6-Day Private Tour from Lima: Cusco, Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu

A 6-Day Private Tour from Lima to Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu offers an intimate and flexible way to discover some of Peru’s most iconic sites. For about $1,383 per person, you get five nights of carefully selected accommodations, private transportation, guided visits, and all entrance fees — making this a comprehensive package for those eager to explore the Inca heartland in style.

What we especially appreciate about this tour is how it combines personalized attention with the chance to customize your itinerary, ensuring that your interests — whether history, culture, or scenery — are front and center. Plus, the inclusion of local guides with extensive knowledge means you’ll gain insights that go beyond the usual travel books.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is the tight schedule — with flights, transfers, and guided tours packed in six days, you might find it a bit fast-paced if you prefer lingering over every detail. Still, for most travelers, this means a rich experience without missing the essentials.

This tour is ideal for anyone who wants a well-rounded introduction to Peru’s highlights but with enough flexibility to tailor the experience. Enthusiasts of Inca sites, travelers keen on culture, and those who value a private guide will find this trip especially rewarding.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private guide and vehicle ensure tailored visits and flexibility.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and surrounding sites like Moray and Ollantaytambo.
• All-Inclusive Value: Entrance fees, train and bus transfers, accommodations, and some meals included.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable local guides significantly enrich the experience.
• Authentic Encounters: Visits to traditional towns and markets for a taste of local life.
• Efficient Travel: Organized logistics mean maximum time at key sights with minimal hassle.

In-Depth Review of the 6-Day Private Tour

What You Can Expect from the Itinerary

This tour is designed to balance cultural exploration, scenic beauty, and historic wonder. Over six days, you’ll hop from Lima to Cusco, then venture into the Sacred Valley, culminating with a visit to Machu Picchu, the famed “Lost City of the Incas.”

Day 1 is straightforward — after arriving in Lima, your private driver will meet you and transfer to your hotel. This sets a relaxed tone, letting you settle in before your adventure begins.

Day 2 involves a flight to Cusco, a city perched over 11,000 feet. While the flight isn’t included, the transfer from the airport to your hotel ensures a smooth start. We love how the tour includes a full day for you to acclimate or explore Cusco at your own pace, which is crucial given the altitude.

Day 3 introduces you to the vibrant heart of Cusco. Visiting San Blas offers a glimpse into local life—stone streets, colonial houses, and artisans’ workshops. The visit to Qorikancha, once the most sacred Inca temple, now partly a colonial church, provides a powerful contrast of cultures. The San Pedro Market then immerses you in everyday life with local produce and crafts, a favorite among travelers for its genuine atmosphere.

Day 4 is a highlight — heading to the Sacred Valley. You’ll see Maras Salt Terraces, where salt has been harvested for centuries, and Moray, the circular terraces that served as an agricultural laboratory for the Incas. Both sites are awe-inspiring in their scale and purpose. The lunch in a local house adds an authentic touch. Later, the visit to Ollantaytambo reveals a well-preserved Inca town with impressive ruins and terraces, offering a real sense of Inca urban planning. That afternoon, you’ll take a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, setting the stage for the next day’s exploration.

Day 5 is dedicated to Machu Picchu. The guided tour covers the major temples, aqueducts, and terraces, giving you a solid understanding of the site’s purpose. Many travelers love the flexibility to explore on your own afterward, with options to hike to the Sun Gate or Wayna Picchu (entrance fee not included). The return train to Cusco wraps up your adventure with scenic views of the valley, making the journey as memorable as the destination.

Day 6 sees you returning to Lima for your international flight, a straightforward end to an intensive trip.

Transportation and Comfort

The private van and train transfers ensure comfort and efficiency. The train journey to Machu Picchu is often praised for its scenic beauty, and traveling with a private guide means you’ll have personalized commentary rather than a large group. The accommodations, selected with care, balance comfort and local character—expect cozy hotels that reflect the Peruvian aesthetic.

The Value of Guided Tours

Many reviewers, like Wendy and Orlando, highlight the value of having a knowledgeable guide — someone like Alvaro, who made the experience memorable with his insights. Others, like Kevin, appreciated the seamless organization from airport pickup to final transfers, meaning less stress and more focus on the sights.

Authentic Encounters and Local Flavor

Beyond the ruins and scenic vistas, the tour’s inclusion of local markets and traditional towns adds an authentic layer. Visiting San Blas and San Pedro Market ensures you see real Peruvian life, not just tourist spots. The lunch in a local house during the Sacred Valley trip offers a taste of home-cooked, traditional cuisine, a memorable highlight.

Challenges and Considerations

While most travelers praise the tour for its well-organized structure, some might find the schedule busy. With just six days, you’ll be covering a lot of ground, which leaves little room for extended exploration. Also, the tour’s price includes many extras but does not cover international or domestic flights — you’ll need to arrange those separately.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who want a comprehensive, private-led experience with the flexibility to customize. It’s perfect for first-timers wanting an overview of Inca culture and history with expert guidance. It also appeals to those who value comfort, seamless logistics, and authentic local encounters.

Final Thoughts on the Experience

This tour offers a well-balanced mixture of culture, scenic beauty, and historical insights. The private guide makes each site come alive with stories and context, transforming mere ruins into meaningful experiences. The inclusion of traditional towns, markets, and local cuisine ensures a taste of Peru beyond the typical tourist trail.

The attention to detail — from private transfers to carefully curated accommodations — means you can focus on enjoying your trip rather than stressing over logistics. The reviews reinforce that the guides, especially, make all the difference, with many travelers citing their knowledge and personable approach as a highlight.

In essence, this is a value-packed, well-organized adventure designed for curious travelers eager to see the best of Peru with a personal touch. It’s an excellent choice for those who prefer a private guide, meaningful experiences, and a balanced itinerary that respects your pace and interests.

FAQ

Do I need to arrange my flights separately?
Yes, international flights to Lima and domestic flights between Lima and Cusco are not included. You’ll need to schedule those separately, but the tour includes land transfers and train travel in Peru.

Is this tour suitable if I’m not used to high altitudes?
The tour starts in Cusco, which is over 11,000 feet. It’s advisable to take time to acclimate, and the one full day in Cusco before sightseeing allows your body to adjust. The itinerary also includes leisurely activities to help you acclimate.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included for all five mornings. Lunch is provided on the Sacred Valley day, and dinner arrangements are flexible depending on your preferences.

Can the itinerary be customized?
Yes, since this is a private tour, your guide can tailor some activities or adjust timing based on your interests and energy levels.

What sites are included in the Machu Picchu visit?
The guided tour covers Temples of the Sun and the Condor, aqueducts, houses, and Sacred Terraces. Optional short treks like the Sun Gate or Incan Bridge are available but not included.

How does the train journey work?
You’ll take a scenic train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes on Day 4, and then back from Machu Picchu to Cusco on Day 5. The train offers beautiful views of the valley and is part of the authentic experience.

What’s the best way to prepare for this trip?
Comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing for changing weather, and a camera are essentials. Bring your passport for entry to sites and tickets.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While most travelers find it suitable, the schedule is quite packed, and some sites require good walking. It’s best suited for energetic travelers comfortable with walking and altitude.

What support is available if I have special needs?
Since this is a private tour, you can discuss specific requirements at booking. The tour includes private transfers, which can be arranged to accommodate your needs.

To sum it up, this 6-day private journey offers a detailed, flexible, and memorable way to experience Peru’s archaeological and cultural treasures. If you’re eager to learn from expert guides, enjoy authentic encounters, and see the highlights with ease, this trip is a superb choice. It balances comfort and adventure, making sure you leave with a deep appreciation of Inca history and Peruvian life.