Travel comfortably and confidently with Inside Peru Adventures. Our modern, fully-insured vehicles are operated by professional, local drivers who value punctuality and care. With smooth transfers and scenic routes, your journey becomes part of the experience—not just the way to get there.

Enjoy two scenic train rides aboard PeruRail’s Expedition train, included as part of your experience

• Upgrade Option – Vistadome Train: If you’re looking for enhanced comfort and panoramic windows for better sightseeing, you can upgrade to the Vistadome service:

  • One-way Vistadome (one way): $75 USD per person 

  • Round trip Vistadome (round trip): $125 USD per person

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• This optional upgrade is not included in the base package price and must be requested at the time of booking.

Forget the hassle of separate payments, all necessary entrance tickets are included in your package:

• Pisaq Archaeological Site (covered by the Tourist Ticket)

• Moray Agricultural Terraces (covered by the Tourist Ticket)

• Maras Salt Mines (separate entrance ticket included)

• Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site (covered by the Tourist Ticket)

• Machu Picchu Entrance Ticket

Every traveler with Inside Peru Adventures receives a small and meaningful surprise. It’s our way of sharing a bit of Peru’s soul and making your experience even more personal and unforgettable.

This optional hike to the iconic peak next to Machu Picchu is not included. It requires a separate permit and sells out quickly. If you’d like to add it, please request it at least one month in advance. The cost is $75 USD per person.

While not mandatory, we strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance, especially for altitude-related concerns, weather disruptions, or unexpected delays.

When planning your trip to Cusco, keep in mind that the Cusco International Airport (CUZ) currently only handles domestic flights. All international travelers arriving by plane must first land in Lima (Jorge Chávez International Airport), clear customs and immigration, and then check in again for their domestic flight to Cusco—even if it’s the same airline and the same day.

The fastest and most convenient way to get to Cusco is by air. Several domestic airlines operate daily flights from Lima to Cusco, including LATAM, Avianca and SKY Airlines, and more. LATAM offers the most frequency and punctuality, but usually at a higher price point. Keep in mind that flight delays or cancellations are common due to weather conditions and high-altitude landing restrictions at Cusco airport.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly or scenic option, you can also travel to Cusco by bus. While the bus ride from Lima to Cusco takes approximately 20–22 hours, buses are modern, clean, and very comfortable, especially with VIP seats. This is a great alternative for travelers coming from Puno, Arequipa, or other cities near Cusco.

Even though this is an overnight tour to Machu Picchu by train, luggage restrictions apply due to the limited cargo capacity on the Expedition and Vistadome trains. Each traveler is allowed only one carry-on bag. For your comfort, we strongly recommend bringing only the essentials in a small backpack or duffel.

If you have additional luggage with you in Cusco, don’t worry—we’ll help you store your bags securely. You can leave them at your hotel or with Inside Peru Adventures’ safe storage facilities. We’ll collect your bags the morning of your tour and return them once you’re back in Cusco.

Make sure each bag is clearly labeled with your name or tag, especially if you’re traveling in a group, to ensure an easy return.

The Sacred Valley of the Incas offers unforgettable experiences at high altitudes ranging from 2,800 to 3,800 m.a.s.l. (9,186–12,467 ft). For reference:

• Cusco: 3,400 m.a.s.l. (11,150 ft)

• Pisaq Archaeological Site: 3,300 m.a.s.l. (10,827 ft)

• Ollantaytambo: 2,800 m.a.s.l. (9,186 ft)

• Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town): 2,040 m.a.s.l. (6,692 ft)

• Machu Picchu Citadel: 2,430 m.a.s.l. (7,972 ft)

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Although the Sacred Valley tour is less physically demanding than treks like the Inca Trail or Rainbow Mountain, the elevation may still affect travelers, especially those arriving from low altitudes or sea level.

Why Acclimatization Matters

• Altitude sickness can affect anyone—regardless of age or fitness level. Symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and fatigue are common when ascending too quickly. That’s why we strongly recommend arriving at least one full day in Cusco before starting any tour or trek.

• Starting with a moderate, half-day tour like City Tour, Sacred Valley Tour or Maras & Moray Tour gives your body time to adapt gradually while you explore unique archaeological landscapes and Inca ingenuity without strenuous physical effort.

Pro Tip for Trekking Travelers: Planning to hike legendary trails like the Inca Trail, Salkantay Trek, Lares Trek, or Ausangate Trek? Or visit iconic high-altitude sites like Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley, Palccoyo, Pallay Punchu, 7 Lakes in Ausangate or Humantay Lagoon? 

• Begin your journey with a cultural acclimatization tour such as Maras & Moray, Cusco City Tour, or Sacred Valley Tour. These provide gentle exposure to altitude while enriching your travel experience with history, nature, and living culture.

Stay Healthy at Altitude: To minimize the effects of altitude and make the most of your tour:

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

• Avoid heavy meals before the tour.

