cusco cultural tours

Luxury Cultural Cusco & Machu Picchu Tour 4D/3N

Private & Tailored Tour

From $1077 PP

Overview

This is the perfect itinerary for those looking for the best highlights from the Cusco region. Glamping Peru Treks  will take you a luxurious trip, staying in the best hotels in the region. Visit the Imperial City of Cusco, the most important Inca sites in the Sacred Valley and the the majestic Machu Picchu, the UNESCO World Heritage site rich in history of its past and the thriving culture of the people who once resided there.

Glamping Peru  will take you on an exclusive tour to greats historical sites like the military structure of Sacsayhuaman. Visit the most important temple of the Inca Empire, Korichancha ( the temple of the sun), where the Spanish build the church of Santa Domingo. a true reflection of how the Spanish overcame the very strong cultural ties of the Incas. Visit carefully selected archeological sites  in the  Sacred Valley. Enjoy the most pampered, relaxed and comprehensive tour of the Cusco region.

Activities

Sightseeing Tours & Cultural, religious and historic sites

Experts

Private Guide, Driver, Trip Managing Expert

Activity Level

Easy

SERVICES

Minimum 2 people

Itinerary Details

Upon your arrival to Cusco, you will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. There, receive a short briefing, with the rest of the morning at your leisure to rest and acclimatize to the altitude.

In the afternoon, at 1pm, pick up at the hotel and start our visit of the Imperial city of  Cusco, a living example of the fascinating mix of Andean and Spanish cultures. We begin our journey visiting the Santo Domingo Convent, built over Koricancha Temple, an ancient Incan Palace and main worship center of the Sun God. After enjoying this beautiful and historic sight, we proceed to visit the archaeological site of Sacsayhuaman. This massive site, whose walls contain stones that each weighing several tons, has a military style type of Inca architecture, which still stands guard over the city.

Later, visit the archaeological sites of QenqoPucapucara and Tambomachay, located in the northeast part of the city. This is a leisurely and pretty relaxing day. A great way to get acquainted with Cusco. A small taste of the amazing sights and adventures that lay in store for you. We will take you back to your hotel in the early evening.

  • 5* Accommodation:  Aranwa

Pick up in our private van from your hotel at 7:30am, drive towards the Sacred Valley of the Incas, to Pisac. Stop along the way at the Taray outlook to have a classic view of the Urubamba valley, with crops filling the valley like a colorful carpet. Afterwards, we will go to the archeological site of Pisac, where we will enjoy the great and unique ancient Inca tombs, terraces, watch towers and religious area. Then we arrive at the quaint market of Pisac, have free time to interact with the local artisans and purchase their hand-made souvenirs.

After having lunch in Urubamba, we journey to the archeological site of Moray, also known as The Greenhouses of the Incas, which is unique and fascinating. Different levels of terraces are carved into a huge circular shape, built down into a natural basin, part of which was further excavated by the Incas. The terraces have varied microclimates depending on how deep into the site they are, they were thought to have been used by the Incas to discover the optimal growing conditions for their crops. We proceed on our journey towards the colonial town of Maras, where we will hike downhill to the pre-Inca salt mines. Thousands of saltpans have been used for salt extractions since before Inca times. A hot spring at the top of the valley discharges a small stream of heavily salt laden water, which is diverted into saltpans and evaporated to produce salt. This is one of the few places in the world where you can find naturally pink salt!

Finally, we drive to Ollantaytambo, where we explore this  archeological site for 1.5 hours and admire the water fountains, the Sun Temple, the Incahuatana and the impressive storehouses. Finally, you head out for dinner before settling into your luxurious hotel for the night. Try a traditional Peruvian cocktail like Pisco Sour or Chilcano or recharge your batteries with a traditional massage.

  • 4* Accommodation:
  • Meal included: Breakfast at your hotel

Wake up early to rise to a new day of adventure when you will finally get to see the majestic Machu Picchu! We pick you up at your hotel at 7:45am and drive in our private van to the Ollantaytambo Train Station to leave on the Vistadome train at 8:35am. 

Travel through the Andean meadows, nestled amongst the high white peaks and deep valleys: Out the windows you will see layers of handmade Inca farming terraces, ridges of snow capped mountains and sub-tropical jungle. As you near Machu Picchu, you are also closer to the Amazon. From Ollantaytambo, the sacred Vilcanota River will be our companion until our arrival in Aguas Calientes.

