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Cusco
Machu Picchu by Vistadome: Cusco, Sacred Valley & The Citadel (3 Days)
Description: del Imperial Peru Express: Lima, Cusco and Lake Titicaca 8 Days
Experience the best of the Andes and the Peruvian coast with the streamlined Imperial Peru Tour of 8 Days. Starting in Lima, you will quickly discover the blend of colonial history and modern coastal life before taking a flight to Cusco, the heart of the ancient Inca Empire. Time is spent exploring the city’s historic center and its massive surrounding fortresses, including the magnificent Sacsayhuamán and ceremonial sites like Qenqo. This comprehensive itinerary is curated for travelers seeking to maximize their cultural and historical exposure to the Inca legacy in a single week.
The journey moves into the lush Sacred Valley of the Incas, where you explore the terraced ruins and vibrant market of Pisac, followed by the strategic fortress of Ollantaytambo. The pinnacle of the tour arrives with a visit to Machu Picchu, the awe-inspiring "Lost City of the Incas." A morning shuttle takes you to the citadel for a guided exploration of its temples, terraces, and urban sectors, offering a profound connection to the site’s history and spiritual significance. The evening sees your return to Cusco, completing the core of the Inca experience.
The final segment explores the unique landscapes of the Peruvian Altiplano. Travel the scenic Route of the Sun (Ruta del Sol) to Puno, stopping at architectural wonders like the "Sistine Chapel of the Andes" (Andahuaylillas) and the Temple of Wiracocha (Raqchi). Once at Lake Titicaca, the world's highest navigable lake, you embark on a boat trip to visit the fascinating floating reed islands of the Uros people and the communal island of Taquile. This 8-day tour offers the perfect blend of adventure, heritage, and living Andean traditions before your flight returns you from Juliaca to Lima for your international departure.
Itinerary Imperial Peru Express: Lima, Cusco and Lake Titicaca 8 Days
Day 1 – Welcome to Lima, the City of Kings
Upon arrival at Lima’s airport, a member of our team will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. If you arrive early, you’ll have time to relax or enjoy a stroll along the Pacific coast. In the evening, try Lima’s world-famous cuisine—don’t miss the fresh ceviche!
Included:
Airport assistance
Transport
Hotel accommodation.
Day 2 – Lima City Tour & Flight to Cusco
Start your day exploring Lima’s top attractions, including the Love Park in Miraflores with panoramic ocean views. Get a glimpse of Peru’s pre-Columbian past with a panoramic view of Huaca Pucllana and Huaca Huallamarca. Continue through the Plaza de Armas, the Government Palace, and the Lima Cathedral, finishing with a visit to the historic Santo Domingo Convent.
In the afternoon, transfer to the airport for your flight to Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire.
Included:
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Transport
Flight
Hotel
Breakfast.
Day 3 – Inca Temples of Cusco
Discover Sacsayhuamán, a masterpiece of Inca engineering with colossal stone walls. Visit the ceremonial site of Qenqo, the military lookout of Puca Pucará, and the ritual site Tambomachay, famous for its water channels. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore Cusco’s vibrant plazas, artisan markets, and Andean cuisine.
Included:
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Transportation
Hotel
Breakfast.
Day 4 – Sacred Valley of the Incas & Train to Aguas Calientes
Head into the Sacred Valley, beginning at Pisac, known for its agricultural terraces and vast Inca cemetery. After exploring the artisan market, continue to Ollantaytambo, a living Inca town and fortress. In the afternoon, board the scenic train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.
Included:
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Transportation
Train
Hotel
Breakfast & lunch.
Day 5 – Machu Picchu Guided Tour & Return to Cusco
Take the morning shuttle to Machu Picchu, the awe-inspiring “Lost City of the Incas.” Your expert guide will walk you through the citadel’s history, architecture, and spiritual significance. Explore its temples, terraces, observatories, and ceremonial sites.
After your visit, return to Cusco via train and private transport.
Optional add-on: Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain hike (limited availability, advance booking required)
Included:
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Transportation
Shuttle bus
Train
Hotel
Breakfast & lunch.
Day 6 – Route of the Sun: Cusco to Lake Titicaca
Embark on a scenic tourist bus to Puno, stopping at major historical sites along the way. Visit the Andahuaylillas Church (known as the "Sistine Chapel of the Andes"), the Temple of Wiracocha in Raqchi, La Raya Pass, and the Pukara Museum, showcasing the pre-Inca Pukara culture.
Included:
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Tourist bus
Hotel
Breakfast & lunch.
