Cusco City Tour, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu – 3 Days Tour

Expedition Brief 

• Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights 

• Experience Level: Moderate; an accessible blend of walking tours and light exploration. 

• Max Altitude: 3,700m (12,139ft) in Cusco / 2,430m (7,972ft) at Machu Picchu. 

• Start: Immersive exploration of Cusco’s imperial foundations. 

• Pickup: Direct from your Cusco hotel. 

• Accommodation: 1 Night in Cusco (Rumi Punku or similar); 1 Night in Aguas Calientes (Tierra Viva or similar).

• Meals: 1 Lunch (Urubamba), 1 Dinner (Aguas Calientes), 2 Breakfasts. 

• Group Size: Boutique groups, max 6 people. 

• The Narrative: A curated descent from the Incan Capital through the Sacred Valley to the Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. 

• Logistics: Seamless transit via private van and the scenic expedition train. 

• Best Time to Visit: April through October for peak visibility and dry Andean skies. 

• Highlights: Private tours of Qoricancha, Sacsayhuamán, Pisac, Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu. 

• Includes: Expert licensed guide, all site entrance fees (Cusco & Sacred Valley), Machu Picchu permits, and all internal transportation. 

• Permits: High demand: we recommend securing your date 4–5 months in advance to guarantee the most comprehensive Machu Picchu circuit. 

• Perfect For: Travelers desiring a complete cultural and historical deep-dive into the Incan heartland without an overnight trek.

What You’ll Discover On This Tour 

• The Golden Core (Qoricancha): Explore the Temple of the Sun, where the empire’s most flawless stonework served as the spiritual heart of the Inca world. 

• The Megaliths of Sacsayhuamán: Marvel at massive, 100-ton limestone blocks fitted with impossible precision at this hilltop fortress overlooking Cusco. 

• The Sacred Circuit: Journey through the mist of history at Qenqo, Pucapucara, and the Inca Baths of Tambomachay. 

• Andean Textiles & Fauna: Meet native llamas and alpacas at a traditional farm to discover the ancient art of highland weaving and natural dyes. 

• The Heights of Pisac: Explore a massive hilltop fortress and its iconic agricultural terraces overlooking the heart of the Sacred Valley. 

• Ollantaytambo Fortress: Walk the original stone streets of this living Inca citadel, a strategic military masterpiece and gateway to Machu Picchu. 

• The Iconic Vantage: Witness the sun rise over the granite citadel, capturing the definitive panoramic view of the world’s most famous sanctuary. 

• Sacred Architecture: Explore the Lost City alongside an expert guide, navigating the temples, sun-dials, and masterfully engineered pathways of the Inca. 

• Huayna Picchu Peak: Take the optional, high-altitude climb for a dramatic bird’s-eye view of the ruins and the surrounding Andean cloud forest.

The Experience 

• Native Insight: Led by professionals born and raised in these mountains, your journey is backed by real stories and authentic Andean context. 

• Personal Briefing: We meet you at your hotel the night before you leave to sync on logistics and answer every last question. 

• Complete Coordination: We own the logistics. Permits, trains, and transfers are all handled by our team so you don't have to check a single clock. 

• Narrative Design: A curated 3-day flow that connects the dots between Incan engineering and the spiritual peak of Machu Picchu.

Safety First 

• Expert Guardians: Every journey is led by a veteran licensed guide whose expertise is measured in years of mountain leadership and deep-rooted local knowledge. 

• Uncompromising Safety: Your well-being is our baseline. We maintain an impeccable track record through rigorous emergency protocols and specialized high-altitude training. 

• High-Performance Gear: We invest in top-tier, professional-grade equipment designed to withstand the Andean elements while ensuring your absolute comfort. 

• A Legacy of Trust: Our reputation is built on years of consistently exceptional feedback. With us, you aren't just a guest; you are in the region's most capable hands.

Why You’ll Love Trekking with Us 

Three days. Infinite history. Experience the soul of the Incan heartland. 

Qoricancha Expeditions 

Authentic | Trusted | Reliable | Safe | Community-Focussed | Smaller Groups

Day 1: The Imperial Foundation

This Cusco tour is available in the morning (8:30 am – 1:00 pm) and afternoon (1:00 pm – 5:30 pm). Choose your preferred time based on availability. Most groups opt for the afternoon, but for a more peaceful, less crowded experience at the Inca sites, the morning is recommended.

Your tour begins with a convenient hotel pickup in Cusco. You’ll start your journey at the Main Plaza of Cusco, a historically rich location where your expert guide will transport you back in time to the Inca era. Surrounded by ancient Inca temples, you’ll gain fascinating insights into life during the Inca civilization.

From the Main Plaza, enjoy a scenic walk along a charming street to Qoricancha, the heart of Inca architecture. Here, you’ll see the finest examples of Inca stonework and learn about the Temple of the Sun, the most important temple in the Inca Empire. After a guided tour of Qoricancha, we’ll continue with transportation to four prominent Inca sites on the northeast side of Cusco.

