Humantay, Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu

Peru’s Humantay Lagoon, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu offer an unparalleled opportunity to take in the country’s natural wonders and rich cultural heritage. From hiking to a stunning alpine lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks to exploring the ancient Inca ruins and vibrant local markets, this one-day tour promises an unforgettable experience. But the true allure lies in the chance to uncover the deep historical significance that permeates every step of this remarkable journey, leaving visitors with a profound appreciation for the enduring legacy of the Inca civilization.

Key Points

• The tour covers the iconic Peruvian sites of Humantay Lagoon, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu in a one-day immersive experience.
• The Humantay Lagoon hike offers breathtaking views of mountains and glaciers, with a leisurely lunch at the lagoon.
• The tour includes visits to Chinchero, known for its traditional Inca terraces and vibrant textile market, and Moray, featuring unique concentric terraces.
• The tour provides ample time to explore the Inca-era fortress town of Ollantaytambo before the journey to Machu Picchu.
• The tour package includes transportation, necessary tickets, most meals, and a professional bilingual guide for a hassle-free experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This experience allows travelers to explore the Humantay Lagoon, Sacred Valley, and the renowned Machu Picchu over the course of a single day tour.

The tour lasts one day and costs $939 per person. A live tour guide is available in English and Spanish, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance is offered. Travelers can also choose the "reserve now, pay later" option.

The tour includes transportation, all necessary tickets, and most meals. Exclusions involve personal expenses, tips, and transportation to and from Cusco.

With a moderate hiking difficulty, this tour provides an immersive experience in some of Peru’s most iconic natural and historical sites.

Humantay Lagoon Hike

Departing early from Cusco, travelers embark on an invigorating hike to the stunning Humantay Lagoon. The journey takes them through the Soraypampa region, where they ascend to an altitude of 4,200 meters above sea level.

The 5-kilometer hike, rated moderate in difficulty, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. Upon arrival, travelers are rewarded with the serene beauty of the emerald-hued Humantay Lagoon, nestled amidst the majestic peaks.

The experience is enhanced by:

• Witnessing the captivating colors of the lagoon
• Marveling at the impressive Humantay glacier
• Enjoying a leisurely lunch while taking in the stunning scenery
• Relishing the sense of accomplishment from conquering the moderate hike

After their time at the lagoon, travelers return to Cusco in the afternoon.

Exploring Chinchero

After their invigorating hike to the Humantay Lagoon, the tour moves on to explore the charming town of Chinchero.

Nestled high in the Andes, Chinchero is known for its traditional Inca terraces and thriving textile market. Visitors will wander through the vibrant marketplace, browsing handcrafted textiles, ponchos, and other local crafts.

The tour then visits the Chinchero archaeological site, where ancient ruins and colonial churches provide a glimpse into the region’s rich history.

With its stunning mountain vistas and cultural heritage, Chinchero offers a captivating contrast to the tranquil Humantay Lagoon, further enriching the tour’s diverse experiences.

Discovering Moray

From Chinchero, the tour moves on to explore the unique archaeological site of Moray. This ancient Inca site features a series of concentric terraces, descending into a bowl-shaped depression in the earth.

The purpose of this remarkable structure is still debated, but it’s believed to have been used for agricultural experimentation, with each terrace representing a different microclimate.

Visitors can walk along the terraces, marveling at the ingenuity of the Inca engineers. The site offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, providing a glimpse into the Inca’s advanced understanding of agriculture and land use.

• Unique concentric terraced depressions
• Believed used for agricultural experimentation
• Showcases Inca engineering and understanding of microclimates
• Offers impressive mountain views

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Ollantaytambo Rest

The tour now arrives at the town of Ollantaytambo, where participants can rest and explore this Inca-era fortress town.

They’ll enjoy a stop at a scenic viewpoint before reaching Ollantaytambo. This historic town features impressive Inca ruins, including terraced agricultural fields and a temple-fortress complex.

Visitors can wander the narrow cobblestone streets, admire the ancient stone walls, and soak in the town’s peaceful atmosphere.

After exploring, they’ll have time to relax and prepare for the next day’s journey to Machu Picchu, the tour’s iconic destination.

Machu Picchu Journey

On the third day, participants take the train ride to Aguas Calientes, the town nestled at the base of Machu Picchu.

The journey begins between 8:45 and 10:30 AM, with arrival at Machu Picchu around 2:15 PM. A 2.5-hour guided tour follows, allowing visitors to explore this iconic Inca citadel.

The tour covers key highlights:

• Panoramic views of the ruins
• The Intihuatana, an intricate stone structure
• The Temple of the Sun, with its carefully aligned windows
• Hiram Bingham’s original excavation site

After the tour, the group returns to Ollantaytambo and then transfers back to Cusco, completing the comprehensive Machu Picchu experience.

Accommodation and Transportation

What accommodations and transportation are included in the tour package?

The tour includes 2 nights’ accommodation at the San Agustín La Recoleta hotel or a similar property.

Transportation is provided from/to the traveler’s Cusco hotel, as well as the Voyager Machu Picchu Train tickets.

The package also covers bus transport via Consettur.

Visitors receive a professional bilingual guide for all site visits and the necessary tickets to Machu Picchu and other destinations in Cusco.

Meals provided include breakfast and lunch on Days 2 and 3, plus a lunch box on Day 1.

Included and Excluded Meals

Meals are provided on certain days of the tour, as outlined in the itinerary.

On Day 1, a lunch box is included. For Day 2, breakfast and lunch are provided. On the final Day 3, breakfast and lunch are also included.

However, the following are excluded:

• Early check-in, late check-out, and any services or meals not mentioned
• Drinks during meals, hotel extras, and personal expenses
• Domestic and international airline tickets
• Tips for guides, drivers, and waiters unless specified

The tour focuses on the major highlights, ensuring travelers experience the Humantay Lagoon, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu without the hassle of arranging every meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

The tour details do not specify the average group size. However, it’s a private tour, so the group size is likely small and tailored to the needs of each customer.

Can I Extend My Stay in Machu Picchu or the Sacred Valley?

Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Machu Picchu or the Sacred Valley for an additional fee. The tour operator offers flexible arrangements to accommodate longer visits, but travelers should inquire about the availability and costs.

Do I Need Any Special Permits or Equipment for the Hike?

For the hike to Humantay Lagoon, travelers don’t need any special permits, but they should wear proper hiking gear like sturdy shoes, warm layers, and bring sunscreen and water. The tour operator provides necessary equipment and guidance.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Physical Requirements for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions, but it does require a moderate level of fitness for the hike to Humantay Lagoon. Participants should be able to walk up to 5 km at high altitudes.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Focus on Specific Sites?

The tour allows some customization of the itinerary to focus on specific sites. Travelers can discuss their interests with the tour operator and make adjustments to the standard itinerary, subject to availability and additional costs.

Recap

This one-day tour to Humantay Lagoon, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in Peru’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. From the breathtaking vistas of Humantay Lagoon to the awe-inspiring ruins of Machu Picchu, this comprehensive itinerary provides an unforgettable experience that will leave visitors with lasting memories of Peru’s natural wonders and Inca legacy.

You can check if your dates are available here: