Machu Picchu and Highlights of Cusco

Complete Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour in 5 Days

This is the reason why immerse yourself in the heart of the ancient Inca civilization on this 5-day tour, exploring the Sacred Valley, the agricultural terraces of Maras-Moray, and the magnificent Machu Picchu.

Experience a deep dive into Inca culture as you travel through stunning landscapes, visit ancient archaeological sites, and uncover the rich history of Peru.

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco – Gateway to the Inca Empire

In addition your adventure starts the moment you land in Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire.

As soon as you arrive, a representative from Machupicchu Latin America warmly welcomes you and transfers you to your hotel in the city.

So during the short ride, they provide a detailed overview of your itinerary for the upcoming days, ensuring you feel well-prepared for the journey ahead.

Additionally, this is the perfect opportunity to ask any questions you may have, clarify details, and get expert recommendations for your stay.

Optional Activity: You can choose to explore Cusco on a city tour (at an additional cost), visiting attractions such as Sacsayhuaman, the Temple of the Sun, and the vibrant San Pedro Market.

• Overnight: Cusco
• Why Cusco is Special: Known as the navel of the world during the Inca era, Cusco is a blend of ancient Inca walls and Spanish colonial architecture.

Day 2: Maras-Moray, Chinchero, and Salt Mine Exploration (B)

Then after you enjoy a hearty breakfast, your guide picks you up for a scenic tour to the village of Chinchero.

And the famous for its traditional weaving techniques, this village offers you the chance to meet local women and observe their intricate craftsmanship.

This is way you also visit the Royal House of Tupac Inca Yupanqui, where the perfectly preserved Inca walls stand as a testament to the region’s rich history.

And after exploring Chinchero, you continue your journey to Maras to visit the fascinating archaeological site of Moray.

Here, you discover a series of circular terraces that the Incas ingeniously used as an agricultural laboratory, showcasing their advanced farming techniques.

Fun Fact: The concentric circles of Moray create different microclimates, enabling the Incas to experiment with various crops at different altitudes.

Next, you head to the impressive salt mines of Maras, where over 3,000 salt ponds have been in use since Inca times.

Here, you witness the traditional, manual salt extraction process that continues to this day. The breathtaking view of the salt terraces cascading down the mountainside makes this site a truly mesmerizing stop on your journey.

Overnight: Cusco

Highlights:

• Traditional textiles of Chinchero and preserved Inca architecture.
• The agricultural genius of the Incas at Moray.
• The ancient Salt Mines of Maras, still in use today.

Day 3: Sacred Valley Tour – Pisac and Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

One on that, your day starts with an early pick-up from your hotel as you set off on a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley.

Your first stop is Manos de la Comunidad, a wildlife rescue center where you meet llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas up close while learning about their importance in Andean culture.

As you descend into the Sacred Valley, you pause at the Taray viewpoint, where breathtaking panoramic views provide the perfect opportunity for stunning photographs of the valley’s rolling hills and picturesque landscapes.

Your next destination is the archaeological site of Pisac, a remarkable complex featuring impressive agricultural terraces and sacred Inca temples.

After exploring Pisac, you visit the Pisac Market, where you have the chance to interact with locals and browse a variety of handmade crafts, textiles, and souvenirs.

Following a delicious buffet lunch in Urubamba, your journey continues to Ollantaytambo, one of the last strongholds of the Inca Empire.

Here, you explore the Ollantaytambo fortress, famous for its massive stone terraces and the mystical Wiracocha rock formation, a site of great spiritual significance.

In other mathers from Ollantaytambo, you board the train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), traveling alongside the sacred Vilcanota River, surrounded by stunning Andean scenery.

As well as upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, you are escorted to your hotel, where you have the rest of the afternoon free to relax and prepare for your visit to Machu Picchu.

Overnight: Aguas Calientes

Why This Day is Magical:

• The sacred energy of the temples at Pisac.
• The impressive engineering of the Ollantaytambo fortress.
• The scenic train journey through the Andes, following the sacred river of the Incas.

Day 4: Guided Visit to Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco (B)

So today marks the highlight of your tour: Machu Picchu. After an early breakfast, you take a short bus ride to the entrance of the Lost City of the Incas, ready to explore one of the world’s most breathtaking archaeological wonders.

And your expert guide leads you through the ancient citadel, unveiling its fascinating history, intricate construction techniques, and the purpose behind its temples and terraces.

Anyway along the way, you discover the mysteries that still surround Machu Picchu, making this experience truly unforgettable.

Did You Know?

Fortunately many believe that Machu Picchu was a retreat for Inca royalty, and it is said that its stones emit spiritual energy.

Above all touching them is thought to strengthen the connection with the ancient civilization.

After the tour, you will have free time to explore on your own before returning to Aguas Calientes for lunch. In the afternoon, we will board the train to Ollantaytambo, where our driver will take you back to your hotel in Cusco.

Overnight: Cusco

Why Machu Picchu is Unforgettable:

• It is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and you will walk through its ancient terraces and temples.
• The energy and tranquility of the place leave a lasting impression.

Day 5: Departure from Cusco

In fact after breakfast, you will be transferred to Cusco Airport for your flight.

Your journey through the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu may have come to an end, but the memories will last a lifetime.

Why Choose This 5-Day Tour of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu?

• Rich Inca History: From the agricultural terraces of Maras to the fortresses of Ollantaytambo, every site you visit is filled with history and stories from the Inca Empire.
• Legendary Landscapes: The Sacred Valley is known for its stunning landscapes, from terraced fields to the towering mountains that surround it.
• Machu Picchu: No visit to Peru is complete without walking through the ancient corridors of this Inca city, built high in the Andes and shrouded in mystery.

This 5-day tour offers the perfect combination of adventure, history, and culture, making it an ideal way to discover the wonders of Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley.

Then whether you are fascinated by the ingenuity of Inca engineering or captivated by the natural beauty of the region, this journey will provide you with an unforgettable experience.

Complete Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour in 5 Days

If you’re looking for an incredible experience in a short time, this 5-day tour of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu is perfect. You’ll explore places rich in history, legends, and breathtaking landscapes. Let’s dive right into the adventure!

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco

The Essentials:

• Arrival in Cusco: You’ll be greeted at the airport and given a quick briefing about the journey. Then, we’ll take you to your hotel for check-in.
• Optional: You can enjoy a city tour of Cusco (at extra cost).

Why it’s important?
This day allows you to relax and acclimatize to the altitude in preparation for the coming adventures.

Day 2: Maras-Moray, Chinchero, and Salt Mines

The Essentials:

• Morning pickup: After breakfast, we’ll drive through Chinchero, known for its textiles, and then head to the Moray archaeological site, famous for its circular terraces.
• Fun fact: Moray was possibly an agricultural lab used by the Incas to experiment with different crops and microclimates.
• Salt Mines of Maras: Visit these stunning terraces where salt has been extracted since Inca times.

Why it’s fascinating?
Moray and the Salt Mines show the advanced agricultural techniques and resourcefulness of the Incas.

Day 3: Sacred Valley Tour – Pisac and Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

The Essentials:

• Departure at 7:00 am: We head to the Sacred Valley, stopping to see llamas and alpacas along the way.
• Pisac: Visit this ancient site, known for its terraces and stunning views.
• Pisac Legend: The princess Inkill Chumpi is said to have turned to stone to protect the valley.
• Ollantaytambo: Explore this Inca fortress, where warriors resisted the Spanish invasion.
• Ollantaytambo Myth: The story of the Inca warrior Ollantay who defied the emperor for love still resonates here.
• Train to Aguas Calientes: Enjoy a scenic ride along the Vilcanota River.

Why it’s unique?
This day combines history, breathtaking views, and Inca legends, with visits to some of the most important sites in the Sacred Valley.

Day 4: Machu Picchu Guided Tour

The Essentials:

• Early start: Between 6:30 and 7:00 am, we head up to Machu Picchu by bus.
• Guided tour of Machu Picchu: Discover the secrets of this wonder of the world with your expert guide.
• Machu Picchu Myth: Some believe the stones of Machu Picchu emit special energy that strengthens those who touch them.
• Free time in Aguas Calientes: Enjoy the town before taking the train back to Cusco.

Why it’s unforgettable?
Machu Picchu is more than just an archaeological site; it’s a spiritual experience filled with Inca symbolism.

Day 5: Departure from Cusco

The Essentials:

• Breakfast and airport transfer: After an unforgettable adventure, we’ll take you back to the airport in time for your flight.

Tips to make the most of your tour:

• Bring a fully charged camera: Every stop offers stunning views you’ll want to capture.
• Try local products in Pisac: The market is famous for fresh fruits and handmade crafts.
• Take time to relax in Aguas Calientes: Walk around town or enjoy the thermal baths.

This 5-day tour of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu is perfect for those who want to experience the wonders of the Incas in a short time, blending history, legend, and natural beauty into an unforgettable journey.

Includes / Does not Include

Includes:

• Airport/Hotel pick up and drop off (door to door service).
• 4 Night hotel with private bathrooms and breakfast included (at your selected hotel in Twin/Double – Single – Triple rooms).
• Chinchero, Maras-Moray and Salineras guided tour.
• Sacred valley guided tour.
• Machupicchu guided tour.
• Roundtrip train tickets (at your selected train class) Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo.
• Round trip bus tickets in Machupicchu (Aguas Calientes – Machupicchu – Aguas Calientes).
• All admission tickets including Machupicchu .
• Professional English speaking tour guide.
• Overland transportation for all transfers during the 5-day program.
• 1 Bottle of Water.

Does not Include:

• International and domestic air tickets.
• Waynapicchu admission ticket US$ 65, it must be requested at the time of your booking and will be provided if available .
• One-way Vistadome train upgrade US$ 55.
• Meals (Lunch, Dinner).
• Travel insurance (Highly recommended).
• Additional and personal expenses (laundry, telephone calls, snacks).
• Gratuity (optional).

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS