Classic Cusco 4D/3N

Cusco Classic Itinerary in 4 days: 

Day 1: Pick up at Cusco Airport - City Tour

After meeting you at the airport, we will transfer you to the hotel, where you can rest and acclimatize your body to the altitude of the city and take the City Tour in Cusco (optional). 

Cusco Cathedral: The tour begins in the main Catholic temple of Cusco and one of the most emblematic monuments of America, the Cathedral or Basilica of the Virgin of the Assumption, Cultural Heritage of Peru. 

Temple of Qoricancha:  It was the main sacred temple for the Incas. Known as the Temple of the Sun or Golden Temple. Although much of the wealth of this place was looted, you will be amazed by the majesty of the place and the architectural fusion shows an incredible history of Hispanic imposition, arising in this same place which is now the Convent of Santo Domingo. 

Sacsayhuaman Fortress: A place that contrasts nature and architecture in a masterful way. It also has megalithic walls with stones up to 9 meters high, embedded on a natural carpet that offers a beautiful panoramic view. 

Qenqo: This ancient ritual site, known as the Labyrinth, is made up of tunnels or subway galleries that intertwine. We will see curious channels carved in the form of a zigzag. A true work of art carved in an immense monolith that worships the Pachamama or Mother Earth. 

Puca Pucara: A place destined for military purposes, also known as Red Fortress due to the color of its stones joined together to form beautiful walls, canals and stairways, from whose terraces you will be able to see an incomparable landscape. 

Tambomachay: An archaeological site that was intended, as its translation indicates, to be a "resting place". The Incas worshiped water, thanks to canals and aqueducts made of stone that are still functioning. 

Main Square: In ancient times it was an important administrative, religious and cultural center of the Tahuantinsuyo. It contains important works that we will admire with our guide.

After this extensive tour, it is time to return to the lodge where we can rest and assimilate all the emotions of the first day.

Day 2: Cusco City - Sacred Valley of the Incas – Cusco

After breakfast, we prepare for an exciting day getting to know the most emblematic of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Around 7:30 - 8:00, we will board our transportation to the first stop that gives you a panoramic view of what you are about to discover, the Taray Viewpoint gives you a wide view of the valley. 

Then you know Pisac, whose most important attraction, the Ruins or Archaeological Center, an impressive architectural complex made up of circular terraces, multiple temples such as the Intiwatana; towers, stone monuments, rooms and spaces full of beauty on top of a mountain.

We visit the town and market of Pisac, where we could buy handicrafts from the region. Then we will continue the tour to Urubamba, where a buffet lunch awaits us.

After recharging your batteries, you will discover the Ollantaytambo Ruins, which preserve the Inca architectural design in imposing lithic structures, terraces, temples, walls, fountains and other heritage pieces, which in ancient times formed a military, agricultural and religious center. There will be free time to visit the magical town of Ollantaytambo, known for being the only Inca Living City. 

We end the tour with a stop in Chinchero, where we will visit a textile center and learn more about the textile techniques used by the Incas and the artisanal processing of wool.

Day 3: Cusco - Machu Picchu Citadel – Cusco 

For many, this is the most awaited day. After discovering so many majestic places, expectations are high and will surely be exceeded when getting to know our World Heritage Site.

The day starts early when we pick you up at your accommodation in Cusco and take you to the train station in Ollantaytambo. Outside the station you will find local stalls where you can buy everything from food (breakfast) to souvenirs. The train to Aguas Calientes takes approximately 1 hour 45 minutes and once you arrive at your destination, our representative and guide will be waiting for you outside the train station. 

The tour in the Inca Citadel takes you to discover the almost 200 iconic tourist attractions of the Sacred City, distributed in temples, squares, water fountains, monuments and residences; not to mention its natural spaces full of grandeur and spirituality. 

Being a private tour to the citadel of Machu Picchu, the times will be managed at your pace, where apart from taking the best pictures of the place, you can appreciate and enjoy the majesty of the Inca empire. 

After visiting one of the 7 Wonders of the World, we will return by tourist bus to the Aguas Calientes station where we will have lunch and free time to explore the small town before departing to Ollantaytambo. Here, our driver will be waiting for us to board private transportation to your accommodation in Cusco around 22:00. 

Day 4: Cusco - Free Tour 

The fourth day of the tour allows you the freedom to explore the city of Cusco on your own. After receiving recommendations from our tour guide, you can go to the markets, fairs, visit the streets, try local food, shop and discover on your own all that the city has to offer. 

At the appropriate time we will take you to the airport for you to return and design a new Guru Explorers experience. See you next time! 

The price of the Classic Cusco 4D/3N excursion includes: 

• All entrance fees to tourist attractions: Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley (tourist ticket), City Tour.
• Private guided tour in Machu Picchu.
• Private transportation Cusco - Ollantaytambo - Cusco (Machu Picchu Tour).
• Shared tour: City Tour, Sacred Valley.
• Airport transfers. (Arrival & Departure).

