2-day journey through the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. This tour offers a glimpse into the heart of Inca culture and history as we traverse the sce...
Moderate, Moderate
Hike, Culture, Adventure
2700msnm
Group Service
2-day journey through the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. This tour offers a glimpse into the heart of Inca culture and history as we traverse the scenic Sacred Valley, known for its moderate climate and lower elevation compared to Cusco. Experience charming villages, ancient Inca terraces, and key archaeological sites. Explore the fascinating Salt Mines and Moray terraces, where the Incas constructed terraces with containment walls to cultivate fertile soil. Discover the awe-inspiring ruins and the legendary Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu, a pinnacle of Incan art, urban planning, architecture, and engineering.
Our adventure begins at 7:30am, with your guide picking you up from your Cusco hotel in a private van. We drive towards the Sacred Valley of the Incas, making our first stop at Pisac. From the Taray Mirador, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Urubamba Valley and its traditional farming communities. The agricultural practices here have remained largely unchanged for centuries. Next, we visit the Pisac archaeological site, where you can explore an extensive Inca cemetery with over 2,000 tombs, marvel at the meticulously crafted farming terraces, and discover the Inca tunnels and sacred areas. Spend around 2 hours exploring this significant Inca site. Afterwards, we visit the vibrant Pisac market for about 20 minutes before heading to Urubamba for lunch (not included).
Our journey continues to the Moray archaeological site, often referred to as “The Greenhouse of the Incas.” This site features a series of concentric terraces built into a natural depression, showcasing advanced Inca agricultural techniques. These terraces were used to experiment with different microclimates to optimize crop growth.
Next, we drive to the town of Maras to view the pre-Inca salt mines, known as salineras. These ancient salt pans have been in use for generations and are still operational today. A natural spring at the valley’s top provides salt-laden water, which is then collected in the pans to evaporate and produce salt. This unique location is one of the few in the world where you can find naturally pink salt.
Finally, we arrive in Ollantaytambo, a town that has preserved its Inca heritage. Here, you will explore the ancient Inca village and its impressive ruins, including the Sun Temple, which played a crucial role during the early Spanish conquest. After dinner, we board the train to Aguas Calientes, where you will stay overnight. The train departs from Ollantaytambo at 7:04pm and arrives in Aguas Calientes at 8:45pm.
Accommodations:
Today is the highlight of your journey! After an early breakfast at your hotel, board one of the first buses to Machu Picchu to catch the sunrise—an unforgettable experience. Your guide will provide a 2-hour tour, covering the main areas of Machu Picchu and explaining its three distinct sectors: agricultural, residential, and religious.
Once you’ve absorbed the breathtaking views of Machu Picchu, take the bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Depending on your train departure time, you might have some time for shopping, sightseeing, or visiting the museum or hot springs.
The Expedition train will return you to Ollantaytambo at either 2:55pm or 3:20pm, following the picturesque Urubamba River. Along the way, you can spot Wiñay Wayna on the steep canyon walls. Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, a driver will meet you at the train station to transfer you back to your Cusco hotel, arriving by approximately 7:30pm.
Meal Included: Breakfast
Important Notes:
Included:
Not Included:
Huayna Picchu Mountain: This optional trek within Machu Picchu Citadel does not include a guide. Typically, this climb is done independently after your Machu Picchu tour. If you prefer a guided hike, please request it in advance. An additional cost applies for guided tours.
Prices:
The Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu tour can be scheduled on any date that suits you, provided we have a minimum of 2 participants.
With Hotel – 3-Star Ferre Machu Picchu
Discounts:
Extras:
Packing List: What to Bring for the Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Tour:
General Important Information:
Briefing:
A pre-trek briefing will be held at 6:00 pm the night before your trek at our office, located at Calle Punacchupan 196, office 201 (second floor)
Luggage Storage:
During the Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Tour, you can store your main luggage at our office or your hotel. Ensure you pack only what you need for the hike.
