Immersive Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu – 7 Days

This 7-day journey offers a deeper exploration of Peru’s Andean heartland, expanding beyond the classic highlights to include the region’s agricultural innovation, living traditions, and layered history.

Beginning in the Sacred Valley for a comfortable arrival, you’ll explore iconic Inca sites, traditional Andean towns, and the extraordinary citadel of Machu Picchu with private guides throughout. Additional time in Moray and the Maras salt ponds introduces the ingenuity of Inca agricultural design and the continuity of local traditions, while extended time in Cusco provides broader historical context and space to experience the city beyond its main square.

Thoughtfully structured with balance and flexibility, this itinerary is ideal for travelers who want a fuller regional perspective while maintaining a comfortable, family-friendly pace.

This itinerary begins and ends in Cusco (CUZ). International travelers typically connect through Lima before continuing to Cusco.

Day 1 – Arrival → Sacred Valley

• Private airport pickup in Cusco

• Scenic drive into the Sacred Valley (lower elevation for easier acclimation)

• Hotel check-in and time to rest

• Evening free to relax and settle in

We begin in the Sacred Valley intentionally, allowing for a more comfortable adjustment to altitude after international travel.

Day 2 – Sacred Valley Exploration

• Morning visit to the Pisac Archaeological Site

• Lunch in Urubamba

• Guided exploration of Ollantaytambo fortress and town

• Return to your Sacred Valley hotel

• Evening free to unwind

Day 3 – Moray & Maras Cultural Landscapes

• Guided visit to Moray’s circular agricultural terraces

• Exploration of the Maras salt ponds

• Optional stop in a traditional weaving community

• Afternoon free to rest

This day expands the journey beyond the main corridor, offering insight into Inca agricultural innovation and the region’s enduring traditions.

Day 4 – Machu Picchu Experience → Cusco

• Scenic morning train through the Sacred Valley

• Guided visit to Machu Picchu (subject to availability)

• Time for photos and reflection

• Afternoon return train

• Private transfer to your hotel in Cusco

• Evening free to rest or explore nearby cafés

It’s a full but thoughtfully paced day, allowing you to experience Machu Picchu without feeling rushed.

Day 5 – Cusco Cultural Exploration

• Relaxed morning start

• Half-day guided exploration of Cusco, including Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, Qorikancha, and Sacsayhuamán

• Afternoon free to shop, visit cafés, or simply enjoy the city at your own pace

This day provides historical context that ties together everything you’ve seen in the Sacred Valley and at Machu Picchu.

Day 6 – Cusco Immersive Experience

• Guided visit to San Pedro Market

• Walk through the San Blas artisan neighborhood

• Optional hands-on cultural experience

• Afternoon free to explore at your own pace

This additional day in Cusco offers a more personal connection to the city’s living culture.

Day 7 – Departure

• Breakfast at your hotel

• Private airport transfer

This sample outline serves as a starting point. Each journey is adjusted based on your travel dates, pace preferences, and selected experiences.

• Private airport transfers and transportation throughout the itinerary

• Licensed, English-speaking local guides for all guided tours

• Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu (subject to availability)

• Round-trip train service to and from Aguas Calientes (Expedition class)

• Round-trip bus transportation between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu

• All entrance fees to included archaeological sites, including Moray and Maras

• Accommodation in 3-star hotels (double occupancy)

• Daily breakfast at your hotel

• Personalized trip planning and seamless coordination with our local team

• International airfare to and from Peru

• Travel insurance (strongly recommended)

• Meals not specified in the itinerary

• Personal expenses (souvenirs, additional snacks, etc.)

• Optional upgrades or add-on excursions

• Gratuities for guides and drivers

Upon arrival at Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco, a member of our local team will greet you in the arrivals area and transfer you directly to your hotel in the Sacred Valley.

All scheduled activities include private transportation with coordinated hotel pickup and drop-off. Train and bus transfers to and from Machu Picchu are arranged in advance, and confirmed meeting times will be provided so you always know where to be and when.

From arrival through departure, transportation for all included activities is fully handled for you.

This itinerary can be customized to fit your travel dates, interests, and preferred pace. Hotel upgrades, additional experiences, and adjusted activity levels are available upon request. Final pricing varies by season and group size.

Altitude Considerations

Cusco sits at approximately 11,150 feet (3,400 meters) above sea level. Because this itinerary begins in the Sacred Valley, at a lower elevation, most travelers find the transition more comfortable. We recommend staying well hydrated and taking it easy upon arrival. With additional time built into this itinerary, most travelers find the pace allows for a smooth and comfortable adjustment.

Optional Add-On: Rainbow Mountain may be added for active travelers with sufficient acclimation time. We are happy to discuss whether this excursion is a good fit during the planning process.