Cusco Tours 3 Days / 2 Nights

Experience the ultimate Peruvian adventure with our exclusive Cusco City and Machu Picchu Tours. Immerse yourself in the ancient history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture of the region with our expertly crafted itinerary.

Discover the highlights of Cusco, the former Inca capital, and learn about the rich history and traditions of the local people. Finally, the tour culminates with a visit to Machu Picchu, the iconic lost city of the Incas. 

This unforgettable trip to Cusco and Machu Picchu is ideal for those seeking authentic Peruvian tours. With breathtaking views and a rich cultural heritage, our Machu Picchu tours offer an immersive experience in the heart of the Andes.

• Tour Location: Cusco City & Machu Picchu among other impressive Inca historical sites.
• Tour Type: Half day city tour and Machu Picchu tours.
• Good For: Those who want to visit Machu Picchu without trekking.
• Difficulty: No trekking, but lots of walking.
• Highlights: Enjoy the best the region offers: Temple of the Sun, Sachsayhuaman, Machu Picchu and so much more.

By booking Cusco tours 3 Days 2 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.

Day by Day Experience

Day 1: Cusco Arrival – City Tour – Sacsayhuaman – Qenqo – Tambomachay – Puca Pucara

Begin your Cusco adventure exploring the top Inca archaeological sites and colonial landmarks. Visit the Cathedral of Cusco, Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun), and Sacsayhuaman with its massive stone walls. Continue to Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay, ancient Inca centers of ritual and water worship.

Day 2: Sacred Valley – Ollantaytambo – Machu Picchu – Cusco

Start early with a scenic drive to Ollantaytambo, then take the train through the Andes Mountains to Aguas Calientes. Continue to the Machu Picchu Sanctuary, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Explore the Temple of the Sun, Royal Palace and Temple of the Condor. Optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain offer panoramic views.

Day 3: Cusco – Domestic Flight – Lima.

Final day includes private transfer to the Cusco airport for your domestic flight. Optional extensions or customized itineraries are available for travelers wishing to continue exploring Peru’s cultural and natural highlights.

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.

Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive to Cusco – City Tour – Sacsayhuaman – Qenqo – Tambomachay – Puca Pucara.

Upon arrival in Cusco, you’ll be transferred to your hotel and meet your local guide for a detailed briefing about your Cusco Tours 3 Days 2 Nights program. Begin your adventure exploring the historic Inca Capital, known for its remarkable blend of Inca and colonial architecture.

Enjoy panoramic views of the city before spending your evening discovering Cusco’s vibrant streets, nightlife, and local cuisine. At 12:00 p.m., your guide will meet you at your hotel to begin the City Tour. Start at the Plaza de Armas, visiting the Cathedral of Cusco (not included), then walk through ancient Inca streets toward the Qoricancha – Temple of the Sun.

Here, you’ll see the contrast between Inca stonework and Spanish colonial construction, once the most important religious site of the Inca Empire.

Continue along Avenida El Sol to board your bus for a 25-minute drive to Sacsayhuaman, an impressive Inca fortress built with enormous stone blocks, each weighing up to 200 tons. After exploring, proceed to Qenqo, known for its ceremonial altars, and then to Puca Pucara, a small circular military site.

End the tour at Tambomachay, the Inca water temple, famous for its fine stone fountains believed to be used for purification rituals. The tour concludes in Cusco’s main square, or you’ll be returned to your hotel if on a private tour.

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

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

Day 2: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Cusco

Begin your Machu Picchu tour with an early pickup from your hotel in Cusco, followed by a scenic two-hour drive through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo. From here, board the train to Aguas Calientes, enjoying panoramic views of the Andes Mountains, cloud forests, and Inca agricultural terraces along the route.

Upon arrival, take a short bus ride to the entrance of the Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary. Accompanied by a certified guide, explore this ancient citadel on a two-hour guided tour visiting the Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Windows, Inca Palace, and Temple of the Condor, while uncovering the architectural mastery and history of the Inca civilization.

Adventurous travelers may opt for additional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views (advance booking required).

In the afternoon, return by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch or local shopping before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo. Private transport will take you to your hotel in Cusco, concluding a powerful and immersive journey through one of Peru’s most iconic destinations.

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

Day 3: 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

Included:

• Pre-tour briefing at your hotel.
• Round trip transfers between airport and hotel (Cusco).
• Round trip transfers between hotel and train station.
• 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.
• Guided tour in Machu Picchu Inca site.
• Accommodations 2 nights in Cusco (breakfast included).
• Active itinerary with unique cultural features.
• All local taxes.

Not Included:

• Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain Tickets (USD$ 75).
• Entrance to the Cusco Cathedral (40 Peruvian Soles).
• International and domestic flights.
• Travel Insurance.
• Meals not detailed in itinerary.
• Alcoholic drinks, soda or bottled mineral water.
• Hotel and train upgrades are available upon request.
• Airport taxes.
• Excess baggage.
• Tips for guides and drivers.

Cusco Tours 3 Days 2 Nights Packing List:

After spending a lot of time travelling around Cusco Tours 3 Days 2 Nights, we have come up with our definitive list of what to pack for a trip to Cusco & Machu Picchu.

• Original passport.
• Travel insurance.
• Rain poncho (plastic).
• Warm jacket or coat.
• Sunscreen.
• Cap or hat.
• Sunglasses.
• Extra clothing (including layers for changing weather conditions).
• Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers.
• Suitable shoes for walking in Machu Picchu.
• Water bottle.
• Insect repellent.
• Camera or smartphone for photos.
• Toiletries.
• Day pack.
• Ear plugs for sleeping comfort.
• Water and snacks.
• Slippers or sandals (for showers and Hot Springs).
• Bathing suit (for the Hot Springs in Aguas Calientes).
• Extra money.

