Discover Machu Picchu
An immersive 8-day journey through the heart of the Inca Empire, from the coastal energy of Lima to the mist-shrouded peaks of Machu Picchu.
Max planned a wonderful week to Cusco and Machu Picchu. The whole experience was delightful, and I would use Mindful Travel again for future trips.
— Lynn Stevens
8 Days
Lima / Lima
Custom
Moderate
April - October
A Timeless Journey to the Clouds
Experience the magic of Peru on a private journey designed for deep cultural immersion. Begin in Lima, the culinary capital, before ascending to the Andes to explore the Sacred Valley's ancient agricultural terraces and vibrant markets.
The highlight of your journey is a comprehensive two-day visit to Machu Picchu, allowing you to witness the citadel at different times of day and escape the crowds. Conclude your adventure in Cusco, the imperial city where Incan walls line Spanish colonial streets.
Trip Highlights
What This Journey Typically Costs
Because every Discover Peru itinerary is fully custom, pricing varies based on travel dates, accommodations, internal flights, and the overall length and rhythm of the journey.
As a general guideline
Travelers exploring Peru’s cultural, historical, and natural highlights can expect a wide range depending on comfort level and regional inclusions. All itineraries are custom-quoted once we understand traveler priorities.
Quotes typically include internal flights, guided experiences, ground transportation, and carefully selected accommodations. International airfare is generally quoted separately.
We’ll walk travelers through the options transparently and recommend what makes the most sense for their trip.
Daily Itinerary
Arrive in Lima
Arrive in Peru’s capital city and transfer to your hotel in either Miraflores or Barranco. Depending on arrival time, you may choose to relax after your flight or begin exploring Lima’s coastal neighborhoods, known for their ocean views, cafés, and vibrant local life.
Highlights
- Private airport transfer
- Hotel check-in
Lima City Tour & Optional Food Tour
Explore Lima’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, visiting landmarks such as the Plaza de Armas and the San Francisco Monastery. For travelers interested in Peruvian gastronomy, an optional food experience offers the chance to sample iconic local flavors and learn why Lima is considered one of South America’s culinary capitals.
Highlights
- Historic Center tour
- Plaza de Armas
- Optional culinary experience
Fly to Cusco & Sacred Valley
Fly to Cusco in the morning and continue directly to the Sacred Valley, allowing for a gentler altitude adjustment. Along the way, take in changing Andean landscapes before enjoying a traditional hacienda-style lunch. The afternoon is designed for rest and acclimation in the heart of the valley.
Highlights
- Scenic flight to Cusco
- Descent to Sacred Valley
- Hacienda lunch
Sacred Valley Tour
Spend the day exploring the Sacred Valley of the Incas, visiting the agricultural terraces of Moray, the striking salt pans of Maras, and the historic fortress town of Ollantaytambo. These sites offer insight into Inca engineering, agriculture, and daily life, all set against dramatic mountain scenery.
Highlights
- Moray agricultural terraces
- Maras salt mines
- Ollantaytambo Fortress
Train to Machu Picchu
Travel by scenic train through the Urubamba River valley toward Machu Picchu, passing cloud forest and riverside landscapes. Upon arrival, explore the Machu Picchu citadel with an expert guide, learning about its history, architecture, and cultural significance. Overnight near the site for easy access the following day.
Highlights
- Vistadome train journey
- Guided Machu Picchu tour
- Overnight in Machu Picchu Pueblo
Machu Picchu Revisit & Return to Cusco
Return to Machu Picchu for a second visit, allowing time to experience different viewpoints or take part in an optional hike such as Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, subject to availability. Later, travel by train back to Cusco through the Andean highlands.
Highlights
- Morning Machu Picchu visit
- Optional Huayna Picchu hike
- Return train to Cusco
Cusco City Tour
Discover Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, on a guided city tour. Visit the Cusco Cathedral, the Korikancha or Temple of the Sun, and the impressive stone complex of Sacsayhuamán, where sweeping views reveal the city’s layered history and Andean setting.
Highlights
- Cusco Cathedral
- Korikancha Temple
- Sacsayhuamán Fortress
Departure
Transfer to the airport for your return flight to Lima and onward international departure, bringing your journey through Peru’s cultural and archaeological highlights to a close.
Highlights
- Private airport transfer
- International departure
What’s Included
Optional Extensions & Variations
Because every journey we design is fully custom, we can adjust timing and add extensions based on what you’re most excited about. Common options include:
Add the Inca Trail
Swap the train for a trek on the legendary Inca Trail. Arrive at Machu Picchu on foot through the Sun Gate.
Combine with Galápagos
Pair the Andes with the Galápagos Islands for the ultimate South American wildlife and culture expedition.
Add the Peruvian Amazon
Extend your journey into the Amazon rainforest with a lodge stay or river cruise, pairing jungle wildlife with the Andes and Machu Picchu.
Explore More Journeys
Discover other ways to experience the wonders of South America.
Mainland Ecuador Itinerary
A thoughtfully structured journey through Quito, the Andes, and the cloud forest, designed for cultural depth and dramatic landscapes.
Galápagos Islands & Ecuadorian Amazon
A biologically immersive journey combining rainforest lodge explorations with a wildlife-rich Galápagos expedition cruise.
Classic Galápagos Expedition Cruise
A classic small-ship Galápagos cruise built around daily island landings, snorkeling, and close-up wildlife encounters.
Traveler Stories
"The trip was completely seamless. We had a group of 7 of us, people coming in and out of the trip on different days, but everything went so smoothly!"
— Brittany Lombardo · Verified Review
"Max provided highly competent and professional service arranging our trips to Costa Rica (and previously Peru) as well as following up on the numerous details and changes we requested. The trips exceeded my expectations."
— Deb Dickerson · Verified Review
"Max planned a wonderful week to Cusco and Machu Picchu. The whole experience was delightful, and I would use Mindful Travel again for future trips."
— Lynn Stevens, Peru · Verified Review
Frequently Asked Questions
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