the rainy season is January and especially February . The mornings are usually dry and clear, while it rains a lot in the afternoon. The best part of these months is the fact that you can enjoy Machu Picchu along with just a few tourists and the weather is warmer all day (around 25°C) and night.

If you want more information, please click in the Best time to visit Machu Picchu .

When to go?

It is one of the best questions before going to Machu Picchu, and to tell the truth only you can choose when to go to Machu Picchu. The climate in Machu Picchu and Cusco is clearly marked by 2 seasons or seasons; the rainy season and the dry season. We detail each of them below.

No matter what time you come, you should bring waterproof clothing with you since, regardless of the season, the rains can fall at any time of the year.

Conditions to enter to Machu Picchu

Acquiring your ticket alone is not sufficient for entry into Machu Picchu ; it is also essential to carry your current and valid personal documents. Failure to have documents that match the registered data on your Machu Picchu tickets will result in denial of entry to the archaeological park.

Ensure that your ticket is correctly filled out, without erasures or amendments. In the case of minors without identity documents, they can enter accompanied by their parents under their absolute responsibility. Students must present their International ISIC Card.

To enter Machu Picchu , visitors must not be under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other substances. Firearms, flammable substances, or any objects that may disrupt order within the archaeological site are not allowed. Note that only canteens and walking sticks are permitted for water, and they are exclusively for individuals with disabilities or older adults. Smoking is strictly prohibited in the archaeological park of Machu Picchu.

Movement is only allowed in marked and designated areas. The Regional Directorate of Culture is not responsible for any accidents that may occur.

The duration of your stay in the enclosure is from the registration of the visitor to the departure time specified on the tickets (2 hours).

Extra Luggage

If you have extra luggage, you can safely leave it at your hotel in Lima. For the Machu Picchu trip from Lima , only small hand luggage is included. If you wish to bring additional equipment, please contact our sales department, and they will provide you with the additional cost.

Before visiting Machu Picchu, you can leave your luggage at the hotel in Aguas Calientes. Upon your return from the Machu Picchu visit, you can retrieve it on the day of your return from your Machu Picchu trip.

What to Take on the Machu Picchu Tour

We have divided the packing list to Machu Picchu into sections; Before coming, know that the rainy season in Cusco and Machu Picchu goes from November to March, the rest of the time the weather is dry; However, the location of Machu Picchu means that rains can occur at any time of the year, so it is advisable to always carry rain protection with you.

Travel documents

• Airline tickets (confirmation) and itinerary.
• Valid passport (it is essential, not only for the purchase of the Machu Picchu ticket, but also to identify yourself in a country that is not yours
• Credit or debit cards and cash and small denominations.

Clothes and accessories

The suggested clothing may vary according to the Climate of Machu Picchu on the day of your trip; We recommend checking the weather forecast; However, know that in Machu Picchu you can go from a clear sky to a heavy rain, in just minutes.

• Medium backpack (you will not be able to enter Machu Picchu with a large backpack)
• Hiking shoes, especially if you plan to visit some of the mountains of Machu Picchu.
• Hat or cap, to protect yourself from the sun
• Detachable pants
• Light clothing (cotton polo shirts, shorts)
• Warm clothes (nights are usually cold, especially in the dry season)
• Waterproof cover for the backpack.
• Waterproof clothing (jacket, rain poncho, windbreaker, gloves)
• Warm clothing (jacket, coat, poncho)
• Long-sleeved garments (sweaters or sweatshirts)

Basic Accessories

These elements are quite useful to enjoy your visit.

• Enough water to stay hydrated, in a walk of at least 2 hours
• Insect repellent
• Lip protection
• Sunscreen with high protection factor
• Zippered plastic bags

Electronic accessories

We know that you will not forget your cell phone, so we will not include it on the list.

• Photographic camera
• Extra batteries
• Additional storage memory
• Power adapter

Personal Hygiene Accessories

Most of these things can be purchased in Cusco or Aguas Calientes, but you may want to bring your own for convenience.

• Shampoo, shower gel, soap, towel
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss
• Lotions, creams
• Shaving machine and cream
• Nail clippers, lime
• Other personal hygiene items

Most basic medication can be bought without a prescription at any pharmacy; however, antibiotics and other medications will be sold only with a prescription. If you need any special medication, it is best to bring your own prescription. Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town) is the town at the foot of the Inca city of Machu Picchu, and although you can find several pharmacies, it is very likely that there are medicines that you can only get in Cusco. If you have any chronic conditions, consult your doctor before setting out on your trip.

Machu Picchu 2 Day Tour from Lima FAQs

How long does it take to get to Machu Picchu?

• Machu Picchu is located in the Andes Mountains of Cusco in Peru (South America).
• To get there, the visitor needs to take a flight to the city of Lima (capital of Peru). Then, you must take another flight to the city of Cusco.
• Once in the city of Cusco, the tourist is 74 kilometers from Machu Picchu. To get there you must take a train route through the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
• The trip from Cusco to Machu Picchu by train takes approximately 4 hours.

Where to sleep on the 2-day trip to Machu Picchu?

• During the 2-day trip to Machu Picchu, the visitor will be able to spend the nights in hotels in the city of Cusco, the town of Urubamba and the town of Aguas Calientes.
• There are 5-star hotels in Cusco, Urubamba and Aguas Calientes. It is also possible to get cheap accommodation.
• It is recommended to book hotel services online and in advance. Thus the visitor will be able to get the rooms of their preference and at the best price.

What are the risks of a quick visit to Machu Picchu?

• There are some risks associated with fast travel such as flight delays or itinerary clutter.
• On the 2-day trip to Machu Picchu, you will sleep little. This excursion is not for every type of traveler. It is a maximized itinerary to make the visit to Machu Picchu possible in record time.

What tour to Machu Picchu to choose for seniors?

Older adults should choose a 2-day tour to Machu Picchu as long as it does not include the ascent to the Huayna Picchu mountain.

What tour to Machu Picchu to choose for children?

If you travel to Machu Picchu accompanied by children, you can choose the 2-day tour that includes the ascent to Machu Picchu Mountain. In addition, in the town of Santa Teresa there are some perfect thermal baths to relax with the little ones.

Traveling to Machu Picchu with a tour or on your own?

Both options are good to enjoy Machu Picchu. Tours are a good option for family travel. Young people can choose to travel on their own. In that case, they should purchase the Machu Picchu ticket online and in advance.

How much luggage can i bring on the train?

The train services either Peru Rail or Inca Rail only allow you to carry hand luggage. Maximum weight 5 kilos (11 pounds). Dimensions: 150 linear meters (width + length + height). However, you can find guardian services at the Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu stations.

From what time can you enter Machu Picchu?

The entrance to the Inca City of Machu Picchu is from 06:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The buses to Machu Picchu go up from 05:30 hrs.

What is the town of Ollantaytambo?

Ollantaytambo is a famous town located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas in Cusco, Peru. Its fame is due to the fact that it is the only Inca town that preserves its streets and urban design. In it is the important Archaeological Site of Ollantaytambo.

How far is it from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu?

Ollantaytambo is also famous for being a mandatory route before reaching Machu Picchu. Both tourist destinations are separated by 32 kilometers apart.

Where is the Ollantaytambo train station located?

The train station is located on Avenida Ferrocarril s / n, a 15-minute walk from the Main Square of the town of Ollantaytambo.

How to get to the Ollantaytambo train station?

To get to Ollantaytambo you will need to board a minivan from Pavitos street in the city of Cusco. This trip will cost you around S /. 15 (US $ 4). The final stop of these cars is in Ollantaytambo, just a few meters from the train station.

How is the train journey from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes?

The train journey from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes runs along the banks of the Urubamba River through the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

This 2-hour stretch by train is considered one of the most beautiful short tours that exist. Do not forget to carry your camera well charged.

Where and when can you choose your preferred time in Machu Picchu?

When you have made your reservation with us, you will automatically receive an email in which all important questions about your day trip to Machu Picchu, the airport transfer and much more will be answered. We recommend answering this email as soon as possible so that we can start coordinating your tickets and guarantee you an excellent experience.

What is the Vistadome train and how can I book it?

This train option offers panoramic views due to the larger windows. It differs in price. There is an additional cost of USD 40 per train per person for this option.

Information about Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is one of the 7 wonders of the modern world. What you know of this citadel is still being discovered. It was built approximately in 1450. A.D. under the orders of Emperor Pachacutec. The beauty of the site was not accidental. The Inca ruler looked for a citadel that harmonizes with his natural environment. After the Spanish invasion in the 16th century, the place was abandoned. Several centuries later, in 1911, the American explorer Hiram Bingham found Machupicchu hidden in the thick vegetation. From that day until today, the history of ‘mapi’ is full of discoveries and mysteries. Today it is one of the most visited sites in the world.

Machu Picchu, the jewel of the emperor?

• Machu Picchu was ordered to be built by the famous Inca emperor Pachacutec (1438 - 1471) to be his resting place in a strategic point of the empire: the limits with the Amazon rainforest.
• The buildings of Machu Picchu were built in harmony with their natural environment. The Incas adapted the shapes of the mountains to build their city.
• Most of their construction is underground, since they developed a complete irrigation system to grow plants of different species in various parts.
• In Machu Picchu all types of crops were found: from tubers in the highest areas to hallucinogenic plants from the jungle parts of the empire.
• Like many of the most important Inca settlements, it was built on terraces linked by steep paths and stone steps.

Where is Machu Picchu located?

• Currently, the Inca city of Machu Picchu is located in the district of the same name, in the province of Urubamba, in the department of Cusco, in southern Peru (South America).
• If we take geography into account, Machupicchu is located 2,438 meters above sea level (m.a.s.l.), between the Andes Mountains and the Amazon jungle.
• There are 3 mountains that surround the Inca wonder: the mountains Machupicchu, Huayna Picchu and Putucusi. All these mountains belong to the so-called ‘Vilcabamba Batholith’.
• Due to its location at the top of an inaccessible mountain, Machu Picchu was little known by the Spanish invaders and the nearby settlers, until it was known to the world by the investigations of the American explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911.

What does it mean?

• The word Machu Picchu comes from the Quechua language (language of the Incas and of many of the current peoples settled in the Andes Mountains) which means "old mountain". This name was chosen arbitrarily by the settlers who called the mountain that way.
• However, according to various investigations, the true name of Machupicchu would be ‘Patallaqta’, a Quechua word that means ‘people of the steps’.
• Currently Machupicchu is also the name by which the famous town of Aguas Calientes is known, located at the foot of the Inca wonder. The immense mountain on which the archaeological site is located is also known by that name.
• Likewise, the Peruvians baptized as ‘Machu Picchu’ a famous cocktail made from pisco (brandy symbol of Peru) and whose presentation combines the colors green, yellow and red.
• The geography where Machupicchu is located is characterized by the presence of mountains and peaks belonging to the so-called ‘Cordillera de Vilcabamba’ where the imposing Salkantay mountain stands out.
• The area has geological faults which generated an abundance of granite stones (which facilitated the construction of the Inca city). Two mountains stand out on the Inca citadel: Huayna Picchu and Machupicchu. Currently, both mountains offer the two most popular hiking trails in the area. Another of the nearby mountains is the ‘Putucusi’. Just 10 kilometers away is the famous town of Aguas Calientes.

Flora and fauna

• Machupicchu has a great diversity of butterflies and birds where the cock of the rocks stands out, recognized as the national bird of Peru.
• There are also some wild animals such as the pudu, the sachacabra, the ucumari, the llama, the vizcachas and the spectacled bear, the latter in danger of extinction.
• Among the flower species stands out, without a doubt, the more than 300 species of orchids. This flower is highly appreciated for its beauty and multi-colored shapes. Likewise, there are many species of ferns, shrubs and more.

What to see in Machu Picchu?

Machu Picchu is impressive: it has temples, residences, platforms, roads and more. Most of these places are included in the tourist route in the company of a guide. To enter others it is necessary to take optional routes, as in the cases of Intipunku and the Inca Bridge. In other cases, such as the Temple of the Moon, the visit is included in a different ticket (entrance that includes the Huayna Picchu mountain).

• The House of the Guardian - Famous construction from where the entire environment of Machupicchu was watched since it offers a panoramic view of the place. Currently, in this place tourists take the classic postcard photo.
• The Intipunku - The famous ‘Puerta del Sol’ through which the Incas entered Machupicchu from Cusco. The sun's rays were received there at the summer solstices. It consists of several walls and windows as well as a main door through which tourists who are currently on the famous 4-day trek known as the 'Inca Trail' enter. Reaching the top from the current entrance to the archaeological site takes approximately 1 hour.
• The Inca Bridge - The Inca Bridge is a rustic construction made of stone that limited the limits of the Inca empire with the east. Faced with a possible threat, the Incas destroyed the bridge to prevent invasions. Currently going there is an optional route that lasts approximately 30 minutes. It crosses sections close to cliffs but 100% safe.
• The Intihuatana - This construction is made of a large stone sculpted in three levels that directly receive the sun's rays. This sundial was used to know the sowing and harvesting seasons in the place. It is believed that the villagers who bring their hands to this construction are filled with the energy that comes from the sun.
• The Main Temple - The Main Temple is made up of an enclosure with three walls and a main platform as an offering table. It also has windows where ornaments were placed. Earthquakes and the passage of time have damaged these structures, which are uneven.
• The Temple of the 3 Windows - The Temple of the 3 Windows, as its name suggests, is made up of a stone structure with three windows that symbolize the division of the Inca world into three levels: the Hanan Pacha (heavenly world), the Kay Pacha (earthly world) and the Uku Pacha (world of the dead).
• The Temple of the Condor - This temple is made up of an irregularly shaped rock as well as a stone figure on the ground; which visually united form a figure of a condor, a sacred bird for the Incas. According to the Inca worldview, the condor communicated the earthly world with the heavenly world of the gods.
• The Temple of the Sun - This temple was one of the main religious sites in Machupicchu. It is made of many regularly carved stones that form a circumference on top of a cave. It is on the highest point of the place so it received the rays of the sun inside. Below is a staircase that leads to what would be a royal tomb, due to the relics that were found there during its discovery.
• The Temple of the Moon - This construction is also known as the ‘Great cavern’, since it is built inside a cave. It has finely carved walls and windows as well as a kind of altar where it is assumed that sacrifices were made. The Temple of the Moon is on the Huayna Picchu mountain, an hour from a fork. Visitors who come to the temple will find themselves almost alone since few people come near there.

What to do in Aguas Calientes?

In your free time in Aguas Calientes you can:

• Taking a walk to the Mándor Falls is a quiet walk is 4 km. from town.
• Another option is to go to the Hot Springs of Aguas Calientes, a place that has changing rooms and a snack bar.
• You can visit the Manuel Chávez Ballón Site Museum where you have a panorama of the discovery and investigation of Machu Picchu.
• There is also the Model Museum of the Municipality of Machu Picchu.
•  And if you have good physical condition, experience in hiking, high-level climbing, you can encourage yourself to ascend to Putucusi Mountain.

Altitudes in Machu Picchu

At what altitude is huayna picchu.

• The Huayna Picchu mountain is at an altitude of 8,923 feet (2,720 m.s.n.m.).
• At that altitude the tourist may suffer slightly from the symptoms of altitude sickness.

At what altitude is the Machu Picchu mountain?

• Machu Picchu mountain is located at an altitude of 10,111 feet (3,082 m.s.n.m.).
• At that height, most tourists suffer from some symptoms of altitude sickness such as difficulty breathing.

At what altitude is the town of Aguas Calientes?

• The town of Aguas Calientes is at 6,692 feet (2,040 m.a.s.l.).
• At that altitude, no tourist suffers from altitude sickness.

What to do against altitude sickness?

• Stay calm - his body is trying to get used to the lesser amount of oxygen so it is extremely important that he take it easy the first few days he is in Cusco.
• Take a deep breath - Once again your body is trying to get the necessary oxygen. To provide enough oxygen to the lungs, it is advisable to stop and breathe deeply from time to time.
• Avoid alcohol - Some studies suggest that the effects of alcohol are greater in high altitude locations. Also, alcohol can exacerbate the effects of altitude sickness. Stay away from pisco, at least the first days in Cusco.
• Drink lots of water - Altitude sickness can cause a dry throat, leading to thirst. In addition, drinking water calms rapid breathing and alleviates the sensation of oxygen deprivation caused by altitude sickness.
• Acclimatize to Cusco - The city of Cusco is almost a thousand meters (3,280 ft) away. above Machu Picchu. If the tourist adapts satisfactorily to the city of Cusco, it is sure that he will not have any problem to visit Machu Picchu.
• Sorojchi Pills - One of the drugs recommended to alleviate the symptoms of altitude sickness is called 'Sorojchi pills'. You can find them in any pharmacy in Cusco without a prescription.
• Bring drops of chlorophyll - This natural remedy increases the number of red blood cells in the blood. Therefore, there is more opportunity for oxygen to be absorbed by the blood. It can be found in any health food store in Cusco.
• Drink coca tea - The coca leaf has been used since before the time of the Incas as a remedy for different ailments. Currently, the coca leaf infusion is widely used in Cusco to combat the symptoms of altitude sickness.

What time is recommended to visit Machu Picchu?

While some people say that 5 or 6 hours is fine; others feel that they would have needed at least two days there. Opinions vary, but it definitely all depends on what you want to do when you get to Machu Picchu. The most advisable thing would be to go the day before and stay in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town) the night before, this will give you the opportunity to board the first bus that leaves for the citadel of Machu Picchu and take the time to enjoy it. . For example, to climb the Huayna Picchu mountain you will need a minimum time of three hours (the entrance to Huayna Picchu must be obtained months before because the availability is limited). Some people feel the need to be up there as soon as possible, in addition to wanting to make their visit as long as possible.

Lima to Machu Picchu

Lima to cusco.

From the Lima airport to the city of Cusco there is a distance of 1,165 km. and it will only take an hour if you decide to travel by plane; On the other hand, the bus trip from  Lima to Cusco   takes around 20 hours. Remember that the city of Cusco is a mandatory arrival point for people wishing to reach Machu Picchu.

Arrive in Cusco by plane

A flight from the city of Lima to the city of Cusco will take about 1 hour (55 minutes to be exact), flights from Lima and any city in Peru, arrive at the Teniente FAP Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco; there are regular daily flights to and from Lima.

From the Cusco airport there are daily flights to and from Arequipa, Juliaca (Puno Lake Titicaca), and Puerto Maldonado (Tambopata), and international destinations such as La Paz (Bolivia).

The airport of Cusco has; ATMs, restaurants, gift and souvenir shops, bookstores and a small medical center. On the outskirts of the airport you will find taxis to any part of the city.

Get to Cusco by Train

From Cusco you can travel by train the city of Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca, the city of Arequipa and the National Park of Machu Picchu, so it is also possible to arrive to Cusco via train if you are in any of the places mentioned.

The train route from Cusco to Puno was awarded as the second most beautiful in the world.

During the train journey, you will ascend slowly to great heights. In the first half of the journey, you can enjoy the magnificent Andes mountain range, then you can enjoy the Andean plains, where you can see vicuñas and alpacas.

The trains to Machu Picchu leave from the Ollantaytambo station in Cusco, and the route through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, is considered among the most beautiful short train routes in the world; However, to get to Machu Picchu by train, you must book Machu Picchu tickets and train tickets in advance.

