5-Day City Package Cusco, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu

Exploring Peru’s Ancient Treasures in Five Days
This five-day package offers a well-rounded journey through Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and the iconic Machu Picchu, all for $693 per person. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll explore archaeological marvels like Sacsayhuaman, visit charming towns such as Chinchero and Ollantaytambo, and experience the magic of the Lost City of the Incas. The tour includes comfortable accommodations, daily breakfast, and transportation, making it a practical way to see the highlights of this incredible region.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances culture with breathtaking scenery. The detailed visits to archaeological sites reveal the impressive engineering skills of the Incas, while the scenic train ride to Machu Picchu offers unforgettable vistas. Plus, the small group size (max 10 travelers) ensures a more personalized experience, which makes all the difference when navigating busy sites or asking questions.

A possible consideration is the moderate physical activity involved, especially at high altitudes. Travelers should be prepared for some walking and be mindful of altitude sickness symptoms. Also, since the itinerary is tightly packed, those who prefer a more relaxed pace might find it a bit rushed.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience with a focus on history, culture, and nature—and who are comfortable with some walking and altitude. If you’re eager to see the highlights with expert insights, this package offers excellent value and memorable moments.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary covering Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu, ideal for first-time visitors.
• Expert guides like Rosell Toledo bring stories alive with detailed knowledge and enthusiasm.
• Small group size (max 10) ensures personalized attention and easier navigation.
• Includes accommodations, transportation, and entry tickets for a seamless experience.
• Highlights include iconic sites, scenic views, and charming towns in the Sacred Valley.
• Good value considering the number of sites visited, guided tours, and included amenities.

A Deep Dive into the 5-Day Tour Experience

Day 1: Arrival and Free Time in Cusco

Your adventure begins the moment you land in Cusco. The tour kicks off with a meet and greet at the airport, followed by a transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to relax or explore at your own pace. The itinerary offers a free afternoon to take optional tours, which is perfect if you want to get a head start on exploring this lively city on your own. Since admission to Cusco’s city center is free, you can wander the charming streets, soak in the vibrant atmosphere, or visit local markets.

Day 2: Sacsayhuaman and Surroundings

The highlight of this day is the excursion to Sacsayhuaman, a fortress with enormous stones that fit together with astonishing precision. We loved the way guides explain the significance of the site, and the peaceful atmosphere of the ruins makes it a great start to exploring Cusco’s ancient defenses. From here, your journey continues to Q’enqo, an ancient temple carved from a single rock, and Tambomachay, sacred fountains believed to have healing powers. The panoramic view from Puca Pucara, a watchtower, offers a fantastic photo opportunity.

The guide (like Rosell) will fill you in on the Inca ingenuity behind these sites, making the stones’ size and placement even more impressive. A visit to the Temple of the Sun, Korikancha, adds a layer of spiritual history to the day. This visit, about four hours long, gives a detailed look at Cusco’s archaeological richness.

Day 3: Sacred Valley — Chinchero, Moray, and Ollantaytambo

On the third day, you’ll venture into the Sacred Valley, a lush corridor dotted with Inca ruins, colorful towns, and traditional farms. The visit to Chinchero is especially charming—famous for its local women weaving with techniques dating back to the Incas. We appreciated the stop at a textile center, where you can see the ancient dyeing and weaving processes firsthand.

Next, the tour visits Moray, a striking archaeological site with circular terraces that resemble a giant microclimate laboratory. This site is believed to have been used for agricultural experiments, and guides like Rosell often provide fascinating explanations on Inca innovations.

The afternoon ends at Ollantaytambo, a living Inca town with narrow cobblestone streets and impressive ruins, including the Temple of the Ten Windows. The postcard views from the fortress are a highlight, and walking through this town gives you a genuine sense of living Inca heritage. The day concludes with an overnight stay in the Sacred Valley, which helps break up the travel and adds comfort to your experience.

Day 4: Machu Picchu — The Lost City

The day everyone dreams of, and it’s included here with a full guided tour of Machu Picchu. You’ll take a train from Ollantaytambo, enjoying scenic views of the Urubamba River and the lush landscape. Upon arrival, your guide will lead you through the most important areas of the site—terraces, ceremonial stones, and urban zones—giving insight into how the Incas built such a spectacular city at a high-altitude site.

We loved the way the guide explained the symmetry and engineering of Machu Picchu, and the delicious buffet lunch provides a welcome break amid the awe. The new visitor circuit helps manage crowds, so you’ll get a better experience and help preserve the site. The timing is carefully planned, but it’s good to be prepared for some walking and to wear comfortable shoes.

Day 5: Departure

Your last morning is free for any last-minute explorations or souvenirs before the transfer back to Cusco airport. The tour ends at the same meeting point where you started, making logistics straightforward.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

This package packs an incredible amount into just five days, with guided tours, entrance fees, accommodations, and transportation included. The advantage is the seamless coordination—no need to worry about booking individual tickets or figuring out transport logistics. Plus, the small group size ensures a more intimate experience, allowing you to ask questions and get personalized insights that larger tours may lack.

Plus, the knowledge and enthusiasm of guides like Rosell bring the sites to life. Reviews consistently praise their expertise, noting how guides “deeply know the history” and make the experience “spectacular.” The inclusion of delicious meals and well-chosen accommodations makes the trip not only educational but also comfortable.

The value for the price is evident when you consider the quality of access to major sites, guided explanations, and transportation. It’s a comprehensive package that appeals especially to travelers looking for a worry-free experience—no stress about logistics, just the joy of exploring.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for those who want a focused, guided experience covering the highlights of Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu without the hassle of planning each step. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate history, culture, and scenic beauty—and who don’t mind some walking and altitude. The small group setting is ideal for those seeking a more personal, engaging day-to-day experience.

If you’re a traveler who values expert guides that share detailed knowledge, and you’re eager to see iconic sites with convenience and comfort, this tour checks all the boxes. The price reflects the quality and inclusiveness of the experience, making it a great investment in your Peruvian adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is airport pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from Velazco Astete Airport in Cusco, making the start of your trip seamless.

How many days does the trip last?
The entire experience runs for about five days, including arrival, exploration, and departure.

Are accommodations included?
Yes, you stay three nights in Cusco and one in the Sacred Valley, with breakfast daily included.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Do I need to prepare for altitude sickness?
Yes, altitude sickness can affect travelers. It’s recommended to bring medication or consult your doctor before traveling.

Are meals included?
Breakfasts are included every day; two lunches are included—one during the Machu Picchu day with a buffet.

What sites are visited on Day 2?
Sacsayhuaman, Q’enqo, Tambomachay, Puca Pucara, and the Temple of the Sun.

Can I do optional tours?
Yes, Day 1 offers free time for optional excursions or exploring Cusco independently.

What is the recommended physical fitness level?
A moderate level of fitness is advised due to walking and high-altitude exposure.

What should I bring?
A rain jacket, hat, sunscreen, walking shoes, and some patience for busy sites.

To sum it up, this five-day package from VIPAC Travel offers a well-orchestrated journey into Peru’s most famous archaeological and scenic sites. It’s best for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided, and hassle-free experience that covers the highlights with excellent guides and good value. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or someone eager to tick Machu Picchu off your bucket list, this tour provides a solid, enjoyable foundation for exploring the heart of the Andes.