Lima to Machu Picchu

Lima to Machu Picchu

09 days - 08 nights Duration
2 - 10 people Group Size
3400 msnm Max. Altitude
Moderado Difficulty

Overview

Your journey from Lima to Machu Picchu is more than a tour; it is a seamless gateway into the heart of the Inca empire. We have meticulously curated this 9-day itinerary for a profound and unforgettable experience. Throughout your Peru luxury travel from Lima, our dedicated crew anticipates your every need, ensuring a deeply personal adventure. From a warm reception in Lima, we masterfully manage your acclimatization. This careful planning helps you avoid altitude sickness in Cusco, allowing you to comfortably enjoy the breathtaking landscapes. We believe in creating truly authentic Andean journeys. Your adventure begins in the historic City of Kings before a seamless flight to Cusco. We prioritize your well-being, driving you directly to the lower altitude of the Sacred Valley for a gentle acclimatization. After immersing yourself in ancient Inca traditions, you will journey to the legendary Machu Picchu. We offer the rare opportunity to visit the citadel twice, a hallmark of our custom tours Lima to Cusco. The journey culminates in the imperial city of Cusco, exploring its most prominent attractions. We craft these Machu Picchu private tours for discerning travelers seeking an unparalleled experience. Book our Lima to Machu Picchu tour and enjoy this great adventure.

Itinerary

Day 01

Day 1: Arrival in Lima, the City of Kings

  • Your Lima to Machu Picchu vacation package begins upon your arrival at Lima's airport.
  • Our representative will greet you and provide a private transfer.
  • We will escort you to your luxurious Belmond hotel in the Miraflores district.
  • Settle in and enjoy views overlooking the shimmering Pacific Ocean.

Day 1 Stats:

  • Lima Altitude: 154 meters (505 feet)
  • Accommodation: Belmond Hotel, Miraflores
  • Activities: Private transfer, hotel check-in
Day 02

Day 2: Historic Lima City Tour

  • After breakfast, we begin a full-day private exploration of Lima's historic center.
  • Explore the Plaza de Armas, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and see the Presidential Palace.
  • Visit the stunning Cathedral and the historic San Francisco Monastery.
  • Discover the world's largest collection of pre-Columbian ceramics at the Larco Herrera Museum.

Day 2 Stats:

  • Lima Altitude: 154 meters (505 feet)
  • Meals Included: Breakfast
  • Activities: Private tour of Lima's historic center, museum visits
Day 03

Day 3: Flight to Cusco and Journey to the Sacred Valley

  • We provide a private transfer to the Lima airport for your one-hour flight to Cusco.
  • Upon arrival, we drive you to a traditional Alpaca farm to learn about these iconic animals.
  • Visit an Andean Textile center to witness local weaving and dyeing demonstrations.
  • Enjoy a traditional Andean lunch and explore the famous local market in Pisac.

Day 3 Stats:

  • Cusco Altitude: 3,399 meters (11,152 feet)
  • Sacred Valley Altitude: ~2,800 meters (9,186 feet)
  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
  • Activities: Flight to Cusco, alpaca farm and textile center visit, Pisac market
Day 04

Day 4: Exploring the Heart of the Sacred Valley

  • After breakfast, we travel to Chinchero, the village known as the birthplace of the rainbow.
  • Witness another fascinating demonstration of ancient Andean textile traditions.
  • Visit the circular farming terraces of Moray, the Incas' agricultural laboratory.
  • Enjoy lunch at a rustic restaurant with stunning views of the archaeological site.

Day 4 Stats:

  • Chinchero Altitude: 3,762 meters (12,343 feet)
  • Moray Altitude: 3,500 meters (11,500 feet)
  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
  • Activities: Chinchero and Moray visit
Day 05

Day 5: Majestic Train Journey to Machu Picchu

  • An early drive takes you to the Ollantaytambo station to board a scenic train.
  • Travel to Aguas Calientes, enjoying staggering views of snow-capped peaks.
  • After checking into your hotel, take a 30-minute bus ride up to the citadel.
  • Enjoy a buffet lunch before your expert guided tour of the incredible Machu Picchu.

