5 Day Tour to Sacred Valley Machu Picchu Maras and Moray

Experience the Best of Inca Peru in 5 Days

If you’ve ever dreamed of walking in the footsteps of the Incas, this 5-day tour to Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and some fascinating nearby sites offers a great way to see the highlights without feeling rushed. For $499 per person, you get a carefully curated journey that combines history, breathtaking scenery, and authentic Peruvian culture. It’s designed for travelers who want a balanced mix of guided sightseeing and free time to absorb the atmosphere and take photos.

Two things we especially like about this tour are the well-organized itinerary that covers both major landmarks and lesser-known gems, and the knowledgeable guides who bring the sites to life. We also appreciate the inclusion of train tickets and entrance fees, which means fewer surprises along the way.

A possible consideration? While the schedule is packed, some might find the early mornings and tight transitions a bit demanding, especially around Machu Picchu. But if you’re eager to maximize your time and enjoy a comprehensive experience, this tour offers excellent value for your money.

This experience suits travelers who are eager to see iconic sites like Machu Picchu but also want to explore the surrounding areas, including vibrant Cusco and the impressive salt mines of Maras. It’s particularly good for history buffs, first-time visitors, and those who appreciate guided insights paired with authentic local experiences.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and nearby sites.
• Expert guides provide engaging and informative commentary at every stop.
• All-inclusive pricing covers entrance tickets, train rides, and some meals, reducing unexpected costs.
• Flexible schedule with enough free time to explore or relax.
• Authentic experiences in local markets and visits to traditional salt mines and terraces.
• Small group size (max 18 travelers) for a more personalized experience.

A Deep Dive into the 5-Day Tour Experience

Day 1: Discovering Cusco’s Sacred Heart

Your adventure begins with a warm welcome—a pickup directly from the Cusco airport makes arriving stress-free. The city of Cusco, once the capital of the Inca Empire, is a lively mix of colonial architecture and Inca ruins. Your first stops are the Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun) and Sacsayhuaman.

The Qoricancha is particularly striking for its incredible stonework—the Incas mastered the art of fitting hard stones together so tightly you couldn’t slide a sheet of paper between them. This site offers a taste of the engineering brilliance and religious significance of Inca architecture.

Sacsayhuaman stands just outside the city and provides panoramic views of Cusco. The impressive zigzag walls, built from stones weighing up to 130 tons, showcase the Incas’ ability to work with massive stones. Our guide, likely named José or Rosa, will point out the craftsmanship and explain the strategic importance of this site.

Next, you’ll visit Qenqo, Pucapucara, and Tambomachay, all within a short drive. Each offers insight into Inca religious practices, military control, and water management. Tambomachay, known as the Inca Baths, features water sources that seem to flow eternally—a reminder of the Inca’s sophisticated hydraulic systems.

Day 2: From Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu

The day kicks off early with a trip to Pisac, famous for its terraced hillside ruins and bustling market. The site’s terraced agricultural land was used as an experimental farm, testing crops that could thrive at different altitudes—making it an Inca agricultural laboratory. The vibrant market is a great place to browse for textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs, supporting local artisans.

Afterward, the journey continues to Ollantaytambo, an ancient fortress and town that feels like stepping into a living Inca village. The stone terraces and temples are remarkably well-preserved, and the town’s layout still follows Inca urban planning principles. Here, you might enjoy a buffet lunch featuring Peruvian staples like quinoa, potatoes, and fresh ceviche, a highlight for many travelers.

In the afternoon, you board the tourist train to Aguas Calientes, the charming gateway town to Machu Picchu. The train ride offers stunning vistas of the valley and the river below, setting the scene for the next day’s early start.

Day 3: The Wonder of Machu Picchu

Waking up early, you’ll take a bus ride up to Machu Picchu to beat the crowds and catch the sunrise—an experience many find magical. Your guide will lead you through the main citadel, explaining the purpose of key structures like the Intihuatana stone, the Temple of the Sun, and the guardhouses. Expect about three hours of guided exploration, with ample time afterward for photos or optional hikes.

Many travelers praise the guides’ knowledge and storytelling ability, making the ruins come alive. One reviewer noted, “Our guides in all the places were also very good,” emphasizing the value of a guided tour in understanding the site’s significance.

After sightseeing, you’ll descend back to Aguas Calientes for lunch, then catch the train back to Ollantaytambo and transport to Cusco. The long but scenic day wraps up with a sense of achievement and awe.

Day 4: Exploring the Sacred Valley’s Hidden Treasures

Today is about small-scale wonders that reveal Inca ingenuity. The circular terraces of Moray look like an Inca agricultural laboratory, where different microclimates were tested for crop growth. It’s a fascinating site for anyone curious about the Incas’ scientific approach to farming.

Next, you’ll visit the salt mines of Maras, where over 3,000 salt pools have been mined since Inca times. Watching the residents harvest salt and learning about their traditional methods is a genuine connection to ongoing local traditions. Many visitors enjoy browsing the small market stalls and sampling different types of salt.

Your afternoon concludes with the return to Cusco, arriving around 2:30 p.m., giving you some free time to relax or explore the city further.

Day 5: Farewell and Departure

Your tour ends with a hotel pickup to take you to Cusco’s airport or bus terminal. This smooth ending ensures you leave with lasting memories and no last-minute transportation worries.

Practical Details and Value Analysis

This tour’s price of $499 includes a lot—entrance tickets, guided tours, train rides, and some meals—meaning you pay for convenience and expert insights. The small group size (up to 18 travelers) helps foster a more personalized experience, making it easier to ask questions and get attention from guides.

The timing is well thought out, though the early mornings and quick transitions might be tiring for some travelers. The itinerary balances sightseeing with free time, but be prepared for a busy schedule, especially on the third day at Machu Picchu.

The local guides—not named in the review but praised for their professionalism—bring the sites to life, explaining the significance of each monument and site. Their knowledge is a key reason many reviewers recommend this tour.

The train journey is a highlight, offering scenic views and the thrill of traveling like the Incas once did, but it also means managing train schedules and potential delays. The inclusion of transport, entrance fees, and guided tours offers excellent value for money.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a rundown of Inca Peru, especially those eager to see Machu Picchu and learn about Inca innovations. It’s also suited for travelers who appreciate guided explanations—the knowledgeable guides are praised for making history engaging.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, all-in-one experience that covers major highlights with expert guidance, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially great for those who don’t want to worry about booking individual tickets or arranging transport, as everything is included.

The Sum Up

This 5-day tour offers a solid balance of guided exploration and free time, giving you a chance to appreciate Peru’s most iconic sites without feeling overwhelmed. From the impressive stonework of Sacsayhuaman and the mystical terraces of Moray to the breathtaking splendor of Machu Picchu, each stop adds something unique to your understanding of Inca civilization.

The value is high, with entrance fees and train tickets included, and the small group size makes for a more intimate experience. The guides’ expertise and storytelling stand out, making complex history accessible and fun.

While the busy schedule might not suit travelers who prefer a slow pace, those eager to see many highlights in a short time will find this tour rewarding. It’s a perfect choice for culturally curious travelers who want to dive into the heart of Inca Peru, all while enjoying the comfort of organized logistics.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The $499 fee covers all entrance tickets, train tickets to Machu Picchu, transportation, guided tours, and two meals—usually lunch. It’s designed to be all-inclusive for a hassle-free experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, this tour is typically booked 30 days in advance on average, ensuring you secure your spot for this popular itinerary.

Is transportation provided between sites?
Yes, transport is included between all scheduled stops, with air-conditioned vehicles for the city and private buses for the archaeological sites. The train to Machu Picchu is also included.

Are meals included?
Lunch is included on Days 2 and 3, giving you a taste of Peruvian cuisine. Other meals are not included, so you can explore local restaurants on your own.

How many travelers will be in the group?
The maximum group size is 18 people, providing a more personable and engaging experience than large tour buses.

What if I want to visit Machu Picchu independently?
The tour includes a guided visit with enough free time afterward, but if you wish to explore on your own, you can plan additional visits or hikes within your schedule.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Most sites involve walking and some uneven terrain, but overall it’s accessible to most travelers in good health. Always inform your guide of any mobility concerns.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there is a free cancellation policy if you cancel at least 24 hours before the tour starts, allowing flexibility for your planning.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a photography lover, or just eager to see Machu Picchu, this tour provides a well-rounded, engaging, and cost-effective way to experience Peru’s treasures.