Private Machu Picchu Tours
The world-renowned archaeological site of Machu Picchu is a true wonder of the world. Explore the citadel’s stunning ruins and learn about the ancient Inca civilization that built them on our Machu Picchu private tours and Machu Picchu trek tours. Visit the nearby salt mines of Maras, and the picturesque villages of the Sacred Valley. And immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and history of Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. Machu Picchu is a bucket list destination for anyone seeking adventure, history, and natural beauty.
Machu Picchu Highlights
This six-day Machu Picchu tour gives you ample opportunity to experience the Andean wonders of today and the Incan culture of yesteryear, while we take care of your every requirement and comfort. This route combines adventure with cultural exploration, taking you off the beaten track with visits to the authentic Andean communities who exist alongside ancient ruins. You’ll be surrounded by stunning mountains, lakes and valleys, all while staying in picturesque mountain lodges, and soaking up centuries of history and culture.
Machu Picchu Highlights
6 days starting from $3,290 per person
Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Trek
Trek the final portion of the Inca Trail in style, just as the Incas did hundreds of years ago, while overnighting in comfortable hotels along the way. This truncated version of the Inca Trail is the perfect tour-and-trekking opportunity for families or for those who are short of time but still want to experience the magnificence of the approach to Machu Picchu. Also included are guided tours of Cusco, the capital city of the Incas; Lima, the cosmopolitan capital of Peru; and the Sacred Valley, the magnificent agricultural heartland of the Incas.
Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Trek
7 days starting from $3,690 per person
Machu Picchu Family
This 7 Day private family trip to Machu Picchu has been carefully crafted with families in mind. You’ll start with an exploration of the Sacred Valley, home to countless llamas and guinea pigs (great for little ones) and the adrenaline opportunities older kids crave. From there your family will continue to the magical Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, for a private tour that’s paced just right for your needs. Finally you’ll make your way to Cusco, for a double dose of culture and chocolate.
Machu Picchu Family
7 days starting from $3,590 per person
Galapagos Cruise & Machu Picchu Tour
This 11-day Galapagos and Machu Picchu tour allows you to experience the two leading destinations of South America in one seamless and comfortable tour. Explore the wildlife-paradise of the Galapagos Islands in a private luxury boat, visiting natural and geographical wonders. Then immerse yourself in the incredible Incan heartland of Peru, visiting Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu citadel – the lost city of the Incas.
Galapagos Cruise & Machu Picchu Tour
11 days starting from $7,490 per person
Machu Picchu & Amazon
Combine the biodiverse splendor of the Amazon basin with the wondrous Incan history of Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. Explore the Amazon river tributaries and take a guided jungle walk to discover the exotic wildlife and plants, by foot and canoe. Then enjoy one of our Machu Picchu luxury tours, exploring the wonders of this Incan citadel with an experienced guide, before journeying through the Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo and the one-time capital of the Incan Empire, Cusco.
Machu Picchu & Amazon
8 days starting from $4,090 per person
Great Inca Trail Castillo to Huanuco Pampa
Indulge in the adventure of a lifetime when you hike a pristine section of the Great Inca Trail, a 25,000-mile road network widely regarded as one of the world’s greatest engineering marvels. For five days you’ll traverse a remote, rugged and spectacular swath of Peru’s Northern Andes that very few tourists have ever visited. You will follow in the footsteps of the Incas – treading their great road, camping at ancient refuges and relying on llamas to carry your luggage – under the watchful guidance of an experienced local guide, chef, and porters.
Great Inca Trail Castillo to Huanuco Pampa
8 days starting from $5,190 per person
Uyuni Salt Flats & Machu Picchu
Combine the otherworldly landscapes of the Uyuni Salt Flats in Bolivia with a visit to Peru’s Sacred Valley that culminates in a visit to magical Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas. On this nine-day Uyuni to Machu Picchu tour, you will journey through the mind-bending salt flats in a luxury private 4WD vehicle and sleep in a unique hotel constructed out of salt. After visiting Cusco, the old Inca capital you will venture into the heartland of the Incas where you will be treated to private tours of the key sites and accommodated in comfort.
Uyuni Salt Flats & Machu Picchu
9 days starting from $4,690 per person
Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu
Delve into the wonders of the Sacred Valley, before exploring the ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu and then returning to Cusco, the capital of the Incan Empire. You will start with an exploration of the Sacred Valley, which being a few thousand feet lower than the city of Cusco, will help you acclimatize. After visiting the archeological sites of Moray, Maras and Ollantaytambo, you'll continue to the magical Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, where you will enjoy both guided tours and free time to explore. You’ll then make your way to Cusco, with its fascinating mix of Spanish and Incan culture.
Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu
7 days starting from $3,690 per person
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu
Trek to Machu Picchu by going “off the beaten Inca Trail” on the exotic Salkantay Trek. Described by National Geographic as “the cool way” to get to the ancient Incan citadel, this challenging hike takes you through Andean peaks, cloud forests, Incan ruins and small villages where people still live as they have for hundreds of years. You’ll camp in style, beat the crowds to Machu Picchu, and visit cosmopolitan Lima and charming Cusco, the erstwhile capital of the Incas.
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu
9 days starting from $4,590 per person
South America Highlights
On this 12-Day South America Highlights Tour, you’ll encounter three New Wonders of the World: Christ the Redeemer in Brazil, Iguazu Falls in Argentina and Machu Picchu in Peru. You’ll also visit Cusco, Buenos Aires and the Sacred Valley, the beating heart of the Incan Empire. This tour balances fascinating excursions with free time at key destinations to explore at your leisure. And we’ll take care of you every step of the way and accommodate you in comfort and luxury for the duration.
South America Highlights
12 days starting from $5,690 per person
Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountain
In just over a week you can explore the best the Andes of Peru have to offer on this 8-day Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountain expedition. A quick departure from Lima to Cusco kicks off the adventure of scenic train rides through the Sacred Valley, high-altitude hikes into the clouds of Machu Picchu and the unique Rainbow Mountain, not to mention treks through ingenious agricultural sites left behind by the Inca culture. Private tours and luxurious accommodations assure that you can relish your new surroundings of the picturesque Peruvian highlands.
Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountain
8 days starting from $4,290 per person
Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Tackle the legendary Inca Trail for the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to approach Machu Picchu through breathtaking mountain scenery, as the Incas themselves did many centuries ago. The classic five-day Inca Trail trek involves visits to all the trail’s famous sites, including the ruins at Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca and Wiñay Wayna. Your equipment will be carried by experienced porters and you will sleep in tented luxury as you make your way to your ultimate destination of Machu Picchu, which you will view through the inimitable Sun Gate.
Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
9 days starting from $4,790 per person
Peru Honeymoon
Welcome to your honeymoon. We’re delighted to be sharing the wonders of Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley with you. You’ll begin your romantic exploration in the picturesque Sacred Valley. As this agricultural belt is a couple of thousand feet lower than the city of Cusco, this helps with acclimatization. After exploring the Sacred Valley and indulging yourselves with a luxurious spa day, you'll continue in comfort to the awe-inspiring Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu, before returning to the charming Inca capital of Cusco.
Peru Honeymoon
8 days starting from $4,390 per person
Machu Picchu & Sanctuary Lodge
The Belmond Sanctuary Lodge is the only Machu Picchu hotel that is literally on the ruins’ doorstep and you’ll be staying there. This 6-day private Machu Picchu tour meanders through Cusco and the Sacred Valley before culminating in a privileged stay at the very entrance to the Lost City of the Incas. You’ll explore enigmatic Inca ruins and fascinating colonial cities with an expert private guide and be immersed in the captivating Andean way of life which has remained unchanged for centuries. Plus you’ll travel in comfort, stay in luxury Belmond hotels and feast on Peru’s epicurean delights.
Machu Picchu & Sanctuary Lodge
6 days starting from $5,090 per person
Active Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu Tour
This 8-day Sacred Valley tour is for people who like to get their blood pumping while seeing the glorious historical sights the Sacred Valley has to offer. You will hike to the remote indigenous community of Choquechaca. Learn about their ancient weaving traditions, enjoy a freshly prepared mountainside lunch, and explore the ruins of Pumamarca, before heading on to tour Machu Picchu and Cusco in style.
Active Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu Tour
8 days starting from $4,090 per person
Machu Picchu & Andean Highlights
This 11-Day Andean Highlights and Machu Picchu tour gives you the opportunity to take in the best that the Peruvian highlands have to offer. You’ll explore Arequipa, the city built from volcanic ash, then travel through the Colca Canyon to see the majestic condor soar against breath-taking Andean landscapes. You’ll experience island hopping Peruvian style on Lake Titicaca before topping it all off with luxury tours of the Incan heartland, visiting Machu Picchu, Cusco and the Sacred Valley.
Machu Picchu & Andean Highlights
11 days starting from $5,290 per person
Machu Picchu & Aqua Nera Amazon Cruise
Hop from one jaw-dropping experience to another on this 11-day expedition that features both Machu Picchu and a luxury jungle cruise aboard the extravagant Aqua Nera ship. Begin with a journey through the Andes Mountains, breathing in the serenity of the Sacred Valley and the mystery of the lost citadel of the Incas, before alighting in Iquitos, the gateway city to the Amazon rainforest. Board your luxury cruise for an unforgettable three-night expedition in the land of pink river dolphins, monkeys, and macaws.
Machu Picchu & Aqua Nera Amazon Cruise
11 days starting from $8,690 per person
Machu Picchu & Amazon Delfin III Cruise
Experience two of South America’s most dazzling wonders on this 9-Day Machu Picchu and Delfin III Cruise. Allow the rhythms of nature to wash over you on a 3-night cruise aboard a luxurious Amazon river boat where you’ll experience the wildlife, cultures and landscapes of the world’s wildest place in style. Then immerse yourself in the achievements of one of the greatest cultures of pre-industrial man, first in the ancient Inca capital of Cusco, then in the majestic Sacred Valley and at peerless Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu & Amazon Delfin III Cruise
9 days starting from $6,290 per person
Machu Picchu to Easter Island
Immerse yourself in the history of two of the world’s most captivating and enigmatic cultures on this bucket-list 11-Day Machu Picchu to Easter Island. You’ll visit the ancient Inca capital of Cusco, before venturing further into the Andes to explore the unforgettable citadel of Machu Picchu. After a sojourn in Chile’s cool, cosmopolitan capital you’ll jet off to Easter Island, one of the world’s most remote and fascinating outposts, to get up close and personal with the island’s legendary moai (stone carvings).
Machu Picchu to Easter Island
11 days starting from $5,590 per person
Andean Highlights & Uyuni Salt Flats
Experience the best of the Andean highlands on this 11-day Uyuni and Andes Tour, travelling from Bolivia’s capital La Paz to the otherworldly Uyuni Salt Flats in Bolivia, then on to the beautiful Islands of Lake Titicaca in Peru. The expedition culminates with a trip to the awe-inspiring ruins at Machu Picchu, and a tour of the Sacred Valley, the spiritual and agricultural epicenter of the Incan Empire.
Andean Highlights & Uyuni Salt Flats
11 days starting from $5,990 per person
How It Works
STEP 1
Get Paired with a Destination Expert
Connect with our team of premier travel experts for unmatched firsthand knowledge and unwavering support from the moment you plan your journey until you return home.
STEP 2
Design a Custom One-of-a-kind Trip
Your dedicated Destination Expert will collaborate closely with you to craft a truly distinctive itinerary tailored to your preferences and prepare you for your journey.
STEP 3
Relax and Enjoy Your Unique Journey
Embark on an unparalleled adventure as you explore extraordinary destinations around the world, accompanied by exceptional guides while indulging in carefully selected accommodations.
WHY CONNECT WITH A DESTINATION EXPERT?
Best of Machu Picchu
Our Destination Experts describe their favorite places and ways to visit Machu Picchu from their personal travel experience.
Visit Machu Picchu in Private
Visiting Machu Picchu in private offers a unique and intimate experience of this ancient Incan citadel. With our luxury Machu Picchu tours, you can explore the ruins at your own pace and gain a deeper understanding of the history and culture of the site. You can also avoid crowds and have the opportunity to access some areas that are not open to the general public.
The Secrets of Inca Archaeology
When you visit Machu Picchu, spare a moment to contemplate that it was built without the use of modern tools or machinery. The precision of Inca stonework, the complexity of their road networks, and the significance of their ceremonial sites all offer clues to their advanced engineering and cultural practices. We still have loads to learn about this remarkable civilization.
Experience the Peruvian Andes
The breathtaking Peruvian Andes offer a wide range of activities, including mountain biking, whitewater rafting and legendary trekking experiences including the Inca Trail and the Salkantay and Lares Treks. The region is also home to numerous indigenous communities that offer cultural exchanges and unique culinary experiences. A journey through the Andes is an experience that will stay with you forever.
Machu Picchu Guides
Featuring ancient Incan ruins nestled amidst breathtaking Andean vistas, exotic Machu Picchu should be on every true traveler’s bucket list.
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Stay in the Know
Best time to visit Machu Picchu
Climate and other tips by destination to choose the best time of year for you.
WHY TRAVEL WITH SA
SA Expeditions is 99% recommended, provide custom trips designed by Experts and Explorers with 24/7 support, and is also B-corp certified for a positive impact.
