Peru's Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Adventure

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1. 1

   Day 1 — Lima, Peru

   9 activities

   • 14:00 - 15:00Travel

     Arrival at Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) & Hotel Transfer

     Arrive at Lima's international airport. After clearing customs, meet your pre-arranged transfer for a comfortable ride to your hotel in the charming Barranco district, known for its bohemian vibe.

     Jorge Chávez International Airport, Callao, Peru~$60
     ArrivalAirportTransfer
   • 15:00 - 16:00Travel

     Hotel Check-in & Relaxation

     Check into your boutique hotel in Barranco. Take some time to freshen up, unpack, and relax after your journey, preparing for an evening of exploration in this artistic neighborhood.

     Hotel B, Sáenz Peña 204, Barranco 15063, Peru
     AccommodationRelaxation
   • 16:00 - 18:00Exploration

     Explore Barranco's Bohemian Charm

     Wander through the picturesque streets of Barranco, known for its colorful colonial mansions, street art, and artistic vibe. Visit the Bridge of Sighs (Puente de los Suspiros) and enjoy the ocean views from the Malecon.

     Puente de los Suspiros, Barranco, Peru
     CultureArtWalking
   • 18:00 - 19:30Sightseeing

     Sunset Walk along the Malecon de Barranco

     Enjoy a breathtaking sunset stroll along the clifftop Malecon de Barranco. The panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean are stunning, offering a serene end to your first day in Peru.

     Malecon de Barranco, Barranco, Peru
     SunsetOceanViews
   • 19:30 - 21:00Eating

     Dinner at Central (if booked far in advance) or Isolina Taberna Peruana

     Experience world-renowned Peruvian cuisine. If Central is not booked, enjoy traditional Peruvian comfort food at Isolina Taberna Peruana, celebrated for its authentic flavors and hearty dishes in a lively setting.

     Isolina Taberna Peruana, Av. San Martín 101, Barranco 15063, Peru~$80
     Peruvian CuisineFine DiningGastronomy
2. 2

   Day 2 — Lima, Peru

   11 activities

   • 09:00 - 10:00Eating

     Breakfast at Hotel B

     Enjoy a delicious breakfast at your hotel, featuring a selection of local and international dishes to energize you for a day of exploring Lima's historic center.

     Hotel B, Sáenz Peña 204, Barranco 15063, Peru
     BreakfastHotel Dining
   • 10:00 - 12:00Sightseeing

     Explore Plaza Mayor (Plaza de Armas)

     Discover the heart of Lima's historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Admire the Presidential Palace, the Cathedral of Lima, and the Archbishop's Palace, all showcasing impressive colonial architecture.

     Plaza Mayor de Lima, Cercado de Lima 15001, Peru
     HistoryArchitectureColonial
   • 12:00 - 13:30Exploration

     Visit the Basílica y Convento de San Francisco de Lima

     Explore this stunning 17th-century monastery, famous for its catacombs filled with thousands of human bones. The library and cloisters are also architectural marvels.

     Jirón Ancash 471, Cercado de Lima 15001, Peru~$10
     HistoryReligionCatacombs
   • 13:30 - 15:00Eating

     Lunch at Restaurante Cordano

     Dine at one of Lima's oldest and most iconic restaurants, a historic bar and eatery established in 1905. Enjoy classic Peruvian dishes in an authentic, nostalgic atmosphere.

     Jr. Áncash 202, Cercado de Lima 15001, Peru~$40
     TraditionalHistoricPeruvian Cuisine
   • 15:00 - 16:30Travel

     Return to hotel, collect luggage, and head to airport

     After a fulfilling exploration of Lima's historic core, return to your hotel to pick up your luggage. Then, proceed to Jorge Chávez International Airport for your evening flight to Cusco.

     Hotel B, Sáenz Peña 204, Barranco 15063, Peru
     TransferFlight prep
   • 16:30 - 19:00Travel

     Domestic Flight to Cusco

     Board your domestic flight from Lima to Cusco. This flight offers stunning aerial views as you transition from the coast to the Andes. Be prepared for the higher altitude upon arrival.

     Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ)~$100
     FlightDomestic Travel
3. 3

   Day 3 — Cusco, Peru

   5 activities

   • 19:00 - 19:30Travel

     Arrival in Cusco & Hotel Transfer

     Arrive at Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) in Cusco. Take a pre-arranged taxi to your hotel, allowing for a smooth transition to the high-altitude city.

     Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport, Cusco, Peru~$20
     ArrivalAirportTransfer
   • 19:30 - 20:30Travel

     Hotel Check-in & Acclimatization

     Check into your hotel in Cusco. The most important activity for your first evening is to rest and acclimatize to the high altitude (3,400m / 11,200ft). Drink coca tea and stay hydrated.

     JW Marriott Hotel Cusco, Esquina de la Calle Ruinas 432 y, C. San Agustin 400, Cusco 08002, Peru
     AccommodationAcclimatizationRest
   • 20:30 - 22:00Eating

     Light Dinner at Pachapapa Restaurant

     Enjoy a delicious and light dinner at Pachapapa, known for its traditional Andean cuisine, including excellent alpaca and trout dishes, in a charming courtyard setting near Plaza San Blas.

     Plazoleta San Blas 120, Cusco 08002, Peru~$50
     Andean CuisineTraditionalDinner
4. 4

   Day 4 — Cusco, Peru

   13 activities

   • 08:00 - 09:00Eating

     Breakfast at Hotel & Coca Tea

     Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel. Be sure to drink plenty of coca tea, a traditional remedy to help with altitude acclimatization, before a day of exploring Cusco.

     JW Marriott Hotel Cusco, Esquina de la Calle Ruinas 432 y, C. San Agustin 400, Cusco 08002, Peru
     BreakfastAltitude
   • 09:00 - 11:00Sightseeing

     Explore Plaza de Armas & Cusco Cathedral

     Wander through Cusco's vibrant main square, Plaza de Armas, a beautiful blend of Inca and Spanish colonial architecture. Visit the impressive Cusco Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing intricate artwork and history.

     Plaza de Armas, Cusco 08002, Peru~$10
     HistoryArchitectureColonial
   • 11:00 - 12:30Exploration

     Visit Coricancha (Temple of the Sun)

     Discover Coricancha, the most important temple in the Inca Empire, dedicated to the Sun God. Witness the incredible Inca stonework integrated with the Santo Domingo Convent, a testament to both cultures.

     Avenida El Sol, Cusco 08002, Peru~$15
     Inca HistoryArchaeologyReligious Site
   • 12:30 - 14:00Sightseeing

     Explore Sacsayhuaman

     Visit the impressive Inca fortress of Sacsayhuaman, a magnificent archaeological site with massive dry-stone walls. Enjoy panoramic views of Cusco from this strategic hilltop location.

     Sacsayhuaman, Cusco 08002, Peru~$70
     Inca RuinsFortressViews
   • 14:00 - 15:30Eating

     Lunch at Limbus Resto Bar (San Blas)

     Enjoy lunch at Limbus Resto Bar, offering not only delicious Peruvian fusion cuisine but also some of the best panoramic views of Cusco, especially from its outdoor terrace.

     Pasñapakana 133, Cusco 08002, Peru~$40
     Peruvian FusionViewsLunch
   • 15:30 - 17:00Exploration

     Wander through San Blas Neighborhood

     Explore the charming, bohemian district of San Blas, known for its narrow, cobbled streets, artisan workshops, and art galleries. Discover unique local crafts and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.

     Barrio de San Blas, Cusco 08002, Peru
     ArtisanShoppingCulture
   • 19:30 - 21:00Eating

     Dinner at Cicciolina

     Indulge in a sophisticated dinner at Cicciolina, a highly-rated restaurant offering Mediterranean-Andean fusion cuisine, known for its creative dishes and intimate atmosphere.

     Triunfo 393, 2nd Floor, Cusco 08002, Peru~$70
     Fusion CuisineFine DiningRomantic
5. 5

   Day 5 — Cusco, Peru

   13 activities

   • 08:00 - 09:00Eating

     Breakfast at Hotel

     Enjoy an early breakfast at your hotel before embarking on a full-day tour of the Sacred Valley, ensuring you're well-fueled for the day's adventures.

     JW Marriott Hotel Cusco, Esquina de la Calle Ruinas 432 y, C. San Agustin 400, Cusco 08002, Peru
     BreakfastHotel Dining
   • 09:00 - 12:00Exploration

     Explore Pisac Market & Ruins

     Visit the vibrant Pisac market, renowned for its traditional Andean crafts, textiles, and fresh produce. Afterwards, ascend to the impressive Pisac Inca ruins, offering breathtaking views of the valley and intricate agricultural terraces.

     Pisac Market & Ruins, Pisac, Peru~$20
     MarketInca RuinsShoppingCulture
   • 12:00 - 13:30Eating

     Lunch in Urubamba

     Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant in Urubamba, the largest town in the Sacred Valley. Many restaurants offer buffet-style Peruvian cuisine, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

     Urubamba, Cusco, Peru~$30
     Peruvian CuisineLunchLocal Food
   • 13:30 - 16:30Exploration

     Explore Ollantaytambo Fortress & Town

     Visit the magnificent Ollantaytambo fortress, a massive Inca archaeological site and a prime example of Inca urban planning and engineering. Afterwards, wander through the living Inca town below, with its original Inca walls and water channels.

     Ollantaytambo, Cusco, Peru
     Inca RuinsHistoryArchaeology
   • 16:30 - 18:30Travel

     Train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes

     Board a scenic train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). Enjoy the stunning views as the train winds along the Urubamba River, deep into the cloud forest.

     Ollantaytambo Train Station to Aguas Calientes Train Station~$70
     TrainScenic JourneyMachu Picchu Gateway
   • 18:30 - 19:00Travel

     Hotel Check-in in Aguas Calientes

     Check into your hotel in Aguas Calientes. This small town serves as the base for exploring Machu Picchu, offering a convenient location for an early start the next day.

     Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel, Av. Hermanos Ayar 403, Aguas Calientes, Peru
     AccommodationMachu Picchu Prep
   • 19:00 - 20:30Eating

     Dinner & Briefing for Machu Picchu

     Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Aguas Calientes. Afterwards, have a pre-Machu Picchu briefing with your guide (if applicable) to discuss the next day's plans and logistics.

     Indio Feliz Restaurant Bistro, Calle Lloque Yupanqui 103, Aguas Calientes, Peru~$40
     DinnerMachu Picchu Prep
6. 6

   Day 6 — Aguas Calientes, Peru

   13 activities

   • 08:00 - 09:00Eating

     Breakfast at Hotel

     Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel in Cusco before your transfer to the Sacred Valley. This will be your last meal in Cusco before heading towards Machu Picchu.

     JW Marriott Hotel Cusco, Esquina de la Calle Ruinas 432 y, C. San Agustin 400, Cusco 08002, Peru
     BreakfastHotel Dining
   • 09:00 - 11:00Travel

     Travel to Ollantaytambo Train Station

     Take a scenic private transfer through the Sacred Valley to the Ollantaytambo train station. Enjoy the stunning Andean landscapes and observe local life along the way.

     Ollantaytambo Train Station, Ollantaytambo, Peru
     TransferScenic Drive
   • 11:00 - 13:00Travel

     Scenic Train to Aguas Calientes

     Board the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. This picturesque journey follows the Urubamba River, transitioning from agricultural terraces to lush cloud forest, building anticipation for Machu Picchu.

     Ollantaytambo Train Station to Aguas Calientes Train Station
     TrainScenic JourneyMachu Picchu Gateway
   • 13:00 - 14:00Eating

     Hotel Check-in & Lunch in Aguas Calientes

     Check into your hotel in Aguas Calientes. After settling in, enjoy a casual lunch at a local eatery, fueling up for a relaxed afternoon exploring the town.

     Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel, Av. Hermanos Ayar 403, Aguas Calientes, Peru~$30
     AccommodationLunch
   • 14:00 - 16:00Exploration

     Explore Aguas Calientes Town & Artisan Market

     Wander through the bustling streets of Aguas Calientes. Browse the artisan market for souvenirs, textiles, and local crafts. Take in the unique atmosphere of this town nestled between mountains.

     Aguas Calientes Artisan Market, Aguas Calientes, Peru~$20
     ShoppingLocal CultureWalking
   • 16:00 - 18:00Event

     Relax at Aguas Calientes Hot Springs

     Unwind and soak in the natural thermal hot springs that give the town its name. It's a perfect way to relax your muscles before or after the trek to Machu Picchu, surrounded by lush mountain scenery.

     Aguas Calientes Thermal Baths, Aguas Calientes, Peru~$10
     RelaxationHot SpringsWellness
   • 19:00 - 20:30Eating

     Dinner at The Tree House Restaurant

     Enjoy a delightful dinner at The Tree House Restaurant, known for its creative Peruvian and international cuisine, fresh ingredients, and charming, rustic ambiance. Perfect for an evening meal before the big day.

     Ventitrecio de Julio 111, Aguas Calientes, Peru~$50
     Peruvian CuisineInternationalDinner
7. 7

   Day 7 — Aguas Calientes, Peru

   12 activities

   • 05:00 - 05:30Travel

     Early Morning Bus to Machu Picchu

     Wake up early for the short but scenic bus ride from Aguas Calientes up to the entrance of Machu Picchu. This early start helps beat the crowds and allows for a magical sunrise experience.

