Cusco 3 Days Package: Imperial City & Machu Picchu Express

3 Days / 2 Nights

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Tour Overview

Discover the essence of the Inca Empire with this express 3-day itinerary, perfectly designed for travelers with limited time. Start by exploring colonial temples and colossal Inca fortresses around Cusco during the City Tour. The next day, cross the Sacred Valley to reach the enigmatic Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. A short trip packed with unforgettable history, culture, and landscapes.

3 Days / 2 Nights

Places to visit: Cusco, Machu Picchu

Trip starts in: Pick-up from Cusco airport or bus terminal.

Physical Level:

Travel Style:

Group Size: Small groups

Departures: Daily Departures

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1

Welcome, Acclimatization, and Archaeological City Tour

Airport pick-up and transfer. Afternoon City Tour visiting the Cathedral, Qoricancha, Saqsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay.

Day 2

The Wonder of the World, Machu Picchu

Full day tour starting with a transfer to Ollantaytambo. Scenic train to Aguas Calientes, followed by an eco-bus ride to Machu Picchu. Professional guided tour. Return to Cusco by train and transport in the evening.

Day 3

Farewell to the Imperial City

Breakfast at your hotel and private transfer to the airport according to your flight schedule.

Inclusions & Exclusions

Included

Full inbound and outbound transfers.
Direct hotel pick-up for all tours.
Tourist transport for excursions.
Professional bilingual guide.
First aid kit.
Tourist Ticket (entrance to Saqsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, Tambomachay).
Entrance to Cusco Cathedral and Qoricancha.
Round-trip train tickets.
Round-trip bus tickets to Machu Picchu.
Official Machu Picchu entrance.
2 Nights hotel in Cusco.
Connecting transfers.

Not Included

Breakfast on arrival day.
Lunch in Machu Picchu (Day 2).
Lunch on departure day (Day 3).
Dinners throughout the stay.
Services not expressly described.

Packing List

To make your trip as comfortable as possible, we recommend bringing the following items:

Essentials & Documents

Local Currency

Passport or ID Card

Sunscreen

Clothing & Footwear

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Hat / Cap

Waterproof Jacket

Equipment & Gear

Backpack

Power Bank

Water Bottle

Travel Tips & Recommendations

Essential Travel Info

Please read these recommendations carefully to prepare for your trip.

Initial Rest: Drink plenty of water or coca tea and rest on the first morning to adapt to Cusco's altitude.
Luggage: Only a small backpack (max 5 kg) is allowed on the train. Leave your main luggage in Cusco.
Documentation: Original passport or ID is mandatory for the train and Machu Picchu.
Weather: Dress in layers as Cusco is cold and Machu Picchu is warmer and humid.

Optional Upgrades

Customize Your Experience

Enhance your trip with these optional upgrades available upon request.

Accommodation upgrade to 3, 4, or 5-star hotels.
Train upgrade to Vistadome or 360°.
Buffet lunch at Tinkuy Restaurant (at Machu Picchu entrance).

Got Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I have free time to explore Aguas Calientes?

Yes. Depending on your return train schedule, you usually have a couple of hours free after descending from Machu Picchu.

Will altitude sickness be a severe problem?

Most travelers adapt well with rest and hydration. Also, Machu Picchu is lower (2,430m) than Cusco (3,400m), so you'll feel better on Day 2.

Do the tour tickets guarantee skipping lines?

Tickets are pre-purchased, but lines for buses and entry are mandatory on a first-come, first-served basis, managed efficiently by our guide.

What our travelers say

Trusted by Explorers

"Incredible experience on the Inca Trail. The guides were knowledgeable and the food was amazing!"
John D. USA
"365 Viajes made our trip to Machu Picchu seamless. Highly recommend their services."
Sarah M. Canada
"The Salkantay Trek was challenging but totally worth it. The team took great care of us."
David L. UK
"Professional, punctual, and very friendly. Best travel agency in Cusco!"
Elena R. Spain