Cusco Tours 5 Days / 4 Nights

Overview of Cusco Tours 5 Days 4 Nights

During this 5 day tour, you will see Cusco and Machu Picchu, you will do a city tour, which includes the surrounding ruins in Cusco. Using the Tourist train, you will get to Aguas Calientes and the Lost City of Machu Picchu.

This Cusco and Machu Picchu package combines ancient history and traditions. Ideal for travelers seeking cultural immersion, the trip offers guided experiences, scenic train rides, and unforgettable views, making it one of the most memorable ways to explore Peru’s iconic sites.

Throughout the journey, visitors will encounter highland landscapes, Inca archaeological treasures, and vibrant local communities, providing a complete experience of Peru’s heritage and natural beauty.

Highlights of Cusco Tours 5 Days 4 Nights

• Cusco City & Nearby Ruins: Explore the main plazas, Qoricancha, and other iconic Inca sites
• Maras Terraces & Moray Salt Pans: Half-day tour to these unique highland agricultural wonders
• Sacred Valley of the Incas: Full-day tour including Pisac Market, Ollantaytambo and Inca terraces
• Machu Picchu Adventure: Guided tour of the legendary citadel with overnight stay in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo)
• Cultural & Scenic Immersion: Witness Andean traditions, breathtaking mountain landscapes, and remote valleys

By booking Cusco tours 4 Days 3 Nights, you’re choosing the best. Check out our Tripadvisor reviews. Join one of the top-rated tours in Cusco and experience Peru like never before. Let Cusco Journeys make your Machu Picchu adventure unforgettable.

Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco – Qoricancha – Sacsayhuaman – Puca Pucara – Tambomachay

Arrive in Cusco and meet your guide for a briefing on your 5-day tour. Start with a visit to Plaza de Armas and the Cathedral, then continue to Qoricancha, the Temple of the Sun. After a short drive, explore the Inca fortress of Sacsayhuaman, followed by stops at Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay, a water temple.

Day 2: Sacred Valley – Pisac – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

Start your full-day tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Visit the colorful town of Pisac (market and ruins), followed by a lunch stop in Urubamba. Then, explore Ollantaytambo, an ancient Inca fortress with impressive terraces and water channels. In the late afternoon, take the train to Aguas Calientes to rest before visiting Machu Picchu the next day.

Day 3: Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

Board one of the first buses to Machu Picchu for an early guided tour of the site, exploring the agricultural terraces, temples, and royal residences. After the tour, return to Aguas Calientes, where you can explore the town or relax in the thermal baths. In the afternoon, take the return train to Ollantaytambo and transfer back to Cusco by vehicle.

Day 4: Maras – Moray – Salt Mines – Cusco

Morning journey to Maras, enjoying views of the Cordillera Vilcanota and snow-capped peaks. Explore the Moray archaeological terraces, an Inca agricultural laboratory, followed by the Maras Salt Mines, still used by local villagers. Return to Cusco in the afternoon.

Day 5: Cusco – Domestic Flight – Lima

As your journey in Cusco ends, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight. If you’d like to extend your trip, inquire about additional tours or experiences. A return flight to Lima can be arranged upon request.

Important:

Machu Picchu tickets, including Circuit 2, are subject to availability at the time of booking. If Circuit 2 is sold out, we will provide Circuit 1 or 3. To secure your preferred circuit and schedule, we highly recommend booking as early as possible, as tickets sell out quickly on a first-come, first-served basis.

Detailed Itinerary – Cusco Tours 5 Days 4 Nights

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco & City Tour.

Upon arrival in Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, you’ll be transferred to your hotel and meet your guide for a detailed briefing about your Cusco Tours 5 Days 4 Nights adventure. Begin your exploration of the city, uncovering its mix of Inca engineering and colonial architecture that define Cusco’s cultural identity.

At 12:10 p.m., we’ll pick you up from your hotel to start the Cusco archaeological circuit. The tour begins at the Plaza de Armas, followed by a visit to the Cathedral of Cusco (entry not included), one of the most important religious monuments in Peru.

Next, continue along an ancient Inca-built street to Qoricancha, the Temple of the Sun, once the most sacred temple in the Inca Empire. From there, a 25-minute drive takes you to the monumental fortress of Sacsayhuaman, known for its megalithic stone walls weighing over 200 tons.

Continue to Qenqo, an important ceremonial site featuring carved altars, and then to Puca Pucara, a strategic military outpost overlooking the valley. The final stop is Tambomachay, a water temple used by Inca nobility for purification rituals.

After exploring these ancient landmarks, return to Cusco’s main square, or directly to your hotel if you’ve booked a private service.

*Optional: Buffet Dinner with Folkloric Show: Adding $39 per person.

• Accommodations: Hotel in Cusco.
• Meals Included: None
• Entrance Tickets: Included

Day 2: Sacred Valley Tour to Aguas Calientes.

Begin your journey through the Inca heartland with a full-day exploration of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, one of the most fertile and historically significant regions in Peru. Surrounded by towering Andean peaks, lush farmlands, and centuries-old terraces, the valley reflects the enduring agricultural and spiritual legacy of the Inca civilization.

Your first stop is the colorful town of Pisac, renowned as Peru’s artisanal capital. Here, local Quechua artisans display intricate textiles, alpaca garments, silver jewelry, and hand-carved crafts in the lively market at the main square. Pisac is the perfect place to experience authentic Andean culture and find meaningful souvenirs that carry the spirit of the Andes.

Continue to Urubamba, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Andean buffet lunch before traveling to Ollantaytambo, the only Inca town still continuously inhabited. This ancient fortress showcases impressive stone terraces, temples, and water channels, reflecting the advanced engineering skills of the Inca builders.

Later in the afternoon in Ollantaytambo we’ll catch the train to Aguas Calientes to get ready to explore Machu Picchu early the next morning.

• Overnight in Aguas Calientes.
• Meal Include: Breakfast and Buffet Lunch.
• Entrance Ticket: Included.

Day 3: Machu Picchu Experience

Begin your morning with an early breakfast before boarding one of the first buses to Machu Picchu, arriving just in time to witness the golden sunrise illuminating this ancient wonder. Watching the mist lift above the iconic citadel is an experience that captures the true spirit of the Andes.

Once inside, your professional guide will take you on a comprehensive two-hour exploration of the most remarkable areas within the Machu Picchu Sanctuary. Discover the harmony between stone, sky, and nature as you visit the agricultural terraces, royal residences, and sacred temples, each revealing a different aspect of Inca ingenuity and spiritual devotion.

After your guided visit, take the bus back to Aguas Calientes, where you can enjoy lunch at a local restaurant (not included). You’ll also have some free time to explore the small town, browse its local craft market, or unwind in the soothing thermal baths that gave the town its name.

Later in the afternoon, board your return train, following the winding course of the Urubamba River as it flows through steep valleys and green mountainsides. Along the way, keep an eye out for Wiñay Wayna, an impressive Inca site nestled high above the tracks.

Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, a private transfer will take you back to Cusco, where your memorable Machu Picchu journey concludes with wonderful stories and unforgettable memories.

Important Note: Machu Picchu archeological site is different from Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. The mountain requires a separate permit for those wishing to hike it. If you are interested in adding this experience, please let us know in advance so we can arrange it for you.

• Overnight in Cusco.
• Meals Include: Breakfast.
• Entrance Tickets: Included.

Day 4: Cusco – Maras – Moray – Salt Mines – Cusco

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, your guide and driver will pick you up around 9:00 a.m. to begin a colorful journey through the Andean countryside that surrounds Cusco. The drive offers stunning views of rolling farmlands, traditional villages, and snow-capped peaks.

Our first destination is the charming town of Maras, from where you can admire the majestic Vilcanota Mountain Range, with the iconic El Chicon and Veronica peaks dominating the skyline.

This picturesque village is a blend of pre-Hispanic roots and colonial architecture, showcasing the enduring character of the Andes. Continuing our adventure, we’ll head to Moray, an extraordinary archaeological site located about 7 miles southwest of Maras.

Here, a series of circular terraces descend into the earth, forming an enormous amphitheater-like structure that once served as an Inca agricultural laboratory—a remarkable example of their advanced understanding of microclimates and crop cultivation.

Our final stop is the world-famous Maras Salt Mines (Salineras de Maras), a breathtaking network of more than 3,000 terraced salt pools cascading down the mountainside. These salt pans have been in continuous use since Inca times, providing a fascinating glimpse into the ancestral traditions that still thrive today.

After exploring this spectacular site, we’ll return to Cusco, arriving in the afternoon and dropping you off at your hotel for a relaxing evening.

• Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco
• Meals Include: Breakfast.
• Entrance Tickets: Included

Day 5: Cusco – Domestic Flight – Lima.

As your journey in Cusco comes to an end, we will transfer you to the airport for your departure. However, your adventure doesn’t have to stop here! If you’d like to explore more, visit our tailor-made tours section or choose from our wide range of exciting travel experiences to extend your trip.

Please note: A return flight to Lima can be arranged upon request. Let us know if you’d like us to handle the booking for you.

• Accommodations: None
• Meals Included: Breakfast

What’s Included in Cusco Tours 5 Days 4 Nights

Included:

• Round trip transfers between airport and hotel (Cusco).
• Round trip transfers between hotel and train station.
• Tourist transport for all the mentioned tours.
• Tourist ticket for the Sacred Valley.
• Round trip train tickets between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes.
• Round trip bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
• Ground transportation for scheduled tours.
• Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu & all scheduled attractions (except Cusco Cathedral).
• English speaking guide for all scheduled tours.
• Accommodations 1 night in Aguas Calientes (breakfast included).
• Accommodations 3 nights in Cusco (breakfast included).
• Buffet Lunch at Urubamba Town.
• Permanent telephone assistance.

Not Included

• Entrance to the Cusco Cathedral (40 Peruvian Soles).
• Entrance to Salt mines (15 Peruvian Soles).
• International and domestic flights.
• Airport taxes.
• Meals not detailed in itinerary.
• Alcoholic drinks, soda or bottled mineral water.
• Hotel and train upgrades are available upon request.
• Travel insurance.
• Optional tips for guides and drivers.

Cusco Tours 5 Days 4 Nights Packing List:

After spending a lot of time travelling around Cusco we have come up with our definitive list of what to pack for a trip to Cusco Tours 5 days 4 nights.

• Worn in hiking boots or walking shoes.
• Light weight rain poncho.
• Down or thermal jacket and fleece.
• Sun protection; sunscreen and providing hat.
• Layerable clothing
• Toiletries pack with toilet paper, tissues and a lightweight towell.
• Day pack.
• Reusable water bottle to help reduce plastic waste.
• Personal first aid kit with prescriptions, pain relievers, antihistamine & stomach aids.
• Spare prescription glasses, contacts & lens solution plus a copy of prescription.
• Small flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries.
• Ear plugs for sleeping comfort.
• Warm hat, scarf & gloves.
• Extra zip lock bags of various sizes always come in handy.
• Insect repellent.
• Camera with extra batteries and SD cards.
• Combination locks to protect luggage, useful while traveling & in hotel rooms.

Prices for Cusco Tours 5 Days 4 Nights

Important note about Cusco Journeys service categories:

At Cusco Journeys, we offer a range of service categories designed to match different travel styles, comfort levels, and budgets. Whether you are looking for a social group experience or a fully customized private journey, each option ensures a high-quality experience while exploring Cusco and Machu Picchu.

Choose the travel style that fits you best:

• Standard: Budget-friendly group tours, ideal for social travelers
• Superior: More comfort and immersive experiences in small groups
• First Class: Private tours with flexible schedules and personalized service
• Luxury: Premium private tours with top accommodations and exclusive experiences

Note: Hotel reservations are subject to availability at the time of booking.

Discounts

We offer special discounts for eligible travelers. However, valid documentation is required at the time of booking:

• Ages 18 to 25: USD $25 discount
  To qualify, a valid student ID must include the university name, student name, photo, and expiration date. In addition, a copy must be submitted for government approval.
• Under 18 years old: USD $25 discount
  In this case, a passport copy is required at the time of booking.
• Under 11 years old: USD $30 discount
  Likewise, a passport copy must be provided to apply the discount.

Optional Extras (Must Be Booked in Advance)

You can enhance your experience by adding the following options:

• Machu Picchu Mountain hike: USD $75.00 per person
• Huayna Picchu Mountain hike: USD $75.00 per person
• Vistadome Train (Aguas Calientes – Cusco): USD $65.00 (one way)
  This upgrade is available only for Standard and Superior packages.
• Domestic Flights (Lima – Cusco – Lima):
  Prices are quoted at the time of inquiry and typically range from USD $185 to USD $289 per person, depending on the season. If you prefer, Cusco Journeys can arrange your flights for you.

5 Star Hotels4 Star Hotels3 Star Hotels

Frequently Asked Questions about Cusco Tours 5 Days 4 Nights

1.- What is included in the Cusco Tours 5 Days 4 Nights package?

The tour includes round-trip transfers between the airport and your hotel in Cusco, guided tours to Cusco’s archaeological sites, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu, round-trip train tickets to Aguas Calientes, bus tickets to Machu Picchu, entrance fees to all sites (except the Cusco Cathedral), and accommodation with breakfast in Cusco and Aguas Calientes.

2.- How do I get from Cusco to Machu Picchu?

During the Cusco Tours 5 Days 4 Nights, you will travel by train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, enjoying scenic views of the Sacred Valley along the way. From there, a short bus ride takes you to the entrance of Machu Picchu, where your guided experience begins.

3.- Are the Machu Picchu tickets included?

Yes, Machu Picchu entrance tickets are included in the Cusco Tours 5 Days 4 Nights package. However, permits for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are not included and must be booked in advance due to limited availability.

4.- What should I bring for the Cusco and Machu Picchu tour?

We recommend bringing comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing for changing temperatures, sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle. If you plan to hike, a small backpack is also recommended for convenience during excursions.

5.- Is this tour suitable for people with limited hiking experience?

Yes, the Cusco Tours 5 Days 4 Nights is suitable for most fitness levels. The itinerary mainly includes easy to moderate walking tours. However, optional hikes such as Huayna Picchu are available for those looking for a more challenging adventure.

6.- How much time will I spend in Machu Picchu?

Your guided tour of Machu Picchu lasts approximately 2 hours. After the guided portion, you will have some free time to explore on your own, take photos, and enjoy the surroundings before returning to Aguas Calientes.

7.- Can I visit the Maras Salt Mines and Moray?

Yes, the Cusco Tours 5 Days 4 Nights includes visits to both the Maras Salt Mines and the Moray terraces. These unique sites provide insight into Inca agricultural innovation and offer spectacular views of the Andean landscape.

8.- Are meals included in the tour?

Breakfast is included at your hotel each day, and a buffet lunch in Urubamba is provided during the Sacred Valley tour. However, other meals such as lunches in Aguas Calientes or dinners in Cusco are not included.

9.- Are there any additional fees during the tour?

Yes, there are a few additional costs to consider, such as entrance fees to the Cusco Cathedral (40 Peruvian Soles) and the Maras Salt Mines (20 Peruvian Soles). Tips for guides and drivers are optional but appreciated.

10.- How early should I book the tour?

We recommend booking at least 3 to 4 months in advance. This is especially important to secure your preferred Machu Picchu entrance time and circuit, as availability is limited and tickets sell out quickly.

Before You Go to Cusco & Machu Picchu

At Cusco Journeys, we’re committed to making your adventure in Peru memorable, safe, and easy to enjoy. Therefore, this brief guide includes the most important details to review before starting your trek or tour — from altitude preparation and luggage management to Machu Picchu entry and health tips.

For this reason, we recommend taking a moment to read it carefully, as it will help you get ready and experience the magic of the Andes with comfort and confidence.

Briefing Before the Tour

All informational meetings for traditional tours are held in person at your hotel in Cusco upon your arrival. In addition, you will receive a detailed program in advance once your booking is confirmed.

During this briefing, our guide will review the full itinerary, provide your tickets, and answer any final questions. As a result, you will be fully prepared for your adventure.

Trek Balance Payment (in Cusco)

If you have an outstanding balance, please make the payment at least two days before your trek or tour. Otherwise, your reservation cannot be confirmed.

Whenever possible, we kindly ask you to settle the remaining balance in cash (USD or Peruvian Soles) during your briefing session. For your convenience, there are several ATMs along Avenida Sol where you can withdraw both currencies.

You may also pay by credit/debit card or PayPal, either online or in person. However, please note that a 5% service fee will be applied by our payment gateways (Niubiz and PayPal).
Unfortunately, we are unable to accept bank checks or traveler’s checks.

Luggage Storage Options

Absolutely! During your trip, you may store your main luggage safely at our office or at your hotel, both free of charge. To arrange this, simply let us know during your briefing or by email in advance.

Any items you won’t need during the trek can remain at your hotel, as most accommodations offer secure storage. However, we strongly recommend avoiding leaving valuables in your bags. Instead, place them in the hotel safe and request an itemized receipt, as many insurance companies require this in case of loss.

For added security, you may also store important items such as credit cards in a sealed and signed envelope.

Machu Picchu Entrance Circuits and Schedule

Machu Picchu now operates with specific timed entries and fixed circuits to preserve the site. As a result, visitor flow is better managed and the experience is more enjoyable for everyone.

Main Circuits

• Circuit 1: Upper viewpoints and panoramic terraces
• Circuit 2: Central area of the citadel
• Circuit 3: Lower sector and agricultural terraces

For our groups, the standard visit is usually Circuit 1 or 3, scheduled around 7:00 or 8:00 a.m., depending on ticket availability and government regulations. After completing your route, park rangers will guide you toward the exit, as re-entry is not allowed.

If you would like to explore a different circuit or stay longer, you can request an additional entrance ticket, subject to availability and extra cost.

Pick-Up of Guests

All pick-ups are made from your hotel within Cusco City. For this reason, we recommend staying in the historic center for easier access.

Our guide will confirm your pick-up time one day before the tour. However, please note that it may vary by 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and hotel locations.

Cusco is an ancient city with narrow, cobbled streets. Therefore, some hotels or Airbnbs may not have direct vehicle access. In such cases, we will coordinate the closest possible meeting point for your convenience.

Return from Machu Picchu to Cusco

Returning from Machu Picchu involves several steps. However, there’s no need to worry, as everything is included in your tour.

After visiting Machu Picchu, you’ll take a 25-minute bus down to Aguas Calientes. Then, you will board a train to Ollantaytambo, following the schedule provided by your guide.

Please remember to arrive at the platform at least 30 minutes before departure.

The train ride takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. Afterward, a 2-hour bus journey will take you back to Cusco City.

Group Tours

Our group tours bring together travelers of different ages and fitness levels. Even so, everyone can walk at their own pace, while the guide ensures the group moves comfortably.

If necessary, minor changes to the itinerary may be made, and the guide will decide after consulting with the group.

Strikes and Demonstrations

Occasionally, strikes or protests may occur in Peru, which can affect roads or train schedules. In such situations, Cusco Journeys will make every effort to maintain your itinerary or adjust departure times if needed.

Above all, your safety is our top priority, and all decisions will be made accordingly.

Lost Objects

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. Therefore, please be mindful of where you leave your items and double-check your belongings after each stop.

Avoid leaving anything unattended during the hike. Otherwise, it may be mistaken for lost property by other trekkers or staff.