Cusco Tours & Machu Picchu 4 Days / 3 Nights

Overview

Our Cusco Tours 4 Days 3 Nights is designed for travelers who want to experience Peru’s most important destinations within a short time without missing the country’s cultural and archaeological highlights.

Explore the former capital of the Inca Empire, visit traditional Andean communities, and discover the remarkable engineering and history that continue to attract visitors from around the world.

Travel across the Sacred Valley, explore well-preserved archaeological sites, and enjoy a guided visit to Machu Picchu, one of the world’s most important cultural landmarks. Throughout the journey, experienced local guides provide valuable insight into Inca history, architecture, customs, and daily life, creating a well-rounded travel experience.

Highlights

• Explore the historic center of Cusco and its most significant Inca and colonial landmarks.
• Visit Qoricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay.
• Discover the colorful handicraft market of Pisac and its surrounding archaeological site.
• Explore the impressive fortress and terraces of Ollantaytambo.
• Travel through the Sacred Valley with panoramic views of mountains, rivers, and agricultural terraces.
• Enjoy a scenic train journey to Aguas Calientes before visiting Machu Picchu.
• Explore Machu Picchu with a professional guide while learning about its history and architecture.
• Experience Andean culture through local traditions, landscapes, and historic communities.

Cusco Tours at a Glance

Day 1: Cusco – Qoricancha – Sacsayhuaman – Tambomachay

Arrive in Cusco and transfer to your hotel. Explore the city’s historic center, including Qoricancha and the nearby Inca archaeological sites of Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay. Learn about the history, architecture, and cultural importance of the former capital of the Inca Empire.

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

Travel through the Sacred Valley, stopping at the traditional Pisac Market and the archaeological site of Ollantaytambo. Admire impressive agricultural terraces and mountain scenery before boarding the train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

Day 3: Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

Take the early bus to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of the Inca citadel. Visit its temples, terraces, ceremonial areas, and panoramic viewpoints before returning by train to Ollantaytambo and continuing to Cusco.

Day 4: Cusco – Airport Transfer

Enjoy your final morning in Cusco before your airport transfer. This marks the end of your Cusco travel itinerary, a journey through the core of Peru’s historical and archaeological heritage. Depending on your departure time, you may have the opportunity to explore the city or shop for last-minute souvenirs before your transfer to Cusco Airport.

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.

Why Choose This Tour

• Visit Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu in one well-organized itinerary.
• Explore Peru’s leading archaeological sites with experienced local guides.
• Enjoy comfortable transportation, train travel, and coordinated logistics throughout the tour.
• Learn about Inca history, architecture, and Andean traditions from knowledgeable professionals.
• Experience authentic local markets, mountain scenery, and historic villages.
• Travel with a balanced itinerary that combines cultural visits and free time.
• Suitable for first-time visitors looking for Peru’s most important attractions.
• Operated by Cusco Journeys with professional service and personalized assistance.

Detailed Itinerary

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

Highlight of the Day: Explore Cusco’s most important Inca and colonial landmarks while discovering the history, architecture, and traditions of the former Inca capital.

Upon your arrival at Cusco Airport, our representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, meet your guide for a short briefing about your Cusco Tours 4 Days 3 Nights itinerary and receive helpful information for the days ahead. Take time to adjust to Cusco’s altitude before beginning your afternoon city tour.

At 12:00 p.m., your guide will meet you at the hotel to begin exploring the historic center of Cusco. Visit the Plaza de Armas and admire the exterior of the Cathedral (entrance not included).

Continue along one of the original Inca streets to Qoricancha, once the most important religious sanctuary of the Inca Empire, where precisely carved Inca stonework blends with Spanish colonial architecture.

A short 25-minute drive takes you to Sacsayhuaman, famous for its enormous stone walls and panoramic views of Cusco. Continue to Qenqo, an important ceremonial site with carved rock formations and underground passages, followed by Puca Pucara, believed to have served as a military checkpoint.

The tour concludes at Tambomachay, known for its finely built water channels and ceremonial fountains that continue to flow throughout the year.

After the tour, return to Cusco’s historic center. Guests on a private service may also choose to be dropped off directly at their hotel.

Optional: Enjoy a traditional buffet dinner with a folkloric dance performance for an additional US$39 per person.

• Overnight: Cusco
• Meals Included: None
• Entrance Tickets: Included

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

Highlight of the Day: Explore the Sacred Valley’s most important archaeological sites, traditional markets, and scenic landscapes before traveling to Aguas Calientes.

After breakfast, depart from Cusco and travel through the Sacred Valley, a region known for its fertile farmland, traditional villages, and remarkable archaeological heritage. Surrounded by mountains and crossed by the Urubamba River, the valley has preserved its cultural traditions and agricultural importance since Inca times.