Arrive in Cusco by bus

You can get from Lima to Cusco by bus along the south Pan-American highway route, some people pass through the city of Arequipa during this tour: although you can get directly to the city of Cusco if you wish.

Cusco to Machu Picchu

The city of Machu Picchu does not have an airport. There are no roads from  Cusco to Machu Picchu .

There are daily departures of train and / or taxis between Cusco and Ollantaytambo. Also Bus service between the city of Machu Picchu (Aguas Calientes) and the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu Inca on the top of the Mountain.

Train to Machu Picchu

Rail travel is the simplest option and the fastest to get from  Cusco to Machu Picchu , but also the most expensive. The railway companies that operate there are functioning as a monopoly so prices are high. Now, if you have little time to visit Machu Picchu, hiring a day tour may be the best option.

Taking advantage of the road that the ancient Incas made to reach Machu Picchu, it has been converted into a tourist destination. The traditional  Inca Trail distance  involves 40 kilometers from Piscacucho (starting point) to the sacred temple. As I say, there are different versions, but they usually offer you two or four nights. The problem: the price and the excess of demand. To be able to make this  Inca Trail Trek , you have to book well in advance. It is also mandatory to hire a guide for the  Inca Trail . Adding up everything is an important financial outlay, but everyone who does recommends it.

Adventure trip to Machu Picchu

There are many travel agencies that offer alternative routes to Machu Picchu including adventure elements: bicycle route, zip lines, bungee jumping. Actually, they sell you the complete package but they do not include everything. If you do not want complications,  Inka Jungle  is a good option, but it also implies schedules and lack of freedom. It is not expensive but you can still look for a more affordable option for your pocket.

Now with these practical tips that will help you get from  Lima to Machu Picchu  and take the trip in the most complete and comfortable way, do not miss the opportunity to visit one of the seven wonders of the world and explore the imperial city of Cusco as It is due and unhurried. Distances and travel times are not that great in Peru; However, geography requires that drivers take things slowly, and without a doubt it is the best way to travel to a destination like Peru.

Extra Activities in Machu Picchu Tour

Mandor water fall walking tour.

Machu Picchu is a must for almost all Peru travelers. Some choose the famous Inca Trail tours  or the lesser-known Salkantay trek to reach the Inca site. Most of the Inca sites are reached by train from Cusco to Machu Picchu . If you choose this option, you could take a worthwhile half-day tour to the waterfalls of Mandor .

Machu Picchu waterfall walk

Near to Machupicchu town, there is a new attraction, we work with Aguas Calientes local guides. The Machu Picchu Waterfall is located by the hot spring. Walk for 1 hr up to the head trail and see the small natural waterfall and flora of the area. During the walk, enjoy the singing of the colorful birds. If you are lucky, you can see the cock of the rocks - the national bird of Peru.

Rock Carving Activity

Tierras Vivas has responsible travel and in this opportunity offer the Rock Carving Activity. This activity involves 3 hours with a local carver, who will teach you to rock carve different sculptures of your preference. You can do a sculpture of an Inca or the god sun. This activity will help the local carvers of the Aguas Calientes "Rumimaki Carvers Association" to become worldwide known.

Similar tours to Machu Picchu

Machu picchu tours tripadvisor - reviews.

Tierras Vivas is a fully licensed tour operator and has 5-star reviews on TripAdvisor . The copy of our  Machu Picchu Tours Tripadvisor reviews  below proves our experience and enthusiasm to offer our customers the best experience for Machu Picchu.

Check our  Machu Picchu Tours Tripadvisor  comments below:

Week in Peru

Review of: 2-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Oliveol wrote a review May 2024 : " This tour was perfect for us! We wanted to experience the Inca trail, but had limited amount of time. This tour provided 6 miles of the spectacular trail into Machu Picchu with the most stunning views you can get. Our guide, Juan de Dios, was amazing! We started early in the morning by train to marker 104, then headed up the mountian. It's a moderate hike, but almost completely uphill... so many steps. The 'Gringo Killer' steps were hilariously true. After arriving to Machu Picchu, we headed down to Aguas Caliente to a hotel, shower and a great dinner. Then the next day for a more in-depth tour of Machu Picchu- then hiked up the WaynaPicchu Mountain for the optional experience- so glad we did. Our guide made sure everything went smoothly and we were so greatful. Tierras Vivas was also organized with everything we needed. They organize smaller groups which made for an amazing experience."

Great Experience 

Review: 2-Day Machu Picchu Tour by Train from Cusco

Zachary M Wrote a review May 2024 : "The tour was extremely well organized with written contact with Samuel the entire time! We booked the day before arriving, and they organized the entire tour including getting us admission to circuit 2 and 4 in less than 24 hours. You are very well token care of with professional drivers and transport all organized for you, no hassle and worry free way to see Machu Picchu. On top of that, our guide Samuel spoke with emotion and connection to the culture, and had a depth of knowledge much much deeper than any guide we've had (even some in Machu Picchu). Very happy with our tour and guide."

Machu Picchu 

Review: Machupicchu Guide Service

Dhyago F Wrote a review March 2024 :  "The trip was extremely easy to navigate, from the moment we landed in Cusco, through out Machu Picchu and even the hotel we were taken care of. Everyone was super friendly and accommodating. Juan Carlos our tour guide took so many photos and showed so much excitement and passion for Machu Picchu and the culture. Views were also breath taking. 10/10 recommend to a friend!"

2 Day Machu Picchu Tour

Machu Picchu Photos

Machu Picchu , the ancient Incan citadel nestled in the Andes , offers breathtaking views, rich history, and a unique cultural experience. Explore the iconic ruins, marvel at the architecture, and uncover the mysteries of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Discover Machu Picchu, the awe-inspiring Incan citadel perched high in the Andes. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts stunning panoramic views, intricate stone architecture, and a rich historical legacy. A must-visit destination for travelers seeking adventure, culture , and unforgettable experiences.

Unveil the mysteries of Machu Picchu , an iconic Incan citadel perched in the Andes. This renowned UNESCO World Heritage site offers awe-inspiring mountain vistas, masterful stone constructions , and deep historical roots. Ideal for explorers, history buffs, and those yearning for a journey into ancient civilizations.

Experience the wonder of Machu Picchu alongside its charming llamas . Set in the breathtaking Andes, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers stunning mountain views, ancient Incan architecture, and the unique opportunity to encounter llamas roaming the historic ruins. Perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Explore Machu Picchu , the legendary Incan citadel located high in the Peruvian Andes . This iconic site, surrounded by lush green mountains and misty clouds, offers breathtaking views, ancient stone architecture, and a deep connection to Incan history. A must-visit destination for adventurers and cultural explorers alike

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Machu Picchu Tour From Lima

Epic 2-day machu picchu tour from lima or cusco.

The 2-day Machu Picchu Tour from Lima  begins with a flight from Lima to Cusco and then train to Machu Picchu. Our private tours pick you up from Cusco airport and shows the sacred valley Inca sites on the way to Ollantaytambo station. Embark on a scenic train journey to Machu Picchu town and receive an assistance to your hotel upon arrival. The small town of Machu Picchu offers a nice atmosphere to eat, drink or simply to take a walk before you go to sleep.

Machu Picchu Tour Package from Lima allows you to visit the UNESCO heritage site and wonder of the world in 2 days. Tours from Lima to Machu Picchu also reveal the iconic monuments of the Incas and Peru’s most famous historical landmarks. Take an exceptional guided tour of the intriguing stone structures as you learn the history of the ancient Incas. Your private guide no only explains the history behind each group, but also shows some of the best photo spots at this magical place.

Our Machu Picchu Tours from Lima are ideal and interesting for those who are short on time. This all-inclusive tour to Machu Picchu is perfect for cruise passengers or people on a business trip in Lima. This tour itinerary seems to be very short and fast, but it is more than enough to visit the must-see destinations of Cusco region. Discover the best highlights of the Sacred Valley, and world-famous Machu Picchu on this 2-day incredible journey.

Mapi Tour guarantees exclusive excursions that allow you to truly immerse in the destination like no other. Make your dream trip a reality by the hand of local experts and make the most of your time in Peru.

BEST 2-DAY MACHU PICCHU TOUR FROM LIMA 

The 2-day Machu Picchu Tours from Lima generally begin with a flight to Cusco, tour to sacred valley, then train to Machu Picchu town, and visit the Inca site with your private tour guide.

Embark on this fascinating experience, exploring the Inca sites of Chinchero, Maras salt mines, Moray and Ollantaytambo . Late in the afternoon, board the train to Aguas Calientes town and stay the night at your selected hotel.

The next day take the early shuttle bus and receive your private guided tour of the Inca city of Machu Picchu . Experience all the groups of interest and return to Aguas Calientes for lunch time. Take the return train to Ollantaytambo and then board a private van back to Cusco for your flight to Lima.

DETAILS OF MACHU PICCHU TOURS FROM LIMA:

• Pick up Location: Cusco airport.
• Tour Duration: 2 days/1 night
• Max Elevation: 3,762m/12,342ft.
• Tour Service: Private tour.
• Physical Grading: Moderate.
• Tickets: All entrance tickets.
• Highlights: Chinchero, Maras, Moray, Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu.
• Drop off Location: Cusco airport.

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Itinerary & Map

Machu picchu tour from lima 2 days itinerary.

Day 1: Flight from Lima to Cusco – Private Van from Cusco to Ollantaytambo – Train Trip to Machu Picchu – Hotel overnight.

After one hour flight on your own, you arrive in Cusco city (Morning schedule). Here you will be picked up by our private guide and transportation. Once aboard, you will head toward Chinchero and experience the step by step weaving demonstration process. This place also shows you the Inca site and beautiful colonial church.

Next, continue in your private vehicle to Maras’ Salt mines . Visit 4 thousand salt pans built by Maras and Pichingoto andean communities. Your expert guide will explain to you the way how the salt is extracted and sold on the market.

After, take a scenic journey through crop fields and remote villages to Moray . This spectacular Inca complex comprises four circular depressions with stone terraces in its cotour. Most scholars theorize that they were used to acclimate crops to different altitudes.

Later, take a guided tour of Ollantaytambo and the last Inva village. You will delve into the Inca history and local culture. Enjoy your dinner before you take the train to Machu Picchu pueblo at 7:00 pm. Once there, you will be assisted to your hotel.

Day 2: Bus to Machu Picchu – Guided Tour of Machu Picchu – Return by Train to Ollantaytambo – Transfer By Private Van to Cusco Airport – Flight to Lima.

In the morning eat your breakfast and take the first bus along with your guide to Machu Picchu. Learn the history of the Inca empire as you visit the ancient structures of Machu Picchu on a private guided tour.

Return to Machu Picchu town and have lunch before boarding the train. The train leaves at 2:55 pm to Ollantaytambo station. Upon arrival, you will be met by our driver and taken to the airport of Cusco. We highly recommend booking the flight tickets for as late as possible.

Prices & Inclusions

Our private tour to Machu Picchu from Lima is perfect for friends, couples, and families because you can leave any date you wish. With our 2-day tours to Machu Picchu, you set your pace to maximize your experience. You don’t have to wait for others, this trip starts with only 02 travelers.

PRICES PER PERSON:

2 – 3 People – $ 710.00 4 – 5 People – $ 0.00 6 – 7 People – $ .00

TOUR INCLUDES:

• Private vehicle.
• Expert Tour Guide.
• Sacred Valley Tourist Ticket.
• Lunch in Ollantaytambo.
• RT train tickets.
• RT bus tickets.
• Lunch in Machu Picchu pueblo.
• Machu Picchu Tickets.

TOUR EXCLUDES:

• Domestic flight ticket.
• Meals not mentioned in paragraph included.
• Drinks or snacks.
• Any item not specified in paragraph included.

BRING FOR 2-DAY MACHU PICCHU TOUR FROM LIMA:

• Original passport.
• Rain jacket or poncho.
• Trekking boots (rather than sneakers).
• Hat or cap to protect you from the sun.
• Sunblock, minimum 30 SPF.
• Bottle of water.
• Personal medical kit with prescriptions.
• Cash for tipping staff and buying souvenirs.

CUSTOMIZE YOUR TOUR EXPERIENCES AROUND PERU

We design a custom-made travel to connect you with our country through your interests. Feel free to modify this prearranged itinerary and other vacation packages of our website. You decide where to visit, how long to spend in each place, type of accommodation that suits you best, and more including:

• Adding extra activities to your itinerary.
• Assisting with planning a business trip.
• Getting hotel Upgrades.
• Arranging any special packages to celebrate important occasions, whether it’s an anniversary, birthday, retirement, honeymoon, or other events.

Contact us to help you planning the adventure of your dreams.

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Trip details:.

Length: 2 days / 1 night Tour Type: Private Service

Price From:

USD $: 710.00

Cultural Tours

Virtual Tour:

Highlights:.

• Maras salt mines
• Ollantaytambo
• Machu Picchu

OTHER TOURS YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN

• Email: [email protected]
• Mobile: (+51) 984 714 180
• Address:| Picchu Alto R’ N-12 Cusco – Perú
• Web: www.mapitourperu.com
• Mon to Sat: 9:00am to 8:00pm

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• Office: +51 84 254278
• WhatsApp: 202-550-8534
• USA Rep: 202-550-8534
• Manager's WhatsApp: +51 986 029262
• Owner's WhatsApp: +51 947 824774

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THE #1 TOUR OPERATOR OF PERU

Leading the Way in Sustainable Tourism and Community Projects in Peru

BOOK YOUR INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU 2024

Book your inca trail to machu picchu.

Travel confidently with Alpaca Expeditions, the only Peru tour operator with over 20,000 excellent reviews on Trip Advisor "LOCAL - INDIGENOUS - SUSTAINABLE"

As the #1 tour operator in Peru, Alpaca Expeditions prides ourselves on superior service to our clients, creating unique and memorable adventures all around Peru. We will tailor each package and tour to fit your needs, no matter if you are a family with young children or a bunch of friends seeking an adventure. We pride ourselves on being sustainable and responsible, committed to improving the lives of our team and their families with better wages and services. We welcome all to visit Peru and can’t wait to introduce you to the Inca traditions. Our home is your next adventure.

Only company with More than 20,000 excellent reviews on Tripadvisor

Only company with 4 ISO + Green FootPrint ISO, International Organization for Standarization

Awards , Recognized as the Best Travel Agency in Peru

Trekkers Blogs  The best way to understand the experience of travelling with Alpaca is reading and watching what others have experienced with us.

More than 2K trips made safely with our  Satellite Phones

NEW and UNIQUE , 2022 add on will be the  cooking class  in all our camping treks , learn to cook under the stars and next to the mountains.

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Hiking through the Peruvian Andes is no simple feat. Towering mountain ranges, lush cloud forests, vast valleys, and winding rivers are sure to leave you awestruck during your time in the Andes. Let our team of experts guide you in what is to become an unbeatable experience in nature. Join us, Peru’s #1 tour operator, in an adventure of a lifetime.

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Peru is filled with wonders sure to impress anyone. Here at Alpaca Expeditions, we have designed some of the best tour packages in Peru to include only the very best our country has to offer. Whether it is the Peruvian Andes or the warm coastal regions you wish to experience, we have something for you.

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Locally owned and operated., top trip leaders., highest quality, name brand equipment., delicious and nutritious meals, catering to all food restrictions., superior inclusions to competitors with no hidden fees., sustainable and responsible travel., safety conscious with first aid training annually., unique service philosophy dedicated to our porter welfare equally to our client services., fair and kind travel., equal employer with a focus on women’s rights in tourism., international and local recognition..

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Alpaca Difference

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Leading the Way in Sustainable Tourism and Community Projects in Peru Since 2013

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Queuña Trees

Free Medical Assistance to Porters

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Fixing the smiles of Choquekancha villagers

English Teacher in Llullucha Town

Empowering peru women and opening the door to women in tourism.

We understand the importance of extra safety measures to make sure our Peru Women Guides and Porters are comfortable at all times. Sexual harassment is real in all industries, but with women and men sleeping so close together, we needed to be clear on proper behavior. We decided to hire an outside coach to review with everyone on our team the Do’s and Don’ts. He helped to reinforce the rules we have at Alpaca Expeditions, like no drinking on the job (this leads to poor choices), no touching, careful language, be respectful to everyone. And a reminder that we are a team and we need to stick up for each other and ourselves.

ALPACA EXPEDITIONS & SUSTAINABLE TOURISM

The tourism industry is very important in Peru and it also has a great impact on a lot of families and the environment itself. Alpaca Expeditions is a sustainable tourism tour operator. We protect our land and environment at every tour and trek to preserve it for future generations. Alpaca Expeditions also retributes with the local communities with different social projects all along every year. We do our best to get back to our communities and also to make the best for our staff. We protect our land, our clients and our staff. Travelling responsibly is the new way to travel and we can make it happen for you!

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Alpaca expeditions recognitions, iso (international organization for standardization).

In the pursuit to stand out from the rest, Alpaca Expeditions has obtained four ISOs plus our carbon footprint certificate to date. These achievements result from our efforts to implement the internationally-recognized integrated management system. They also represent our commitment to all of our clients and staff of operating sustainability and responsibility in every way possible.

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Hotel to Hotel service

Regarding the transportation provided by Alpaca Expeditions, we are committed to delivering a quality service. We strive to ensure that passengers feel supported throughout their journey. To achieve this, we coordinate closely with our guides and representatives to ensure timely pick-up at the start of their tours. Additionally, we have representatives responsible for escorting our passengers to their hotels at the conclusion of any tour.

Our drivers are not only trained in customer service but also come properly uniformed, and many are fluent in English.

Typically, all transportation types are included in each of our services. For instance, if you have booked a trekking tour, we will pick you up early, typically between 4 AM and 5 AM. When visiting Cusco, it's important to note that traffic here is generally moderate. However, there are peak traffic times, such as between 7 AM and 8 AM, which coincide with school hours, and in the evening between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Therefore, if you have a flight during these times, it's crucial to be at the airport at least 2 hours in advance. The drivers of Alpaca Expeditions ensure their vehicles are prepared with all necessities before each service. They are acutely aware that delays can lead to missed trains, flights, or other connections. Consequently, they are always more than punctual, arriving at least 10 minutes before the scheduled time for any service, understanding the responsibility they carry in executing these tasks.

Personal Porter of 7KG

Remember that Alpaca Expeditions offers an extra 7 kg allowance for your personal belongings on any of our tours. We include a personal porter who is responsible for carrying your duffel bag without any additional fee. You will not have access to your duffel bag until you reach your evening campsite. The bag should not exceed 7 kg, which includes 4 kg for clothes and 3 kg for your sleeping bag and sleeping mat.

Each Alpaca Expeditions porter is paid directly after each trek, allowing them to return home more quickly. They receive better wages than our competitors, health insurance, and all their equipment free of charge, including hiking boots, pants, jerseys, fleeces, jackets, hats, flashlights, sleeping bags, and high-quality food. We ensure each of our porters has a comfortable bed in a pleasant room to sleep in before and after each trek. We also visit the communities they live in, providing toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, and other necessary supplies to their families, along with books for their children.

This is just the beginning for us, and we are always looking for ways to do more. While the government allows each porter to carry up to 25 kg, we limit this to 20 kg to prioritize their health and safety. Each porter carries up to 15 kg of company equipment and 5 kg of personal items. This is why it is crucial to keep your personal duffel bag weight under our 7 kg limit. You might see other companies allowing their porters to carry more than the allotted weight, but at Alpaca Expeditions, we strictly adhere to these limits to ensure our porters' well-being.

Clases de Cocina

Alpaca Expeditions offers its passengers the chance to experience local cooking. We aim to immerse trekkers in Inca life by walking them through the original Inca paths and teaching them about Inca culture. Food is a significant part of Inca life, making it a special element in any tour or trek with Alpaca Expeditions.

In 2022, Alpaca Expeditions introduced a cooking class as part of each of our treks, conducted by our amazing trekking chefs and interpreted by our guides.

We will transform your dining tent into a makeshift kitchen, providing all the necessary supplies to prepare a Peruvian specialty. Your chef will guide you step by step through the process of making a traditional Peruvian meal, such as Lomo Saltado, and share some essential mountain cooking tips.

Peru is recognized as a top culinary destination, largely thanks to the popularity of our renowned beef dish, Lomo Saltado. This is most often the meal you will learn to cook, but there is also the opportunity to learn how to prepare other dishes like traditional Peruvian ceviche or even our signature drink, the pisco sour.

Cooking Class on the Inca Trail: These classes are voluntary and designed to be a fun, educational experience. Our clients consistently marvel at the amazing ability of our chefs to create culinary magic on a mountaintop. As you learn to prepare and cook Peruvian specialties, you will also see firsthand how such elaborate meals can be created on a small campsite stove.

Enjoy a cooking class in the mountains and be sure to take plenty of photos, just in case your friends won't believe your incredible experience.

Satellite Phones

The best way to hike in the mountains of Peru is to completely disconnect from technology, especially the internet and cell phones. The most impressive and exciting aspect is the opportunity to experience the true and wonderful nature that we often miss when we are at home, watching TV or absorbed in our cell phones during our leisure time. The feeling of being disconnected from work and the daily routine left at home is incredible.

However, this remoteness means limited access to emergency resources. That's why Alpaca Expeditions has invested in satellite phones for every trek.

We are prepared to assist you in case of any emergency, particularly health-related issues. For this reason, Alpaca Expeditions has invested in satellite phones, as they are one of the most crucial tools for any operator trekking in remote areas where telephone or television signals are absent. This means that every guide on our treks will be equipped with a fully charged satellite phone as well as radios. While these are primarily for emergencies, we allow our clients to use them at any time.

We ask that you cover the cost, which is $2.50 per minute. This fee can be paid in cash at our office or via PayPal once you have completed the trek.

Being just a phone call away from any doctor, hospital, or friend helps everyone feel assured of their safety. Radios, which all our guides carry, have limited reach, so Alpaca Expeditions includes satellite phones to ensure that we can connect no matter where we are on the mountain.

Portable private toilet

We understand that our clients will need restroom facilities at various times and locations during their journey. Along the Inca Trail, there are restrooms available, particularly those belonging to the communities near the trail. Alpaca Expeditions provides portable toilets to enhance this service, which will be set up at each meal site or campsite.

As with any mountain trip where we are exposed to nature, it is possible to use natural areas as restrooms. However, it is crucial to be mindful of the waste we generate, such as toilet paper or wet wipes used for cleaning. These should be carried with us and not discarded on the ground or left along the trail. Remember, the Inca Trail is a protected area overseen by a government institution. In places where garbage bins are unavailable, particularly at our camps, we provide special plastic bags for waste. Our porter team will be responsible for carrying out our waste.

Please be aware that although there are designated bathrooms for men and women, in practice, both genders often use the same facilities. Functionally, there is no significant difference between men's and women's bathrooms. Therefore, it is common for people of all genders to use whichever bathroom is available.

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Cusco Machu Picchu Packages – Machu Picchu Tours from Lima

• TOURIST CLASS SIX DAYS Start Time: 08:00 Available: 9 seats
• SUPERIOR CLASS SIX DAYS Start Time: 08:00 Available: 9 seats

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Tour Details

Cusco Machu Picchu Packages offers a complete tour of Lima (City of Kings), Cusco (Former Capital of Incas), Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu (the emblematic citadel of the Inca Empire).  Popularly known as Machu Picchu tours from Lima , this is one of our signature tours. 

We have designed this vacation package tour to give you a complete orientation of Inca civilization before our visit Machu Picchu. The Inca citadel is the most visited attraction in South America. 

We have dedicated local tour guides (travel experts) for each attraction. As locals, they have immense knowledge about the history, culture and archaeological sites. 

Why Machu Picchu Kingdom?

At Machu Picchu Kingdom, we take pride in operating our tours with local crew. Our tour guides are born and raised in Cusco and have plenty of knowledge about Inca civilization. They are certified tourism professionals and are fluent in English. 

Do take a moment to check our reviews on Trip Advisor . Feel free to contact us if you need any latest Travel Information before you visit Peru . 

Departure & Return Location

Lima Airport Transfer

Departure Time

Depends on your flight’s arrival time

Price Includes

• All the transport mentioned in the itinerary (tourist bus, etc.)
• Hotel accommodation with breakfast
• Entrance to parks and places of cultural and tourist interest
• Guided visits and excursions mentioned
• Local English speaking tour guide.
• All transfers
• Food as indicated in the itinerary
• Vistadome Class train tickets

Price Excludes

• International flights
• Domestic flights
• Additional nights during the trip due to cancellations of flights
• Alcoholic beverages or bottled water
• Insurance of any kind
• Phone calls
• Flight reconfirmation
• Excess baggage
• Mandatory personal travel insurance
• Meals that are not mentioned
• Entrance to Machu Picchu

Recommended To Carry

• Entrance Fees

Day 1 Lima Airport Transfer

Our representative will be meeting you at Lima Airport on arrival and will be transferring you to your hotel in the city. You will have the entire day to yourself. 

Meals Included: None

Day 2 Lima City Tour

After breakfast, you will have a free morning. At 0230 PM, our tour guide will be picking you up from the hotel for a complete city tour of Lima. 

This excursion offers the best combination of the various attractions of Lima in its three historical periods: pre-Hispanic, colonial and contemporary. In Lima, various pre-Columbian cultures have developed that date back thousands of years. 

Lima was part of the Inca Empire until its foundation by the Spanish Francisco Pizarro on January 18, 1535. 

After the tour, we will return to the Hotel. 

• Accommodation in Lima Hotel
• Food: Breakfast

Day 3 Lima - Cusco - Cusco City Tour

After breakfast, we will be transferring you to Lima Airport. Here you will be boarding a 1:30 hours flight to Cusco. On arrival, we will be transferring you to the hotel in Cusco. 

At 0130 PM, we will be picking you up from the hotel for a detailed tour of Cusco City. . 

Cusco City Tour:

At 0130 PM, we will be picking you up from your hotel to begin the Cusco City Tour. On this half day tour, we will be visiting the Cusco Cathedral, Sun Temple (Coricancha), Sacsayhuaman, Q’enqo, Puca Pucara and Tambomachay. 

Cusco Cathedral:

Cusco Cathedral stands right on the main square of Cusco – Plaza de Armas. It was once an Inca Palace. On conquering Cusco, the Spanish rulers demolished the palace and built the cathedral on its remains. It portrays a blend of Inca and Colonial architecture. 

Qorikancha:

Qorikancha, also referred to as the temple of Sun, was a supreme site of worship to Incas. The Incas revered Sun (Inti) and this former Inca temple was very important to them. But, as most sites in Cusco, the Spanish rulers demolished the temple and built the church on its remains. 

Legends say that the temple was once covered in Gold. When the Spanish rulers abducted the then Inca Emperor, Atahualpa, most of the gold from the temple was paid as a ransom. But the Spanish to the typical colonial way, beheaded him on receiving the ransom. 

Sacsayhuaman:

The tour continues with a drive to Sacsayhuaman. It is a notable Inca fortress. Here you will be able to see some of the impressive stonework of Incas. 

Each rock here weighs over a ton. It is still a mystery though how the Incas transported these rocks here. 

We will then visit Q’enqo. This small archaeological site was used by Incas as a place where they did sacrifices and mummified corpses. 

Puca Pucara:

The tour continues with a driver further to Puca Pucara. This massive rock was used by Inca militants as a watchtower to safeguard Cusco from any intruders. 

Tambomachay:

Finally, we will be visiting Tambomachay. It has a series of aqueducts which were built by Incas and are in use even today. This place served as a spa to the political elite. 

After the tour, we will be driving you back to the centre of Cusco City. 

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 4 Sacred Valley of the Incas

After the breakfast at your hotel, we will be picking you up at 0830 for your full day Sacred Valley Tour. We will begin with a drive to Pisac. This is one of the most charismatic villages in the Sacred Valley. 

Pisac is popular for its weekend market. Farmers and craftsmen from neighbouring villages set up tents around the main square to sell their products. The village is also home to Inca ruins that nestles on a hilltop, overlooking the valley. 

This Inca ruins is second to the city of Machu Picchu in size. Here we will be giving you a complete tour of the complex. You will be introduced to Incas farming techniques and their rituals that they practised here.

We will then drive you to Urubamba. Here we will be serving you a typical Peruvian lunch (included in the price) before visiting the Ollantaytambo fortress.

Ollantaytambo:

Ollantaytambo is a beautiful village. It is the best example of Inca Empire’s town planning. The village is snuggled in between two hills. We will be visiting the fortress here.

It was built by Inca ruler Pachacutec who also built Machu Picchu and Choquequirao. 

However, Manco Inca expanded it. It served as his stronghold when the Spanish invaded Ollantaytambo. He and his troops managed to defeat Spanish intruders in the battle of Ollantaytambo.

After the detailed tour of the complex, we will drive you to Ollantaytambo Train station. Here you will be boarding a train to Aguas Calientes. It will be a three hours journey. You will get jaw dropping views of the Peruvian Highland farms and villages. 

Our representative will be meeting you at Aguas Calientes on arrival and will transfer you to the hotel. 

• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5 Machu Picchu Tour (Full Day) - Return to Cusco

The most awaited day on your trip to Peru. After relishing an early morning breakfast, we will be taking a bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, the Inca citadel. This is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Once at the entrance of the citadel, our representative will be meeting you and will be assisting you in entering the citadel. 

As you will be walking into the citadel, the clouds would be clearing by as the golden rays of the sun would shimmer on the walls of the citadel. 

Our local expert will be giving you a detailed tour of the citadel for two hours. During the trip, you will be visiting some of the important parts of the citadel like the ceremonial centre, main plaza, house of the priests and more. 

After the tour, you will have some free time to explore the citadel on your own. If you have booked to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain, our tour guide will be directing you to the respective trail head. 

Alternatively, you can hike to the Sun gate. It offers a panoramic view of Machu Picchu. This is where those on the Inca Trail arrive at Machu Picchu. 

After the full day trip to Machu Picchu, you will be taking a bus back down to Aguas Calientes town. Here we will be stopping for lunch at a local restaurant. 

Later in the evening, we will be taking the train back to Ollantaytambo. Our representative will be meeting you and will transfer you back to the hotel in Cusco. 

• Accommodation: Cusco Hotel
• Meals Included: Breakfast and  Lunch

Day 6 Cusco Airport Transfer

We will be picking you up from the hotel in Cusco and will transfer you to Cusco Airport.

Related Tours

Machu Picchu & Amazon Basin 10D with Wasai Lodge

• +51 996 550 700
• +51 984 585 909
• [email protected]

One-Day Experiences

• Machu Picchu Tour From Aguas Calientes
• 1 Day Machupicchu Tour from Cusco
• 1 Day Machu Picchu Tour from Ollantaytambo 
• 1 Day Machu Picchu Tour from Urubamba
• 1 Day Machu Picchu Luxury Experience

Multi-Day Experiences

• 2 Day Machu Picchu Tour & Sacred Valley 
• 3 Day Machu Picchu Tour & Sacred Valley
• 4 Day Machu Picchu Tour & Cusco
• 5 Day Machu Picchu Tour & Rainbow Mountain
• Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Signature Experiences

• 2 Day Machu Picchu, Sunset And Sunrise Experience
• 5 Day Machu Picchu & Sacred Valley Highlights
• 7 Day Machu Picchu & Sacred Valley Experience from Lima 
• 9 Day Machu Picchu & Lake Titicaca from Lima 

Cusco Guided Tours

• Best of Cusco City Guided Tour
• Rainbow Mountain Day Trip
• Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour
• Humantay Lake Day Trip
• Cusco City Walking Tour & Food Market
• 5-Day Machu Picchu Tour and Rainbow Mountain

Sacred Valley Tours

• Best of Sacred Valley Tour
• Absolute Sacred Valley Tour 
• Sacred Valley Tour from Ollantaytambo
• Sacred Valley from Cusco to Ollantaytambo
• 2 Day Sacred Valley Relaxed Tour from Cusco Airport
• 2-Day Tour: Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu Hikes

• 2 Day Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu
• 5 Day Inca Trail To Machu Picchu
• Lares Trek And Short Inca Trail 5 Days
• Salkantay Trek To Machu Picchu 5 Days

Machu Picchu Alternative Treks

• Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days
• Ausangate Trek To Rainbow Mountain 4 Days
• Ausangate Trek To Rainbow Mountain 5 Days
• Choquequirao Trek 5 Days

Best Day Hikes from Cusco

• Best Sacred Valley Hike Huaypo Lake
• Ausangate 7 Lakes Day Trip From Cusco
• Sacred Valley Hike On Hidden Inca Trail
• Sacred Valley Hike To Hidden Inca Ruins
• Machu Picchu
• Sacred Valley
• Rainbow Mountains
• Lake Titicaca
• Our Reviews

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• 4 Day Machu Picchu Tour

4 Day Machu Picchu Tour, The Best Tour Package by Local Guides

Explore the best of Cusco, the Sacred Valley,  and the famed UNESCO site – Machupicchu on this amazing 4-Day Guided Express Tour.

Embark on this exciting 4-day Machu Picchu Tour, and make sure you don’t miss experiencing all of Peru’s top destinations. Don’t let limited time stop you from visiting the magnificent Machu Picchu! Start your adventure exploring the fascinating city of Cusco – a mix of colonial and ancient architecture, by visiting the must-do places within the city’s historical center and the surrounding sites.

Journey through the Sacred Valley toward the famous Machu Picchu citadel, visiting amazing sites such as Chinchero, Moray, the salt mines of Maras, and Ollantaytambo. Complete your adventure by spending a day on a private guided tour to Machu Picchu with our expert local guide be amazed by the stunning scenery of the surrounding mountains as Wayna Picchu mountain.

This is a perfect tour for first-time visitors, couples, and small groups; especially for travelers with limited time in Peru, it is also great for business travelers in Lima, those attending special events and cruise ship passengers who are willing to make the best use of their limited time in Peru.

Why you will love this tour

• In just four days, you will see the iconic sites in Peru, including the famous Sacred Valley, the new7wonder of the world – Machu Picchu, and the colonial Cusco city.
• This exclusive 4-Day itinerary introduces you to the history of the Incas and the local culture as you explore the beautiful Sacred Valley, Cusco and Machu Picchu.
• Enjoy a personalized guided tour of one of the New7Wonders of the World and capture photos from prime vantage points and meet the local residents – the Llamas
• We don’t follow the crowds, while we include the must-see highlights in this tour; we make every effort to avoid most of the crowds.
• This is a private tour experience so you enjoy a personal experience, go at your own pace, and be able to talk to your guide, ask questions, and be involved during the tour.

Trip Details

• Tour Type: Private Tour
• Start:   Cusco Airport (We can also start from Lima Airport)
• Finish: Cusco Airport
• Pick-up Time: We recommend arriving in Cusco before midday on Day 1
• Duration: 04 Days
• Mode: Private car, Train, Walking
• Difficulty: MODERATE, you don’t need to be super-fit, although there is quite a lot of walking on trails with altitudes above 3700 meters above sea level  (12100 feet) as well as there will be many stone-made steps up and down.
• Customizable: YES! Feel free to contact us to customize this tour, add-ons are all available. We are happy to adjust this tour to fit your interests and travel timeframe.

Day 1. Best of Cusco city tour (4 Hours)

• Upon your arrival, we will meet you at Cusco Airport and will transport you to your comfortable Hotel in the Cusco city’s historical center. Spend the rest of the morning relaxing at your Hotel to acclimate to the altitude. We recommend resting at your hotel for a couple of hours and having a light lunch before joining our guided tour that will introduce you to the local history, culture, and food.

Afternoon: Guided Tour

• We will start off with a walking tour, visiting t he Plaza the Armas – Cusco’s town square . There are a variety of times during the tour when we find ourselves focusing on the Inca walls of Cusco , searching for the seven snakes of Siete Culebras, admiring the famous 12-angled stone of Hatunrumiyoc, or for the shape of the puma at Inca Roca. 
• Next, to the vibrant San Pedro Market . It’s always a popular stop with guests to Cusco not just because of its vibrant colors and activity but also for the insight it provides into local life.
• Then, visit one of the most impressive Inca temples, the Qorikancha – the Incan Temple of the Sun. This was once the most sacred Temple in Cusco, dedicated to the supreme Inca deity – The Sun God. 
• Lastly and surely one of the most impressive, explore Sacsayhuaman , the Royal House of the Sun, and one of the greatest stone monuments in Incan architecture. 

Day 2. Best of Sacred Valley Tour

• Pick up from your Hotel will be later @7.30 AM.
• We will first visit Chinchero , A small town famous for its spectacular mountain views, the traditional textile weaving cooperatives, and the well-preserved Inkan ruins. At the end of the tour, we will drive to your Hotel
• By midmorning, We will explore the amazing Agriculture Terraces of Moray , believed to be an elaborate agricultural laboratory, and the famous  Salt Mines of Maras , where locals obtain Salt from a local subterranean water stream.
• By midday, we will make a stop at a local restaurant for a deserved lunch (Lunch is NOT included in the price)
• Finally, after lunch, visit the Inca town of Ollantaytambo and explore the fascinating megalithic Ruins, learn about Inca culture and explore the local handcraft market along the way.
• At the end of the tour, we will end this tour at the Train Station in Ollantaytambo so we take the early evening Train to Machu Picchu Town (A.K.A. Aguas Calientes) at 7 PM

Day 3. Machu Picchu Guided Tour 

• Get ready for your private guided tour of Machu Picchu!
• Early in the morning, you will meet your Guide at your Hotel lobby, he will show you the way to the bus station and hop on the shuttle bus up to Machu Picchu Park. Your private guide will accompany you to the Guard House at Machu Picchu where you’ll get the best view of this World Wonder, as well as an extended tour and explanation of the history, surrounding areas, and the sacred legend of Machu Picchu. 
• Following your private tour (optional and subject to availability at extra cost) you can join us on the Hike to Huaynapicchu Mountain. Then, return to Aguas Calientes and have time for lunch 
• Finally, you’ll begin your journey back to Ollantaytambo or Cusco. 

Day 4. Departure Day.

• You can depart Cusco City at any time during the day and connect to your international flight or cruise ship. We will provide a transfer to the Airport.
• You can extend your trip by one extra day and choose from additional activities such as making a day trip to the Rainbow Mountains , immersing yourself in local culture, taking a cooking class to learn about traditional Peruvian cuisine, or embarking on a day hike to Humantay Lake for a breathtaking natural experience. This allows you to further customize your itinerary and make the most out of your trip to the Cusco region.

