Lima to Machu Picchu Tour 6 Days

Day 1: Arrival in Lima

Upon arrival at Lima International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by one of our representatives and transferred to your hotel in Miraflores, one of the most exclusive districts in Lima, known for its ocean views, elegant restaurants, and upscale shopping areas.

After check-in at Lima Wasi Hotel, the remainder of the day is free to relax after your international flight.

If your arrival is in the morning, AITA Peru Adventures can organize an optional guided tour of Lima, where you will explore the historic center of the city, colonial architecture, and the most emblematic landmarks of the Peruvian capital.

Overnight in Lima.

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Day 2: Lima – Cusco | City Tour

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Lima Airport for your flight to Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire.

Upon arrival in Cusco, our team will transfer you to your hotel where you will have time to rest and acclimatize to the altitude.

In the afternoon, enjoy a guided city tour of Cusco, one of the best-preserved pre-Columbian cities in Latin America. During the tour you will explore:

• The charming narrow streets of the historic center, including Loreto Street (Intikijllu)

• Hatun Rumiyoq Street, home to the famous Twelve-Angled Stone

• San Blas neighborhood, a traditional artisan district filled with galleries and workshops

• San Pedro Market, where locals shop for fresh produce and traditional foods

The tour also includes a visit to the impressive Saqsayhuaman Fortress, famous for its enormous megalithic stone walls that showcase the extraordinary engineering skills of the Inca civilization.

Overnight at San Agustin International Hotel.

Optional: This tour can also be replaced with a more traditional visit to the archaeological sites of Qoricancha, Saqsayhuaman, Q’enqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay using a private vehicle.

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Day 3: Sacred Valley of the Incas – Chinchero, Moray & Maras

Today you will explore the breathtaking Sacred Valley of the Incas, a region known for its fertile lands, traditional villages, and impressive archaeological sites.

The tour begins in Chinchero, a picturesque Andean village famous for its colorful traditional market and ancestral textile weaving techniques.

Next, visit Moray, a fascinating archaeological complex composed of circular agricultural terraces believed to have been used by the Incas as an agricultural experimentation center.

Continue to the Maras Salt Mines, where thousands of salt pools cascade down the mountainside. Local families still harvest salt here using ancient techniques passed down for generations.

Afterward, enjoy lunch in Urubamba, the heart of the Sacred Valley.

In the afternoon, visit the impressive Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo, considered the last stronghold of the Inca resistance during the Spanish conquest.

Overnight at Samanapaq Hotel in Ollantaytambo.

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Day 4: Machu Picchu – Wonder of the World

Early in the morning, you will board the train to Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes), traveling through spectacular landscapes alongside the Urubamba River.

Upon arrival, you will take a bus up the mountain to reach the legendary Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and the most iconic archaeological site in South America.

During a guided tour, you will discover the fascinating history, architecture, and mysteries of this incredible Inca city hidden among the Andes Mountains. The site captivates visitors with its breathtaking scenery, ancient temples, terraces, and spiritual atmosphere.

After the visit, return to Aguas Calientes and later take the train back to Cusco, followed by a transfer to your hotel.

Overnight at San Agustin International Hotel.

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Day 5: Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)

Early in the morning, you will depart for an unforgettable adventure to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), one of the most spectacular natural landscapes in Peru.

Located in the heart of the Andes Mountains, this colorful mountain has become famous for its vibrant mineral layers that create a stunning rainbow-like appearance.

The journey takes you through traditional Andean villages, herds of alpacas and llamas, and breathtaking high-altitude landscapes.

Once at the viewpoint, you will witness one of the most impressive natural wonders of Peru. Many travelers describe the place as having a unique energy and spiritual atmosphere.

After the visit, return to Cusco.

Overnight in Cusco.

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Day 6: Cusco – Departure

After breakfast, enjoy some free time in Cusco for last-minute shopping or relaxation.

At the scheduled time, our staff will transfer you to Cusco Airport for your departure flight.

End of our services.

Tour Inclusions

• Airport reception and private transfers in Lima, Cusco, and train station transfers.

• 1 night accommodation in Lima (Miraflores district).

• 4 nights accommodation in Cusco and the Sacred Valley in carefully selected hotels.

• Domestic flight assistance for the route Lima – Cusco (flights can be arranged upon request).

• Professional English-speaking local tour guides for all scheduled excursions.

• Guided city tour in Cusco including visits to important historical landmarks and archaeological sites.

• Full-day guided tour to the Sacred Valley of the Incas including Chinchero, Moray, Maras Salt Mines, and Ollantaytambo.

• Round-trip scenic train journey to Machu Picchu.

• Bus transportation between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu citadel.

• Entrance ticket to the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu.

• Guided tour of Machu Picchu with a professional guide.

• Full-day guided excursion to Rainbow Mountain.

• Tourist transportation for all scheduled tours.

• Daily breakfast at the hotels.

• One lunch during the Sacred Valley tour.

• One breakfast and one lunch during the Rainbow Mountain excursion.

• Permanent assistance from our team during your entire trip.

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Tour Exclusions

• International flights to and from Peru.

• Domestic flights between Lima and Cusco (can be arranged upon request).

• Meals not specified in the itinerary.

• Travel insurance.

• Personal expenses such as souvenirs, laundry, or phone calls.

• Tips for guides, drivers, and service staff.

• Optional tours or additional activities not mentioned in the program.

• Entrance tickets to sites not listed in the inclusions.

Frequently Asked Questions – Lima to Machu Picchu Tour 6 Days

1. What is the best time of year to take this Lima to Machu Picchu tour?

This tour can be enjoyed year-round. The best months to travel are during the dry season, from May to September, when the weather is generally sunny and ideal for exploring Machu Picchu and hiking in the Andes. The rainy season runs from November to March, but the landscapes are greener and fewer tourists visit during this period.

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2. How difficult is the Rainbow Mountain hike?

The hike to Rainbow Mountain is considered moderate. The trail is relatively short, but the altitude is high (over 5,000 meters / 16,400 feet). A reasonable level of fitness and proper acclimatization in Cusco is recommended before attempting the hike.

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3. Do I need to acclimatize before visiting Cusco?

Yes. Cusco is located at 3,400 meters (11,155 feet) above sea level. Most travelers benefit from resting on the first day, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding heavy meals or alcohol. Our itinerary allows time to adapt to the altitude before visiting major attractions.

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4. What train service is used to travel to Machu Picchu?

The journey to Machu Picchu is typically done by tourist train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. The train ride is one of the highlights of the trip, offering spectacular views of the Sacred Valley of the Incas and the Urubamba River.

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5. How long is the guided tour of Machu Picchu?

The guided tour of Machu Picchu usually lasts around 2 to 3 hours. During this time, your professional guide will explain the history, architecture, and significance of this extraordinary Inca citadel.

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6. Is this tour suitable for all ages?

Yes, this tour is suitable for most travelers, including families and senior visitors. However, participants should be comfortable walking on uneven terrain and prepared for high-altitude environments.

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7. What type of accommodation is included?

The tour includes comfortable, well-located hotels in Lima, Cusco, and the Sacred Valley. Hotels are carefully selected to provide quality service, convenience, and a pleasant travel experience.

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8. Are meals included during the tour?

Daily breakfasts are included at the hotels. Additionally, lunch is included during the Sacred Valley excursion and the Rainbow Mountain tour. Other meals can be enjoyed at local restaurants recommended by your guide.

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9. How far in advance should I book this tour?

We recommend booking at least several weeks in advance, especially during the high travel season (May–September). Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu have limited daily availability and tend to sell out quickly.

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10. Can this tour be customized?

Yes. This Lima to Machu Picchu Tour 6 Days can be customized according to your travel preferences. We can upgrade hotels, add extra nights, include additional tours, or arrange private services to make your experience even more special.