Imperial Peru – 8 Days / 7 Nights

8 Days
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Price from $ 800.00 USD Per Person
8 Dayss
  • Enjoy an unforgettable day at Machupicchu with an expert guide!
  • Travel comfortably with quality transportation and trains, worry-free.
  • Make the most of your free time in Aguas Calientes to explore or relax.
  • Easy and secure booking, with payment options in Cusco or by card.
  • Don't forget the essentials and ask about extras like flights and hotels.
Group Size
Min 2 Persons
Duration
8 Days
Activity Type
Hiking
Season
All Year
Food
1B, 1L, 1D
Physical Level
Easy

Overview

This tour includes visit to diferent parts of Peru, including Lima, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Ballestas Islands, and Huacachina. Over eight days, individuals cover historical zones and natural areas. The setup highlights Inca background with directed observations.

People commence in Lima, advancing to other regions progressively. Each portion allocates moments for examination and moderate motion. Instructors convey details on regional practices connected to Andean heritage.

The framework accommodates modifications for specific requirements, such as rail schedules. A time when travelers faced a delay from fog, our personnel handled it without issues.

Throughout, private transportation belonging to Machu Picchu by World manages relocations, operated by thoroughly prepared individuals. A member from our group remains updated on your advances continually.

Proficient instructors from Machu Picchu by World oversee assemblies, competent in diverse languages for participants from numerous nations. They supply comprehensive narratives on the courses and chronological aspects.

Dining selections along the way rely on fresh elements and regional organic materials. Opt for worldwide varieties if desired, although this may incur additional payments according to the venue. Inquire with our scheduling unit at Machu Picchu by World regarding options.

This configuration delivers a methodical yet adaptable encounter, underlining protection and local awareness. Our vehicles and capable operators guarantee consistent transitions.

Overview

Trip details

  • Duration: 8 days / 7 nights (arrival in Lima – departure from Cusco)

  • Main Destinations: Lima, Ballestas Islands, Huacachina, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu

  • Group & Guides: Moderate group size with expert multilingual guides

  • Transport & Accommodation: Private transfers; 2 nights Lima, 4 Cusco, 1 Aguas Calientes

  • Meals & Access: Selected breakfasts/lunches included; entry to key sites (San Francisco Catacombs, Ballestas, Huacachina, Sacred Valley, Maras, Machu Picchu, Humantay, Rainbow)

  • Support: Continuous supervision and messaging assistance

Trip Summary

Day 1: Arrival in Lima – Classic Lima City Tour

  • Pickup from hotel for the tour.
  • Visit to El Olivar Park.
  • Visit to San Francisco Catacombs.
  • Tour Historic Center of Lima, Plaza San Martin and Plaza Mayor.
  • Visit Love Park.
  • Return to hotel.

Day 2: Ballestas Islands & Huacachina Full-Day Tour

  • 4:20 a.m.: Departure from Lima to Ica, 5-6 hours.
  • 7:45 a.m. to 8:00 a.m.: Board speedboat for Ballestas Islands.
  • Visit Ballestas Islands.
  • 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.: Return to station, continue to Ica.
  • 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.: Dune buggy and sandboarding in Huacachina.
  • 2:30 p.m.: Free time for lunch.
  • 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.: Visit Huacachina Oasis.
  • 6:30 p.m.: Drop-off at Ica main square.
  • 9:00 p.m.: Private transportation back to Lima.

Day 3: Flight from Lima Airport to Cusco – City Tour

  • Be at airport 2 hours before flight.
  • Departure Lima to Cusco.
  • Transfer airport to hotel.
  • 1:50 p.m. to 2:10 p.m.: Pickup for city tour.
  • Guided visit to Tambomachay.
  • Guided visit to Puca Pucara fortress.
  • Guided visit to Qenqo ceremonial center.
  • Guided visit to Sacsayhuaman fortress.
  • 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.: Return to Cusco near main square.

Day 4: Sacred Valley of the Incas VIP Full Day Tour – Connection to Machu Picchu

  • 6:40 a.m. to 7:00 a.m.: Pickup from hotel.
  • Visit to Maras salt mines.
  • Transfer to Moray agricultural center.
  • Visit to Chinchero textile center.
  • Visit to Chinchero archaeological site.
  • Lunch in Urubamba.
  • Visit to Ollantaytambo archaeological area.
  • 3:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.: Tour ends, stay in Ollantaytambo.
  • 4:36 p.m. or 7:00 p.m.: Train departure to Aguas Calientes, 1 hour 40 minutes.

Day 5: Machu Picchu Full Day Tour

  • 5:30 a.m.: Breakfast at hotel.
  • Bus to Machu Picchu.
  • Guided tour of Machu Picchu, 2-3 hours.
  • Free time for photos.
  • Bus back to Aguas Calientes.
  • Free time for lunch or hot springs.
  • Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, 1 hour 40 minutes.
  • Private transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.

Day 6: Humantay Lake Full Day Tour

  • 4:40 a.m. to 5:10 a.m.: Pickup from hotel.
  • Breakfast in Mollepata.
  • 9:00 a.m.: Hike to Humantay Lake, about 1.5 hours.
  • Guided visit to Humantay Lake.
  • Return hike, about 1.5 hours.
  • Buffet lunch in Mollepata.
  • 2:40 p.m.: Return to Cusco.
  • 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.: Arrival in Cusco at San Francisco square.

Day 7: Full Day Rainbow Mountain Tour

  • 4:40 a.m. to 5:10 a.m.: Pickup from hotel.
  • Breakfast in Cusi Pata.
  • 9:00 a.m.: Hike to Rainbow Mountain, about 1.5 hours.
  • Guided visit to Rainbow Mountain, 45 minutes.
  • Return hike, about 1.5 hours.
  • Semi-buffet lunch in Cusi Pata.
  • 2:40 p.m.: Return to Cusco.
  • 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.: Arrival in city.

Day 8: Hotel Transfer – Airport

  • Transfer hotel to airport per flight schedule.

Included

  • Tourist Transportation Every Day: Agency-owned private vehicles with highly trained drivers handle all daily moves, ensuring reliability across terrains.
  • Bilingual Guide: Spanish and English experts, skilled in leading worldwide travelers, provide detailed explanations on Andean culture and routes.
  • Hotel Pickup: Except day 2, for most activities, simplifying starts with direct collection.
  • 24/7 Assistance: Ongoing support via messaging, quick responses to inquiries anytime.
  • 2 Nights in Lima: Accommodations selected for city access, comfortable rest after explorations.
  • 4 Nights in Cusco: Hotels chosen for proximity to sites, aiding recovery from days.
  • 1 Night in Aguas Calientes: Lodging near station, convenient for early Machu Picchu.
  • Entry to San Francisco Catacombs: Access to tunnels and ossuaries, with guide on historical burials.
  • Entry to Ballestas Islands & Huacachina Oasis: Covers boat to islands for wildlife and oasis for activities.
  • Entry to Archaeological Sites with General Tourist Ticket: For Cusco and Valley Inca places, allowing full observations with explanations.
  • Entry to Maras Salt Mines: View production ponds, guide details methods.
  • Machu Picchu Entrance Ticket: Circuit 2 availability-based, for guided session and photos.
  • Entry to Humantay Lake: Access for hike and visit, including natural observations.
  • Entry to Rainbow Mountain: Covers trail to colorful area, with time for views.
  • Round-Trip Train Ticket Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes: Tourist class, choose PeruRail for scenery or Inca Rail for ease.
  • Bus Ticket to Machu Picchu: Consetur round trip for Inca City reach.
  • Bus Ticket from Ollantaytambo to Cusco: Private for safe return post-train.
  • Breakfast & Lunch in Mollepata: On Humantay day, using local organics for energy.
  • Buffet Lunch in Urubamba: Sacred Valley, regional ingredients for taste.
  • Breakfast & Lunch in Cusi Pata: Rainbow day, Andean products for sustenance.
  • Hiking Poles for Trekking Days: Provided for stability on Humantay and Rainbow walks.

Not Included

  • Personal Expenses: Items like beverages or keepsakes, plan your own budget for these.
  • Meals Not Mentioned: Any not listed, arrange independently at local spots.
  • Hotel Pickup for Day 2: Meet at specified points for that tour start.
  • Entry to Qoricancha and Cusco Cathedral: Optional on day 3, pay if choosing to visit.
  • Entry to Aguas Calientes Hot Springs: Separate cost if wanting to relax there.
  • Horse Rentals for Humantay Lake & Rainbow Mountain Treks: Available on-site if needed for assistance.
  • Flight Tickets: Request if desired, handled additionally.

Pricing

Travel Guide

Weather Conditions

Lima coastal areas mild year-round, 15-25°C, foggy winters June-September. Cusco higher, dry May-October sunny days 20°C, nights cold 5°C. Rain November-April. Once fog delayed boat, but cleared by noon.

MonthLima High (°C)Cusco High (°C)Rain Days
January261820
July18172

Local People and Culture

People in Lima mix modern, traditional; helpful, speak Spanish. Cusco residents proud Andean roots, Quechua common. Respect by learning basic greetings. Vendor shared textile story, felt welcoming.

Typical Food

Dishes ceviche fish, potatoes varieties, corn-based. Sources local farms. International like burgers spots, extra fees. Cheap: market soups 5-10 soles.

Free Places to Visit

Lima plazas walk, people observe. Cusco streets explore, no cost. Huacachina lagoon stroll around.

Budget Eating Spots

Lima street carts anticuchos under 10 soles, fresh. Cusco small places quinoa meals 15 soles. Avoid fancy for savings.

Dressing Year-Round

Coast light clothes, jackets evenings. Mountains layers, warm nights. Rain season ponchos; dry sunscreen hats. Always comfy shoes paths.

Physical Effort and Health Needs

Moderate walks, hikes 1.5 hours altitude over 3000 meters. Fit level basic; doctor check heart. Altitude sick common, tea aids. Felt dizzy first, rested improved. No extreme.


FAQs

What are the pickup times for the Lima city tour on day one?

The tour begins with hotel collection at a time coordinated to fit your arrival schedule, without a fixed hour. The guide starts at El Olivar Park first, allowing you to settle in after arrival before exploring.

How long is the trip to Ica on day two?

The drive from Lima to Ica takes approximately 5–6 hours by private transportation. Early arrival at the meeting points is recommended, giving time for breakfast and preparation for the boat excursion in Ica.

What can I expect at the Ballestas Islands?

Enjoy a speedboat ride to see seabirds, penguins, and the famous Candelabra geoglyph. The guide explains local coastal wildlife, and life vests are provided. The tour takes place in the morning.

Is sandboarding included in Huacachina?

Yes, sandboarding is part of the adventure, scheduled from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m., followed by a free lunch. Visitors also explore the oasis, enjoying the desert landscape and dune rides.

What is the flight timing to Cusco on day three?

Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure. Upon landing, you will be transferred to your hotel. Coca tea is recommended to help adjust to altitude, and the city tour is scheduled for the afternoon.

What is the order of sites in the Cusco city tour?

The tour begins at Tambomachay water channels, followed by Puca Pucara, Qenqo, and Sacsayhuaman. The guide provides detailed explanations of each site. The tour returns to the hotel in the evening.

What activities are included in the Sacred Valley on day four?

Visit the Maras salt mines, Moray archaeological center, Chinchero textile workshop and site, followed by lunch and a stop at Ollantaytambo. The evening includes a train ride to Aguas Calientes. Guides explain Inca uses of each site.

What train options are available to Aguas Calientes?

You can select PeruRail for scenic views or Inca Rail for added comfort when booking. Departure times are 4:36 p.m. or 7:00 p.m., with a journey duration of approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.

What is the duration of the Machu Picchu guided tour?

The guided tour lasts 2–3 hours, covering the Inca City, local flora, and fauna. After the tour, you have free time for photos. Round-trip bus transportation is included, and guides provide expert explanations of the route.

Are there optional activities in Aguas Calientes?

Yes, you can choose to have lunch on your own or visit the hot springs, which are not included in the package. This allows time to relax before taking the train back.

How long does the hike to Humantay Lake take?

The hike takes about 1.5 hours uphill and the same time back. Along the way, observe nature and possible wildlife. Guides share information, and there is time for photos at the lake.

What meals are provided on the Humantay day?

Breakfast and a buffet lunch at Mollepata, made with local organic ingredients, are included. Meals help you recharge after the hike. Vegetarian options are available upon request.

How long is the Rainbow Mountain visit?

The guided visit lasts about 45 minutes at the summit for photos of the colorful mountains. The hike takes approximately 1.5 hours each way. Lunch follows after the excursion.

What is the return time to Cusco on day seven?

Return from the Sacred Valley to Cusco is scheduled between 4:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. after lunch. Private transportation is provided, and guests return to their hotel to rest for the evening.

What are the transfer details on day eight?

Guests are transferred from the hotel to the airport according to their flight schedule. If your flight is later in the day, free time is available. A private vehicle completes this transfer, marking the end of the tour.