SOCIETY AND CULTURE
Learn more about local culture and customs, history, environment, and more from our curated journal collection.
FAQ's
Machu Picchu is open year-round, and each season offers something unique. Most travelers prefer the dry season (May-September) for clear skies and trail conditions ideal for Machu Picchu tours, Inca Trail tours, and family itineraries. Shoulder months like April and October offer fewer crowds with mild weather. We tailor departure dates around conditions, crowd levels, and permit availability.
→ Learn more in our blog about Best time to visit Machu Picchu.
We recommend 2 days to fully explore the citadel, acclimate to altitude, and add iconic hikes such as Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. Private pacing ensures you get the most out of every moment. That being said, many travelers consider 1 day to be sufficient, especially if there is no interest in hiking. The highlights can easily be seen in 2- to 3-hour tours at the site.
Most travelers take a scenic train from Cusco or the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes, followed by a short shuttle up to the site. Others choose the Classic Inca Trail (4 days) or the Short Inca Trail (1 day).
→ Learn more in our blog about How to travel to Inca’s Lost City.
We advise booking 3-6 months in advance, especially if you’re interested in Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain, or the Classic Inca Trail, as these permits are limited and sell out quickly. When you travel with us, we handle all Machu Picchu tickets, trekking permits, and logistics for a seamless arrival.
Huayna Picchu is shorter, steeper, and more adventurous, offering dramatic summit views and access to archaeological sites like the Temple of the Moon. Machu Picchu Mountain is longer with wider paths, fewer crowds, and panoramic vistas of the citadel and surrounding peaks. We match the hike to your pace, mobility, and scenic interests.
→ Check out our full comparison blog article.
Yes. Beginners frequently enjoy a guided Machu Picchu tour or the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Our expert local guides set a comfortable pace and provide technical insight, making the experience accessible.
Altitude affects each traveler differently.
Sacred Valley: ~9,000 ft (2,743 m)
Cusco: ~11,150 ft (3,400 m)
Machu Picchu: ~7,972 ft (2,430 m)
We typically design itineraries to begin in the Sacred Valley to acclimate gradually before visiting Cusco and Machu Picchu. Staying hydrated, avoiding heavy meals on arrival, and speaking with your doctor about preventive medication are common best practices. Our team monitors your comfort every step of the way.
Absolutely. SA Expeditions’ Machu Picchu private tours provide:
Tailor-made pacing for photos, families, and seniors
Crowd-avoidance strategies and flexible routing
Expert local guides who enhance understanding of Inca history and architecture
Seamless logistics, premium trains, hand-picked hotels
24/7 in-country support throughout Peru
With everything fully organized, you experience one of the world’s greatest wonders stress-free. Start customizing one of our best private Machu Picchu tours with a Destination Expert.
Yes. Families with children 8+ tend to enjoy the experience most, though itineraries can be adapted for younger adventurers. Seniors – including many in their 60s and 70s – visit comfortably with private pacing, rest schedules, and strategic acclimatization nights. We customize the route to your mobility, interests, and family dynamic.
→ Read more about planning a trip to Machu Picchu with your family.
Circuit 2A offers classic postcard-style angles and sweeping terraces, ideal for photography. Circuit 2B offers similar viewpoints with fewer crowds, making it great for a more relaxed experience. We recommend based on time of day, agility, and interest level.
Premium trains depart from Cusco, Poroy, and Ollantaytambo, offering panoramic windows, snacks, and lounge-style carriages. We organize all rail tickets, transfers, and boarding assistance to streamline your journey.
Bring breathable layers, sunscreen, bug repellent, rain protection, and sturdy walking shoes. There is a limited bag-size restriction inside the citadel. For peace of mind, SA Expeditions securely stores larger bags at your Cusco hotel.
→ Check out our full packing guide.
Adventurous travelers can explore:
Multi-day Qhapaq Ñan (Great Inca Trail) expeditions such as Huanuco Pampa
Great Inca Trail day hikes with preserved Inca pathways and fortress viewpoints We integrate these into custom itineraries for travelers looking beyond the standard circuits.
Yes. The Salkantay Trek is scenic, rugged, and less crowded, culminating near Machu Picchu. It’s ideal when Inca Trail permits are unavailable or if you prefer a more varied landscape.
Our fully organized trekking experiences include:
Professional, licensed guides
Porter support
Quality tents and sleeping bags
Meals and purified water
Briefings and safety equipment You focus on the journey – we handle everything.
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