Note on the Itinerary

While we strive to adhere to the schedule outlined above, please note that this itinerary is subject to change due to factors beyond our control. These factors may include incidents at the trip location, strikes, political disputes, severe weather, flight cancellations, and other unforeseeable circumstances. Cusco Local Friend cannot be held responsible for such changes.

In such situations, we may need to adjust our original schedule and provide alternative options to ensure you have a great experience. Please be aware that any additional expenses incurred as a result of these changes will be the sole responsibility of the client and not be covered by Cusco Local Friend.

• Airport transfers (Arrival and Departure)
• Transportation for all tours + pickups and drop-offs
• English-speaking licensed local guide
• Cusco Tour, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu Tours are on a private basis
• For the Cusco city Tour: Transportation, Entrance Tickets, and Tour Guide
• For the Sacred Valley Tour: Transportation, Entrance Tickets and Tour Guide
• For the Machu Picchu tour: round trip train tickets, entrance ticket, Shuttle Bus ticket, private Guide
• 3-Night Accommodation in a 3-Star Hotel in Cusco and Aguas Calientes (If you book the Hotel on your own, we will deduct this cost from the tour price)

Not Included

• Upgrade to VISTADOME glass-roof train: $70 USD per person for a round-trip ticket
• Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu Mountain/Huayna Picchu (optional and subject to availability) – $70 USD per person
• Travel Insurance

Book this Experience

What to expect breathtaking views, mild to hot temperatures although kind of windy at some places in the afternoons; mostly sunny days during the months of may, june, july, and august, although some mornings would be a little foggy in machu picchu (some days very foggy in the rainy season); mosquito area (machu picchu); lots of history about the inca empire; friendly english speaking tour guide; your journey your way why travel with us, local knowledge & expertise.

It's great to travel with professional experts from the same destination you are going, that's how you get first-hand information. With deep in-country knowledge, We know the ins and outs of all the logistics, we will ensure you can make the most of your time away.

Personalized Experiences

Your time is precious - we know that. Your experience is our top priority. No big bus groups, No flags to follow! Traveling with a private guide and driver you’ll do what you want, when you want with the freedom to change your plans on the fly.

Friendly Local Guides

Great sights don’t make an amazing tour. Great guides do! Our guides don’t read from a script, we give them the freedom to make each tour their own, and your experience unique. We love what we do and it shows. From the moment you arrive, you'll feel the buzz and excitement that Cusco Local Friend to offer.

Exclusive Itineraries

It’s not all about the destination, it’s also about the journey. We offer only the best itineraries and tours. As local experts, we know first-hand what tours or experiences are the ones that most travelers enjoy and request. Escape the crowds! Never waste any minute, never miss any highlight!

Trip Reviews

Cusco Local Friend has been awarded the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence due to the most consistent 5-star reviews in Cusco, the Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu for exceptional levels of service and care.

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Start planning here.

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Machu Picchu

Explore one of the world's greatest wonders with our private and small group Machu Picchu tours. Enveloped within a dramatic landscape where the Andes meet the Amazon basin, the ancient city of Machu Picchu was built to perfection by the mighty Inca Empire. You can arrive at Machu Picchu via train or an unforgettable multi-day trekking expedition. Once you step foot into this UNESCO World Heritage site, you’ll discover its refined architecture, spiritual meaning and astronomical importance. You will be accompanied by an expert, local, English-speaking guide who will bring the ruins to life through its fascinating oral history.

Fully Customizable

Personalized service, handpicked hotels, 5000 + testimonials, the 10 best machu picchu for 2024/2025, our team strives for the utmost quality, comfort, and great value for all of our travelers. get started customizing your trip with an expert travel advisor..

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The most flexible booking terms!

Zero postponement fees up to 30 days before arrival, transferable travel credit , and only a 30% deposit required to secure your trip.

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Customize your Tour

What to see at machu picchu.

Huayna Picchu

Hike to the top of Huayna Picchu for extraordinary views of Machu Picchu as well as the chance to visit an extra set of ruins on the way. Entrance tickets for Huayna Picchu are limited, so be sure to reserve yours in advance.

Machu Picchu Mountain

Another popular hiking option, Machu Picchu Mountain offers incredible panoramic views of the ruins and the surrounding Andes Mountains. Like Huayna Picchu, entrance tickets to Machu Picchu Mountain are limited so be sure to reserve yours in advance.

The iconic Sun Gate (called Inti Punku in Quechua) is the entrance through which Inca Trail hikers enter the Machu Picchu citadel. It is also possible to visit this attraction as an additional hike for those visiting Machu Picchu on a day trip.

One of the first attractions you’ll visit on your Machu Picchu tour, the Guardhouse (also known as the House of the Guardians or Guardian’s hut) was once used by sentinels watching over the citadel, but nowadays it makes a great spot for sweeping panoramic photos of the ruins.

Sacred Rock

The enormous Sacred Rock (also called a Wank’a in Quechua) bears a striking resemblance to the mountain peaks behind it, and is considered a powerful spiritual symbol of Machu Picchu.

Temple of The Three Windows

One of Machu Picchu’s most iconic places, the Temple of the Three Windows overlooks the Sacred Plaza and consists of three windows in the typical Incan trapezoidal style.

Inca Bridge

A popular additional hiking destination inside Machu Picchu, The Inca Bridge (Puente Inca) is a thin wooden plank crossing a mile-high precipice found at the end of a narrow stone pathway. Designed as a secret exit, its precarious nature helped to limit access to the citadel.

Temple of the Condor

This natural rock formation which was carved by the Incas into the shape of an Andean condor was an object of worship and represents one of the most striking examples of Inca stonemasonry.

“Stairway of Fountains”

The engineering ingenuity of the Incas can be seen in the 16 fountains built within the Machu Picchu citadel. Likely used by the residents of Machu Picchu, these Incan water fountains still flow with water sourced from a spring near the Sun Gate or Inti Punku.

Temple of the Sun

The Temple of the Sun is a semicircular ruin within the Machu Pichu citadel. This site was one of the most sacred temples within the fortress. The trapezoid window is positioned so that on the winter solstice (June 21st), the sun’s rays shine directly into the temple.

Temple of the Moon

You’ll have to hike Huayna Picchu mountain, within the Machu Picchu citadel, to see the Temple of the Moon. This shadowy temple contains a throne carved into the stone and was used only by the Inca priests for ceremonial purposes.

Intihuatana

The famous Intihuatana, whose Quechua name is often translated to English as “The Hitching Post of the Sun,” is a carved stone which is thought to have possibly been used as a type of sundial.

Machu Picchu Hotels

Sumaq Machu Picchu

Avenida Hermanos Ayar Mz 1 Lote 3, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu

Av. Pachacutec 109, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu

Casa Andina Standard Machu Picchu

Prolongacion Imperio de Los Incas E - 34, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu

Pucara Hotel

Alameda los Artesanos 1508, Machu Picchu

Peru Highlights

Peru is filled with archaeological ruins, scenic landscapes, and delicious flavors. Must-see places in Peru include:

Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in four or two days. The Inca Trail is a 500-year old pathway where the elite Incas once entered into the “Lost City of the Incas”. Plan with your Peru for Less travel advisor in advance, Inca Trail permits tend to sell out even 6-months in advance.

Amazon Rainforest

Step into the lush Peruvian Amazon Rainforest and witness a spectacular array of wildlife in its natural habitat. Lodges in Puerto Maldonado are ideal for excursions and daily activities. Those looking for a more luxurious Amazon experience would love an Iquitos Amazon River cruise. Colorful macaws, giant tarantulas, and playful river otters are among the sights you’ll behold.

Cusco city has it all, archaeological ruins, colonial buildings, top-rated restaurants, and countless places to explore. Your Cusco City Tour will take you to the top highlights like Sacsayhuaman, Q’enko, the Cusco Cathedral, and more.

Arequipa is a picturesque town and also the second-largest city in Peru. Local markets, beautifully built colonial architecture, and El Misti volcano are among the things you’ll see while walking the cobblestone streets of the white city.

Lake Titicaca

Sail on the deep blue waters of Lake Titicaca and step on the reed Uros and Taquile floating islands. Some of the best weavers are found in this area so pick up some Peruvian textiles here for unique souvenirs.

Nazca Lines

The Nazca Lines are mysterious geoglyphs and geometric shapes drawn onto the desert floor hundreds of years ago by the Nazca culture. Little is known about them nevertheless, the Nazca Lines inspire awe in those who take a flight over them.

Lima is a mixture of modern city living and historical significance. Here you’ll find Central restaurant (ranked #6 by 50 Worlds Best), UNESCO World Heritage sites like Historic City Center with the San Francisco Convent, and the best shopping in Peru.

Where is Machu Picchu?

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How to Get From Lima to Machu Picchu

Find out the best way to get from Lima to Machu Pichu in 2023. Tours and treks to the citadel available for all budget!

Machu Picchu is Peru’s gem that every traveler wants to explore. If you are flying into Peru, the capital city Lima is the gateway to all the hidden gems around the country. Whether you want to travel to the north, south, or center, your starting point will always be Lima.

When planning your trip to this magical place, you may have doubts about the best way to get to Machu Picchu. Fortunately, getting to this Wonder of the World is quite easy if you have the right information, so we have provided a detailed explanation below on how to get from Lima to Machu Picchu. There are many options that cater to any budget and time availability. Choose the best one and start your adventure to Machu Picchu!

Page Contents:

• From Lima to Cusco
• From Cusco to Machu Picchu
• Tours by Train
• Treks to Machu Picchu

1. From Lima to Cusco

The first thing you need to know is that there are no direct flights, buses, or trains to Machu Picchu from Lima. Therefore, you have to first find a way to get to the city of Cusco, from where you can find many options to reach the lost city of the Incas. There are two main ways to travel to Machu Picchu from Lima; check them below and choose the best option for you.

a. Lima to Cusco by Bus

The bus option is the most preferred for travelers. However, there are two different ways to take a bus to Machu Picchu. The less recommended option is to take a public bus that goes directly from Lima to Cusco. We do not recommend this option because you won’t be able to acclimate your body to the altitude sickness on the route, which can be harmful to some people. Also, since the public route goes through the Andes, which can be a dangerous route, you would miss the opportunity to explore different cities around southern Peru such as Huacachina, Arequipa, or Puno, and to meet more travelers from around the world (public buses are mostly used by locals).

The best option to travel to from Lima to Machu Picchu by bus is with Peru Hop . Due to its ‘Hop-off, Hop-on’ service, it allows you to stop in cities along the route and discover magical gems like the Ballestas Islands, the Nazca Lines, Lake Titicaca, and more. And best of all, once you arrive in Cusco with Peru Hop, you will be better acclimatized, ready to begin your adventure to Machu Picchu.

Note: Peru Hop offers pickups directly from your hotel/hostel in Lima, avoiding the need to go to bus terminals far from your accommodation. It also has bilingual guides on board who will help you book tours and provide all the information you need during your trip.

b. Lima to Cusco by Plane

It is the fastest way to reach Cusco, but also one of the most expensive. If you don’t have much time in Peru, perhaps this is your best option. It is recommended for people who have visited most of the cities in southern Peru. Keep in mind that you will need a few more days to acclimate in Cusco before starting tours or treks, as many of them take place at much higher altitudes than the city (3339 meters above sea level). The most well-known companies offering flights to Cusco are LATAM Airlines and SKY Airlines .

2. From Cusco to Machu Picchu

Once you arrive in Cusco, you must head to Aguas Calientes . This town is the gateway to Machu Picchu, and everyone who wants to visit the Wonder of the World must pass through this place, also known as ‘Machu Picchu pueblo.’ In order to get to this place, we recommend taking a tour or trek from Cusco city. Depending on the time you have, your travel preferences, and the places you want to visit, you can choose from these following options.

a. Tours to Machu Picchu by Train

One of the most comfortable ways to reach Machu Picchu is by taking a train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and enjoy a panoramic view of the entire landscape. If you book a Machu Picchu tour with Yapa Explorers, you can have the 2-hour bus transport to Ollantaytambo, the train ticket with spectacular views, and your entrance ticket to Machu Picchu. Yapa Explorers gives you the opportunity to go to Machu Picchu in one day, two days, or the option to also visit the Inca’s Sacred Valley , where you can discover many archaeological complexes such as Pisac, Urubamba and Ollantaytambo.

3 different tours to Machu Picchu by Train:

• Machu Picchu by Train – Full Day
• Machu Picchu by Train – 2 Days
• Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley – 2 Days

b. Treks to Machu Picchu

For hiking and adventure lovers, the best way to reach Machu Picchu is by doing a fantastic trek along the beautiful route to appreciate all kinds of landscapes, mountains, and glaciers. The most famous route is the Inca Trail , where you can walk along the Inca’s ancient route, full of history, along with forests and Inca ruins. If you want a more challenging but equally impressive adventure, the Salkantay route is the best for you. On this route, you can see everything, from green landscapes to snow-capped mountain peaks, turquoise lagoons, and experience one of the most amazing treks in the world. If you want a bit more fun and adrenaline, the Inga Jungle Trek is for you. You can combine cycling, zip-lining, and rafting in a single adventure! It will undoubtedly be your Machu Picchu trip with more adrenaline than any other.

6 different ways to trek to Machu Picchu:

• Classic Inca Trail – 4 Days
• Inca Trail – 2 Days
• Salkantay Trek – 5 Days
• Salkantay Trek – 4 Days
• Inca Jungle Trek – 4 Days
• Inca Jungle Trek – 3 Days

Now that you know the best ways to get to Machu Picchu from Lima, choose the one that suits you best and start planning your unforgettable trip. Remember that you can contact us if you need more help planning your journey, additional information about tours and treks , or even tips for your travels. Our expert team will be happy to provide you with as much information as possible.

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How to Get from Lima to Machu Picchu (All 2024 Routes)

It isn’t possible to travel directly from Lima to Machu Picchu. This means the journey requires 3 different sections with a range of transport options available for each.

As such, it’s important to pick routes that best match your travel style and preferences. Because here, you’re going to be sacrificing comfort for price.

So whether you’re looking to travel from Lima to Cusco and onto Machu Picchu the quickest or cheapest way possible. Or looking to build your itinerary in the south of Peru, this guide has you covered.

Here, you’ll find a detailed explanation of how to get to Machu Picchu from Lima. There’s information on flying, buses, hiking, taking the train and treks. Plus, where to stop along the way to have the best experience of Peru…

Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click through and make a qualifying purchase.

How to get from Lima to Machu Picchu: Overview

Unfortunately, there is no way to get directly to the Machu Picchu Inca site from Lima . Unfortunate but unsurprising given the mountain-top site is completely cut off, with no roads in or out.

Instead, you’ll need to make use of planes, trains, buses and/or hiking trails to get from Lima Peru to Machu Picchu. And, you’ll have to travel via Cusco , the popular Andean city that is the gateway to Machu Picchu.

In short, the journey from Lima can be broken down into 3 sections .

• Travel from Lima to Cusco
• Get from Cusco to Aguas Calientes (the town at the base of Machu Picchu)
• Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu

Here’s a top-line summary of your options for each:

Quick-Fire Questions on How to get to Machu Picchu from Lima

The answers to a few key questions before we get into the details of how to get to Machu Picchu…

Can you do Machu Picchu in a day from Lima?

While it is technically possible, visiting Machu Picchu in one day from Lima is not a good idea.

Firstly, it’s a LONG day and honestly, Machu Picchu shouldn’t be rushed . But also because visiting in one day from Lima relies on making multiple transport connections with no delays to get there and back.

If just one of those connections doesn’t happen you could miss Machu Picchu or end up stuck in Aguas Calientes or Cusco .

And delays aren’t exactly a rare occurrence in this part of the world. With protests around the Inca site happening more often and windy conditions in Cusco delaying flights frequently.

What’s more, Machu Picchu’s new rules come into effect on 1 June. Amongst other things, entry times are getting stricter, you’ll only be allowed to enter up to 30-45 minutes after your ticket time. And you don’t want to miss out, do you?

Is there a Train from Lima to Machu Picchu?

No. It isn’t possible to just travel from Lima to Machu Picchu by train .

The Machu Picchu train that you might have heard of runs from Cusco to Aguas Calientes – the town below the ruins. From there, you’ll need to walk or take the bus to the entrance of the ruins.

How do I get from Lima to Machu Picchu by Plane?

You can’t fly to Machu Picchu or any towns close to it.

• Fly from Lima’s Jorge Chávez International Airport to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco
• There’s around 30 daily services
• You’ll then need to continue overland to Machu Picchu

With so many services and airlines, use Skyscanner to find the best prices and times for your flight from Lima to Cusco . Saving you time to enjoy your trip and keep travel planning efficient.

How Far is Machu Picchu from Lima by Plane?

Flying between Lima and Cusco takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes . The straight-line ground distance is 586 km (364 miles).

From Cusco, it’s another 77 km (48 miles) in a straight line to Machu Picchu. Although, overland routes will be longer as they navigate around the mountains.

How Long Does it Take to Get to Machu Picchu from Lima?

The quickest possible time is around 7 hours . This includes a flight from Lima to Cusco Peru, taxi, train and bus in quick succession.

However, it can take as long as you have.

If you travel overland by bus between Lima and Cusco you can stop at towns and cities along the way . Go sandboarding in Huacachina, see the Poor Man’s Galapagos in Paracas or visit the turquoise pools near Ayacucho.

Then, from Cusco to Machu Picchu , you can take the train, taking 4 hours. Alternatively, a 7-hour bus and 2-hour hike. Or embark on a 5-day trek.

How Much Does it Cost to Get from Lima to Machu Picchu?

Just for transport, you can get to Machu Picchu from Lima for around 50 USD . For example 30 USD for the bus to Cusco, 15 USD for the bus to Hidroelectrica and no charges for hiking to Aguas Calientes or the site entrance.

The cost will, of course, vary depending on what mode of transport you use and how much in advance you book it.

The lowest prices are typically the first seats sold on planes, trains and buses . Last-minute deals aren’t really a thing in Peru.

• Flight to Cusco : Around 50 USD (booked in advance, personal item only), add 20 USD for carry-on and 30 USD for checked luggage . Check prices on Skyscanner.
• Bus to Cusco : From 115 Soles (30 USD) for a direct service. Around 200 soles if hopping from town to town on the way. Check prices for all operators on Busbud.
• Train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes : Tickets start from around 60 USD , one way.
• Bus from Cusco to Hidroelectrica : 60 soles (15 USD) each way.
• Whether you take the train or bus to Aguas Calientes, you’ll then need to take the bus to Machu Picchu , which costs 12 USD per person each way. Or you can walk, for free.

Multi-Day Treks

• Inca Trail: 600+ USD . Trek finishes in Machu Picchu on the last day.
• Inca Jungle Trek: 200+ USD.
• Salkantay Trek: 200+ USD .

The Inca Trail needs to be booked further in advance due to its popularity and the need for permits. Whereas the others can be booked when you get to Cusco as long as you’re willing to be slightly flexible on dates.

Unless you do the Inca Trail, you’ll arrive in Aguas Calientes for the penultimate night. As such, you’ll need to get the bus or walk to Machu Picchu.

