This 5-day Cusco Machu Picchu Luxury Tour offers a deeper understanding of the Inca civilization, combining history, culture, and stunning landscapes in a luxury experience. Accompanied by a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, you’ll gain profound insight into the former capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco, and the remains of their iconic citadel, Machu Picchu.
Indulge in ultimate luxury as you explore Machu Picchu and the surrounding Inca ruins. As one of Samex Tours Peru’s signature tours, we provide dedicated local guides who will cater to your needs while immersing you in Peruvian culture and history.
Be amazed by the seamless blend of Spanish colonial and Inca architecture in Cusco City, where the streets and surrounding archaeological sites are laid out in the shape of a puma, symbolizing power and protection.
Drive through the serene Sacred Valley, surrounded by majestic mountains and lush landscapes, while breathing in the crisp, fresh air. Finally, experience the mystique and awe of Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas, which is often considered the crowning achievement of the journey.
Feast your eyes on the intricate stonework, majestic temples, and the breathtaking panoramic views, where the spirits of the ancient Inca still seem to whisper their forgotten stories.
Upon landing at Cusco Airport, your adventure begins right away. A warm welcome awaits you from our friendly Samex Tours Peru representative, who will escort you to your hotel in a private vehicle. As we drive through the historical streets of Cusco, the former heart of the Inca Empire, you’ll feel the ancient energy that continues to pulse through this vibrant city. Along the way, we’ll review your itinerary, answer any questions, and offer helpful tips to ensure you get the most out of your stay. Once you check into your hotel, you’ll have the rest of the day to either explore the city or simply relax and adjust to the altitude.
After breakfast, at 9:30 am, your Samex Tours guide will pick you up at your hotel for a fascinating city tour. We’ll begin at Plaza de Armas, the heart of Cusco, where you’ll visit the stunning Cathedral of Cusco. This architectural masterpiece combines Inca stonework with Spanish colonial design, offering a glimpse into the city’s complex history.
Next, we’ll walk to the Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), once the most important spiritual site in the Inca Empire. Marvel at the precision of Inca masonry and learn about the site’s significance, especially the golden coverings once adorning the temple.
We’ll then head outside Cusco to Sacsayhuaman, a massive Inca fortress renowned for its giant stones, some weighing up to 200 tons. The sheer scale of the stonework and the views from the site are impressive. Our journey continues to Qenqo, a sacred site filled with altars and tunnels believed to have been used for Inca rituals.
We’ll also visit Puca Pucara, a former military checkpoint with breathtaking views of the surrounding valley, and Tambomachay, famous for its ceremonial fountains, which were likely used for royal bathing rituals.
This tour will give you a deeper understanding of Cusco’s rich Inca heritage, blending spiritual sites, military history, and extraordinary architecture. After a day of exploration, you’ll return to your hotel to relax and reflect on this captivating experience.
Overnight: Cusco.
After breakfast at your hotel, your Samex Tours Peru guide will meet you at 7:00 am and transport you to the village of Chinchero. Here, you’ll witness local women performing traditional weaving demonstrations. You’ll learn how they wash, dye, and spin alpaca wool into colorful textiles. These skilled artisans will even make alpaca jumpers right in front of you while dressed in traditional attire, providing a hands-on cultural experience.
Next, we’ll continue to Maras, a picturesque village where you’ll stroll through its charming streets and have the opportunity to taste the famous Chicha, a traditional corn drink used in Incan ceremonies.
From Maras, we’ll head to Moray, an intriguing archaeological site that served as an agricultural center for the Incas. The concentric circular terraces were designed to create microclimates, allowing the Incas to experiment with different crops at various altitudes, contributing to agricultural advancements.
After exploring Moray, we’ll visit the Maras Salt Mines (Salineras), a unique site where salt is still extracted through traditional methods. Over 3,000 small salt ponds have been in use since Inca times, and the site holds great historical and economic significance.
