Cusco · Machu Picchu · Peru

Cusco and Machu Picchu Tours with a Local Team

Q: How should I acclimatize to avoid altitude sickness?

Cusco is located at around 3,400 meters above sea level, so we recommend spending at least 48 hours acclimatizing before doing any demanding hike.During your first days, stay well hydrated, eat light meals, avoid alcohol, and take things slowly while your body adjusts to the altitude.

Q: What is the best time of year to visit Peru for tours and trekking?

The dry season, from May to October, is generally the best time for trekking, outdoor activities, and photography, with clearer skies and much less rainfall.The rainy season runs from November to April. The Inca Trail is closed throughout February for maintenance, although Machu Picchu remains accessible by train.

We're a local tour operator in Cusco. Day tours, treks and Machu Picchu trips, planned around you by people who know these mountains.

About Us

Your Expert Agency for Machu Picchu and Trekking

Welcome to Peruvian Paths & Adventures! We are a brand-new trekking company based in Cusco, specializing in the world-famous Inca Trail and many other treks in the region. With over 8 years of experience in the Peruvian tourism industry, our team is second to none, and we go above and beyond to make your trip worthwhile and memorable.

Our company was founded to guide you on these incredible treks and share the beloved city of Cusco with you, as well as to help improve the lives of locals through our Tambohuaylla social project. We work closely with expert male and female guides and porters to ensure equality and to make sure you get the true Peruvian experience.

Meet our team

Peruvian Paths and Adventures group with their guide at Machu Picchu

Tripadvisor 5.0 78 reviews

Google 5.0 40 reviews

Explore Cusco

The Best Tours in Cusco

Explore the best of Cusco in a single day. From the Maras salt mines and the Moray terraces to the Sacred Valley and the turquoise Humantay Lake, each tour is led by our local guides and shows you a different side of the Andes.

City Tour Cusco – Half Day

The Cusco City Tour is a half-day tour exploring the old town and four nearby ruins like Sacsayhuaman. It helps you adapt to high altitude while learning of Inca and colonial history, visiting key temples, and also seeing fine art at the Cathedral.

Tour Chinchero Maras Moray & Salt Miness – Half Day

This fine Sacred Valley tour visits Chinchero, Moray, and Maras. See ancient Inca farming labs used for crops and walk by thousands of old salt pans open since pre-Inca days, offering a unique look at rich local history and also very beautiful views.

To South Valley – Half Day

This Cusco tour shows unique Inca water works, Wari ruins, and old towns. See fine Tipon canals, walk Pikillacta stone roads, and visit the grand church in Andahuaylillas, famed as a local Sistine Chapel, before you also taste some good hot fried pork.

Classic Sacred Valley – Full Day

Visit the warm Sacred Valley to see rich towns like Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero. Enjoy fine crafts, local textiles, and living Inca art. This deep zone has the best daily climate, rural charm, and top ruins for a great tour near Cusco town.

Super Sacred Valley Vip Tour – Full Day

This great VIP one day tour shows the five main sites of the Sacred Valley. See old ruins in Pisac and Ollantaytambo, visit Maras salt ponds, view Moray crop labs, and also enjoy nice Chinchero crafts while seeing the most beautiful local landscape.

Humantay Lake Trek- Full Day

This top day hike takes you high into the grand mountains to see a beautiful alpine landscape. Walk up to this sacred turquoise lagoon at high altitude, learn of unique Inca mythology, and enjoy the snow-capped views around Cusco on a great trek.

Explore Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu Tours from Cusco

Discover the best ways to visit Machu Picchu. From a full-day trip on the Vistadome Observatory train to the 2-day Short Inca Trail and the 4-day Classic Inca Trail, every tour is led by our local guides.

Machu Picchu Express Expeditions – Full Day

This full day express tour takes you to visit the magical wonder of Machu Picchu in a single day. Ride a scenic train through beautiful landscapes and enjoy expert service with everything fully organized so you can truly relax and feel the magic.

Machu Picchu Express Vistadome Observatory – Full Day

This full day tour takes you to Machu Picchu on the fine Vistadome Observatory train. Enjoy panoramic cars, soft music, and relaxation built for limited time. Our expert team plans all details to give you a truly unique and magical Inca day experience.

Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu – 1N / 2D

This grand two day tour takes you along the Short Inca Trail from Km 104. Hike past Chachabamba and beautiful Wiñay Wayna ruins to the iconic Sun Gate for breathtaking views of Machu Picchu, overnight in Aguas Calientes, then enjoy your detailed tour.

Classic Inca Trail To Machu Picchu – 3N / 4D

This classic four day Inca Trail trek takes you past old ruins and a challenging high pass. Hike through scenic landscapes to reach the iconic Sun Gate for your first view of Machu Picchu, followed by a great guided Inca citadel tour back.

Salkantay Trek To Machu Picchu – 4N / 5D

This fine five day Salkantay trek takes you past Humantay Lake and up a high mountain pass. Walk through deep cloud forests, try local coffee, view Machu Picchu from Llaqtapata, and also enjoy a grand guided tour of the old classic Inca citadel.

Lares Trek To Machu Picchu – 3N / 4D

This fine four day Lares trek takes you past alpine lakes and over a rugged mountain pass. Meet local communities, try local weaving, relax in hot springs, visit old Ancasmarka ruins, and also enjoy a great guided tour of the beautiful Machu Picchu.

Choose Us

Why Choose Us?

8 years of excellence and experience in Peru travel.

Tailor-made trips

Your adventure, your style. Itineraries built around the trip you have in mind.

Best value for money

Some of the best prices on the market, backed by an excellent reputation. Compare, choose, enjoy and recommend.

Expert tour guides

Our certified guides keep every tour safe, informative and fun.

Quality equipment

Gear you can trust, for a safe and smooth experience.

Safety and security

Your peace of mind comes first. Certified safety protocols for a worry-free trip.

Local food, cooked by pros

Professional chefs cook authentic dishes with fresh ingredients from regional producers.

Community social project

Travel with purpose and support local initiatives that help our communities grow.

24/7 support

In English and Spanish, before, during and after your trip, by phone, WhatsApp or email.

Our numbers

Our Cusco Tours in Numbers

8
Years of experience
500+
Happy travelers
40+
Destinations
20+
Countries

Reviews

What our travelers say

Real reviews from people who traveled with us.

Tripadvisor5.078 reviews

Google5.040 reviews

    
 
 
       Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Nitin B 
 
 
 
 Verified Best Tour Agency for Lima
My family's private Peru trip was a dream come true, thanks to our Guide Edy who also is Owner/operator of Peruvian Paths And Adventures . From the moment we landed in Lima, every transfer was impeccably timed and stress-free. Edy is not just a guide; he is a master storyteller who brought the ruins of Cusco ,Machu Picchu,Sacred Valley to life with deep historical insight and humor. We especially appreciated how they checked in on our comfort during the high-altitude portions of the trip. We were blown away by the level of detail and passion , he brought to every site. Instead of just reciting dates, Edy shared stories about the Inca culture that made us feel connected to the land. The agency’s organization was 'A1'—everything from the hotels to the private transport exceeded our expectations. They truly go the extra mile to ensure an unforgettable experience. Edy took all the stress out of navigating [Lima ,Cusco, sacred valley , Machu Picchu], allowing us to just soak in the beauty. Highly recommend to anyone visiting Peru! If you want a worry-free, authentic Peruvian adventure, look no further!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Michele F 
 
 
 
 Verified You need Edy as your guide!
Edy was THE BEST tour guide I have ever had! The care and consideration he took to make sure we felt comfortable and enjoyed our trip was unmatched! He went above and beyond! He even got to our hotel early to make sure we knew where to go on a day we weren’t touring with him. He’s fun, energetic, and super knowledgeable. Wouldn’t recommend anyone more than him!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Elana R 
 
 
 
 Verified Incredible trip!!
Edy was an incredible guide during our time in Peru. He was kind, patient, and attentive, and really went above and beyond to make sure all of our needs were taken care of. My family had used him when they visited Peru, and when I went back a year later with a friend, we booked with him again without hesitation. Everything was so well organized, easy, and stress-free—we truly felt safe and taken care of the entire trip. It was absolutely worth it, and we had the best vacation together. I would highly recommend Edy to anyone visiting Peru!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   William V 
 
 
 
 Verified Inca trail
Eddy and his team helped me with everything so I could do the Inca trail. On the evening before they went to visit my hostel and explained me in detail all I need to know about the Inca trail. I even got a beautiful shirt with the Inca trail on as a souvenir/gift. The hiking group was very mixed and great group. I have massive respect for all the porters/cooks and guides on the team. The Inca trail has a very big history and very beautiful Inca constructions. The nature is amazing . On my return to Cusco, Edy offered me a car ride to the hostel to pick up my belongings and drove me to the airport. It really made it practical and safe for me. Thx Edy for all the help.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Alicia J 
 
 
 
 Verified An amazing Lares Trek
I recently went on a hiking/yoga with Peruvian Path and Adventures and it was an amazing experience. The Lares Trek was beautiful, peaceful and had the perfect amount of challenging components. It was amazing to walk through the villages and not be around tons of people. Edy, Juan and the rest of the team were helpful in so many ways. I always felt safe and secure. Peace. The cooking was delicious. Our camping spots were beautiful.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Sheri W 
 
 
 
 Verified Top Notch for all Your Peruvian Sightseeing Needs!
This was my first trip to Cusco Peru, and Edy & his team went above and beyond to ensure everyone’s experience was unforgettable! Having traveled to Cusco with a yoga retreat group, Edy and team were prepared for all circumstances including unexpected weather and dietary restrictions. We hiked and camped the Lares trek, explored ancient ruins, visited a local school to provide much needed supplies, did an Incan ceremony at our summit (14,700ft!), visited Machu Picchu & Huayna Picchu, and learned SO much about the beautiful people and culture of Peru. This is a trip that I will never forget and will always hold near and dear to my heart. I highly recommend Peruvian Paths & Adventures for your next trip to Cusco and the surrounding areas!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Jillian D 
 
 
 
 Verified A True Peruvian Experience!!
Edy is simply amazing!! I was on a yoga retreat that used Edy for the Lares Trek and Machu Picchu and they truly went above and beyond. Many on the group had dietary restrictions and they accommodated everyone. They easily adapted to different weather situations along the trek and made sure everyone was safe. I highly recommend using Edy for all your Peruvian adventures. His personality, knowledge, and enthusiasm is what made our trip and Peruvian experience amazing. My partner and I will definitely be back to Peru and use Edy and his team for our next adventure!!!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Brenda 
 
 
 
 Verified Choose a local
Was so accommodating. I would give him a six star review. The day with his family at the very end was amazing and being in the field and seeing their homes. Our guide for the Inca trail had over 35 years of experience. The food was gourmet. And they carried & set up your tents.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Francisco M 
 
 
 
 Verified Experiencia unica
Muy recomendable confiar en Edy para organizar cualquier viaje a Cuzco, Machu Picchu o Peru. Tuvimos una experiencia muy buena en organizacion y en el viaje. Volveremos pronto a verte!!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Juliana M 
 
 
 
 Verified Esplêndido atendimento!
A viagem foi incrível do início ao fim graças a organização da Peruvian Paths, em especial a Dina e Edy e toda equipe, são pessoas incríveis, acolhedoras e muito profissionais, o melhor do Peru são os peruanos. Guardamos com carinho cada momento vivido e queremos voltar. Parabéns a todos, foram dias incríveis!

    
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Elena Abbati 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. El tour privado estuvo excelente, con lugares hermosos y mucho por aprender. El guía y el conductor fueron unos profesionales increíbles. ¡Gracias!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Damaris Kofmehl 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Wow, es war einfach fantastisch! Die ganze Organisation mit Peruvian Paths and Adventures hat so wunderbar geklappt, selbst, als Dinge schiefliefen (Gepäck vom Flugzeug verloren, Zug Verspätung, Pass voller Schnee), hat das Team sich immer so liebevoll und hilfsbereit darum gekümmert. Ich kann die Organisation einfach jedem empfehlen. Diese Reise wird mir für immer in Erinnerung bleiben! Tausend Dank für alles und gäbe es 10 Sterne, hätte ich sie sofort vergeben! Einfach eine geniale Organisation!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Tania Dickson-Humphries 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had an absolutely amazing experience in Peru with Edy and Peruvian Paths and Adventures. From the beginning, Edy took care of every detail and planned the order of our trip perfectly. We spent time exploring Cusco and the surrounding area first, which allowed us to gradually acclimate to the altitude before beginning the Salkantay Trek. By the time we started trekking, we felt well prepared and acclimated.