The price of the Classic Cusco 4D/3N excursion does not include: 

• Hotel: can be included in the purchase process (based on double, matrimonial or triple rooms).
• Meals: lunch or dinner.

¿ What to bring to the Classic Cusco 4D/3N Tour?

• Consider that Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes are above (2,000 masl /6,561 ft); its climate varies according to the time of the year.
• It is recommended to choose: comfortable shoes, light clothing, hat, gloves, sunglasses, sun block, water, rain gear (especially in November - April).
• Insect repellent (important in Machu Picchu).
• Passport or ID card.
• ISIC card if you are a student.
• Travel insurance.
• Bathing suit and towel (optional for the hot springs of Aguas Calientes).
• Audiovisual recording devices (cell phone, camera, video cameras).
• Cash (local currency).

Considerations for Classic Cusco 4D/3N:

• You must choose the entrance tickets to Machu Picchu in the purchase process. Prices vary if you are not part of the Andean Community (Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador and Colombia).
• The train schedule and access to Machu Picchu may vary depending on availability. We recommend making reservations as far in advance as possible.
• By regulation of the train company, it is not allowed to carry backpacks, suitcases or large bags. The only things allowed are small bags or backpacks up to 5-6 kg.
• For the transfer from Cusco, you should consider that sometimes, access is limited by the narrow streets of the city; if this is the case, the guide will suggest a nearby pick-up point.
• Minors must be accompanied by an adult.
• Due to environmental, climatic or other factors, beyond our control, the travel itinerary may vary. If so, it will be notified promptly.
• “Guru Explorers” values ​​your time and strives to respect the tour schedule; however they may vary for reasons beyond our control (weather, natural disasters, field conditions, among other demonstrable

Cancellation Policies:

• Take the following into account:
  • The Ministry of Culture does not make refunds for the entrance to Machu Picchu, Montaña Machu Picchu or Montaña Huaynapicchu.
  • The train company charges an administrative fee of 10% for cancellations.
• Cancellations within 11 days or more in advance, a penalty of 90 USD per person will be charged, which includes administrative concepts, entrance tickets to Machu Picchu and train company fee.
• Cancellations with 4 to 10 days in advance, will receive 50% of the amount paid.
• Cancellations with 3 days or less in advance, there will be no refund.
• There are no refunds for entrances to Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu Mountain.

Date changes:

• Take the following into account:
  • Date changes are subject to the availability of train tickets and entrance to Machu Picchu.
  • Price difference will be charged for train tickets, if applicable. (Guru Explorers does its best to avoid increases)
  • In the event of the new date of the tour to Machu Picchu is in a different year from the original, the ticket will be lost and an additional 50 USD per person will be charged to buy a new one.
• For changes of dates notified 11 days or more in advance, an additional charge of 15% will apply, which includes change fee for the entrance to Machu Picchu and the train company.
• For changes of dates notified 4 to 10 days or more in advance, an additional charge of 25% will apply, which includes a change fee for the entrance to Machu Picchu and the train company.
• It will not be possible to make date changes 3 days or less in advance.
• There will be no refund in case of delayed flights, train delays, bad weather or other external factors.

We want to be part of that experience that you will live in Classic Cusco 4D/3N.

 If you are still wondering why choose us? We would like you to read 7 outstanding characteristics of our service:

QUALITY: 

When you go to a teacher, it is because you want to answer all the questions. In a matter of travel, money, time and enjoyment, you have to choose the best options available and that is what “Guru Explorers” is all about, giving you the perfect balance for the adventure you DESERVE.

EXPERIENCE: 

To become “Guru Explorers”, we are still world travelers, but experts in Cusco, Lima, and the most important destinations in Peru. We lived bad and good experiences, valuing that the main difference lies in the details, so we know what elements are essential for your trip. We are travelers and we strive to enhance your experience! 

TRANSPARENCY: 

We are here to provide you with the best and most accurate information and description of our tours. We are not supporters of hidden costs, that is why we provide the necessary information so you can choose the inclusions or upgrades you are looking for.

SECURITY: 

You entrust us with your time, your money and your expectations and that is why we fine-tune every detail to guarantee the trip you dream of.

FLEXIBILITY: 

Although we have pre-established packages; they can be adapted to your needs and to make plans that are suited to you, so that you can visit any place in Peru, with the expertise of “Guru Explorers”. We adapt trips for special occasions such as your corporate trips, honeymoon, birthday, social, cultural or sports event during your visit to Peru, offering you complete advice to achieve and exceed your expectations.

PASSION: 

Before being tour guides, we are travelers, explorers, adventurers; That makes us passionate about creating the best experiences in the time you invest for yourself and those you love.

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY: 

We promote Responsible and Sustainable Tourism, not affecting the traveler, nor exploiting the communities that receive it or their environment. We create more human and respectful experiences of Heritage.