• Get a good night’s rest beforehand.

• Enjoy traditional coca tea, known to help naturally with high-altitude adaptation.

The Inside Sacred Valley Experience 2D & Train to Machu Picchu is a culturally immersive yet physically accessible journey, perfect for curious travelers of all ages. This thoughtfully paced itinerary allows you to explore extraordinary archaeological landmarks — from the ancient ruins of Pisaq to the ceremonial terraces of Ollantaytambo — without the need for trekking. You'll travel comfortably by private vehicle and panoramic train, with moderate walking across stone paths, terraces, and gentle slopes.

While the experience is not physically demanding, it's important to remember that you'll be exploring regions at high altitude: Cusco (3,400 m / 11,155 ft), Pisaq (3,300 m / 10,827 ft), and Machu Picchu (2,430 m / 7,972 ft). Staying hydrated, wearing proper walking shoes, and using sun protection are highly recommended. Light layers will help you adapt to changing temperatures throughout the day.

This 3-day tour is ideal as a soft landing to acclimate your body to altitude while delving into the heart of the Inca Empire. You don’t need any special training—just an open mind, your camera, and a deep desire to connect with culture, history, and nature in a meaningful way.

Know the Climate Before You Go: Weather in the Andes of Peru is shaped by altitude and seasonal patterns—not by typical tropical rules. Understanding the conditions helps you pack smarter and travel more comfortably.

• Dry Season (Best Travel Time): April to October

  Expect clear skies, abundant sunshine, and minimal rainfall. Daytime temperatures can feel warm under the sun, while mornings and evenings are cooler—especially at higher elevations.

• Rainy Season: December to February

  Characterized by frequent rain showers, cloudy skies, and lush landscapes. Travel is still possible, but weather can be unpredictable.

• Shoulder Months (Transitional Weather): March and November

  These months often bring a mix of sunny days and occasional rain. Packing for both dry and wet conditions is highly recommended.

Smart Packing Essentials for Inside Sacred Valley Experience 2D & Train to Machu Picchu 3D/2N

• Dress in Layers for Andean Weather: The Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu region experience dramatic temperature shifts from sunrise to nightfall. We recommend wearing breathable, quick-dry layers: start with a thermal base layer, add a fleece or sweater, and finish with a lightweight windbreaker or waterproof jacket. This ensures comfort from cool mornings in Ollantaytambo to warm afternoons at the Machu Picchu citadel.
  

• Sun Protection at High Altitude: UV levels are intense even on cloudy days due to the elevation. Pack and use high-SPF sunscreen, UV-rated sunglasses, and a wide-brim hat to protect yourself from sunburn, especially while walking through archaeological sites like Pisaq and Moray.
  

• Rain Gear Year-Round: Sudden showers can occur even in the dry season. A compact rain poncho or waterproof jacket is essential—especially during your visit to the cloud forest region of Aguas Calientes and the Machu Picchu area.
  

• Comfortable Footwear: Expect to walk across cobbled streets, agricultural terraces, and ancient stone trails. Wear well-broken-in walking or hiking shoes with good grip and ankle support. Avoid new shoes to prevent blisters during your cultural exploration.

• Warm Accessories for Early Mornings: Morning temperatures in Ollantaytambo and at Machu Picchu can be chilly. Lightweight gloves and a thermal hat are recommended, particularly for early train departures and high-altitude mornings.

• Hydration Essentials: High elevation can dehydrate you quickly. Bring a refillable water bottle or hydration pack and drink water regularly throughout the day. We strongly encourage avoiding single-use plastics—support sustainable travel by opting for eco-conscious gear. Refer to the Inclusions section to verify if refill stations are available.

• Snacks for Energy: Long travel days and site visits require sustained energy. Pack compact, high-energy snacks like protein bars, dried fruit, or nuts to stay fueled, especially before your guided Machu Picchu visit.

• Daypack & Entry Essentials: A small daypack (under 25L) is perfect for carrying your jacket, snacks, refillable bottle, passport, and other personal items. Large backpacks are not allowed inside Machu Picchu. You must bring your original passport for entry—copies or digital versions will not be accepted at the gate.

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• At Inside Peru Adventures, your well-being comes first. Whether you're exploring the Sacred Valley, trekking the Andes, or visiting remote destinations in the highlands, we ensure your journey is not only unforgettable—but also safe, supported, and professionally managed.

• Trained & Certified Guides: All of our professional tour guides are certified in first aid and emergency response, with regular training in high-altitude safety, evacuation protocols, and outdoor risk management. This ensures they're fully prepared to handle any situation—from minor injuries to altitude-related discomfort.

• First-Aid Kits on Every Tour: We carry a fully equipped first-aid kit on every excursion, including supplies for common travel issues such as scrapes, blisters, motion sickness, insect bites, and altitude symptoms.

