Exploring the captivating landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Peru’s Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu can be a transformative experience. This private 2-day tour offers travelers a chance to explore the wonders of the Inca civilization, from the ancient salt ponds of Maras to the breathtaking vistas of Machu Picchu. With a knowledgeable local guide, visitors will uncover the secrets of these iconic sites, seeing the history and traditions of this remarkable region. Whether seeking to conquer the optional Huayna Picchu hike or simply bask in the majesty of the Inca ruins, this tour promises an unforgettable journey that will linger long after the trip has ended.
Key Points
- Comprehensive 2-day private tour of Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, including visits to Maras, Moray, and Ollantaytambo.
- Guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Machu Picchu with an optional hike to Huayna Picchu for panoramic views.
- Exploration of the ancient salt ponds of Maras, showcasing traditional Inca salt-harvesting techniques.
- Immersive experience with an expert local guide, providing insights into the Inca civilization’s engineering and agricultural practices.
- Personalized tour package with round-trip transportation, meals, and hotel pickup/drop-off included for a seamless experience.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Overview of the Tour
- Exploring Inca Sites and Towns
- The Salt Ponds of Maras
- The Private Guided Tour of Machu Picchu
- Hiking Huayna Picchu (Optional)
- Included in the Tour
- Meeting and Pickup Details
- Travel Requirements and Recommendations
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Cusco
- More 2-Day Experiences in Cusco
- More Tours in Cusco
- More Tour Reviews in Cusco
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Cusco we have recnetly reviewed
Overview of the Tour
This private 2-day tour offers an immersive exploration of Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley region in Cusco, Peru.
Travelers will discover Inca sites and Andean towns, including Maras, Moray, and Ollantaytambo. The highlight is a private guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Visitors can also opt to hike Huayna Picchu for panoramic views. The tour includes breakfast, lunch, an English-speaking guide, private transportation, and all necessary transfers.
With a maximum of 2 people per booking, the experience provides a personalized and in-depth journey through this remarkable region of Peru.
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Exploring Inca Sites and Towns
Exploring the ancient Inca sites and Andean towns that dot the Sacred Valley is a captivating journey through Peru’s storied past. Guests will visit the terraced salt ponds of Maras, where salt has been harvested since Inca times. The mysterious circular terraces of Moray provide fascinating insights into the Incas’ advanced agricultural practices. And the grand fortress of Ollantaytambo, with its towering stone temples, offers a window into the engineering prowess of this lost civilization.
| Site | Significance | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Maras | Salt harvesting since Inca times | Terraced salt ponds |
| Moray | Advanced Inca agriculture | Circular terraced experimental farms |
| Ollantaytambo | Inca engineering and architecture | Towering stone temples and fortresses |
The Salt Ponds of Maras
The salt ponds of Maras are a captivating part of this journey through Peru’s storied past.
These ancient salt mines, nestled in the Andes, have been in use since Inca times. Thousands of small, terraced pools are filled with salty water that evaporates in the sun, leaving behind a harvest of pure, crystalline salt.
Visitors can witness the traditional salt-harvesting techniques that have endured for centuries, creating a mesmerizing display of the region’s rich cultural heritage.
The salt ponds not only offer a unique glimpse into the past but also serve as a stunning visual contrast against the rugged Andean landscape, making them a must-see attraction on this immersive tour.
The Private Guided Tour of Machu Picchu
Travelers are treated to an immersive, private guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu during this captivating experience. The local guide expertly navigates the winding stone paths, sharing insights into the remarkable Inca engineering and the site’s fascinating history.
Highlights of the tour include:
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Exploring the iconic Temple of the Sun, with its precisely carved stonework and stunning mountain vistas.
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Visiting the Principal Plaza, where the guide illuminates the site’s intricate urban planning and the functions of key structures.
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Ascending to the Intipunku, or Sun Gate, for panoramic views of the entire ancient citadel and the surrounding Andes.
This private tour allows travelers to fully enjoy the wonder of Machu Picchu at their own pace.
Hiking Huayna Picchu (Optional)
For those seeking an exhilarating challenge, the optional hike up Huayna Picchu offers panoramic vistas over the ancient Inca citadel and the surrounding Andes mountains.
The steep, narrow trails lead adventurers up 1,180 feet (360 meters) to the summit, providing a bird’s-eye view of Machu Picchu’s iconic structures and the lush, verdant landscape below.
Though the hike is strenuous, the sense of accomplishment and the breathtaking panoramas make it a popular add-on for many visitors.
Advance reservations are required, and the fee is $15 USD per person.
Hikers should come prepared with sturdy footwear, water, and sun protection to make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Included in the Tour
Aside from the optional Huayna Picchu hike, this private tour of Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley includes a comprehensive package of essential services and experiences.
Travelers can expect:
- Breakfast and lunch provided during the tour to keep energy levels high.
- A professional English-speaking guide and private driver to navigate the region seamlessly.
- Round-trip transportation via bus and train for convenient access to Machu Picchu and Ollantaytambo.
Local taxes, hotel/port pickup and drop-off, and all transfers with a private van ensure a hassle-free experience for guests.
This well-curated tour offers an immersive exploration of Inca history and Andean culture.
Meeting and Pickup Details
Upon request, pickup from hotels in the Sacred Valley can be arranged. The local provider should be confirmed regarding the pickup time in advance.
Travelers must provide their passport details, including name, number, expiry date, and country, at the time of booking. A valid passport is required on the travel day.
The tour has a minimum of two people per booking, and infants must sit on laps. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so comfortable shoes and a jacket are recommended.
Travel Requirements and Recommendations
Travelers must provide their passport details, including name, number, expiry date, and country, when booking this tour. A valid passport is required for travel.
Minimum of 2 people per booking; infants must sit on laps. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so comfortable shoes and a jacket are recommended.
Additionally:
- This tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues.
- Participants should be prepared for walking and navigating uneven terrain.
- The weather in the Andes can be unpredictable, so layered clothing is advisable.
2-Day Private Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour
“I always worry about these tours when I've never been to the country before, and I can say wholeheartedly I needn't have worried for this tour. G…”
Recap
This captivating 2-day private tour offers an immersive exploration of Peru’s sacred Inca heritage. Discover the iconic sites of the Sacred Valley, marvel at the salt ponds of Maras, and be awed by the grandeur of Machu Picchu. With a knowledgeable local guide, personalized service, and convenient transportation, this journey through stunning landscapes promises an unforgettable experience that showcases the rich cultural and historical treasures of the region.