Following this, we’ll drive to Urubamba for a delicious buffet lunch (not included). Then, we’ll head to Ollantaytambo, an ancient Inca town built by Pachacutec. Explore the archaeological site, including the Temple of the Sun, and learn about the town’s strategic importance.
In the afternoon, we’ll board the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town) for an overnight stay. Upon arrival, our hotel staff will greet you and transfer you to your hotel, where we’ll brief you on your guided tour the following day.
Overnight: Aguas Calientes.
The most anticipated day of your journey has arrived! After a delicious early breakfast, your Samex Tours Peru guide will meet you between 6:30 am and 7:00 am, and we’ll embark on a scenic 30-minute bus ride to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu—one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Get ready for a fascinating guided tour where your expert guide will unveil the mysteries of this ancient marvel. Explore iconic landmarks such as the Temple of the Sun, the enigmatic Intihuatana stone, and the Royal Tomb, each with its own intriguing story from the glorious days of the Inca Empire. The stunning beauty and advanced engineering of Machu Picchu will leave you in awe.
After the tour, enjoy some free time to wander, reflect, or simply relax as you absorb the spiritual energy of this mystical site. Then, we’ll return to Aguas Calientes for a leisurely lunch (not included), surrounded by the beauty of the lush jungle.
In the afternoon, we’ll board the train back to Ollantaytambo, where our private transport will then take you on a scenic drive back to Cusco, arriving by 6:30 pm.
Overnight: Cusco.
After a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, today is yours to explore Cusco at your own pace. You can relax or delve deeper into the fascinating history and vibrant culture of this incredible city.
For those wishing to enhance their adventure, we offer a variety of optional tours, such as:
If you prefer a more relaxed day, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Cusco’s iconic Plaza de Armas, explore local art galleries, or shop for unique handmade souvenirs.
In the late afternoon or evening, your Samex Tours Peru guide will be available to assist with any arrangements or offer additional recommendations for the rest of your stay in Cusco.
Overnight in Cusco.
Your Samex Tours Peru guide or representative will meet you at your hotel and transfer you to Cusco’s airport for your flight back to Lima or onward to your next destination.
As you bid farewell to Cusco, take with you unforgettable memories of the majestic Inca ruins, the breathtaking landscapes, and the rich cultural heritage that made this trip truly special.
End of Tour – Safe travels, and we hope to welcome you again on your next adventure!
International air tickets.
Domestic air tickets (Lima – Cusco – Lima).
Wayna Picchu admission ticket (US$ 65), must be requested at the time of booking and will be provided if available.
One-way Vistadome train upgrade (US$ 95).
Meals (Lunch, Dinner).
Travel insurance (Highly recommended).
Additional and personal expenses (laundry, telephone calls, snacks).
Gratuity (optional).
Original passport.
Original International Student Identity Card (if applicable, for student discount).
Travel insurance.
Rain poncho (plastic).
Warm jacket or coat.
Sunscreen.
Cap or hat.
Sunglasses.
Extra clothing (including layers for changing weather conditions).
Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers.
Suitable shoes for walking in Machu Picchu.
Water bottle.
Insect repellent.
Camera or smartphone for photos.
Toiletries.
Day pack.
Ear plugs for sleeping comfort.
Water and snacks.
Slippers or sandals (for showers and Hot Springs).
Bathing suit (for the Hot Springs in Aguas Calientes).
Extra money.
I recently had the pleasure of experiencing the Luxury Highlights of Cusco and Machu Picchu tour, and it was truly unforgettable. From the moment I landed in Cusco, I was greeted with warmth and hospitality, setting the tone for an incredible journey through Peru’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes.
The tour began with a captivating half-day exploration of Cusco city, where we delved into the fascinating blend of Inca and Spanish cultures. Our guide’s expertise brought the ancient sites to life, providing insights that enriched the experience.
Venturing into the Sacred Valley was a highlight of the tour, with visits to Pisac and Ollantaytambo offering glimpses into the Inca civilization’s ingenuity and craftsmanship. The scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes was a treat in itself, offering stunning views of the Peruvian highlands.
