3 Day Machu Picchu Tour from Lima
Our 3 Day Machu Picchu Tour from Lima is a coordinated air-and-rail journey connecting Lima, Cusco, and Machu Picchu in one compact itinerary. The tour begins with pickup from your hotel in Lima and concludes with your return transfer in the capital on Day 3.
This experience is recommended for first-time visitors, couples, families with older children, and travelers with limited time who want to experience Cusco’s Inca heritage and visit Machu Picchu with a professional guide. After flying to Cusco, you will tour the historic city and its nearby archaeological sites. The following day, you will travel through the Sacred Valley by road and train for a guided visit to Machu Picchu.
Our Peru-based team coordinates the domestic flights, local transfers, train and shuttle bus tickets, Machu Picchu admission, and guiding services within a single itinerary. This connected operation means you do not need to organize several suppliers independently. Hotel accommodation and most meals are not included, allowing you to select the options that best suit your budget and travel style.
Tour Highlights
- Round-trip flights between Lima and Cusco
- Guided tour of Cusco and its nearby Inca sites
- Visits to Qorikancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Tambomachay, and Puca Pucara
- Scenic Expedition train journey through the Sacred Valley
- Official Machu Picchu entrance ticket and guided circuit
- Round-trip shuttle bus between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu
- Coordinated transfers and local assistance throughout the journey
Itinerary
Three Day Itinerary
Click any day to expand/collapse
Day 1
Lima – Cusco and City Tour
We will pick you up from your hotel in Lima at approximately 4:00 a.m. and take you to the airport for your flight to Cusco. Upon arrival, our local representative will meet you and provide transportation to your hotel. You will have time to check in, rest, and adjust to the elevation before the afternoon activities begin.
Your guided city tour starts at Cusco Cathedral, which houses an important collection of colonial artwork from the Cusco School. One of its best-known paintings is a local interpretation of the Last Supper featuring traditional Andean food.
The next visit is Qorikancha, once one of the most important religious centers of the Inca Empire. The Convent of Santo Domingo was later constructed over and around its original stone walls, creating a clear contrast between Inca and colonial architecture.
We then travel outside the historic center to Sacsayhuaman, known for its enormous stone walls and panoramic views of Cusco. The route continues to Qenqo, a ceremonial complex with carved rock formations and narrow passages.
The final stops are Tambomachay, where carefully designed channels continue to carry water through the site, and Puca Pucara, an Inca complex positioned along an ancient route into the city. After the visit, we will return you to your hotel in Cusco.
- Flight from Lima to Cusco
- Cusco Cathedral and Qorikancha
- Sacsayhuaman and Qenqo
- Tambomachay and Puca Pucara
Day 2
Cusco - Machu Picchu - Cusco
After an early breakfast, we will collect you from your hotel and drive through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo train station. You will then board the tourist train to Aguas Calientes, following the Urubamba River through mountain valleys and cloud forest scenery.
The train journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, our team will assist you with the shuttle bus that travels up the mountain to the archaeological sanctuary.
Your professional guide will lead the visit according to the official circuit assigned to your entrance ticket. Along the route, you will learn about the construction, history, and cultural importance of the citadel while seeing the terraces, temples, residences, and viewpoints included in your confirmed circuit.
Access to individual structures varies between circuits, so specific locations such as the Intihuatana, Temple of the Condor, or Temple of the Three Windows cannot be guaranteed on every entrance ticket.
Travelers who have reserved Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain will be directed to the corresponding trail entrance. These optional hikes require separate permits and must be arranged in advance.
After the guided visit, we will take the bus back to Aguas Calientes. You will have time to purchase lunch before boarding the afternoon train to Ollantaytambo. Our driver will meet you at the station and take you back to your hotel in Cusco.
- Journey through the Sacred Valley
- Scenic train ride from Ollantaytambo
- Guided visit to Machu Picchu
- Return train and transfer to Cusco
Day 3
Cusco - Lima
At the scheduled time, we will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to Cusco airport. You will board your return flight to Lima, where our representative will be waiting to take you to your confirmed hotel.
