Cusco Tours 5 Days / 4 Nights

Overview

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.

The itinerary also includes the Sacred Valley, Moray, and the Maras Salt Mines, giving you more time to explore the cultural and archaeological highlights of the Cusco region.

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

• Explore Cusco and discover its most important Inca and colonial landmarks.
• Discover Qoricancha, the Temple of the Sun, and the impressive archaeological circuit surrounding Cusco.
• Explore Pisac Market and its archaeological site while experiencing traditional Andean culture.
• Visit Ollantaytambo and admire its remarkable terraces, temples, and Inca engineering.
• Travel by train through the spectacular Andes to Aguas Calientes.
• Discover Machu Picchu with a professional guide and explore its temples, terraces, and royal residences.
• Explore the extraordinary circular terraces of Moray and learn about their agricultural significance.
• Visit the Maras Salt Mines and discover the traditional salt-making practices that continue in the Andes.

Cusco Tours at a Glance

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco – City Tour – Qoricancha – Sacsayhuaman – Qenqo – 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, including its market and ruins, followed by lunch in Urubamba. Then explore Ollantaytambo before taking the train to Aguas Calientes for the night.

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 its agricultural terraces, temples, and royal residences. Afterward, return to Aguas Calientes and take the afternoon train to Ollantaytambo before continuing to Cusco by vehicle.

Day 4: Maras – Moray – Salt Mines – Cusco

Travel through the Andean countryside to Maras and enjoy views of the Cordillera Vilcanota and snow-capped peaks. Explore the Moray archaeological terraces and the Maras Salt Mines before returning 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.

Why Choose This Tour

• Experience Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu in one complete 5-day journey.
• Explore both famous Inca landmarks and lesser-known archaeological treasures.
• Discover Moray and the Maras Salt Mines, two unique destinations often missed on shorter packages.
• Enjoy a scenic train journey through the dramatic landscapes of the Sacred Valley.
• Stay overnight in Aguas Calientes before your Machu Picchu experience.
• Combine archaeology, Andean culture, traditional communities, and spectacular mountain scenery.
• Choose from group or private service categories according to your preferred travel style.
• Enjoy a balanced itinerary that gives you more time to discover Cusco beyond Machu Picchu.

Detailed Itinerary – Cusco Tours 5 Days 4 Nights

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco & City Tour.

Highlight of the Day: Discover the most important Inca and colonial landmarks in Cusco, including Qoricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay.

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.

Highlight of the Day: Explore Pisac and Ollantaytambo before traveling by train through the Andes 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

Highlight of the Day: Explore Machu Picchu early with a professional guide before returning to Cusco by train and private transportation.

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.

Return to Cusco

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

Highlight of the Day: Discover Moray’s extraordinary circular terraces and the traditional Maras Salt Mines surrounded by spectacular Andean scenery.

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, your guide and driver will pick you up around 8:20 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.

Highlight of the Day: Complete your Cusco experience with a convenient airport transfer for your onward journey.

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

• 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 and all scheduled attractions (except Cusco Cathedral).
• English speaking guide for all scheduled tours.
• Accommodation 1 night in Aguas Calientes (breakfast included).
• Accommodation 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 (20 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.

🎒 What to Bring

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

Our Cusco Tours 5 Days 4 Nights offers different service categories to match different travel styles, comfort levels, and budgets. Standard and Superior are group services, while First Class and Luxury are private services with greater flexibility and personalized attention.

Hotel Categories

• Standard ⭐⭐: Budget-friendly group tours, ideal for social travelers.
• Superior ⭐⭐⭐ (Most Popular): More comfortable group tours with immersive experiences and well-organized services.
• First Class ⭐⭐⭐⭐: Private tours with flexible schedules and personalized service.
• Luxury ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Premium private tours with top accommodations and exclusive experiences.

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

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

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. A passport copy is required at the time of booking.
• Under 11 years old: USD $30 discount. 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.- Is the Cusco Tours 5 Days 4 Nights package worth it?

Yes. This itinerary is ideal for travelers who want more than a short Machu Picchu visit. You can explore Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Moray, and the Maras Salt Mines during one well-organized journey. It also gives you more time to experience the region’s history, culture, and spectacular Andean landscapes.

2.- What makes this 5-day Cusco tour different from a shorter Machu Picchu package?

A shorter package focuses mainly on Cusco and Machu Picchu. By adding two more days, this itinerary allows you to discover the Sacred Valley, Moray, and the Maras Salt Mines without rushing through the main attractions. As a result, you experience a broader part of the Cusco region.

3.- Is this tour suitable for travelers 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. Although no multi-day trek is required, you should feel comfortable walking on uneven surfaces and at high altitude. Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.

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

Your guided tour of Machu Picchu lasts approximately two hours. During this time, your guide will explain the main areas of the citadel and its historical importance. After the guided visit, you will have free time to enjoy the surroundings before returning to Aguas Calientes.

5.- Is the Sacred Valley worth visiting before Machu Picchu?

Absolutely. The Sacred Valley provides valuable historical and cultural context before your Machu Picchu experience. Pisac and Ollantaytambo also offer impressive examples of Inca architecture, agricultural terraces, and Andean traditions. The journey through the valley also adds spectacular mountain scenery to the experience.

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

Yes. The Cusco Tours 5 Days 4 Nights includes visits to both Moray and the Maras Salt Mines. Moray reveals the Incas’ remarkable agricultural knowledge, while the salt pools of Maras showcase a traditional practice that continues in the Andes today. Together, these sites add a different perspective to your Cusco experience.

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

Yes. You can request Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain as an optional addition to your Machu Picchu visit. Each hike requires a separate entrance permit and advance reservation because availability is limited. The current optional price is US$75 per person.

8.- Which service category is best for my trip?

Standard and Superior are group services, while First Class and Luxury are private options. Standard is a practical choice for travelers seeking value, while Superior offers additional comfort. First Class and Luxury provide greater privacy, flexibility, and personalized service.

9.- Is five days enough to experience Cusco and Machu Picchu?

Yes. Five days provide a balanced amount of time to explore the main highlights without limiting the experience to Machu Picchu alone. You can discover Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Moray, and the Maras Salt Mines while maintaining a comfortable pace throughout the journey.

10.- How early should I book Cusco Tours 5 Days 4 Nights?

We recommend booking 3 to 4 months in advance, especially if you have a preferred Machu Picchu entrance time or circuit. Early booking gives you a better opportunity to secure your preferred travel dates, train services, and Machu Picchu tickets. Availability can become limited during periods of high demand.