7-Day Private Guided Sacred Valley Cusco and Machu Picchu Tour

Experience the Best of Peru in 7 Days: Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain

If you’re dreaming of exploring Peru’s iconic sites while enjoying the comfort of a private guide, this 7-day package from Kantu Peru Tours offers an impressive blend of history, nature, and authentic culture. For $1,378 per person, you’ll visit Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and the Mountain of 7 Colors (Rainbow Mountain), with tailored transportation, expert guides, and plenty of time to soak in each location.

Two things we love about this tour are the well-paced itinerary, allowing time at each stop to enjoy without feeling rushed, and the personalized guides who bring these ancient sites to life with detailed explanations. The included transportation and entrance tickets add convenience, especially for first-time visitors.

One potential consideration is the long and early days, especially for Rainbow Mountain, which requires a 3:30 am start and a significant hike at high altitude. If you’re not accustomed to early mornings or strenuous walks, this part may be challenging.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate comprehensive, well-organized trips with a touch of luxury, and those eager to learn from knowledgeable guides while exploring one of South America’s most captivating regions. It’s ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone looking for an all-in-one experience with trusted operators.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 7-day itinerary covering Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain.
• Private guides ensure personalized attention and in-depth explanations.
• All transportation, entrance fees, and train tickets included, making logistics smooth.
• Authentic cultural experiences in villages like Chinchero and Ollantaytambo.
• Stunning scenery on the Rainbow Mountain hike and scenic train ride.
• Early starts and physical activity at high altitude require good fitness and planning.

Exploring the Sacred Valley and Cusco: A Perfect Introduction

Our journey begins with a warm welcome from a guide who picks us up at Cusco’s airport, setting a friendly tone. We’re immediately whisked away into the magical Sacred Valley, with its lush landscapes and ancient sites. The visit to the Andean zoo is delightful, with a chance to see condors, pumas, and spectacled bears — a fun way to kick off our Peruvian adventure. It’s a good reminder of the incredible biodiversity that surrounds these historic sites.

Next, we visit Pisaq, perched atop a mountain, where the panoramic views complement the impressive Inca ruins. Our guide’s insights make it clear why Pisaq was a key agricultural and ceremonial center. The visit to Urubamba offers a peaceful pause in the valley, with a chance to enjoy local scenery and perhaps a moment to reflect on the Incas’ mastery of these lands.

What we love here is the balance between cultural sites and natural beauty, plus the smooth transfer from site to site via private transportation — making it easy to relax and focus on the experience.

Day 2: Ollantaytambo, Maras, Moray & Chinchero

The second day is packed but well-structured. We start early with a guided tour of Ollantaytambo, a fortress and town that feels like stepping into a living archaeological site. As one reviewer noted, the guide “provides background information, a good understanding of the relationships and significance of each of the many sites,” which helps you appreciate the strategic importance of the place.

Afterward, we visit Salineras of Maras, a surreal landscape of salt ponds still in use today, and Moray, the Inca agricultural experiment station with circular terraces. The contrast of working salt flats and ingenious terraces showcase Inca ingenuity.

We finish the day in Chinchero, a rustic town where traditional customs still thrive, offering an authentic glimpse into everyday life. The mix of sites shows a variety of Inca and colonial influences, enriching our understanding of Peru’s layered history.

Authentic experiences like these, combined with comfortable transportation, make this day a highlight for those wanting depth without fatigue.

Day 3: Machu Picchu — The Crown Jewel

The excitement builds on our third day. We travel via first-class VISTADOME train, enjoying the scenery from panoramic windows — a luxury that’s appreciated after days of walking and exploring. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, we ascend by bus to Machu Picchu, where our private guide takes us on a 2-hour tour of the most iconic Inca city.

The guide’s explanations help us understand the purpose of the terraced hills, temples, and the mysterious Intihuatana stone. Afterwards, we have free time to explore on our own, take photos, or simply soak in the view of the mountain rising behind the ruins.

In the late afternoon, we return by train to Ollantaytambo, then transfer back to Cusco. The tour’s inclusion of entrance tickets, train, and bus tickets simplifies what could otherwise be complicated logistics and extra costs.

Transport logistics matter here: The luxury of a private guide and first-class train tickets maximize comfort and value, especially when compared to more rushed group tours.

Day 4: Cusco City Tour

Our fourth day offers a relaxed look at Cusco’s charm. With a knowledgeable guide, we stroll through the cobbled streets, visiting key landmarks like the Sacsayhuaman fortress, with its massive stone walls. The tour continues to Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay, giving us a comprehensive view of Inca military, religious, and water-related sites.

The review “the fantastic Inca sites such as Sacsayhuaman” echoes how impressive these ruins are — massive stones fitted together with incredible precision, still standing after centuries.

What we value is the combination of history, architecture, and local color. The tour provides enough time at each site to appreciate its significance without feeling hurried, all while enjoying the cooler mountain air.

Day 5: Free Day in Cusco

This day offers flexibility — perfect if you want to shop, relax, or explore more. The itinerary intentionally leaves time for personal discovery, and many travelers use this day to pick up souvenirs or visit local markets.

Day 6: Rainbow Mountain Hike

For many, Rainbow Mountain is the trip’s highlight. We rise at 3:30 am for the drive to Cusipata, where breakfast awaits before the trek begins. The hike, about 3.5 hours at high altitude (over 5,000 meters), demands decent physical condition, but the views are well worth it.

As one review states, “During the trip we will be able to observe beautiful landscapes, canyons, and glaciers,” including the impressive Ausangate mountain. The landscape is surreal — vibrant stripes of color across the mountain, set against a backdrop of rugged peaks and glaciers.

Our guide supplies oxygen and a first aid kit, recognizing the altitude challenges. After the hike, we enjoy a hearty lunch in the Quesiouno community before heading back to Cusco.

This day is a real adventure, blending physical activity with unforgettable scenery, but it’s not for those who dislike early mornings or strenuous walks at high elevation.

Day 7: Departure

The tour concludes with a private transfer to Cusco airport, depending on your flight schedule. The seamless organization means no last-minute surprises, and you leave Peru with a trove of memories.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

This 7-day private guided tour offers a deep dive into Peru’s highlights with the comfort and flexibility of personalized service. It’s perfect for travelers who want a well-rounded experience, including cultural insights, natural wonders, and hassle-free logistics. The guides’ knowledgeable commentary and carefully curated stops ensure you get more than just surface-level sights — you gain a richer understanding of Peru’s history and landscapes.

Do keep in mind the physical demands of high-altitude hikes like Rainbow Mountain. This tour is best suited for those with good mobility and a moderate fitness level, eager to explore without rushing. If you value quality guides, thoughtful planning, and scenic variety, this is a package that offers excellent value.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
Because the tour involves walking and hiking at high altitude, it’s best for those with decent mobility and stamina. The hikes, especially Rainbow Mountain, can be physically demanding.

Are entrance tickets included?
Yes, all entrance tickets to Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley sites, and Rainbow Mountain are included, along with train and bus transfers.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This is a private tour, so you may have some flexibility to tailor certain aspects with prior arrangement, but the core itinerary is fixed.

How early do I need to book?
On average, travelers book about 59 days in advance, especially since Machu Picchu tickets are subject to availability and require planning.

What is the price per person?
The tour costs $1,378.00 per person, providing a comprehensive package that covers most logistics and guides.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, especially if your family members are comfortable with walking and early mornings. The private guides ensure personalized attention.

What should I pack for Rainbow Mountain?
Bring warm clothing, sturdy shoes, sun protection, water, and perhaps a snack. The weather can change quickly at high altitude.

What is the overall value of this tour?
Considering the all-inclusive nature, knowledgeable guides, and comfortable transport, many find this offers excellent value, letting you relax and truly enjoy Peru’s highlights.

This 7-day package from Kantu Peru Tours combines convenience, expert guidance, and incredible scenery, making it a superb choice for those wanting a full, authentic experience of Peru’s most treasured sites. Whether you’re marveling at Machu Picchu, wandering through ancient Inca towns, or standing atop Rainbow Mountain, every moment is designed to leave you with lasting memories.