The exact pickup and arrival times will depend on the flight schedule issued for your travel date. Your journey concludes after the hotel transfer in Lima.
If you want to learn more about the Inca history of Cusco or prefer a customised tour option, contact us for more information about our specialized Sacred Valley Tours.
- Hotel pickup in Cusco
- Transfer to Cusco airport
- Return flight to Lima
- Transfer to your Lima hotel
Inclusions
What Is Included
- Scheduled transfers between your Lima hotel and the airport on Days 1 and 3
- Airport and hotel transfers in Cusco
- Round-trip flights between Lima and Cusco in Light fare
- One carry-on bag weighing up to 10 kg per traveler
- Ground transportation between Cusco and Ollantaytambo train station
- Round-trip Expedition train tickets between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes
- Round-trip shuttle bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu
- Official entrance ticket for the assigned Machu Picchu circuit
- Professional English-speaking guide for the scheduled guided visits
- Guided Cusco city and archaeological tour
- Breakfast on Day 2
- Local assistance and travel coordination throughout the journey
What Is Not Included
- Hotel accommodation in Lima and Cusco
- Breakfast on Day 1, lunches, dinners, snacks, and beverages
- Entrance tickets for Cusco Cathedral and Qorikancha
- Cusco Tourist Ticket required for Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Tambomachay, and Puca Pucara
- Checked baggage or luggage exceeding the included 10 kg allowance
- Entrance tickets for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain
- Vistadome and other premium train upgrades
- Travel or medical insurance
- Tips for guides and drivers
- Souvenirs and other personal expenses
Optional mountain tickets and train upgrades are subject to availability and must be requested before booking. Hotel accommodation can also be arranged separately upon request.
Packing List
What to Pack
Your airfare includes one carry-on bag weighing up to 10 kg, so pack only the essentials needed for three days.
- Original passport: Bring the same document used to reserve your flights and entrance ticket.
- Small daypack: Use a lightweight backpack for your documents, water, and personal items.
- Comfortable walking shoes: Choose footwear with reliable grip for stone paths and stairs.
- Light clothing layers: Pack breathable clothes, a warm sweater, and a light jacket for changing temperatures.
- Rain protection: Carry a waterproof jacket or compact rain poncho.
- Sun protection: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or cap.
- Insect repellent: Recommended for Aguas Calientes and the cloud forest around the sanctuary.
- Reusable water bottle: Keep it inside your daypack and refill it before entering the site.
- Personal medication: Carry prescriptions and any medication you may need during the journey.
- Phone or camera: Bring a charger or compact power bank for photographs and digital documents.
- Peruvian soles: Small amounts of cash are useful for meals, restrooms, snacks, and personal purchases.
FAQs
FAQs about the 3 day Machu Picchu tour from Lima
Look, we know you’re totally pumped for this it’s a huge adventure! To make sure you’re cool, calm, and collected, we’ve laid out the most common questions about our 3 day Machu Picchu tours from Lima. Let’s get you ready with zero stress!
What time does my Machu Picchu tour from Lima actually start?
Plan on setting that alarm early! We schedule pickup right from your Lima hotel around 4:00 a.m. The goal is to catch the first available flight to Cusco. Our team has the timing dialed in perfectly to maximize your experience right from the very first minute.
Do I need to worry about the altitude on the 3 day Machu Picchu Tour from Lima?
It's a valid concern, and honestly, everyone asks! Cusco sits high up at 11,150 feet (3,400 meters), so it’s something to be aware of. Our itineraries are specifically designed to help you ease into it safely.
Here’s the rundown: Take It Slow: We highly recommend spending that first day in the lower altitude Sacred Valley. It’s the smart, gradual way to acclimatize.
The First 24 Hours: Don't push it! Avoid intense physical activity right after you land. Rest is your best strategy.
Local Secret: Drink tons of water. And seriously, try the local coca or muña tea they’re traditional, effective helpers for altitude symptoms.
Keep It Light: Stick to light meals and definitely skip the heavy drinking early on.
Most people adjust quickly, but if you're prone to altitude issues, talk to your doctor about medication before booking your lima to machu picchu tour. Better safe than sorry!
Are flights included in the 3 day Machu Picchu tour from Lima package?
Absolutely, they are! Your 3 day Machu Picchu tour package includes round trip flights between Lima and Cusco. Plus, that ticket lets you bring one carry on bag up to 10 kg easy travel from the jump.
Where are the best places to eat during the 3 day Machu Picchu Tour from Lima?
You're going to eat incredibly well! Peruvian food is amazing. Here are some top local spots we love on your tour from Lima to Machu Picchu:
Cusco: For a great meal, hit Cicciolina, Chicha by Gastón Acurio, or Limbus Resto Bar. They totally deliver on flavor and atmosphere.
Sacred Valley: El Huacatay (Urubamba) and Tunupa Restaurant (Ollantaytambo) are perfect for delicious Peruvian dishes with scenic backdrops.
Aguas Calientes: For refueling after the big day, grab a bite at Indio Feliz, Toto’s House, or Tree House Restaurant. Great local ingredients!
What will I actually see on these 3 day tours from Lima Peru to Machu Picchu?
You'll be amazed at how much we cram in we’ve mastered the logistics! This itinerary moves fast but gives you the ultimate Andes experience:
- Day 1 (Cusco & Immersion): We fly you into Cusco, where you immediately start soaking up the city's charm. You'll see the Plaza de Armas, Qorikancha, and the artsy streets of San Blas. Then, it's off to the Sacred Valley. You catch the train from Ollantaytambo and sleep near the mountain in Aguas Calientes.
- Day 2 (The Citadel): This is the main event! Up early, quick bite, and straight up to Machu Picchu. The first view is unforgettable it truly feels like it’s been waiting just for you. Your guide hits all the main sites: Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana, Main Plaza. You get dedicated time after that to explore the magic solo!
- Day 3 (Wrap up & Departure): Back in Cusco, we usually fit in final spots like the huge stones of Sacsayhuamán, Q’enqo, or the famous Twelve Angled Stone. Then, it's a smooth transfer to the airport for your flight back to Lima.
What are the best places to stay for this 3 day Machu Picchu tour package?
Rest is vital for Machu Picchu. We split your stay between Cusco and Aguas Calientes, and we know all the sweet spots:
Splurge: Palacio del Inka (Cusco) offers incredible, historic luxury. Inkaterra (Aguas Calientes) is an amazing forest retreat.
Reliable Comfort: Tierra Viva Cusco Centro is always solid great location, no drama. Casa Andina Standard (Aguas Calientes) is modern and totally convenient.
Budget & Vibe: Pariwana Hostel (Cusco) is fun and clean. Supertramp Hostel (Aguas Calientes) offers great style and value.
Seriously: Get good sleep. Machu Picchu requires your A game!
Can I add the Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain hike?
Yes, you can! Both hikes are optional add ons to your tour from Lima to Machu Picchu. Heads up: tickets are extremely limited and sell out months in advance, even before your tour date! You absolutely must reserve these special passes when you book your main tour with us.
Will I get free time inside Machu Picchu?
Absolutely, you definitely get free time! Our guided tour is essential for understanding the site, but once your guide wraps up the highlights, the rest of the time is totally yours. This is your moment to wander Machu Picchu at your own speed take those epic pictures, find a quiet corner to soak it all in, or just sit and watch the clouds drift over the mountains. Plus, if you snagged a pass for one of the mountain climbs, that free time is exactly when you hit the trails. We always make sure you have dedicated time to experience the magic without feeling rushed.
Concierge & Local Guide
Available in Cusco
John Taqquere
Local Tour Guide
Travel specialist in Machu Picchu
“I grew up surrounded by the Andes, and I love sharing the history, traditions, and hidden stories of my home with travelers from around the world.”Text John Taqquere on WhatsApp → (opens in a new tab)
Contact us
Book or inquire
No obligation