Our Cusco City Tour and Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu Tour (3 Days, 2 Nights) offers a comprehensive introduction to Peru’s history, culture and Andean landscapes. The journey begins in Cusco, the former Inca capital, where you will visit landmarks including the Cusco Cathedral, Qoricancha Temple, and nearby Inca ruins. The tour continues through the Sacred Valley, with stops in traditional villages, local markets and archaeological sites such as Pisac and Ollantaytambo. Local guides provide historical context and ensure a comfortable, well-organized experience throughout.

The highlight of the adventure is your visit to Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. This Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu tour lets you travel by scenic train to Aguas Calientes, enjoy an overnight stay near the citadel and experience a guided tour of Machu Picchu at a relaxed pace. Ideal for travelers short on time but eager for a deep cultural experience, this 3-day Machu Picchu tour from Cusco blends city exploration, Andean heritage, and archaeological wonders into one journey. Whether you’re looking for Cusco tours, Sacred Valley tours, or the best way to visit Machu Picchu in 3 days, this itinerary delivers an authentic and enriching Peru travel experience.

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Classic Cusco & Machu Picchu Tour – 3 Days

The Cusco City Tour and Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu Tour (3 Days, 2 Nights) offers a thoughtfully paced itinerary for travelers seeking to experience Peru’s most iconic destinations without feeling rushed. The tour features the cultural highlights of Cusco, the archaeological sites of the Sacred Valley, and a guided visit to Machu Picchu, all led by expert local guides with efficient logistics. Each day provides a meaningful connection to Peru’s history and landscapes, from colonial streets and Inca temples to scenic valleys and mountain railways.

This 3-day Machu Picchu tour allows ample time to explore, rest, and fully experience each destination. Overnight stays in the Sacred Valley and Aguas Calientes minimize travel fatigue and enhance comfort, making the tour ideal for first-time visitors, couples, and those seeking an authentic yet comfortable experience. It is among the most comprehensive Cusco tour packages for a short stay.

Tour at a Glance

  • Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights
  • Start / End: Cusco
  • Destinations: Cusco City · Sacred Valley · Pisac · Ollantaytambo · Machu Picchu
  • Activities: City tour · Archaeological sites · Scenic train journey · Guided Machu Picchu tour
  • Accommodation: Hand-picked hotels in the Sacred Valley & Aguas Calientes
  • Group Size: Small group or private tours available
  • Style: Cultural · Historical · Scenic · Comfortable

Why Choose This Tour?

✔️ Perfect Balance of Culture & Iconic Sights
This tour combines Cusco city highlights, Sacred Valley archaeology, and Machu Picchu in one seamless itinerary.

✔️ Relaxed Pace, No Rush
Overnight stays let you enjoy each destination without a demanding travel schedule.

✔️ Expert Local Guides
Licensed local guides share insights into Inca history, culture, and traditions.

✔️ Scenic Train Experience
Travel to Machu Picchu by train through the Urubamba Valley, considered one of the most scenic routes in the Andes.

✔️ Ideal for First-Time Visitors
Designed for travelers seeking a comprehensive Peru experience in three days.

Difficulty Level

Easy to Moderat

This tour is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Activities include walking tours and gentle exploration of archaeological sites. Visiting Machu Picchu involves walking on stone paths and stairs, but no technical hiking is required. Some travelers may experience mild discomfort due to Cusco’s altitude, so acclimatisation is recommended.

Best Time to Do This Tour

  • Best Season: April to October (dry season, clear skies, excellent visibility)
  • Green Season: November to March (lush landscapes, fewer crowds, occasional rain)
  • Peak Months: May, June, July (book early due to high demand)

This tour operates year-round and provides a rewarding experience in any season. The Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu are particularly beautiful at sunrise and during the shoulder seasons.

 

Machu Picchu Tour Itinerary.

