Tours to Machu picchu

This route is a beautifully scenic two-day hike to both Humantay Lake and Salkantay Lake. You first visit the remote indigenous villages of Iscuchaca and Limatambo, which are still keeping Inca traditions alive. Humantay Lake is situated at the base of the majestic glacier-covered Salkantay Mountain Range.  The views are absolutely breathtaking!  On the second day, you hike to the highest point of the trek at 4,650m/15,367ft.  From this vantage point, you will be in awe of the massive Salkantay, Humantay, and Huayanay snow-capped mountains surrounding you. Finally, you take a detour off the main trail to the panoramic and truly exquisite turquoise Salkantay Lake.  On this two-day adventure, you enjoy the peacefulness of nature and at the same time its exquisite beauty.

Cusco • Ausangate • Rainbow Mountain • Machu Picchu

Designed in response to trekker feedback, our 4-day Ausangate Trek to Machu Picchu with Rainbow Mountain combines Peru’s most dramatic alpine scenery with world-famous landmarks. Over the first two days, you will hike beneath sacred snow-capped peaks, past turquoise glacial lakes, and across high-altitude passes. Day three features an early-morning visit to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) before heading to the Sacred Valley to catch a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes. Your expedition culminates on Day four with an unforgettable guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu Citadel. Supported by expert local guides and a professional trekking chef, this trek offers the ultimate high-altitude adventure.

Highlights

• High-Altitude Wilderness Trekking: Explore remote trails beneath the sacred peak of Mount Ausangate, surrounded by turquoise glacial lakes, roaring cascades, and native wildlife.
• Early-Morning Rainbow Mountain: Reach the summit viewpoint of Vinicunca (5,030 m / 16,502 ft) early in the day to enjoy crowd-free views and pristine photo opportunities.
• Scenic Sacred Valley Train Journey: Travel by Expedition train from Ollantaytambo through the Urubamba valley directly to Aguas Calientes.
• Guided Machu Picchu Citadel Tour: Experience a comprehensive 2.5-hour expert-led tour of Machu Picchu’s most vital temples, terraces, and historic sectors.
• Full Trekker Support: Travel with confidence accompanied by an expert English-speaking guide, professional mountain chef, emergency riding horses, and full mule support for your gear.

Cusco • Abra Malaga • Santa Maria • Santa Teresa • Machu Picchu

The Inca Jungle Trail 4 Days / 3 Nights is the ultimate multi-sport adventure route to Machu Picchu. Designed for active travelers, this action-packed tour combines downhill mountain biking, whitewater rafting, high-canopy ziplining, and scenic jungle trekking along authentic Inca trails.

Starting at Málaga Pass (4,350 m / 14,357 ft), you descend through changing microclimates into the lush high jungle of Santa María and Santa Teresa. Along the way, visit local fruit plantations, soak in natural hot springs, and capture panoramic views of Machu Picchu from the ruins of Llactapata before completing your journey with a guided tour of the iconic citadel.

Highlights

• Multi-Sport Action: Descend 3 hours on mountain bikes from alpine passes, navigate Class II–III rapids on the Urubamba River, and zip through high jungle canopies.
• Exclusive Machu Picchu Views: Hike to Llactapata for a rare vantage point of the citadel framed by Huayna Picchu.
• Authentic Inca Trails: Trek along ancient stone paths winding through avocado, coffee, and coca plantations.
• Cocalmayo Hot Springs: Unwind in natural, mineral-rich thermal pools after active trail days.
• Comfort & Full Support: Enjoy cozy countryside lodges, a 2-star hotel in Aguas Calientes, top-tier safety gear, and expert English-speaking adventure guides.

Reaching Machu Picchu by road offers a distinct sense of adventure. Instead of taking the train, this budget-friendly 2-day trip leads you through high Andean passes, tropical cloud forests, and scenic overland routes. Traveling from the high peaks of Cusco to the edge of the Amazon basin, you experience a dramatic shift in landscapes and microclimates.

Designed for active travelers, this journey keeps the full magic of the Inca citadel intact. Cross Abra Málaga pass, descend into the warm Santa Teresa valley, and walk along the scenic railway line to Aguas Calientes before exploring iconic Machu Picchu. Arriving by road rewards you with an unforgettable view of the Lost City rising above the mist.

Why Choose Machu Picchu by Car?

Traveling to Machu Picchu by car turns standard transit into an overland expedition through Peru’s extreme geography, taking you from 4,300-meter snow-capped passes down to tropical cloud forests at a fraction of the train cost. It is the ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking scenic mountain drives, distinct microclimates, and an iconic jungle hike over a basic train seat.

Highlights

• Scenic Mountain Drive: Cross the dramatic Abra Málaga pass at 4,300 meters (14,107 feet) with sweeping views of glaciers and alpine valleys.
• Transition to Cloud Forest: Descend from high Andean peaks into the warm, tropical valleys of Santa María and Santa Teresa.
• Railway Jungle Walk: Enjoy a flat, scenic 3-hour walk (10 km / 6.2 miles) along the railway tracks from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes surrounded by lush flora and the Urubamba River.
• Guided Machu Picchu Tour: Explore the ancient Inca citadel alongside an expert guide on Circuit 2, discovering temples, sacred plazas, and agricultural terraces.
• Budget-Friendly Exploration: Experience the beauty of the region at a fraction of the cost of standard train tours while taking the adventurous path.

Cusco • Pisac • Ollantaytambo • Aguas Calientes • Machu Picchu

Discover the essential wonders of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu on this comprehensive 2-day experience stretching from Pisac to Ollantaytambo, the Sacred Valley features vibrant indigenous markets, traditional weaving communities, and ancient Inca archaeological sites. During this tour, our guide leads you through the fortress of Pisac, the agricultural laboratory of Moray, the pre-Inca Salt Mines of Maras, and the living Inca village of Ollantaytambo. Finally, the journey culminates with an early exploration of Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of the World.

Highlights

• Classic Sacred Valley Sites: Tour Pisac Market, Pisac Ruins, Moray, Maras Salt Mines, and Ollantaytambo Fortress in a single day.
• Agricultural Innovations: Discover how the Incas cultivated over 250 crop varieties using Moray’s circular microclimate terraces.
• Maras Salt Mines: View thousands of hand-carved salt ponds that subterranean natural springs supply with mineral-rich water.
• Scenic Train Journey: In addition, enjoy a picturesque rail trip through the Urubamba River valley to Aguas Calientes.
• Guided Machu Picchu Tour: Explore the iconic citadel alongside an expert local guide with options to hike Huayna Picchu.

Cross Salkantay Pass, Relax in Cloud Forest Sky Domes & Discover Machu Picchu

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 3 Days is our shortest Salkantay adventure, perfect for travelers with limited time who want to see Humantay Lake, cross Salkantay Pass, and reach Machu Picchu.

This challenging trek covers 23.5 km on Day 1 alone, crossing Salkantay Pass at 4,650 m / 15,255 ft, the highest point of the route. You will sleep in exclusive Sky Domes at Collpapampa (2,850 m) with private bathrooms, sauna, and jacuzzi, then hike via Llactapata ruins (2,650 m) for your first view of Machu Picchu across the valley, before your guided tour of Machu Picchu on Day 3.

Note: Day 1 is very demanding with 10 to 11 hours hiking. We recommend 2 days acclimatization in Cusco (3,350 m) before this trek.

The Express Alpine-to-Jungle Challenge

While the longer Salkantay routes spread the distance over 4 or 5 days, this specialized 3-day itinerary brings together high-alpine passes, cloud forest glamping, and original Inca trails into a streamlined, high-energy adventure.

• Demanding Alpine Ascent & High Pass: Challenge yourself on Day 1 with a rewarding climb over the formidable Salkantay Pass (4,650 m / 15,255 ft), taking in dramatic views of snow-capped peaks and glacial valleys.
• Luxury Glamping at Collpapampa: Unwind after an intense 23.5 km hike in exclusive Sky Domes featuring private bathrooms, sauna, jacuzzi, and Wi-Fi deep in the cloud forest.
• Inca Trail & Llactapata Ruins Overlook: Follow authentic Inca stone steps to Llactapata (2,650 m / 8,694 ft) for an extraordinary, direct view of Machu Picchu across the valley.
• Small Groups & Direct Route: Travel in small groups of no more than 8 guests with professional local guides, top-quality logistics, and an efficient route ending with Circuit 2 at Machu Picchu.

