The adventure begins with a morning pick-up from your location in Cusco (approx. 11,152 ft / 3,399 m). You’ll dive straight into the city’s historic center, a place where Inca and colonial histories collide. The first stops are iconic landmarks like the Coricancha, the main temple of the Incas, and the grand colonial cathedral, which showcases a stunning blend of architectural styles.
Next, it’s time for a true feast for the senses. You’ll immerse yourself in the daily life of the Cusquenian people with a visit to the bustling central market. This is the perfect spot to experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample some delicious local snacks. After wandering through Cusco’s ancient Inca streets, a stop is made for a delightful lunch at a traditional restaurant.
Following lunch, the journey continues to the outskirts of the city to explore four remarkable Inca sites: Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Pucapucara, and Tambomachay. Each offers a unique glimpse into the ingenious architecture and rich history of the Inca civilization. In the afternoon, the tour proceeds into the Sacred Valley, heading toward the Pisac Inca ruins, which are spectacularly nestled atop majestic mountains. After exploring the archaeological site, there’s time to visit the famous and lively Pisac market. The day concludes in the town of Urubamba (approx. 9,420 ft / 2,871 m) for an overnight stay at a comfortable, included hotel.
After a restful night and a good breakfast, the day’s exploration begins at Maras Moray. Here, you’ll witness the Inca’s incredible agricultural acclimatization laboratory, a surreal sight of circular farming terraces. From there, it’s a short drive to the fascinating salt mines of Maras. You can walk right into the Salineras and see the thousands of salt pans that create a stunning mosaic on the mountainside.
The next destination is Chinchero, a town where you’ll admire a colonial temple built directly on top of an Inca structure, featuring beautiful artwork. This is also where you will visit textile workshops to learn about traditional iconography and the natural techniques used for generations in textile production.
Following this cultural immersion, the group heads to Urubamba for a scrumptious lunch at a local restaurant known for its healthy and clean cuisine. Afterwards, a unique stop is made at an Inca bar to taste chicha, the traditional Inca beer. It’s a fantastic opportunity to interact with locals and learn about the farming and culinary traditions surrounding the guinea pig (cuy). As the day winds down, you’ll make your way to the Ollantaytambo train station to board the train to Aguas Calientes (approx. 6,693 ft / 2,040 m). You will spend the night in this charming town, full of anticipation for the next day’s main event: the visit to Machu Picchu.
Highlights of the Day:
Today is entirely dedicated to exploring the captivating world of Machu Picchu (approx. 7,972 ft / 2,430 m), the sacred sanctuary of the Incas. An early start after breakfast includes a bus ride up the winding road, allowing you to experience the lost city before the largest crowds arrive. Once inside, you’ll have plenty of time to capture stunning photos and simply soak in the breathtaking views as the morning mist clears.
Following this initial exploration, your expert guide will lead an informative tour of the citadel, explaining the history and culture of the Incas and the significance of the site. Afterward, you will have ample free time to explore the mystical grounds at your own pace. You can choose to hike to the Sun Gate for a classic panoramic view or walk to the Inca Bridge. For those who have planned and booked in advance, there is the option to climb either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for an even more spectacular perspective.
After fully immersing yourself in the magic of this legendary place, you’ll return to Aguas Calientes for a delicious lunch at one of the town’s charming restaurants. In the afternoon, you will board the train back to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, a private transfer will be waiting to take you back to Cusco and drop you off directly at your hotel, concluding this incredible journey.
Unforgettable Experiences:
Get Ready to Explore? With your booking confirmed, all that's left to do is pack your bags and get ready to explore. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first journey, we'll be with you every step of the way. At Machu Picchu Elevation, we believe that every journey begins with a single step. So why wait? Start your adventure today and let the world be your guide.
Map of : Machu Picchu, City Tour and Sacred Valley Tour 3 Days
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