Discovering Machu Picchu, one of the most awe-inspiring wonders of the world, is an experience many dream of having at least once in their lifetime. But how ¿can you make sure you get the most out of your visit to this majestic Inca sanctuary? With so many options available, planning a trip to Machu Picchu can seem overwhelming, especially if you have limited time. This is where our detailed guide comes into play: we present the best options to explore Machu Picchu 5 days, ensuring you enjoy every moment to the fullest, without rushing, and with the confidence that you won’t miss any details.
Table of Contents
Five days is the ideal time to fully immerse yourself in the magic of Machu Picchu and its surroundings. This itinerary will allow you not only to discover the citadel but also to explore other hidden gems of the Sacred Valley, experience local culture, and relax in the charming nearby towns. With the best guided tours, you’ll uncover the mysteries of Inca architecture.
Whether you’re an adventurer seeking to conquer every trail or a traveler who prefers a more relaxed and cultural experience, this 5-day plan is designed to suit all travel styles. We’ll explore how to maximize each day, from your arrival in Cusco to your farewell to Machu Picchu, visiting must-see places like Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Tambomachay, Ollantaytambo, and Aguas Calientes. Additionally, we’ll provide recommendations on the best times to visit, how to avoid the crowds, and what to bring to ensure a comfortable and hassle-free experience.
Get ready for an unforgettable journey where each day brings you closer to the mystique of Machu Picchu, allowing you to discover its deepest secrets while marveling at the spectacular Andean landscapes. With this guide, you’ll be ready to embark on a five-day adventure that will be etched in your memory forever.
Machu Picchu 5-Day Itinerary
With this 5-day program, you’ll be completely amazed by the astonishing imperial city and its impressive Inca architecture. Every place you visit will speak of the rich cultural heritage. Start with a city tour in Cusco and discover important attractions like Qoricancha, a sacred site for the Incas where they worshipped the Sun god, marveling at its precisely joined walls and the extraordinary Sacsayhuaman fortress. You’ll also explore the Sacred Valley, the Inca jewel of Pisaq with its terraces, and Ollantaytambo, with its stone streets that preserve Inca architecture, leaving you in awe. Finally, take a tour of Machu Picchu, one of the wonders of the world. Without a doubt, a short trip that will leave you with lasting memories. Keep reading to discover more.
Day 1: Airport – Transfer to Your Hotel in Cusco
According to your flight schedule, our team will welcome you at the airport and take you to your hotel in Cusco, where you’ll be greeted with a cup of the famous coca tea. You’ll have the afternoon free to acclimate. The city of Cusco is at an altitude of 3,399 meters above sea level.
Keep in mind:
The first thing to consider upon arrival is the altitude. If you feel very tired, it’s best to rest for a few hours, and upon waking, drink plenty of coca tea. If you feel fine, drink coca tea to help you gain more energy and oxygenate your body.
It’s necessary to exercise your body a bit by taking light walks (you can stroll around the Plaza de Armas, admire the colonial buildings, or do some shopping).
It’s important to drink plenty of water since your body is still acclimating.
There’s something you definitely shouldn’t miss: during your free days, visit the Qosqo Native Art Center, a show of typical music and dances from the region—a true spectacle. The show starts at 6:00 p.m., but we suggest arriving at least 40 minutes early to get in line, as it’s a very popular place. If your package includes the general tourist ticket, you’ll have free access to this beautiful event.
Day 2: Cusco City Tour (Cathedral, Qoricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay) – 5-Hour Tour
Today, you’ll visit the best places in Cusco and the surrounding areas. We’ll start with the Cathedral, located in the Plaza de Armas, the city’s main church, built on the palace of the Inca Wiracocha. The Cathedral houses over 300 paintings from the Cusco School of Art. Next, we’ll visit Qoricancha, which means “temple of gold” in Quechua, the first temple built by the Incas, once covered with large amounts of gold and silver. We’ll then leave Cusco and arrive at the Sacsayhuaman complex, famous for its enormous stone blocks weighing over 150 tons. During the Inca era, it was considered the temple of lightning, the “god Illapa.” Next, we’ll visit the Q’enqo temple, a place dedicated to the Pacha Mama (Mother Earth), where you can see carved stone structures. After that, we’ll reach the impressive Inca fort of Puka Pukara, which means Red Fortress in Quechua. Finally, we’ll arrive at Tambomachay, where we’ll see the sacred temple dedicated to the worship of water, which likely also served as a purification bath for Inca rulers. In the late afternoon, we’ll return to Cusco, where we’ll drop you off at your hotel or, if you prefer, in the Plaza de Armas.
Day 3: Sacred Valley of the Incas – Aguas Calientes (Pisaq, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo) – 8-Hour Tour
Today, you’ll explore the wonderful Sacred Valley of the Incas. We’ll start the day by visiting the archaeological complex of Pisaq, located on top of a mountain. This magnificent place consists of groups of terraces and architectural structures scattered along the slopes and at the top of the mountain, blending the landscape with the amazing constructions. Next, we’ll head to the artisan market where you can admire a wide variety of handicrafts from ancient times.
We’ll pass through Urubamba, where we’ll stop for lunch, enjoying typical Peruvian cuisine with a good variety of dishes, including salads, soups, main courses, the famous ceviche, and delicious desserts.
After lunch, we’ll visit the architectural complex of Ollantaytambo, a living town built to guard the entrance to this part of the valley and protect it from possible invaders. We’ll have the opportunity to walk through its streets and get a clearer idea of how this military, religious, and cultural center functioned during the Inca Empire. After the visit, we’ll board the train to Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival, the hotel representative will be waiting to take you to your hotel.
Day 4: Machu Picchu – Cusco – 2.5-Hour Tour
In the morning, at the agreed time, our guide will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the bus station, where we’ll ascend 400 meters along a zigzagging road for 30 minutes to reach the incredible wonder of the world, “The Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu,” also known as “The Lost City of the Incas.” Upon arrival at the Machu Picchu citadel, our guide will show your entrance tickets, and we’ll begin the tour around the entire citadel. For approximately 2.5 hours, we’ll visit the main attractions of Machu Picchu. After the guided tour, our guide will leave you in an area where you can take photos.
In the afternoon, we’ll return to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have free time to enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants or, if you prefer, at the Sanctuary Lodge (lunch is at your own expense).
After lunch, we’ll board the return train to Ollantaytambo (depending on train departure availability), retracing the same route we took to get there. Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, the train representative will be waiting to take you to the bus that will bring you back to your hotel in Cusco.
Day 5: Hotel – Cusco Airport (Book Return Flights at Your Preferred Time)
As we reach the final stage of the trip, depending on your flight schedule, we’ll pick you up from your hotel and take you to Cusco airport. This marks the end of our services. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in this magical corner of the world!
Additional Tips for Your 5-Day Machu Picchu Trip
Being ready for a trip to Machu Picchu is as exciting as it is challenging. With our 5-day itinerary already planned, it’s time to fine-tune the details to make your experience flawless. Here are additional tips to help you make the most of your adventure at this wonder of the world, ensuring every moment is unique and perfect.
Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu
Choosing the best time to visit Machu Picchu can make the difference between a memorable experience and one that doesn’t meet your expectations. The high season, from June to August, offers the driest and sunniest weather, ideal for exploring trails and enjoying clear views. However, it’s also the busiest time. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons, from April to May or September to October. Although there may be some rain, you’ll have the opportunity to experience Machu Picchu with fewer tourists and a more peaceful atmosphere.
What to Pack: Essentials
Packing the right items is key to enjoying your trip without a hitch. Here’s a list of essentials to take with you:
Lightweight, quick-drying clothing: The weather in Machu Picchu can vary, so make sure to bring layers that allow you to adapt to temperature changes.
Waterproof jacket: Rain is common, so a water-resistant jacket will keep you dry during unexpected showers.
Sun protection: Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the strong UV rays.
Reusable water bottles: Stay hydrated while exploring and reduce plastic use.
Comfortable, non-slip shoes: The trails can be uneven, so good footwear is essential to avoid slips and blisters.
Camera and charger: You won’t want to miss the opportunity to capture every moment of your adventure.
How to Avoid Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness can affect anyone traveling to high altitudes like those in Machu Picchu. Here are some tips to minimize its effects:
Acclimate gradually: Arrive in Cusco a few days before your visit to Machu Picchu to allow your body to adjust to the altitude.
Stay well-hydrated: Drink plenty of water before and during your trip to stay hydrated and help your body adapt.
Avoid heavy meals: Opt for light, easy-to-digest meals to reduce the risk of stomach discomfort.
Get enough rest: Make sure to sleep well before your excursions so your body is in top condition.
Don’t let these details hold you back! Prepare for an unforgettable experience at Machu Picchu with our expert tips and start planning your trip today. Book your adventure now and ensure every moment of your visit to Machu Picchu is as impressive as you’ve dreamed. Your journey to one of the wonders of the world awaits!
Choosing the perfect tour to discover Machu Picchu in 5 days is essential to ensuring an enriching and hassle-free experience. Whether you seek adventure, culture, or relaxation, there’s a tour designed to offer you the best of this majestic destination.
A well-planned tour will not only allow you to explore the Inca citadel in depth but also enjoy the stunning landscapes of the Sacred Valley, the picturesque nearby towns, and the rich culture surrounding this ancient wonder. When choosing the best tour, consider key factors such as the trip duration, the type of activities you prefer, and the level of comfort you desire.
Don’t let planning overwhelm you. With the right guide, you can enjoy a smooth and spectacular experience, making every day a new adventure. It’s time to take the next step and start planning your trip to Machu Picchu! Click here to discover our customizable tour offers and find the perfect itinerary for you. Get ready for 5 days of unparalleled exploration, surrounded by beauty, history, and the magic of one of the most iconic places in the world. Book now and start counting down the days to your unforgettable adventure at Machu Picchu!