Highlights

• Salkantay Pass Crossing: Reach the highest point of the trek at 4,650 m (15,256 ft) surrounded by immense Andean glaciers and mountain peaks.
• Luxury Sky Domes Accommodation: Sleep in exclusive Sky Domes at Collpapampa (2,850 m / 9,350 ft) with private bathroom, sauna, jacuzzi, and Wi-Fi.
• Llactapata Inca Trail & Ruins: Walk ancient Inca stone paths to a rare overlook directly facing the Machu Picchu citadel across the Aobamba Valley.
• Machu Picchu Citadel Guided Tour: Enjoy a comprehensive 2-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu (Circuit 2 with classic photo viewpoint).
• Optional Humantay Lake Horseback Excursion: Experience the turquoise glacial waters of Humantay Lake (4,200 m / 13,780 ft) on horseback ($70 USD extra due to the long Day 1).

Discover the legendary ancient citadel of Machu Picchu in a single, unforgettable day, traveling in maximum comfort aboard the panoramic Vistadome Train. This high-end experience seamlessly blends Peru’s extraordinary Andean landscapes with top-tier convenience and style.

First, your journey begins early in Cusco, taking private tourist transportation through the Sacred Valley to the historic station at Ollantaytambo. Next, you will board the Vistadome Train, famous for its leather seats, expansive panoramic views and ceiling windows, complimentary local snacks, and live Andean music performances.

During the scenic rail journey, you will descend through the dramatic Urubamba River canyon as high mountains transition into lush cloud forest. Afterward, upon reaching Aguas Calientes, you will take the short shuttle bus ride up to the entrance of Machu Picchu Citadel. Here, our expert local guide leads an in-depth tour of the main temples, plazas, and sacred structures.

Finally, after exploring this New 7 Wonder of the World, you will return via Vistadome Train and private transfer directly back to your hotel in Cusco.

The Vistadome Experience: Comfort & Panoramic Views

The Vistadome Train is engineered specifically for immersive travel through the Andes. Featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and roof panels, it offers panoramic vistas of the changing terrain while passengers enjoy comfortable leather seating, regional snacks, and live cultural performances along the way.

The Landscape & Experience

• Sacred Valley & River Canyon: Descend through the dramatic Urubamba River valley as high alpine peaks transition into lush tropical cloud forest.
• Expert Guided Citadel Tour: Tour iconic sectors including the Temple of the Sun, the Main Plaza, and the Intihuatana Solar Clock with a certified bilingual guide.
• Onboard Cultural Shows: Enjoy an authentic Saqra dance performance and an Andean alpaca fashion demonstration on the return train journey.

Highlights

• Panoramic Vistadome Train: Travel both ways aboard the premium Vistadome train, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, complimentary snacks, and onboard cultural shows.
• Scenic Sacred Valley Transfer: Enjoy comfortable private round-trip transportation between Cusco and Ollantaytambo train station.
• Guided Citadel Exploration: Tour iconic sectors including the Temple of the Sun, the Main Plaza, and the Sacred Rock alongside an expert bilingual guide.
• Cloud Forest Scenery: Experience the dramatic natural transition from high Andean peaks to lush cloud forest valleys along the Urubamba River.
• Seamless 1-Day Itinerary: Maximize your travel time with a fully organized, hassle-free day trip designed to highlight the best of Peru in a single day.

Experience the iconic ancient citadel of Machu Picchu on a seamless, budget-friendly 1-day excursion aboard the classic Expedition Train. This popular itinerary offers breathtaking Andean views, comfortable travel, and an immersive guided exploration of Peru’s legendary World Heritage Site.

First, your journey begins early in the morning in Cusco, taking private tourist transportation through the Sacred Valley to the historic train station at Ollantaytambo. Next, you will board the Expedition Train, designed for travelers seeking comfort and value with overhead windows and spacious seating.

