Sacred Valley and Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Embark on an Epic 3-Day Adventure: Sacred Valley, Inca Trail, and Machu Picchu

Day 1: Explore the Sacred Valley - Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Aguas Calientes

Your journey begins with a hearty breakfast, followed by pick-up at your hotel between 7:00 am and 7:30 am. From here, we embark on an unforgettable trip through the majestic Sacred Valley. As we leave Cusco, we'll pass by ancient Inca sites like Sacsayhuaman and Puca Pucara, marveling at their incredible stonework.

Our first stop is Manos de la Comunidad, a rescue center where you'll meet alpacas, llamas, and vicuñas animals revered by the Incas for their wool. We continue to the Taray lookout, offering panoramic views of the lush Sacred Valley this is the perfect spot for classic photos that capture the valley's beauty.

Next, we arrive at the Pisac Inca site, a fascinating place where you'll learn about Incan agriculture and admire the impressive temples, altars, and channels. After the tour, we head to the traditional Pisac market, where you can interact with locals and shop for unique handicrafts.

By midday, we stop for a buffet lunch in Urubamba (not included), set against the stunning backdrop of Andean mountains. The afternoon takes us to Ollantaytambo, one of the most important Inca citadels. Here, you'll stand in awe of the massive terraces and learn about the site's spiritual significance, including the rock formations symbolizing the Inca god Wiracocha.

• Legend: According to local myths, Wiracocha, the god of creation, crafted the rock formations at Ollantaytambo as a reminder of his power.

After an exciting day, we transfer you to your hotel in either Ollantaytambo or Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), where you can relax and enjoy the evening at your leisure.

Overnight: Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo)

Day 2: Inca Trail from Km 104 to Machu Picchu via Wiñay Wayna and the Sun Gate

Today is the start of your Inca Trail adventure! After an early breakfast, we'll pick you up at 6:00 am and head to the station for a scenic Train ride along the Vilcanota River to Km 104, where the hike begins. Upon arrival, you'll cross a bridge over the Urubamba River and visit the charming Chachabamba ruins, a lesser-known Inca site featuring water channels and fountains.

After exploring Chachabamba, we start the uphill hike, which takes approximately 3.5 hours to reach Wiñay Wayna (meaning "forever young"). This impressive archaeological site features agricultural terraces and ceremonial sectors, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. We'll enjoy a box lunch here and rest before continuing on.

Our hike continues for about another hour until we reach the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you will be rewarded with your first glimpse of Machu Picchu from a stunning vantage point. This is a moment to take in the Lost City of the Incas slowly reveals itself beneath the morning mist.

From here, we descend for around 40 minutes to the citadel of Machu Picchu, where we'll take some time for photos before boarding the bus to Aguas Calientes. The rest of the evening is yours to explore Machu Picchu Pueblo at leisure, enjoy dinner, or visit the local hot springs.

• Curious Fact: Wiñay Wayna was likely an agricultural hub that supplied food to Machu Picchu. Its terraces, still visible today, were vital to the Inca Empire's food production.

Total distance: 13 km (8.08 miles), Walking time: 6-7 hours, Altitude gain: 600m

Overnight: Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo)

Day 3: Machu Picchu - A Guided Exploration of the Ancient Inca Citadel

After breakfast, get ready to experience the crown jewel of your journey Machu Picchu. Between 6:30 am and 7:00 am, our guide will meet you at your hotel, and we'll board the bus for a 30-minute ride up the mountain.

Upon arrival, you'll enter the Inca citadel, where our professional guide will lead you on an immersive tour. As we explore, you'll learn about the history, mysteries, and cultural significance of this ancient city, built in the mid-15th century but hidden from the world until its rediscovery in 1911.

• Myth: Some locals believe that Machu Picchu was a sacred retreat for the Inca elite and that its unique location in the Andes holds spiritual power, harnessing the energy of the surrounding mountains.

You'll visit important landmarks such as the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana Stone, and the Temple of the Three Windows. After the tour, take some free time to explore on your own or relax while taking in the magical views.

In the afternoon, we'll return to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included) and allow time for some last-minute souvenir shopping before boarding the Train back to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, our private transport will drive you back to your hotel in Cusco, marking the end of your unforgettable journey.

Overnight: Cusco

This 3-day adventure is an immersive journey through some of the most iconic and sacred sites in Peru. From the Sacred Valley's Inca ruins to the world-famous Machu Picchu, each day brings a deeper connection to the Inca civilization and the natural beauty of the Andes.

Itinerary

Complete 3-Day Sacred Valley, Inca Trail, and Machu Picchu Tour Itinerary

This 3-day adventure takes you through the stunning landscapes of the Sacred Valley, on a historic trek along the Inca Trail, and finally to the legendary Machu Picchu. It's the perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.

Day 1: Sacred Valley Tour - Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Aguas Calientes

• Hotel pick-up: Between 7:00 am and 7:30 am.
• Manos de la Comunidad Rescue Center: Meet alpacas, llamas, and vicuñas.
• Taray Lookout: Take in panoramic views of the Sacred Valley.
• Pisac Ruins and Market: Explore the Pisac Inca site and shop for local handicrafts.
• Lunch in Urubamba (not included): Enjoy a buffet lunch in the Sacred Valley.
• Ollantaytambo Fortress: Visit this impressive Inca citadel and learn about Inca god Wiracocha.
• Arrival in Aguas Calientes: Settle into your hotel for an evening at leisure.

Why it's special?
This day combines Inca history with vibrant local culture and the breathtaking landscapes of the Sacred Valley. From the terraces of Pisac to the mighty ruins of Ollantaytambo, you'll experience the ingenuity of the Inca Empire.

Day 2: Inca Trail - Wiñay Wayna and the Sun Gate

• Hotel pick-up: At 6:00 am, we'll take the train to Km 104, where the hike begins.
• Chachabamba Inca Site: Visit this lesser-known Inca site before beginning the hike.
• Hike to Wiñay Wayna: Trek upwards for 3.5 hours to reach Wiñay Wayna, an impressive Inca agricultural center.
• Lunch at Wiñay Wayna: Enjoy a boxed lunch while taking in the views.
• Sun Gate (Inti Punku): Arrive at the Sun Gate for your first view of Machu Picchu.
• Descent to Machu Picchu: Continue down to Machu Picchu before taking the bus to Aguas Calientes.

Why it's a highlight?
This day offers the thrill of hiking the famous Inca Trail, with the reward of seeing Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate an unforgettable experience. The hike is rich in history, including visits to Wiñay Wayna and the Sun Gate, giving you a unique entrance into the citadel.

Day 3: Machu Picchu Guided Tour - Return to Cusco

• Hotel pick-up: Between 6:30 am and 7:00 am.
• Bus to Machu Picchu: A 30-minute ride up the mountain.
• Guided tour of Machu Picchu: Explore the iconic Inca ruins with your guide, visiting key spots like the Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana stone, and more.
• Return to Aguas Calientes: Free time for lunch (not included) and souvenir shopping.
• Train back to Ollantaytambo: Board the Train to Ollantaytambo, where your transport will take you back to Cusco.

Why it's unforgettable?
A full-day visit to Machu Picchu is the ultimate highlight, giving you plenty of time to learn about the Inca citadel's rich history and explore its hidden corners. It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience to walk in the footsteps of the Incas.

Includes / Does not Include

Included

• Hotel pick up and drop off (door to door service)
• 2 Night hotel with private bathrooms and breakfast included (at your selected hotel in Twin/Double - Single - Triple rooms)
• Sacred valley guided tour
• One day Inca Trail hike
• Machupicchu guided tour
• Roundtrip train tickets (at your selected train class) Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo
• Bus tickets (Aguas Calientes - Machupicchu - Aguas Calientes)
• Admission ticket to the Inca Trail
• Professional English-speaking tour guide
• Overland transportation for all transfers during the 2-day program
• 1 Bottle of Water
• Airport pick up (up to request)

Not Included:

• International and domestic air tickets
• Sacred valley admission ticket (70 Peruvian sol cash)
• 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)

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