Peru in 7 days: Cusco, the Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu
A week built around Machu Picchu, with the time it needs: a slow start in Cusco for the altitude, the villages and ruins of the Sacred Valley, then the train to the citadel.
When to go
May to September is the dry season and the busiest. November to March is the rainy season; the Inca Trail closes every February for maintenance.
Flights: into Cusco
Recent round-trip fares Aviasales travellers found to Cusco; tap a route for today's price.
Day-by-day plan
Cusco 2 nights
Fly into Cusco (about 3,400 m) via Lima and take it easy: the Plaza de Armas and San Blas, with plenty of water.
Qorikancha, the cathedral and Sacsayhuamán above the city.
🚆 Road Cusco → Sacred Valley: about 1 h 30 min (taxi, tour or shared van).
Sacred Valley 2 nights
The Pisac ruins and market, lower and warmer than Cusco.
The Ollantaytambo fortress; Moray and the Maras salt pans nearby.
🚆 Train Ollantaytambo → Aguas Calientes: about 1 h 30 min to 2 hours.
Machu Picchu 1 night
Bus up from Aguas Calientes for your timed entry; Huayna Picchu if you booked it.
🚆 Train and road back to Cusco: about 3 h 30 min to 4 hours in total.
Cusco 1 night
A full-day trip to Rainbow Mountain, or a slow last day in Cusco.
✈️ Day 7: fly home via Lima.
Tips for this trip
- Machu Picchu tickets are timed and limited; book them, and the train, weeks ahead in the dry season.
- Spend your first nights low (the Sacred Valley is lower than Cusco) if you worry about altitude.
- Bring layers: mornings are cold and afternoons warm at this altitude.
Prefer a guided tour?
The same route with hotels, transport and a guide arranged for you. Live prices and reviews; you book and pay on TourRadar.
More Peru trips ›FAQ
Is 7 days enough for Machu Picchu?
Yes. A week gives you two days to adjust in Cusco, the Sacred Valley and a full day at Machu Picchu.
Do I need a guide at Machu Picchu?
Entry rules change; currently visitors must follow set circuits, and a licensed guide is required for many tickets. Check when you book.
Can I add the Inca Trail?
The classic Inca Trail takes four days and needs a permit through a licensed operator, booked months ahead.