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Enjoy a journey that will take you from the Pacific coast to the heart of the Andes, weaving the Inca legacy with luxury hotels, traditional cuisine, premium trains, and genuine encounters with communities that still keep the Andean tradition alive. From the moment you arrive in Cusco, each stage of the journey has been designed to gradually reveal the charm of each destination. Instead of settling directly in the city, the first stay is in the Sacred Valley, where the lower altitude offers the ideal setting to begin acclimatization among mountains, Andean landscapes, and carefully selected experiences. A journey to discover, connect, and experience the main attractions of Peru at your own pace.
Historic Peru: 8 days through Lima, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Cusco
Why choose this experience with us?
- A private, tailor-made journey: An exclusive group of 2 to 6 passengers, with private transport, a professional guide and personalised attention throughout. The itinerary is a starting point: we can adjust nights, hotels and experiences to the way you travel.
- Gradual, carefully planned acclimatisation: The trip begins in Lima and reaches the Andes through the Sacred Valley, which lies lower than Cusco. By the time you arrive in the imperial city, your body will already have adapted.
- Peru's great icons, and the life around them: Machu Picchu, Ollantaytambo and Cusco, alongside experiences that never make the postcards: the San Pedro Market and a day spent with a family from Patacancha.
- Eight days well spent: Domestic flights, trains, entrance tickets, private transfers and 24/7 assistance, on a route that concentrates the essence of Andean Peru without ever feeling rushed.
The route, day by day
| Day | Route | Accommodation | Meals |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrival in Lima and historic centre | Lima, 3-star hotel | B L D |
| 2 | Lima – Cusco – Sacred Valley and Pisac | Sacred Valley, La Casona de Yucay | B L D |
| 3 | Ollantaytambo fortress and train to Aguas Calientes | Aguas Calientes, 3-star hotel | B L D |
| 4 | Machu Picchu and return to the Sacred Valley | Sacred Valley, La Casona de Yucay | B L D |
| 5 | Village of Ollantaytambo, Patacancha and Cusco | Cusco, 3-star hotel | B L D |
| 6 | Cusco: market, historic centre and Sacsayhuamán | Cusco, 3-star hotel | B L D |
| 7 | Cusco at your own pace | Cusco, 3-star hotel | B L D |
| 8 | Cusco – Lima and international connection | — | B L D |
B breakfast · L lunch · D dinner. The blue badges are the meals included in the programme; the grey ones are at your own expense.
Tour facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Duration | 8 days and 7 nights |
| Destinations | Lima · Sacred Valley · Machu Picchu · Cusco |
| Style of service | Private and tailor-made for your group |
| Group size | An exclusive experience for 2 to 6 passengers |
| Travel style | Standard, with 3-star hotels |
| Pace | Moderate and relaxed, carefully balanced |
| Physical level | Easy to moderate: cultural walks, no trekking |
| Altitude | From sea level to approx. 3,800 m / 12,467 ft in Patacancha |
| Acclimatisation | Gradual: the Andean stay begins in the Sacred Valley and ends in Cusco |
| Flights included | Lima – Cusco · Cusco – Lima |
| Recommended for | Families, groups of friends and couples |
Highlights of the journey
- Lima (154 m / 505 ft): Historic Centre, Plaza de Armas, Casa de Aliaga, Huaca Pucllana and the Larco Museum, an introduction to Peru's ancient history.
- Sacred Valley (approx. 2,900 m / 9,514 ft): Andean landscapes, cuisine and ancient traditions that connect the traveller with the essence of the Andes.
- Pisac (2,972 m / 9,751 ft): a traditional village, local markets and panoramic views of the Sacred Valley.
- Ollantaytambo (2,792 m / 9,160 ft): an ancient Inca town still inhabited today and an extraordinary archaeological complex among the mountains.
- Casa del Cuy: a traditional house in Ollantaytambo, known for the ancestral way of raising guinea pigs.
- Machu Picchu (2,430 m / 7,972 ft): the great Inca citadel and one of the most extraordinary places in the world.
- Patacancha community (approx. 3,800 m / 12,467 ft): an authentic encounter with an Andean family, their weaving, their music and their traditional way of life.
- Cusco (3,399 m / 11,152 ft): historic centre, Qoricancha, the Twelve-Angled Stone and Sacsayhuamán.
- San Pedro Market: a window onto the flavours, the produce and the everyday life of Cusco.
- Cristo Blanco viewpoint (3,566 m / 11,700 ft): a panoramic view of Cusco and the mountains around it.
- Andean traditions: weaving, farming, cuisine and an encounter with llamas, alpacas and vicuñas.
Historic Peru itinerary
Eight days organised in five stages, from the coast to the Andes and from Machu Picchu to the imperial city.
Arrival in Lima – A first look at Peru
A private welcome in the capital and a first walk through its historic centre, with nothing demanding after your flight.
- Your journey begins on arrival at Jorge Chávez International Airport, where our team will welcome you and accompany you on a private transfer to your hotel.
- After a long flight, the day is designed to be taken calmly. Depending on your arrival time, you can rest and later head out to discover some of Lima's most representative places with your guide.
- The walk through the historic heart includes the Plaza de Armas, the façade of the Cathedral, the Casa de Aliaga —the oldest family home in the Americas still inhabited by the descendants of its first owner— and the streets of the Historic Centre.
- We continue to Huaca Pucllana, an adobe pyramid in the middle of Miraflores, and the Larco Museum, home to one of the most important pre-Columbian art collections in the world. More than an introductory visit, this will be your first encounter with the diversity of Peru.
Optional activity on this day
| Experience | Price | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Culinary experience in Lima | On request | A private Peruvian cooking class in the afternoon, to discover the flavours of contemporary Peru. |
Lima – Cusco – Sacred Valley
From the coast to the Andes, with an Andean culinary experience and your first afternoon in the valley.
- After breakfast, a private transfer to Lima airport for the flight to Cusco. On arrival, our team will meet you to begin the journey towards the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
- The route is designed so that your arrival in the Andes is gradual: we begin acclimatising at altitudes lower than Cusco while discovering the landscapes that surround the city.
- Along the way we enjoy a carefully selected Andean culinary experience: a multi-course lunch that reveals the traditional ingredients and flavours of the Andes, accompanied by a cultural presentation of Peruvian paso horses and marinera dancing, subject to availability.
- We continue to Pisac, one of the most representative villages of the valley. Depending on the pace of the day, we visit the archaeological site and stop at one of the viewpoints to take in the landscapes of the valley.
- Afterwards, a transfer to our hotel in the Sacred Valley. Dinner and overnight.
Sacred Valley – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
The archaeological complex of Ollantaytambo in the morning and the train towards Machu Picchu in the afternoon.
- After breakfast we leave the hotel for Ollantaytambo, where we visit one of the most important archaeological complexes in the region.
- With our guide we explore the ancient citadel and its main sectors: the Temple of the Sun, the agricultural terraces, the water fountains and the ceremonial and urban sectors, discovering the extraordinary architecture and engineering developed by the Incas.
- From Ollantaytambo we board the train to Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, enjoying the landscapes of the valley and the Andean surroundings along the way.
- On arrival we have lunch at Café Inkaterra or a similar establishment. The afternoon is free to rest, explore the town or enjoy its surroundings at your own pace.
- At the end of the day we check in at the hotel in Aguas Calientes, where we rest and prepare for the following day's experience. Dinner and overnight.
Optional upgrade on this day
| Upgrade | Price | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Vistadome train, outbound | On request | A comfortable, panoramic journey to Aguas Calientes, with wide windows for taking in the landscapes of the Sacred Valley and the Andean surroundings. |
| Vistadome Observatory train, outbound | On request | Combines panoramic windows with traditional dances, live music and an open-air balcony. Subject to availability at the time of booking. |
Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Sacred Valley
The most awaited moment of the trip, with a private guide, and the return to the valley by train.
- After breakfast we board the bus up to the Historic Sanctuary and begin our visit to Machu Picchu, one of the world's great archaeological treasures.
- The guided visit to the citadel lasts between 2 and 3 hours. With your private professional guide you will better understand its history, its architecture and its meaning, following the circuit assigned to your ticket.
- Afterwards we take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes to board the train to Ollantaytambo, a journey that combines comfort with wide windows for enjoying the Andean landscapes.
- On arrival in Ollantaytambo we continue by private transfer to our hotel in the Sacred Valley, where this memorable day comes to an end. Dinner and overnight.
Sacred Valley – Village of Ollantaytambo – Patacancha – Cusco
A day of cultural encounter: the streets of an inhabited Inca town and a day shared with an Andean family.
- Before heading up into the mountains we walk the traditional streets of Ollantaytambo, one of the best-preserved Inca towns in the valley. We wander its ancient lanes and stone houses, visit the Casa del Cuy and observe the everyday life of its inhabitants, where the Inca legacy is still present.
- We continue to Patacancha, where a local family welcomes us with traditional music and dance, creating a special connection with the community from the very first moment.
- During the day we discover traditional Andean weaving and the art of the loom, share in the family's way of life and take part in the traditional wallata dance, learning about the customs that are part of their daily routine.
- We share an Andean lunch prepared by the community and take part in an offering to the Pachamama, as an expression of respect and gratitude to Mother Earth. More than a visit, it is an opportunity to connect with the people and with Andean cultural identity.
- After saying goodbye to the community, a private transfer takes us to Cusco, crossing the landscapes of the Sacred Valley once again. Overnight in the imperial city.
Cusco – The city of the Incas and its living traditions
The capital of the Tahuantinsuyo from several perspectives: its market, its architecture and its traditions.
- We begin at the traditional San Pedro Market, where our guide will show you the regional fruits, traditional dishes, local produce and handicrafts that are part of everyday life in Cusco, with a small tasting to bring you closer to its flavours.
- We continue to the historic centre to visit the Cathedral of Cusco, an introduction to the religious and colonial history of the city, and the Twelve-Angled Stone, a demonstration of the extraordinary precision of Inca architecture.
- We visit the Qoricancha, the ancient Inca temple dedicated to the Sun and one of the essential places for understanding the Andean worldview.
- We climb to the heights of the city to explore Sacsayhuamán, one of the most important sites of the Inca era, from where we also take in a panoramic view of Cusco and understand its relationship with the landscape.
- We then visit a centre dedicated to preserving Andean traditions, where you will see alpacas, llamas and vicuñas up close and learn about textile fibres and their importance for the communities.
- We finish with the panoramic view from the Cristo Blanco viewpoint and return to the hotel. The afternoon is free to rest or explore Cusco on your own.
Cusco – A day to discover in your own way
After several days of exploring, a day to enjoy Cusco at your own pace or to choose an additional experience.
- The day is yours: wander the neighbourhoods of San Blas and San Cristóbal, return to a museum or a market, enjoy the hotel facilities or simply rest before heading home.
- If you would rather keep exploring, you can add one of the optional experiences we have prepared for this day. All of them require prior booking and are subject to availability and weather conditions.
| Optional experience | Price | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Rainbow Mountain | On request | A day trip to Vinicunca, famous for its mineral formations and natural colours. Includes private transport, a specialised guide and a premium lunch. |
| Humantay Lake | On request | The famous turquoise lake at the foot of the snow-capped peaks. After the hike, a culinary experience in geodesic domes surrounded by the Andean landscape. |
| Culinary experience in Cusco | On request | A journey through Andean produce, traditional techniques and the creativity of contemporary Peruvian cuisine. |
Cusco – Lima – See you soon, Peru
Your last moments in the imperial city and the flight back to connect with your international journey.
- After breakfast you will have time to enjoy your final moments in Cusco: a walk through the centre, some last-minute shopping or a coffee overlooking the main square.
- At the scheduled time we make the private transfer to the airport for the flight to Lima.
- On arrival, our team can assist you with the corresponding transfer according to the timing of your international connection. Here our journey ends, but the trip lives on in memory: the flavours of the Andes, the mountains, the ancient Inca cities and the stories shared with those who keep their traditions alive.
What Historic Peru includes
Machu Picchu: ticket and circuits
Once your booking is confirmed we purchase the Machu Picchu entrance tickets according to current availability, always seeking the best option for your visit. Each circuit shows different sectors of the citadel. We arrange the best available circuit when confirming your booking, prioritising those that offer panoramic views and the main archaeological sites. Because of high demand, we recommend booking several months in advance.
Official entrance tickets
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket, issued with your passport details.
- Sacred Valley: Pisac and Ollantaytambo.
- Cusco: Qoricancha, Sacsayhuamán and the other sites listed in the programme.
- Lima: Casa de Aliaga, Huaca Pucllana and the Larco Museum.
Experiences included
- Andean culinary experience in the Sacred Valley: a multi-course lunch with the traditional ingredients and flavours of the Andes, accompanied by a presentation of Peruvian paso horses and marinera dancing, subject to availability.
- Living tourism in Patacancha: an authentic encounter with the Andean community, with walks, traditional weaving, music and dance, cultural activities and an offering to the Pachamama, accompanied by a lunch prepared with local produce.
- Cultural experience at the San Pedro Market, with a tasting of traditional products.
- Encounter with Andean camelids and with the textile work of the communities.
Accommodation
- 7 nights in 3-star hotels, in a twin or double room.
- Lima: 1 night.
- Sacred Valley: 2 nights at La Casona de Yucay, or similar.
- Aguas Calientes: 1 night.
- Cusco: 3 nights.
If you would like a single room, please ask about the corresponding supplement. The final choice of each hotel depends on availability on your travel dates; should anything change, an alternative of equal or higher category is maintained.
Meals
- 7 breakfasts, served at the hotels, from day 2 to day 8.
- 4 lunches: days 2, 3, 4 and 5, including the Andean culinary experience in the Sacred Valley and the lunch prepared by the Patacancha community.
- 3 dinners: days 2, 3 and 4.
- Water refills from the start to the end of the journey.
Trains to Machu Picchu
- Expedition or Voyager tourist train, from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes on day 3.
- Expedition or Voyager tourist train, from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo on day 4.
The final service and timetable are confirmed at the time of booking, subject to availability and to the schedule in force. If you wish, you can upgrade the outbound train to the Vistadome or the Vistadome Observatory; you will find the details in the Price tab.
Domestic flights
- Lima – Cusco, with up to 24 kg of checked luggage.
- Cusco – Lima, with up to 24 kg of checked luggage.
The airline and timetables are selected according to availability and to the flight schedule in force at the time of booking.
Transfers
- Welcome and private transfer from Lima airport to your hotel, and from the hotel to the airport.
- Welcome at Cusco airport and private transfer to the airport on the final day.
- Private transfers throughout the Sacred Valley and during all the scheduled experiences.
- Private transfers to and from the train stations.
- Consettur bus up and down between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
Guides and personalised assistance
- Briefing before the programme begins.
- Professional bilingual guides (Spanish and English) throughout the journey, with specialised interpretation of history, cuisine, culture, heritage and local traditions.
- 24/7 assistance throughout the trip.
- A private group of 2 to 6 people with private transport and a programme designed around you.
Not included
- International flights to and from Peru.
- Meals not listed above: lunch and dinner on day 1; dinner on day 5; lunch and dinner on days 6 and 7, and lunch on day 8.
- Travel insurance (mandatory): it must include cancellation cover, medical assistance and evacuation. We will ask for your policy number before issuing the services of your trip.
- Optional activities and any service not expressly mentioned in the itinerary.
- Tips (optional) and personal expenses.
- Expenses caused by circumstances beyond the agency's control: adverse weather, itinerary changes for safety reasons, illness, strikes, political instability or changes in government policies.
Historic Peru price
Rates
| Rate | Price | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| General rate | To be confirmed | Price from 2 people in groups of up to 6 passengers. |
The rate includes 7 nights of accommodation, the two domestic flights, the trains to Machu Picchu, all the entrance tickets listed, private transfers, professional bilingual guiding and the meals indicated in the itinerary.
Payment terms
The booking is confirmed with a first payment of 50 % of the value of the programme, and the remaining 50 % is paid 60 days before the start date. That first payment allows us to arrange the Machu Picchu tickets, the train tickets and the domestic flights immediately — services of limited availability that sell out months in advance. Securing them early guarantees that your trip unfolds exactly as designed.
Optional activities
| Day | Experience | Price | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Culinary experience in Lima | On request | A private Peruvian cooking class in the afternoon, to discover the flavours of contemporary Peru. |
| Day 7 | Rainbow Mountain | On request | A day trip to Vinicunca with private transport, a specialised guide and a premium lunch. |
| Day 7 | Humantay Lake | On request | A hike to the turquoise lake at the foot of the snow-capped peaks and a culinary experience in geodesic domes. |
| Day 7 | Culinary experience in Cusco | On request | Andean produce, traditional techniques and the creativity of contemporary Peruvian cuisine. |
All optional activities require a minimum of 2 people and prior booking, and are subject to availability and weather conditions.
Upgrade your experience
| Upgrade | Price | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Vistadome train, outbound (day 3) | On request | A comfortable, panoramic journey to Aguas Calientes, with wide windows for taking in the landscapes of the Sacred Valley. |
| Vistadome Observatory train, outbound (day 3) | On request | Panoramic windows, traditional dances, live music and an open-air balcony. |
| Superior hotel category | On request | An upgrade of the accommodation or the room type in one or all of the destinations, subject to availability. |
| Extend your journey | On request | This itinerary combines naturally with the Amazon, Lake Titicaca, the Colca Canyon and Arequipa, the Nazca Lines or the northern coast. |
Before you book
For a journey of this kind we recommend booking 4 to 6 months in advance, especially if you want specific dates, particular hotels, a specific train timetable or a particular Machu Picchu ticket option: these are services of limited availability that sell out months ahead. The programme operates all year round; between May and September you will find sunny days and cold nights with clear skies, and from November to March intensely green mountains, fewer visitors and rain that tends to fall in the afternoon. Travel insurance is mandatory on this programme and must include cancellation cover, medical assistance and evacuation. The change and cancellation terms are set out in the Frequently asked questions tab.
What to bring on Historic Peru
To enjoy Lima, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Cusco in comfort, it is worth packing light and practically, bearing in mind the different climates and the activities in the programme.
Documents and money
- Original, valid passport, required to enter Machu Picchu and for the services issued in your name. It must be valid for at least 6 months from your return date.
- Your travel insurance policy, which is mandatory on this programme.
- A digital copy of your travel documents, as a backup.
- Cash in soles for personal expenses, markets, handicrafts and tips. International cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants and established shops.
Clothing and footwear
- Comfortable clothing suitable for walking.
- Light layers, ideal for adapting to the temperature changes between day and night.
- A windproof jacket or light coat for the higher-altitude areas.
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho, especially during the rainy season.
- A hat or cap for the sun, and sunglasses.
- Comfortable shoes with good grip for the walks and archaeological visits.
- An extra change of clothes for the night in Aguas Calientes.
For Machu Picchu and the excursions
- A small day backpack, with only the essentials.
- A reusable water bottle: the programme includes water refills from start to finish.
- High-factor sunscreen: the sun at altitude is intense.
- Insect repellent, especially for Aguas Calientes and the lower-altitude areas.
- Light snacks for the journeys.
Personal items
- Personal medication you take regularly.
- Toiletries.
- Reading glasses, contact lenses or personal accessories, if you need them.
- A small personal first aid kit, if you think it useful.
Technology and photography
- Camera or mobile phone.
- Power bank or portable charger.
- Chargers and adapters for your devices. In Peru the current is 220 volts at 60 hertz, with two-pin sockets, flat (type A) and round (type C); the selected hotels have universal sockets and adapters at reception.
- Headphones, if you would like them for the journeys.
Important considerations
- Travel light: you will enjoy the transfers, walks and visits far more comfortably.
- Luggage on the train and at Machu Picchu. The rail operators allow one bag or backpack per passenger, of around 8 kg. Inside the sanctuary only a small backpack is permitted, in line with the site's restrictions. Your main luggage stays safely at the hotel in the Sacred Valley.
- Cusco and the Sacred Valley have variable temperatures between day and night, and at altitude the weather can change quickly: bring layers you can add or remove easily.
- Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu have a warm, humid climate typical of the cloud forest. It is normal to notice a certain level of humidity in the hotels.
- The programme reaches around 3,800 m above sea level in Patacancha: stay hydrated, keep a calm pace during your first Andean days and follow our team's guidance.
- Let us know in advance of any allergy, intolerance, dietary preference, medical condition or mobility limitation, so that we can adapt meals, routes and rest times.
- Always keep your passport, money and valuables with you.
Frequently asked questions about Historic Peru
The journey: profile and personalisation
Who is this journey recommended for?
It is designed for couples, families and small groups of friends who want to discover Peru's main destinations with greater privacy, comfort and flexibility. The route combines culture, cuisine, heritage, nature and local experiences at a balanced pace.
Is the trip private?
Yes. The programme is run privately and is tailor-made for groups of 2 to 6 passengers, with private transport, a professional guide and assistance during the main experiences, which allows for greater flexibility and personalised attention.
Are there set departure dates?
No. As this is a journey for a small group, you can choose the date that best suits your plans. If a group is already confirmed for a particular date, you can also ask to join that departure. Confirmation is subject to the availability of hotels, trains and Machu Picchu tickets.
What is the physical level of the trip?
Easy to moderate. It is not a trekking programme, although it includes cultural walks, archaeological visits and some sections with steps and uneven surfaces, especially at Ollantaytambo, Machu Picchu, Patacancha and Sacsayhuamán.
Can I personalise the itinerary?
Yes. The programme is a starting point, not a closed structure. We can adjust the number of nights per destination, include hotels of your choice, replace experiences or change the pace of the journey. Share your interests with us and we will present a proposal tailored to the way you travel.
Can the trip be extended to other destinations in Peru?
Of course. This itinerary combines naturally with the Amazon, Lake Titicaca, the Colca Canyon and Arequipa, the Nazca Lines or the northern coast. We recommend defining any extension when booking, to secure the best air connections and the continuity of the private service.
Is this a suitable trip for children?