What to Bring

  • Comfortable and Appropriate Clothing for Outdoor Activities: Choose breathable fabrics for walks, layers for temperature shifts in Andean areas.
  • Water Bottle and Snacks for Hikes: Stay hydrated with reusable container, pack energy items like nuts for trails.
  • Sunscreen, Hat, and Sunglasses: Protect from high sun, apply lotion, wear head cover and eye shade during days.
  • Cash for Additional Expenses or Optional Entries: Carry local currency for small buys or fees like springs.
  • Appropriate Footwear for Walking Tours: Sturdy shoes with grip for uneven paths on exploration days.

Additional Services

  • Train between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes both ways.
  • Consetur bus at Machu Picchu.
  • Private transportation Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
  • Pickup and transfer from Cusco airport.
  • Walking poles for hikes.

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To check availability for any of our services, please contact us at reservasmapibyworld@gmail.com or via WhatsApp at +51 982 898 992 or +51 973 310 752. We’ll be happy to provide detailed information, rates, and booking conditions.

We offer special discounts for groups, and all our tours are fully guaranteed with daily departures. Feel free to get in touch for more details about your preferred experience or to start creating a personalized travel itinerary based on your interests.

MAPI by World is a trusted travel service based in Cusco, Peru, dedicated to offering authentic and memorable experiences throughout the region. Whether you’re seeking a family adventure, a romantic escape, or a nature-filled journey, our professional team ensures comfort, quality, and a genuine connection with local culture and traditions.

NOTE: At MAPI by World, we specialize in custom-made travel experiences across Peru. With access to exclusive deals and carefully selected partner hotels, we can help you design your perfect itinerary. For assistance with your tailor-made package, don’t hesitate to contact us anytime.

About the Machu Picchu Circuits Guide (2025)

As of October 2025, Machu Picchu has maintained the circuit system introduced in mid-2024, with updates to increase daily visitor capacity to 4,500 in the regular season and 5,600 in the high season (typically June to October/November, depending on the source). This system divides visits into three main circuits with a total of 10 sub-routes, designed to manage crowds, preserve the site, and offer varied experiences from panoramic views to in-depth ruin explorations and hikes. Visitors must select a specific circuit and sub-route when purchasing tickets in advance (1-4 months recommended, especially for high-demand options like Huayna Picchu).

All routes are one-way with no backtracking or re-entry without an additional ticket. Guides are optional but recommended.

Tickets are available via official platforms like machupicchu.gob.pe or tuboleto.cultura.pe. Below is a compiled summary based on current guidelines, organized by circuit. Durations include entry to exit; some routes are seasonal (high season: approximately June 1/19 to October 15/November 2). Daily ticket allocations: Circuit 1 (~1,100), Circuit 2 (~3,050), Circuit 3 (~1,450).

Circuit 1: Panoramic Route (Focus on Views and External Hikes)

Emphasizes elevated viewpoints and optional side hikes, starting from the main upper entrance. Ideal for photography enthusiasts or those short on time/energy. No access to main ruins or urban sectors (requires separate Circuit 2/3 ticket). Classic postcard photo from Guardian’s House area included in all sub-routes. Difficulty: Easy to challenging. Year-round availability unless noted;

Route 1-A: Machu Picchu Mountain
  • Hike through forest to upper terraces for classic views, then a steep ascent to Machu Picchu Mountain summit (3,083m) for overhead panoramas of the citadel and surrounding Andes.
  • Tour length 4-6 hours (3-4 hours for hike round-trip).
  • Physical Level: Challenging with stairs; ideal for fit hikers. Age 12+ (some sources say 18+). Year-round. High demand in high season.
Route 1-B: Upper Terrace
  • Short hike to upper agricultural terraces and Guardian’s House for iconic panoramic photos; loop back via lower platform.
  • Tour length: 1-2.5 hours (max 3.5 hours).
  • Physical Level:Most basic option; great for quick visits. Any age. Year-round. Lowest demand.
Route 1-C: Inti Punku (Sun Gate)
  • Upper terraces for views, plus a hike to the Sun Gate (Intipunku, 3,745m), the historic Inca Trail entrance, offering misty mountain glimpses of the site.
  • Tour length: 2.5-4 hours (1.5-3 hours for hike round-trip).
  • Physical Level: Moderate uphill; family-friendly. Age any (kid-friendly add-on). Seasonal: High season only (June 1/19 – Oct 15/Nov 2). Not for Inca Trail arrivals.
Route 1-D: Inca Bridge
  • Upper terraces for photos, plus a flat cliffside hike to the ancient Inca Bridge (drawbridge gateway to the Amazon).
  • Tour length: 2-3 hours (1 hour for hike round-trip).
  • Physical Level: Thrilling due to cliffs; two view chances. Age 12+ (or 18+ for safety). Seasonal: High season only (June 1/19 – Oct 15/Nov 2).