How to Book the Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Tour:
To book your tour, fill out our booking form by clicking on “BOOK NOW” on our homepage or click here for the booking link.
Please provide the following information for each participant:
A deposit of $211 USD per person is required to purchase your entrance ticket to Machu Picchu and train ticket. You can make your deposit by clicking on the VISA or PAYPAL symbols on our homepage or booking page, or click here for your preferred payment method.
Balance Payment Information:
To avoid high credit card fees in Peru, you may pay the remaining balance in cash at our office (US dollars or Peruvian soles) in Cusco. There are numerous ATMs in the historical center for withdrawing money. Alternatively, you can pay online via VISA or PAYPAL, but note that a 5.5% service fee will be charged by these platforms. To pay via PAYPAL, log in to your account and use our email address: balances@incasexpeditions.com.
Student Discount Eligibility:
In accordance with Peruvian law, to qualify for a student discount, you must be under 18 years of age at the time of your trek or tour to Machu Picchu. Students aged 18 and above need to present a valid university ID. For instance, if you are 17 at the time of booking but turn 18 before your trek, you must provide a valid university ID to qualify for the discount.
Please send a copy of your passport to info@incasexpeditions.com when booking to receive the student discount.
Changing Departure Dates:
Changes to departure dates are not allowed once Machu Picchu tickets have been purchased, as government regulations prohibit modifications. Tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable. Please note that if you cancel your Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Tour, the deposit is non-refundable.
Original Passport Requirement:
You must bring your original passport, which must match the number used to book your entrance to Machu Picchu, train ticket, and other reservations. This will be checked by rangers at Machu Picchu and by the train company. If you are renewing your passport or changing your name, send us your old passport information to secure your permit. We can update it when you receive your new passport number or updated name for a $25 fee per person. We require copies of both your old and new passports for this process. If you prefer not to pay this fee, bring both passports with you to Peru, as you will need to show both to enter Machu Picchu or board the train.
Weather Conditions:
The weather in the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu can be quite unpredictable. We recommend packing a warm jacket for early mornings and a rain jacket in case of showers. INCAS EXPEDITIONS will provide you with a rain poncho.
Hotel Drop-off:
Yes, we will drop you off at your hotel after your trek or tour. If your hotel is in the Sacred Valley, such as Ollantaytambo or Urubamba, we will drop you there as well.
Tipping:
Tipping is not compulsory, but it is greatly appreciated if you are satisfied with the services provided. While it might not be customary in your country, tipping is a significant practice in the tourism industry across many INCA EXPEDITIONS destinations and helps inspire excellent service. Tip as you see fit, based on the quality and length of your tour.
Sustainability:
INCA EXPEDITIONS is committed to sustainable and responsible tourism. We follow universal principles to protect the environment and benefit local communities while respecting their culture and religion. Our staff are trained to understand and respect the local environment and people.
Why Choose INCA EXPEDITIONS?
INCA EXPEDITIONS is a family-owned travel agency based in Cusco with extensive experience in trekking. As a fully Cusqueñian company with no external shareholders, we strive to offer personalized, high-quality tours operated by local professionals. We take pride in being a responsible and sustainable operator, ensuring fair treatment and support for our staff.
Our commitment to responsible tourism is reflected in our dedication to supporting local communities and offering enriching experiences for our clients. We invite you to review our accolades and testimonials on TripAdvisor, Conde Nast Travelers, Lonely Planet, and various travel blogs to see why we are highly recommended.
Small Groups:
We limit our groups to a maximum of 8 people to provide a more personalized experience, distinguishing us from companies with larger groups.
Our Top Tour Guides:
Our guides are highly professional, fluent in English, and passionate about Inca history. They are continuously improving their knowledge and skills, holding degrees in fields such as Archeology, Tourism, Botany, History, or Anthropology.
Our Service Projects:
INCA EXPEDITIONS believes in giving back to the communities we visit. We support and employ local residents, fostering a holistic approach that enriches the lives of both our team members and their families.
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