Yes, and it is one of our favourite proposals for families. The experience in Patacancha, the encounter with the Andean camelids and the train journey tend to be the moments the youngest travellers remember most. We suggest a minimum age of 8 because of the altitude, and we can adapt the pace and the visits to the family's profile.
Can I do this trip if I have a medical condition or reduced mobility?
We invite you to share any medical condition, treatment or mobility limitation with us when booking. Several sites include steps and uneven Inca surfaces, but the programme offers adaptations: alternative routes, additional rest time and substitute experiences.
In which languages is the guiding service offered?
The programme includes professional bilingual guides in Spanish and English. On prior request and subject to availability, we can arrange guides in French, Portuguese, Italian, German or Japanese. We recommend indicating this when booking, as these services require prior confirmation.
Machu Picchu and trains
Is the Machu Picchu entrance ticket included?
Yes. The ticket is arranged with your passport details and is subject to official availability on the date of your visit. For correct issuance, the information must match your travel document exactly.
Which Machu Picchu circuit will I visit?
Machu Picchu has several official circuits, designed to distribute visitors and offer different perspectives of the citadel. Availability for each one is limited and is assigned when the ticket is booked. On confirming your trip we request the option best suited to your experience, prioritising the circuits with panoramic views; if circuit 2 is not available, an alternative is assigned for the date of your visit. Once the ticket is issued, the assigned circuit forms part of the booking and must be followed during the visit.
Is the visit to Machu Picchu private?
Yes. The visit takes place with a private professional guide for your group, which allows the explanations and the pace to be adapted to your interests. It lasts between 2 and 3 hours, depending on the assigned circuit.
Which train will we take to Machu Picchu?
The programme includes the Expedition or Voyager tourist train service, from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes on day 3 and back on day 4. The final service and timetable are confirmed at the time of booking. If you wish, you can upgrade the outbound train to the Vistadome or the Vistadome Observatory; you will find the details in the Price tab.
Can I climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
These climbs require a specific circuit and ticket, with very limited places that open several months in advance. They are not part of the programme, but if you are interested, please let us know from the outset so that we can try to arrange them. Bear in mind that they add between two and three hours of demanding walking.
What luggage limit applies on the train to Machu Picchu?
The rail operators allow one bag or backpack per passenger, with a limit of approximately 8 kg and dimensions set by each service. Your main luggage stays safely at the hotel in the Sacred Valley, so you travel with only what you need for the day.
Flights and transfers
Are the domestic flights included?
Yes. The programme includes the Lima – Cusco and Cusco – Lima flights, both with up to 24 kg of checked luggage. The airline and timetable depend on availability and on the flight schedule for the dates chosen. International flights are not included.
Are all the transfers private?
Yes. The main ground transfers in the programme are run as a private service, including airport transfers, journeys around the Sacred Valley, transfers to the train stations and those listed in the itinerary. The official transport between Aguas Calientes and the Machu Picchu sanctuary is provided by the corresponding authorised service.
What happens if my international flight is delayed and I miss a service?
Our team will immediately assess the available alternatives and, where possible, reorganise the remaining services to minimise the impact on your trip. However, some services with a fixed date and time, such as Machu Picchu tickets and train tickets, are subject to supplier conditions and may not allow rescheduling or refunds. We therefore recommend insurance with cover for delays and loss of services; where applicable, we will provide the documentation you need for your claim.
Accommodation and meals
Which hotels are included?
The programme includes 7 nights in carefully selected 3-star standard hotels: 1 night in Lima, 2 nights in the Sacred Valley —at La Casona de Yucay or similar—, 1 night in Aguas Calientes and 3 nights in Cusco. Accommodation is in a twin or double room and the final selection depends on availability on your travel dates.
What type of room is included?
The rate is calculated for a twin or double room. If you would like a single room, a suite or a superior category, we can quote according to hotel availability and the date.
Which meals are included?
7 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 3 dinners are included, along with water refills throughout the journey. Among them are the Andean culinary experience in the Sacred Valley and the lunch prepared by the Patacancha community. The day-by-day detail is in the Inclusions tab, and the route table in the Overview tab summarises it at a glance.
Can you cater for dietary restrictions or allergies?
Yes. Let us know in advance of any allergy, intolerance or dietary preference —vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free or otherwise— and we will pass it on to every hotel, restaurant and culinary experience in the programme, including the community lunch in Patacancha. Peruvian cuisine is exceptionally versatile and can meet almost any requirement.
Can I upgrade the hotel or the train category?
