Embark on a transformative journey through the heart of the Peruvian Andes with this immersive 2-day adventure. Discover the awe-inspiring beauty and ancient mystique of the Sacred Valley, a region steeped in history and culture. From the bustling markets of Pisac to the towering ruins of Ollantaytambo, each stop along the way offers a glimpse into the rich heritage of the Inca civilization.
The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly the legendary Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Nestled high in the Andes, this ancient citadel is a testament to the ingenuity and architectural prowess of the Inca people. As you wander through the stone terraces and labyrinthine passageways, you'll feel a sense of wonder and reverence for the civilization that once thrived here.
Your journey begins in the charming town of Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire. From here, you'll wind your way through the picturesque Sacred Valley, stopping at quaint villages and archaeological sites along the route. Explore the ruins of Pisac, perched high above the valley, and marvel at the precision of Inca stonemasonry at the fortress of Ollantaytambo.
After a day of exploration, you'll board the scenic train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Nestled in the cloud forest at the foot of the mountains, this bustling town is the perfect base for your visit to the ancient citadel. Rise early the next morning to catch the first bus up to Machu Picchu, where you'll witness the sunrise over the majestic ruins.
As you explore the temples, terraces, and plazas of Machu Picchu, your guide will regale you with tales of Inca history and mythology. Learn about the spiritual significance of the site and the mysterious circumstances of its abandonment. Take time to soak in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and feel the energy of this sacred place seep into your soul.
After a full day of exploration, you'll return to Aguas Calientes for a well-deserved rest. Relax in the natural hot springs that give the town its name, or stroll through the bustling markets in search of souvenirs. As the sun sets behind the mountains, reflect on the wonders you've witnessed and the memories you've made on this unforgettable journey through the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
This 2-day tour is a perfect introduction to the wonders of Peru, combining history, culture, and natural beauty in a compact and unforgettable package. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first adventure, this experience will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the ancient civilizations that once called this rugged landscape home. Join us on this journey of discovery and let the magic of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu captivate your heart and soul.
Day 1: Cusco – Pisac – Urubamba – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
On day one of our Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu 2-day Tour, we'll commence from Cusco at 8:00 am. Our journey starts with a visit to the vibrant market town of Pisac.
Pisac:
Located at 2,972 meters, Pisac is renowned for its bustling market and iconic Inca ruins. Our agenda includes browsing traditional crafts at the local market followed by a visit to the remarkable terraced fields and ancient constructions, enriched by insights from our local guide.
Urubamba:
Our journey continues to the heart of the Sacred Valley, Urubamba, where a scrumptious buffet lunch awaits us at 1:00 pm.
Ollantaytambo:
Post-lunch, we'll explore the historic Ollantaytambo, seated at 2,792 meters. The highlight will be the town's magnificent fortress and terraces, where we'll delve into the Inca's strategic history.
Aguas Calientes:
Concluding our day, a picturesque train journey at 4:30 pm leads us to Aguas Calientes, our base for Machu Picchu. By 6:00 pm, we'll check into our hotel, unwinding in preparation for the next day's Machu Picchu adventure.
Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
On day two of our Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu journey, we'll embark early, departing from Aguas Calientes at 5:30 am, headed straight to the iconic Inca citadel.
Perched at 2,430 meters, as the sun ascends, its first rays will adorn Machu Picchu, creating an ethereal glow. By 6:30 am, we'll step into this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Machu Picchu Exploration:
Spanning two hours, our guided expedition unveils the citadel's many wonders. From the masterful stonework and agricultural designs to the sacred spaces, every corner has a tale. Our guide will narrate these tales, immersing us in the Incan legacy. This deep dive wraps up by 10:00 am, following which you'll have personal time. Seek solitude or opt for the Sun Gate or Huayna Picchu treks. Notably, the Sungate trek, a vantage point for Inca Trail hikers, requires no permit and is free.
Post our Machu Picchu escapade, at 2:00 pm, we'll head back to Aguas Calientes. After some leisure or a light meal, we'll board the 4:30 pm train bound for Cusco.
Traversing the Andean panorama, we'll reminisce about our adventure, concluding our tour in Cusco by 8:00 pm, with memories etched for a lifetime.