Cusco, Peru is a vibrant city filled with rich history and culture. From ancient Incan ruins to vibrant markets, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. And what better way to experience all that this beautiful city has to offer than with a private tour? Private tours offer an immersive experience, allowing you to explore the city with a local guide and at your own pace. In this post, we’ve compiled a list of the five best private tours in Cusco, so whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or just looking for an adventure, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive in!

The 5 Best Private Tours in Cusco

1. Sacred Valley Tour (Private)
2. Machu Picchu full day with lunch – PRIVATE TOUR
3. 3 Days – All Inclusive – Cusco Sacred Valley And Machupicchu – Private Tour
4. Sacred Valley & One Day Inca Trail 3 Days (Private)
5. Private Exclusive 4 Day Inca Jungle Trek Adventure

The 5 Best Private Tours in Cusco

1. Sacred Valley Tour (Private)

Discover the Sacred Valley with this private tour that takes you to explore the fascinating Incan archeological sites of Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero. The tour starts with a convenient pickup from your hotel in the center of Cusco and takes you on a comfortable tourist bus with a bilingual tour guide.

You will visit the vibrant artisan market of Pisac, the impressive fortress of Ollantaytambo, and the picturesque town of Chinchero, where you can see the traditional weaving techniques used by the locals. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a delicious buffet lunch at a local restaurant in Urubamba.

The tour includes the entrance tickets to the archeological sites of Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero. You will also receive a tourist ticket that allows you to explore other sites in the Sacred Valley at your leisure. After the tour, you will be taken back to your hotel in Cusco.

Please note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible and infants must sit on laps. Confirmation will be received at the time of booking, and most travelers can participate. The maximum number of travelers allowed on this tour is 9. Also note that this tour is operated by a third-party company, and the experience cannot be refunded or changed once booked.

2. Machu Picchu full day with lunch – PRIVATE TOUR

Looking for a way to explore Machu Picchu with privacy and comfort? Look no further than this private tour. Enjoy a briefing the day before the tour at your own hotel before embarking on a 2 to 2.5-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu. Afterward, indulge in an appetizer and main course lunch in Aguas Calientes before retiring for the night at a hotel in Cusco. The next day, take advantage of entrance to Huayna Picchu and enjoy a worry-free tour knowing that gratuities are included. Pickup is available from any hotel or Airbnb in Cusco or Sacred Valley of the Incas. Note that while most travelers can participate, this tour is not wheelchair accessible and infants must sit on laps. Confirmation of booking is received at the time of booking, and the tour is operated by Inca Machu Picchu Tours. Keep in mind that this experience is non-refundable and cancellation or amendment will result in the forfeiture of funds paid.

3. 3 Days – All Inclusive – Cusco Sacred Valley And Machupicchu – Private Tour

This 3-day private tour of Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu is the perfect way to immerse yourself in Incan culture and history. You’ll start your journey with a sightseeing tour of Cusco, known as the “Imperial City” and explore key locations. On day 2, you’ll venture to the Sacred Valley, where you can witness firsthand how the Incas utilized their land. Finally, on day 3, you’ll visit the world-famous Machu Picchu, learning about the fascinating history and culture of the Incas. This all-inclusive tour includes 2 nights of accommodation in 3-star hotels, breakfasts, all transportation, and entrance fees to both Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. The tour is private, ensuring a personalized experience that caters to your needs. Don’t miss the chance to explore two UNESCO World Heritage Sites and create priceless memories on this incredible journey.

4. Sacred Valley & One Day Inca Trail 3 Days (Private)

Explore the scenic beauty and historical significance of the Sacred Valley and Inca Trail on this private 3-day tour. With private transportation, experienced guides, and carefully curated itinerary, you will get to experience the best of Cusco.

Day 1: Sacred Valley
On the first day of the tour, you will visit the famous Pisac market and archaeological site, followed by a guided tour of the Ollantaytambo Fortress. You will then spend the night in a hotel located in the Sacred Valley.

Day 2: One Day Inca Trail
Early in the morning, you will take a train to the starting point of the Inca Trail. You will hike to Winay Wayna, which is the one of the most beautiful Inca ruins on the way to Machu Picchu. Then, you will head to Machu Picchu to explore the iconic ruins with your guide. You will spend the night in Aguas Calientes.

Day 3: Machu Picchu
On the final day of the tour, you will have the chance to revisit Machu Picchu on your own, climb the Huayna Picchu mountain or visit the Aguas Calientes hot springs. Afterward, you will return to Cusco by train and be dropped off at your hotel in the evening.

This tour includes private transportation, train tickets, Machu Picchu entrance fee, hotel, dinner, and last day lunch. The pickup time is 7:30 am and there are multiple pickup points available. Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking and the tour is wheelchair accessible. Infants must sit on laps and travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level. The tour will have a maximum of 8 travelers and it can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

5. Private Exclusive 4 Day Inca Jungle Trek Adventure

This private and exclusive 4 day Inca Jungle Trek Adventure is the perfect experience for those who love adventure and nature. Get ready for an unforgettable time as you explore the Peruvian Andes on a mountain bike, hike through the jungle, and visit the famous Machu Picchu.

Your adventure guide will pick you up from your accommodation in Cusco and take you on this thrilling journey. The tour includes entrance fees to Machu Picchu, travel insurance, and tips for guides.

Before starting the trek, you’ll receive the necessary biking equipment and a briefing about the tour. On the first day, you’ll bike down the mountains and explore the jungle, ending with a relaxing dip in the hot springs.

The second and third days of the tour involve hiking through the jungle and seeing stunning waterfalls, native plants, and wildlife. You’ll also have the opportunity to sleep in a local homestay and fully immerse yourself in the Peruvian culture.

On your fourth and final day, you’ll visit the famous Machu Picchu and enjoy a guided tour of the ancient ruins. After the tour, you have the option to take transport back to Cusco or explore Machu Picchu further and take transport at a later time.

Please note that this tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness and is not recommended for travelers with back problems. Additionally, infants must sit on laps, and service animals are allowed. The cancellation policy allows for a full refund if canceled at least 7 days in advance of the tour.

Most Frequently Asked Questions about Cusco

Cusco is a stunning city located high in the Andes Mountains in southeastern Peru. It is best known for its well-preserved Inca ruins, including the famous Machu Picchu. The city is also famous for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant culture. If you are planning a trip to Cusco, you may have several questions about the city. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions:

1. When is the best time to visit Cusco?

The best time to visit Cusco is during the dry months of May to September. These months offer clear blue skies and sunny weather, which is perfect for exploring the city and its surrounding areas. However, if you are planning to visit Machu Picchu, it is best to visit during the shoulder seasons of April-May or September-November, as the crowds are smaller.

2. Do I need a visa to visit Cusco?

If you are a citizen of the United States, Canada, Australia, or most countries in Europe, you do not need a visa to enter Peru. You will receive a temporary visa upon arrival, which will allow you to stay in the country for up to 183 days.

3. Do I need to speak Spanish to visit Cusco?

While Spanish is the official language of Peru, many people in Cusco speak English, especially those who work in the tourism industry. However, it is always helpful to know some basic Spanish phrases to help you communicate with locals.

4. Is Cusco safe?

Cusco is generally considered safe for tourists. However, like any other city, it is important to take basic safety precautions such as keeping your valuables safe and being aware of your surroundings.

5. What are the must-visit attractions in Cusco?

There are several attractions that you must visit when in Cusco, including:- Machu Picchu: One of the most famous ancient sites in the world, Machu Picchu is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Peru.

– The Plaza de Armas: The historic center of Cusco, this square is home to several beautiful colonial buildings and a great place to people-watch.

– The Sacred Valley: Located just outside of Cusco, the Sacred Valley is home to several fascinating Inca ruins and stunning landscapes.

– Sacsayhuaman: This Inca archaeological site is located just outside of Cusco and is known for its massive stone walls and amazing views of the city.

6. What is the altitude of Cusco and how can I avoid altitude sickness?

Cusco is located at an altitude of 11,152 feet (3,399 meters) above sea level. Many visitors to the city may experience altitude sickness, which can cause symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and dizziness.To avoid altitude sickness, it is recommended to spend a few days acclimatizing in Cusco before venturing to higher elevations. You can also take medication such as acetazolamide to help prevent altitude sickness.

7. What is the currency used in Cusco?

The official currency of Peru is the Sol. US dollars are widely accepted in Cusco, especially in the tourist areas.

8. What is the food like in Cusco?

Cusco is known for its delicious Peruvian cuisine, which includes dishes such as ceviche, lomo saltado, and ají de gallina. There are also several excellent restaurants in Cusco that serve international cuisine.

9. Can I drink the tap water in Cusco?

It is not recommended to drink tap water in Cusco, as it may cause stomach problems. It is best to drink bottled water or water that has been boiled or purified.

10. How do I get around Cusco?

Cusco is a small city and is easily walkable. However, if you need to travel further, taxis and buses are readily available. Many tourists also opt to take guided tours to explore the city and its surrounding areas.

Conclusion

Cusco is a breathtaking destination that offers a wealth of experiences for travelers. By knowing the answers to these frequently asked questions, you can better plan your trip and ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable visit to this beautiful city.