8-Day Trek Through Peru: Explore Cusco & Machu Picchu
A premium, balanced trek that blends culture, nature and physical challenge. Hike iconic Inca trail sections, meet Andean communities, and witness Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate. Professional bilingual guides, private transport, train & shuttle logistics, and 24/7 trip monitoring.
- Duration: 8 days / 7 nights
- Difficulty: High (up to 8 hrs walking/day)
- Group size: Max 12
- Language: English / Spanish guides
Trip Overview
This 8-day program is designed for fit travelers who want a balanced experience of culture, nature and physical challenge. Expect full trekking days (4–8 hrs), steep ascents/descents, varied terrain and breathtaking high-Andean scenery. The route includes private transport, train and shuttle logistics to Machu Picchu, entrance tickets, and professional guiding. Hotel reservations and all meals are arranged only after prior coordination with passengers — you may book them independently or authorize CuscoNova Tours to arrange them for you.
Best Time to Go
April–October (dry season). Shoulder months (Apr–May, Sep–Oct) combine stable weather and fewer crowds.
Fitness & Suitability
This is a high-activity trek. Participants must be in excellent physical condition and comfortable walking up to 8 hours a day on uneven mountain trails.
Price & Booking
Starting from $2199 land-only (varies by season & hotel category). Deposit & payment terms provided on request.
Quick Facts
- Duration: 8 days / 7 nights
- Difficulty: High
- Max walking: up to 8 hours/day
- Group size: up to 12
Packing Snapshot
- Waterproof jacket & layers
- Trekking boots & socks
- Sun protection & hat
- Passport + photocopy
- Small daypack & water bottle
CuscoNova Tours
- CuscoNova Tours
- Email: cusconovatours@gmail.com
- WhatsApp: +51 978742929
Daily Itinerary (detailed)
Day 1 — Arrival in Lima (Sea Level)
What we do: International flights to Lima (not included). Private transfer to Miraflores hotel. Short orientation; free time to walk the Malecón or rest before the active days ahead.
- Climate: Mild coastal weather. 15–24°C (59–75°F).
- Altitude: Sea level — no acclimatization required.
- Recommended: light jacket, comfortable shoes, sunscreen.
- Documents: passport with 6+ months validity; keep immigration slip (TAM) for domestic flights.
Day 2 — Lima city tour, flight to Cusco and transfer to Sacred Valley
What we do: Morning guided tour of Lima’s historic center (Plaza Mayor, Cathedral, San Francisco). Culinary demo and lunch. Afternoon flight to Cusco (passengers may book flights; we can assist). Transfer to Sacred Valley; evening group dinner.
- Climate: Lima mild → Sacred Valley cooler at night.
- Altitude: Sacred Valley ~2,800–2,900 m (9,200–9,500 ft).
- Recommended: layers for temperature change; passport for permit processing if required.
Day 3 — Pisac ruins & market, Moray and Maras salt pans
What we do: Explore Pisac archaeological terraces and artisan market. After lunch, visit Moray’s concentric terraces and the Maras salt pans. Evening family-hosted dinner to experience a home-cooked Andean meal and cultural exchange.
- Activity: 4–6 hours walking on uneven terrain (challenging).
- Altitude: up to 3,500 m (11,500 ft).
- Recommended: sun protection, sturdy shoes, water, snacks.
Día 4 : Tramo Camino Inca — Km 104 → Wiñay Wayna → Puerta del Sol (Intipunku) → Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu)
What we do: Transfer to Ollantaytambo station and board the scenic train to Km 104. Trek the classic Inca Trail section through cloud forest past Wiñay Wayna, ascend to Intipunku (Sun Gate) for your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu, then descend to Aguas Calientes for overnight.
- Distance / activity: 12–14 km; up to 8 hours walking.
- Altitude gain: cumulative ascent +1,300 m.
- Difficulty: Very challenging — fit, experienced hikers only.
- Packing rule: overnight bag for Aguas Calientes (trains limit small carry bag 5–8 kg; larger luggage stored at hotel).
- Documents: passport mandatory for train and site verifications.
Day 5 — Machu Picchu guided visit; optional Huayna Picchu / Machu Picchu Mountain; return to Cusco
What we do: Early shuttle to the citadel; guided 2.5–3 hour tour covering main sectors (Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana). Optional Huayna Picchu (steep, exposed climb) or Machu Picchu Mountain for panoramic views (permits required). Afternoon train back to Cusco (or Sacred Valley depending on booking).
- Activity: 6 hours site walking depending on pace and optional hikes.
- Altitude: Machu Picchu 2,430 m (7,972 ft).
- Documents: passport must match ticket name; no large backpacks or drones.
Day 6 — Sacsayhuamán, Qorikancha, San Blas & optional Andean ceremony
What we do: Optional Andean ceremony, visit Sacsayhuamán fortress and Qorikancha, then explore San Blas artisan quarter. Evening farewell dinner.
- Activity: 4–5 hours walking; moderate.
- Altitude: Cusco ~3,399 m (11,152 ft).
- Recommended: warm layers, comfortable shoes, camera.
Day 7 — Flight to Lima; free afternoon
What we do: Transfer to Cusco airport for flight to Lima (domestic flight not included unless arranged). Free afternoon in Lima for museums, shopping or a gastronomic experience. Farewell dinner with the group.
- Note: reconfirm all flight times and baggage allowances.
Day 8 — Departure
Private transfer to Lima international airport according to your flight schedule. If your international flight departs in the early hours, transfers may be scheduled the prior evening — you will be advised at booking. Documents: Keep passport & boarding pass handy.
- Documents: passport and boarding pass ready.
- Climate: Mild coastal weather. 15–24°C (59–75°F).
- Altitude: Sea level — no acclimatization required.
- Recommended: light jacket, comfortable shoes, sunscreen.
- Documents: passport with 6+ months validity; keep immigration slip (TAM) for domestic flights.
What’s Included & What’s Not
Included
- Private transport for all transfers and excursions listed.
- Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish) during the full program.
- Entrance fees to all archaeological sites listed (Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Maras, Moray, Machu Picchu, Sacsayhuamán, Qorikancha).
- Round-trip standard train tickets (Ollantaytambo / Km 104 ↔ Aguas Calientes).
- Round-trip shuttle bus between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
- Accommodation arranged only after prior coordination with passengers (hotel category selected at booking).
- Meals as noted in the itinerary — breakfast daily; lunches & dinners available by prior coordination with the passengers (we can arrange if requested).
- 24/7 trip monitoring and local emergency support via WhatsApp.
Not Included
- International flights to / from Peru.
- Domestic flights (Lima ↔ Cusco) unless requested and confirmed at booking.
- Personal expenses, tips, alcoholic beverages, optional excursions not listed.
- Travel insurance (highly recommended).
- Huayna Picchu / Machu Picchu Mountain permits (optional; additional cost and limited availability).
Optional Upgrades & Add-Ons
- Train upgrades: Vistadome / Expedition / IncaRail 360°.
- Private transfers & VIP assistance.
- Huayna Picchu / Machu Picchu Mountain permits (book early).
- Pre- or post-tour extensions: Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca or Amazon lodges.
- Private photographer at Machu Picchu (permit & early access required).
Health, Altitude & Practical Tips
- Altitude profile: Lima 0 m → Sacred Valley 2,800–2,900 m → Moray/Maras up to 3,500 m → Cusco 3,399 m → Machu Picchu 2,430 m.
- Acclimatization: We arrange the schedule to reduce altitude shock but participants must hydrate, rest and avoid heavy exertion their first 24 hours in the highlands.
- Medication: Consult your physician about acetazolamide (Diamox) if you are prone to altitude sickness.
- Fitness: This itinerary demands high fitness—training and long walks prior to travel recommended.
- Packing list: layered clothing, waterproof jacket, trekking boots, hat, sunglasses, daypack, water, basic first aid kit.
- Train luggage rule: Trains to Aguas Calientes typically allow one small bag (5–8 kg); larger luggage may be stored at your Cusco hotel.
Is this trip right for me?
Only if you are physically fit and used to long daily walking. Expect challenging days with steep climbs and uneven terrain.
Practical Notes
- Documents: Passport required at all times. Keep copies on phone/email.
- Currency: Peruvian Sol (PEN). USD accepted in many places, but small markets require soles.
- Health: No vaccines required, but Yellow Fever vaccine recommended if visiting the Amazon.
- Insurance: Strongly advised for medical & travel coverage.
What’s Included & What’s Not
Is this trip right for me?
Only if you are physically fit and used to long daily walking. Expect challenging days with steep climbs and uneven terrain.
How early should I book Machu Picchu permits?
Book at least 60–90 days ahead for peak season; Huayna Picchu sells out faster.
Can CuscoNova book my domestic flights and hotels?
Yes. Hotel reservations and full meal plans are confirmed only after prior coordination with passengers — you can book them yourself or ask us to arrange them.
About CuscoNova Tours
CuscoNova Tours is a travel agency based in Cusco, specializing in offering authentic and memorable experiences for travelers from all over the world. Our passion is to showcase the greatness of the Inca culture, the breathtaking Andean landscapes, and Peruvian hospitality through carefully planned tours led by expert local guides. Our professional team has extensive experience in tourism and is committed to providing personalized attention, safe logistics, and high-quality service. We focus on creating itineraries that connect travelers with the history, nature, and living traditions of Peru. At CuscoNova Tours, we are fully committed to formality, excellence, and responsibility in every service we provide, meeting the highest standards of professional tourism in Peru. Among our main tours are the 2-Day Inca Trail (Km 104), the classic Machu Picchu Tour, day trips such as Rainbow Mountain, the magical Humantay Lagoon, the Sacred Valley, Maras Moray, and many other cultural and nature experiences throughout the Cusco region.
✅ Local experience with a professional approach
Our guides and operators know each route and destination because they are part of this land. We offer you a close, safe, and culturally enriching service.
✅ Personalized attention from the first contact
We design your trip with you, answer your questions, and assist you at all times so that you can enjoy a hassle-free experience.
✅ Commitment to quality and formal service
We work under principles of responsibility, ethics, and excellence, providing organized tourism prepared to meet all the demands of the international market.
Why CuscoNova Tours Is the Smart Choice for Your Peruvian Adventure
UNIQUE VALUE PROPOSITION 1
CuscoNova Tours combines professional efficiency with personalized service and deep local knowledge, offering authentic, exclusive, and culturally enriching experiences throughout the Cusco region and beyond.
UNIQUE VALUE PROPOSITION 2
Carefully Designed and Hassle-Free Itineraries Our tours are thoughtfully crafted to balance adventure, comfort, and discovery. From the 2-day Inca Trail to day trips around Cusco, we take care of all logistics so you can focus on enjoying your journey.
UNIQUE VALUE PROPOSITION 3
Commitment to Responsible and Quality Tourism We operate with integrity and care. Our team is trained, our service is professional, and our goal is to provide meaningful travel while supporting local communities and preserving our heritage.
What Our Travelers Say About CuscoNova Tours
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