SACRED VALLEY AND MACHU PICCHU TRIP – 2 DAYS

The Sacred Valley of the Incas and Machu Picchu stand as two of the most iconic and awe-inspiring destinations in Peru, offering a deep immersion into the history, culture, and natural splendor of the ancient Inca civilization.

Located just outside of Cusco, the Sacred Valley is a lush and fertile region dotted with remarkable archaeological sites, traditional Andean villages, and breathtaking mountain scenery. Highlights of the valley include Pisac, famous for its majestic agricultural terraces and colorful artisan market; Ollantaytambo, one of the last living Inca towns and home to an impressive fortress; and the fascinating sites of Moray and Maras, known for their mysterious circular terraces and salt mines carved into the mountainside.

Further along this historical trail lies the crown jewel of the Inca Empire: Machu Picchu. Known as the “Lost City of the Incas,” this legendary citadel, nestled in the cloud forest, Its masterfully crafted stone temples, royal quarters, and agricultural terraces reflect the genius of Inca architecture. Notable spots within the site include the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana Stone, and opportunities to hike to Huayna Picchu or the Sun Gate for panoramic views of the entire complex.

Exploring the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu over two unforgettable days offers a perfect balance of history, adventure, and natural beauty  a truly enriching journey into the soul of the Andes and the legacy of the Incas.

DAY 1: PISAC – MORAY – MARAS – SALT PONDS – OLLANTAYTAMBO – AGUAS CALIENTES

Our guide will pick you up from your hotel at 7:00 a.m. in our private transportation, beginning the journey from Cusco to the stunning Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Our first stop will be at the Taray viewpoint, where you’ll enjoy a magnificent panoramic view of the Sacred Valley, the Urubamba River, and the agricultural terraces of Pisac our first archaeological site of the day.

Next, we’ll head to Pisac, perched on a mountainside above the town. This site features impressive agricultural terraces, ceremonial temples, and over 2,000 ancient tombs carved into the hills. It is believed to have served religious, military, and agricultural purposes. We’ll explore this remarkable Inca complex for approximately two hours, followed by a visit to the Pisac Market, a vibrant and colorful space where you can experience local culture and shop for traditional handicrafts. We will spend about 30 minutes here.

Afterwards, we’ll drive to Urubamba, where you’ll have time to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant (not included).

Our adventure continues with a visit to the archaeological site of Moray, known for its unusual circular terraces. These concentric terraces served as an agricultural laboratory, allowing the Incas to experiment with various crops and microclimates. Moray is a prime example of the Incas’ advanced agricultural engineering and deep understanding of ecology.

Next, we’ll visit the Maras salt mines, a unique and historic site in the Sacred Valley. This impressive network of thousands of salt pools, carved into the mountainside, has been in continuous use since Inca times. Fed by a natural underground spring, the pools produce a distinctive pinkish salt through evaporation. Today, the mines are still operated by local families, preserving an ancient tradition that endures through generations.

Our final stop is the majestic town of Ollantaytambo, one of the most important archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley. This remarkable complex showcases massive terraces, temples, and finely carved stone structures that reflect the advanced engineering skills of the Incas. It was once a strategic military, agricultural, and religious center and today, it’s also the main gateway to Machu Picchu, featuring a charming historic town and the train station.

After some free time for dinner, we’ll board the train to Aguas Calientes. The train departs Ollantaytambo at 7:04 p.m. and arrives in Aguas Calientes at 8:45 p.m., where you’ll spend the night in our hotel.

.Accommodation: Hotel

.Difficulty Day: Easy

.Start End Time: 07:00 am – 07:00 pm

.Meals: Dinner

DAY 2: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

The second day brings the moment you’ve been waiting for  the chance to explore one of the most magical and iconic places in the world: Machu Picchu.

This awe-inspiring 15th-century Inca citadel, nestled high in the Andes Mountains of Peru, is often referred to as the “Lost City of the Incas.” Built during the reign of Emperor Pachacuti, it stands as a brilliant example of ancient architecture and engineering. With its finely crafted stone temples, agricultural terraces, and breathtaking mountain views, Machu Picchu is a true masterpiece. Rediscovered by Hiram Bingham in 1911, it is now recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

We’ll spend approximately three hours exploring the citadel with our expert guide. Key highlights include the Guardian’s House, the Temple of the Sun, the sacred water fountains, the Temple of Mother Earth (Pachamama), and many other mystical and historically significant sites that reveal the spiritual depth of the Inca civilization.

After the guided tour, we’ll return to Aguas Calientes. If time allows, you can browse the artisan market or unwind at the local hot springs. Enjoy lunch at your preferred restaurant before heading to the train station.

In the afternoon, we’ll board the Expedition train back to Ollantaytambo, departing at either 2:55 p.m. or 3:20 p.m. The journey follows the scenic path of the Urubamba River, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and archaeological remains nestled along the route.

Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, our private transportation will be waiting to take you back to Cusco. We expect to arrive at your hotel around 7:30 p.m., concluding an unforgettable experience at one of the world’s greatest wonders.

.Difficulty Day: Easy

.Meals: Breakfast