So, how do you get to Machu Picchu from Lima? Let’s break down the stages…

Step 1: Lima to Cusco Peru

There are only two ways to get to Cusco from Lima: by plane or by bus. And understandably, one is much quicker than the other!

But, travelling by bus means you stop at destinations along the way to really see and experience more of Peru.

Time: 1.5 hours Cost: 40+ USD How to Buy Tickets: Through a comparison site or directly with the airline

Around 30 flights a day travel between Lima and Cusco, mostly with budget airlines. Flight time is around 1 hour and 20 minutes .

Cheap fares are generally easy to come by , even when booked just a few weeks out. Although, the cheapest fares only include a personal item. You’ll need to pay extra for a full-size carry-on bag or checked luggage.

July to September is the peak season for visiting Machu Picchu when Europeans and North Americans are enjoying their summer vacations. During this time, it’s best to book as much in advance as possible .

Cusco Airport is a 15-minute drive from Cusco Train Station and a 20-minute drive from the main plaza.

Check prices and availability for your travel dates…

> > > RELATED POST: Plan your trip with this complete guide to the best time to visit Machu Picchu .

Direct Buses

Time: 24 hours Cost: 115 soles (30 USD) How to Buy Tickets: Through Bus Bud, direct through Cruz del Sur or CIVA, at the bus station

For the quickest overland route, take the direct Lima to Cusco bus . It’s scheduled to take around 23 hours , but expect this to be at least 24 hours.

• Around 115 soles (30 USD) for the cheapest and least comfortable seats
• And it’s around 150 soles (40 USD) for seats that recline more

Despite the huge difference in journey time, the cost is similar between a 90-minute flight and a 24-hour bus . The plus of the bus is that you don’t need to pay extra for luggage, which is where cost savings can come in.

Cruz del Sur and CIVA are two of the most reputable companies operating the route. Bus Bud is a good comparison site to find out times, prices and availability.

TOP TIPS FOR BUSES IN PERU

→ Pick a seat downstairs for a few extra soles as the seats on the top deck generally have less leg room, narrower width and less recline

→ Food and drink are rarely served on board buses in Peru anymore – bring your own . Since the pandemic, meal services have been replaced with stops at roadside restaurants (or have low-quality, packaged food).

Travelling town-to-town by Bus

Time & Cost: Route dependent How to Buy Tickets: Through Bus Bud, direct through companies or at bus stations

If you’re not looking to fly and have more than a week to spend in Peru, travelling the south of the country by bus is a great option . The towns between Lima and Cusco are popular with tourists, backpackers and domestic travellers alike.

One option is to travel with Peru Hop. They’re a bus service for international tourists with on-board bilingual guides and flexible tickets, at a price premium for the convenience and added service level.

Another option is to book each leg separately with whatever bus operators run the route. Doing this means you’ll get the best price and the most flexibility to change your route as you fancy.

See more about the following Lima to Machu Picchu itinerary options in the sections below:

• Lima to Cusco direct
• Via Paracas and Huacachina, then Cusco
• Visiting Paracas, Huacachina and Arequipa before Cusco
• Paracas, Huacachina, Ayacucho and then Cusco
• Lima to Ayacucho to Cusco

Overland Itinerary 1: Lima to Cusco Peru

The direct option. 24 hours and you’re there. Great if you have little time, but more convenient to fly.

Overland Itinerary 2: Lima to Paracas and Huacachina to Cusco

• Take a direct bus from Lima to Paracas. Or Lima to Picsco and then a taxi
• Pick from a s huttle or public bus for the 90-minute journey from Paracas to Huacachina
• Next, take the 18-hour bus from Ica (the town next to Huacachina) to Cusco with either CIVA or Cruz del Sur. Booking in advance is necessary in the summer months.

On the coast south of Lima is Paracas – home to a fascinating mix of marine and bird life. Slightly inland is the desert oasis of Huacachina and the sprawling sand dunes.

Paracas and Huacachina can both be visited in one day. Or you can spend a night or two in each to really get a feel for the place.

Overland Itinerary 3: Lima to Paracas/Huacachina to Arequipa to Cusco

Similar to the journey above, this splits the journey between Huacachina and Cusco. Stopping at Arequipa you’ll experience its food scene and the impressive Colca Canyon.

• Deviating from the section above, take a 13-hour bus from Ica (next to Huacachina) to Arequipa – book your tickets in advance online to secure your seat.
• From Arequipa, it’s another 10 hours to Cusco . Tickets for this journey can be booked online through Busbud , an easy-to-use bus comparison site popular in Peru.

Overland Itinerary 4: Via Paracas/Huacachina and Ayacucho

• After taking the bus from Lima to Paracas and/or a shuttle or bus to Huacachina , head inland to Ayacucho – one of my favourite places in Peru!
• Take the once-daily, 9-hour bus from Ica to Ayacucho with Palomino Buses .
• Then you’ll need to buy a ticket for the 17-hour bus to Cusco in the Ayacucho bus station as tickets aren’t available online.

This route heads directly inland from Huacachina to the authentic town of Ayacucho. A place that few international visitors ever step foot in.

Located high in the Andes, Ayacucho is a bustling town off the tourist trail. Explore the local markets, take in the busy streets, take a day trip to the Turquoise Pools of Millpu and much more.

Overland Itinerary 5: Lima to Ayacucho to Cusco

If you don’t fancy Paracas and/or Huacachina and are after a shorter route, you can travel from Lima to Ayacucho and onto Cusco.

The bus from Lima to Ayacucho takes around 8.5 hours. Followed by a long, 17-hour bus through the mountains to Cusco.

Step 2: Cusco to Aguas Calientes

This part of the journey from Lima Peru to Machu Picchu has the most amount of options. And, with flights not getting you to the World Wonder any closer than Cusco, you’ll have to continue overland.

Take your pick between the train, buses and hiking. There’s something for every budget…

Time: 4 hours Cost: 60+ USD How to buy tickets: Official websites of PeruRail or Inca Rail

• Choose between PeruRail and Inca Rail for your Cusco to Aguas Calientes train
• Both offer similar prices, comfort, quality and journey times – so book based on what time and available price suits you

Importantly, most train services between Cusco and Aguas Calientes are bimodal outside of the peak season. This means two modes of transport, a bus and a train.

• From Cusco, you’ll take a bus to either Ollantaytambo (2 hours) or Poroy (30 minutes)
• Then it’s 1.5 hours on the train from Ollantaytambo or 3.5 hours on the train from Poroy
• Most bimodal services run via Ollantaytambo meaning less time on the train. I recommend picking a route via Poroy or direct if you’re travelling in the high season

Ticket prices start at around 60 USD one-way and are the same whether you travel direct or bimodal from Cusco to Machu Picchu. Additionally, you can pay more for the Vistadome (PeruRail) or 360-degree (Inca Rail) trains that have better views.

Book direct on the PeruRail or Inca Rail websites for the best price and check out any offers.

Bus + Hike (straight to Hidroelectrica)

Time: 9 to 10 hours Cost: 60 soles How to Buy Tickets: Through an agency in Cusco

A more backpacker and budget-friendly style of transport is to take the bus to the end of the closest road to Machu Picchu . This is located in Hidroelectrica around 10 km from Aguas Calientes.

• The bus takes 7 or 8 hours from Cusco
• You’ll leave at 6 am
• Tickets cost around 60 soles , book in Cusco
• Buses stop twice along the way for breakfast and lunch

When you arrive in Hidroelectrica, you’ll be dropped off next to a local restaurant where you can eat if you haven’t already.

From there, you hike the remaining distance along the train tracks until you arrive in Aguas Calientes . The 10-km route takes about 2 hours at a leisurely pace and is mostly flat. Directions are:

• Once off the bus, head away from the drop-off spot and follow the road to the checkpoint
• Give your details to the rangers and then follow the signs and walk along the train tracks
• Just before Aguas Calientes, the train tracks run into a tunnel and the footpath splits away
• From there, follow the road as it heads into the town where you can finally rest

Don’t worry, this is a safe, popular and well-signposted route. Very few trains run along this section of the route as it is past Aguas Calientes when you come from Cusco. Mostly, it is used for trains to turn around or bring supplies.

• Pack light to avoid carrying too much . It is much hotter (and more humid) here than in Cusco due to the lower altitude.
• Wear long trousers and sleeves and apply insect repellent. The hot, humid, jungle-like conditions mean there are mosquitos and bugs everywhere!

Visit Ollantaytambo and the Sacred Valley + bus + hike

Time: However long you spend in Ollantaytambo + 9 to 10 hours Cost: 70+ Soles How to Buy Tickets: Through an agency in Cusco and/or at the bus stop

A slight variation on the route above, this includes stopping and spending time in Ollantaytambo at the heart of the Sacred Valley.

• Either take a tour of the Sacred Valley Inca sites and get dropped off in Ollantaytambo . Or catch local transport from Cusco (10 soles from Calle Pavitos and Avenida Grau (Highway 3S))
• Book a bus to Hidroelectrica , it takes 5 to 6 hours
• Hike the 2-hour route to Aguas Calientes along the train tracks using the directions in the section above

Another option is to hike most of the way from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes .

• Head 15 km out of Ollantaytambo to the KM82 checkpoint at Ollantaytambo Station
• From there, it’s a 28-km walk to Aguas Calientes along the train tracks as they run parallel to the river
• It’s doable in one day if you start early but is tough. Definitely pack light for this hike!

One of the most popular ways to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco is on a multi-day trek .

The Inca Trail is the most famous of these and permits sell out all year around.

• Booking in advance is essential , especially if you want to travel in the peak season (July to September)
• The traditional Inca Trail route takes 4 or 5 days
• There’s also the option to take the short Inca Trail, which is a 2-day trek
• Both Inca Trail routes bring you into Machu Picchu through an Inca Trail-only entrance on your last day

For all other treks, you’ll arrive in Aguas Calientes for your final night before travelling to Machu Picchu in the morning by foot or bus. These include:

• The Salkantay Trek: a popular alternative to the Inca Trail that doesn’t require booking as much in advance (and is much cheaper)
• The Inca Jungle Trek: 2- to 4-day options. This includes loads of fun activities such as mountain biking, rafting and ziplining, to name just a few but doesn’t follow the full Inca Trail

Step 3: Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu

Once you reach Aguas Calientes, there are only 2 ways to get to Machu Picchu . You can take the bus or you can walk.

Bus from Aguas Calientes

You’ll need to buy your ticket from the office before joining the queue for the bus . Payment is taken in either USD or Peruvian soles with cash or card, you need your passport and entrance ticket too.

• Buses run from 5.30 am until 3.30 pm
• Tickets cost 12 USD each way, per person . Discounted rates are available for children
• The journey time is 30 minutes
• Boarding is in order of your entry time and you can’t get on a bus until 30 minutes before your entry time

READ MORE > > > All the information you need on getting from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu by bus or on foot.

Walking from Aguas Calientes

Alternatively, you can walk from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. The route is tough and mostly stairs , plus conditions are often warm and humid.

However, this option is free of charge . Perfect for those travelling on a budget!

• First, walk 20 to 30 minutes to the Machu Picchu checkpoint just outside of the town
• Next, you’ll start the 1.7 km uphill climb on the near-endless steps – taking 1 to 2 hours depending on fitness and walking speed
• You can only enter the trail 1 to 1.5 hours before your entry time

The view over the ruins and Huayna Picchu Mountain behind will be all the sweeter (and sweatier) for walking!

In Summary…

Still not decided which option for how to get to Machu Picchu from Lima is best for you? I’d recommend seeing what your budget is and going from there…

Looking for the cheapest option? Take a long but cheap 24-hour bus from Lima to Cusco . Then book a local bus to Hidroelectrica and hike to Machu Picchu!

Or the quickest and easiest option? Book a flight to Cusco and then the train to Aguas Calientes. You can book the bus up to the entrance of Machu Picchu on the day.

Something more leisurely? I’d recommend visiting Paracas and Huacachina on your trip from Lima to Cusco, both are incredible for different reasons. But they are popular, so book your buses in advance if travelling between June and August.

Do you have any questions or want any more information? If so, drop a comment below and I’ll get back to you!

Information is correct as of February 2024 but is subject to change in future.

More PERU Travel Inspiration…

CUSCO: Palcoyo Mountain (Peru’s Alternative Rainbow Mountain): Ultimate Guide

HUARAZ: Laguna Churup, Huaraz: Independent Day Hike to 4500 metres

HUARAZ: Laguna Paron: Ultimate Guide to Visiting from Caraz or Huaraz

CUSCO: Climbing Machu Picchu Mountain (Hike Guide)

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Machu Picchu by Train Short Break

3 days | travel to south america and explore peru's ancient machu picchu.

Discover South America’s ancient ruins, explore the best sights and wander through vibrant markets to get a real taste of Andean village life in the Sacred Valley. Take a winding train journey through the steep Urumbamba Valley to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Peru’s most famous site. The ancient ‘Lost City’ of Machu Picchu is truly extraordinary and has to be seen to be believed.

Trip overview

• Explore the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu
• Immerse yourself in the culture of Cusco
• Experience traditional Andean life in the Sacred Valley
• This Short Break Adventure is a ‘join in’ group departure, which means you are not accompanied by an Intrepid group leader. Instead, our local representative in each location will fill this role and the configuration of any fellow travellers in the group might change during the trip. This trip will run with a minimum of one person, so you may be joined by other travellers booked on the same date as you, or you may be on your own.
• On Day 2, up to 35 people may join you for the day’s activities. The Machu Picchu tour on Day 3 will be for Intrepid travellers only, with a maximum of 16 in the group.
• This trip visits places that are at high altitude, and as a result some people can suffer from altitude sickness, regardless of age or physical health. Please see the Medical and health information section of the Essential Trip Information for more detail.
• According to Machu Picchu visiting regulations, all visitors must follow a pre-determined route within the site. This route must be followed in one direction only, and once the guided visit commences exiting and re-entering the site is not permitted. Once the guided visit concludes, visitors must exit the site and personal exploration of Machu Picchu is not permitted. Please refer to the Itinerary for details.

View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2024 - 31 December 2024

Bienvenidos! Welcome to Cusco, the heart and soul of Peru.  There will be a welcome meeting in the hotel lobby at approximately 2pm. Be sure to take it slow while your body adjusts to the altitude (3,400 m). Following the meeting your Intrepid guide will take you on an orientation walk around Cusco.  You’ll visit the facade of Qoricancha temple, the local San Pedro market, the main square, past the 12 Angled Stone, Regocijo Square and San Blas Square. Finally you’ll visit the Chocolate museum where there will be an opportunity to sample a hot chocolate made from local cacao beans. This might be a good opportunity to purchase some gifts or souvenirs. There’s a small store where you’ll find various handicrafts and a variety of artisanal chocolate products. Tonight is free. Your guide will be able to recommend some good places to eat!

• Hotel (1 night)

There are no meals included on this day.

This trip visits places that are at high altitude, and as a result some people can suffer from altitude sickness, regardless of age or physical health. Please see the ‘Health’ section of the trip notes for more important information on this.

This morning starts with a pick-up from your hotel. Pick-up will take place will be between 07:00 and 07:20 in the hotel foyer. The Intrepid representative will confirm this with you at the briefing on day 1. In Cusco some of the streets are quite narrow and many have strict parking restrictions so it's likely you will need to take a short walk with a representative to where the bus is.

Head out to the Sacred Valley on a shared bus service. Known as Wilcamayo by the Incas, this lush and fertile valley has long been the main source of food for the high Andes. Maize crops can be seen surrounding the river and covering the terraces carved high into the valley walls.

The first stop is at Pisac ruins from where you will enjoy a lovely view of the Pisac valley and the town below. Explore the market and maybe barter for a few items yourself before heading out to cross the Valley. Leaving Pisac behind you find yourself driving through amazingly fertile lands that are one of the main agricultural areas in the surroundings and that played an important part during Inca times.

We have a stop along the way to enjoy our lunch at Urubamba town and then continue approximately 20-25 minutes until we reach the town of Ollantaytambo, one of the few, if not the only, living example of a city plan that has remained the same for many centuries.

Here you’ll visit the archaeological site of Ollantaytambo, and try to figure out how those terraces were build or the big boulders that are part of the temple of the Sun got to the place where you can find them now, the top of the mountain.

Your guide will point you in the direction of the train station where you will wait for the departure of your train that takes you to Aguas Calientes. (Please note that depending on the time of your train, if your departure time is later then you may have some time to explore the town) A 1.5 hour train ride through the winding Urubamba Valley takes us to Aguas Calientes, nestled in the cloud forest (2040m above sea level) at the foot of the magnificent Machu Picchu.

Upon arrival a representative will be waiting for you to take you to your hotel and give you the last instructions for your tour the very next day.

Overnight at Aguas Calientes hotel

• Cusco - Half Boleto Turistico Pass (access to selected archaeological sites, transport & guides not included)

After an early breakfast, catch a bus to Machu Picchu (approx 30 minutes along a winding road). The first bus departs at around 6.30am. Please note that you will need to check out and leave your luggage on storage at the hotel while you visit Machu Picchu.

A local guide will take you on a 2 hour tour through the ruins. While it is thought Machu Picchu was built around 1440 as a country retreat for Incan nobility, there is evidence this had been a sacred site for much longer. Another school of thought is that this was an astronomical observatory. There is plenty of time to decide for yourself as you wander around the many temples, palaces and living quarters.

After taking advantage of the seemingly endless photo opportunities it is time to return to Cusco, travelling first by train to Ollantaytambo (approx 90 minutes) then a shared transfer to Cusco (approx 90 minutes).

Upon your arrival to Cusco your tour comes to an end. Please contact us if you need assistance with extra accommodation in Cusco.

Departure flight on final day:

If you need assistance with this, please speak with your travel agent. After your travels, we want to hear from you! We rely on your feedback. We read it carefully. Feedback helps us understand what we are doing well and what we could be doing better. It allows us to make improvements for future travellers. Leave your feedback here - http://www.intrepidtravel.com/feedback

Visiting Machu Picchu: According to Machu Picchu visiting regulations, all visitors must follow a pre-determined route within the site. This route must be followed in one direction only and once the guided visit commences exiting and re-entering the site is not permitted. Once the guided visit concludes, visitors must exit the site and personal exploration of Machu Picchu is not permitted.

• Machu Picchu - Entrance and guided tour

Due to Intrepid's internal safety policy, our leaders are specifically prohibited from recommending or assisting with booking trips to the mountaintop ruins of Wayna Picchu.

Sunrise at Machu Picchu: The first bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu departs at 5.30am. The estimated arrival time is between 6- 6.30am The sun rises at Machu Picchu at approximately 5.30am, therefore it's not possible to be there in time for sunrise.

On the final day you won't arrive back to Cusco until approximately 1830 (630pm) Please do not book a departing flight prior to 2200 (10pm) We recommend booking an additional night in Cusco tonight.

2 breakfasts, 1 lunch

Bus, Taxi, Train

Hotel (2 nights)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. Full passport details are required at the time of booking. The passport you travel with must match the booking details provided to us. This will be used to apply for your Inca permit and if any info doesn’t match your passport, the Inca authorities will refuse your entry. Delays in providing this information may result in booking fees or changes to your itinerary. 2. This trip starts in Cusco on Day 1 at 2 pm. This trip finishes upon arrival in Cusco on Day 3. Please do not book any flights until after 10 pm this evening.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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8-Day Inca Sunrise Tour from Lima to Cusco: Larco Museum, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes

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IS THIS TOUR FOR ME?

Tour themes: cultural & historical.

Learn about history and local culture with in-depth tours and activities

Tour Type: Guided Tour

Multiple local tour guides/drivers available throughout your tour/activity

Group Size: Standard Group Tour

Tour with fellow travelers from all over the world

Activity Level: Easy

Perfect for any fitness level

Quality: Budget Friendly

Experience the most affordable tour service and accommodation with fast-paced itineraries. Enjoy budget hotels, certified guides, and included transportation. Please note that a mandatory service fee and additional costs for optional activities may apply.

Home - Lima

Hotel: Lima Hotel (optional types: Comfort, Standard, Superior, First Class, Luxury) or similar

Meal: B：Excluded L：Excluded D：Excluded

A transportation service will pick you up from the airport at the scheduled time to transfer you to your hotel in Lima. The Peruvian capital is a modern metropolis full of history, currently undergoing an exciting process of cultural and economic changes. Optional activity : Magical Water Circuit.

Lima - Larco Museum & City Tour

Meal: B：Included L：Excluded D：Excluded

Visiting Attractions

Lima - cusco: city tour and nearby archaeological sites.

Hotel: Cusco Hotel (optional types: Comfort, Standard, Superior, First Class, Luxury) or similar

Cusco - Moray & Maras - Cusco

Cusco - Sacred Valley: Chinchero - Living Museum of Yucay - Ollantaytambo

Hotel: Sacred Valley Hotel (optional types: Comfort, Standard, Superior, First Class, Luxury) or similar

Meal: B：Included L：Included D：Excluded

Sacred Valley - Machu Picchu

Hotel: Aguas Calientes Hotel (optional types: Comfort, Standard, Superior, First Class, Luxury) or similar

Aguas calientes - Machu Picchu - Cusco

Cusco - Home

After breakfast at the hotel, a transportation service will take you to Cusco's airport for your departure from the city.

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• Machu Picchu

How to Get From Lima to Cusco

Welcome to the enchanting journey from Lima to Cusco! Whether you’re an adventurer, a culture seeker, or just craving a change of scenery, this guide will help you navigate the various options for traveling between these two vibrant cities. From buses to planes, and even a glimpse at organized tours, we’ve got you covered with all the essential details to make your journey as smooth as Machu Picchu’s stone-carved paths.

Nestled in the heart of the Andes, Cusco stands as a living testament to Peru’s rich history and diverse culture. As you leave the bustling streets of Lima behind, a world of ancient ruins, stunning landscapes, and warm Peruvian hospitality awaits.

Getting from Lima to Cusco

Please note that these travel times are approximate and can vary based on factors like weather, road conditions, or specific flight/train schedules. It’s important to check with the respective transportation providers for the most up-to-date information and accurate travel times.

Getting by Bus

Via nazca – arequipa – cusco.

For the adventurous souls who appreciate scenic routes, this option treats you to breathtaking views of the Nazca Lines and the majestic landscapes of Arequipa. The journey is around 24 hours, offering a chance to witness Peru’s changing terrain from desert to mountains.

Via Nazca – Abancay – Cusco

This route takes you through the ancient Inca trail to Cusco. The journey, though longer, around 30 hours, is a true visual delight, showcasing the Andean charm and natural wonders.

Via Huancayo – Abancay – Cusco

Experience the highlands of Peru on this road less traveled. The route combines the tranquility of Huancayo with the grandeur of Cusco. Although approximately 32 hours, this journey rewards with unique sights.

Pros and Cons traveling by bus

While bus travel offers a chance to soak in Peru’s diverse landscapes, it can be time-consuming and tiring. However, it’s an excellent option for budget travelers and those seeking an authentic experience.

Getting by Plane

Flight schedules.

If time is of the essence, flying is the way to go. Flights from Lima to Cusco are frequent, allowing you to reach your destination in around 1.5 hours.

Prices and Airline Companies

Multiple airlines operate this route, such as LATAM, Avianca, and Sky Airlines. Prices vary based on factors like booking time and class, generally ranging from $100 to $300 USD.

• LATAM Airlines: LATAM is one of the major airlines in South America and offers frequent flights between Lima and Cusco. They provide various fare options, including economy and business class. Visit the LATAM Airlines website for information on schedules and prices.
• Avianca: Avianca is another prominent airline that operates flights between Lima and Cusco. They offer different fare classes to suit various budgets. You can find details on schedules and prices on the Avianca website .
• Sky Airline: Sky Airline is a low-cost carrier that provides nonstop flights between Lima and Cusco. They might offer competitive prices for budget-conscious travelers. Visit the Sky Airline website for more information.
• Jetsmart: Jetsmart is a low-cost airline that often provides affordable options for travelers. They might have budget-friendly fares for flights between Lima and Cusco. Check the Jetsmart website for more information.

Flight Connection from Lima

Lots of people who come from other countries want to go from Lima to Machu Picchu right away. But it’s not possible to go directly because there’s no direct way between these places. So, people have to take another flight from Lima to Cusco. This is usually what happens when people have a busy plan and just a few days in the country.

When this happens, remember that you have to go through a special check before your next flight. Also, it’s a good idea to get your tickets for Machu Picchu and the train early. You can do this through a travel office, online, or on the airline’s website.

Emigration Control

Remember to carry your passport and fill out the necessary immigration forms before landing in Cusco. The altitude might take your breath away, but don’t let it take away your documents!

Lima’s Jorge Chavez International Airport is like a busy meeting place for planes from faraway lands like North America, Europe, and Asia. Many of these planes stop here before going to other places. That’s why the part of the airport where they check who’s coming in (migration zone) is very careful and strict.

If you want to go from Lima to Cusco smoothly, remember two important things:

• Custom Declaration: This is a special paper where you tell how much money your things are worth, like what’s in your bags and backpack. If the airport checker looks and finds things you didn’t mention, and these things are worth more than $1,000 in money, you might need to pay a fee to enter Peru.
• Andean Card (Tarjeta Andina) TAM: This card is like a special note where you give more information about your trip. You write things like where you’re going, why you’re traveling, and where you’ll stay. The airport person keeps part of the card, and you keep the other part. It’s really important not to lose your part of the card because you’ll need it when you leave Peru.

Tips for getting by plane

If you’re planning to fly to Cusco, there are some helpful tips we’d like to share. These tips can also be useful if you’re traveling to other places in Peru. Check out these suggestions to make your plane journey more enjoyable:

• Early Booking for Savings: If you want a flight that’s budget-friendly, consider booking your tickets about 6 months ahead of time. This way, you can usually find flights with prices lower than the usual. Keep in mind that flights might cost more if you travel during the busy season (June, July, and August). On the other hand, May tends to be the least expensive month for flying.
• Timing Matters: Flights during the early morning and late night are often cheaper compared to those that leave during the day. If you’re looking to save money, try to choose flight times that fall within these periods.
• Consider Low-Cost Airlines: If you’re looking for ways to save money, consider flying with airlines like Jet Smart Peru or Sky Airline. These airlines are known as low-cost carriers and they provide nonstop flights from Lima to Cusco airport.

By keeping these tips in mind, your plane journey, whether to Cusco or any other place in Peru, can be more cost-effective and enjoyable.

Getting by Private Car

Traveling from Lima to Cusco by private car is a unique way to explore Peru’s landscapes. There are a couple of routes you can take, each offering different experiences. Here’s a simple explanation of these routes:

Route 1: The Central Route

This route takes you through the center of Peru, passing through the highlands and valleys. It’s a longer journey but offers picturesque views and a chance to see some smaller towns along the way.

• Lima to Huancayo: You’ll start in Lima and head east through the Central Andes. The road takes you through valleys and along the Mantaro River. Huancayo is a city you’ll pass through, and it’s known for its Andean culture.
• Huancayo to Ayacucho: From Huancayo, you’ll continue south through the mountains, eventually reaching Ayacucho. This city has a rich history and is famous for its colonial architecture.
• Ayacucho to Cusco: Finally, you’ll head southeast from Ayacucho to reach Cusco. This part of the journey takes you through more mountainous terrain, and you’ll get closer to the Andes.

Route 2: The Coastal Route

This route takes you along the coast of Peru, offering a different set of sights. It’s generally faster than the central route but might have fewer mountain views.

• Lima to Ica: Starting from Lima, you’ll head south along the coast to Ica. This region is known for its sand dunes and wineries.
• Ica to Nazca: From Ica, you can continue south to Nazca, famous for its Nazca Lines—large ancient geoglyphs in the desert.
• Nazca to Abancay: Traveling southeast, you’ll reach Abancay. This part of the journey starts to lead you into the mountains.
• Abancay to Cusco: Finally, you’ll head east from Abancay to reach Cusco. This leg of the journey takes you through some winding mountain roads.

Keep in mind that these routes can have varying road conditions, and it’s important to plan for stops, fuel, and accommodations along the way. Also, remember to have your vehicle properly maintained and equipped for the journey. It’s a great way to see more of Peru’s diverse landscapes, but it’s essential to be well-prepared.

Getting by Train

Unfortunately, there are no train routes between Lima and Cusco. But fear not, as other exciting options await!

Traveling with Organized Tours

For a hassle-free experience, consider joining an organized tour. These tours often combine transportation, accommodation, and guided excursions, providing a curated adventure without the stress of planning.

Contact us if you need plan your trip.

What is the Best Way to Get from Lima to Cusco?

The best way to get from Lima to Cusco is typically by plane. Taking a flight is the fastest and most convenient option. It helps you save a lot of time compared to traveling by bus or train. The flight takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, while other options can take much longer.

Flying also gives you the chance to rest and enjoy the stunning aerial views as you travel between these two cities. Since Cusco is a popular tourist destination, there are frequent flights available, making it easy to find one that fits your schedule.

While other modes of transportation like buses or trains can offer unique experiences and sights, the plane is the top choice for travelers who want to reach Cusco quickly and efficiently. It’s a practical option, especially if you have limited time to explore and want to make the most of your stay in Cusco.

The distance between Lima and Cusco is approximately 1,100 kilometers (about 680 miles) by air.

Yes, there are night flights available from Lima to Cusco. Flying during the night can sometimes offer cost savings, but it’s essential to check the flight schedules.

Yes, you can drive from Lima to Cusco, but it’s a long journey that takes about 20 to 24 hours by car. It’s important to be well-prepared, have a reliable vehicle, and understand the route and road conditions.

Yes, there are long-distance buses that operate between Lima and Cusco. These buses usually take a considerable amount of time, often around 20 to 24 hours.

Traveling by bus in Peru is generally safe, but it’s important to choose reputable bus companies and check the condition of the vehicles. Also, consider taking daytime buses for better visibility and safety.

The best time to travel depends on your preferences. May is often considered the cheapest month to fly, while flights during the high season (September, October, and November) might be more expensive.

Yes, if you’re coming from abroad and connecting flights in Lima, you’ll need to go through customs and immigration before catching your connecting flight to Cusco.

Lima is at a lower altitude near sea level, while Cusco is at a much higher altitude of about 3,400 meters (11,200 feet). Be prepared for altitude-related adjustments when traveling to Cusco.

Yes, it’s highly recommended to book your Machu Picchu entry tickets and train reservations in advance. This helps secure your spot and ensures a smoother visit to the iconic site.

No, there is no direct train connection between Lima and Cusco. The train journey between these two cities is not possible.

Embarking on the journey from Lima to Cusco is an adventure in itself. Whether you opt for a scenic bus ride, a quick flight, or a leisurely drive, each option has its unique charm. Consider your priorities, whether it’s time, budget, or experience, and choose the mode of travel that suits you best. As you journey from Peru’s coastal capital to its Andean gem, get ready to uncover the wonders that lie in between. Safe travels!

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The Only Peru Packing List You’ll Ever Need

Heading to cusco, lima, the amazon, machu picchu, and the sacred valley this list has everything you need to pack—and more..

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The historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu has an elevation of 7,970 feet, so packing layers is essential.

Photo by Denisse Leon/Unsplash

At 496,225 square miles, Peru is the third-largest country in South America and the 19th-largest in the world—almost twice the size of Texas. It is a country of extraordinary diversity, from the Amazon rainforest to the ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu. And then there’s the dining and nightlife.

But all of that can pose a problem when you’re packing. What do you absolutely need to be prepared without being overprepared? To answer, here’s Afar’s essential Peru packing list, complete with packing tips.

Luggage and organizational accessories

Most tour companies don’t restrict the amount of luggage you can bring, but if you are doing any multiday hikes or trips outside of cities, a larger backpack or duffel is your best bet. Same goes for the Amazon: You’ll likely be traveling by small rickshaw to narrow, low-lying riverboats, and soft-sided waterproof bags are best (both for ease of carrying and for protection from the elements).

There is no shortage of worthy travel backpacks out there. But the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is my go-to travel bag—a carry-on, duffel, and backpack all in one—and it weighs a mere three pounds. This summer, the brand debuted a slightly larger version (38L) with wheels , which is an excellent option for those wanting to avoid carrying a bag on their back. A packable day pack or tote, like the Baggu Cloud Bag , is also good to bring.

When packing, I also used packing cubes to help divide my trip into the parts I knew I’d need certain clothes for: fancier in Lima and Cusco, and outdoor gear for Machu Picchu and the Amazon.

The Cotopaxi Allpa comes with a dedicated pocket for easy laptop removal in security lines.

Courtesy of Cotopaxi

Essential travel documents

Peru requires preregistration for tours of Machu Picchu, so booking before you travel is essential. (Once tickets are purchased the Ministry of Culture site , these dates and times cannot be changed, though you can buy as many entrance tickets as you want.) Bring printed copies of your tickets along with your passport; access to the site will not be granted without them.

A complete list of what to bring of what to bring on any trip to Peru:

• Confirmation information for any flights, trains, or tours you take—these are often electronic documents, so make sure they are accessible on your mobile device or any relevant apps. If you are traveling somewhere with limited electricity and signal, like the Amazon, download and screenshot important documents on your devices, and be sure to have printed copies.
• Emergency documents, such as your health insurance card, travel insurance information, and emergency contact
• Wallet with credit cards and cash. The sol is the currency of Peru, and bills are produced in 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 soles. Many market vendors only accept cash, as do people selling wares on the side of the street, so it’s best to carry Peruvian soles with you. (And to have smaller bills, like 10s and 20s, which are easiest for smaller businesses to handle.) For the best rates, exchange dollars into soles on the ground in Peru. Head to a bank in Lima or Cusco and look for cambistas , or money changers, standing near the entrance by security guards. These men are wearing bright vests and will give you an exchange rate better than what you’ll get at a bank—just make sure the bills are not torn or marked.

Casual and active clothing to pack

Layers are your best friend in Peru, where temperatures and weather conditions fluctuate.

• 3–4 shirts and T-shirts for everyday wear, like the Lorel Tee from Jungmaven , which arrives feeling soft and worn in
• 1–2 tops or shirts for casual evenings
• 2–3 pairs of pants or shorts for everyday wear
• 1–2 pairs of pants for hiking, like the lightweight but durable Snow Peak FR Stretch Pants , which are water-repellent and have several hidden pockets and adjustable elastic at the ankles
• 2–3 shirts for hiking. We’re fans of Outerknown’s long-sleeved sun shirts , made from recycled polyester and with UPF 50+ sun protection.
• 1–2 sweaters—it can get chilly when the sun sets, so bring a sweater or two. Patagonia’s Better Sweater Fleece Vest is wonderful for layering.
• Pajamas and loungewear
• Underwear and socks (for both hiking and everyday)
• A light hiking jacket or vest, like Helly Hansen’s breathable Fastpack Jacket
• A light rain jacket . Weather can change on a dime; be prepared.

Jungmaven tees arrive feeling blissfully broken in.

Courtesy of Jungmaven

Dressier options to pack

Peru has some of the finest fine-dining restaurants in the world, including Kjolle, Maido, and Central; though there is no official dress code, most diners skip the shorts and wear smart-casual outfits. When packing, I chose outfits that could be dressed up or down, and could work as well for formal evenings as for a daytime café.

• 1–2 dresses or skirts
• 2–3 blouses
• 1–2 pairs of slacks
• 1 nice jacket or blazer

Eileen Fisher Crushed Silk Jewel Neck Tiered Dress Just as items in the overhead bin tend to shift during flight, clothes tend to become wrinkled after they enter a bag. The good news about this dress is that thanks to its crushed-silk material, wrinkles aren’t apparent—instead, they seem a part of the design. I got this dress in the Aegean color, fitting the bill for my friend’s wedding instructions to wear something colorful, but also giving me a dress I could wear for dinner service on the Belmond Andean Explorer , which I took from Cusco to Puno, a city on Lake Titicaca.

Silk Laundry Audrey Top and Bias Cut Pants A not-so-secret secret to packing? Items that will do double duty for you—and this set is a perfect example of that. Made of silk with a mud pattern (an homage to a UNESCO-recognized dyeing technique from the Hakka people of Southeast China), it was equally at home paired with some walking shoes and a baseball hat as it was out to an early dinner at Mauka , Pía León’s second (and newest) restaurant in Cusco. Hang it in the shower, and the wrinkles disappear.

Jungmaven Hermosa Dress On its own, this lightweight travel dress—made of hemp-jersey blend, and with a generous side slit for comfortable movement—is perfect for lounging around a lodge, bumming on the beach, or even wearing to bed. But paired with a clog and a summery jacket, it goes from simple to sophisticated.

Historic cities like Cusco have worn cobblestones, so it’s best to pack shoes with a strong grip that can be dressed up or down, like the Salomon XT-6 . Though lodges in the Amazon will supply boots for the mud and rain, having a pair of lightweight hiking boots is essential for trips in the Sacred Valley. And, as good for pairing with a dress as they are for sliding on and wearing around a lodge, travel clogs—which I’ve already waxed poetic about for Afar—are a versatile option. For my trip I brought the slim Calzuro classic clog, with a 1.5-inch heel and strong grip.

• Walking or tennis shoes
• Lightweight hiking boots (for women and men )
• Travel clogs

Calzuro clogs are available in more than a dozen colors, including the royal blue seen here.

Courtesy of Calzuro

Accessories

• A sun-protecting cap or hat. I love the AFO Hyperlight Cap from Janji , which is practically weightless and ready for the road—you can fold it, scrunch it, or toss it in your bag and it will come out as good as new.
• Polarized sunglasses, like the Maho Positano shades, to reduce glare from intense sun
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Skin care products and other lotions
• Eye drops and contact solution, plus contact solution case (if needed)
• Shaving items
• Feminine care products (if needed)
• Sunscreen. Opt for reef-safe sunscreen like Thinksport or Australian Gold Botanical sunscreen—Hawai‘i and an increasing number of other destinations are banning sunscreen with toxic chemicals, including oxybenzone and avobenzone. Vertra, known for its mineral face sticks , is popular with swimmers, including 12-time Olympic medalist Natalie Coughlin.

A basic first-aid kit

While you will be able to purchase first-aid supplies around Peru, chances are they’ll be more expensive than whatever you’d get at home. Even if you don’t think you’ll have a problem with motion sickness, consider tossing a pack of ginger chews into your bag just in case—they help with nausea. (Read more about how to beat motion sickness here .)

