3-Day Essential Cusco and Machu Picchu Tour

Exploring the ancient ruins of Cusco and the iconic Machu Picchu is a bucket-list experience for many travelers. This 3-day tour promises to immerse visitors in the rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes of Peru’s Andes region. From visiting the renowned Qoricancha temple to embarking on a scenic train journey to the mysterious citadel, the itinerary is designed to showcase the best of this captivating destination. With personalized attention, comfortable accommodations, and seamless logistics, the tour offers an exceptional opportunity to uncover the magic of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. What awaits beyond the first step of this adventure is a captivating journey that will leave a lasting impression.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best 3 Day Tours In Aguas Calientes.

Key Points

• This 3-day tour offers a comprehensive Cusco and Machu Picchu experience, including visits to iconic Inca sites and a guided tour of the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu.
• The tour is priced starting at $907.15 per person and includes 2 nights’ accommodation, select meals, transportation, and all necessary entrance fees.
• The group size is limited to a maximum of 12 participants, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience during the journey.
• Travelers can choose between English and Spanish-language tours, catering to their preferred language for a seamless experience.
• The itinerary allows for free time in Cusco, enabling participants to explore the city’s historic streets, colonial architecture, and local artisan shops at their own pace.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This 3-day essential Cusco and Machu Picchu tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the historical and cultural highlights of the region.

Priced from $907.15 per person, the tour offers free cancellation and flexible payment options.

With a maximum group size of 12 participants, the experience is personalized, catering to both Spanish and English speakers.

Travelers will visit iconic sites like the Qoricancha, Inca Museum, Sacsayhuaman, and the renowned Machu Picchu, accompanied by a professional, English-speaking guide.

The tour includes 2 nights’ accommodation, select meals, transportation, and all necessary entrance fees, ensuring a seamless and enriching journey through the wonders of Cusco and Machu Picchu.

Itinerary Highlights

The 3-day tour begins with the traveler’s arrival in Cusco, where they’ll be transferred from the airport to their hotel.

On the first day, they’ll visit the Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun) and the Inca Museum, followed by an exploration of Sacsayhuaman, Pukapukara, and Tambomachay.

The second day is dedicated to the Machu Picchu experience, with a train journey from Ollantaytambo and a guided 2-hour tour of the iconic site, leaving ample free time for independent exploration.

The final day offers leisure time in downtown Cusco before the traveler’s departure.

• Discover the historical and cultural wonders of Cusco
• Experience the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu with a guided tour
• Enjoy the flexibility of free time to explore at your own pace

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco

Arriving in the historic city of Cusco, travelers are greeted by the vibrant blend of Inca and Spanish colonial influences. After the airport transfer, the first stop is the impressive Qoricancha, or Temple of the Sun, where the group explores the remarkable Inca architecture and learns about the site’s religious significance.

Next, they visit the Inca Museum, which showcases a comprehensive collection of Inca artifacts and provides valuable insights into the empire’s rich cultural heritage.

In the afternoon, the tour ventures to the nearby archaeological sites of Sacsayhuaman, Pukapukara, and Tambomachay, each offering a unique glimpse into the Inca Empire’s impressive engineering and defensive capabilities.

The day concludes with a comfortable stay at the Ayni Cusco Hotel or an equivalent 3-4 star accommodation.

Day 2: Machu Picchu Experience

On the second day, travelers embark on the much-anticipated journey to Machu Picchu, the iconic Inca citadel perched high in the Andes.

They take the train from Ollantaytambo to the town of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to the ancient site. A guided 2-hour tour provides insights into the architectural wonders and historical significance of Machu Picchu.

Afterward, visitors have free time to explore the site at their own pace, marveling at the stunning vistas and seeing the spirit of this remarkable wonder of the world.

• The train journey offers breathtaking views of the Andes and the Urubamba River.
• The guided tour showcases the most important structures and explains the Inca’s sophisticated urban planning.
• Exploring Machu Picchu independently allows travelers to discover hidden gems and capture the essence of this timeless place.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Day 3: Free Time and Departure

On the final day, travelers have the opportunity to explore the charming downtown Cusco at their own pace. They can stroll through the historic streets, admiring the colonial architecture and lively markets.

Visitors may choose to visit the iconic Plaza de Armas, the heart of the city, with its stunning Cusco Cathedral and Inca ruins. Other popular activities include browsing local artisan shops, sampling traditional Peruvian cuisine, or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

After the free time, the tour concludes with a private transfer to the Cusco airport or cruise ship terminal, ensuring a seamless departure for the next stage of the journey.

Inclusions

The tour package includes a comprehensive set of amenities to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. It covers 2 nights of accommodation in 3-4 star hotels, 2 breakfasts and 1 dinner, entrances to Machu Picchu, all transportation and transfers, expedition train tickets, round-trip bus to Machu Picchu, and a private guided tour at the site.

The tour also provides:

• Professional English-speaking tour guides to enhance the educational aspect of the experience.
• All necessary entrance fees to ensure seamless access to the historical sites.
• Efficient logistics, including airport/cruise terminal transfers, to optimize the itinerary.

Exclusions

Aside from the inclusions, the tour package doesn’t cover the cost of flights.

Single supplement fees start at $80 for 3-star hotels and $150 for 4-star hotels for those who wish to have a private room. Meals not mentioned in the inclusions are also the responsibility of the traveler.

The optional Huayna Picchu entrance fee is $85 per person. Travel insurance is strongly recommended, though not included in the package price. Participants are encouraged to secure their own travel insurance to protect against any unforeseen circumstances during the trip.

Additional Information

To check availability and start times, customers can consult the tour provider’s website or contact their sales team.

The tour operates with a limited group size of up to 12 participants, ensuring a more personalized and intimate experience.

Additionally:

• The meeting point details are available on Google Maps, making it easy for participants to locate the starting point.
• The tour is offered in both Spanish and English, accommodating a diverse range of travelers.
• While travel insurance isn’t included, it’s strongly recommended to protect against unforeseen circumstances during the trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Upgrade to a Private Tour for a Higher Cost?

Yes, you can upgrade to a private tour for a higher cost. The tour operator offers a private tour option, which provides a more personalized experience with a dedicated guide and flexibility in the itinerary.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for Machu Picchu?

For the Machu Picchu portion of the tour, travelers don’t need any special equipment. However, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and layers of clothing are recommended to ensure a comfortable experience exploring the ancient Inca citadel.

How Much Spending Money Should I Budget for the Tour?

For this 3-day tour, travelers should budget around $300-$500 per person for additional expenses. This includes optional activities, meals not covered, and personal spending money for souvenirs and snacks.

Can I Add Extra Activities or Extensions to the Tour?

Yes, travelers can add extra activities or extensions to the 3-Day Essential Cusco and Machu Picchu Tour. The tour operator offers a range of optional excursions and upgrades that can be booked at an additional cost to enhance the overall experience.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can also reserve their spot without upfront payment through the "Reserve now & pay later" option.

Recap

This 3-day tour of Cusco and Machu Picchu offers travelers an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Andes. With guided visits to iconic sites, a scenic train ride, and personalized attention, this adventure provides a comprehensive introduction to Peru’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders. Whether you’re a history buff or outdoor enthusiast, this tour promises an immersive and rewarding journey through one of South America’s most captivating destinations.

You can check if your dates are available here: