Machu Picchu by Train Independent Short Break

Cusco

Welcome to Cusco – the heart and soul of Peru. Welcome meeting at 2 pm in the hotel lobby. Take it slow while your body adjusts to the altitude (3,400 m above sea level). After the meeting, your guide takes you on an orientation walk around Cusco: visit the facade of Qoricancha Temple, the local San Pedro market, the main square, the 12 Angled Stone, Regocijo Square, San Blas Square and the Chocolate Museum where you can sample hot chocolate made from local cacao beans. Evening is free to explore at your own pace.

Cusco – Sacred Valley – Aguas Calientes

Pick-up from hotel at approximately 7–7:20 am. Head to the Sacred Valley (Wilcamayo), a lush and fertile valley that has long been the main food source for the high Andes. First stop: Pisac ruins with views over the Pisac Valley and town. Explore the market. Drive through fertile lands, stop for lunch in Urubamba, then continue to Ollantaytambo to visit the archaeological site. Board the train to Aguas Calientes, travelling through the winding Urubamba Valley and arriving in the cloud forest (2,040 m) at the foot of Machu Picchu. Travel time approximately 2 hours.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Machu Picchu – Cusco

After an early breakfast, catch a bus to Machu Picchu (first bus departs 5:30 am, estimated arrival 6–6:30 am). A local guide leads a 2-hour tour through the ruins – temples, palaces and living quarters. Visitors must follow a pre-determined circuit route; personal exploration after the guided visit is not permitted. Return to Cusco by train to Ollantaytambo then transfer to Cusco. Trip ends on arrival in Cusco. Do not book onward flights before 10 pm. Travel time approximately 3 hours.

Meals: Breakfast