Day 7 – Lake Titicaca: Uros & Taquile Islands
Set off by boat across Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. Visit the Uros Floating Islands, made entirely of totora reeds, and meet the families who live there. Then, travel to Taquile Island, where centuries-old traditions and textile artistry still thrive. Enjoy a typical Andean lunch with lake views before returning to Puno.
Included:
Professional guide
Boat ride
Entrance fees
Transportation
Hotel
Breakfast, lunch and diner
Day 8 – Puno → Lima → International Departure
Transfer to Juliaca Airport for your flight back to Lima and your international connection.
Included:
Flight
Airport assistance
Transport
Breakfast.
Final Thoughts
The Imperial Peru Tour offers the perfect blend of culture, adventure, and heritage in just eight days. From coastal Lima to the Inca heartlands and the sacred waters of Titicaca, every day offers a new highlight. Whether you're drawn by ancient ruins, living traditions, or breathtaking landscapes, this experience is curated for discovery and wonder.
Book today to begin your unforgettable journey through Peru’s imperial legacy!
Includes Imperial Peru Express: Lima, Cusco and Lake Titicaca 8 Days
Transport:
Airport transfers in Lima and Cusco
Flights: Lima–Cusco & Juliaca–Lima
Train: Ollantaytambo ↔ Aguas Calientes
Tourist bus: Cusco → Puno
All private/shared ground transport per itinerary
Accommodation:
Hotels in Lima, Cusco, Aguas Calientes, and Puno
Meals:
Daily breakfast
Select lunches and one dinner as noted
Guided Visits & Activities:
Lima city tour (Love Park, Huacas, Cathedral, Santo Domingo)
Cusco archaeological sites: Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puca Pucará, Tambomachay
Sacred Valley tour: Pisac ruins, market & Ollantaytambo
Full Machu Picchu guided tour
Route of the Sun scenic transfer with stops
Full-day Lake Titicaca boat tour (Uros + Taquile)
Additional Services:
Professional bilingual guides
Entry tickets to all scheduled attractions
Assistance at all airports
Private/shared boat on Lake Titicaca
Not Included Imperial Peru Express: Lima, Cusco and Lake Titicaca 8 Days
International flights to and from Peru
Travel insurance (highly recommended)
Optional hikes at Machu Picchu (Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain) – subject to availability and advance booking
Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
Personal expenses (laundry, drinks, snacks, phone calls, etc.)
Tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff
Any services not clearly listed in the “What’s Included” section
Recommendations Imperial Peru Express: Lima, Cusco and Lake Titicaca 8 Days
Travel Documents & Essentials:
Bring valid passport (check expiration)
Print copies of ID and travel insurance
Pack layered clothing for both warm and cold climates
Don’t forget sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, and hiking shoes
Altitude Awareness:
Cusco (11,150 ft) & Lake Titicaca (12,500 ft) require acclimatization
Stay hydrated, rest upon arrival, avoid alcohol on the first day
Food & Safety:
Eat at well-reviewed restaurants
Drink only bottled water
Carry meds for altitude, digestion, and allergies
Cultural Etiquette:
Be respectful when taking photos of locals
Support local artisans at markets
Learn a few Spanish phrases—locals appreciate it!
Money & Security:
Carry cash in Peruvian soles for tips and small shops
Use hotel safes for valuables
Avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas
Photo Gallery Imperial Peru Express: Lima, Cusco and Lake Titicaca 8 Days
Frequently Asked Questions Imperial Peru Express: Lima, Cusco and Lake Titicaca 8 Days
What defines the "Imperial" experience of this tour?
This tour focuses on the grandest monuments of the Inca and Colonial eras. From the "Imperial City" of Cusco to the massive megalithic walls of Sacsayhuaman, the focus is on the scale and power of ancient Peru. The pace is brisk but professional, ensuring you see the most significant landmarks without the stress of planning logistics.
How does the journey begin in Lima?
Your first day is an introduction to the "City of Kings." You will explore the colonial center (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and the modern districts like Miraflores. This provides the necessary historical context—seeing where the Spanish established their seat of power—before you head into the mountains to see where the Incas held theirs.
What is the strategy for Cusco’s altitude (Day 2)?
After flying from Lima to Cusco, the afternoon is dedicated to a relaxed City Tour. You’ll visit the Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun) and the Cathedral. By keeping the activity levels moderate on your first day at 3,400m (11,150 ft), you allow your body to adjust comfortably for the more active days ahead.
What are the highlights of the Sacred Valley (Day 3)?
