Excursion Overland experience: machu picchu, the sacred valley & cusco tour at Manta

Cruise line: Silversea
Difficulty:

Unveil the Mysteries of Machu Picchu and the Incan Empire

Embark on an unforgettable 5-day journey from Manta to the breathtaking landscapes of Peru, where you’ll explore the rich cultural heritage of the Sacred Valley, the historical city of Cusco, and the majestic Machu Picchu. Beginning with a transfer from Manta to Guayaquil and an overnight stay in Lima, your adventure continues with a flight to Cusco. After a delicious lunch, delve into the region’s fascinating history with visits to Qoricancha, the Inca Temple of the Sun, and the beautiful Cusco Cathedral. You’ll also experience the stunning Sacred Valley, with tours of the picturesque Chinchero, the agricultural terraces of Maras, and the circular ruins of Moray.

On Day 4, the highlight of the tour awaits as you board the luxurious Hiram Bingham train to Aguas Calientes, followed by a guided exploration of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Wander through the ancient citadel set high in the Andean mountains, surrounded by stunning natural beauty. After an indulgent tea at Sanctuary Lodge, return to Cusco by train, where you’ll spend your final night before flying back to Lima and rejoining your ship in Callao. This extraordinary adventure blends ancient history, captivating landscapes, and modern comforts for an experience you will never forget.

04MIDMTA-F: Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley & Cusco

Duration: 5 days / 4 nights

Departure: Manta

Rejoin ship: Callao

Reserve by: at least 90 days prior to sailing

This Overland Experience is only available for in-transit guests continuing on voyage DA260119019 and not disembarking in Callao on January 19, 2026.

IMPORTANT NOTE

This Overland Experience requires advance booking through Silversea Reservations no later than 90 days before the sail date. Tickets are limited, and participation cannot be guaranteed for guests booking late. A minimum number of participants is required, and if not met, Silversea reserves the right to modify or cancel the programme. Cancellation fees apply 90–0 days prior to the initial sailing date: 100% of the fare is due.

Payment in full is due at time of final payment. Bookings made within 120 days of sailing require full payment within seven days of booking or sooner, as specified by Silversea.

 VISA INFORMATION

Please consult your travel professional regarding visa requirements for Peru and Ecuador. Obtaining the necessary visas is the responsibility of each guest before cruising.

 LOCAL CURRENCY

The local currency in Peru is the Peruvian Sol, but U.S. Dollars are widely accepted. The local currency in Ecuador is the United States Dollar (USD), which is used for most transactions across the country. ATMs and credit card services are available in most locations.

DAY ONE – Thursday, January 15, 2026 – Manta / Guayaquil / Lima
After disembarking the ship in Manta, you’ll begin your journey with a scenic transfer to Guayaquil Airport, a drive of approximately 4 hours. Upon arrival, check in for your scheduled flight to Lima, departing in the evening. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes, bringing you to the Peruvian capital. After landing at Lima’s airport, you’ll transfer to the Costa del Sol Airport Hotel for an overnight stay. The hotel provides an ideal setting to relax and rest before your exciting explorations in the days ahead.

Meals for the remainder of your day are on your own.

Overnight at Costa del Sol Airport Hotel – Lima.

 

DAY TWO – Friday, January 16, 2026 – Lima / Cusco / Sacred Valley
Following an early breakfast at the hotel, meet your tour representative for assistance as you transfer to the airport. After your check-in, board your morning flight to Cusco, which takes approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by your local guide and proceed to a nearby restaurant for a delicious lunch.

In the afternoon, embark on a guided city tour of Cusco, beginning with a visit to the majestic Cusco Cathedral, a colonial masterpiece built upon the site of an Incan palace. Next, explore the fascinating Koricancha, once the Temple of the Sun, now home to the Dominican Convent of Santo Domingo. The exceptional Incan stonework, including the curved walls and mortar-less masonry, will leave you in awe.

In the late afternoon, transfer to your hotel in the Sacred Valley, where you’ll enjoy a relaxing dinner and the tranquil surroundings of your accommodations.

Overnight at Tambo del Inka Hotel – Sacred Valley.

 

DAY THREE – Saturday, January 17, 2026 – Sacred Valley Tour
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a full-day excursion through the Sacred Valley. Your first stop will be the ancient village of Chinchero, famous for its traditional weaving techniques and stunning panoramic views of the valley. Continue to the unique agricultural terraces of Moray, believed to have been used as an Incan agricultural laboratory, and the salt mines of Maras, where centuries-old salt ponds still operate today.

Enjoy a flavorful lunch at a local restaurant, offering an opportunity to savor traditional Peruvian dishes. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon to relax before dinner, which will be accompanied by a delightful local show showcasing the region’s vibrant culture.

Overnight at Tambo del Inka Hotel – Sacred Valley.

 

DAY FOUR – Sunday, January 18, 2026 – Sacred Valley / Cusco / Machu Picchu
After an early wake-up call, begin the day with a buffet breakfast at the hotel. You’ll then transfer to the Rio Sagrado train station, where you’ll board the luxurious Hiram Bingham train, bound for the breathtaking site of Machu Picchu. Enjoy a gourmet brunch on board while taking in the spectacular views of the Andean mountains.

Upon arrival at Aguas Calientes, a bus will take you to the gates of Machu Picchu, one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world. Your guided tour will cover the Incas’ remarkable engineering feats, including their advanced agricultural terraces, solar clock, and the perfectly fitted stones of the temples, baths, and other structures.

Following your visit, enjoy a delightful tea time at the Sanctuary Lodge (optional) before boarding the bus back down to the village. Reboard the Hiram Bingham train for a scenic return to Rio Sagrado, where a delicious dinner awaits on board.

Arriving back in the Sacred Valley, you’ll transfer to your hotel for a restful overnight stay.

Overnight at Palacio del Inka Hotel – Cusco.

 

DAY FIVE – Monday, January 19, 2026 – Cusco / Lima / Callao
After breakfast at your hotel, check out and transfer to Cusco’s airport for your return flight to Lima. Upon arrival in Lima, you’ll have time to explore the city or shop for souvenirs before transferring to the Callao Pier, where you’ll re-embark the ship to continue your journey.

Important Notes:
This Overland Experience requires extensive walking over uneven, rocky, slippery, and natural surfaces with inclines. Guests will need to navigate steps when boarding coaches, buses, trains, and at the various sites. The program is not suitable for pregnant guests, those with back or neck issues, heart or respiratory conditions, motion sickness, a fear of heights, limited mobility, or those using a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing made of quick-drying cotton, non-slip, closed-toe walking shoes or sneakers, and bring sun protection, sunglasses with a strap, insect repellent, a light sweater or windbreaker for mornings and evenings, rain gear, a backpack, camera, a plastic bag for keeping cameras dry, medications, binoculars, and local currency for purchases. Proper attire is required to enter religious sites, and shorts or bare shoulders are not permitted. Guests must carry their passports and ship's ID at all times. The minimum age for alcohol service is 18.

Please note: The tour itinerary may vary.

Baggage Policy:
Airlines typically allow one checked bag per person, weighing up to 50 pounds (approximately 23 kilograms). Hand luggage cannot exceed 17 pounds (approximately 8 kilograms), and smaller aircraft may be used. Additional checked bags can be arranged at the service desk, with a fee of $30 for the first extra bag. Fees increase for additional bags.

 

Programme Inclusions:

  • One-night stay at the Costa del Sol Airport Hotel, Lima
  • Two-night stay at Tambo del Inka Hotel, Sacred Valley
  • One-night stay at Palacio del Inka Hotel, Cusco
  • Scheduled flights: Guayaquil/Lima/Cusco/Lima (business class available upon request, additional charge, subject to availability)
  • Round-trip train ride aboard the Hiram Bingham from Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu, including one brunch and one dinner
  • Four breakfasts, three lunches, and three dinners
  • All sightseeing, including tours of Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Cusco
  • Transfers between hotels, train stations, and airports as outlined in the itinerary
  • Tour guide assistance throughout the trip

Not Included:

  • Any meals and drinks not specified above
  • Gratuities to drivers and tour guides
  • Laundry, telephone calls, cancellation insurance, and other personal items
  • Camera fees (if applicable at any venues)
  • Costs for upgrades or additional services (i.e., Business-Class flights, room upgrades)
  • Personal expenses or shopping stops

Note