Embark on an unforgettable journey through the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu with our carefully crafted tour. As we traverse this remarkable landscape, rich with history and natural beauty, we will be immersed in the heart of the ancient Inca civilization. The Sacred Valley, nestled between high Andean peaks, offers a glimpse into a world where ancient traditions still thrive.
Our tour will take us through vibrant Andean villages, bustling markets, and impressive archaeological sites. We will explore the Sacred Valley’s highlights, including Pisac and Ollantaytambo, where massive stone terraces and temples stand as a testament to the Inca’s architectural prowess.
The adventure will start with pickup from your hotel in Cusco. We will then set off into the valley, traveling alongside the Urubamba River. Our knowledgeable tour guide will share captivating stories of the valley’s rich history, allowing us to connect with the ancient culture that once flourished here. As we venture into Ollantaytambo, we will be surrounded by awe-inspiring stonework and engineering that have stood the test of time. The Ollantaytambo fortress, perched at 2,792 meters (9,160 feet) above sea level, offers breathtaking views and a chance to step back in time.
After exploring the Sacred Valley, we will board a scenic train to Aguas Calientes. The train ride itself is an experience, winding through lush mountains and valleys. In Aguas Calientes, we will rest and prepare for the highlight of our journey: the ascent to the majestic Machu Picchu. Early the next morning, we will take a short bus ride to the entrance of this renowned Inca citadel. With our entrance tickets in hand, we will step into the mysteries of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Our guided tour through the ancient city will uncover the secrets of its temples, plazas, and terraces. We will have the chance to climb Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain for panoramic views, reaching elevations of up to 2,720 meters (8,924 feet) above sea level. This climb will offer us a unique perspective of the citadel, surrounded by lush, green mountains and misty clouds.
For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, we will have plenty of time to explore the site at our own pace. The expertise of our tour guide will provide in-depth knowledge, enhancing our understanding of the Inca’s remarkable achievements. After soaking in the beauty and mystique of Machu Picchu, we will return to Aguas Calientes and take the train back to Ollantaytambo. From there, we will journey back to Cusco, our hearts full and minds enriched by the wonders we have experienced.
This Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour will be conducted in small groups, ensuring a personalized and meaningful experience. We will take care of all the details, from entrance tickets to hotel arrangements in Aguas Calientes. Our goal is to create a seamless journey, allowing us to focus on the magic of the Inca Trail and the marvels of the archaeological sites. By choosing this tour, we will be embarking on a path filled with culture, history, and unforgettable scenery, leaving us with memories that will last a lifetime.
Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour Includes
Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour Excludes
On the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour, you can expect a journey that blends breathtaking natural landscapes with rich Inca history. Starting from Cusco, you will explore the Sacred Valley’s stunning archaeological sites like Pisac and Ollantaytambo, while learning about the traditions and culture that still thrive in these vibrant towns. The tour includes a scenic train ride through the valley to Aguas Calientes, offering views of lush mountains and rushing rivers along the way.
The highlight of the tour is, of course, the visit to Machu Picchu. As you arrive early in the morning, you will experience the majestic citadel coming to life with the first rays of sunlight. A knowledgeable guide will lead you through the ancient ruins, sharing fascinating stories and revealing the mysteries of the Inca civilization. Whether you choose to hike Huayna Picchu Mountain or explore the citadel’s terraces at your own pace, the experience will leave you with a sense of awe and deep appreciation for this world wonder.
We will start the first day of our Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour early in the morning, departing from the historic city of Cusco. As we leave the bustling streets behind, we will drive through the Andean highlands, where stunning mountain views and terraced fields unfold before us.
The journey will take us first to the charming town of Pisac, located about 33 kilometers (20 miles) from Cusco. Here, we will explore its impressive archaeological site perched on a hilltop at 2,972 meters (9,751 feet) above sea level. Our tour guide will share the history of the Inca terraces, temples, and ceremonial baths that overlook the lush Sacred Valley below.
After visiting the ruins, we will descend into the village of Pisac, known for its vibrant market. We will have time to wander through stalls brimming with colorful textiles, handmade crafts, and fresh produce. As we stroll through the market, we will experience the traditional Andean way of life up close.
We will then continue our journey along the winding road to Urubamba, the heart of the Sacred Valley. In this serene setting, surrounded by towering peaks, we will stop for a delicious lunch featuring local Andean flavors.
With our energy restored, we will head to Ollantaytambo, another gem of the Sacred Valley.
Ollantaytambo, nestled at an altitude of 2,792 meters (9,160 feet), is home to one of the most remarkable Inca fortresses. Our tour guide will lead us through the narrow cobblestone streets of this ancient town, sharing insights into its rich history. We will climb the terraces of the fortress, marveling at the massive stonework and the panoramic views of the valley. As we stand atop this historical site, we will feel the presence of the Incas who once inhabited these lands.
In the late afternoon, we will make our way to the train station in Ollantaytambo. We will board the train for a scenic ride to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. The train journey will be a highlight, offering views of the river, lush vegetation, and towering mountains. As we approach Aguas Calientes, excitement will build, knowing that the sacred citadel of Machu Picchu awaits us the next day.
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, we will head to our hotel, where we will have a chance to rest and unwind. We will spend the evening exploring the charming town or relaxing in preparation for the adventure ahead. The gentle sound of the river will accompany us as we drift into a well-deserved sleep, ready for the early start to our Machu Picchu visit on the following day.
On the second day of our Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour, we will wake up early in Aguas Calientes. The morning air will be fresh and filled with anticipation. After a hearty breakfast at our hotel in Aguas Calientes, we will take a short bus ride up to the entrance of Machu Picchu. The ride will zigzag through lush mountain scenery, giving us our first glimpses of the towering peaks surrounding the ancient citadel.
Upon arrival, we will present our entrance tickets and step into one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world. As we enter, the sun will begin to rise over the mountains, casting a golden glow on the stone structures. Our tour guide will lead us through the citadel, sharing fascinating stories of its construction, history, and the mysteries that still surround it. We will explore the main temple, the Sun Dial, and the terraced fields. Each corner of the site will reveal a new wonder, showcasing the ingenuity of the Inca civilization.
For those seeking an extra adventure, there will be the option to climb Huayna Picchu Mountain. This climb, reaching 2,720 meters (8,924 feet) above sea level, will offer a stunning view of the citadel from above. The steep but rewarding hike will take us through narrow paths and ancient staircases carved into the rock. From the summit, we will have a breathtaking perspective of Machu Picchu, nestled amidst the surrounding green peaks.
After our guided tour, we will have some free time to explore on our own or simply absorb the beauty of this sacred place. We will then make our way back to Aguas Calientes, where we will enjoy a leisurely lunch and relax before the return journey. In the afternoon, we will board the train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. The ride will take us once again through the scenic Sacred Valley, offering us a chance to reflect on the experiences of the past two days.
Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, our private transportation will be waiting to take us back to Cusco. As we drive through the valley, we will feel a deep connection to this land, enriched by the stories, landscapes, and history we have encountered. By the time we reach Cusco, our journey through the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu will have left us with lasting memories and a profound sense of wonder.
The Sacred Valley is approximately 90 kilometers (56 miles) from Machu Picchu. The journey from the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu typically starts in Ollantaytambo, where you will board a train to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. The train ride takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the type of service you choose. From Aguas Calientes, it’s a 30-minute bus ride up the mountain to the entrance of the Machu Picchu citadel. In total, the trip from the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu can take about 2.5 to 3 hours, providing a scenic and memorable travel experience through the beautiful Andean landscape.
No, Machu Picchu is not located in the Sacred Valley. The Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu are separate, though they are closely linked by geography and history. The Sacred Valley stretches between the towns of Pisac and Ollantaytambo, along the Urubamba River, and is known for its archaeological sites, traditional villages, and stunning landscapes.
Machu Picchu, on the other hand, is situated further northwest of the Sacred Valley, perched high in the Andes Mountains near the town of Aguas Calientes. While not in the valley itself, Machu Picchu can be reached from the Sacred Valley, typically by train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, followed by a bus ride up to the citadel.
Yes, it is possible to visit both the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu in a single day, but it requires a very early start and a well-planned schedule. Typically, you would begin your day in Cusco and first explore key sites in the Sacred Valley, such as Pisac and Ollantaytambo. Afterward, you would take a train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, followed by a bus ride up to Machu Picchu.
However, visiting both places in one day can feel rushed. The Sacred Valley is rich in history and natural beauty, and Machu Picchu deserves ample time to explore its wonders fully. Many travelers prefer a 2-day tour, dedicating the first day to the Sacred Valley and the second day to Machu Picchu, allowing for a more relaxed and immersive experience.
+51 950 590 055
info@luantravelperu.com