Important Note About Cusco Journeys Service Categories:

1. Standard: Affordable group tours for a social and budget-friendly travel experience.
2. Superior: Comfortable group tours with well-organized itineraries and immersive experiences.
3. First Class: Exclusive private tours with personalized service and flexible itineraries.
4. Luxury: Premium private tours offering ultimate comfort, exclusivity, and tailor-made experiences.

Please: note that hotel reservations are subject to availability at the time of booking.

Discounts:

• 18 to 25 years old: $25 USD. Information required on student card: name of university, student name, photo of student, expiration date etc. A copy of the card is required at booking for government approval for discount.
• Under 18 years old: $25 USD. Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
• Under 11 years old: $30 USD.  Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.

Optional Extras (Need to Book in Advance):

• Machu Picchu Mountain climbing:  USD 75.00 (Need to book in advance).
• Huayna Picchu Mountain climbing: USD 75.00 (Need to book in advance).
• Vistadome Train Aguas Calientes-Cusco: USD65.00 – One Way (Need to book in advance, that is only for Standard and Supeior Class Packages).
• Flight Tickets:  Lima – Cusco – Lima to be quoted on the day of enquiry (prices vary from US$185 to US$399 per person depending on the season). can be booked by Cusco Journeys is you wish.

5 Star Hotels4 Star Hotels3 Star Hotels

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Cusco Tours 3 Days 2 Nights

1.- Is the guided tour of Machu Picchu included in this package?

Yes. The program includes the official entrance ticket, a certified guide, round-trip bus to the citadel, and round-trip train tickets—offering a more complete experience than a typical Machu Picchu one day tour.

2.- How does this itinerary differ from day trips from Cusco?

While day trips from Cusco visit Machu Picchu in just one day, this 3 Days / 2 Nights tour allows time for acclimatization, a detailed Cusco City Tour, and a more relaxed travel experience.

3. Can I add Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain to my visit?

Yes, you can add either hike with an additional cost of USD $75. Advanced booking is required due to limited availability.

4.- What attractions are included in the Day 1 City Tour?

You’ll visit the Plaza de Armas, Qoricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay. All entrance fees are included, except for the Cusco Cathedral.

5.- Are accommodations included in the tour?

Yes. The package includes 2 nights in a Cusco hotel with breakfast. Hotel upgrades are available upon request.

6.- Are airport–hotel transfers included?

Absolutely. Round-trip transfers between the Cusco airport and your hotel are included.

7.- What transportation is used to travel between Cusco and Machu Picchu?

The tour includes private transport to Ollantaytambo, a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, and a bus to the Machu Picchu entrance—ideal for travelers wanting comfort when visiting Cusco and Machu Picchu.

8.- What should I pack for this 3-day tour?

Bring your passport, rain poncho, warm layers, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, a day pack, insect repellent, water, and a camera.

9.- Are meals included in this package?

Breakfasts at the hotel are included. Other meals are not included, giving you freedom to explore local cuisine.

10.- Do I need to acclimatize before starting the tour?

It’s not mandatory, but the itinerary is designed with a gentle first-day program to help you adjust to Cusco’s altitude.

11.- Can you arrange my flight from Cusco to Lima at the end of the tour?

Yes. We can coordinate your domestic flight upon request.

12.- Is it possible to take this tour as a private experience?

Yes. A private version of the tour with exclusive transportation and flexible schedules is available.

Make the Most of Your Peru Adventure with Cusco Journeys

At Cusco Journeys, we’re committed to making your adventure in Peru memorable, safe, and easy to enjoy. 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.

Take a moment to read it carefully; 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, and you will also 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 to ensure you are 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. 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 for balance payments.

Can I store my luggage at your office?

Absolutely! During your trip, you may store your main luggage safely at our office (arrange it with us during your briefing or by email) or at your hotel, both free of charge.

Any items you won’t need during the trek can remain at your hotel — most hotels offer secure luggage storage. Please avoid 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 can 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 and ensure an enjoyable experience for all visitors.

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 1-3, 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 — re-entry is not allowed.

If you wish to explore another route 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. We recommend staying in the historic center for easier access. Our guide will confirm your pick-up time one day before the tour, but 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, and some hotels or Airbnbs may not have direct vehicle access. If your accommodation is in such an area, we’ll coordinate the closest possible meeting point for your convenience.

Return from Machu Picchu to Cusco

Returning from Machu Picchu involves several steps, but don’t worry — everything is included in your tour. After visiting Machu Picchu, you’ll take a 25-minute bus down to Aguas Calientes (buses operate on a first-come, first-served basis).

From there, you’ll board a train to Ollantaytambo; your guide will provide the tickets and indicate your departure time. Please arrive at the platform 30 minutes before departure.

The train ride takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes, followed by a 2-hour bus journey back to Cusco City.

Group Tours

Our group tours bring together travelers of different ages and fitness levels. Everyone can walk at their own pace, and our guide will manage the group so that all participants enjoy the experience comfortably.

If changes to the itinerary are needed, 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 these cases, Cusco Journeys will make every effort to maintain your itinerary or adjust departure times if needed. Your safety always comes first, and all decisions will be made to protect it.

Lost Objects

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. Please be mindful of where you leave your items and make sure to remove everything from our vans, tents, and restaurants after each stop. Avoid leaving anything unattended during the hike, as other trekkers or staff might mistake it for lost property.