Circuit 2: Classic Route (Comprehensive Citadel Tour)

The most popular and complete option, covering ~80% of the site including upper and lower sectors, temples, plazas, and classic views. Starts from upper entrance, enters via traditional gate. Ideal for first-timers. Difficulty: Average (some stairs). Year-round; advance booking: 3-4 months due to high demand. Maps show paths through key sites like Sacred Plaza and Temple of the Sun viewpoint.

Route 2-A: Designed Route (Classic)
  • Classic photo from below Guardian’s House, then tour urban/religious areas: Temple of the Sun (overhead view), Main Temple, Temple of the Three Windows, Sacred Plaza, Intihuatana (view only, closed), Sacred Rock, Water Mirrors, Fountains, agricultural sector.
  • Tour length: 2.5-3 hours (max 2.5 hours permitted).
  • Notes/Restrictions: Broad coverage; skips Temple of the Condor. Any age. Specific hours for some sites (e.g., Sun Temple 1-4 PM).
Route 2-B: Lower Terrace
  • Similar to 2-A but starts with higher loop through upper terraces (llamas often present) and Inca Quarry; then same core tour of temples and plazas.
  • Duration: 2.5-3 hours (max 2.5 hours permitted).
  • Physical Level Minimal difference from 2-A; adds terrace views. Any age. Year-round.

Circuit 3: Royalty Route (Lower Citadel and Hikes)

Lower urban/residential areas and royal buildings, entering via lower gate or Sun Gate (for Inca Trail). No classic upper viewpoint (alternative photos from agricultural sector). Ideal for limited mobility, families, or hike add-ons. Difficulty: Easy to challenging. Year-round unless noted; advance booking: 1-3 months (higher for hikes). Maps highlight lower paths with hike branches; mandatory for standard Inca Trail (upgrades available).

Route 3-A: Huayna Picchu Mountain
  • Lower tour (Temple of the Sun base, Inca House, Three Gates, Sacred Rock, Temple of the Condor, Water Mirrors, Fountains), plus steep hike to Huayna Picchu summit for views down on the site.
  • Duration: 3-4 hours (1.5-3 hours for hike).
  • Notes/Restrictions: Exhilarating but vertigo-inducing stairs/cables. Age 12+ (or 18+). Year-round; not rainy season. Highest demand (book 3-4 months).
Route 3-B: Designed Route (Royalty)
  • Core lower tour: Agricultural terraces, Temple of the Sun, Inca House, Sacred Rock, Temple of the Condor, warehouses.
  • Duration: 1.5-2.5 hours (max 3.5 hours).
  • Notes/Restrictions: Shortest/easiest; good for mobility issues (benches available). Any age. Year-round.
Route 3-C: Great Cavern (Temple of the Moon)
  • Lower tour plus off-trail hike to the Great Cavern (mystic cave with windows) on Huayna Picchu’s backside.
  • Duration: 4-6 hours (3-4 hours for hike).
  • Notes/Restrictions: Moderate; less crowded. Age 12+ (or 18+). Seasonal: High season only.
Route 3-D: Huchuy Picchu
  • Lower tour plus easier hike to Huchuy Picchu (smaller peak) for panoramic views.
  • Duration: 2.5-3.5 hours (40-60 minutes for hike).
  • Notes/Restrictions: Less steep; family-friendly. Age 12+ (or 18+). Seasonal: High season only.

Notes

  • Circuit 2 for full exploration; Circuit 1 for views/hikes; Circuit 3 for lower focus or Inca Trail. Combine circuits for complete access (e.g., 1 + 3 for views + hikes).
  • High season (June-Oct/Nov) adds routes but increases crowds/prices. Check closures; rainy season (Nov-Apr) affects hikes.
  • Prepare for altitude (2,430m); no drones/plastic bottles. Tickets non-transferable; buy early via official sites.
  • Increased capacity; no separate Circuit 4 (integrated into 3 for Inca Trail); Intihuatana closed permanently (view only).
  • Advance booking: 5-6 months

For the latest, visit Our official page  for Maps and diagrams are available on these resources for visual planning.

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