Sacred Valley of the Incas and Machu Picchu 2 Days

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Culture

Adventure

Immersion

Escape to Cuzco to visit the Sacred Valley of the Incas and Machu Picchu, the historical legacy of the Incas.

If your stay in Cusco is very short, we suggest you visit the Sacred Valley on day one, then next day a guided tour of Machu Picchu citadel. This excursion will allow you to visit two typical Incas villages of the Sacred Valley such as Pisac, famous for its handicraft market, and Ollantaytambo, the unique and original Inca town that keeps the Inca design. The second day will be dedicated to visit the archaeological site of Machu Picchu.

Tour highlights!

Explore the Sacred Valley in all its splendor, surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich history, where the legacy of the Inca culture is still palpable.
Discover Moray, an archaeological marvel featuring enormous natural depressions used by the Incas for agricultural experiments on their iconic circular terraces.
Experience the charm of two picturesque villages in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, where you can admire local handicrafts, Inca architecture, and indulge in delicious local cuisine.
Visit the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, the crown jewel of Peru’s ancient architectural legacy, and marvel at its historical significance and breathtaking beauty.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Cusco - Sacred Valley of the Incas – Inkariy museum – Aguas Calientes town

Breakfast at your hotel. At 8:00 am, a private transport and your guide will pick you up at the hotel to go to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Discover Pisaq village (2,972 m) and its colorful local craft market where hundreds of artisans offer their products and then, Pisac (3,272 m) archaeological site is on top of a mountain that is accessible by car or through the Inca Trail, which is part of a historical and cultural site at its best built with every rich piece of the Sacred Valley and Inca communities.
Right away, we will stop at the Inkariy Museum, where we can travel through time discovering the history of Peru, which not only includes the splendorous Inca Empire, but also includes Caral, Chavin, Paracas, Moche, Nasca, Wari, Lambayeque and Chimu, societies exposed within a chronological tour of the different civilizations of Perú ancient. In the Sacred Valley we will have the chance to taste the local Peruvian gastronomy.

Continuing on the trip, we will stop in Ollantaytambo, which is considered the last Inca town thanks to its houses and narrow streets, remains of Inca constructions, as well as the archaeological complex. In the afternoon, we will board the train to Aguas Calientes town located at the foot of Machu Picchu, where we will spend the night.

Transportation time : 4h approx.
Visiting time: 5h.
Difficulty level: easy
Meals: L = lunch, D = dinner
Overnight: hotel
Climate: cold and warm with mosquitoes
Elevation: Cusco (3,400m) – Tambomachay (3,700m) – Pisac (2,972m) – Urubamba (2,871m) – Ollantaytambo (2,800m).

Day 2: Aguas Calientes town – Machu Picchu, the historical legacy of the Incas

After breakfast. Early in the morning we will board the bus to Machu Picchu citadel. The sunrise and our professional guide will take you to visit the archaeological site, for approximately 3 hours, to learn more about the daily life and culture of the Incas. After the guided tour, you will enjoy the magic of the historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu for taking some pictures in memory of your own experience. Lunch at an exclusive restaurant of your choice.

Later, we return to Aguas Calientes town to board the train to Ollantaytambo/Poroy, where our transportation will be waiting to bring you back to your hotel in Cusco.

Transportation time: 3h 30
Visiting time: 2h-3h.
Difficulty level: easy
Meals: L = lunch, D = dinner
Overnight: on your own
Climate: warm with mosquitoes.
Elevation: Ollantaytambo (2,800m) – Aguas Calientes (2,050m) – Machu Picchu (2,400m).

Informative briefing in your accommodation 1 or 2 days before the tour. We’ll confirm the details after booking is made.
Transportation: Private transport from your accommodation in Cusco to the Sacred Valley.
Expedition train tickets* from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes town.
Expedition train tickets* from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo/Poroy and transportation to Cusco. Drop off at your accommodation.
Round trip bus tickets Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu citadel - Aguas Calientes town.
Entrance fees to the sites, also called Boleto Turistico. This ticket allows you to go to Pisac, Maras Moray, Chinchero and Ollantaytambo of the Sacred Valley. It’s valid for 2 days.
Entrance fees to Machu Picchu citadel.
Professional, bilingual tour guide (English-Spanish). For other languages contact us in advance. Bear in mind there may be extra charges.
Hotel in Machu Picchu town in a private room, including breakfast.
Lunch in the Sacred Valley.
A dinner in Machu Picchu town.
First aid kit, including oximeter and thermometer and oxygen bottle.

Train services included
- If you are looking for an adventure on your way to Machu Picchu at an unbeatable price, the Peru Rail Expedition train has just what you need, with all the on-board services you could wish for.
- (*) The carriages of the Peru Rail Expedition train are infused with the designs of the Inca culture, making them the perfect way to begin your journey to the citadel of Machu Picchu. Peru Rail Expedition gives you the opportunity to enjoy the incredible scenery and take amazing panoramic photographs of a journey like no other.
Recommendations
- The trip previously described may vary due to weather conditions, landslides, participants walking pace or other factors. Our professional guide will make the right and best decisions along the way for the benefit and safety of the group.
Optional services to be hired
- To make the most of Machu Picchu, we suggest having the buffet lunch at the Tinkuy Sanctuary Lodge restaurant, located right next to the archaeological site. We also recommend the buffet lunch option at El Mapi hotel Machu Picchu by Inkaterra in Aguas Calientes.
- Optional train services: It is possible to travel in a superior luxury category on the Vistadome or Hiram Bingham trains; contact us for more information.
- On Demand – Vistadome Train: The «Vistadome» train offers you breathtaking views during your journey to Cusco, offers fashion shows, dinners, a refined service and premium travel conditions. In addition, the carriage is built with large windows that offer unparalleled panoramic views and the possibility to take beautiful photographs. The Vistadome also has air-conditioning and heating, and ergonomic leather seats that are very comfortable after so many hours of walking. The Vistadome offers you a first class service, which will allow you to immerse yourself in the Andean culture, through the landscapes, the music, the dance and even the food carefully prepared with local ingredients.
- On Demand – Hiram Bingham Train: The Hiram Bingham Train category is optional and it is a luxury service of the Orient Express, operated by the company «Peru Rail». You will experience an exceptional journey. The Hiram Bingham carriages are distinguished by their blue and gold colour, their warm and cosy interior and their elegant upholstery. The service includes 4 carriages, 2 restaurant carriages, as well as a panoramic view carriage with bar. Brunch and dinner on board are also included.

For the optional services, contact our staff to check availability.

What we recommend that you bring

An ergonomic day backpack for hiking with waterproof cover (30 or 40 liters).
Clothing for cold and hot weather.
Waterproof jacket, light pants, rain poncho, hat or cap.
Hiking shoes or waterproof running shoes.
Flip flops or sandals (for showers and hot springs in Aguas Calientes)
Wool or cotton socks.
T-shirts with short and long sleeves.
Towel easy dry and swimsuit (in case you want to relax in the hot mineral spring).
Sun block.
Anti-mosquito spray – minimum recommended 20% DEET (non-toxic – we suggest nature-friendly repellents). No malaria risk has been reported.
Anti-itch cream.
Disinfectant hand gel.
Toilet paper.
Bottles of water and sterilization tablets
Toiletries.
Camera (wrapped in a plastic pouch).
Flashlight with batteries.
Snacks, like chocolate bars and dried fruits.
Original passport.
Original ISIC Student Card (in case you have applied for a student discount).
Extra money in soles.
Optional: walking sticks or poles with rubber covers required in order not to damage the Inca Trail

During high season (May to September), it is difficult to ensure the exact date of entry, due to the restrictions set by the Ministry of Culture to limit the number of entries to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu; therefore, the date of entry to the Inca Trail could vary for one or two days; then we will adapt the program so you can make the most of it.

Entrance tickets to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain: To hike up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain, it is required to book well in advance, because the entrance tickets are limited to a certain number of people daily. Therefore, we’ll take care of the reservation and confirm your entrance with an additional charge of $30 USD per person.

Note: If you wish to visit any of the extra mountains, please inform us in due time before purchasing the entrance tickets to the Machu Picchu citadel.

A solidarity trip: most of the communities in the area are very poor and live off agriculture and cattle farming. Our agency is always collaborating, and your voluntary help would be also much appreciated.

Trips : : for guide tips are always welcome.

Cancellation policy: For any cancellation; the costs already incurred by the travel agency will be at your expense. For more details on the cost of cancellations by certain participants, please refer to articles 6, 6.4 and our cancellation policies in the.

For more information, you may wish to check or consult our FAQ, Safe and Healthy Travel, and Flexible Booking with Explorandino.

In December 2021, Explorandino obtained the TourCert certification for its “Sustainable Management System for Tour Operators” guided by the criteria and guidelines of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC).

Our approach highlights the richness of culture and natural beauty. Each tourist experience is a chance to preserve and showcase cultural heritage while promoting practices that regenerate the natural environment

We collaborate closely with diverse stakeholders to develop a model that benefits all. From respecting local communities to conserving biodiversity, each action represents a stride toward more responsible tourism.

Why Book Early?

Spots for the best Inca Trail & Machu Picchu experiences fill up fast! Secure your visit to the essential Inca Trail campsites perfect for better enjoying nature, visiting less crowded historical monuments, and capturing stunning photos and videos.
To protect the Inca Trail, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since June 21, 2014, the Peruvian government has set strict visitor limits. These restrictions ensure the preservation of this iconic destination for future generations, making early booking essential to secure your spot. Don’t miss out—book now to guarantee your adventure.

Updated Machu Picchu Circuits for Better Visitor Management

The Ministry of Culture of Peru has revised the circuits in the Inca city of Machu Picchu to enhance visitor capacity management. Effective from June 1st to October 15th, and on December 30th and 31st, 2024, three new circuits comprising 10 different routes will be in place to explore Machu Picchu. These new routes aim to streamline visits and offer a better experience while preserving the integrity of this ancient site.