The guide will meet you at the train station at 10:52am. Have a little time to get a snack or sandwich for an early lunch before being transferred to Machu Picchu (2,040m/7,907ft) on the shuttle bus. Following in the ancient and remote footsteps of the Lost City of the Incas, listen attentively to your guide sharing the cultural legacy of the history of Machu Picchu. You will then have some free time to explore and take photos. Returning to Aguas Calientes, catch the Vistadome train at 5:23pm to Poroy, where we take you back to your hotel in Cusco, arriving approximately at 10pm.  **See note below for rainy season.

  • Meals: Snack and hot drinks provided on the train
  • 5* Accommodation: Antigua Casona San Blas or Aranwa
  • Meals: Breakfast

***Note that from January through April the Vistadome Train runs only from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu and from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo train Station. During this time, PeruRail will offer this service in bimodal, with a Peru Rail bus between Cusco to Ollantaytambo. 

VISTADOME CLASS TRAIN

The Vistadome train is the ideal for those who want to be in contact with the environment and appreciate the wonderful journey to Machu Picchu.  Tantalize your senses through a sophisticated and sensory travel experience with the best in comfort and quality service!

Surrounded by glass, in cars with large panoramic windows on the side and ceiling. It offers incomparable scenic views and will provide numerous opportunities to capture amazing pictures. The Vistadome train has a unique service, which allows the traveller to be immersed in Andean culture through its landscapes, music and dance.

The Vistadome train provides travellers with on board first class personalized service and an unforgettable lifetime experience!  It also has air conditioning, heating and  leather seats that adjust the body to provide comfort and relaxation during the entire trip.

Start your journey at the Poroy station located about 25 minutes from Cusco. This journey leading to Machu Picchu lasts just over three hours to the town of Aguas Calientes. Peru Rail is concerned about every detail of a passengers’ needs in this unique experience.

Your return journey from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo lasts- 2 hours.  When you arrive at Ollantaytambo, transfer by our private van back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel at about 10pm.

**Hiking Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mt. not possible with the time schedule of a one-day tour. If you would like to endulge in any of these hikes, we can help you book an extra day in Aguas Calientes and book your train for the next day, at an extra fee. We specialize in personalised tours, for any requests please contact our office and we will do our best to accommodate your needs whenever possible

Our incredible journey ends here. Airport drop-off is included and it can be done at any time (We will need your flights details to coordinate drop off).

  • Meals: Breakfast

WHAT IS INCLUDED

 A hand-crafted and fully personalized Premium Package from start to finish.

  • Briefing: We give you all the information needed in order for you to have a pleasant trek with very little surprises. The best part is that we will conduct your briefing in the comfort of your hotel.
  • 2 Bus tickets: You get a bus ride from Aguas Calientes up to Machu Picchu and back.
  • Entrance Tickets into Machu Picchu : As soon as you confirm your booking and pay the deposit, we will purchase your entrance tickets into Machu Picchu. These tickets sell out very fast. Our super team behind the laptops ensure that all tickets and permits are purchased in a timely manner and you don’t miss out on your great adventure. The personal information you give us has to be 100% accurate because even our awesome team won´t be able help edit details once they have purchased the tickets on your behalf and there are absolutely no refunds on the tickets.
  • Boleto Turistico : This is the best way to visit all the archeological sites of the region and the Sacred Valley. Most of the main archeological sites are not accessible for free.
  • Professional Bilingual Guide: You will have a guide thats highly professional, experienced and fluent in English throughout your tour. They are very knowledgeable and passionate about Inca heritage and history. You will get a two hour fully guided tour of Machu PicchuOur guides dedicate themselves to continuous professional development and growth to ensure that you receive accurate and recognized theories about Inca and Andean culture. They are fun loving, great sportsmen and well–educated, they hold a degree in at least one of the following: Archaeology, Tourism, Botany, History or Anthropology.
  • Taxes:  All prices include the 18% tax charged by the government

Luxury Amenities and Equipment:  