Cusco City Tour – Half Day Adventure
Your tour begins at 1:00 PM with pick-up from your hotel in Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire. This city tour offers an ideal introduction to Peru’s cultural heritage, combining colonial landmarks with impressive Inca ruins.
The first stop is the Cusco Cathedral, a colonial architectural masterpiece in the Plaza de Armas. Inside, view paintings from the Cusqueña school and altars decorated with gold and silver. Next, visit Qoricancha, the Temple of the Sun, once the most sacred Inca site. Here, the Incas' finely carved stonework supports the Spanish-built Santo Domingo convent, illustrating Cusco’s layered history.
The tour continues to the surrounding hills to explore four major Inca archaeological sites. Begin with Sacsayhuamán, a ceremonial fortress known for its massive stone walls, some weighing over 100 tons and fitted without mortar. Next, visit Qenqo, a spiritual site carved into rock, used for rituals and likely for astronomical observations.
Next is Puca Pucara, the Red Fortress, named for the color of its stones at sunset. It served as a military checkpoint and rest stop for Inca travelers. The final stop is Tambomachay, known as the Inca Baths, where aqueducts still carry fresh water through terraced stone fountains. This site was likely dedicated to water rituals and the worship of natural elements.
Return to Cusco in the early evening with new insights into Peru’s rich history.
  • Accommodation: Rumipunko or similar
  • Meals. None
  • Entry fees: Included
Sacred Valley - Pisac - Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes.
Your day begins with an 8:00 AM pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. The first stop is an Alpaca farm, where you’ll meet llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and guanacos, and learn about their importance in Andean culture and the local economy. Next, visit a traditional weaving center to observe skilled artisans crafting textiles with natural dyes and ancient techniques.
Next, explore the Pisac Inca site, renowned for its agricultural terraces and sacred temples. Learn about Inca farming methods and their ongoing significance. Then, visit the Pisac market, known for its colorful handicrafts and authentic souvenirs. Continue through the Sacred Valley to Urubamba for a local lunch.
The final stop is Ollantaytambo fortress, a living Inca town with impressive terraces and well-preserved temples. After your visit, board the afternoon train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and rest for the next day’s Machu Picchu experience.
  • Accommodation: La Jaya or similar
  • Meals. B-L-D
  • Entry fees: Included
Machu Picchu Guided tour - Back to Cusco.
Today features a visit to Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. After an early breakfast at your hotel in Aguas Calientes, we’ll take one of the first shuttle buses to the site, giving you the opportunity to explore the citadel in the calm of the morning before most visitors arrive.
At the entrance, please present your passport and Machu Picchu ticket. You will then ascend to the upper terraces, ideal for panoramic photos of the ruins and surrounding Andean peaks. Your guide will lead a 2.5-hour tour of Machu Picchu’s key sites, including the Temple of the Sun, Sacred Plaza, main plaza, and Royal Quarters, highlighting Inca architecture and spirituality.
For those seeking adventure, an optional hike to Huayna Picchu Mountain is available for $75 per person and must be booked in advance. This challenging two-hour round-trip trek offers exceptional views of the citadel, is best undertaken from May to October, and is not recommended for anyone uncomfortable with heights.
After your visit, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch at your leisure. You will then take the scenic train and a private transfer back to Cusco, arriving in the evening around 7.30pm.
  • Accommodation: Rumipunko or similar
  • Meals: Breakfast at hotel
  • Entry fees: Included

Inclusions for the Machu Picchu Tour

Below is a detailed overview of what is included in your tour with Champions Peru Travel. These inclusions ensure a hassle-free experience, allowing you to enjoy your trip with expert local guides.

✔️ Night Before Briefing: An informative session at 6 PM at your hotel, led by your experienced English-speaking tour guide. The briefing covers the itinerary, what to expect and answers your questions so you are well-prepared for your adventure.

✔️ Entrance Fees: All entry fees for Inca sites, attractions, and local markets you will visit are included, ensuring a seamless experience.

✔️ Round-Trip Expedition Tourist Class Train: Enjoy comfortable seating and scenic views on your journey from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and back. Upgrades to the Vistadome or Luxury Hiram Bingham trains are available upon request.

✔️ Private Transportation: Private transportation is provided for the Sacred Valley tour and for your return transfer to Cusco after visiting Machu Picchu, ensuring comfort and convenience. Our fleet includes Hyundai and Mercedes Benz minivans for quality service.

✔️ Accommodation: Enjoy a stay in a carefully selected 3-star hotel with modern amenities before your visit to Machu Picchu. Luxury upgrades are available; please contact our sales team for details.

✔️ Meals: Some meals are included as specified in the daily itinerary. For meals not listed, your guide will recommend local options.

✔️ Bus Tickets: Round-trip bus tickets to Machu Picchu are included, providing convenient transportation from Aguas Calientes to the entrance so you can maximize your time at the site.