First, visit Pisac, where you’ll explore its famous artisan market featuring alpaca textiles, silver jewelry, ceramics, woven fabrics, and handmade souvenirs. On Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, artisans from nearby communities gather to offer a wider selection of traditional products. If time permits, you’ll also enjoy views of the archaeological terraces overlooking the town.

Next, continue to Urubamba for a buffet lunch before visiting Ollantaytambo, one of the oldest continuously inhabited towns in Peru. Explore its impressive archaeological complex, where terraces, temples, and massive stone structures showcase the engineering skills of the Inca civilization while offering panoramic views across the valley.

Finally, board the train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Follow the Urubamba River through changing mountain scenery before arriving at your hotel, where you’ll prepare for the following day’s guided visit to the Inca citadel.

• Overnight: Aguas Calientes
• Meals Included: Breakfast and Buffet Lunch
• Entrance Tickets: Included

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

Highlight of the Day: Explore Machu Picchu with an expert guide while discovering its temples, terraces, and remarkable Inca engineering.

Start your day early with breakfast at your hotel before boarding one of the first buses to Machu Picchu. Arriving early allows you to enjoy the archaeological sanctuary in the quieter morning hours before beginning your guided visit.

Your guide will lead a two-hour tour through the most important sectors of Machu Picchu, including its agricultural terraces, ceremonial temples, residential areas, and strategic viewpoints. Learn about the history, architecture, and purpose of the Inca citadel while discovering the engineering techniques that made this UNESCO World Heritage Site one of the world’s most significant archaeological destinations.

After the guided tour, return by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have free time for lunch (not included). Depending on your train departure, you may explore the town, visit the local handicraft market, relax in the hot springs, or visit the museum.

In the afternoon, board the train to Ollantaytambo, following the scenic course of the Urubamba River through the Sacred Valley. Upon arrival, our transportation will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel in Cusco.

Important: Machu Picchu is different from Huayna Picchu Mountain and Machu Picchu Mountain. Both hikes require separate entrance permits with limited daily availability. If you would like to include either hike, please let us know in advance so we can arrange the corresponding permit, subject to availability.

• Overnight: Cusco
• Meals Included: Breakfast
• Entrance Tickets: Included

Day 4: Cusco – Airport Transfer

Highlight of the Day: Enjoy your final morning in Cusco before your airport transfer.

After breakfast, enjoy some free time according to your flight schedule before we transfer you to Cusco Airport. Finally, your Cusco Tours 4 Days 3 Nights experience comes to an end. If you’d like to continue exploring Peru, we can help you arrange additional tours or customize another itinerary to match your travel plans.

Please note: We can also arrange your return flight to Lima upon request. Simply let us know before your departure if you’d like us to organize your flight.

• Overnight: None
• Meals Included: Breakfast

✅ Included

• Round-trip airport transfers between Cusco Airport and your hotel.
• Hotel and train station transfers throughout the tour.
• Train tickets between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes.
• Bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
• Transportation for all scheduled tours.
• Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu and all attractions included in the itinerary (except Cusco Cathedral).
• Professional English-speaking guide for all scheduled tours.
• 2 nights accommodation in Cusco with daily breakfast.
• 1 night accommodation in Aguas Calientes with breakfast.
• Buffet lunch in the Sacred Valley.
• First aid kit and emergency oxygen.
• Permanent travel assistance throughout your tour.

❌ Not Included

• Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain entrance ticket (US$75 per person).
• Domestic and international flights.
• Meals not specified in the itinerary.
• Travel insurance.
• Personal medications, including medication for altitude sickness.
• Entrance to the hot springs in Aguas Calientes (optional – S/10 per person).
• Excess baggage charges.
• Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and bottled mineral water.
• Snacks.
• Laundry service.
• National and international telephone calls.
• Personal expenses.
• Tips for guides and drivers (optional).

🎒 What to Bring

Packing properly for your Cusco Tours 4 Days 3 Nights will help you enjoy your journey comfortably in different weather conditions. We recommend bringing the following items:

• Original passport.
• Original International Student Identity Card (ISIC), if applicable.
• Travel insurance documents.
• Rain poncho.
• Warm jacket or fleece.
• Comfortable layered clothing.
• Comfortable walking shoes.
• Lightweight shoes suitable for walking in Machu Picchu.
• Hat or cap.
• Sunglasses.
• Sunscreen.
• Reusable water bottle.
• Insect repellent.
• Camera or smartphone.
• Personal toiletries.
• Small day backpack.
• Water and snacks.
• Slippers or sandals.
• Swimsuit for the hot springs in Aguas Calientes.
• Earplugs (optional).
• Extra cash for personal expenses.

💰 Prices

Our Cusco Tours 4 Days 3 Nights operates with guaranteed departures throughout the year, allowing you to choose the travel date that best fits your schedule. Whether you are traveling solo, with family, or in a group, we offer flexible hotel categories to match your travel style and budget.

Our prices are flexible and can be customized according to your travel dates, preferred hotel category, group size, and optional upgrades. Contact Cusco Journeys today to receive a personalized quotation tailored to your travel plans.

Hotel Categories

• Standard ⭐⭐: Comfortable group tour featuring carefully selected hotels with private rooms, private bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and all the essential amenities for an enjoyable and budget-friendly stay.
• Superior ⭐⭐⭐ (Most Popular): Our most popular group tour category, offering upgraded hotels, excellent locations, enhanced comfort, and outstanding value throughout your journey.
• First Class ⭐⭐⭐⭐: Premium private tour with superior hotels, personalized service, upgraded amenities, and greater flexibility during your trip.
• Luxury ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Exclusive private tour featuring Peru’s finest luxury hotels, premium services, personalized attention, and a fully customized travel experience. Please contact us for a personalized quotation.

Booking and Payment

To confirm your reservation, a 40% deposit is required.

• Deposit: 40% of the total tour price is required to secure your booking.
• Balance: The remaining balance must be paid 15 days before departure.

We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Diners Club, PayPal, and bank transfers. Please note that online credit card and PayPal payments are subject to a 5% service fee.

Student and Child Discounts

• Ages 18 to 25: US$25 discount with a valid International Student Identity Card (ISIC). The card must include the student’s name, university, photograph, and expiration date. A copy of the card is required at the time of booking.
• Under 18 years old: US$25 discount. Please send us a copy of the passport at the time of booking.
• Under 11 years old: US$30 discount. Please send us a copy of the passport at the time of booking.

Optional Extras (Advance Reservation Required)

• Machu Picchu Mountain: US$75 per person.
• Huayna Picchu Mountain: US$75 per person.
• Vistadome Train Upgrade (Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo): US$65 per person, one way. (Available for Standard and Superior hotel categories.)
• Domestic Flights (Lima – Cusco – Lima): Available upon request. Airfares vary according to the travel season and airline availability. Cusco Journeys can arrange your flights as part of your travel package.

5 Star Hotels4 Star Hotels3 Star Hotels

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Cusco Tours 4 Days 3 Nights

1.- Is Cusco Tours 4 Days 3 Nights worth it for first-time visitors to Peru?

Absolutely. This itinerary combines Cusco’s most important archaeological sites, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu in just four days. It offers an excellent balance of history, culture, scenic landscapes, and free time, making it one of the best introductions to Peru for first-time visitors.

2.- Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes. This tour is considered easy to moderate and is suitable for most travelers with a reasonable level of fitness. The itinerary includes guided sightseeing and short walks at archaeological sites without requiring strenuous trekking or hiking experience.

3.- What is the best time of year to visit Cusco and Machu Picchu?

The tour operates throughout the year. The dry season, from April to October, offers clear skies and excellent hiking conditions, while the rainy season, from November to March, provides greener landscapes and fewer visitors at many attractions.

4.- How far in advance should I book this tour?

We recommend booking at least one to three months in advance, especially during the high season from May to September. Early reservations help secure Machu Picchu entrance tickets, train schedules, and your preferred hotel category.

5.- Can I customize the itinerary?

Yes. We can personalize your trip by upgrading hotels, adding extra nights, arranging private services, or including additional destinations such as Rainbow Mountain, Humantay Lake, or the Sacred Valley extension according to your travel preferences.

6.-Can I upgrade to the Vistadome train?

Yes. You can upgrade to the Vistadome train for a more comfortable and scenic journey through the Sacred Valley. Large panoramic windows, onboard entertainment, and spectacular mountain views make it one of the most popular optional upgrades.

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

Yes. Both mountains can be added to your reservation, subject to availability. Since entrance permits are limited and often sell out several months in advance, we recommend requesting them when confirming your booking.

8.- Will I have enough time to explore Machu Picchu?

Yes. The itinerary includes a professionally guided tour of Machu Picchu, followed by free time depending on your entrance schedule. This allows you to appreciate the site’s history while also taking photographs and enjoying the surrounding scenery.

9.- Is altitude sickness a concern during this tour?

Cusco is located at a high altitude, so some travelers may experience mild symptoms during their first day. The itinerary is designed to help you acclimatize gradually before visiting higher attractions, and staying hydrated and taking it easy on arrival is highly recommended.

10.- Why choose Cusco Journeys for this tour?

Cusco Journeys combines experienced local guides, carefully planned itineraries, quality accommodations, reliable transportation, and personalized customer service. Our goal is to provide a well-organized travel experience that allows you to discover Peru comfortably, safely, and with confidence.

Travel Information

Prepare for Your Journey with Cusco Journeys

At Cusco Journeys, we want your trip through Peru to be comfortable, safe, and well organized. Please take a few minutes to read the following information before your tour begins. These recommendations will help you prepare for your journey, understand how our services operate, and make the most of your experience in Cusco and Machu Picchu.

By reviewing these important details in advance, you’ll know what to expect before, during, and after your tour, allowing you to travel with greater confidence and peace of mind.

Pre-Tour Briefing

All pre-tour briefings are held at your hotel in Cusco after your arrival. Once your reservation is confirmed, you’ll also receive your detailed itinerary and travel information by email.

During the briefing, your guide will explain the itinerary, deliver your entrance tickets and transportation details, answer any questions, and confirm your pick-up time for the following day.

Final Balance Payment

If you have an outstanding balance, please complete your payment at least two days before your tour begins. Reservations cannot be finalized until the remaining balance has been paid.

Whenever possible, we recommend paying the balance in cash (USD or Peruvian Soles) during your briefing. Several ATMs are available along Avenida El Sol where both currencies can be withdrawn.

Credit cards, debit cards, and PayPal are also accepted either online or in person. Please note that payments made through Niubiz or PayPal are subject to a 5% service fee. We do not accept personal or traveler’s checks.

Luggage Storage

If you have luggage that you won’t need during your tour, you may store it free of charge at our office or at your hotel. Please arrange this during your briefing or contact us before your departure.

We recommend carrying only a small daypack during your excursion. Avoid leaving valuables inside stored luggage. Whenever possible, use your hotel’s safety deposit box and request a receipt for valuable items if required by your travel insurance.

Passport Requirements

Your original passport is required for entry to Machu Picchu and must match the passport information provided during your reservation.

If you renew or replace your passport after booking, please notify us immediately so we can update your entrance tickets whenever regulations allow. We also recommend carrying a digital copy of your passport throughout your trip.

Machu Picchu Entrance Circuits

Machu Picchu operates with fixed entrance times and designated visitor circuits established by the Peruvian authorities to protect the archaeological site.

Main Visitor Circuits

• Circuit 1: Panoramic viewpoints and upper terraces.
• Circuit 2: Main archaeological sector of the citadel.
• Circuit 3: Lower terraces and agricultural area.

Most of our tours include the circuit assigned by the Ministry of Culture according to ticket availability. Entry times are generally scheduled between 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m., although they may vary depending on availability and government regulations.

Once you leave Machu Picchu, re-entry is not permitted. If you’d like to visit another circuit or hike one of the mountains, an additional entrance ticket is required and is subject to availability.

Hotel Pick-Up

Complimentary pick-up is available from hotels located within Cusco’s Historic Center.

Your exact pick-up time will be confirmed during the briefing or one day before your tour. Depending on traffic conditions and hotel locations, pick-up times may vary by approximately 30 to 45 minutes.

Some streets in Cusco are too narrow for vehicle access. If your accommodation is located in one of these areas, we’ll arrange the nearest convenient meeting point.

Return from Machu Picchu

After your visit to Machu Picchu, you’ll take the shuttle bus back to Aguas Calientes. Bus services operate continuously, and boarding is organized on a first-come, first-served basis.

From Aguas Calientes, you’ll travel by train to Ollantaytambo, where our representative will meet you for the transfer back to Cusco. Please arrive at the train station at least 30 minutes before departure. The complete return journey usually takes around four hours.

Weather and Clothing

Cusco has two distinct seasons. The dry season (April to October) usually offers sunny days and cool nights, while the rainy season (November to March) brings occasional afternoon showers.

We recommend wearing layered clothing throughout the year, as temperatures can change significantly between the morning, afternoon, and evening. A waterproof jacket is advisable during the rainy season.

Group Tours

Our group tours welcome travelers of different ages and fitness levels. Everyone is encouraged to explore at a comfortable pace while following the guide’s instructions throughout the journey.

Occasionally, minor schedule adjustments may be necessary due to weather conditions, operational requirements, or regulations. If this occurs, your guide will keep the group informed and ensure the best possible experience.

Strikes and Demonstrations

Although uncommon, strikes or demonstrations may occasionally affect transportation services in Peru. Should this happen, Cusco Journeys will make every reasonable effort to maintain your itinerary or provide suitable alternatives whenever possible.

Your safety and well-being remain our highest priorities, and any operational decisions will always be made with your best interests in mind.

Lost and Found

Please take responsibility for your personal belongings throughout the tour. Before leaving any vehicle, restaurant, hotel, or attraction, make sure you have all your personal items with you.

Any belongings found by our staff will be kept at our office whenever possible. However, Cusco Journeys cannot accept responsibility for personal items that are lost, forgotten, or left unattended during the tour.