Cusco, Machu Picchu, and Sacred Valley of the Incas

Nestled high in the Andes Mountains, Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, serves as the gateway to a remarkable journey through Peru’s Sacred Valley and the iconic Machu Picchu. This vibrant city seamlessly blends Inca and colonial architectural wonders, inviting visitors to uncover its rich cultural heritage. Beyond Cusco’s captivating streets, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu offer a chance to explore the awe-inspiring legacy of the Incas, showcasing their architectural prowess and enduring influence. From exploring ancient ruins to witnessing the breathtaking landscapes, this tour promises to unveil the secrets and wonder of one of South America’s most remarkable destinations.

Key Points

• This 4-day tour from Cusco takes visitors to the iconic Machu Picchu, offering a comprehensive exploration of the Inca civilization’s architectural and cultural achievements.

• The itinerary includes visits to archaeological sites like Sacsayhuaman, Kenko, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay, showcasing the Incas’ remarkable engineering and construction skills.

• Travelers will experience the vibrant local culture, including a visit to the traditional Pisac market and an opportunity to engage with the region’s rich history and traditions.

• The tour provides breathtaking views of the Andes mountains and the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, allowing visitors to capture stunning photographs and gain a deeper appreciation for the landscape.

• Included in the tour are airport transfers, English-speaking guides, accommodation, train tickets, and entrance fees, ensuring a hassle-free and immersive experience for travelers.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Tour

Embarking on a 4-day circuit from Cusco to Machu Picchu, visitors can explore the ancient Inca wonders of the Sacred Valley, Moray, and Maras salt ponds.

Priced at €1,049.65 per person, this tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can reserve now and pay later.

The tour includes airport transfers, an English-speaking guide, 3 nights’ accommodation with breakfast, train tickets, and all entrance fees.

Highlights include the adventure of climbing Huayna Picchu, discovering the breathtaking views of Machu Picchu, and learning about the historical significance of the Inca civilization.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with arrival in Cusco, where travelers are picked up from the airport and checked into their hotel.

They’ll then enjoy a guided tour of the Cusco Cathedral and Coricancha, the ancient Inca site known as the Golden Courtyard.

Next, they’ll visit the archaeological sites of Sacsaywaman, Kenko, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay.

On the second day, the group heads to the Sacred Valley, exploring the Pisac ruins and market before visiting the impressive Ollantaytambo ruins and its Templo del Sol.

They’ll then take the train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

The highlight on Day 3 is the early-morning guided tour of the iconic Inca citadel.

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco

Upon arrival at the Cusco airport, travelers are greeted for their transfer to the hotel.

The first day of the tour begins with a guided exploration of the historic city of Cusco. Highlights include:

• Visiting the impressive Cusco Cathedral, a stunning example of Spanish colonial architecture.

• Exploring the Coricancha, also known as the "Golden Courtyard," an important Inca religious site.

• Venturing to the nearby archaeological sites of Sacsayhuaman, Kenko, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay to discover the engineering feats of the Inca civilization.

• Settling into the hotel and preparing for the adventures that await in the Sacred Valley on the following day.

Day 2: Sacred Valley

Early the next morning, the group departs Cusco for the stunning Sacred Valley. Their first stop is the Pisac archaeological complex, where they explore the Inca ruins and browse the traditional market. In the afternoon, they visit the impressive Ollantaytambo ruins, including the Temple of the Sun. After a full day of discovery, they catch the train to Aguas Calientes and check into their hotel, eager for the next day’s highlight – the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu.

Site	Highlight
Pisac	Inca ruins and traditional market
Ollantaytambo	Impressive ruins, including Temple of the Sun
Aguas Calientes	Train transfer, hotel check-in

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Day 3: Machu Picchu

They rise early to reach Machu Picchu at 6 am, eager to explore the UNESCO World Heritage site. The group embarks on a guided tour, learning about the Inca citadel’s history and significance.

They’re awestruck by the stunning panoramic views and towering peaks. The itinerary allows ample time to wander through the ruins, capturing breathtaking photos at every turn.

• Marvel at the well-preserved stone structures and terraces.
• Climb to the Sun Gate for a bird’s-eye view of the ancient site.
• Discover the sacred Inca Trail that leads to the iconic Wayna Picchu.
• Gain insights into the Inca engineering and astronomical knowledge.

After the tour, they take the train back to Ollantaytambo and transfer to their Cusco hotel.

Day 4: Maras and Moray

After their immersive exploration of Machu Picchu, the group embarks on the final day of their tour, venturing to the remarkable archaeological sites of Moray and the salt ponds of Maras. At Moray, they discover the Inca’s ingenious experiment with agricultural terraces, marveling at the intricate design and the stunning vistas. Next, they explore the historic salt ponds of Maras, where salt has been harvested for centuries. The tour concludes with a transfer back to Cusco, leaving the travelers with a deeper appreciation for the cultural and natural wonders of the region.

Moray	Maras Salt Ponds
Inca agricultural terraces	Historic salt production site
Stunning vistas	Centuries-old salt harvesting
Ingenious Inca design	Unique natural landscape

Tour Inclusions

The tour includes comprehensive package offerings to provide a seamless and enjoyable experience for travelers.

Travelers can expect the following included in the tour:

• All transfers to and from the airport, as well as between destinations
• An English-speaking guide to provide informative commentary throughout the journey
• 3 nights of accommodation with breakfast
• Pre-purchased tickets for the tourist train to Machu Picchu
• Entrance fees to all the historical sites and archaeological complexes visited

These inclusions ensure a well-organized and hassle-free exploration of Cusco, Machu Picchu, and the Sacred Valley, allowing travelers to focus on seeing the wonders of the Inca civilization.

Experience and Highlights

Travelers can look forward to an adventure-filled experience at Huayna Picchu, one of the highlights of the tour. Ascending this iconic mountain offers breathtaking panoramic views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding landscape. The tour also provides the opportunity to discover the wonders of the UNESCO World Heritage site itself, where visitors can learn about the historical significance and engineering feats of the Inca civilization. The highlight reel includes:

Experience	Highlight	Significance
Huayna Picchu	Dramatic mountain vistas	Adventure and awe-inspiring views
Machu Picchu	Guided tour of the ancient citadel	Insight into Inca history and culture
Inca Civilization	Exploring archaeological sites	Understanding the Inca’s remarkable achievements

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book This Tour for a Solo Traveler?

Yes, this tour can be booked for a solo traveler. The tour operator offers flexible booking options, and solo travelers are welcome to join the group and enjoy the full 4-day itinerary and sightseeing activities.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has a casual, comfortable dress code. Participants should wear lightweight, breathable clothing, sturdy walking shoes, and sun protection like a hat and sunglasses. Dressing in layers is recommended to accommodate changes in weather.

Are There Any Restrictions on Luggage Size?

The tour does not impose strict luggage size restrictions, but it’s recommended to pack lightly as there’s some hiking involved. Travelers should avoid bringing large or bulky items that could be cumbersome during the excursions.

Can I Modify the Itinerary to Include Additional Activities?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to include additional activities. Travelers can work with the tour operator to modify the schedule and add optional excursions that align with their interests and preferences.

Is Travel Insurance Recommended for This Tour?

Travel insurance is highly recommended for this tour. It can protect against unexpected events, cover medical emergencies, and provide coverage for trip cancellation or delays. It’s a smart investment to ensure a worry-free and enjoyable experience.

Recap

This tour offers an immersive experience into the rich Inca heritage and breathtaking landscapes of Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu. Visitors can explore the blend of Inca and colonial architecture, discover ancient ruins, and witness the architectural marvel of Machu Picchu. The comprehensive itinerary and inclusions ensure a seamless and memorable journey through this captivating region of Peru.

You can check if your dates are available here: