3 Days Cusco: Machu Picchu, City Tour and Sacred Valley

Exploring Cusco and Machu Picchu in Three Days: An Authentic Adventure

Imagine walking through a city where colonial charm meets ancient Inca splendor. For three days, this tour with Inkanto Travel takes you from the bustling heart of Cusco to the mystical heights of Machu Picchu, covering iconic landmarks, archaeological wonders, and scenic valleys. Priced at $989 per person and guided by knowledgeable locals, this experience promises a well-rounded introduction to Peru’s most famous sights.

What we particularly liked are two key aspects: first, the careful balance of culture and sightseeing, giving us genuine insights into Inca civilization without feeling rushed. Second, the early start to Machu Picchu means you get to see the sunrise over the ruins—an unforgettable moment that few tours can match.

A possible consideration is the tight schedule—with so many sites packed into three days, you’ll want to stay energized. Also, note that some attractions require additional admission fees, which are not included in the price. But overall, this tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience that combines history, nature, and breathtaking scenery in a manageable timeframe.

This trip suits history buffs, culture lovers, and adventurers eager to see the highlights of Cusco and Machu Picchu with a trusted guide. If you’re looking for a well-organized, authentic tour that covers both the highlights and some lesser-known sites, this one is a strong choice.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Cusco’s main landmarks, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu.
• Expert bilingual guides who offer in-depth insights and stories.
• Early morning Machu Picchu visit for the best light and fewer crowds.
• All-inclusive transportation and entrance fees, simplifying logistics.
• Authentic local experiences like textile weaving and salt mines.
• Tight schedule, so be prepared for busy days but rewarding sights.

A detailed look at the three-day Cusco and Machu Picchu tour

What’s Included and Why It Matters

For $989, this tour offers a lot in terms of value. It includes all entrance fees, which means you won’t be caught off guard by surprise costs, including the entry to Machu Picchu. The tour provides comfortable transportation between sites, a crucial feature when covering such a broad area. Plus, expert bilingual guides are on hand to interpret the sights and answer your questions, making the experience richer than just sightseeing on your own.

Included are breakfast and lunch, giving you energy for long days of exploration. Accommodation in Aguas Calientes is also part of the package, saving you the hassle of booking last minute. Round-trip train tickets between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes are included, ensuring smooth transfers and avoiding stressful planning.

Day 1: Cusco’s Historic Core

Your journey begins at Plaza de Armas, the lively heart of Cusco, where the blend of Spanish colonial buildings and ancient Inca stonework sets the tone. Here, you’ll get a feel for the city’s layered history. Next, a visit to Qorikancha, the Temple of the Sun, reveals Inca craftsmanship—imagine stones that fit together so precisely they seem to defy gravity.

Moving up and out of the city, visits to Sacsayhuaman, Q’enqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay showcase some of the most striking Inca sites. Sacsayhuaman, with its enormous stones, offers stunning panoramic views of Cusco—”the fortress that still holds its grandeur,” as one reviewer noted. The sites of Q’enqo and Tambomachay, with their mystical stone formations and water features, deepen understanding of Inca spiritual practices.

The day ends with a return to Cusco, giving time to soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere and perhaps enjoy some local cuisine before the next day’s adventure.

Day 2: Sacred Valley Immersion

Early in the morning, you head into the Sacred Valley, a region celebrated for its fertile lands and archaeological sites. The first stop is Chinchero, where you’ll see local families demonstrating traditional textile weaving—a hands-on experience that connects you to Inca cultural practices.

Next, the famous Moray archaeological site reveals terraced circular depressions that likely served agricultural experiments. It’s a fascinating glimpse into Inca engineering and innovation. Then, the impressive Maras Salt Mines present a surreal landscape of thousands of salt pans, still in use today, offering a unique view of ancient salt extraction methods.

A hearty buffet lunch in Urubamba provides a well-deserved pause, featuring local dishes. Afterward, Ollantaytambo offers a chance to wander through a well-preserved Inca town and fortress, showcasing complex urban planning and stonework.

In the late afternoon, you travel by train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu, where you’ll spend the night—an essential part of the experience to ensure an early start.

Day 3: Machu Picchu’s Mystique

Rising early, you board a bus to Machu Picchu, arriving just as the first light hits the ruins—an experience reviewers rave about. As you walk through the site, your guide highlights the Inca’s architectural and astronomical precision. Key visits include the Temple of the Sun, with its perfect stonework aligned to the solstice, the Intihuatana stone, believed to be an astronomical calendar, and the Room of the Three Windows, which frames spectacular views.

The guided tour lasts about two hours, leaving you plenty of time to absorb the atmosphere or explore further on your own. After the visit, you’ll enjoy lunch in Aguas Calientes before heading back to Ollantaytambo by train, retracing your steps through scenic landscapes.

Transportation and Timing: Why They Matter

The round-trip train tickets and bus transfers are thoughtfully included, removing the stress of booking separate tickets. The early start at Machu Picchu lets you avoid crowds and catch the sunrise—a highlight for many travelers. The tour’s tight schedule ensures you see all the main highlights, but it does mean long days. Be prepared for early mornings and a full itinerary.

Authentic Experiences That Enrich Your Trip

What sets this tour apart are the authentic encounters, such as the textile weaving demonstration in Chinchero and the salt mines at Maras. These personal touches deepen your understanding of local culture and heritage, far beyond just visiting ruins.

The Reviews Speak Volumes

Many past travelers highlight their appreciation for knowledgeable guides. One reviewer called their guide “Orlando,” “outstanding,” and noted that they had an unforgettable Peru experience. Others mentioned how the tour made their trip so much more special and personally memorable. Several points about stunning views and well-organized logistics echo throughout the reviews, reinforcing that this tour delivers on its promises.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who values guided insights and wants to see the main highlights without organizing every detail yourself, this tour fits the bill nicely. It’s suitable for travelers who can handle a busy schedule and appreciate the comfort of included transportation and tickets. It’s especially good for first-timers or those short on time but eager to see the essential sites of Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu.

The Sum Up

This three-day tour offers a comprehensive, well-structured introduction to some of Peru’s most iconic sights. With expert guides, included transportation, and authentic cultural experiences, you’ll come away with a richer understanding of Inca civilization and a collection of unforgettable memories. Its value lies in how smoothly everything is arranged, allowing you to focus on the awe-inspiring scenery and fascinating history.

While the schedule is packed and some additional costs are possible, the overall experience is highly praised for its knowledgeable guides and stunning vistas. It’s perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, culture, and comfort.

If you’re aiming for a well-organized, immersive trip with all the essentials covered, this tour will serve you well. It’s a great choice for those eager to explore with confidence, guided by locals who know these lands intimately.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides comfortable transportation between sites, including train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.

Are entrance fees included?
All entrance fees are covered, including the ticket to Machu Picchu, so you won’t need to worry about paying extra at the sites.

What if I want to visit Machu Picchu early in the morning?
You’ll start your day with an early transfer to Machu Picchu, arriving just as the ruins open, allowing you to see the site in the quiet of dawn.

How long is the guided tour of Machu Picchu?
The guided part lasts approximately two hours, after which you can explore further on your own or relax.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast is included each morning, and lunch is provided on the second and third days, giving you energy for long days of sightseeing.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for some walking and early mornings. It’s best suited for those comfortable with a busy schedule and a moderate pace.

This tour with Inkanto Travel offers a sturdy balance of guided sightseeing, cultural experiences, and scenic beauty—making it an ideal choice for a memorable, hassle-free adventure into Peruvian history and landscape.