     Bus stop, Av. Hermanos Ayar, Aguas Calientes, Peru~$24
     Machu PicchuEarly StartBus
   • 05:30 - 10:00Sightseeing

     Explore Machu Picchu Citadel

     Spend the morning exploring the magnificent Inca citadel of Machu Picchu with a knowledgeable guide. Discover its temples, terraces, and residential areas, learning about its history and mysteries. Witness the iconic sunrise over the ruins.

     Machu Picchu, Aguas Calientes, Peru~$60
     Machu PicchuInca RuinsWorld HeritageTrek
   • 10:00 - 12:30Exploration

     Hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (if booked)

     For those with pre-booked permits, embark on a challenging but rewarding hike up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for unparalleled panoramic views of the citadel and surrounding Andean landscape.

     Huayna Picchu Mountain, Machu Picchu, Peru~$20
     HikingAdventureViewsTrek
   • 12:30 - 13:30Eating

     Bus back to Aguas Calientes & Lunch

     Take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes. Find a casual spot for a well-deserved lunch, reflecting on your incredible Machu Picchu experience.

     Aguas Calientes, Peru~$30
     LunchRest
   • 13:30 - 15:30Travel

     Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo/Poroy

     Board your return train from Aguas Calientes. Depending on your schedule, you'll either go back to Ollantaytambo or directly to Poroy, closer to Cusco, enjoying more stunning Andean scenery.

     Aguas Calientes Train Station to Ollantaytambo Train Station
     TrainReturn Journey
   • 15:30 - 17:00Travel

     Transfer to Cusco Hotel

     Upon arrival at Ollantaytambo or Poroy train station, a pre-arranged transfer will take you back to your hotel in Cusco, allowing you to relax after your epic Machu Picchu adventure.

     Ollantaytambo Train Station to JW Marriott Hotel Cusco
     TransferAccommodation
   • 19:00 - 20:30Eating

     Dinner at Chicha por Gastón Acurio

     Celebrate your Machu Picchu accomplishment with a fine dining experience at Chicha, a restaurant by famous chef Gastón Acurio, offering modern interpretations of traditional Cusquenian dishes.

     Plaza Regocijo 261, 2nd Floor, Cusco 08002, Peru~$70
     Fine DiningPeruvian CuisineCelebration
8. 8

   Day 8 — Cusco, Peru

   10 activities

   • 04:00 - 04:30Travel

     Early Morning Departure for Rainbow Mountain

     Embark on an adventurous full-day trip to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca). An early start is necessary to beat the crowds and experience the mountain's vibrant colors in the best light.

     Hotel Pick-up in Cusco
     AdventureTrekkingEarly Start
   • 04:30 - 08:00Travel

     Drive to Rainbow Mountain Trailhead & Breakfast

     Journey through stunning Andean landscapes to the trailhead near Pitumarca or Japura. Enjoy a rustic breakfast provided by your tour operator to fuel up for the challenging hike ahead.

     Pitumarca or Japura Trailhead, Cusco Region, Peru
     Scenic DriveBreakfastTrek Prep
   • 08:00 - 10:00Exploration

     Trek to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)

     Embark on a challenging trek to the vibrant Vinicunca, or Rainbow Mountain. The hike takes you through high-altitude Andean terrain, culminating in breathtaking views of the mountain's distinctive colored stripes.

     Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain), Pitumarca, Peru
     TrekkingAdventureNatureViews
   • 10:00 - 11:30Exploration

     Descent from Rainbow Mountain

     Descend from the summit of Rainbow Mountain back to the trailhead. The descent is generally easier but still requires careful footing. Take in the views from a different perspective.

     Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain), Pitumarca, Peru
     TrekkingDescentNature
   • 11:30 - 18:00Eating

     Lunch & Return to Cusco

     Enjoy a well-deserved lunch at a local restaurant near the trailhead before beginning the long drive back to Cusco. Relax and reflect on the stunning landscapes you've witnessed.

     Pitumarca or Japura Trailhead, Cusco Region, Peru~$20
     LunchTravel
   • 19:30 - 21:00Eating

     Dinner at Inkazuela Restaurant

     Savor a comforting dinner at Inkazuela, known for its hearty and delicious 'cazuelas' (stews) served in traditional clay pots. A perfect warm meal after a day of high-altitude trekking.

     Plazoleta Nazarenas 181, Cusco 08002, Peru~$45
     Traditional PeruvianComfort FoodDinner
9. 9

   Day 9 — Cusco, Peru

   11 activities

   • 08:30 - 09:30Eating

     Breakfast at Hotel

     Enjoy a final breakfast at your Cusco hotel. Take time to relax and recharge after your trek, preparing for another day of cultural exploration before heading back to Lima.

     JW Marriott Hotel Cusco, Esquina de la Calle Ruinas 432 y, C. San Agustin 400, Cusco 08002, Peru
     BreakfastHotel Dining
   • 09:30 - 11:30Exploration

     Visit Moray Agricultural Terraces

     Explore the fascinating Inca agricultural terraces of Moray, believed to be an experimental agricultural station. The circular depressions create microclimates, showcasing advanced Inca agricultural knowledge.

     Moray, Maras 08655, Peru~$70
     Inca RuinsAgricultureArchaeology
   • 11:30 - 13:00Sightseeing

     Explore Maras Salt Mines

     Discover the ancient Maras Salt Mines, a breathtaking patchwork of thousands of salt pans carved into the mountainside. Observe the traditional salt extraction methods used since Inca times.

     Salineras de Maras, Maras 08655, Peru~$10
     Natural WonderCultureScenery
   • 13:00 - 14:30Eating

     Lunch & Chinchero Textile Center

     Enjoy a traditional Peruvian lunch in Chinchero. Afterwards, visit a cooperative textile center to learn about traditional weaving techniques passed down through generations and witness the natural dyeing processes.

     Chinchero, Cusco, Peru~$30
     Local CraftsCultureShopping
   • 14:30 - 16:00Travel

     Return to Cusco & Airport Transfer

     After exploring the Sacred Valley, return to Cusco. Collect your luggage from the hotel and proceed to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport for your evening flight back to Lima.

     JW Marriott Hotel Cusco to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ)~$20
     TransferFlight Prep
   • 16:00 - 19:00Travel

     Domestic Flight Cusco to Lima

     Board your domestic flight from Cusco back to Lima. This concludes your Andean adventure and brings you back to the capital for your final evening in Peru.

     Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) to Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM)
     FlightDomestic Travel
10. 9

    Day 9 — Lima, Peru

    3 activities

    • 19:00 - 19:30Travel

      Airport Transfer & Hotel Check-in (Lima Airport)

      Upon arrival at Lima's Jorge Chávez International Airport, check into the convenient airport hotel. This allows for a stress-free departure the following morning.

      Wyndham Costa del Sol Lima Airport, Av. Elmer Faucett s/n, Callao 07031, Peru
      AccommodationAirport Hotel
    • 19:30 - 21:00Eating

      Farewell Dinner at Hotel Restaurant

      Enjoy a relaxed farewell dinner at the hotel's restaurant. Reflect on your incredible Peruvian adventure and savor a final taste of local or international cuisine before your departure.

      Wyndham Costa del Sol Lima Airport, Av. Elmer Faucett s/n, Callao 07031, Peru~$60
      DinnerHotel Dining
11. 10

    Day 10 — Lima, Peru

    3 activities

    • 08:00 - 09:00Eating

      Breakfast at Hotel

      Enjoy a final breakfast at your airport hotel before heading to the departure gate. This provides a relaxed start to your travel day.

      Wyndham Costa del Sol Lima Airport, Av. Elmer Faucett s/n, Callao 07031, Peru
      BreakfastHotel Dining
    • 09:00 - 12:00Travel

      Departure from Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM)

      Proceed to the airport terminal for check-in and security for your international departure. Allow ample time for airport procedures.

      Jorge Chávez International Airport, Callao, Peru
      DepartureAirport

Where to Stay

• Lima, Peru

  Hotel B

  $350.0 / night2 nights4.8
  Luxury boutique experienceExcellent dining optionsArt-filled historic mansion
• Cusco, Peru

  JW Marriott Hotel Cusco

  $400.0 / night4 nights4.7
  Luxurious comfort in a historic buildingExcellent service and amenitiesOxygen-enriched rooms for altitude sickness
• Aguas Calientes, Peru

  Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel

  $450.0 / night1 nights4.6
  Luxury stay near Machu PicchuExcellent service and amenitiesRiverside views
• Cusco, Peru

  JW Marriott Hotel Cusco

  $400.0 / night2 nights4.7
  Luxurious comfort in a historic buildingExcellent service and amenitiesOxygen-enriched rooms for altitude sickness
• Lima, Peru

  Wyndham Costa del Sol Lima Airport

  $200.0 / night1 nights4.2
  Direct access to the airport terminalConvenient for early morning flightsComfortable and quiet rooms
• Lima, Peru

  Wyndham Costa del Sol Lima Airport

  $200.0 / night1 nights4.2
  Direct access to the airport terminalConvenient for early morning flightsComfortable and quiet rooms