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Set off on an unforgettable journey with our Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour. You will delve into the heart of the Inca Empire, exploring the Sacred Valley and the iconic Machu Picchu.
Our journey starts in Cusco, and we’ll explore the Sacred Valley like adventurers. Known as the ‘Valley of the Incas’, this area is home to magnificent archaeological sites and impressive Inca trails.
As we navigate through the valley, you will witness the well-preserved agricultural terraces. These terraces show how the Inca Empire rocked their agricultural game with advanced techniques. The tour guide will drop some knowledge bombs about the history and importance of these sites.
Following the exploration of the valley, we will board a train to Aguas Calientes, the nearest town to Machu Picchu. This train ride, through the heart of the Andean landscape, will be a memorable experience in itself.
The next day, you will visit Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This well-preserved city perched high in the Andes is truly a sight to behold. You will have the option to climb either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views.
We will return to Cusco, bringing our Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour to a close. This journey will provide a fascinating glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Inca Empire.
Embarking on the Tour, you will get a taste of rich Inca history in the Cusco Sacred Valley. You will explore ancient ruins, marvel at the exquisite landscape, and immerse yourself in vibrant local culture.
Our guides will share captivating tales of this region’s past. They will weave a narrative that brings the stones and vistas to life. You will learn about the innovative farming techniques of the Inca, as evidenced by the intricate terracing that punctuates the valley.
The second part of the adventure takes you to the world-renowned Machu Picchu. A scenic train ride will transport you from the valley to the base of Machu Picchu. The changing landscape outside your window will serve as a prelude to the grandeur that awaits at your destination.
Once at Machu Picchu, you will wander through the well-preserved remnants of this ancient civilization. You will stand in awe of their architectural prowess. You will carry with you memories of a lifetime and a deeper understanding of the Inca civilization.
Day 1 of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour will begin in Cusco. At 8:00 AM, we will head towards Pisac, located 33 kilometers (20.5 miles) away.
You will marvel at the verdant Sacred Valley, the agricultural hub of the Inca Empire. Upon arriving in Pisac, we will discover the bustling local market and the intricate Inca ruins. We will spend around three hours here.
Afterward, you will enjoy a leisurely lunch in a local restaurant. Then, a one-hour drive will take us to Ollantaytambo, another iconic town in the Sacred Valley. Here, you will roam around the old cobblestone streets and inspect the massive Inca. We will spend another three hours in Ollantaytambo.
Around 4:00 PM, we will head to the train station to catch the 1.5 hours train ride to Aguas Calientes. The tour includes train tickets. You will get your first glimpse of the mystical mountains that hide the ancient city of Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, we will check into a local hotel where you will spend the night.
The day tour to the citadel starts early. Around 5:30 AM, we will catch one of the first buses to Machu Picchu. It will allow us to see the sunrise over the sacred city. Do not worry, the tour includes the entrance fee to the citadel.
You will spend the morning exploring Machu Picchu, the crown jewel of Inca architecture. We will spend around three to four hours here.
By midday, you will have ample time to hike to the Sun Gate or the Inca Bridge. We will then catch the afternoon train back to Cusco. We will arrive in the evening, thus concluding your memorable two-day Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour.
Machu Picchu was constructed using a technique called “ashlar,” in which stones are cut to fit together without mortar. Remarkably, many of these stones weigh more than 50 tons, yet they are so precisely fitted together that you can’t even fit a piece of paper between them.
The most common way to reach Machu Picchu is by a combination of flying to Cusco and then taking a train to the town of Aguas Calientes at the base of the mountain. From there, a bus takes visitors up a winding road to the site. Another popular option is hiking the Inca Trail, which takes about four days and requires a permit.
The best time to visit Machu Picchu depends on your preferences. The dry season (May to November) offers better weather, but it’s also the busiest period. The wet season (December to April) is quieter but has more rainfall.
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Machu Picchu saw an average of about 1.5 million visitors each year. Visitor numbers can vary year by year due to factors like travel restrictions and changes in visitor management policies.
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is a must. Also, remember to wear good hiking shoes as the terrain can be quite rugged. As the weather can be unpredictable, it’s a good idea to bring layers and waterproof clothing.
Extraordinary journey through the heart of ancient Inca civilization. From exploring the awe-inspiring ruins of the Sacred Valley to the majestic wonder of Machu Picchu, the knowledgeable guides and seamless organization made this experience truly unforgettable. Highly recommended for history and nature enthusiasts.