Day 5 Stats:

  • Aguas Calientes Altitude: 2,040 meters (6,693 feet)
  • Machu Picchu Altitude: 2,430 meters (7,972 feet)
  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
  • Activities: Train journey to Aguas Calientes, guided Machu Picchu tour
Day 06

Day 6: Second Visit to Machu Picchu Citadel

  • Revisit Machu Picchu at sunrise for a magical experience.
  • Choose an optional hike to Huayna Picchu or the Sun Gate for panoramic views.
  • Return to Aguas Calientes for lunch and enjoy free time to explore the town.
  • This is the best way to travel from Lima to Machu Picchu with ample time to explore.

Day 6 Stats:

  • Machu Picchu Altitude: 2,430 meters (7,972 feet)
  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Activities: Second Machu Picchu visit, optional hikes
Day 07

Day 7: Ollantaytambo Fortress and Transfer to Cusco

  • Board the train back to Ollantaytambo for a guided tour of its impressive fortress.
  • Learn about this sacred Inca site and its history as a battleground.
  • Enjoy a farm-fresh lunch during the scenic drive to Cusco City.
  • Make a brief stop at the magnificent Sacsayhuaman fortress before reaching your hotel.

Day 7 Stats:

  • Ollantaytambo Altitude: 2,792 meters (9,160 feet)
  • Cusco Altitude: 3,399 meters (11,152 feet)
  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
  • Activities: Ollantaytambo tour, Sacsayhuaman visit, transfer to Cusco
Day 08

Day 8: Exploring Imperial Cusco

  • After breakfast, we explore Cusco, the powerful capital of the Inca empire.
  • Visit the home of a local artist to appreciate generations of craftsmanship.
  • Walk the cobblestone streets to the sacred Qoricancha, or 'Sun Temple'.
  • Tour the impressive Cathedral on the Plaza de Armas.
  • Meet with an Inca architecture expert before your farewell dinner.

Day 8 Stats:

  • Cusco Altitude: 3,399 meters (11,152 feet)
  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Farewell Dinner
  • Activities: Cusco city tour, meeting with expert, dinner
Day 09

Day 9: Departure from Cusco

  • Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel in Cusco.
  • We provide a seamless, private transfer to the airport for your flight back to Lima.
  • This concludes your unforgettable Lima to Machu Picchu luxury tour.

Day 9 Stats:

  • Cusco Altitude: 3,399 meters (11,152 feet)
  • Meals Included: Breakfast
  • Activities: Private airport transfer

What's Included

Included
  • Seamless Air Travel, Your domestic flight from Cusco to Lima is included.
  • All private ground transportation.
  • Expedition train service or similar.
  • Expert, English-speaking local guides.
  • All meals mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Entrance tickets to all parks and sites.
  • Luxury Accommodations: Hand-picked premier hotels, including renowned Belmond properties.
  • Snacks and bottled water.
  • 24/7 dedicated assistance.
Not Included
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary.
  • Alcoholic beverages.
  • Gratuities for guides and staff.

Recommendations

  • Pack light layers for changing weather conditions.
  • Maintain a good level of physical fitness for walking tours.
  • Carry essential documents, including your passport, at all times.
  • Protect yourself from the high-altitude sun with hats and sunscreen.
  • Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
  • Respect local customs and cultural traditions.
  • Communicate any health issues or dietary needs to our team.
  • For any adjustments, simply contact us

Additional Information

Lima's Historic Heart

Stand in Lima's Plaza de Armas, the very spot where Francisco Pizarro founded the City of Kings in 1535. Its central bronze fountain is over 460 years old. Nearby, the Larco Museum offers a unique glimpse into the past, not just with its vast ceramics collection, but with its famous Moche "erotic pottery." This fascinating exhibit reveals the surprisingly open social customs of ancient Peruvian cultures, providing a narrative that spans thousands of years.

The Ingenuity of the Sacred Valley

Discover the Sacred Valley's genius at Moray. These circular terraces are a marvel of Inca engineering, creating distinct microclimates on each level. This agricultural laboratory was fundamental to the empire's survival. Nearby in Chinchero, witness how ancient traditions live on. The vibrant textiles are more than art; they are a language, with patterns and colors telling stories passed down for generations. It is a direct connection to the valley's living history.

Ollantaytambo: The Living Inca Town

Explore Ollantaytambo, a rare 'living Inca town' where inhabitants reside within walls built by their ancestors. This site is not just a ruin; it is a community with an unbroken history. It was here, at its formidable fortress, that the Incas secured one of their most significant victories against the Spanish conquistadors in 1537. The site's main fortress houses the impressive and mysteriously unfinished Temple of the Sun, a testament to the empire's abrupt end.

Cusco: The Imperial Navel of the World

Cusco was the 'navel of the world' for the Incas. You can see history in layers here, where the Spanish built the Santo Domingo church directly upon the gold-plated walls of the sacred Qoricancha sun temple. Just above the city, the Sacsayhuaman fortress showcases architectural genius. Its massive zigzag walls are thought to represent the teeth of a puma, a sacred Inca animal. Some of its stones weigh over 120 tons, fit together with an impossible, mortar-free precision.

Frequently Asked Questions

The most efficient route is flying from Lima to Cusco, which is the best way to travel from Lima to Machu Picchu. The flight is about one hour, and from there, we arrange comfortable ground and train travel to the citadel.

For a comprehensive multi-day luxury tour starting in Lima, we recommend 9 days. This allows for proper acclimatization to the altitude in Cusco and the Sacred Valley, ensuring you can fully enjoy all sites without feeling rushed.

While technically possible, it is not recommended for any how to get from Lima to Machu Picchu tour package. You would miss the rich cultural experiences in Cusco and the Sacred Valley, and proper acclimatization would be impossible.

For your Peru luxury travel from Lima, the dry season from May to September offers the best weather. You will experience sunny days and clear skies, ideal for exploring. The shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds for a more intimate experience.

Cusco sits at about 11,152 feet (3,399 meters). On our exclusive tours from Lima to the Sacred Valley, we prioritize your comfort by starting you at a lower altitude of around 9,000 to 9,500 feet (about 2,800 meters) to help you acclimatize gradually.

On our custom tours Lima to Cusco, we transfer you directly to the lower-altitude Sacred Valley upon arrival. This strategy significantly aids the acclimatization process. We also recommend drinking traditional coca leaf tea to help your body adjust.

As part of your Peru luxury travel from Lima, where you rest is integral to the journey. We have personally curated a portfolio of Peru's most exceptional properties, from iconic Belmond hotels to exclusive boutique retreats, chosen for their unparalleled service.

Our bespoke travel itinerary Lima Cusco Machu Picchu involves moderate walking at high altitudes. We always move at a comfortable pace, and a reasonable level of fitness will enhance your enjoyment of the various archaeological sites.

Absolutely. As specialists in custom tours Lima to Cusco, we can tailor any part of this itinerary. We craft the journey to fit your unique interests and preferences, ensuring a truly personal adventure.

On our exclusive tours from Lima to the Sacred Valley, you will enjoy a mix of traditional Andean cuisine and modern Peruvian dishes. We dine at high-quality local restaurants, many of which use fresh, farm-to-table ingredients.

Gratuities are not included in your multi-day luxury tour starting in Lima. Tipping is a personal gesture of appreciation for the excellent service provided by your guides and crew. We can provide suggestions upon request.

The local currency is the Peruvian Sol (PEN), but US Dollars are also widely accepted, making them part of the best way to travel from Lima to Machu Picchu. We recommend carrying a mix of both for convenience.

We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance for your how to get from Lima to Machu Picchu tour package. It should cover trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and unforeseen events to ensure complete peace of mind.

We specialize in Machu Picchu private tours and small-group travel. This ensures an intimate and personalized experience, allowing you direct access to your expert guide throughout your journey.

To secure your ideal bespoke travel itinerary Lima Cusco Machu Picchu, we advise booking at least 6 months in advance. This is especially important during the high season to guarantee availability for top hotels and train services.

Our deep local knowledge sets our Machu Picchu private tours apart. We focus on bespoke experiences and handle every detail seamlessly. Our offer of two visits to the citadel is a unique advantage, allowing for a much deeper exploration.

During your Peru luxury travel from Lima, Wi-Fi is available in all hotels. However, the signal can be intermittent in the more remote areas of the Sacred Valley, offering a chance to disconnect and immerse yourself fully.

The train companies have strict luggage policies, allowing one handbag or backpack not exceeding 11 pounds (5 kg). On our exclusive tours from Lima to the Sacred Valley, we arrange for your main luggage to be safely stored and transferred for your convenience.

Peru uses Type A and Type C outlets with a standard voltage of 220V. The best way to travel from Lima to Machu Picchu prepared is by bringing a universal travel adapter to keep your devices charged.

We manage all logistics for your Machu Picchu Express connections. Our custom tours Lima to Cusco are designed for a seamless experience, ensuring every step from flights to private transfers is flawless.