Our first stop is Sacsayhuamán, notable for its massive stone walls and strategic significance. From its elevated position, you’ll enjoy views of Cusco city. Sacsayhuamán stands apart from other Inca sites, including Machu Picchu, because of its impressive stone construction.

Next, we visit Qenqo, Pucapucara, and Tambomachay, each offering a unique perspective into the Inca civilization. Qenqo is a ceremonial site with intricate rock carvings, Pucapucara is a military outpost, and Tambomachay is famous for its aqueducts and fountains.

After exploring these Inca heritage sites, we’ll return to Cusco and drop you off at your hotel. This tour offers deeper insights into Inca culture and history, which continue to captivate travelers from around the world.

• Accommodation: RumiPunko or similar
• Tickets: Included
• Meals: No include

Day 2: Heart of the Sacred Valley

Today, your Sacred Valley tour begins with a hotel pickup at 8:00 am. We’ll take a scenic 30-minute drive to an Alpaca farm, where you’ll have the chance to get up close with llamas, alpacas, guanacos, and vicuñas. This farm is an exciting experience for animal lovers and also serves as an educational center. Our expert guide will share insights into the textile traditions passed down through generations of Andean cultures and still alive today.

After visiting the Alpaca farm, we’ll continue with a 1-hour drive to the Pisac Inca site, one of the largest archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley. Known for its extensive agricultural terraces, Pisac was an agricultural center where the Incas cultivated potatoes, corn, and quinoa. Our guide will share insights into Inca farming practices and the historical significance of the site.

After exploring Pisac, we’ll head to the vibrant Pisac town market where you’ll experience the bustling atmosphere of a local Andean market. This is a great opportunity to purchase traditional handicrafts and witness the daily life of the Sacred Valley’s inhabitants.

Next, we’ll travel to Urubamba for lunch, where you can savor the flavors of Peruvian cuisine. Afterward, we’ll drive to Ollantaytambo, a stunning Inca fortress and important archaeological site that served as a prelude to Machu Picchu. Here, you’ll take a guided tour to learn about the significance of Ollantaytambo in the Inca Empire, especially its role as a military and religious center.

At the end of our exploration, we’ll take the afternoon train to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll spend the night and rest for your visit to Machu Picchu the next day. This day offers a mix of cultural immersion, historical discovery, and natural beauty in the heart of the Sacred Valley, providing a deeper understanding of Peru’s rich heritage.

• Accommodation: Tierra Viva hotel or similar
• Tickets: Included
• Meals: Lunch and Dinner

Day 3: The Sanctuary of Machu Picchu

Today marks a key moment in your journey. After an early breakfast, your guide will meet you at your hotel and accompany you to the bus station. You will board one of the first buses to Machu Picchu, recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Upon arrival, your guide will lead you to a vantage point with impressive views of the citadel in the Andes.

Important: We recommend booking your tour at least 4 to 5 months in advance to secure entry for Circuit 2, the most popular and comprehensive route. Your travel advisor will confirm the circuit included in your package at the time of booking. Please confirm this detail before placing your deposit. Machu Picchu offers three circuits, each with unique features, and none covers the entire site.

Pause to appreciate the scenery before your guided tour begins. You will visit key areas of the site, including temples, water channels, and stone pathways. Your guide will share insights into Inca history, architecture, and spirituality to enhance your experience.

If you would like additional adventure, you can add a climb to Huayna Picchu, the peak behind the citadel. This hike requires advance booking and costs $75 per person. The round trip takes about two hours and offers exceptional views from the summit.

After your guided tour, you will return by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch before boarding the train to the Sacred Valley. Our driver will meet you at the station and transfer you to your Cusco hotel, with arrival expected between 7:30 and 8:00 pm. We hope you leave with lasting memories of your visit to Machu Picchu.

• Accommodation: None - book on your own
• Tickets: Included
• Meals: Only breakfast at hotel.

Packing List

To fully enjoy your Andean adventure, we recommend arriving in Cusco at least two days early to acclimatize to the altitude. Weather in the mountains is beautifully unpredictable. We suggest packing versatile layers, reliable rain gear, and a lightweight daypack (25-30L) for your trail essentials.

Since this is a streamlined tour, traveling light allows you to focus on the views while we handle the heavy lifting behind the scenes.

1. The Must-Haves (Keep these at the top of bag)

• Original Passport: The exact one used to book your permit. No copies or photos are accepted by park rangers.

• Cash (Soles): Small bills for tips, snacks, or souvenirs in Aguas Calientes.

• Travel Insurance: Ensure your policy covers high-altitude trekking.

2. Clothing: Layer Up!

• Footwear: Moisture-proof, broken-in hiking boots or trail runners with aggressive traction.

• The Foundation: Moisture-wicking base layers (merino wool or synthetic). Pro-tip: Avoid cotton, which retains cold and moisture.

• Thermal Control: A packable down jacket or fleece for crisp mornings, paired with a 100% waterproof shell or professional poncho.

• Fresh Clothes: A fresh change of lightweight clothing and comfortable sneakers / trainers or sandals for your evening in Aguas Calientes.

• Evening Wear: Lightweight shoes (sandals or sneakers) and a fresh change of clothes for your hotel and Day 2 at the citadel.

3. Trail Gear & Protection

• Hydration: A 2L reusable reservoir or bottle. (Single-use plastic bottles are restricted within the sanctuary).

• Sun & Bug Defense: High-SPF sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a strong insect repellent (essential for the cloud forest).

• Energy: Trail mix, energy bars, or chocolate to keep your stamina up between meals.

4. Personal Wellness

• Medication: Personal prescriptions and altitude sickness pills (consult your doctor).

• Hygiene: Hand sanitizer, lip balm, and mountain gold (toilet paper/biodegradable wipes).

• Power: A portable power bank to ensure your phone or camera is ready for the Sun Gate reveal.

Pro Packing Tips

• The 30L Rule: Your entire kit for the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu should fit in a standard 25–30L daypack.

• Secure Storage: Most travelers leave their heavy luggage at their Cusco hotel. We recommend bringing only the essentials for the 3-day loop.

• Weatherproofing: Line your daypack with a dry bag or heavy-duty plastic liner to protect electronics from unpredictable Andean rain.

What’s Included in Your Journey

Private Orientation: A personalized briefing at your hotel the evening before departure to synchronize logistics and finalize preparations. 

Andean Expert Guide: A career professional with native-level insights into Incan history, spirituality, and the traditions of the Sacred Valley. 

Seamless Logistics: Door-to-door service including Cusco hotel pick-up, private transport through the Sacred Valley, and round-trip rail services. 

Hand-Picked Accommodations: Two nights in curated boutique hotels: one in the heart of Cusco and one in Aguas Calientes, selected for comfort and local character. 

Curated Dining: 

• Day 2: A traditional lunch in Urubamba and dinner in Aguas Calientes. 

• Day 3: A fresh breakfast at your hotel.

Mountain Transit: Full round-trip shuttle bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and the Machu Picchu sanctuary entrance. 

All Entry Fees & Permits: Guaranteed entrance for all sites in Cusco, the Sacred Valley (Pisac/Ollantaytambo), and the Machu Picchu citadel. 

Safety & Security: Every journey is equipped with a comprehensive first-aid kit and emergency medical oxygen. 

Concierge Support: 24/7 standby assistance from our local operations team to ensure a flawless experience from start to finish.

Not Included

To ensure there are no surprises, please note that the following items are not covered in the standard tour price: 

• Lunches on Day 1 & 3: You will have the opportunity to explore Cusco’s culinary scene on Day 1 and enjoy a final meal in Aguas Calientes on Day 3. 

• Travel Insurance: We strictly recommend comprehensive insurance that covers high-altitude travel and trip cancellations. 

• Gratuities: Tips for your professional guide and transport staff are at your discretion and are deeply appreciated for exceptional service. 

• Additional Beverages: Alcoholic drinks, bottled water, or snacks purchased outside of the scheduled group meals.

  Upgrade Options:

• Vistadome Train: Upgrade one-way for $75 or round-trip for $130 for a panoramic journey.

• Hiram Bingham Train: Experience luxury travel at $520 only possible for return.

• Luxury Hotels: Stay at Inkaterra Pueblo Hotel ($350) or Sumaq Hotel ($290) per person.

• Huayna Picchu: $75 per person, advance booking is required due to high demand. The hike occurs after your Machu Picchu tour.

Book Your Adventure: Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu l 3-Days & 2-Nights 

Because permits are strictly limited by the Peruvian government, we recommend booking 3–4 months in advance to secure your preferred dates. 

Group Expedition Pricing

Small-group settings that foster friendship and deeper discovery. 

• Adults $645 Per Person. A minimum of 2 people is required to depart. 

An Exclusive Expedition: Looking for a Private encounter with Incan history? 

• $790 per person: For 2-3 people 

• $740 per person: For 4-5 people 

• $690 per person: For 6-7 people 

• $645 per person: For 8+ People

Why Book with Qoricancha Expeditions? 

• Instant Permit Confirmation: We secure your legal permits immediately upon booking. 

• No Hidden Fees: Your price includes trains, buses, transfers, and 3-star hotels. 

• Support Local: Your booking supports our community library project in Chinchero.

Secure Your Spot Today 

We bridge the gap between the Sacred Valley and the Sun Gate, managing every permit and transit detail so you can simply exist within the landscape.

• WhatsApp: +51 981 345 935 

• Email: info@qoricanchaexpeditions.com

• Find us on Facebook: Qoricancha Expeditions