You will descend into the Sacred Valley to visit the Pisac Market and the towering fortress of Ollantaytambo. This day is a highlight for photography and history, as you see how the Incas perfectly integrated their architecture into the mountain slopes. You’ll then take the train to Aguas Calientes to be in position for Machu Picchu.
How is the Machu Picchu visit organized (Day 4)?
You’ll take a short bus ride from Aguas Calientes to the citadel gates. A private or small-group guide will lead you through the main circuits, explaining the agricultural, urban, and religious sectors. Because you stayed in the village overnight, you beat the large crowds arriving from Cusco, giving you a more peaceful experience of the ruins.
What is the "Route of the Sun" to Puno (Day 6)?
This is one of the most beautiful bus rides in South America. Over 10 hours, you cross the high Andean plateau. You’ll stop at the "Sistine Chapel of the Americas" in Andahuaylillas, the archaeological site of Raqchi, and the high pass of La Raya (4,335m). It’s an "Express" way to turn a travel day into a full-day tour.
What happens on Lake Titicaca (Day 7)?
You’ll head out on a boat to the Uros Floating Islands, where you’ll learn how the locals build their world out of reeds. The tour continues to Taquile Island, where the "knitting men" maintain a lifestyle that hasn't changed in centuries. The contrast between the deep blue water and the snow-capped Andes in the distance is unforgettable.
Who is the ideal traveler for this "Express" itinerary?
This tour is perfect for first-time visitors to Peru who have exactly one week. It’s ideal for those who want a mix of comfort, history, and iconic photography. If you want a "worry-free" trip where all the flights, trains, and entrance tickets are perfectly synchronized, this is your best choice.
Comments:
"Jimmy est un guide passionné qui aime transmettre et partager sa culture et ses connaissances ! On a adoré le temps passé avec lui ! On peut lui poser plein de question et il nous répond toujours avec le sourire ! Une vraie encyclopédie (qui s’adapte à son public) ! ???????? Visiter la Vallée Sacrée avec lui c’est comprendre énormément de choses sur l’histoire de cette région ! C’est passionnant ! On recommande ses tours sans hésitation ! Merci beaucoup pour tout !!! Ne changez rien !!!!"
"Gracias a Jimmy y su equipo por esta maravillosa semana visitando Cusco, el Valle Sagrado de los Incas, y por conocer a una familia peruana tan encantadora. Todo estuvo increíblemente bien organizado. Hicimos mucho más de lo que lo hubiéramos organizado nosotros mismos. ¡Muchas gracias de nuevo! Los recomiendo ampliamente."
""
"Mis amigos y yo tuvimos una excelente experiencia con la agencia. El trato fue muy amable y personalizado, siempre atentos a cada detalle de nuestro viaje. Sin duda, los recomendamos."
"An excellent experience! Terres des Incas is truly an outstanding agency. Their itineraries are perfectly designed, the guides are highly knowledgeable and attentive, and the entire team is incredibly professional. The office staff was always available, listening to us, and quickly solving any small issues along the way. We felt supported throughout the entire trip. I am really happy with Terres des Incas and I recommend this agency 100% for anyone looking for a well-organized, authentic, and unforgettable journey in Peru."
"Voyage magnifique avec Jimmy un guide formidable. Interessant, attentif. À recommander"
"Buena experiencia, la atención es muy buena, como turista nacional me encantó el compromiso que tiene la empresa para con sus pasajeros."
"Excelente atención desde el primer momento. El equipo de TERRESDESINCAS se encargó de cada detalle y mi viaje fue perfecto. Muy recomendados por su profesionalismo, amabilidad y capacidad de resolver cualquier duda. ¡Sin duda volveré a viajar con ustedes!"
"J'ai fait appel à cette agence pour la vallée sacrée et palcoyo et je recommande à 100%. Tout s'est très bien passé, ils sont très réactifs et les guides très gentils et à l'écoute"
"Un lugar muy bonito para visitar"
"Una excelente experiencia! Terres des Incas es realmente una agencia excepcional. Sus itinerarios están perfectamente diseñados, los guías son altamente conocedores y atentos, y todo el equipo es increíblemente profesional. El personal de la oficina siempre estaba disponible, escuchándonos y resolviendo rápidamente cualquier pequeño problema en el camino. Nos sentimos apoyados durante todo el viaje. Estoy muy contento con Terres des Incas y recomiendo esta agencia 100% para cualquiera que busque un viaje bien organizado, auténtico e inolvidable en Perú."
