4 days / 3 nights | Start and End: Cusco | Max altitude: 3700m | Group size: max 8
Tour Machu Picchu – 4 Days : Cusco & Sacred Valley
Machu Picchu Cusco and Sacred Valley 4-Days
See Machu Picchu without skipping Cusco. This is our complete cultural loop, designed for first time visitors who want the city, the Sacred Valley and the citadel in four days, with a hotel every night and no trekking.
You begin with a full acclimatization tour of Cusco historic center: the Cathedral, Qorikancha Temple of the Sun, and the massive stone walls of Sacsayhuaman at 3700 meters. Then you travel the entire Sacred Valley in one private day, from the market and ruins above Pisac to the three thousand white salt pools of Maras, the circular terraces of Moray, and sunset at Ollantaytambo, the last living Inca town.
You ride the scenic train to Machu Picchu for a private guided visit, then return to Cusco the same evening. No night in Aguas Calientes, no repacking, no early checkout. It is the full city, valley and Machu Picchu experience, run directly from our Cusco office with a maximum of eight travelers.
Highlights
- Cusco in Half a Day
Cathedral, Qorikancha and Sacsayhuaman with your guide, ideal for acclimatization on your first day. - Four Sacred Valley Sites One Day
Pisac, Maras, Moray and Ollantaytambo in one private van day with no shopping stops. - Pisac Market and Ruins
Morning artisan market, then the Inca terraces high above the valley with panoramic views. - Maras Salt Mines
More than three thousand salt pools still farmed by families using ancient Inca water channels. - Moray
Circular Inca terraces that created distinct microclimates for agricultural experiments. - Ollantaytambo Fortress
Climb the Temple of the Sun terraces in Ollantaytambo, the last Inca town still inhabited today. - Train Through the Canyon
Scenic ninety minute train through the Urubamba Canyon from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. - Machu Picchu Private Tour
Private two hour guided tour of Machu Picchu with 2026 circuit ticket and time for photos.-
- Classic viewpoint from lower terraces for the postcard photo.
- Temple of the Sun viewpoint overlooking the curved solstice tower.
- Intihuatana Pyramid, the Inca sundial at the citadel highest point.
- Temple of the Condor, natural rock shaped like condor wings.
- Sacred Rock, carved to mirror Yanantin mountain behind.
- Main Plaza, Royal Residence and Temple Square in the city center.
- Water Mirrors, ceremonial basins fed by original Inca channels.
- Twelve Openings, Eastern storehouses and Pisonay Square in lower sector.
- Agricultural terraces stepping down with valley views.
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Where You Sleep
City first, valley second, city again.
- Night 1 | Cusco Hotel, 3400 m
Private room with bathroom, hot shower and breakfast included. Central location in the historic center, walking distance to Plaza de Armas. Three star standard included, four star upgrade available. - Night 2 | Ollantaytambo Hotel, 2800 m
Stay in the heart of the living Inca town. Private room with bathroom and breakfast. You are steps from the train station for an easy morning departure to Machu Picchu. - Night 3 | Cusco Hotel, 3400 m
Return to Cusco for your final night. Private room, hot shower, breakfast and WiFi. Perfect for dinner in San Blas and last minute shopping.
Our Approach
Engineered for Acclimatization
We design this route in Cusco, not copy and paste. Day one is a full city tour at 3400 meters to help you adjust, not a rushed airport transfer. We visit the Sacred Valley on day two when you are ready for the lower altitude. We include Maras and Moray, sites many four day tours skip to save time. Walking is easy with plenty of stops for photos and history.
Dedicated to You, Hotel to Hotel
Book direct and we handle everything. Airport pickup, all tickets, train seats and Machu Picchu entry for Circuit 2. You carry only a daypack, we move your main luggage between hotels. Our guides are Cusco locals, fluent in English and certified in wilderness first aid. Every tour carries oxygen for altitude support. Groups are capped at eight.
Devoted to Our People
Orange Nation is family owned in Cusco. Our founder started as a porter, so we built this company differently. Everyone receives a living wage above the local average, full health care and all gear provided free. Women have guided with us since 2018 and today lead some of our strongest teams. Each month we fund teachers and reforestation in the Sacred Valley communities you visit.
