Cusco: 5-Day Tour with Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley & Moray

Experience the Best of Cusco and Machu Picchu in 5 Days

Imagine wandering through ancient Inca sites, gazing at breathtaking mountain vistas, and getting a taste of authentic Peruvian culture—all in just five days. This Cusco 5-Day Tour with XPLORA AMERICA offers a carefully curated journey through some of Peru’s most iconic sights: the Sacred Valley, the legendary Machu Picchu, and the vibrant city of Cusco itself. Priced at $2,799 per person, this experience provides a mix of guided exploration, comfortable accommodations, and unforgettable scenery.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances guided convenience with opportunities for personal discovery. The professional bilingual guides make history come alive, and the scenic transportation—whether by train, bus, or on foot—allows you to truly soak in the landscape. Plus, the early starts for Machu Picchu mean you’ll beat the crowds and catch those iconic sunrise vistas. A second highlight is the chance to visit Moray and the Mountain of Seven Colors, offering a taste of Peru’s diverse geography and ancient ingenuity.

One potential consideration: the early mornings, especially on Day 3, could be challenging if you’re not a fan of start-the-day-before dawn routines. Also, the tour involves some physical activity—walking and altitude changes—so travelers with mobility issues or altitude sensitivity should plan accordingly.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, well-organized introduction to Cusco and Machu Picchu without the stress of planning every detail themselves. History buffs, photography enthusiasts, and those eager to experience authentic local culture will find it particularly appealing.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Covers accommodation, train tickets, guided tours, and some meals.
• Iconic Sites: Visit Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo, Sacsayhuamán, and Moray.
• Expert Guides: Bilingual guides bring history and legends to life.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel stays, transport, and entrance tickets are arranged for you.
• Early Mornings & Physical Effort: Be prepared for some early starts and walking at altitude.
• Balance of Adventure & Relaxation: Mix of active exploration and luxurious comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the 5-Day Cusco Tour in Detail

Day 1: Welcome to Cusco

Your adventure begins with an airport transfer to the luxurious Palacio del Inka Hotel. After settling in, you’ll meet your guide around 1 p.m. for a tour of Cusco’s highlights. The Koricancha Temple, once an Inca palace dedicated to the Sun God, now reveals layers of history as it blends Inca stonework with Spanish colonial architecture. Strolling the Plaza de Armas, you’ll find the grand cathedral and lively local markets, giving you a taste of Cusco’s vibrant atmosphere.

A visit to Sacsayhuamán Fortress reveals impressive Incan engineering—massive stone walls that fit together so precisely they seem almost impossible. Nearby, the archaeological site of Qenko offers a glimpse of Inca ritual sites and stone carvings. We loved how guides like Carlos bring these sites alive with stories and context, making history tangible.

In the evening, you can unwind in your hotel, taking in the city lights and mountain views. The first day sets a relaxed yet immersive tone, perfect for acclimating to Cusco’s high elevation.

Day 2: Sacred Valley Adventure

Rising early, you’ll depart around 8 a.m. for a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley, a lush corridor of farms, villages, and archaeological sites. Our favorite stop was the charming Andean village where we saw local artisans at work. The highlight is Ollantaytambo, an ancient fortress and town that served as a key Inca stronghold. Walking through its narrow cobblestone streets and climbing the terraced hills gives you a real sense of Incan ingenuity and strategic planning.

Lunch in a local restaurant offers a chance to enjoy authentic Peruvian cuisine—think roasted cuy (guinea pig) or ceviche—though simpler options like chicken or vegetarian dishes are also available. The day wraps up with a return to Cusco in the evening.

Day 3: The Grandeur of Machu Picchu

The early wake-up call at 4:30 a.m. might be tough, but it’s worth it. You’ll head to Ollantaytambo station to catch the 360° Machu Picchu Train, departing at 7:22 a.m., with panoramic windows that promise stunning mountain views. Arriving in Machu Picchu Pueblo, you’ll take a bus up to the citadel—an experience in itself with breathtaking scenery.

Your guided tour of Machu Picchu lasts around 2.5 hours, where you’ll see the iconic Intihuatana stone, the solar observatory, and the terraced agricultural fields. Guides like Maria are great at sharing stories of the site’s history and the Inca’s engineering marvels. Many reviews praise the opportunity to explore early in the day before larger crowds arrive.

After lunch or free time in Machu Picchu Pueblo, you’ll take the train back to Ollantaytambo and transfer to Cusco. The day involves a lot of movement but promises unforgettable sights and a sense of walking through history.

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Day 4: The Mountain of Seven Colors & Moray

Day four begins with a scenic drive into the South Valley, heading first to the Mountain of Seven Colors—a natural spectacle of layered mineral deposits creating vibrant stripes in the mountain’s slopes. We loved the variety of hues and the way nature’s palette transforms throughout the day.

Next, the visit to Moray reveals how Inca farmers experimented with microclimates and crop cultivation by constructing concentric terraces. This site is a testament to Incan agricultural innovation.

Lunch in Cusipata allows a break from the day’s active sightseeing before heading back to Cusco. This day showcases Peru’s diverse landscapes and the ingenuity of its ancient inhabitants.

Day 5: Departure & Reflection

Your final morning offers a relaxed breakfast at your hotel before checking out. With no scheduled activities, you have time to reflect or explore more at your own pace before your transfer to the airport.

Practical Aspects & Value

This tour strikes a good balance between guided experiences and free time. The inclusion of train tickets, entry fees, and hotel stays makes it a fairly seamless package, especially for first-time visitors. The guided tours provide valuable context, transforming what could be just sightseeing into a richer understanding of Inca culture and history.

The cost of $2,799 reflects a premium experience—comfortable accommodations, expert guides, and streamlined transportation justify the price for those who value convenience and expert insights. However, it’s worth noting that some days involve early mornings and significant walking, so travelers should be prepared physically.

The use of a professional bilingual guide ensures language isn’t a barrier, and the group sizes seem manageable for personal interaction. The inclusion of meals on Days 2, 3, and 4 adds value, especially since local cuisine is part of the experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, well-organized introduction to Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate historical sites, stunning views, and culture without the hassle of planning each detail. Active travelers ready for early starts and walking at altitude will get the most out of the trip.

The Sum Up

This 5-day tour offers a well-rounded introduction to some of Peru’s most iconic sites, balancing guided visits with opportunities for personal exploration. The combination of stunning scenery, professional guides, and carefully arranged logistics makes it a solid choice for travelers eager to experience the highlights of Cusco and Machu Picchu without feeling rushed.

While early mornings and physical activity are part of the package, the sense of walking through history and witnessing incredible landscapes makes it all worthwhile. If you’re looking for a trip that emphasizes authentic sites, expert storytelling, and convenience, this tour delivers on all fronts.

It’s especially perfect for history lovers, photography buffs, and anyone craving a taste of Peru’s diverse geography—all wrapped up in a comfortable, thoughtfully curated experience.

FAQ

• What is the price of the tour?
  The tour costs $2,799 per person, which covers accommodation, train tickets, guided tours, and some meals.

• How long does the tour last?
  The experience spans 5 days, with check availability to see specific starting times.

• Are airport transfers included?
  Yes, transportation to and from the airport is included in the package.

• What sites will we visit in Cusco?
  You’ll explore Koricancha Temple, Plaza de Armas, Sacsayhuamán Fortress, and Qenko.

• Is Machu Picchu included?
  Yes, guided visits to Machu Picchu are part of the itinerary, including train and bus transportation.

• What about the physical demands?
  The level of physical activity is rated 2 out of 5, involving walking and some altitude changes. Be prepared for early mornings.

• Are meals included?
  Breakfast is included each day, with additional lunches on Days 2, 3, and a snack on Day 4.

• Can I cancel if my plans change?
  Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• Is there a guide for all visits?
  Yes, a professional bilingual guide accompanies all excursions, enhancing your understanding of each site.

• What should I pack?
  Bring comfortable walking shoes, layers for variable weather, sun protection, and a camera to capture the views.

This Cusco 5-Day Tour offers a detailed, authentic taste of Peru’s highlights—perfectly suited for curious travelers eager to combine comfort with discovery.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby