Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu: 5-Day Exclusive Journey
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5-Day Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Tour: Authentic Peru Experience
Embark on a 5-day exclusive tour to Peru’s enchanting Sacred Valley and the iconic Machu Picchu. This journey is perfect for those seeking a personalized, sustainable, and purposeful travel experience. Start in Cusco, and unveil the charms of the Sacred Valley, nestled between Ollantaytambo and Pisaq. Admire stunning views of the Andes Mountains, explore ancient Inca ruins, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of quaint green villages. Learn Quechua from welcoming locals and delve into Andean traditions. Your adventure peaks with a visit to Machu Picchu, a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site, where you’ll experience its historical magnificence firsthand. Travel by train around Machu Picchu, capturing the essence of this ancient wonder. Conclude your journey in Cusco, enriched by cultural discoveries, before a seamless departure and layover in Lima. Join us for an authentic, captivating exploration of Peru’s most treasured sites.
Highlights
- Sacred Valley’s Incan Heritage: Discover the Sacred Valley, a picturesque region nestled between Ollantaytambo and Pisaq, adorned with ancient Inca ruins and breathtaking Andes Mountains vistas.
- Machu Picchu’s Mystical Majesty: Experience the highlight of your tour at Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its historical significance and stunning Incan architecture.
- Cultural Immersion in Cusco: Immerse in the rich history and vibrant culture of Cusco, exploring its blend of Incan and colonial influences and engaging with local Andean communities.
- Andean Traditions and Scenery: Journey through Peru’s heartland, learning Quechua from locals, and relishing the unique landscapes and traditions that define the Andean way of life.
Brief Itinerary
Day 1 – Cusco Bound
Unveiling the Sacred Valley’s Charms Arrive in Cusco, the historic gateway to the Sacred Valley. Your journey begins with an exploration of this enchanting valley, renowned for its stunning Andean landscapes, rich Inca heritage, and charming villages like Ollantaytambo and Pisaq.
Day 2 – Andean Cultural Journey in Sacred Valley
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the Sacred Valley. Visit local communities, learn about traditional Andean crafts, and explore ancient Incan sites. The day offers a deep dive into the heart of Andean traditions and history.
Day 3 – Machu Picchu Expedition
A Day of Wonder Experience the pinnacle of your journey with a visit to Machu Picchu. Marvel at this iconic UNESCO World Heritage site, exploring its ancient ruins and absorbing its mystical aura set against a breathtaking mountain backdrop.
Day 4 – Cusco Unveiled
A Day of Cultural Discovery Return to Cusco and spend the day discovering its cultural riches. Explore historic sites, wander through cobbled streets, and experience the unique blend of Inca and Spanish colonial influences that define this ancient city.
Day 5 – Seamless Departure & Lima Layover
Depart Cusco with Ease Conclude your Peruvian adventure with a seamless departure from Cusco. Enjoy a brief layover in Lima, reflecting on your enriching journey through the heart of Inca civilization before your onward travel.
Prices for this trip
Hotel Category | Double or Triple room | Single room Additional cost |
---|---|---|
Superior Tourist | US$ 1382 | US$ 185 |
First Class | US$ 1510 | US$ 347 |
* Minimum 2 passengers to confirm the booking; solo traveler is subject to an additional fee.
* Private tour; do not join other travelers; exclusive tour with a private guide and private mobility, whether traveling alone, with family, or with friends.
Includes and excludes
Included
- Comfortable Accommodation: Enjoy a comfortable stay for 4 nights in Sacred Valley and Cusco hotels, with breakfast included.
- No Hidden Costs: Your journey comes without surprise expenses—every admission fee for Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and the iconic Machu Picchu is included.
- Expert Local Guides: Knowledgeable English-speaking local guides will lead your tours.
- Hassle-Free Transfers: We provide all necessary transfers, including airport, train station, bus station transfers, and hotel pickups and drop-offs.
- Efficient Train Travel: Journey smoothly with a train ticket for the Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo route (Vistadome train).
- Culinary Delights: Savor mouthwatering meals as per your itinerary, with special dietary options available upon request.
- Convenient Ground Transportation: Enjoy reliable ground transportation services for the duration of your adventure.
- Round-the-Clock Support: Our local staff is available 24/7 to provide you with any necessary assistance.
Not Included
- Flights: Both domestic and international flights are not covered. For flight arrangements, please consult a travel agency if needed.
- Visa and Insurance: Procedures related to visas, travel insurance, and any pre- or post-tour accommodation are not included.
- Personal Expenses: Any additional personal expenses such as alcoholic beverages and laundry are not covered.
- Gratuities: Gratuities for tour guides, drivers, and support staff are not included in the price.
- Language Guidance: If you require guidance in a language other than English (e.g., German, French), please inquire with your travel agent.
- Additional Items: Costs related to items that are not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary description are not included.
- Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain: Entrance fees for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are also not covered.
Trip code: TSVMAPI05-PVT
Day 1: Cusco Bound: Unveiling the Sacred Valley’s Charms
- Cusco Welcome: Upon landing in Cusco, our expert guide will be eagerly awaiting your arrival. We’ll make a brief stop in the charming town of Pisac, en route from the airport, where you’ll relish a delightful lunch.
- Pisac Adventure: Post-lunch, embark on a captivating visit to the Pisac market and its ancient archaeological site, perched atop a mountain. Here, you’ll have the unique opportunity to witness the extraordinary stonemasonry skills of our Incan ancestors firsthand.
- Market Marvels: After exploring the mountaintop marvels, we’ll descend into the quaint town, where you can leisurely stroll through its vibrant market. Don’t miss the chance to acquire exquisite, locally handcrafted goods.
- Sacred Valley Retreat: To conclude your day’s adventures, we’ll transfer you to your comfortable hotel nestled in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
- Stay the Night at Sacred Valley Hotel
- Meals: Lunch.
Day 2: Andean Cultural Journey in Sacred Valley
- Experience the rich cultural tapestry and agricultural brilliance of the Sacred Valley with this exclusive, private tour, ensuring a memorable and immersive journey into the heart of Andean traditions.
- Agricultural Marvels: Start your day with a hearty hotel breakfast, followed by a 09:00 hotel pickup. Venture to the awe-inspiring Moray archaeological site (3,176m/10,419ft). Explore the colossal circular and semi-circular terraces, once a botanical laboratory for innovative plant domestication and adaptation experiments. These terraces may have cultivated over 3,000 plant varieties, including staples like potatoes and maize.
- Vibrant Village Encounter: The highlight of the day awaits in the charming community of Chinchero, just a 15-minute drive from Moray. Be embraced by authentic Andean hospitality as you’re greeted with traditional Quechua music and a sip of muña tea. Immerse yourself in local life, partake in daily activities, and relish a delectable meal crafted from indigenous ingredients. Discover ancient agricultural techniques and tools still in use.
- Local Food Festival: Imagine being part of a culinary tradition dating back to the Incas. Experience a unique opportunity to cook Pachamanca, the legendary dish of the Incas, in a hand-built stone oven, under the expert guidance of the locals. Savor native flavors with fresh ingredients from the area: pork, chicken, lamb, guinea pig, and a selection of Andean tubers. This is more than just a simple dish; it’s a celebration of history, culture, and community. Immerse yourself in a culinary experience that will not only delight your senses but also connect you with the rich heritage of a community dedicated to keeping its traditions alive.
- Weaving Wonders: Witness the mesmerizing artistry of skilled weavers who employ time-honored techniques. A captivating weaving demonstration showcases the intricate transformation of alpaca and sheep wool into exquisite fabrics. Dive into the world of natural dyes, and gain a deep appreciation for the meticulous craftsmanship involved in every tapestry, from spinning to weaving.
- Tour Conclusion: The tour ends around 16:30, leaving you with a profound connection to the Andean cultural heritage.
- Stay the Night at Sacred Valley Hotel.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
Day 3: Machu Picchu Expedition: A Day of Wonder
- A Thrilling Start: Fuel up with a hearty hotel breakfast, then at 06:45, brace yourself for an exciting day as you’re whisked away from your hotel to Ollantaytambo train station.
- Scenic Train Journey: Embark on a scenic train voyage bound for the charming Machu Picchu Pueblo, also known as Aguas Calientes.
- Unveiling the Marvel: Arriving at 09:30, hop onto a bus that will transport you to the legendary Machu Picchu archaeological site (2,430m/7,972ft). This awe-inspiring wonder, UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983 and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World since 2007, deserves every accolade.
- Guided Exploration: Commencing around 11:00, your knowledgeable guide will lead you through the mesmerizing ruins and main streets of Machu Picchu. Wander around town squares and ascend intricately carved stone stairways. According to esoteric wisdom, Machu Picchu holds the esteemed title of the world’s spiritual center.
- Two-Hour Insight: The guided tour unfolds over approximately two hours, providing an in-depth understanding of this ancient sanctuary’s history and significance.
- Homeward Journey: Between 13:30 and 14:00, embark on a scenic bus ride back to Aguas Calientes, where a delightful culinary experience awaits.
- Local Gastronomy: From 14:00 to 15:30, relish a delectable lunch at a local restaurant in Aguas Calientes, savoring the regional flavors.
- Return to Cusco: As the day draws to a close, board a train for the return trip to the historic city of Cusco. Upon arriving at Ollantaytambo station, you’ll be smoothly transported back to your Cusco hotel.
- Train Schedule: Ollantaytambo (07:45) – Aguas Calientes (09:15)
- Train Schedule: Aguas Calientes (16:43) – Ollantaytambo (18:22)
- Stay the Night at Cusco Hotel.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
Day 4: Cusco Unveiled: A Day of Cultural Discovery
- Experience the vibrant history and stunning architecture of Cusco with this exclusive, private tour, ensuring a memorable and immersive day of cultural Discovery.
- Morning Freedom: After enjoying a delectable hotel breakfast, your morning is free to explore Cusco at your own pace or simply relax and rejuvenate.
- Afternoon Adventure: At 14:00, the day’s excitement begins with a hotel pickup. The journey kicks off at the vibrant San Pedro market, an authentic window into daily life in Cusco. Delve into the heart of Cusquean culture as you wander through narrow aisles brimming with colorful textiles, flavorful cuisine, fresh fruit juices, aromatic bread, and intriguing shaman stalls. Your knowledgeable guide will weave tales of the market’s rich history.
- Colonial Elegance: Next, head to Cusco’s main square, the bustling epicenter of the city’s colonial charm. Stroll along wide stone pathways and admire well-maintained, colorful gardens, soaking in the vivacity of this central hub.
- Golden History: Continue your journey with a visit to Qorikancha, where the enchanting Santo Domingo Convent graces the site of an ancient Incan temple. It’s said that the temple was adorned entirely in gold, leaving countless invaders spellbound upon their arrival. Tradition holds that the temple’s opulence knew no bounds.
- Inca Grandeur Unearthed: Embark on an unforgettable journey to Sacsayhuaman, an astounding Inca architectural marvel that graces the hilltops above Cusco. Encounter monumental megalithic ruins, standing proudly as a testament to the incredible craftsmanship of the Inca civilization.
- Cusco’s Hidden Gems: As you ascend to the summit of this historic hill, be prepared to be captivated by the awe-inspiring panoramic vistas that stretch before you. Gaze upon the enchanting city of Cusco, where the ancient past intertwines gracefully with the vibrant present.
- The tour will end around 18:00.
- Stay the Night at Cusco Hotel.
- Meals: Breakfast.
Day 5: Seamless Departure & Lima Layover: Depart Cusco with Ease
- Effortless Farewell: Bid Cusco adieu in style and comfort as we meticulously orchestrate every aspect of your departure. From your relaxing morning and hearty breakfast to a seamless transfer to the airport, leave the details to us.
- Lima’s Allure: During your journey home, enjoy a captivating layover in Lima, a city celebrated for its vibrant culture and culinary wonders. Immerse yourself in the charm of this coastal metropolis, savoring the last moments of your Peruvian Adventure.
- Meals: Breakfast.