¿ What is the weather like in Classic Cusco 4D/3N?

Machu Picchu is located 1,000 meters or 3,280 feet below the city of Cusco and part of it is in the jungle, so rain can appear at any time of the year. The usual maximum temperature can reach 28 °C (82 °F) and the minimum, which is usually in the early morning, can reach -2°C (-36 °F).

¿ Can I go from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu without a bus??

The option of walking up from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu Picchu is available in the private service if desired. In the group service, due to the schedule of the itinerary, the whole group must go together on the way up, so you would only have the possibility to return on foot, if you wish.

As an additional note, it will also depend on the physical condition of each person (take into account that you will also walk in Machu Picchu). The bus takes approximately 25 minutes to go up from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, those who decide to walk up take approximately 1 hour depending on their physical condition.

¿ Can I stay overnight in Aguas Calientes?

Of course, you can send us a message at the time of booking so that we can purchase train tickets on the most convenient days. You also have the option to book a hotel through us by specifying the category of accommodation.

¿ Can I add the lodging in Aguas Calientes?

Yes, you can add it in the purchase process. If you have any questions, please contact a consultant or send us an email to info@guruexplorers.com.

¿ What is the difference between the Expedition and the Vistadome tourist train?

The Expedition tourist train, like the Vistadome, belongs to the PeruRail company.

The Expedition is the base category that we offer in our tours. If you wish to upgrade to Vistadome or another train service, you can select it in the purchase process.

Below we describe the main characteristics of each one:

Expedition

• Comfort: leather seats and regular foot space.
• View: nice panoramic view, however, not as wide as that of the Vistadome train.
• Snacks: a basic snack is included for each passenger, which is usually a biscuit and a drink.

Vistadome

• Comfort: more space for feet and arms compared to the expedition train. Those departing from Ollantaytambo have seats distributed in rows for two passengers; in the case of those departing from Poroy, seats are generally available in groups of 4 passengers, located facing each other with a shared table in the middle.
• View: they have panoramic windows where you can appreciate the scenery much better, including the roof.
• Snacks: snacks are usually served on a set of dishes and include fruit, local bread, hot or cold drinks.
• Extra: there are usually cultural presentations such as typical Peruvian dances and fashion shows with clothes made with alpaca fiber.

For more information on these or other trains to Machu Picchu, please click on this link.

¿ What is the luxury train to Machu Picchu?

The luxury train is the Hiram Bingham, inspired by the 1920's, which departs from Poroy station. If you are interested in taking a tour to Machu Picchu with this luxurious and exclusive service, go to the following link to see the complete itinerary!

¿ What is Huayna Picchu Mountain?

Huayna Picchu Mountain or Waynapicchu (in the language of the Incas) is one of the most important attractions of Cusco and is considered one of the most fascinating short hikes in the world. For those who do not know it, the classic photo of Machu Picchu, shows the Huayna Picchu Mountain in all its splendor. Therefore, when we reach the top, we will contemplate all the fabulous views of the citadel.

This hike is in high demand and entrance tickets to access them are limited, so it is recommended to make a reservation at least 3 or 6 months in advance depending if it is high season. Keep in mind that at Guru Explorers we consider this hike moderate to difficult. Check availability at the time of booking or contact info@guruexplorers.com if you have any questions.

Note: Huayna Picchu Mountain is not allowed for children under 12 years old.

¿ What is the difference between Huayna Picchu Mountain and Machu Picchu Mountain?

The Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountains are two additional sections to the visit to the famous Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

Below we will show some characteristics of both walks:

Montaña Huayna Picchu

• Tickets per day: 400
• Altitude: 2,720 m (8,924 ft)
• Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
• Hiking time: approximately 2.5 hours (round trip)
• Restrictions: not allowed for children under 12 years old.

Montaña Machu Picchu

• Tickets per day: 800
• Altitude: 3,082 m (10112 ft)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Hiking time: approximately 3.5 hours (round trip)
• Restrictions: allowed for all ages

For more information, visit our article "Main Differences between Huayna Picchu Mountain and Machu Picchu Mountain".

¿ What is the difference between Machu Picchu Citadel and Machu Picchu Mountain?

When we talk about Machu Picchu we can get confused between the Machu Picchu Citadel and the Machu Picchu Mountain. The Citadel includes the ruins themselves and the classic tour to the incredible wonder, where you can take the classic photo and have it as a postcard. On the other hand, the Machu Picchu Mountain is an additional hike that can be done the same day of the visit depending on the availability of tickets to do it.

¿ What objects are forbidden on the Machu Picchu Tour?

If you want to access the citadel of Machu Picchu, you must keep in mind that you cannot enter with the following objects: selfie sticks, handbags or backpacks larger than 40 x 35 x 20, umbrellas, alcoholic beverages or cigarettes in general, baby strollers, drones, etc.