City Tour, Sacred Valley, Machupicchu and Maras Moray in 5 Days

Discover the highlights of Peru’s famed Cusco region in just five days with this thoughtfully curated tour. Priced at $615 per person, it offers a comprehensive journey through Inca sites, vibrant cities, and breathtaking landscapes, all led by knowledgeable guides. From the bustling streets of Cusco to the awe-inspiring ruins of Machu Picchu, this tour combines history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an ideal choice for travelers craving an authentic experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances guided excursions with free time—giving you the chance to soak in the atmosphere of Machu Picchu and Cusco at your own pace. We also appreciate the small group size, which means more personalized attention from your guides and the opportunity to ask all those detailed questions about Inca history and Peruvian culture.

One potential consideration is the altitude—some reviews mention that better acclimatization would enhance the experience. If you’re sensitive to high elevations, take it slow and hydrate well.

This tour suits travelers who want a well-rounded, immersive experience with expert guidance, especially those eager to see Machu Picchu along with other iconic sites like the Sacred Valley, Maras, and Moray. If you’re ready to explore Peru’s treasures with a solid plan and small-group comfort, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 5-day itinerary covering Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and more.
• Small group tours for a more intimate, personalized experience.
• Includes accommodations, some meals, and transportation—offering good value for the cost.
• Expert guides enhance understanding of Inca history and culture.
• Flexible free time allows for personal exploration at iconic sites.
• Important tips include carrying your passport and packing light for the overnight in Aguas Calientes.

First Impressions: What’s Included and Who’s It For?

This 5-day tour from Cusco, offered by Kantu Peru Tours, is designed for travelers who want to see the main highlights of this storied region without the stress of organizing transportation, guides, or accommodations. Priced at $615, it offers an excellent value considering that it includes hotel stays, guided tours, entrance tickets, train and bus rides, and some meals.

The experience is built around small group excursions (max 15 travelers), which means you’ll get more personalized attention and opportunities to ask questions. With a rating of 5.0 from 16 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, it’s clear that most participants find the experience rewarding and well-organized.

If you’re someone who appreciates expert guides who are knowledgeable and enthusiastic—like the reviewer Gerard who praised the guides for their different approaches each day—this tour will likely meet or exceed your expectations. It’s well-suited for history buffs, culture lovers, and those eager to see Machu Picchu without the hassle of planning every detail.

However, keep in mind that altitude sickness might be an issue if you aren’t accustomed to high elevations; some reviews mention that acclimatization could improve the experience. The tour involves multiple elevations, from Cusco’s city streets to the heights of Machu Picchu and Moray.

Day-by-Day Breakdown: What You’ll Experience

Day 1: Welcome to Cusco

Your adventure begins with a friendly meet-and-greet at Cusco’s airport, where a representative will assist in transferring you to your hotel. Expect a brief overview of Peru and Cusco’s history, setting the tone for an immersive trip.

In the afternoon, the guided city tour takes you through Qorikancha, the former Inca temple of the Sun, and the stunning Cathedral. Afterward, visit Sacsayhuaman, the massive Inca fortress, and explore Qenqo, Tambomachay, and Puca Pucara, all within a few hours.

What makes this first day worthwhile? The guides’ insights breathe life into these ruins, helping you understand their significance. Plus, the panoramic views of Cusco from Sacsayhuaman are spectacular, giving you an early taste of the local landscape.

Day 2: Sacred Valley’s Highlights

This day promises a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley, starting with a stop at Awanacancha, where you can see llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas—great for animal lovers and those curious about Andean textiles.

Next, the group visits Pisac, known for its impressive terraces and archaeological site perched above the valley. After a brief exploration, you’ll enjoy a buffet Inca lunch in Urubamba, featuring local grains like quinua and maize.

In the afternoon, the tour proceeds to Ollantaytambo, an iconic Inca fortress village with well-preserved ruins and charming cobblestone streets. Around this time, you’ll board the train to Aguas Calientes, the town at Machu Picchu’s doorstep. The train ride shows off Inca-built tracks and lush scenery—an experience in itself.

Traveling by train is crucial—it’s the most efficient way to reach Machu Picchu and adds a sense of adventure. The night is spent in Aguas Calientes, conveniently close to the next day’s highlight.

Day 3: The Marvel of Machu Picchu

Early morning, you’ll hop aboard a bus (or walk, if you prefer) for the short ride up to Machu Picchu. The site’s legendary status is palpable the moment you see those iconic terraced peaks.

Your guide will take you through the main sections: the Agricultural sector, Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana (sundial), and the Temple of the Window. Most participants find 2.5 hours sufficient for a thorough overview, but there’s also free time to linger or explore on your own.

For some, the real highlight is simply wandering around and soaking in the incredible views. You might hear others talk about how their guide’s explanations made the stones and structures come alive with stories.

In the afternoon, after lunch in Aguas Calientes, you’ll take the train back to Ollantaytambo and then transfer to Cusco, arriving late evening. This day is a true highlight—no doubt about it.

Day 4: Moray and Maras Salt Mines

On this day, the journey takes you out of the city into more rural scenery. Your first stop is Chinchero, where a textile demonstration showcases traditional weaving methods—great for those interested in local crafts.

Next, you’ll visit Moray, a set of circular terraces carved into the ground, which served as an experimental agricultural site for the Incas. The pattern and scale are mesmerizing, and guides often explain how Moray functioned as a kind of Inca laboratory.

Then, it’s on to Salinas de Maras, a vast expanse of terraced salt pools fed by mineral-rich springs. The pools shimmer under the sun—an extraordinary sight—and the salt harvesting process is fascinating to watch.

After a full day of exploring, you’ll return to Cusco, ending your day with free time to wander and reflect on the trip so far.

Day 5: Farewell and Departure

The tour concludes with transfer to Cusco’s airport, allowing plenty of time to catch your flight. The tour’s organization ensures a smooth departure, but it’s wise to confirm your pickup time and double-check your luggage arrangements ahead of time.

What Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides who bring history to life. Gerard, for example, appreciated the different guides each day, which kept the experience fresh and engaging. The stunning scenery, especially at Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, earns consistent praise.

Some mention the challenge of high altitude, noting that better acclimatization could improve their enjoyment—something to keep in mind if you’re not used to elevations over 3,000 meters.

The tour’s structure, with included transport, accommodations, and guided visits, offers great value—especially considering how much ground you cover in just five days.

Transportation and Comfort

The use of train and bus transportation is a highlight here; it’s efficient, comfortable, and adds to the adventure. The train rides, in particular, are scenic and relaxing, allowing you to rest between sightseeing stops.

Staying in centrally located hotels provides convenience for exploring Cusco’s lively streets or relaxing after busy days. The tour includes three nights in Cusco and one in Aguas Calientes, optimizing your time at key sites.

Price and Value

At $615, this tour ticks many boxes. It includes hotels, guided tours, entrance fees, train and bus rides, and some meals, which can be tricky to organize independently. Paying a bit more upfront saves you the hassle of booking each component separately—plus, it’s backed by a reputable guide service.

Compared to independent planning, this package offers the reassurance of experienced guides and reliable transportation, making it a solid choice for first-timers or those who prefer a structured itinerary.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re eager to see Machu Picchu and other Inca sites with guided insights, enjoy small-group intimacy, and appreciate having logistics taken care of, this tour fits perfectly. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of guided exploration and free time.

However, if you’re very sensitive to altitude, consider planning some extra days to acclimate before starting the tour or discuss with the operator about pacing options.

This 5-day tour offers a carefully curated way to experience the best of Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu without the stress of organizing everything yourself. The small groups, knowledgeable guides, and thoughtful itinerary ensure a balance between structured sightseeing and personal exploration.

While it’s a busy schedule, it’s perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time in Peru’s most iconic locations. You’ll come away with a deeper understanding of Inca culture, stunning vistas, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Most importantly, the tour’s emphasis on authentic sites and cultural insights ensures your visit feels meaningful, not just checkboxes on a list. If you’re looking for a well-organized, value-packed adventure that covers all the essentials, this is a solid choice.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
While most activities are manageable, there are some walks and high-altitude visits, so good footwear and a reasonable level of fitness are recommended.

Do I need to bring my passport?
Yes, it’s essential to carry your passport, especially for Machu Picchu entry and train checks.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes all accommodations, guided tours, entrance tickets, train and bus transfers, some meals, and airport transfers.

Can I customize or extend the tour?
The package is set, but you could arrange extra days or activities with the operator in advance.

How many people typically join the tour?
It’s designed for small groups, with a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Is there free time during the tour?
Yes, especially in Cusco and Aguas Calientes, allowing you to explore or relax on your own.

Are meals included?
Some meals are included, like the Inca buffet lunch, but others are not—be prepared to explore local restaurants.

What if I feel unwell at high altitude?
Altitude sickness can affect some travelers; staying hydrated and acclimating beforehand can help. If symptoms are severe, consult your guide.

How early does the tour start each day?
The start time is usually around 10:00 am, with early departures on some days for Machu Picchu.

Is tipping expected?
Tipping guides and drivers is customary but not obligatory; consider the quality of service received.

This detailed, honest review should help you decide whether this 5-day Cusco and Machu Picchu tour fits your travel style and expectations. It offers a well-paced, enriching experience that balances guided insights with personal moments—perfect for those eager to connect with Peru’s fascinating history and landscapes.