✔️ Machu Picchu Entry Fee: For the best experience, we recommend Circuit 2, the most popular route, which offers stunning views and access to iconic areas of Machu Picchu. To secure this ticket, please book your tour in advance. If Circuit 2 is unavailable, we will offer Circuit 3 plus Circuit 1 as an alternative for a comprehensive visit.

✔️ Guided Tour: Experience daily guided tours, including Machu Picchu, led by knowledgeable English-speaking guides who share insights into the history, architecture, and cultural significance of each site.

✔️ All Taxes: All applicable taxes are included, with no hidden costs.

These inclusions provide a comprehensive, enjoyable, and hassle-free experience as you explore the breathtaking Sacred Valley and majestic Machu Picchu.

EXCLUDED

  • Accommodation in Cusco before and after the tour is not included.
  • Gratuities for your guide and driver are optional but appreciated.
  • Travel insurance is recommended but not included.

UPGRADES: Enhance your experience with the following optional upgrades:

Train Upgrades:

✔️ Vistadome Train: One-way ticket for $65 or round-trip for $120 per person, offering panoramic views on your journey.

✔️ Luxury Hiram Bingham Train: Return journey only, $520 per person, featuring gourmet meals, live entertainment, and exceptional views.

Hotel Upgrades:

✔️ Luxury 5-Star Hotels:

  • Inkaterra Pueblo Hotel: $350 per person for a high-end experience in the Andean landscape.
  • Sumaq Hotel: $290 per person, recognized for premium service.

✔️ Huayna Picchu Ticket: $75 per person. Due to high demand, we recommend booking in advance. This challenging hike takes place on the second day after your guided Machu Picchu visit and offers spectacular views from above.

 

1. What is included in the Cusco City & Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu Tour 3 Days 2 Nights?
This 3-day tour includes guided visits to Cusco City, the Sacred Valley (Pisac, Ollantaytambo, local markets), and Machu Picchu. The package covers all transportation, professional English-speaking guides, entrance fees, train and bus tickets, hotel accommodation, and selected meals. It is designed to provide comfort, efficiency and an authentic cultural experience.
2. Is this tour suitable for first-time visitors to Cusco and Machu Picchu?
Yes, this tour is ideal for first-time visitors. The itinerary is well paced, includes time to adjust to the altitude in Cusco, and features guided tours at all major sites. You will experience the highlights of Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu without feeling rushed.
3. How physically demanding is the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu 3-day tour?
The tour is rated easy to moderate. No multi-day trekking is required. Walking at sites like Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Machu Picchu is manageable for travelers with basic fitness. This tour is a comfortable alternative to the Inca Trail.
4. Which Machu Picchu circuit is included in this tour?
This tour usually includes Machu Picchu Circuit 2 or 3, depending on availability. These circuits cover the main temples, terraces, plazas, and viewpoints. Your licensed guide will provide a comprehensive historical and cultural overview during the visit. highly recommend you to book the tour in advance in order to get the Circuit 2.
5. When is the best time to do the Cusco City & Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu Tour?
The best time to visit is during the dry season from May to September, when weather is clear and ideal for sightseeing. April and October offer fewer crowds and mild temperatures. The tour operates year-round, including the green season from November to March.
6. Does the tour include hotel accommodation?
Yes. The tour includes carefully selected 3-star hotels in Cusco or the Sacred Valley and Aguas Calientes. Upgrades to 4- or 5-star hotels are available upon request, offering flexibility for comfort and luxury preferences.
7. How do we travel from the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu?
You will travel by tourist train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. The package includes round-trip train tickets and bus transportation from Aguas Calientes to the Machu Picchu entrance for a smooth and scenic journey.
8. Is this a small-group or private tour?
This tour is available as a small-group of 8 people or private option, based on your preference. Small groups offer a more personal experience, while private tours provide full flexibility and customization.
9. What should I pack for the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour?
We recommend bringing your original passport, comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, a rain jacket, sun protection, a reusable water bottle, personal medication, and a small daypack. Proper packing ensures a comfortable experience during your Cusco City Tour and your visit to Machu Picchu.
10. Why choose this Cusco City & Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu Tour over other options?
This tour offers Cusco’s historical highlights, the cultural richness of the Sacred Valley, and a fully guided Machu Picchu experience in three days. With seamless logistics, expert guides, comfortable transportation, and well-planned timing, it is an excellent choice for travelers seeking quality, authenticity and value.