Machu Picchu Tours for Young Adults
Have you imagined exploring Cusco's artisan shops and cuisine, trekking through Lares Valley and meeting locals, or hiking to Andean summits and learning Quechua? Relax in Lares Hot Springs and visit schools, tour Machu Picchu and enjoy scenic train rides. Peru's highlands deliver authentic culture, and Machu Picchu is a true bucket list experience alone.
6 best trips for '18 to 30 Somethings' in Machu Picchu
Compiled by
MelissaMachu Picchu travel expert at TourRadar
The scenic Km104 route leads adventurers aged 18+ to Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate. Wander the ancient citadel during quiet afternoon hours with expert guides, then celebrate in Aguas Calientes before returning to Cusco. Ideal blend of hiking and cultural immersion.
Duration 6 days Destinations Cusco, Cancha Cancha, Lares, Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu Age Range Ages 18-35 Physical Rating Easy Room Type Singles, Shared Operator Contiki From $1,385
10% Off- US$1,247+$60 upfront costsYou save $139
Peruvian Highlights (Inca Trail Trek)
10 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Detailed planning along with great knowledge and sense of humor was just what we needed.”
Danish, traveled in April
The 13km Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers spectacular Huayna Picchu views. Select between challenging hikes or scenic train rides, while expert guides share ancient Incan history throughout the UNESCO World Heritage site.
Duration 8 days Destinations Lima, Puerto Maldonado, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu Age Range Ages 18-35 Physical Rating Moderate Room Type Singles, Shared Operator Contiki From $2,260
19% Off- US$1,831+$720 upfront costsYou save $429
Peru Inca Adventure
95 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The whole tour was amazing I loved how nearly all the activities were included in the tour therefore not needing to worrying about massive extra costs.”
Louise, traveled in September
The one-day Inca Trail leads to iconic Machu Picchu, where ancient ruins and stunning mountain vistas await. Features guided tours of archaeological sites, traditional workshops, and evening activities in nearby Aguas Calientes.
Duration 10 days Destinations Cusco, Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu Age Range Ages 18-39 Physical Rating Moderate Room Type Shared Operator TruTravels From
19% Off- US$1,795
South American Explorer (With Train To Machu Picchu)
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The tour was well worth the money, there were a lot of travel days but everything we did was worth it.”
Jemilla, traveled in August
Take the scenic train from Aguas Calientes to reach ancient Machu Picchu, where you'll tour the Temple of the Three Windows and look up at Huayna Picchu peak with your guide. The 13km one-day trek sits at 2,720m elevation as you hike mountain trails with a 5kg duffle bag, then stay overnight in town before dawn visits to this UNESCO site.
Duration 18 days Destinations Cusco, Sacred Valley, Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Urubamba, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu, Puerto Maldonado, Lima Age Range Ages 18-35 Physical Rating Easy Room Type Singles, Shared Operator Contiki From $3,361
10% Off- US$3,025+$1,724 upfront costsYou save $336
Peruvian Highlights (Train To Machu Picchu)
10 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Elio was the absolute best!”
Lauren, traveled in April
The Inca Trail offers a choice between a 13km trek or scenic train ride to Machu Picchu. Marvel at the Temple of Three Windows, scale Huayna Picchu peak, and uncover hidden corners of this UNESCO site. Perfect for active travelers aged 18+.
Duration 8 days Destinations Lima, Puerto Maldonado, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu Age Range Ages 18-35 Physical Rating Moderate Room Type Singles, Shared Operator Contiki From $2,080
19% Off- US$1,685+$505 upfront costsYou save $395
A 13km path along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu awaits energetic travelers aged 18+. Cloud forest paths reveal stunning views of Huayna Picchu peak before reaching the UNESCO citadel with expert guides. Comfortable accommodations in Aguas Calientes included.
Duration 13 days Destinations Lima, Puerto Maldonado, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu, La Paz, Eduardo Avaroa National Reserve Age Range Ages 18-35 Physical Rating Moderate Room Type Singles, Shared Operator Contiki From $3,074
10% Off- US$2,767+$1,174 upfront costsYou save $307
What our customers ask about Machu Picchu Tours for Young Adults
What's the best time of year for young adults to visit Machu Picchu Mountain?
Young travelers find the most reliable conditions during the dry season from April to October. The weather stays consistent for hiking and exploring the mountain paths. March-April and October-November see fewer tourists but still maintain pleasant conditions. A TourRadar traveler mentioned: "We were gifted with fantastic weather for the Inca Trail - cloudy with a drizzle of rain in the morning and blue skies at the end which was perfect for hiking." Daily temperatures range between 60-70°F (15-21°C) making outdoor activities comfortable throughout the day.
What are the best activities for young adults visiting Machu Picchu Mountain for the first time?
The area offers diverse experiences from trekking the Inca Trail to cycling through the Sacred Valley. Local culture comes alive in Cusco's markets while the Lares Valley Trek lets you see glacial lakes and traditional villages up close. A TourRadar traveler noted: "The mountain biking was incredible - Jimmy was great gave excellent advice and we felt super safe while getting amazing views of the Andes." Most visitors mix cultural experiences like the San Pedro Markets and weaving demonstrations with adventure activities such as rafting the Urubamba River or hiking Rainbow Mountain.
How can I meet other young travelers during my Machu Picchu Mountain tour?
Group activities create natural opportunities to connect with fellow travelers. Shared meals in Cusco's restaurants group hikes on the Inca Trail and social spaces at places like Wild Rover hostel bring people together. One TourRadar traveler shared: "We all created a strong bond and it was sad to go - we felt like a family and bounced off each other with our sense of humor." Evening activities often include salsa classes cooking workshops and group outings to try Pisco Sours at local bars.
What's the average age of travelers on young adult tours to Machu Picchu Mountain?
The typical age range spans 18-35 years with most travelers around 29-30 years old. Groups tend to stay at mid-range accommodations like Casa Andina in Cusco and Tierra Viva in Aguas Calientes. A TourRadar traveler noted: "Roger collected money to buy boxes of water for the trip which saved on plastic and was an ace idea - the group really bonded over environmental consciousness." The social setup works well for meeting other young travelers through group dinners and evening activities.
How much should young adults budget for a Machu Picchu Mountain trip?
Daily tour costs run between 259-293 USD covering accommodation guided experiences and select meals. Plan for extra expenses: 30-40 USD daily for additional meals 20-30 USD for optional activities and 50-100 USD for local crafts and souvenirs. A TourRadar traveler advised: "The tour was great value - just make sure to budget extra for the amazing local restaurants in Cusco and traditional crafts in the Sacred Valley markets." Most packages include major costs like Machu Picchu entry fees and local transport.
How physically demanding are the Machu Picchu Mountain tours for young adults?
The physical requirements suit moderately fit young adults. A typical one-day Inca Trail covers 13 kilometers in 6-7 hours reaching 2720m (8924 ft). A TourRadar traveler shared: "Rainbow Mountain was quite literally breathtaking but the feeling of achievement at the end is great - perfect for young adventurers!" Tours start with time in Cusco at 3399m (11152 ft) to adjust to the altitude. Activity levels range from easy walks to challenging treks with options to match your fitness level.
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