  • Luxury Accommodation : Enjoy a 3 nights booked in the most luxurious hotels in Cusco.  
  • 2 tickets on the Vistadome Train : Catch the luxurious Vistadome and enjoy their first class service. On-board the train at Poroy station to Aguas Calientes and return to Poroy station ( Dry season only). During rainy season we will drive you by our private van to Ollataytambo and back. The train does not depart from Poroy because of possible land slides
  • Drinks: In our private transportation, you will find a cooler box stocked with ice cold drinks, both non-alcoholic (water, gatorade etc..) and alcoholic (beer, wine and much more)

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED

  • Meals not included in itinerary
  • Entrance fee to the hot springs of Aguas Calientes (10 soles)
  • Entrance of Huayna Picchu: $75 USD
  • Entrance to Machu Picchu Mountain: $75 USD
  • Tips for guide of  Glamping Peru Treks

PRICES:

This fantastic package can be done on any date that is best for you as long as we have a minimum of 2 participants.

$1077USD per person Vistadome & 5*****

Hotel (2 nights) and 4**** Hotel (1 night)

***All entrance fees are included and we operate our tours in small groups averaging 4 people with a maximum of 8!  

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR YOUR TOUR

Please read the following information carefully as it will help answer all of your questions about our services and Cusco Machu Picchu tour

ARRIVAL TO CUSCO

We will greet you at the airport in Cusco and take you to your hotel. Please ensure that you inform us of your flight details at least 14 days prior to your arrival. Look for our representative holding a Glamping Peru Treks board at the arrivals terminal.

THE BRIEFING

Your briefing will take place in the comfort of your hotel, the night before your trek.

CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE AT YOUR OFFICE?

Of course! During the Cusco to Machu Picchu Tour, your main luggage can be stored at our office or at your hotel, whichever is more convenient for you.

HOW TO BOOK THE TOUR?

FIRST, to book your Cusco to Machu Picchu tour, we need you to fill out our booking form by clicking on BOOK NOW on our homepage or click the link BOOK NOW.

Please, be ready with the following information (FROM EACH PARTICIPANT in your group).  We cannot purchase an an entrance to Machu Picchu or the train without the following information:

  • Personal information (your full name, exactly as it appears on your passport):
  • Gender
  • Passport number
  • D.O.B. (dd / mm / yyyy)
  • Nationality

SECOND, we require a deposit of $525.00 USD per person in order to purchase your entrance to Machu Picchu and train tickets.  You can make your deposit by clicking on the VISA or PAYPAL symbols on the top of our home page, or you can click on the VISA or PAYPAL symbols on our booking page.

WHAT ABOUT THE REMAINING BALANCE?

To avoid the excessive credit card fees in Peru, you can pay in cash at our office (we accept US dollars or Peruvian soles) in Cusco. We have many ATMs within the historical center to withdraw money.  You can also pay by VISA or PAYPAL online but there is a 5.5% service charge, charged by VISA and PAYPAL.  To pay your balance through PAYPAL, you need to log into your PAYPAL account and use our email address glampingperutreks@gmail.com to complete the payment.

MAY I CHANGE THE DEPARTURE DATE AFTER THE TICKETS HAVE BEEN BOUGHT?

Unfortunately, the answer is No. Once the tickets have been bought the government does not allow any changes, so we can’t change any departure date after the tickets has been bought. Tickets are also not transferable nor refundable.
*** If you cancel your Cusco to Machu Picchu Tour, the deposit is non-refundable!

DO I NEED MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT FOR THE CUSCO MACHU PICCHU TOUR

Yes! You have to bring your original passport as it is very important, in order, to gain entry onto trains, Machu Picchu and other sites. You must bring the same passport that you used to book with us from the start.

In case, you are renewing your passport or changing your name, go ahead and send us your old passport information to secure your permit. We can change it when you get your new passport or have updated your name for a fee of $25 USD per person.  We must have a copy of your old and new passport to make the change.

If you do not wish to pay this fee, you will need to bring both your old and new passports to Peru.  You can enter Peru with your new passport but you will need to show both old and new passports to enter Machu Picchu and other sites.  If you do not have both, you will not be allowed enter into these amazing sites.

WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE ?

The weather is very unpredictable and it’s difficult to foresee. We recommend dressing in layers as it makes it easier to adjust to the various microclimates you will pass through.

WHAT ABOUT ALTITUDE SICKNESS 

In general, if you excerise regularly and spend a couple of days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, you will be able to acclimate normally. It usually takes between 1 to 2 day. Always consult your doctor before international travel.

We recommend the following remedies for altitude sickness: WATER, COCA TEA and OXYGEN (when needed). GPT trains all its guides to treat you for altitude sickness. For more detailed information on altitude sickness click this link: Altitude Sickness.

HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE THERE PER GROUP?

The maximum group size is 8 persons. Usually our groups are between 2-4 people. Glamping Peru Treks specializes in SMALL, PRIVATE groups while providing a personalized service.

ARE WE DROPPED OFF AT OUR HOTEL AFTER THE TOUR

Absolutely! Included in our packages is dropping you off at your hotel on the return from your trek or tour. If you have booked your hotel in the Sacred Valley like Ollantaytambo or Urubamba, we will drop you there too!

If you spend the night at Ollantaytambo before the trek, we wil pick you up there.

TIPPING

If you’re happy with the services provided, a tip – though not compulsory – the staff do appreciate it. While it may not be customary in your country, it’s of great significance for the people who will take care of you during the tour.  It inspires excellent service and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many Glamping Peru Treks destinations. Of course, you are free to tip what you feel is  appropriate, depending on your perception on the quality of service and the length of your tour. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and you should only give it when you receive excellent service.

ARE YOU SUSTAINABLE?

Yes, we are a local, sustainable & responsible tourism operator that incorporates universal principles of tourism: protect the environment and benefit the local communities by respecting their culture and religion. With this in mind, we have trained all our local staff to know and understand, respect the places and the local people.

WHAT TO BRING FOR THE CUSCO TO MACHU PICCHU TOUR

  • A small backpack or carry bag (larger backpacks are not allowed on the train or in Machu Picchu)
  • Change of clothing
  • Comfortable shoes or runners
  • Camera
  • Water to drink
  • Rain jacket or poncho
  • A fleece or jacket
  • Warm jacket for nights
  • Basic toiletries
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect repellent for mosquitoes
  • Hat for the sun
  • Some extra money for lunch, snacks and souvenirs
  • Original passport (cannot enter Machu Picchu without it)
  • Valid university card, if applicable.

Have a Question About the Machu Picchu Inca Trail Hike?

Talk With The Experts

WHY GLAMPING PERU TREKS

Small Groups

In an effort to provide a more personalized service, we at Glamping Peru Treks have a policy that our groups will not exceed 8 people.

Private Guide, Car & Driver

You always have private driver & private car flexible upon your travel schedules. Especially, in your Private Tour.

100% Personalized Itinerary

Hassle-free and uniquely personalized! You'll get a completely flexible trip plan tailored to your individual interests, wishes and budget.

Handpicked Hotels & Meals

Whether you are looking for a romantic resort or a boutique hotel, authentic cuisine or street food style; Tour Experts'll create the lifetime journey around your needs .

Camping Equipment

Our camping equipment is top of the line being replaced when needed. Our camping equipment is available for rent as well.

Environmental Sensitivit

As one of the few tour operators that dedicated itself to social responsibility. We are always looking for innovative ways of caring for our natural surroundings.

OTHER TOURS YOU MAY LIKE

choquequirao 5 days 5 Days

Choquequirao Trek 5 days


5 Days From $1777 PP

The name Choquequirao means “Cradle of Gold.” Located above the raging, glacier-fed Apurimac River, surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks and seated on a high ridge, Choquequirao is a remote and rarely visited ¨Lost City of the Incas.¨  Th....
choquequirao treks 7 Days

Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Trek 7 Days


7 Days From $2577 PP

Glamping Peru Treks, as a specialist in trekking OFF the beaten track, has the best designed itinerary in which you will visit the 2 most important Inca cities of the Cusco region: Choquequirao and Machu Picchu. We include the hike up to Llactapata w....
Sacred Valley Tour & Machu Picchu buy glmaping peru treks 2 Days

Private Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Tour 2 Days


2 Days From $657 PP

Cusco may have been the capital of the Inca Empire and called the navel of their world, but the Sacred Valley was the heart. Only about 15kms/9.3 miles north of Cusco as the condor flies, the Sacred Valley brings you the most important Inca sites b....