Yes. We can offer upgrades to the accommodation, the room type or the rail service when available. Upgrades are quoted according to the category selected, the travel date and the corresponding fare difference.
What happens if the hotel, train or flight originally planned is unavailable?
If the service initially planned is not available when booking, we will find an alternative of equal or higher category, maintaining as far as possible the same level of comfort and the essence of the itinerary. If the alternative involves a fare difference, we will inform you before making the change.
Cultural experiences
Which cultural experiences are included?
The journey is designed to combine Peru's main attractions with experiences that bring you closer to its living culture. Among them are the Andean culinary experience in the Sacred Valley, with its presentation of Peruvian paso horses and marinera dancing; the living tourism in Patacancha, with weaving, music, dance and an offering to the Pachamama; the tour of the San Pedro Market; the streets of Ollantaytambo and the Casa del Cuy; and the encounter with the Andean communities and camelids.
What can I do during the free day in Cusco?
Day 7 is designed for you to enjoy Cusco at your own pace or to choose an additional experience: Rainbow Mountain, Humantay Lake or a culinary experience. You will find the details in the Price tab.
How does this trip benefit local communities?
We work directly with the families of Patacancha and with local artisans, guides and producers, so that a substantial part of the value of the trip stays in the communities you visit. The encounter is built on mutual respect and genuine exchange, never as a staged performance. Travelling well also means leaving a positive mark.
Health, altitude and safety
What is the maximum altitude of the trip?
The programme reaches around 3,800 m above sea level in the community of Patacancha and around 3,700 m at Sacsayhuamán. Cusco sits at 3,399 m. The body's response to altitude varies from person to person: we recommend staying hydrated, keeping a calm pace during the first Andean days and following our team's guidance.
How is the trip designed to help with acclimatisation?
Adaptation to the Andes is gradual. After Lima we fly to Cusco and continue straight to the Sacred Valley, which lies lower than the city. There we begin calmly, combining cuisine, culture and landscapes, and only in the second half of the trip do we settle in Cusco.
What happens if the altitude affects me during the trip?
Our team is ready to support you. The itinerary already minimises the risk by starting the Andean stay in the Sacred Valley, and the selected hotels offer traditional infusions and oxygen support. At the first sign of discomfort, your guide will immediately arrange medical attention and adjust the pace of the day to your wellbeing.
Is any vaccination required?
No vaccination is compulsory for the destinations on this itinerary. The yellow fever vaccine is only recommended for travellers who extend their trip to the Amazon. If you have a particular medical question, we recommend raising it with your doctor in advance.
Why is travel insurance mandatory?
Because it protects a significant investment. A flight delay, an illness or an unexpected family matter can affect named services that cannot be refunded, such as Machu Picchu tickets or train tickets. The policy must include cancellation cover, medical assistance and evacuation, the latter especially valuable at altitude. We will ask for your policy number before issuing the services of your trip.
Will I have assistance throughout the trip?
Yes. Our team accompanies and coordinates the journey from your arrival in Peru until the end of the programme, with 24/7 assistance and a briefing beforehand to go over the itinerary, timings and important recommendations.
What happens if the weather or operating conditions change?
Your safety is our priority. In the event of adverse weather, official restrictions, strikes or other extraordinary circumstances, we may make adjustments to the programme to guarantee safety and to preserve, as far as possible, the essence of the experience.
Bookings, payments and cancellations
How far in advance should I book?
For a journey of this kind we recommend booking at least 4 to 6 months in advance, especially if you want specific dates, particular hotels, train timetables or a specific Machu Picchu ticket option. This gives us more margin to arrange the services of limited availability.
How does the booking process work?
Step 1. Availability enquiry. Write to us at info@sakuraexpedition.com to check the available dates. We will send you a booking form for each participant to complete.
Step 2. Passenger details. To arrange the Machu Picchu ticket, the train tickets, the domestic flights and the hotels we need, exactly as they appear on the passport, full name, gender, passport number, date of birth (dd/mm/yyyy) and nationality. Without this information it is not possible to purchase permits or tickets.
Step 3. First payment and arrangement of services. Once the forms have been received, we request 50 % of the value of the programme in order to purchase tickets, train tickets and domestic flights.
Step 4. Final confirmation. Once the permits are secured, you will receive your official confirmation invoice and your booking will be 100 % guaranteed. The remaining 50 % is paid 60 days before the start date.
What are the payment terms?
The booking is confirmed with a first payment of 50 % of the value of the programme, and the remaining 50 % is paid 60 days before the start date. That first payment allows us to arrange the Machu Picchu tickets, the train tickets and the domestic flights immediately — services of limited availability that sell out months in advance.
