Embark on an immersive 8-day journey through the heart of the Inca Empire, starting from Lima. This expertly curated tour explores the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and historic Cusco, offering a perfect blend of culture, history, and stunning landscapes. With comfortable accommodations, daily breakfasts, and guided excursions, travelers can explore the wonders of this ancient civilization. Whether you’re a history buff or a nature enthusiast, this adventure promises an unforgettable experience.

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Key Points

This 8-day immersive tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the Inca Empire, including visits to the Sacred Valley, Cusco, and the iconic Machu Picchu.
Accommodations in Lima and Cusco with daily breakfast, and a flexible cancellation policy, ensure a comfortable and hassle-free travel experience.
Guided tours provide in-depth insights into the history, culture, and significance of the Inca sites, including the Pisac archaeological site and Ollantaytambo fortress.
Participants can experience Quechua culture and traditional Pachamanca cuisine during a local home visit in the Sacred Valley.
The tour includes all necessary transfers, as well as the opportunity to hike the Inca Trail and discover the spiritual significance of Machu Picchu.

Tour Overview

What does this 8-day immersive tour of the Inca Empire from Lima entail?

Travelers will explore renowned Incan sites in the Sacred Valley, Cusco, and the iconic Machu Picchu. Highly recommended by 98% of previous participants, the tour boasts a 4.9 rating from 55 reviews.

Accommodations in Lima and Cusco with breakfast are included. The tour provides all transfers, guided excursions, and entrance fees.

While 7 breakfasts and 2 lunches are part of the package, other meals are excluded. With a flexible cancellation policy and clear travel requirements, this comprehensive Inca experience is ideal for history enthusiasts.

Looking for more options in Lima? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary and Inclusions

This 8-day tour includes all transfers from/to airports, hotels, railway, and bus stations.

Guided tours of the Sacred Valley, Cusco, and Machu Picchu are provided. Travelers will enjoy 7 nights of accommodation based on the selected hotel class.

All entrance fees for the scheduled tours and excursions are covered. Meals include 7 breakfasts and 2 lunches, though other food and drinks aren’t included.

With a 90% refund for cancellations 15 days prior and free cancellation up to 24 hours before, this tour offers flexibility.

Passport details and morning flights from Lima to Cusco are required.

Accommodations and Dining

The tour includes 7 nights of accommodations based on the selected hotel class, providing travelers with comfortable lodging throughout their Inca Empire exploration.

Breakfast is included daily, ensuring a hearty start to each day. Additionally:

Lunch is provided on 2 occasions, offering a chance to savor authentic Peruvian cuisine during the journey.
The tour excludes any other unspecified meals and drinks, allowing guests to explore local restaurants and sample the vibrant culinary scene at their own pace.
All transportation, from airports to hotels, is included, making the logistics hassle-free for participants.

Sacred Valley Exploration

After arriving in Cusco, the tour embarks on an immersive exploration of the Sacred Valley.

Travelers visit the Pisac archaeological site, marveling at the Incan ruins and bustling artisan market. Next, they tour the Ollantaytambo fortress, a well-preserved Incan town with stone structures and steep agricultural terraces.

The day continues with a stop at a local family’s home, where they experience Quechua culture and enjoy a traditional Pachamanca lunch cooked in an earth oven.

Throughout the day, guides share insights into the Inca Empire’s history and significance of these important cultural sites.

Machu Picchu Discovery

Departing the Sacred Valley, the tour heads to the iconic Machu Picchu, one of the most famous Inca sites.

Visitors will:

Explore the citadel’s terraces, plazas, and temples, marveling at the precision of its construction.
Hike the iconic Inca Trail, immersed in the stunning Andean scenery.
Discover the site’s spiritual significance through guided tours, learning about the Inca’s advanced civilization.

With its awe-inspiring landscapes and well-preserved ruins, Machu Picchu offers an unparalleled glimpse into the Inca Empire’s legacy.

Machu Picchu’s awe-inspiring landscapes and well-preserved ruins offer an unparalleled glimpse into the Inca Empire’s legacy.

The tour ensures a comprehensive experience of this New Wonder of the World.

There's plenty more to explore in Lima

Cusco City Tour

From Machu Picchu, the tour next explores the historic city of Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire.

Travelers visit Koricancha, the Sun Temple, and the Cusco Cathedral, showcasing the city’s blend of Inca and Spanish colonial architecture.

The guide takes the group through the charming Plaza de Armas, the heart of Cusco.

Excursions include the Sacsayhuaman fortress, an impressive Inca complex overlooking the city.

Participants learn about Cusco’s rich history and cultural significance as the administrative and religious center of the Inca civilization.

The tour provides a comprehensive understanding of this iconic Andean city.

Travel Requirements and Preparation

Travelers must provide their passport details at the time of booking for all participants. This is a necessary requirement to ensure a smooth experience throughout the tour.

Providing passport details at booking ensures a smooth tour experience for all participants.

Plus, keep in mind:

Morning flights from Lima to Cusco are necessary, as arriving after noon is too late.
The tour operator provides recommendations for managing altitude sickness, which is important given the high elevation of many Inca sites.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but most travelers in reasonable physical condition can participate.

Careful planning and preparation will help make the Inca Empire tour a memorable journey.

Booking and Confirmation

Booking the Inca Empire tour is a straightforward process. Travelers will need to provide their passport details at the time of booking.

The tour includes pickup from J Chavez International Airport in Lima, where staff will assist with customs exit. Confirmation is received upon booking, and the tour is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate. Morning flights from Lima to Cusco are necessary, as arrival by noon is too late.

Recommendations for managing altitude sickness are also provided to ensure a comfortable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, you can’t bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes 7 breakfasts and 2 lunches, but excludes any other unspecified meals and drinks. Participants must rely on the catering provided as part of the tour.

What Is the Dress Code for the Included Meals?

The tour’s included meals don’t have a strict dress code. Casual, comfortable attire is appropriate. Travelers should dress for the local weather and be prepared for varied dining environments throughout the trip.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Minimum Age Requirements?

This tour doesn’t have any age restrictions or minimum age requirements. It’s suitable for travelers of all ages who can participate in the included activities. Families with children are welcome to join the tour.

Can the Tour Be Customized or Personalized to My Preferences?

The tour can’t be fully customized, but travelers can choose their preferred hotel class and dietary needs. Tour activities and itinerary are set, though guides may suggest optional add-ons based on interests.

How Much Additional Spending Money Should I Budget for the Tour?

The tour package includes most essentials, but travelers should budget an additional $500-$800 for optional activities, meals not specified, and personal expenses like souvenirs. The exact amount will vary based on individual spending habits.

The Sum Up

This 8-day tour through the Inca Empire is an exceptional opportunity to take in Peru’s rich history and culture. Travelers will marvel at the stunning landscapes, explore ancient sites, and engage with local traditions, all while enjoying comfortable accommodations and expert-guided experiences. With highly-rated reviews, this adventure offers an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Inca legacy.