Machu Picchu Small Group Tours
Ever fancied combining Lima's historic streets with high-altitude Cusco treks? Skilled chefs turn mountain camp cooking into something special, while select tours add Cusco's Chocomuseo for chocolate making, Chinchero weaving sessions and authentic pachamanca feasts. The 8-day combos linking Machu Picchu with Amazon explorations let naturalist guides help you spot macaws, monkeys and secretive nocturnal creatures.
10 best Machu Picchu small group tours
Compiled by
MelissaMachu Picchu travel expert at TourRadar
- 5/4 Salkantay Hike (Small Group Trek)
- 10/09 Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu & Tambopata National Reserve Jungle (Small Group)
- Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 days
- Explore INCA Adventures - (Lima and Cusco) with Domestic Flights
- Machu Picchu Adventure
- 03 Day Inca Jungle Trail to Machu Picchu - Group service
- 8/7 Christmas Machu Picchu Peru (Small Group)
- Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 3 Days 2 nights
- Cachicata Quarry Trail Trek to Machu Picchu 4 days 3 nights
- Classic Machu Picchu Tour 4 Days: Cusco + Sacred Valley
Groups of 2-12 trekkers head through the Salkantay pass reaching 4,650m elevation, with bilingual guides explaining Incan history at Silcakancha and traditional Inca bridges near La Playa village during this 5-day adventure. The small group shares campfire meals of typical Peruvian dishes at Colpa Bamba and Lluscamay, while mules transport the shared camping equipment between sites. A 2-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu wraps up the trek, where the intimate group size allows detailed explanations at each temple and terrace, then free time to wander the UNESCO site independently.
Duration 5 days Destinations Cusco, Mollepata, Santa Teresa, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu Age Range Ages 8+ Group Size Max Group Size 12 Group Type Group Operator ILE Tours From
- US$724
Groups of 8-15 visitors tour Machu Picchu together. The intimate setting allows detailed guidance through Temple of the Sun and Room of Three Windows, plus time for individual exploration and prime sunrise viewing spots.
Duration 10 days Destinations Lima, Tambopata National Reserve, Puerto Maldonado, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu Age Range Ages 8+ Operated in English, Portuguese, Spanish Group Size Max Group Size 10 Group Type GroupPersonalized Operator ILE Tours From
- US$2,190
Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 days
60 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Fantastic service on our trip to Machu Picchu, it was arranged excellently and we are overwhelmed with their hospitality.”
Peter, traveled in June
Duration 4 days Destinations Cusco, Ollantaytambo, Wayllabamba, Pacaymayo Valley, Machu Picchu, Aguas Calientes Age Range Ages 8+ Operated in English, Spanish Group Size Max Group Size 10 Group Type GroupPersonalized Operator Haku Travel From
- US$790
Intimate groups enjoy 2-hour guided tours of Machu Picchu citadel. Travelers (average age 38) receive focused attention climbing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. Observatory train upgrades offer panoramic views.
Duration 7 days Destinations Lima, Paracas, Ica, Cusco, Moray, Maras, Chinchero, Ollantaytambo, Aguas Calientes, Machu PicchuSee all destinations Age Range Ages 10+ Operated in English, German, French, Spanish Group Size Max Group Size 12 Group Type GroupPersonalized Operator Jill Travel From
- US$3,574
Machu Picchu Adventure
85 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“His knowledge on the land, culture, history is phenomenal and was greatly appreciated.”
Rita, traveled in May
Duration 8 days Destinations Lima, Cusco, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu Age Range Ages 12+ Group Size Max Group Size 16 Group Type Group Operator G Adventures From $1,649
17% Off- US$1,369You save $280
03 Day Inca Jungle Trail to Machu Picchu - Group service
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“The activities were all great and very well organised along with the travel between the different locations.”
Olukayode, traveled in April
Limited to 8 travelers, groups receive dedicated attention during the 2-hour Machu Picchu guided tour. Larger parties include an assistant guide, ensuring detailed coverage of the ancient citadel's architecture and history while maintaining intimate exploration dynamics.
Duration 3 days Destinations Cusco, Ollantaytambo, Abra Malaga Mountain, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu Age Range Ages 12+ Operated in English, Spanish Group Size Max Group Size 10 Group Type Group Operator Inkayni Peru Tours From
17% Off- US$599
The private Machu Picchu citadel tour offers 2-hour expert commentary plus free exploration time. Climb Huayna Picchu if desired. Intimate setting guarantees personal attention while visiting the Inca Bridge and East Gate trails.
Duration 9 days Destinations Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Chinese, Russian Group Size Max Group Size 10 Group Type GroupPersonalized Operator ILE Tours From
17% Off- US$2,180
Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 3 Days 2 nights
5 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We had a wonderful tour. Overall, they did a great job.”
Cristina, traveled in July
Duration 3 days Destinations Cusco, Lamay, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu Age Range Ages 12+ Operated in English, Spanish Group Size Max Group Size 16 Group Type GroupPersonalized Operator TreXperience From
17% Off- US$690
Cachicata Quarry Trail Trek to Machu Picchu 4 days 3 nights
5 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The meals were amazing and we were never hungry- there was ample hot food provided including multiple courses that differed every day.”
Emma, traveled in July
One guide leads parties under 8 and two guides accompany larger groups. This arrangement provides personal attention during Machu Picchu Mountain's ascent and allows time for detailed exploration of the Sun Gate and Inca Bridge.
Duration 4 days Destinations Cusco, Ollantaytambo, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, Spanish Group Size Max Group Size 16 Group Type GroupPersonalized Operator TreXperience From
17% Off- US$790
Classic Machu Picchu Tour 4 Days: Cusco + Sacred Valley
10 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“This trek surpassed them all. Everything from the excellent food, to the awesome team of porters, was top notch.”
Duration 4 days Destinations Cusco, Saqsaywaman, Pisac, Moray, Maras, Ollantaytambo, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, Spanish Group Size Max Group Size 16 Group Type GroupPersonalized Operator TreXperience From
17% Off- US$1,200
Reviews of Small Group tours to Machu Picchu
Lifetime Experience hiking with Jose. We were only 4 people in our group and it was perfect to enjoy as much as possible every day on this trek. Jose made really well his job managing all concerning to the camping site, food, trekking team and great motivation for all of us to don't give up on the 2nd day the most challenging day. Victoriano our chef he was an excellent person who prepared incredible food and varied even for someone in the group who was vegan person. The camping gear were pretty good, designed for this kind of expeditions, good tents, air mattresses which is included in your packages, (not as other companies that you need to pay extra for it) dinning tent was big enough for all of us and the sleeping bag very comfortable. Vidal Expeditions team worked very well to set up our tents, prepare the food, and always there were smiling. This was great motivation for us even carrying many kilos on their back, they taught that nothing is impossible if you focus on it. Jose were really patient guide, always telling us the best words to keep pushing our body and get our goals, his knowledge about leading groups are incredible, history and all our quistiones were answered. Vidal Expeditions did great job organizing every details of this trip, and we made the right decision by choosing them for our journey in Peru. Definitely if we are going back to Peru we will take their service again, and also we will recommend to everyone go with them, I guarantee that you will have incredible experience!!
Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu
- Trek & Climb: Nevado Qampa - 3 Days
James is one of the most carrying and understanding tour provider you would have. I am going to break this review down into mutliple aspects so it would help you pick James and his company without a doubt. The Trek: The trek to Qampa was planned for 2 days with a camping night at base camp. I was foolish enough to think that I would be acclimated to the elevation after a day at Cusco. As i am from Los Angeles (a city at sea level), the hike to base camp proved to be too much for me and i got sick with elevation sickness. James and his team gave me ample opportunity to carry on, took care of me when i got sick (provided meds, oxygen tank and such) and advised me accurately regarding my health. Sadly, I had to turn around to go down in elevation to take care of my health but James and his team did everything to take care of me throughout the process. The hike to Qampa and base camp was immensely beautiful. All the tools and supplies (food and suck) was provided and carried by the team. I would highly recommend this trek and I myself will be coming back to achieve this summit. Cusco and everything else: James picked me up from the airport on my first day and took care of most of the logistics regarding booking a hotel and such. Monetarily, everything provided by James and team was luxurious and economical enough to beat the prices of other facilities in Cusco. James helped me with touring the city and provided a personal touch that made me feel valued and cared for. He went above and beyond to make sure that my trip was stress free especially the fact that I dont speak spanish. TL:DR - If you want an adventurous, fun and safe trip...book James and his team. They will do everything to make sure you get the most out of your trip and ensure your safety at each point.
Andean Path Travel provides excellent and quality trekking service. Services like: Short Inca trail to Machu Picchu 2 days Classic Inca trail to Machu Picchu 4 days Ausangat trek 5 days Lares trek 4 days Nice
Sacred Valley & Short Inca Trail Hike 3 Days
What our customers ask about Machu Picchu Small Group Tours
How far in advance should I book a small group tour to Machu Picchu Mountain?
Book your small group tour 6-8 months ahead especially for travel between June and August. The limited Inca Trail permits are in high demand for smaller groups that offer more personalized experiences. Tour operators report strong advance bookings with companies like Alpaca Expeditions already taking reservations for 2025. During the prime hiking months when the weather is best for visiting sites like Phuyupatamarca and Intipunku some travelers book up to a year ahead to secure their preferred dates.
What unique cultural experiences are possible with a small group that aren't available with larger tours?
Small groups can enter local communities for genuine cultural exchanges in places like Patallacta and Huayllabamba. The intimate size allows access to private camping locations quiet coffee farms in Lucmabamba and traditional pachamanca feast experiences. As one TourRadar traveler noted: "Being in a smaller group allowed us to visit a local farmer's house in Lucmabamba learn about coffee making and have an intimate traditional meal - something impossible with larger groups."
What accommodations can I expect on a small group tour to Machu Picchu Mountain?
Tour operators provide quality camping gear and comfortable lodging options throughout the journey. Groups often stay in spacious 4-person tents shared by just 2 travelers at camps like Wayllabamba and Chaquicocha. After the trek many groups stay at established hotels such as Casa Andina in Aguas Calientes. According to one TourRadar traveler "The camping felt luxurious with dining tents good meals and porter service making it very comfortable."
What support staff is provided on small group tours to Machu Picchu Mountain?
Each tour includes professional guides chef teams and porters to handle logistics. Groups under 8 typically have one guide while larger groups get two guides plus porters who carry camping equipment and up to 7kg of personal items per guest. At key sites like Llactapata and Wiñay Wayna experienced guides share detailed historical context. TourRadar travelers often mention "the incredible support from guides chefs and porters making the journey possible."
What level of fitness is required for small group treks to Machu Picchu Mountain?
The trek demands moderate to high fitness with daily hikes lasting 6-8 hours at elevations between 2400m and 4215m. Groups face challenging sections including Dead Woman's Pass and steep descents to Wiñay Wayna. One TourRadar participant noted "The trek was demanding but our small group size allowed guides to adjust the pace and provide support when needed." Regular cardio workouts and previous hiking experience help prepare for the journey.
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