Altitude sickness is common in Peru, where altitudes average 5,100 feet (similar to Denver); popular areas like Machu Picchu (7,970), Cusco (11,155), and Lake Titicaca (12,500) are even higher. Before your trip, talk to your doctor about Diamox. Nonmedical treatments on the ground in Peru—like chewing coca leaves or drinking coca tea—are ubiquitous but bringing coca leaves back to the United States is against the law.

• Painkillers
• Any medications or sleep aids you take
• Allergy medications
• Anti-nausea medications, like over-the-counter Dramamine , or prescription medications, like the Transderm-Scop patch
• Antidiarrheals
• Antibiotic ointment
• Hand sanitizer
• Cleansing cloths. These are helpful for when there’s little to no running water and you still want to wipe off some of the sweat—and bug spray—from the day before crawling into bed.

You may also want

• Mosquito repellent. Kinfield’s Golden Hour mosquito repellent is DEET-free and works. As a bonus, its mix of citronella, lemongrass, and clove actually smells good.
• After-sun leave-in hair conditioner, like Sun Bum’s Revitalizing 3-in-1 Leave-In Treatment , which detangles, conditions, and protects hair from sun and salt water

Travel gear and electronics

With more and more destinations banning single-use plastics, it’s an increasingly good idea to BYO water bottle on any trip. We recommend bringing a water bottle for regular use and hikes—it’s especially important to stay hydrated, both in tropical places where you’ll sweat a lot and at high altitude. Water in Peru is not potable, and there will generally be signs reminding you of this, but hotels will have disposable water bottles and you can fill up that way, rather than lugging the plastic and wondering where to dispose of it.

• Reusable water bottle
• Travel coffee mug. The Fellow Carter Move mug is excellent. With a snap-in splash guard, it keeps drinks warm for 12 hours or cold for 24 hours. Toss it in your bag and go.
• Laptop or e-reader
• Universal travel adapter

Note: Given the remoteness of some locations in Peru, it’s best to download books and movies ahead of time.

• Beach blanket
• Binoculars. The Bushnell Legend 10x42mm Binoculars are a good entry-level set.
• Headlamp. Practically essential for nighttime in the Amazon, when many lodges only have electricity for several hours and when headlamps or flashlights are required for navigation. The lightweight BioLite HeadLamp 800 Pro has eight different modes—including dimmable white spot, dimmable white flood, red night vision, and strobe—and will last about 7 hours on max power or up to 150 hours on low brightness.

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What’s the best way to travel from Lima to Machu Picchu

You’ve landed in Jorge Chávez airport in Lima and you’re raring to visit the revered Inca citadel, Machu Picchu. But first, you’ve got to get there. Realistically, it’s not possible to get to Machu Picchu from Lima with just one form of transport. Instead, you first need to get from Lima to Cusco, the latter being a historic Peruvian city that acts as the gateway to Machu Picchu.

Depending on your budget and how much time you have to travel, there are various different ways to get to Cusco and then from there to Machu Picchu. Let us talk you through the options and price points

Distance from Lima to Machu Picchu: 503 km (312 mi) as the crow flies

Distance from Lima to Cusco: Cusco is 1,143 km (710 mi) overland from Lima or a 1.5-hour flight.

Distance from Cusco to Machu Picchu: 75 km (47 mi) as the crow flies, however the different forms of transport to Machu Picchu cover vastly different distances.

How to get to Machu Picchu from Lima: There are various ways. You can take a combination of plane, bus, train or hiking.

Travel time from Lima to Machu Picchu: It depends. To first reach Cusco, it can take anything from 1.5 hours to 27 hours. From Cusco to Machu Picchu, it can take from four hours by train to four days on foot.

The best way to travel from Lima to Machu Picchu: The fastest and most expensive way to get to Machu Picchu is flying and taking the train; the cheapest is by bus; the most interesting is flying and on foot.

Are there any Machu Picchu tours from Lima?

It’s easy enough to organize a tour from Lima to Machu Picchu, where your domestic flights, accommodation and guides will all be arranged – meaning you just need to arrive in Lima! We have a range of multi-day tours that combine Machu Picchu with other ancient sites around Peru , while all of our Machu Picchu tour packages are fully customizable. 

Unfortunately, it’s not possible to take a day trip to Machu Picchu from Lima – in fact, you can barely take a day trip from Cusco to the site and we strongly recommend you consider at least a two-day tour to have enough time to appreciate the site and the surrounding scenery. Luckily, the Cusco region has plenty of beautiful sights and trekking routes to enjoy, including the Instagram-famous Rainbow Mountain , meaning it’s well worth staying in the region for at least a couple of days after your trip to Machu Picchu.

What if you only have three days to visit Machu Picchu?

For many travelers, a three-day Machu Picchu tour from Cusco is perfectly suited for their itinerary. A fast-track Inca Trail tours can be arranged for two or three days, while it’s possible to combine a trip to the Sacred Valley with a day trip to Machu Picchu in our luxury Machu Picchu tour or a homestay with an indigenous family in the Sacred Valley .

Bear in mind that you will need to add on a day at least a day at the beginning and end for transportation to and from Lima to Cusco. On a short timescale, flying – rather than taking the slower public bus – is highly recommended, but you will also want an extra day or two in Cusco to give you time to acclimate to the altitude.  

How to get from Lima to Machu Picchu

Step One: Getting from Lima to Cusco

The biggest distance you’re covering on your route to Machu Picchu is between Lima and Cusco. Cusco is 1,143 km (710 mi) overland from Lima or a 1.5-hour flight. Here we run you through the different methods of transportation between the two cities and what you can expect to pay.

Flying from Lima to Cusco

In a country as large as Peru (which is about double the size of Texas), flying is generally considered the most time-efficient means of travelling between Lima and Cusco, with Cusco being the airport you need to fly into for Machu Picchu.

Not only can you land in Aeropuerto Internacional Jorge Chávez in Lima and change directly onto a flight to Cusco, but it’ll only take you 1.5 hours between take-off and landing.

As you’ll see below, this cuts your travel time down by around 22.5 hours. Seriously – we’re not kidding.

What’s more, there are a number of Peruvian and international carriers that operate along this route, including Sky Airline, Avianca and LATAM, with departures leaving more-or-less hourly from the capital.

If you book at least a week in advance (and a couple of months ahead between July and August), then you can expect to pay as little as $80 USD return. Note that it’s always best to book flights as early in the morning as possible as poor weather in and around Cusco can cause delays and flight cancellations.

Aeropuerto Internacional Alejandro Velasco Astete, aka Cusco’s airport, lies just a short, 20-minute taxi drive from the city center, making it easy to reach your hotel from there.

Pros: With a flight time of just 1.5 hours, you can expect to get from Lima to Cusco in less than four hours (including two hours before the flight, 1.5 hours on the flight and 30 mins to pick up luggage).

Cons: If you choose to fly directly from Lima to Cusco, an important consideration to take into account is altitude. As you are travelling from sea level to 3,399 m (11,150 ft), you can expect to feel the impact of the altitude and you will require at least two days to acclimate. Prescription tablets such as Diamox, alongside drinking plenty of water, taking light meals and not overexerting yourself physically, will help your body to do this.

Price: Around $80 USD. You can buy tickets online via the airlines’ websites.

From Lima to Cusco by bus

The second option to get you on the first leg of the journey from Lima to Machu Picchu is by taking the bus from Lima to Cusco.

This trip isn’t for the faint of heart: it’s a 24-hour marathon that takes you approximately a quarter of the way across the country, climbing from sea level up into the lofty peaks of the Andes Mountains.

Admittedly, many travelers choose to combine this bus journey with stopovers in interesting destinations en-route such as Nazca and Arequipa, but it is still a significantly slower and considerably more dangerous means of travelling between Lima and Cusco.

There are two different routes that the buses take:

18-21 hours: Lima-Nazca-Abancay-Cusco: The quickest route heads south down the coast from Lima before going east inland at Nazca where it begins to climb into the foothills of the Andes, passing towns such as Puquio and Abancay along the way.

Despite being the most direct route, visitors are not recommended to take this bus journey, as the risk of landslides during rainy season and crashes caused by windy, steep roads throughout the year pose a serious danger. What’s more, historically, the route has experienced a number of hijackings (something that has reduced in recent years).

24-27 hours: Lima-Nazca- Arequipa-Cusco: Taking a longer path as it continues south before doing a loop inland via Arequipa, this journey is considered far safer thanks to the road being in a better condition and the switchbacks not as acute. As most bus companies who offer a direct service between Lima and Cusco take the aforementioned route, travelers wanting to travel this route will need to stop over in Arequipa. However, this does break the trip down into two more manageable bus journeys: Lima to Arequipa is 16 hours, while Arequipa to Cusco is 10 hours.

It’s also important to be aware of the quality and safety record of any buses that you take in Peru – and particularly for long, dangerous journeys such as these. The cost – and quality – of services varies considerably and some carriers have far superior comfort and safety records.

Cruz del Sur and Oltursa are considered among the best companies for taking this bus route from Lima to Cusco, with a higher safety record and levels of comfort than other carriers. This is down to the fact that they only pick up passengers from their own bus terminals (thus reducing the risk of theft or hijacking) and are more prudent when it comes to vehicle maintenance and ensuring that their drivers stick to speed limits. On both, you can expect air conditioning, meals and beds that either recline 140˚ (semi-cama) or 160˚ (cama). There are also services aimed directly at tourists, including Peru Hop.

Pros: The journey is both cheap and scenic, giving you the opportunity to admire the coastal and Andean landscapes of Cusco. What’s more, you can stop along the way, using the bus as a means of visiting various tourist hotspots, something that also helps with acclimatization as you go more gradually up to high altitude.

Cons: It’s a mammoth amount of time to spend on a bus and few services offer more than one opportunity to get off and stretch your legs.

Price: Regardless of whether you travel via Abancay or Arequipa, should cost between $40 USD and $80 USD. You can buy tickets online via their websites or in their respective bus terminals in Lima.

The train from Lima to Cusco

Peru has never had a comprehensive rail network and the cities of Lima and Cusco have never been linked by train, which means that it is impossible to travel from Lima to Machu Picchu solely by train.

The closest option is the once-monthly Lima to Huancayo service – one of the world’s highest altitude train journey – that takes you from the coast up into the Andes on a breath-taking, 11-hour journey. However, from Huancayo, it’s still a grueling – and somewhat uncomfortable – 19 to 23-hour bus journey onwards to Cusco.

Pros: The scenery as you chug up into the Andes Mountains is nothing short of spectacular and the route is considered one of the world’s finest high-altitude train journeys.

Cons: Expect to experience altitude sickness due to the elevations reached during the train journey as it climbs over high-altitude passes. Upon arriving in Huancayo, you’re barely much closer to Cusco than you started. The onwards journey is also notorious for its poor safety record (through both hijacking, landslides and accidents).

Price: Prices start from $156 USD. Note that trains only depart once a month between March and November. You can buy tickets online on their website.

Getting from Cusco to Machu Picchu

You’ve arrived in the former capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco and you’re now within striking distance of the famed citadel, Machu Picchu. But there are still multiple ways of getting to the latter, whether it be on-foot, by bus or train. Prices vary between the services and one of the biggest factors may well be how long you have available to you for the trip.

Hiking the Inca Trail from Cusco to Machu Picchu

Perhaps the most famous means of getting from Cusco to Machu Picchu is via the Inca Trail , a 42-kilometer stone path laid by the Inca and used for them to travel quickly between their capital city and this important spiritual center.

Visitors must hike the trail using a licensed tour guide and, with only 500 daily permits up for grabs to do so, you need to book from six to nine months in advance! Most tours take four days to reach Machu Picchu, climbing up into the mountains via a number of challenging, high-altitude passes but with astounding mountain scenery as you go.

We personally recommend hiking a shorter version of the Inca Trail, whereby you hike the final day of the classic Inca Trail route and spend the following day touring Machu Picchu. Not only does this allow you to follow in the footsteps of the Inca, but it’s significantly less challenging in terms of hiking and permits are far easier to get hold of. If you’re planning your trip to Machu Picchu more last-minute, this might well be the option for you!

Pros: There’s no experience quite like arriving the same way that the Inca would have to Machu Picchu. Plus, you generally enter the site via the Sun Gate at dawn – which is an awe-inspiring experience as the sun rises over the grand former citadel.

Cons: The hike is challenging, climbing over passes that reach over 4,125 m (13,533 ft.) in altitude, so you need to be acclimatized before you begin, with at least a few days in Cusco. You can arrange porters and mules for your belongings with your tour group to ensure that you only need to concentrate on the scenery – putting one foot in front of the other. 

Price: Prices start from $500 USD. You can browse and book tours here .

Hiking other trails from Cusco to Machu Picchu

If you’re too late to book the Inca trail, never fear: a number of other hiking routes offer a different alternative for getting between Cusco and Machu Picchu.

The second most popular is the Salkantay trek , a four-day trail that climbs through breath-taking, high-Andean scenery past the dramatic mountains of Salkantay and Huamantay, two of the highest and more revered in the region, en-route to Machu Picchu.

Another alternative is the Lares trek , a three-day hike that passes through remote, untouched Andean communities, stops at hot springs for a pleasant post-hiking soak and provides a fascinating introduction to the culture of the local Quechua people. The latter also includes a journey on the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (see below) and can be customized to include homestays with local families along the Lares trail .  

But there are various other trails that can bring you to Machu Picchu: along the four-day Vilcabamba trek that climbs through dazzling glacial lakes to abandoned Inca archaeological sites or via the nine-day hike that connects Choquequirao and Machu Picchu.

Pros: Because they remain less popular than the traditional Inca Trail, all of the alternative hiking routes to Machu Picchu have fewer trekkers, giving you the chance to connect more closely with the dramatic landscapes that you encounter.

Cons: All of these hikes are challenging because of the altitude, with the highest elevation reaching 4,600 m (15,091 ft.) on the Salkantay trek and 4,800 m (15,748 ft.) on the Lares. Again, a few days in Cusco to acclimate is essential, while porters and mules for your belongings are generally included in your tour.

Price: Prices start from $550 US, depending on the route. You can browse and book tours online here .

Getting to Machu Picchu by bus from Cusco

The final option is a bus tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu. This is the cheapest method of getting to the ruins. Bus tours pick you up in Cusco and drive you the six or seven-hour journey to reach Hidroeléctrica, where the road ends.

From here, you will either need to pay an additional fee to take the train or you will need to hike the path that follows the train tracks for 11 km (6.8 mi) to reach Aguas Calientes, where you’ll stay overnight and from where you’ll visit Machu Picchu. The following day, you return to Hidroeléctrica on foot or by train.

Pros: The price. This is the cheapest means of getting from Cusco to Machu Picchu.

Cons: It’s not ideal for those who aren’t keen on hiking (although you can pay more to take the train).

Price: Tours start from around $120 USD, with a night in Aguas Calientes included.  

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How to Plan an Epic Peru Family Vacation

W hether you want to cross exploring the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu off your family’s travel bucket list, or you long to explore the magnificent geological features of Rainbow Mountain near Cusco, Peru represents the perfect spot for a multi-generational family vacation . We’ve been wanting to visit Peru for awhile and have always appreciated Our Whole Village ‘s philosophy and itineraries.

Our Whole Village (OWV) is a family-focused travel agency that designs meaningful and culturally immersive trips for families who want to create lasting memories, travel more consciously, and give back. I asked OWV to put together this Peru guide, including their favorite activities and accommodations.

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended. Please check out our  disclosure policy  for more details. Thank you for your support!

Peru Family Vacation Guide

Why take a family vacation to peru.

Peru contains stunning natural beauty, from high-elevation lakes to remote deserts and prime Amazon rainforest. Its rich and varied history means there are archaeological treasures from civilizations as diverse as the Norte Chico, Wari, Nazca, and Inca scattered across the land.

From the colonial charm of Cusco to the ancient splendor of Sacsayhuaman, the iconic llamas and alpacas of the Sacred Valley to the lush rainforests of Puerto Maldonado, there’s something for every age and interest in Peru. What’s more, the “Land of the Incas” boasts some of the best food in the world, founded on agricultural practices left unchanged for more than 2,000 years.

Where Is Peru?

South America is moderately easy to reach from the United States. While Peru has 234 airports, only 24 of those receive regularly scheduled flights from Peru’s leading domestic airlines. Most travelers fly directly into Lima’s Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) before catching connecting flights to final destinations such as Cusco (CUZ) or Puerto Maldonado (PEM) (for a visit to the Amazon Basin).

What to Know Before You Travel to Peru

Peru currency.

The  official currency of Peru  is the  nuevo sol  (S/) or Peruvian  sol . Since the nation still operates primarily on cash, keep plenty of paper money and coins on hand. Don’t expect to find ATMs or currency exchanges in small villages and towns. 

While US dollars may also be accepted, expect change given in the local currency. So, you’ll have to do a little math to make sure you receive the correct change.

Peru safety

In certain parts of Peru, such as the Columbian and Peruvian border area in the Loreto region, criminal activity is more common. The American government also recommends avoiding the area in central Peru known as the Valley of the Rivers Apurimac, Mantaro, and Ene. 

Remain aware of your surroundings and stay vigilant as you would with any location that you’re visiting while at home or abroad. Use common sense and don’t venture out after dark. For more information on safety during your vacation, check out the  latest update s . 

Vaccinations for Peru

The CDC does recommend travelers to Peru take certain precautions. Hepatitis A is an important one, as well as Typhoid, and Tetanus. Check out these travel vaccines for Peru recommended by Passport Health (which is a great place to go for your shots) to see what you might need to have before a visit.

Transportation in Peru

There is a vast diversity when it comes to forms of transportation in Peru , from antiquated trucks to modern air fleets. As you travel through the countryside, you will need to strike a balance between comfort, practicality, cost, and safety. Better yet, work with a travel company that can organize transportation needs in advance, relying on the most comfortable and modern standards. 

Peru Challenges and Concerns

When traveling to Peru, prepare for soaring heights and panoramic vistas. Of course, these views come with the potential for altitude sickness (or  soroche ). Prevention through acclimatization to higher elevation remains the best line of defense. 

Recognizing the telltale signs of altitude sickness is important. They include loss of appetite or nausea, headaches, lethargy, and poor sleep. To avoid altitude sickness, make rest a priority, avoid alcohol, and eat in moderation.

Healthcare in Peru

The public healthcare system provides all Peruvians with access to medical care regardless of their income. The private health sector is mainly centered in the capital city of Lima. 

Private clinics provide a much higher standard of care than public health facilities, and they have up-to-date medical equipment, supplies, diagnostic equipment, medicine, and well-trained nurses and physicians. Tourists to Peru should purchase an international health insurance policy before arrival to cover any expenses that arise while abroad. 

When is the Best Time to Visit Peru?

As with any vacation, you’ll need to choose the right time for you, but here is what you can expect when traveling to Peru.  Dry Season:  May to October.  Rainy Season:  November through April.  High Season:  July and August, mid-December to mid-January.

Optimal Travel Times:  April to June or September to November. It’s a good choice to travel during these times so that you can enjoy lighter crowds, warmer temperatures, and fewer rainy days.

What to Pack for Peru?

When in Peru, prepare to dress for a variety of microclimates found at various elevations. The nation contains 28 of the 32 world climates. What does this mean for multigenerational travelers? Remember to pack for temperature fluctuations. In other words, layering will be your friend.

Choose wrinkle-free materials that pack easily and can be washed on the go and air-dried. Don’t forget a compact raincoat for the occasional drizzle and a light down jacket for evenings when temperatures can drop drastically. 

You’ll also want to invest in comfortable walking shoes that can handle brief treks through the mountains or jungle. Plus, make sure to leave some extra room to bring back  souvenirs from Peru .

Things to do in Peru with kids

Paddleboard or kayak on piuray lagoon.

Enjoy a 15-minute yoga session before heading out onto Piuray Lagoon for a paddleboarding or kayaking lesson . The calm, mirror-like waters of the lake are perfect for practicing new skills while enjoying breathtaking vistas of the surrounding countryside. 

Enjoy an Immersive Visit to the Huilloc Community

Experience the vibrant indigenous culture of the Sacred Valley of the Incas (or Urubamba Valley) while being symbolically integrated into the Huilloc community. You’ll get dressed in typical clothes and use traditional tools to participate in the lifeways of the Andean people. 

Explore the Peruvian Amazon

From the Tambopata National Reserve to Manú National Park, enjoy spectacular views and many family-friendly activities. These include river cruises, accessible jungle hikes, visits to indigenous villages, and plenty of wildlife observation. A Peruvian Amazon tour is a great way to break up your trip.

Take the Vistadome Train to Machu Picchu

Savor the dramatic scenery of the Andes on a scenic train journey to the station at Agua Calientes. There, board a coach for a 25-minute ride to Machu Picchu , the fabled “Lost City of the Incas” built circa 1450 by the Inca emperor Pachacuti.  

What to Eat in Peru?  

Peruvian food is enjoying a moment and with good reason. This cuisine reflects the diverse history, culture, and local resources of the nation while offering plenty of mouthwatering recipes. What should you order while in Peru? Some of our favorite dishes include:

• Aji de Gallina : A chicken dish crafted using Peru’s famous bright yellow Aji Amarillo peppers. The slight spiciness of the meal keeps it from descending into boredom without proving “too hot” for kids. 
• Salchipapas : This mixture of papas (potatoes) and salchidas (sausage) will put a smile on any kid’s (or adult’s) face.  It also represents a hearty treat that’ll stick with you throughout the day. 
• Papas a la Huanca í na : This glorious mixture of  huancaína , a creamy cheese sauce, over boiled Peruvian potatoes and hard-boiled eggs tastes both rich and satisfying.
• Mazamorra Morada : This popular dessert is made from purple corn and fruit and will please just about any sweet-loving palate.

From  Aji de Gallina to Salchipapas , there’s no end to yummy Peruvian food for kids. What’s more, the Peruvian reliance on local vegetables and fruits translates into nutritious dishes sure to satisfy without causing a sugar rush.

Accommodations in Peru

Multigenerational travels to Peru provide ample opportunity for three generations (or more) of your family to come together for unforgettable memory-making. It’s important to find accommodations that fit the needs of your family. 

Where to Stay in Peru with a Family

Here are a few more upscale options for the most luxurious traveler:

• Belmond Miraflores (Lima)
• Tambo del Inka (Sacred Valley)
• Titilaka (Lake Titicaca)
• Inkaterra (Machu Picchu)
• Belmond Monasterio (Cusco)
• Palacio del Inka (Cusco)

Peru Itinerary ideas

A family vacation to Peru should be a minimum of 10 or 11 days long to allow for travel both ways. A flight from New York to Lima takes approximately eight hours. Peru family travel will also require time to acclimate to the high altitude of places within the Sacred Valley, including Cusco and Machu Picchu. 

Peru itinerary: Lima to Cusco

Fly into Lima and spend a couple of days exploring the city. Head to Cusco to start your Sacred Valley experience. At Piuray Lagoon, enjoy a kayaking or paddleboarding lesson before taking a traditional Andean ceramics class. 

Continue to Chinchero, Maras, Moray, and Ollantaytambo, to learn more about the vibrant Inca Civilization. In Huilloc, enjoy a community-based experience that provides a behind-the-scenes look into daily life. Then, take a scenic Vistadome train ride to Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you’ll savor the mystique and adventure of the “Lost City.” 

While visiting Machu Picchu, you can also stop into the small town of Aguas Calientes, nestled along the banks of the Urubamba River. There, the whole family can enjoy shops and eateries, or soaking in the hot springs. Then, take a short walk to the Machu Picchu Site Museum and Botanical Garen where you can explore a wide variety of local flora.

You can also discover the architectural wonders of Cusco and Sacsayhuaman or enjoy a horseback riding expedition in the Andes Mountains with a tour guide. For a sweet stop, participate in a chocolate-making workshop at a chocolate museum. 

This is the  Peru itinerary  we looked at for planning a trip.

Amazon Extension: Puerto Maldonado

Take a short flight from the Lima Airport into Puerto Maldonado Airport and head to the pier just 15 minutes away. From there, spend 45 minutes sailing along the Madres de Dios River to your hotel, experiencing expansive vistas of the forest along the way. 

Choose from a variety of excursions that allow you to explore the rainforest at your own pace. Options include a guided walk to learn more about the Amazon Basin, passing by impressive trees such as the Shihuahuaco and the strangler fig. Or, explore the river by night, keeping an eye out for the rainforest’s nocturnal creatures — owls, capybaras, nightjars, alligators, and more. 

The post How to Plan an Epic Peru Family Vacation appeared first on Groups Are A Trip .

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The Ultimate Vacation to Take in Every Decade of Your Life

Your next big adventure is right around the corner.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

The definition of a dream vacation varies from person to person, but no matter how you define it, everyone deserves to go on a big, once-in-a-lifetime trip. But where do you even begin planning such an epic getaway? Chances are the vacation you fantasize about in your 20s isn't what your 40-year-old self finds appealing — and with a world full of beautiful cultures, natural wonders, and historical sites, things can quickly become overwhelming. Do you book that ski trip to Japan or save up for an excursion through the Galápagos Islands instead?

To get the ball rolling, we've curated some incredible experiences for every decade of your life. These trips take into account your wallet (here's to you, 20-somethings), mobility, and what sort of destinations tend to call to people in different phases of life . Ready to dive in? Here we go.

In your 20s: Costa Rica

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Costa Rica is far enough from the U.S. to feel like a true escape, yet close enough to make finding cheap flights totally doable. Plus, the relatively affordable cost of living will help ease any financial concerns. You can grab an Imperial (a popular local beer) for about $1-$2, enjoy a sandwich and fries for around $10, and spend plenty of time lounging on the beach for free.

If you're traveling with friends, book a house near the ocean and spend your time near or in the water — surfing, snorkeling, fishing, and kitesurfing. When you're ready for more, a short trip inland will transport you to lush rain forests that house sloths, spider monkeys, colorful birds, and jaguars. For guaranteed animal sightings, head to Centro de Rescate y Santuario Las Pumas in southern Cañas, an animal sanctuary and rescue center. And if you're craving adventure, hike one of the country's many volcanoes or zip line through the clouds.

In your 30s: Japan

There's something for everyone in Japan , with its next-level cityscape, rugged mountains, natural hot springs ( this one in particular), and stunning beaches. All you have to do is narrow things down — which is easier said than done.

In Tokyo , check out the fashion at Harajuku, make your way across Shibuya Crossing, and visit the bars and cafes of Akihabara. For culture and history, head to Kyoto, where you'll find a plethora of Buddhist temples, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines, and perfectly manicured gardens.

Adventure lovers should visit in the winter when skiing takes over the northern island of Hokkaido, and the natural hot springs become a daily must. Alternatively, you can ski the Japanese Alps on the main island of Honshu and make time to visit the hot spring-loving monkeys at Jigokudani Monkey Park . If warm, sandy shores are more your style, head to the Okinawa Islands, where you'll find clear turquoise waters and white-sand beaches.

In your 40s: Machu Picchu, Peru

Chris Marinaccio/Travel + Leisure

The sprawling agricultural terraces, mountain views, and intricate Incan citadels of Machu Picchu have captivated travelers for centuries. But sorting out the logistics takes time, and some of the best experiences involve strapping on a backpack (loaded with the right supplies) and conquering the journey by foot. That's why this trip is perfect for adventurous travelers in their 40s who have the know-how, time, and resources to book the once-in-a-lifetime getaway.

Make time to enjoy Lima and the UNESCO World Heritage city of Cusco, in addition to the trip's main draw: the arrival at Machu Picchu. Remember, many trips are fully customizable, and you can hike, drive, or take the train. For a classic take on the trip, stick to the Inca Trail, but to avoid the crowds (at least the worst of them), you might want to book a trek that takes you around Salkantay Mountain. There are also add-on excursions, including a visit to the Lares region. It's hard to go wrong.

In your 50s: Galápagos Islands

The wonders of the Galápagos are no secret, but until you visit for yourself, it's hard to know just how special the place really is. Thanks to serious protection efforts by the Galápagos National Park and the Galápagos Marine Reserve, the islands and the animals that inhabit them are still relatively untouched. You'll spot blue-footed boobies locked in a mating dance, swim with sea lion pups, and watch marine iguanas sunning themselves next to Galápagos penguins.

To experience the islands, you'll need to book a tour and spend several days living off of a boat, which is why a small-scale luxury yacht with an onboard naturalist is well worth the extra cost. Check out the offerings from INCA (International Nature & Cultural Adventures), a well-respected travel company that keeps its group sizes small and trip quality high — from multi-course meals to luxe extras like onboard Wi-Fi and a rooftop hot tub.

In your 60s: France

If you do it right, a trip to France can include all the bells and whistles of a once-in-a-lifetime trip. Start in Paris, soaking up the wonders of the city — from picnics under the twinkling Eiffel Tower to afternoons spent exploring the Palace of Versailles to dinners at one of the city's Michelin-starred restaurants.

From there, rent a car and head southwest to the coastal city of La Rochelle, where you'll nosh on freshly caught fish and explore the medieval and Renaissance architecture of the old town. A drive further down the coast puts you in Bordeaux , home to great food and even better wine. You'll want to make a pit stop in the charming surf town of Biarritz before cutting east toward the French Riviera . As you travel along the stunning Mediterranean coast, swing by cities like Marseille and Nice, glitzy communities like St. Tropez and Cannes, and under-the-radar towns like Cassis and Antibes. Before returning to Paris , make time to stroll the lavender fields of Provence and drive among the jaw-dropping French Alps.

It's a trip that not only exposes you to the finer things in life — architecture, art, and French food and wine — but will open your mind to the distinctly French way of living, a mindset that is perfect for your 60s.

In your 70s and beyond: South Africa

There's more to Africa than safaris — and this trip with smarTours proves it. In addition to visiting Kruger National Park, one of Africa's largest game reserves with a high density of animals (including the Big Five — lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalos), you'll get to explore the South African cities of Cape Town , Durban, and Johannesburg, learn about the legacy of Nelson Mandela, and check out the countries of Eswatini and Zimbabwe (if you book the extension).

The trip is ideally suited to travelers ready to get out and explore but don't want the stress of booking every detail or committing to a ton of physical activity. With a bit of thoughtful planning (and the help of smarTours), galavanting all over South Africa and seeing incredible animals is not only doable, it's easy.

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Machu Picchu Day Trip from Cusco – Cusco to Machu Picchu Day Trip

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Visiting Peru for the first time and want to visit Machu Picchu but are short on time? Then this day trip from Cusco to Machu Picchu tour is for you!

Embark on an unforgettable full-day Machu Picchu tour from Cusco. Our seasoned experts at Machu Picchu Tours meticulously tailor this Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco. Trust us, your local tour operator, to guide you through this remarkable experience.

Imagine the thrill of visiting Machu Picchu, the iconic Inca citadel perched high in the Andes. Mystery and history shroud the citadel. As dawn creeps over the mountains, we will set off.

Machu Picchu Day Trip from Cusco:

Our Cusco to Machu Picchu day trip promises a journey through breathtaking landscapes. It also offers a step back into a storied past.

Our local tour guide, with a fountain of knowledge, will lead the way. We will ensure every moment is enriching. You will spend 30 minutes at each significant site, including the Temple of the Sun and Sacred Rock. We will commence with a scenic train ride from Cusco, where the gentle clatter of the rails sets the rhythm for adventure.

We will handle all the coordinating with the train schedule to ensure a seamless experience as you get from Cusco to Machu Picchu. As the train snakes through the Andean scenery, the anticipation will build. It will continue to grow until the first sight of the Inca citadel appears on the horizon.

Upon arrival, we will collect our entrance tickets to Machu Picchu and dive into the heart of the ruins. Our expert guide will unveil the secrets of the Inca as we traverse the stone pathways. Throughout the tour to Machu Picchu, we will indulge in moments of free time. This will allow for personal reflection or a quiet gaze over the verdant valleys.

Post-exploration, we will take the train ride briefly, whisking us back to the comfort of your hotel in Cusco. For those with a student card, discounts will beckon, adding yet another perk to this trip to Machu Picchu.

At Machu Picchu Tours, we are more than a travel agency; we are custodians of your journey to one of the world’s wonders. Join us, and let’s create memories that will echo through time.

As we conclude our day from Cusco to Machu Picchu, you will find that this journey is more than just a tour; it is an immersion into history, culture, and natural beauty. The memories you create at Machu Picchu will be cherished for a lifetime, and the stories you will gather will be shared for years to come.

Whether you are a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first adventure to Peru, this trip to Machu Picchu is designed to leave you in awe and inspire your wanderlust. So pack your bags, bring your curiosity, and get ready for an unforgettable experience with Machu Picchu Tours.

Useful information on Cusco to Machu Picchu day trip:

To ensure you make the most of your visit, we have compiled some essential Peru tips and recommendations to help you plan your perfect day trip to Machu Picchu.

First, it is highly recommended to spend at least 3 days in the city of Cusco before visiting Machu Picchu. This period allows you to acclimate to high altitudes, which is crucial for avoiding altitude sickness when you reach Machu Picchu. 

Moreover, if you are wondering about the best way to get to Machu Picchu from Lima, our insider tips can be incredibly helpful.

Lastly, do take a moment to check our reviews on Trip Advisor. These reviews offer valuable insights from fellow Peru travelers who have already experienced the journey from Cusco to Machu Picchu so you can rest easy knowing we provide the best tour to Machu Picchu for you.

Departure & Return Location

Cusco Hotel Transfer

Departure Time

04:30 – 5:30 AM

Cusco to Machu Picchu day trip Includes

• Professional English speaking Tour Leader in Machu Picchu
• Pick-up and drop off in your hotel
• Transportation by bus to and from Ollantaytambo train station
• Round trip Expedition train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes town
• Entrance fee to Machu Picchu
• Return bus from Machu Picchu site to Aguas Calientes town (Machu Picchu pueblo)

Cusco to Machu Picchu day trip Excludes

• Entrance to Huayna Picchu
• Travel Insurance

Recommended To Carry

• Original Passport (Same as used at time of booking for Machu Picchu and train tickets)
• Walking boots and Walking Sticks
• Sun glasses and Sun hat or cap
• Protect & hydrate sunscreen lotion (factor 60 or 70+ is recommendable )
• Personal medication
• Camera and film, fully charged & extra batteries (batteries drain quicker in the cold)

Useful Information on Cusco to Machu Picchu day trip

• Highest Altitude: 3762 m/ 12342 ft /(Chinchero town )
• Distance to get from Cusco to Machu Picchu: 112km / 69.6 miles
• Train To Machu Picchu – Peru Rail Expedition Train
• Consideration – Entrance tickets required

Machu Picchu Full Day Tour

We will embark on a spellbinding day trip to Machu Picchu from Cusco. This expedition is steeped in wonder and radiates rich history. Check out 10 interesting facts about Machu Picchu to get you started.

Our tour begins with a picturesque drive from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, the gateway to the Inca Trails.

There, we will board a train to Aguas Calientes. Eagerly, we will anticipate the awe-inspiring views that await us en route.

Our arrival in Aguas Calientes marks the prelude to the pinnacle of our journey to get to Machu Picchu. We will step onto the round-trip bus, which is included in your tour price, and ascend to Machu Picchu. 

This bus ride is a pathway to ancient times, offering breathtaking views of the Andean landscapes. To get the best pictures of the view, check out these tips on best photography tips in Machu Picchu from our local experts.

At Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , we will dive into a two-hour guided tour. We will explore the intricate stonework and marvel at the engineering prowess of the Inca civilization. We will stand in the presence of the Temple of the Sun and imagine the world through the eyes of the Incas.

Following our time at Machu Picchu, we will return to Aguas Calientes. Here, we may relish some leisure time before the train whisks us back to Ollantaytambo. Finally, we will journey back to Cusco to complete our Cusco to Machu Picchu day tour. Here, our tour will come to a close, leaving us with a trove of unforgettable memories.

The following statistics characterize the Machu Picchu Full Day Tour

Embark on an unforgettable journey with our Machu Picchu Full Day Tour. This adventure offers a perfect blend of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and cultural immersion. Whether you’re an avid traveler or a first-time explorer, this day tour promises to leave you with lasting memories. Here are some key statistics to help you prepare for the experience:

• The total distance covered from Cusco to Machu Picchu and back is around 112 kilometers (70 miles).
• We will ascend to the highest altitude of 2,430 meters (7,972 feet) at Machu Picchu.
• The lowest altitude we will experience is in Aguas Calientes at 2,040 meters (6,692 feet).
• The overall level of difficulty for the tour is moderate, accommodating a wide range of travelers.

As we prepare for this day trip from Cusco to Machu Picchu , we will take care of every logistical detail for you, right from the handling the train tickets to the guided exploration of the Inca citadel. 

With Machu Picchu Tours, your adventure to this ancient wonder will be nothing short of extraordinary. Enquire today!

How long is the train ride from Cusco to Machu Picchu?

The train ride from Cusco to Machu Picchu takes between 1 hour and 30 minutes and up to 5 hours, depending on which route you take and what service you book.

How much is the train ticket from Cusco to Machu Picchu?

The price of a train ticket from Cusco to Machu Picchu usually starts from £100 ($122 USD) for a return trip. Luxury services cost more. Enquire with us for the exact price for your intended Machu Picchu trip!

Do you need a reservation for Machu Picchu?

Yes, reservations are required due to its popularity. But don’t worry, Machu Picchu Tours will handle it for you.

Can you do a day trip from Cusco to Machu Picchu?

Yes! You can do a day trip from Cusco to Machu Picchu and back (112 kilometers) by joining Machu Picchu Tours Cusco to Machu Picchu day trip. This expert-led tour will take care of every logistical detail for you.

How long is the trek from Cusco to Machu Picchu?

The trek from Cusco to Machu Picchu is around 56 kilometers (34 miles).

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We did this tour after our Lake Titicaca Trip and this was the best experience we had in South America. The travel company was very well organised and attentive. The guide knew a lot about the archaeological site too. Highly recommended.

Had an amazing journey with John. He showed us the major tourist attractions and then took us to places you’d only know if you’re a true local. John’s has superior knowledge on the history of the region and is also a fantastic translator. Definitely will be choosing John and Machu Picchu Tours for my next trip to Peru