""¡Una experiencia inmejorable! Viajé desde Francia y honestamente puedo decir que Terres des Incas es la mejor agencia de viajes del Perú. Sus itinerarios están cuidadosamente diseñados, combinando cultura, aventura y momentos únicos que nunca olvidaremos. Los guías son extraordinarios: atentos, apasionados, y siempre deseosos de compartir sus conocimientos sobre historia y vida andina. El equipo de oficina era impecable, siempre disponible, servicial y resolver rápidamente cualquier detalle para asegurarse de que todo fuera perfecto. Nos sentimos acompañados y cuidados en cada paso, lo que hizo que nuestro viaje fuera aún más especial. Estoy muy contento con Terres des Incas y recomiendo esta agencia al 1000% a cualquiera que quiera descubrir el Perú de una manera auténtica, bien organizada y excepcionalmente personal "."
"Jimmy est un guide passionné qui aime transmettre et partager sa culture et ses connaissances ! On a adoré le temps passé avec lui ! On peut lui poser plein de question et il nous répond toujours avec le sourire ! Une vraie encyclopédie (qui s’adapte à son public) ! ???????? Visiter la Vallée Sacrée avec lui c’est comprendre énormément de choses sur l’histoire de cette région ! C’est passionnant ! On recommande ses tours sans hésitation ! Merci beaucoup pour tout !!! Ne changez rien !!!!"
"Gracias a Jimmy y su equipo por esta maravillosa semana visitando Cusco, el Valle Sagrado de los Incas, y por conocer a una familia peruana tan encantadora. Todo estuvo increíblemente bien organizado. Hicimos mucho más de lo que lo hubiéramos organizado nosotros mismos. ¡Muchas gracias de nuevo! Los recomiendo ampliamente."
""
"Mis amigos y yo tuvimos una excelente experiencia con la agencia. El trato fue muy amable y personalizado, siempre atentos a cada detalle de nuestro viaje. Sin duda, los recomendamos."
"An excellent experience! Terres des Incas is truly an outstanding agency. Their itineraries are perfectly designed, the guides are highly knowledgeable and attentive, and the entire team is incredibly professional. The office staff was always available, listening to us, and quickly solving any small issues along the way. We felt supported throughout the entire trip. I am really happy with Terres des Incas and I recommend this agency 100% for anyone looking for a well-organized, authentic, and unforgettable journey in Peru."
"Voyage magnifique avec Jimmy un guide formidable. Interessant, attentif. À recommander"
"Buena experiencia, la atención es muy buena, como turista nacional me encantó el compromiso que tiene la empresa para con sus pasajeros."
"Excelente atención desde el primer momento. El equipo de TERRESDESINCAS se encargó de cada detalle y mi viaje fue perfecto. Muy recomendados por su profesionalismo, amabilidad y capacidad de resolver cualquier duda. ¡Sin duda volveré a viajar con ustedes!"
"J'ai fait appel à cette agence pour la vallée sacrée et palcoyo et je recommande à 100%. Tout s'est très bien passé, ils sont très réactifs et les guides très gentils et à l'écoute"
"Un lugar muy bonito para visitar"
"Una excelente experiencia! Terres des Incas es realmente una agencia excepcional. Sus itinerarios están perfectamente diseñados, los guías son altamente conocedores y atentos, y todo el equipo es increíblemente profesional. El personal de la oficina siempre estaba disponible, escuchándonos y resolviendo rápidamente cualquier pequeño problema en el camino. Nos sentimos apoyados durante todo el viaje. Estoy muy contento con Terres des Incas y recomiendo esta agencia 100% para cualquiera que busque un viaje bien organizado, auténtico e inolvidable en Perú."
""¡Una experiencia inmejorable! Viajé desde Francia y honestamente puedo decir que Terres des Incas es la mejor agencia de viajes del Perú. Sus itinerarios están cuidadosamente diseñados, combinando cultura, aventura y momentos únicos que nunca olvidaremos. Los guías son extraordinarios: atentos, apasionados, y siempre deseosos de compartir sus conocimientos sobre historia y vida andina. El equipo de oficina era impecable, siempre disponible, servicial y resolver rápidamente cualquier detalle para asegurarse de que todo fuera perfecto. Nos sentimos acompañados y cuidados en cada paso, lo que hizo que nuestro viaje fuera aún más especial. Estoy muy contento con Terres des Incas y recomiendo esta agencia al 1000% a cualquiera que quiera descubrir el Perú de una manera auténtica, bien organizada y excepcionalmente personal "."
For responsible and sustainable tourism
The payment for each experience is distributed responsibly and transparently with the aim of generating a real and positive impact in Peru