During the scenic rail ride, you will descend along the rushing Vilcanota River as dramatic snow-capped peaks transition into lush cloud forest valleys. Afterward, upon arriving in Aguas Calientes, you will board the short Consettur shuttle bus up to the main entrance of Machu Picchu Citadel. Here, our expert bilingual guide leads a captivating 2-hour tour through the main temples, plazas, and sacred Inca structures.

Finally, after exploring the ruins and capturing unforgettable photos, you will return via Expedition Train and private transfer directly back to your hotel in Cusco.

The Expedition Train Experience: Comfort & Value

The Expedition Train is engineered specifically for adventurous travelers seeking quality, safety, and comfort at an accessible price point. Featuring overhead viewing windows and spacious seats, it offers unobstructed panoramas of the changing terrain as you follow the Vilcanota River through steep granite canyons.

The Landscape & Experience

• Sacred Valley & River Canyon: Descend through the dramatic Urubamba/Vilcanota River valley as high alpine peaks transition into sub-tropical cloud forest.
• Expert Guided Citadel Tour: Tour iconic sectors including the Temple of the Sun, the Main Plaza, and the Sacred Rock with a certified bilingual guide.
• Convenient 1-Day Gateway: Designed to maximize your time in Peru without sacrificing quality, providing a smooth, fully organized round-trip experience from Cusco.

Highlights

• Classic Expedition Train: Experience comfortable, budget-friendly rail travel featuring overhead viewing windows and scenic views of the Urubamba canyon.
• Scenic Sacred Valley Route: Enjoy private round-trip transportation between your Cusco hotel and Ollantaytambo station.
• Guided Citadel Exploration: Tour key Inca sectors including the Temple of the Sun, the Main Plaza, and the Sacred Rock alongside a professional guide.

Discover the magic of Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu in three unforgettable days.

Part 1: Cusco & Sacred Valley Exploration

Journey through the historic heart of the Inca Empire and the vibrant Andean countryside, blending iconic archaeological wonders with immersive cultural traditions.

Sites & Experiences Included:

• Qorikancha: The primary Sun Temple of the Incas showcasing masterful stone masonry.
• San Pedro Market: Cusco’s energetic central market for sampling regional fruits and local life.
• Sacsayhuamán: The massive megalithic stone fortress overlooking Cusco.
• Pisac: Mountain-crest Inca ruins and a vibrant artisan handicraft market.
• Moray: Concentric circular agricultural terraces designed to test microclimates.
• Maras Salt Mines: Thousands of terraced, cascading saltwater pools fed by a natural spring.
• Chinchero: Traditional village for colonial church views and live natural weaving demonstrations.
• Ollantaytambo: The “living Inca town” featuring stone fortresses and original urban layouts.
• Cultural Encounters: Visits to an authentic Cuy (guinea pig) farm and traditional chicha tasting.

Part 2: Machu Picchu Citadel

Arrive early to experience the iconic Lost City of the Incas bathed in morning light, taking in its sacred architecture and dramatic cloud forest backdrop.

What You Will See & Experience:

• Machu Picchu Citadel (Circuit 2): Guided exploration through the premier classic circuit of the ruins.
• Sacred Temples & Sectors: The Temple of the Sun, the Room of the Three Windows, the Intihuatana (Solar Clock), and the Main Sacred Plaza.
• Agricultural Terraces: Sweeping, stepped terraces offering panoramic postcard views over the Urubamba canyon.
• Optional Summit Hikes: Add-on permits for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for 360-degree high-angle views.
• Scenic Railway Route: Panoramic train travel along the Urubamba River canyon to complete your loop back to Cusco.

Highlights

• Cusco Imperial Tour: Discover Qorikancha, San Pedro Market, and the majestic stone fortress of Sacsayhuamán.
• Sacred Valley Wonders: Tour the agricultural terraces of Moray, the terraced salt pans of Maras, and the ruins of Pisac and Ollantaytambo.
• Cultural Encounters: Learn traditional Andean weaving in Chinchero, taste traditional chicha, and visit a local Cuy farm.
• Guided Machu Picchu Exploration: Tour the iconic citadel on Circuit 2 with an expert guide, with optional mountain trail add-ons.
• Scenic Railway Journey: Travel through the Urubamba River canyon aboard PeruRail with private ground transfers included.