These privately-guided experiences provide an opportunity to explore the cultural and spiritual soul of Peru, including what is perhaps South America’s cultural highlight: Machu Picchu. Over the course of these 5 days, you will be able to experience Machu Picchu, as well as the Inca Empire’s capital, Cusco, and the expansive terraces of Peru’s Sacred Valley.
Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu, the crown jewel of Inca civilisation, is a breathtaking citadel high up in the Peruvian Andes. Built it in the 15th Century under the ruler Pachacútec, its engineering marvels include terraces, temples and plazas. What truly makes Machu Picchu extraordinary is its breathtaking setting — perched among mist-shrouded peaks, overlooking deep valleys and ancient stone terraces, where winding rivers weave through incredibly step mountains landscapes.
Cusco and Sacsayhuaman
Cusco, once the capital of the Inca Empire, is now a living museum heavily influenced by its past. Cobbled market streets wind between Spanish colonial churches and huge Inca stone walls, whilst above the city rises the Inca fortress of Sacsayhuamán. Beyond its culture, Cusco is the key starting point for trips into the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. It also provides travellers with a chance to adjust to high altitude before heading deeper into the Andes.
Ollantaytambo & Peru’s Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley, situated along the Urubamba River, provided a fertile area for the Incas, but is more commonly known for its impressive Inca sites, such as Pisac, extensive terraces and lively markets. Ollantaytambo and Moray are two of the Sacred Valley’s most unique Inca sites: Ollantaytambo, a still-populated town built around a monumental fortress, and Moray, renowned for its striking circular terraces which are believed to have served as an agricultural laboratory for the Incas. Beyond the ruins, the valley offers typical Andean landscapes, traditional villages and a milder climate than Cusco.
This Machu Picchu experience provides an ideal way to see all three destinations. From the cultural insights of Cusco, down to the ancient landmarks of the Sacred Valley, and all the extraordinary mysteries of Machu Picchu, this experience takes care of all the logistics. 5 days enables you to pace yourself and take in the highlights without feeling rushed, making it perfect for those with limited time who still seek one of the most iconic experiences in South America.
Tailor-made adjustments are no problem at all – please Contact Us to discuss.
Itinerary
Cusco to Machu Picchu
Day 1 - Arrival in Cusco
When you arrive in Cusco, our guide will meet you and transfer you privately to your hotel (approx. 20 minutes).
Lunch is included at the Coffee Museum; after which we will take you on a gentle afternoon walking tour which includes the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, Qoricancha temple and the bustling San Pedro Market. You have the evening free to relax.
Tonight, you’ll stay in a charming boutique hotel in Cusco’s historic San Blas neighbourhood (choose from our 3/4 – 5-star options). Here, you can expect modern amenities, a terrace, and a small, heated pool, all within walking distance of the Plaza de Armas.
Day 2 - Cusco & Sacsayhuamán
After breakfast, your private guide will take you on a guided stroll through Cusco; and by vehicle to nearby sites, starting with the impressive fortress of Sacsayhuamán. You will then visit other key Inca and colonial landmarks around the city.
Later, you'll have some free time to explore Cusco’s cobbled streets, shop for local crafts and enjoy the lively small city vibe.
In the evening, you will be taken to the Sacred Valley where you will stay in a beautifully restored 19th Century colonial mansion in the heart of the Sacred Valley.
Day 3 - Sacred Valley
Today, you will drive above the Sacred Valley and over patchwork fields to the dazzling white salt pans of Maras, where locals still harvest salt by hand, just as the Incas did. After, you will visit Moray’s mysterious circular terraces – an ancient agricultural lab or something more otherworldly?
Then take a scenic shortcut to Ollantaytambo for a traditional Pachamanca lunch on an organic farm. While your lunch of meats and vegetables cooks under hot stones, explore the farm’s sustainable practices and then feast among mountain views and Inca ruins. After lunch, board the train along the Urubamba River to Machu Picchu town for the night.
Tonight you will stay in a modern retreat in the centre of Aguas Calientes, just steps from the train station and the entrance to Machu Picchu. This eco-friendly hotel features simple designs and natural materials, combining modern comfort with Andean charm.
Day 4 - Machu Picchu
Start the day with a bus ride to the entrance of the citadel, then a gentle walk to the Sun Gate for views and that first glimpse of the lost city.
After lunch near the site, return in the afternoon — the quietest and most magical time — for a guided tour of the temples, terraces and hidden corners.
As the day ends, get the bus down and enjoy a scenic train ride along the Urubamba River back to Cusco.
Tonight, you’ll stay at Antigua Casona San Blas, a beautifully restored boutique hotel in Cusco’s artistic San Blas neighbourhood. This elegant property combines historic charm with modern comfort. It features stone courtyards, cosy fireplaces, and friendly service.
Day 5 - Return to Cusco
Back once more in the old Inca capital, you have time to enjoy all the museums, chocolate-making classes and local markets that this city has to offer.
Dates
Included
• All private transport, including airport transfers, tours, trains, and buses
• Expert English-speaking guides throughout
• Excursions and entrance fees to Pisac, Moray, Maras, Ollantaytambo, Machu Picchu, and the Cusco ruins
• Four nights of accommodation in Yucay, Machu Picchu, and Cusco
• Meals included: four breakfasts, four lunches, and two dinners
• Traditional Pachamanca experience with an organic farm tour
• Carbon Positive travel: carbon emissions offset and two native trees planted per person
• Drinking water during all activities
NOT Included
• International and domestic flights
• Travel Insurance
• Tips for guides and lodge staff
• Personal expenses such as souvenirs, drinks, and laundry
• Meals not specified in the itinerary