Things To Know Before You Go
- Altitude is the main challenge, not distance
You sleep at 3400 meters in Cusco and visit Sacsayhuaman at 3700 meters. We start with the city tour for this reason. Arrive in Cusco at least one day early if you can, drink water and go easy on alcohol the first night. - No trekking, just walking
This is not a hike. Expect two to three hours of easy walking per day on cobblestones and gentle Inca steps with many stops. Wear comfortable shoes with good grip. - Weather changes fast
Cusco can be sunny, windy and rainy in the same afternoon. The Sacred Valley is warmer, Machu Picchu is humid cloud forest. Pack layers, sun hat and rain jacket every day. - Trains run on time
Your Machu Picchu day uses timed train and bus tickets. We meet you at your hotel and handle all transfers. Bring your original passport for train and entry checks. - Small group means small group
We cap at eight travelers. You get a dedicated local guide, not a rotating trainee. Hotels include breakfast. Lunches and dinners are flexible and on your own for choice.
At A Glance
The complete cultural loop to Machu Picchu with Cusco city tour and full Sacred Valley in four days. No camping, hotel every night.
- Duration 4 days / 3 nights
- Walking about 8 to 10 km total, max 3700 m at Sacsayhuaman. No steep climbs.
- Accommodation 3 nights comfortable hotels, 1 Cusco, 1 Ollantaytambo, 1 Cusco. Breakfast included daily.
- Sites Cusco Cathedral, Qorikancha, Sacsayhuaman, Pisac market and ruins, Maras salt mines, Moray terraces, Ollantaytambo fortress, Machu Picchu Circuit 2.
- Best for First time visitors who want the city, the valley and Machu Picchu without trekking and with time to acclimatize.
- Permits required None for Sacred Valley. Machu Picchu Circuit 2 entry included.
Who It Is Perfect For
- First Time Visitors
Wanting to see Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu in one smooth trip with proper acclimatization on day one. - Comfort Travelers
Preferring hotels with private bathrooms and hot showers every night instead of camping or basic lodges. - Photography Travelers
Wanting the classic Machu Picchu photo from Circuit 2 plus golden hour light at Ollantaytambo and Pisac terraces. - Time Efficient Explorers
With four days total who want the four main Sacred Valley sites plus Machu Picchu without rushing the train. - Families and Seniors
Needing easy walking, no high passes and a private van with oxygen on board for peace of mind.
Other Expeditions to Consider
- Classic 4 Day Machu Picchu
Same route with overnight in Aguas Calientes for a slower morning at Machu Picchu. Ideal if you want extra time in the citadel. - 5 Day Cusco Sacred Valley and Rainbow Mountain
Adds Vinicunca at 5020 meters after Machu Picchu. Best in dry season April to October.
How to Book the Machu Picchu 4 Day Cusco and Sacred Valley
Booking takes two quick steps and we handle everything from Cusco.
Step 1: Complete your booking form
Click BOOK NOW and fill out details for each traveler exactly as on your passport:
- Full name.
- Passport number.
- Date of birth dd/mm/yyyy.
- Nationality.
Step 2: Confirm with your deposit
A deposit of 200 USD per person locks your dates and your Machu Picchu Circuit 2 tickets. We confirm within 24 hours.
Paying the balance
Pay the remaining balance in cash at our Cusco office in USD or soles to avoid card fees. Online payment accepted with 5.5 percent fee.
Once we receive your deposit, we send your official confirmation, hotel list and meeting times within 24 hours. Your briefing is at 6 pm the night before departure at our Cusco office or by video call if you arrive late.
From
$647
/per person
Trip Details
Overview
Day 1: Cusco → City Tour
Private airport pickup, hotel check in and rest. Afternoon guided walk of the Cathedral, Qorikancha Temple of the Sun and Sacsayhuaman fortress for acclimatization.
4 hr tour / 3700 m max / Hotel in Cusco
Day 2: Cusco → Pisac → Maras → Moray → Ollantaytambo
Full Sacred Valley day with private van. Visit Pisac market and mountaintop ruins, the Maras salt pools, the Moray circular terraces and sunset at Ollantaytambo fortress.
9 hr day / 120 km driving / Hotel in Ollantaytambo
Day 3: Ollantaytambo → Machu Picchu → Cusco
Morning train through the Urubamba Canyon to Aguas Calientes, bus up to Machu Picchu. Private Circuit 2 tour with the classic viewpoint, Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana and Temple of the Condor. Afternoon train back and private transfer to Cusco.
12 hr day / Scenic train both ways / Return to Cusco hotel
Day 4: Cusco → Airport
Breakfast at hotel and private transfer to Cusco airport or bus station at your scheduled time.
Easy morning / Departure transfer
Full Itinerary
Included
- Support
24 hour assistance from our local Cusco team before and during your trip. - Hotels
2 nights in Cusco and 1 night in Ollantaytambo in comfortable hotels with private bathroom, hot shower and breakfast included. - Transfers
Private airport pickup and drop off in Cusco, plus all hotel to station transfers. - Transport
Private van with driver for all Sacred Valley touring as per itinerary. - Guides
Experienced English speaking local guides for every tour. - Entrances
All entrance fees included: Cusco Tourist Ticket for Cathedral Qorikancha and Sacsayhuaman, plus Pisac, Maras, Moray, Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu. - Train
Round trip train tickets Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. Expedition train for standard packages, Vistadome for premium packages. - Bus
Round trip shuttle bus tickets Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. - Tour
Private guided tour of Machu Picchu using Circuit 2 classic route. - Meals
Daily breakfast at hotels as specified in itinerary. - Safety
Oxygen on board for altitude support and complete first aid kit on every tour.
Not Included
- Flights
International and domestic airfare to and from Cusco. - Lunches and Dinners
Meals not listed in itinerary, giving you flexibility in towns. - Taxes
Airport departure taxes if applicable. - Tips
Gratuities for guides, drivers and hotel staff at your discretion. - Extras
Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, travel insurance, visa fees, laundry, drinks and any personal expenses, plus anything not listed as included.
Pricing
Small group departures require a minimum of 2 people.
2 to 8 people | $647 USD per person
This price combines four days exploring Cusco city, the full Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu with hotel stays every night. You visit Cathedral, Qorikancha and Sacsayhuaman on day one, Pisac, Maras, Moray and Ollantaytambo on day two, and finish with a private guided tour of Machu Picchu using Circuit 2 on day three.
This tour operates year round with daily departures except February 28 for Machu Picchu maintenance.
This price includes private van transport, professional guides, all entrance tickets, round trip train and bus tickets, and three nights in comfortable hotels with breakfast.
Included in the Price
- All Entrance Tickets
Cusco Tourist Ticket for Cathedral Qorikancha and Sacsayhuaman, Sacred Valley sites Pisac Maras Moray Ollantaytambo, and Machu Picchu Circuit 2 entry. - Accommodation
Two nights in Cusco and one night in Ollantaytambo in comfortable hotels with private bathroom hot shower and breakfast included. Three star standard included, four star and five star upgrades available. - Train and Bus Tickets
Round trip Expedition train Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. Round trip shuttle bus Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. - Private Transport
Private airport pickup and drop off in Cusco, plus private van for all Sacred Valley touring and return transfer from Ollantaytambo to Cusco. - Professional Guide
English speaking licensed local guide for all tours and Machu Picchu visit. - Meals as per Itinerary
Daily breakfast at hotels as listed. Day 1 through Day 4 breakfast. - Safety and Support
Oxygen on board for altitude assistance, complete first aid kit, and 24 hour support from our Cusco office. Pre tour briefing at 6 pm the night before departure. - Taxes and Fees
All local taxes, service charges and community entrance fees included.
Extras Optional
- Vistadome Train Upgrade
Panoramic windows and onboard service for the return journey. $45 USD per person. - Huayna Picchu Mountain
Add the steep summit hike inside Machu Picchu. $75 USD per person must be booked in advance. - Machu Picchu Mountain
Alternative summit with wide valley views. $75 USD per person must be booked in advance. - Single Supplement
Private room for solo travelers. $90 USD total for 3 nights standard hotels. - Hotel Upgrades
Four star hotels from $120 USD per person total. Five star hotels from $280 USD per person total.
Discounts
- Students 18 to 25 Years
$20 USD off per person. Valid university ID required. - Under 18 Years
$20 USD off per person. Passport copy required at booking. - Groups of 5 or More
$15 USD off per person when booking together.
Added Value
- Small Group Guarantee
Maximum 8 travelers average group size 5 for more personal guide time. - Hotel to Hotel Luggage Service
We move your main bag between hotels while you carry only a daypack. - Oxygen and First Aid Included
Available on every departure at no extra cost. - Free Luggage Storage
Store extra bags in our Cusco office during the tour. - Maras and Moray Included
Many four day tours skip these sites to save time. We include both as standard.
Packing List for 4 Day Cusco Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu
The tour stays in hotels every night and involves easy walking on city streets and Inca stone paths. You will be between 2430 meters at Machu Picchu and 3700 meters at Sacsayhuaman. Days in the Sacred Valley are warm and sunny, nights in Cusco are cool. Temperatures range from about 5 degrees C at night in Cusco to 25 degrees C in the sun. You carry a small 20 to 25 liter daypack each day. Your main suitcase travels by private van between hotels.
Essentials (Carry in Your Daypack)
These stay with you each day on tours and the train.
Documents
- Original passport must match your Machu Picchu ticket name.
- Student ID with photo if booked with student discount.
- Travel insurance details printed or digital recommended.
Water and Hydration
Reusable water bottle 1 to 2 liters total. Hotels provide filtered water each morning.
Layers for Touring
- 2 to 3 t shirts synthetic or merino no cotton.
- 1 long sleeve shirt for sun and cool mornings.
- 1 fleece or light sweater for evenings.
- 1 warm insulated jacket for Cusco nights and early trains.
- 1 pair comfortable walking pants quick dry material. No jeans for long days.
- 1 pair leggings or thermal layer for chilly evenings.
Rain Protection
- Lightweight waterproof jacket with hood essential year round.
- Compact travel umbrella optional for city walking.
Sun and Altitude Protection
- Sun hat or cap with brim.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- High SPF sunscreen and lip balm with SPF.
- Small insect repellent for Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
Footwear
- Comfortable broken in walking shoes or trail shoes with good grip for Inca steps.
- Sandals or casual shoes for evenings in hotels.
- 3 to 4 pairs walking socks wool or synthetic.
Daypack Essentials
- Small camera or phone in protective case.
- Power bank for charging on the train.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Personal medications plus basic blister kit.
- Toilet paper and small zip bag.
- Snacks for train ride such as nuts or cereal bars.
- Cash in Peruvian soles for markets tips and small purchases.
- Copy of passport kept separate from original.
What to Pack in Your Main Bag (Hotel Transfers)
Keep it light as you change hotels twice. No weight limit.
- 3 to 4 t shirts for evenings.
- 1 to 2 extra pairs walking pants.
- 1 smart casual outfit for dinners in Cusco.
- 4 sets underwear.
- Sleepwear suitable for cool nights.
- Warm hat and light gloves for early mornings.
- Toiletry kit toothbrush toothpaste face moisturizer.
- Small first aid items you prefer.
- Adapter for Peru type A and C plugs 220 volts.
- Laundry bag for used clothes.
What NOT to Bring
- Large hiking backpack over 30 liters not needed on this tour.
- Heavy winter boots or ski jackets.
- Cotton jeans for all day walking they stay cold and damp.
- Drones prohibited in Machu Picchu and most archaeological sites.
- Valuables or jewelry you do not need.
- Single use plastic bottles we provide refills.
- Sleeping bag or camping gear hotels provide all bedding.
- Trekking poles not needed for this itinerary.
Orange Nation Provides
- Pre tour briefing in Cusco and free luggage storage if needed.
- All private transport including airport pickup and drop off.
- All train tickets and shuttle bus tickets for Machu Picchu.
- All entrance tickets for sites in itinerary including Boleto Turistico.
- Professional English speaking local guide every day.
- 24 hour support from our Cusco office.
- Oxygen on board for altitude assistance.
- Daily breakfast at hotels.
- Hotel accommodation with private bathroom and hot shower.
Top 10 Ancascocha 5 Day FAQs
What is the main difference between Ancascocha, Salkantay, and the Inca Trail?
Ancascocha is the hidden Inca Trail. You start on the Salkantay side (Humantay Lake, Soraypampa), then leave the crowds and cross 5 remote high passes to the turquoise Ancascocha Lake, before joining the original Inca Trail at KM 82 near Paucarcancha. The Inca Trail is 100% ruins and requires a permit booked 6 months out, entering Machu Picchu on foot via Sun Gate. Salkantay is one big pass then jungle. Ancascocha gives you both: glaciers + lakes + Quechua villages + a taste of the Inca Trail, with no permit needed.
Do I need a permit for Ancascocha?
No. Unlike the Classic Inca Trail (500 permits/day), Ancascocha has no government quota. We only need your Machu Picchu Circuit 2 entry, which we secure for you. That means we can confirm last-minute departures in high season.
How hard is the 5 Day Ancascocha?
Challenging, rated 8/10 by most operators. It’s 49–56 km with 7 steep summits, not one big pass. Day 2 is the hardest: you cross Inca Chiriaska (4,959m/16,269ft), Tocto (4,821m), Calacocha, Cruz Casa and Millpo in one push. You need to be fit enough for 6–9 hours of uphill hiking at altitude, but you carry only a daypack, horses carry your 7kg duffel.
What is the highest point and will I get altitude sickness?
Inca Chiriaska Pass on Day 2 at 4,959m / 16,269ft is the highest. Ancascocha camp itself is at 3,700m where nights can hit -8°C in June-August. Fitness doesn’t prevent soroche. Spend 2–3 full days in Cusco (3,400m) before, hydrate 3L/day, and we carry emergency oxygen and check you daily.
How far do we walk each day?
Orange Nation Classic route:
- Day 1: 8 km Cusco to Soraypampa, Humantay Lake, camp at Pampa Japonesa.
- Day 2: 16 km 5 passes including Inca Chiriaska, camp Millpo.
- Day 3: 15 km Huayanay Pass to Ancascocha Lake (3,700m).
- Day 4: 12 km Descend to Chillca, train to Aguas Calientes.
- Day 5: Machu Picchu tour.
When is the best time to go?
April to October (dry season). May–September = clearest views of Salkantay and Humantay. We avoid February–March for safety due to landslides. Unlike the Inca Trail, spaces don’t sell out, you can book Ancascocha 3–4 months ahead even in July.
What will the weather and camps be like?
Three climates in one trek. High camps (Rayan, Ancascocha) drop to -5°C to -8°C at night in winter. Days on the passes are 15–20°C with strong sun. By Paucarcancha (3,133m) and Aguas Calientes (2,050m) it’s humid and 26°C. Camps: 3 nights in 4-season Eureka tents (2 per tent) with foam mattress and pillow, plus 1 night at Hotel Ferre Machu Picchu 3* in Aguas Calientes.
Is Ancascocha less crowded than the Inca Trail?
Yes, dramatically. The Inca Trail is capped and feels like a highway. Ancascocha sees only a handful of groups per week, mostly Quechua herders, alpacas, and you. You’ll have Humantay Lake early, and Ancascocha Lake almost to yourself.
Do you provide drinking water and what about toilets?
We provide boiled filtered water from lunch Day 1 onward, bring 2L for the first morning. We carry a private toilet tent at each camp with proper sanitation. On trail, guides carry a trowel, leave no trace.
What is the food like? Can you handle dietary needs?
A trek chef cooks everything: hot breakfast, 3-course lunch, afternoon tea, 3-course dinner. Menus are Andean-fusion, quinoa soup, trout, lomo saltado, stuffed peppers, fresh fruit. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free are standard, just tell us at booking.
Orange Nation Practical FAQs
Where is your office in Cusco?
Historic center, 5 mins from Plaza de Armas. We send address, WhatsApp pin, and briefing time (6pm night before) with your confirmation.
Can I leave my main luggage in Cusco?
Yes. Free secure storage at our office while you’re on trail. Take only your 7kg duffel, we provide the bag and liner.
How difficult is this specific 5-day route?
Same as above: Challenging. Train 4–6 weeks before with hills and stairs. The emergency horse is included if you need a break.
How much should I acclimatize?
Minimum 2 full days in Cusco or Sacred Valley. 3 days is ideal for the 4,959m pass.
What time do we get back to Cusco on Day 5?
Expedition train leaves Aguas Calientes 2:55pm or 3:20pm, arrives Ollantaytambo ∼5:30pm, private van to Cusco hotel by 7:00pm.
How much time do we actually get inside Machu Picchu?
2-hour guided Circuit 2 tour at sunrise, plus 30–45 mins free time. Bus up and down is included.
Do you provide horses for my gear?
Yes. Mules carry all group equipment plus 7kg of your personal gear. Emergency horse rides free if you’re ill.
Can I rent a sleeping bag and poles?
Yes. Sleeping bag $20, Therm-a-Rest air mattress $20, poles $15 for the whole trek.
How much should I tip the crew?
Tipping is customary. Average pool: guides $10–15 pp/day, chef 120 soles total, horsemen 60 soles each from the group, given on Day 4 in Aguas Calientes. Not mandatory.