Visitor Capacity and Booking Details

Machu Picchu Citadel:

Daily Capacity: Ministerial Resolution N° 000528-2023-MC allows up to 4,500 visitors per day, with a potential increase to 5,600 during high season(May to September). To secure your spot, especially during peak season, book at least 3 months in advance.
Low Season (October to April): Although there may be more availability, it’s always wise to book ahead to ensure your preferred date and time.

Tourist Circuits:

Machu Picchu offers several circuits to manage the visitor flow and enhance your experience:

Circuit 1 (Panoramic)
This circuit offers the iconic postcard photo from the Guardian’s House viewpoint, with panoramic views of the main Inca structures. It is divided into 4 optional routes:
- Route 1-A: Machu Picchu Mountain – Visit the Lower and Upper Platforms for views of the Vilcanota River, Waynapicchu Mountain, and the urban zone, then continue towards Machu Picchu Mountain.
- Route 1-B: Upper Terrace – Explore the Lower and Upper Platforms with views of the Vilcanota River, Waynapicchu Mountain, and the urban area.
- Route 1-C: Intipunku Gate (available only in high season) – Start at the Lower and Upper Platforms for scenic views, then proceed to the Intipunku Gate.
- Route 1-D: Inca Bridge (available only in high season) – Begin with the Lower and Upper Platforms, followed by a path to the Inca Bridge, offering picturesque views of the Cusco rainforest.

Circuit 2 (Classic Machu Picchu)
Explore the classic route through the entire Machu Picchu citadel, perfect for capturing the iconic photo of the city. This circuit is divided into 2 sub-routes:
- Route 2-A: Designed Route – Includes the Temple of the Sun viewpoint, Plaza of the Temples, Sacred Rock, and the water mirrors complex.
- Route 2-B: Lower Terrace Route – Covers the Lower Platform, Granite Chaos, Plaza of the Temples, Sacred Rock, and the water mirrors complex.

Circuit 3 (Royal Machu Picchu)
Discover the lower sections of the archaeological site with this circuit, offering four optional routes to explore prominent features like the summit of Huayna Picchu, the Great Cavern, or Huchuy Picchu:

- Route 3-A: Huayna Picchu Route – Begin with the Agricultural Sector, Temple of the Sun, Inca’s House, ceremonial fountains, and the Three Doorways sector. Continue to Huayna Picchu Mountain (2.4 km round trip). On the return, visit the Temple of the Condor and the water mirrors complex.
- Route 3-B: Designed Royalty Route – Explore the Agricultural Sector, Temple of the Sun, Inca’s House, ceremonial fountains, Three Doorways sector, the water mirrors complex, and the Temple of the Condor.
- Route 3-C: Great Cavern Route (High Season Only) – Visit the Agricultural Sector, Temple of the Sun, Inca’s House, ceremonial fountains, and the Three Doorways sector. Proceed to the Great Cavern (3 km round trip). On the return, explore the Temple of the Condor and the water mirrors complex.
- Route 3-D: Huchuy Picchu Route (High Season Only) – Start with the Agricultural Sector, Temple of the Sun, Inca’s House, ceremonial fountains, and the Three Doorways sector. Continue to Huchuy Picchu Mountain (2.4 km round trip), and on the way back, visit the water mirrors complex and the Temple of the Condor.

For Better Orientation, Explore Our Circuit Maps: To enhance your visit, we provide detailed maps of the various circuits at Machu Picchu. These maps will help you navigate the site and make the most of your experience. Discover the various Machu Picchu circuits and pick the adventure that suits you best. Explore your options here.

Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain

Additional Hiking Options: For those seeking an extra adventure, climbing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain offers stunning panoramic views.
Limited Tickets: To preserve these trails, daily entrance is limited. Advance booking is essential.
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: Limited to 200 people per day.
- Machu Picchu Mountain: Limited to 400 people per day.

Cost: We can handle your reservation with an additional charge of $75 USD for adults and $55 USD for students.

Booking Tips:

Machu Picchu Entrance: The most sought-after entry options for Machu Picchu (Circuits 2 & 3) are in high demand and tend to sell out quickly. To secure your visit, especially during peak season (May to September), we recommend booking at least 3 months in advance.
Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain entrance: Admission options to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are in high demand and tend to sell out quickly. To ensure your visit, especially during the high season (May to September), we recommend booking at least 3 months in advance.
High Season (May to September): Secure your place well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Low Season (October to April): While there may be more availability, booking early ensures your preferred dates and accommodations.

Why Choose Explorandino?

At Explorandino, we simplify your booking process, providing a seamless experience from start to finish. Whether it’s securing your entry to Machu Picchu, arranging the best circuit routes, or booking additional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, we take care of everything.

Ready to Explore? Visit here to book your adventure.

Act Now! Don’t miss out on experiencing the magic of Machu Picchu. Book early to ensure a memorable and hassle-free journey with Explorandino!

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