A compact six-day loop through Lima, Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu that blends Inca archaeology, highland culture and dramatic Andean scenery—ideal for first-time visitors wanting iconic sites with practical logistics handled.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You arrive in the high, dry air of the Andes as terraces and jagged ridgelines frame a town that feels older than the maps say. From Cusco’s stone-walled plazas to the narrow streets of Ollantaytambo and the stepped terraces of Moray, this six-day loop moves you through living Inca landscapes and toward the rising stone of Machu Picchu.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6 days
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with light to moderate fitness able to walk 1–4 miles on uneven surfaces at altitude
Wildlife
History
Cusco served as the administrative capital of the Inca Empire; many colonial buildings were constructed atop Inca foundations, visible in sites like Qoricancha and Sacsayhuamán.
Conservation
Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley are protected with visitor limits—follow marked paths, avoid feeding wildlife, and support local guides and small businesses to reduce tourism pressure.
Reserve your spot on the 6 Days Lima and Cusco with Sacred Valley Overnight today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize in Cusco
Spend the first 24–48 hours in Cusco taking it easy to reduce altitude sickness risk; favor light activity and hydrate.
Book Machu Picchu early
Buy train and Machu Picchu entrance tickets well in advance—daily quotas and preferred time slots sell out seasonally.
Layer for temperature swings
Highland days can be warm while mornings and nights are cold—use a breathable base, insulating mid-layer and a windproof shell.
Carry local currency
Bring cash for markets, tips and small purchases in the Sacred Valley—card acceptance can be limited in rural towns.
Sturdy hiking shoes
Provides traction and ankle support on cobbled streets and archeological stonework.
Layered clothing
Thermal base, fleece and shell adapt to large diurnal temperature swings in the highlands.
Sun protection
High UV at altitude—bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a sun hat.
Reusable water bottle with filter or purification tablets
Staying hydrated is crucial at altitude; filtration helps with variable water sources.