General Description
Day 1: Reception in Cusco
Arrival in Cusco – transfer to your hotel.
City tour option in Lima if you arrive in the morning.
Day 2: Train ride + Machu Picchu, one of the 7 wonders.
Train ride from Ollanta to Aguas Calientes.
Visit Machu Picchu with your private guide.
Return to Cusco in the afternoon.
Day 3: Transfer from your hotel to the airport in Cusco.
We return home with the most memorable memories.
Itinerary
Day 1: Reception in Cusco.
Welcome to the historic capital of Peru! You’ve arrived in the historic capital of the Inca Empire, a place full of culture, traditions, and breathtaking landscapes. Enjoy its cobblestone streets, exquisite cuisine, and the warmth of its people. Our staff will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Along the way, they will give you tips and advice on how to deal with altitude sickness. This afternoon will be free for you to acclimatize and rest. Later, we recommend visiting the Qosqo Native American Art Center to observe the typical dances of Cusco.
Day 2: Fulfilling your dreams: Machu Picchu, one of the 7 Wonders of the World
The long-awaited moment has finally arrived. We wake up early, have breakfast at the hotel, and head directly to the train station to begin our adventure on a picturesque train with breathtaking views of valleys, mountains, and magical sites en route to Machu Picchu. Here, our guide will be waiting for you at the train station to escort you from there to the buses. After 30 minutes on board the transport that will finally take us to Machu Picchu, we will disembark and finally arrive at the entrance to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. You will have a private guided tour where you can discover the mysteries that this special place in the world holds, recharge your batteries, and visit viewpoints, temples, and the most important sites depending on the route you choose. After marveling at the beauty of this imposing human work, we will descend to Aguas Calientes or Machu Picchu Pueblo to enjoy free time, have lunch (not included), and rest before boarding the return train. At the scheduled time, we will take the return train to Ollantaytambo and then travel to Cusco in our private transport. We will arrive in the afternoon to enjoy our hotel in Cusco.
Day 3: Time to go home // Movilidad will transfer you to the airport
Happy after having enjoyed an extraordinary adventure, it is time to say goodbye to Cusco. After breakfast, we will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure time, depending on your flight schedule.
Inclusions
At GT Perú Travel, the included and excluded services are detailed in all tour itineraries listed on our website. We handle all logistics; we just ask that you pay attention to the details so you don’t miss anything. Some elements may vary for specific programs, so please read carefully before booking with us.
Included
- Hotel night in Cusco
- Depending on your international flight arrival time, a host will assist you with currency exchange, SIM card or data chip purchases, restaurant recommendations, and reservations.
- Round-trip CONSETTUR bus ticket
- Private guide for Machu Picchu
- Private transfer (CUSCO – OLLANTAYTAMBO – CUSCO) for the visit to Machu Picchu
Not included - Meals not specified
- Tips for our staff: Tipping is customary on any excursion to Machu Picchu.
- Additional costs or delays beyond our control.
- Early check-in – Late check-out from the hotel.
Extra - Maras and Moray Tour (USD 25 PER PERSON) If you want to take advantage of your free day on the 7th day, you can take a half-day tour to visit the Inca agricultural laboratories of Moray and the impressive Maras Salt Mines.
- Sacred Valley Tour (USD 45 PER PERSON) If you want to take advantage of the day, you can take a full-day tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, where you will visit Pisac, with its incredible archaeological site and artisan market, and Urubamba, where you can enjoy an Andean buffet lunch. This tour will allow you to experience the beauty of the Andean landscapes and Inca history.
- South Valley Tour (USD 40 PER PERSON) If you prefer a less crowded but equally fascinating experience, you can explore the South Valley of Cusco on a half-day tour. You’ll visit Tipón, an impressive complex of Inca terraces and water channels; Pikillacta, an ancient pre-Inca city of the Wari culture; and Andahuaylillas, home to the “Sistine Chapel of the Americas,” famous for its colonial paintings.
Travel Tips
Physical Challenge:
The hike to Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lagoon involves a steep path and a very early start. Prepare for a moderate physical challenge. Follow your guide’s advice on which foods are suitable and which are not. You can train in your hometown with a few short hikes at least two days a week.
Hiking and Exploring:
A full-day hike involves a lot of hiking and exploring; wear comfortable clothing, hats, and comfortable shoes, and enjoy a full-day adventure.
Packing Guide:
The clothing and equipment you’ll need depends on the tour and the time of year you travel. In general, we recommend packing light, comfortable clothing for the day, a jacket or sweater for cool evenings, comfortable hiking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle.
Documentation:
Passport and Visa: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from your planned departure date. Citizens of many countries, including the US, Canada, the UK, and most of Europe, do not need a visa for tourist visits to Peru for up to 90 days. Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and any high-altitude trekking activities. It is not mandatory for this trip, but we STRONGLY recommend having it in case you need it. Please check the expiration date and restrictions carefully.
Vaccinations:
Consult with your healthcare provider about recommended vaccinations before traveling to Peru, especially to high-altitude regions or the jungle, where the yellow fever vaccine is recommended.
Health Care
Altitude Concerns: Some parts of the itinerary exceed altitudes, which can be risky. Take precautions and watch for symptoms of altitude sickness; it is recommended to seek medical advice beforehand, especially if you have pre-existing conditions, heart problems, or are overweight. Be aware of altitude changes, especially during treks and stays at high altitudes. Follow the instructions provided regarding altitude sickness. If you feel it’s really severe, you can ask your doctor for some pills or simply drink coca tea—it always helps! Health Precautions: Follow the guide’s recommendations and let them know if you have any heart problems or experience cardiac arrest. It’s very important to report this so they can take appropriate precautions. Bring all necessary medications (consult your doctor), insect repellent, and a basic first aid kit.
Physical Preparation:
Some activities require physical fitness; make sure you’re adequately prepared for hikes, walks, and adventure activities. Don’t forget to hike before traveling to Peru; this will help you be better prepared.
This package is for me
Family-Friendly:
This tour offers various family-friendly activities. Some activities involve higher altitudes and physical demands, so it’s important to know your limits and not push yourself too hard. The Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lagoon activities are the most challenging. If you have difficulty walking, you can consider renting horses to get to the sites.
Appropriate Ages:
Many parts of the itinerary are family-friendly and welcome children of all ages. However, some activities, such as the Rainbow Mountain hike, involve moderate physical activity and may be more suitable for older children or those comfortable with hiking. Horses can be rented to assist you on the hike.
Food and Drink
Peruvian Dishes: Peru is famous for its varied and especially tasty cuisine. Be sure to try seafood dishes such as ceviche (raw fish marinated in lemon juice), lomo saltado (sautéed beef), and causa limeña (mashed potatoes). Try local dishes such as chiri uchú, the signature dish of Cusco cuisine. If you enjoy eating at street/fast food stalls or on the go, make sure they are always safe and hygienic, as a bad choice could ruin your trip.
Pisco Sour: A popular Peruvian cocktail made with pisco (grape brandy), lemon juice, simple syrup, egg white, and bitters. It’s a must-try and perfectly reflects Peru’s culinary culture.
Altitude and Diet: At higher altitudes, you may be offered lighter meals, such as chicken soup, for the first few days. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially at higher altitudes.
Vegetarian/Vegan Options: While Peruvian cuisine is primarily based on meat and seafood, many places offer vegetarian and vegan dishes. Inform your guides or restaurants in advance of any dietary restrictions or food allergies, and they will often accommodate your needs.
Culture:
Handicrafts: Each place has its own advantages. Remember to bring cash, preferably in Peruvian soles, to buy souvenirs. Many places already accept cards, but cash is the most effective method of payment in places where there is no signal.
Machu Picchu “Classic View”: At Machu Picchu, we must keep in mind that in Peru we have two seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. Machu Picchu is located in the jungle at 2,500 meters above sea level. This can sometimes make it appear cloudy in the mornings, or during the rainy season it could be covered in fog, but this rarely happens.
Tipping culture: Tipping rules in Peru for tour guides, drivers, and other service providers are not fixed. We always recommend giving personal recognition, but it is not mandatory; it depends on your willingness and satisfaction with them.
Climate:
Climate Variation: The climate can vary by region; be sure to bring appropriate clothing for different climates, especially for different altitudes, such as the Rainbow Mountains or the winter months, which are May, June, and July, which are the coldest in our region.
Seasons in Cusco: Cusco has two specific seasons: the rainy season (November to March) and the dry season (April to October). The dry season in June, July, and August is the coldest.
Communication
Language: In Peru, the official language is Spanish and Quechua, but in tourist destinations like Cusco, many people speak English because of their tourism jobs.
Connectivity: In cities like Lima and Cusco, you will find good internet connectivity. However, in more remote areas, such as the Andes or while hiking, you should keep in mind that we will not be connected to Wi-Fi or the internet. Expect limited or no internet access on some routes, such as Rainbow Mountain.
What to Bring: Don’t forget to pack your essentials for this package. For Lima:
- Light, cool clothing for the warm weather.
- Comfortable shoes for walking around the city.
- Sunscreen and a hat for sun protection.
- Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
- Camera or cell phone to capture moments.
- Reusable water bottle.
- Small backpack to carry your belongings during the day.
For Ica – Paracas: - Light, comfortable clothing for the warm weather.
- Sunscreen and a hat for sun protection.
- Bandanas for sand protection.
- Sunglasses and comfortable sandals.
- Camera or cell phone to take pictures of the coastal landscapes.
- Reusable water bottle
- Small backpack to carry your belongings during the day.
For the city of Cusco: - Comfortable clothing appropriate for the weather.
- Comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Warm jacket
- Rain poncho or umbrella
- Camera or cell phone to take pictures of the historic city.
- Reusable water bottle
- Small backpack to carry your belongings during the day.
For Machu Picchu: - Passport or ID
- Comfortable, lightweight clothing for hiking.
- Sturdy hiking shoes
- Hat or cap and sunscreen.
- Rain jacket or umbrella in case of rain.
- Reusable water bottle
- Camera or cell phone to capture memories
- Energy-boosting snacks
- Small backpack to carry your belongings
- Sunscreen
For hiking in the Rainbow Mountains and Humantay Lagoon: - Layered clothing: In Cusco, temperatures can vary drastically, especially in the mountains. Bring breathable, lightweight clothing that you can add or remove depending on the weather.
- Backpack: A comfortable one to carry your belongings.
- Fully charged camera and cell phones.
- Trekking boots: It is very important to wear appropriate footwear, preferably waterproof and with good grip.
- Sun protection: The sun can be very strong, especially at high altitudes, so bring a high-factor sunscreen and a hat or cap.
- Raincoat: The rainy season (November to March) can be unpredictable, so a raincoat or cape is essential.
- Trekking poles: Highly recommended for the mountains and lagoon.
- Bring water: The trails can be long, so make sure you bring enough water. There are refill options on some trails, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.
- Energy snacks: Nuts, cereal bars, and chocolate are excellent options to maintain your energy levels during the hike.
- Avoid overeating before the hike: Eating a light meal will help you feel more comfortable while trekking.