• Oxygen & Altitude Support: On all tours that venture above 3,000 m.a.s.l. (9,840 ft)—including popular routes like the Inca Trail, Salkantay Trek, Humantay Lagoon Hike, Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Hike, Lares Trek and Ausangate Trek—our guides are equipped with portable oxygen tanks. They’re trained to monitor and respond to altitude-related symptoms, providing immediate relief when needed.

• Emergency Transport Access: All our routes are carefully selected not only for beauty and cultural value, but also for emergency accessibility. In the unlikely event of a medical emergency, we have established response plans with local authorities and transport services for rapid evacuation.

Why Travel Insurance Matters for Adventure Travel
While Inside Peru Adventures prioritizes safety and preparation on every journey, the nature of adventure travel always carries a degree of unpredictability. For your peace of mind, we highly recommend securing comprehensive travel insurance before your trip.

What Should Your Policy Cover?
When exploring high-altitude regions or remote natural landscapes, make sure your insurance plan includes:

• Altitude sickness and medical emergencies

• Trip cancellations or itinerary interruptions

• Weather-related delays or disruptions

• Emergency evacuation and repatriation

• Lost or delayed luggage

• Coverage for adventure travel activities like trekking, hiking, and off-the-beaten-path exploration

Adventure destinations often involve rugged terrain, high elevation, and changing weather. A proper adventure travel insurance policy ensures you're covered in case of unexpected incidents. We recommend choosing a provider experienced in insuring active travelers and reviewing all terms carefully.

Pro Tip for Trekking Travelers: Not all travel insurance policies automatically cover high-altitude adventures. When choosing a plan, verify that your provider includes coverage for activities above 3,000 m.a.s.l. and for adventure sports or trekking. This ensures you're protected during iconic hikes like the Inca Trail, Salkantay Trek, or Ausangate Trek.

• Eco-Friendly Adventure Travel: We follow Leave No Trace guidelines and minimize our environmental footprint across every tour. From trekking to cultural immersion, we prioritize low-impact experiences that help preserve Peru’s diverse ecosystems, from high-Andean trails to tropical forests and coastal deserts.
• Plastic-Free Philosophy: We actively promote a plastic-free travel experience. Bring your reusable water bottle—please check if water refills are included in this tour under the Inclusions section. On treks and hikes where this service is provided, we’ll help you keep it full along the way. Reducing single-use plastic is one of the simplest and most powerful steps we take toward a greener Peru. 
• Respect for Local Culture & Traditions: Every destination we visit is treated with reverence. We engage with indigenous communities, sacred sites, and ancestral customs in a way that is ethical and culturally sensitive. Our team educates travelers on cultural respect to ensure tourism strengthens—not disrupts—local heritage.
• Community Empowerment & Fair Tourism: We believe in tourism that gives back. Every tour you book helps generate fair and sustainable income for local guides, craftswomen, organic farmers, transport providers, and indigenous cooperatives. We prioritize hiring local, sourcing handmade, and supporting projects that uplift Peru’s living cultural heritage

• Valid Passport or Student ID

  Always carry official identification—helpful for entry records, hotel check-ins, or in case of emergencies.

• Immigration Card (if applicable)

• Provided upon arrival to Peru. Keep it safe as some accommodations may request it.

• Comfortable Walking Shoes or Light Hiking Shoes

  You’ll walk through cobblestone streets, uneven paths, and archaeological terraces. Proper footwear ensures safety and comfort.

• Layered Trekking Clothing

  Weather shifts quickly in the Andes. Use a breathable base layer, a warm fleece or sweater, and a packable windbreaker or light jacket.

• Sun Hat or Cap + Light Scarf

  Essential for sun protection during high-altitude exposure.

• Light Rain Poncho or Waterproof Jacke

• Sudden rain showers are common—even in the dry season. Choose compact, breathable gear that fits in your daypack.

• Sunscreen (SPF 50+) & UV Sunglasses

  UV radiation is strong in the Andes. Protect your skin and eyes—even on cloudy days.

• Lip Balm & Hydrating Face Cream

  Dry air can crack skin and lips. Travel-size skincare essentials are a must.

• Hand Sanitizer & Biodegradable Wet Wipes

  Useful before meals or after exploring ruins without easy access to sinks.

• Personal Medication

• Include motion sickness pills if sensitive to winding roads, pain relievers, and any prescriptions.

• High-Energy Snacks

  Pack nutritious, compact snacks such as granola bars, trail mix, or dried fruit. They help replenish energy quickly during the hike.

• Camera or Smartphone

  Don’t miss the chance to capture panoramic views and unique landscapes. A power bank is also recommended.

• Cash in Soles

  Small denominations are useful for optional tips, snacks, or souvenirs from local vendors.

• Reusable Water Bottle or Hydration Pack

• Stay eco-friendly and hydrated. Carry at least 2 liters of water for the day. Please check the Inclusions section to see if water refills are provided on your trail—refilling options may be limited otherwise.