Unfortunately, the weather had other plans! We made it almost to the Salkantay Pass when heavy snow made it unsafe to continue, and we had to turn around. Edy, Francisco, and the team handled the situation incredibly well. They quickly reorganized our itinerary and rerouted us so that we were able to start the Inca Trail from the very beginning and complete the entire trail to Machu Picchu. What could have been a huge disappointment turned into an incredible adventure.

Our guide, Francisco, was fantastic—knowledgeable, kind, patient, and genuinely fun to spend time with. We always felt safe with him, especially when the weather changed our plans. His knowledge of Peru, the mountains, local culture, and Inca history added so much to our experience.

Chef Julian was amazing. We couldn’t believe the meals he was able to prepare while we were trekking, and we looked forward to them every day. Our porters were equally wonderful and worked incredibly hard to make our trek possible and comfortable. We have tremendous respect and appreciation for all of them.

We also have to mention José Luis, our driver. Of all the drivers we had during our time in Peru, he was by far the safest and best. We always felt completely comfortable with him, even on the mountain roads, and really appreciated the care he took with us.

Peru is spectacular, but it was the people who made this trip truly special. We felt genuinely cared for by Edy, Francisco, Julian, José Luis, and the entire team. Their ability to adapt when things didn’t go according to plan says so much about them.

This truly was a trip of a lifetime, and we would recommend Peruvian Paths and Adventures without hesitation.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Schirlei Poliana Cruz 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Muito boa os passeios e suporte equipe de guia
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Luis Lozano Caldas 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Hello, I used Peruvian Paths and Adventures for my visit to Cusco and Machu Picchu, and that decision turned my trip into a wonderful adventure. Thanks to the team and to my guide, Johan Sikos, who personalized my visit.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Belén Ercole 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excelente la experiencia. Estuvimos una semana en Perú en varias ciudades, ellos se encargaron de los traslados y todas las excursiones. Siempre a horario, con muy buena predisposición, los vehículos limpios y en buen estado. A cada consulta nos respondían rápido y con la información precisa. Una empresa super recomendable.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Gina Grünke 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Wir hatten eine fantastische Zeit auf dem 4-tägigen Salkantay Trek mit unserem Guide Johan! Von Anfang bis Ende war alles perfekt organisiert, sodass wir die Tour in vollen Zügen genießen konnten.

Johan hat uns unterwegs viel Spannendes über die Geschichte, die Kultur und die Region erzählt und den Trek dadurch noch interessanter gemacht. Besonders geschätzt haben wir, dass er jederzeit unser individuelles Lauftempo respektiert hat und wir uns nie unter Druck gesetzt gefühlt haben. Außerdem hatten wir jede Menge Spaß zusammen und haben auf dem Weg viel gelacht.

Vielen Dank an Johan und das gesamte Team für dieses unvergessliche Erlebnis!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Vanesa Almendras 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excelente estadía, muy bien organizado todo todo todo! Súper recomendable, atentos a toda inquietud, muchas gracias Edy y a su equipo! Saludos desde Argentina, Tierra del Fuego, Ushuaia.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Edy Huaman Tumpay 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had great experince on the Inca trail to Machupicchu
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   sheetal davda 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The best time ever . Eddy  was great tour guide

Social Project

Tambohuaylla Social Project

At Peruvian Paths & Adventures, we value our team and the land we explore. With every trek, we donate $10 to support local communities in education, healthcare, and basic needs. Our current focus is improving the Tambohuaylla school, which lacks water, bathrooms, and supplies. We also provide shoes, food, and scholarships for children to ensure a better future. Located 4 hours east of Cusco at 3800m altitude, life here is tough, but together, we can make a difference.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to the most common questions about our tours, treks, bookings, and travel in Peru.

How far in advance should I book the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu?

For the Classic Inca Trail, whether you choose the 4-day or 2-day option, we recommend booking 4 to 6 months in advance. Daily permits are limited and often sell out quickly.

For Machu Picchu entrance tickets, train journeys, and mountain routes such as Huayna Picchu, it is best to book at least 1 to 2 months ahead, especially during the high season.

Can I hike the Inca Trail on my own without a tour operator or guide?

No. Independent access to the Inca Trail is not permitted. Travelers must enter with an authorized tour operator, an accredited professional guide, and the required support team and permits.

How difficult are the tours and treks, and what level of fitness do I need?

Classic tours such as the Sacred Valley and Cusco City Tour require only light physical effort.

Day trips such as Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain, as well as multi-day treks like Salkantay and the Inca Trail, are more demanding and require a moderate to good level of fitness. We recommend doing regular walking and some cardiovascular training before your trip.

How should I acclimatize to avoid altitude sickness?

Cusco is located at around 3,400 meters above sea level, so we recommend spending at least 48 hours acclimatizing before doing any demanding hike.

During your first days, stay well hydrated, eat light meals, avoid alcohol, and take things slowly while your body adjusts to the altitude.

What safety and first-aid measures do you provide during your tours?

Our guides are trained in wilderness first aid, and for high-altitude tours and camping trips we carry essential safety equipment such as a first-aid kit, pulse oximeter, and medical oxygen.

We also follow emergency and evacuation procedures in case a traveler develops severe symptoms of altitude sickness or another medical issue.

Do you offer vegetarian, vegan, or special dietary options?

Yes. Our trekking cooks can prepare fresh, nutritious meals for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, lactose-free, and other special dietary requirements.

If you have any allergies or food restrictions, please let us know when you make your booking so we can plan your meals in advance.

What is the best time of year to visit Peru for tours and trekking?

The dry season, from May to October, is generally the best time for trekking, outdoor activities, and photography, with clearer skies and much less rainfall.

The rainy season runs from November to April. The Inca Trail is closed throughout February for maintenance, although Machu Picchu remains accessible by train.

What is usually included in a tour or trekking package with Peruvian Paths and Adventures?

Our services generally include hotel pickup in Cusco, authorized tourist transportation, a certified bilingual guide in English and Spanish, and entrance tickets to the main archaeological sites and natural attractions included in the itinerary.

For multi-day treks, the service may also include camping equipment, sleeping mats, dining tents, a professional cook, porters or muleteers, and train or bus tickets depending on the route.

What documents do I need to book and join the tours?

You will need to provide a clear copy of your valid passport. Travelers from some Andean Community countries may also be able to use their national ID.

The document used when your tickets are issued must be the same original document you present at train stations, bus checkpoints, and entrance controls for Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail.

Do you offer tour packages that include other destinations in Peru?

Yes. We can arrange multi-destination itineraries that combine Cusco and Machu Picchu with other highlights of Peru, including Lima, the Nazca Lines, Paracas, the Colca Canyon in Arequipa and Lake Titicaca in Puno.

See our Peru tour packages or contact us to plan a custom trip.

PUNO

AREQUIPA

LIMA

NAZCA

THE MAGIC OF CUSCO

TOURS AVAILABLE

EXPEDITIONS TO THE WONDER

TOURS AVAILABLE

COMPREHENSIVE ANDEAN ADVENTURE EXPEDITIONS

TOURS AVAILABLE

LEGENDARY JOURNEYS THROUGH PERU

TOURS AVAILABLE

PERU ICONIC DESTINATIONS

TOURS AVAILABLE

PUNO

AREQUIPA

LIMA

NAZCA

Cusco and Machu Picchu Tours with a Local Team

Your Expert Agency for Machu Picchu and Trekking

The Best Tours in Cusco

Machu Picchu Tours from Cusco

Why Choose Us?

Tailor-made trips

Best value for money

Expert tour guides

Quality equipment

Safety and security

Local food, cooked by pros

Community social project

24/7 support

Our Cusco Tours in Numbers

What our travelers say

Tambohuaylla Social Project

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance should I book the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu?

Can I hike the Inca Trail on my own without a tour operator or guide?

How difficult are the tours and treks, and what level of fitness do I need?

How should I acclimatize to avoid altitude sickness?

What safety and first-aid measures do you provide during your tours?

Do you offer vegetarian, vegan, or special dietary options?

What is the best time of year to visit Peru for tours and trekking?

What is usually included in a tour or trekking package with Peruvian Paths and Adventures?

What documents do I need to book and join the tours?

Do you offer tour packages that include other destinations in Peru?