What is the cancellation policy?
We understand that travel plans can change. Our policy applies according to how far in advance we receive the cancellation request in writing:
| Notice given | Conditions |
|---|---|
| More than 90 days | Only the non-refundable expenses already committed are retained, plus USD 200 per passenger for administrative handling. |
| Between 90 and 61 days | A penalty of 50 % of the total value of the programme. |
| Between 60 and 31 days | A penalty of 75 % of the total value of the programme. |
| 30 days or less | A penalty of 100 % of the value of the programme. |
This scale reflects the commitments and bookings we arrange on the passenger's behalf from the moment the trip is confirmed. Some services, such as Machu Picchu tickets, train tickets and domestic flights, are issued in the passenger's name and, once issued, are subject to each supplier's conditions: they are non-refundable, non-transferable and cannot be modified. We therefore recommend travel insurance with cancellation cover, which may allow the corresponding amounts to be recovered when the cause is covered by the policy. Certain booking, refund or amendment procedures may require between 15 and 90 days to process, depending on the service and the supplier. Before confirming your trip, your advisor will explain the specific conditions of each service contracted.
Can I change the date of my trip instead of cancelling it?
Yes. A date change can be requested more than 90 days in advance, without penalty, subject to availability and to any fare difference for the new dates. Some services already issued may require rescheduling at an additional cost. Within the last 90 days, the request is governed by the cancellation scale. Your advisor will assess each case, always looking for the best alternative for you.
Can I transfer my booking to someone else?
Named services linked to your identity document —the Machu Picchu ticket, the train tickets and the domestic flights— cannot change holder once issued. Ground services can be transferred more than 60 days in advance. Let us know as soon as possible and we will tell you precisely what fare difference applies.
Practical information
Do I need a visa to enter Peru?
Citizens of most countries in the Americas and the European Union do not require a visa for tourist stays. A passport valid for at least 6 months from your return date is required. As requirements can change, we suggest confirming them with the Peruvian consulate for your nationality before travelling.
What currency should I bring and can I pay by card?
The official currency is the Peruvian sol. International credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants and established shops. We recommend carrying some cash in soles for markets, handicrafts and tips, especially during the community experiences.
Will I have internet during the trip?
All the hotels in the programme have wifi, and mobile coverage is good in Lima, Cusco and the Sacred Valley. The signal becomes intermittent in mountain areas, in the community of Patacancha and at the Machu Picchu sanctuary. Many travellers find that pause is part of the charm.
Do I need an adapter to charge my devices?
In Peru the current is 220 volts at 60 hertz and the sockets take two-pin plugs: flat (type A) and round (type C). If you are travelling from Europe or much of South America, your plugs will fit without difficulty; if you are travelling from the United States, check that your devices accept 220 volts, as most modern chargers do automatically. The selected hotels have universal sockets and adapters at reception.
Will I have water during the journey?
Yes. The programme includes water refills from the start to the end of the trip, which is particularly important at altitude. It also reduces the use of single-use plastic bottles. We recommend drinking only bottled or purified water.
Are tips expected?
Tips are entirely voluntary. Our whole team receives fair pay, so any gratuity is left to each traveller's discretion.
What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable clothing in layers, comfortable walking shoes and a waterproof jacket. You will find the full list in the What to bring tab, which also covers the hand luggage limit on the train to Machu Picchu.
About Sakura Expedition
Why choose Sakura Expedition for your trip?
Sakura Expedition is a 100 % local Peruvian company, based in Cusco, specialising in adventure and cultural experiences in Peru's main destinations. What sets us apart:
- Small groups, for a more comfortable, personalised experience with greater attention from our guides.
- Our own operation and local team. We coordinate our programmes directly, which lets us maintain high standards of quality, punctuality and organisation.
- Certified professional guides, passionate about the history, culture and traditions of Peru.
- Personalised attention before, during and after your trip, with timely answers to your questions.
- Responsible and sustainable tourism, alongside our partner communities, respecting their traditions and contributing to the development of local families.
- A commitment to safety: protocols, appropriate equipment and trained staff.
- CALTUR Gold certification, the highest recognition of tourism quality in Peru.
At Sakura Expedition we do not just organise trips: we create authentic experiences that connect our travellers with the history, culture, nature and essence of Peru. With us, your satisfaction is guaranteed.
Do you have any other questions?
You can contact our sales team on WhatsApp at +51 993 150 947 or +51 941 411 418, or by email at info@sakuraexpedition.com.
