With Tikariy Machu Picchu, we will begin an unforgettable Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour that connects us with the essence of the Andes. We will explore the historic city of Cusco, where Inca walls and colonial temples reveal the living heritage of a remarkable civilization. We will feel the vibrant atmosphere of the Andean capital while preparing for deeper discoveries.
We will continue through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, a land of fertile fields, colorful markets, and impressive archaeological centers. We will learn about ancient traditions that remain alive in villages surrounded by mountains rising more than 3,000 meters (9,842 feet). We will admire fortresses and terraces that reflect the wisdom and vision of the Inca people.
Finally, we will reach Machu Picchu, the highlight of this journey, where stone temples and green peaks create an extraordinary landscape. We will walk through its ceremonial spaces, agricultural terraces, and sacred areas while uncovering the mysteries of this wonder. We will connect with the powerful energy that makes Machu Picchu one of the most admired places on Earth.
Choosing Tikariy Machu Picchu for this Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour will ensure that we experience history, culture, and nature with passion and authenticity. We will live a journey that will stay in our hearts forever.
Itinerary
Day 1: City Tour Cusco - Cusco Peru City Tour. We will welcome you at the airport and transfer you comfortably to your hotel in the Inca capital. We will share a briefing with tips for altitude, food, and enjoying this day’s tour.
Airport Pick-Up
Personalized reception at Cusco Airport and private transfer to your hotel. Our team will welcome you and ensure a safe and comfortable arrival.
Welcome & Briefing
Orientation about your trip, with recommendations for altitude, food, and practical tips to enjoy your stay in Cusco.
Qoricancha – Temple of the Sun
The most important shrine of the Inca Empire. We will walk through stone walls that once shone with golden decorations and learn about its seismic-resistant construction and the contrast with the colonial convent built above.
Transfer to Sacsayhuamán
Short vehicle ride to the archaeological fortress of Sacsayhuamán.
Sacsayhuamán
Impressive ceremonial fortress with massive stone blocks fitted without mortar. Enjoy panoramic views of Cusco and learn about its military and religious importance.
Q’enqo
Inca ceremonial site carved into rock, used for rituals and offerings. A sacred space with strong cultural meaning.
Puka Pukara
Known as the “Red Fortress,” it served as a military and administrative site with checkpoint functions. Its stones glow reddish at sunset.
Tambomachay
Temple dedicated to water worship, with canals and fountains that still function since Inca times, reflecting advanced hydraulic knowledge.
Return to Cusco
Return to your hotel or Cusco’s Plaza de Armas. Free time to rest or explore the main square and enjoy the city’s atmosphere.
Important Notes
- Recommended attire: comfortable walking shoes, hat, and sunscreen
- Bring water to stay hydrated
- Tour duration: approx. 5 hours (not including airport pick-up)
- Ideal for your first day in Cusco to help with acclimatization
Day 1 Statistics
- Distance traveled: ~10 km
- Highest altitude: 3,700 m (Sacsayhuamán)
- Lowest altitude: 3,399 m (Cusco)
- Route: Cusco city and nearby archaeological sites
- Difficulty level: Easy
Day 2: Sacred Valley of the Incas – Cusco Sacred Valley Tour. We will depart early from Cusco and head to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. First stop: Chinchero, a charming village with Inca walls and colonial churches. We will watch local artisans demonstrate ancestral textile techniques still in use today. We will then explore Moray, where circular terraces once served as an agricultural laboratory of the Inca Empire.
Hotel Pick-Up
At 6:30 a.m., pick-up from your accommodation to begin the Sacred Valley journey.
Chinchero
Picturesque village combining Inca walls and colonial churches. Local artisans will show us ancestral weaving and dyeing techniques passed down for generations.
Moray
Series of circular terraces used by the Incas as an agricultural laboratory, showing their advanced knowledge of microclimates and crop experimentation.
Maras Salt Mines
More than 3,000 salt pools cascading along the slopes. Families still harvest salt with ancestral Inca techniques. A unique landscape of white ponds against Andean mountains.
Buffet Lunch in Urubamba
We will enjoy a buffet lunch in a countryside restaurant, surrounded by green fields and Andean peaks. Local and traditional dishes included.
Ollantaytambo
Living archaeological site with temples, terraces, and narrow alleys that still preserve Inca urban planning. We will explore the Temple of the Sun and steep stairways of this fortress.
Expedition or Voyager Train to Aguas Calientes
Train journey along the Urubamba River, transitioning from Andean valleys to cloud forest. Arrival in Aguas Calientes to rest and prepare for Machu Picchu.
Useful Information
- Recommendations: Bring hat, sunscreen, water, and comfortable walking shoes
- Includes: Tourist transportation, professional guide, buffet lunch, train ticket, and entry to all sites
- Duration: Full-day tour until arrival in Aguas Calientes (approx. 10–11 hours)
Day 2 Statistics
- Distance traveled: ~120 km
- Highest altitude: 3,762 m (Chinchero)
- Lowest altitude: 2,040 m (Aguas Calientes)
- Route: Cusco – Chinchero – Moray – Maras – Urubamba – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
- Difficulty level: Moderate
Day 3: Machu Picchu Day Trip – Cusco. We will start with breakfast at the hotel in Aguas Calientes before boarding the bus that climbs 400 meters to Machu Picchu. We will enter the legendary Inca citadel, one of the greatest wonders of the world, and explore temples, plazas, terraces, and sacred areas with our guide.
Breakfast at the Hotel
Start the day with breakfast at your hotel in Aguas Calientes before heading to Machu Picchu.
Bus Ascent to Machu Picchu
We will board the bus that ascends 400 meters to the entrance of Machu Picchu, surrounded by breathtaking Andean scenery.
Guided Tour of Machu Picchu
Guided visit of over 2 hours through the citadel. We will explore the Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana, the Temple of the Three Windows, the Sacred Rock, the Temple of the Condor, and the Guardian’s House. We will admire the views of Picchu Mountain and the surrounding peaks.
Free Time in Machu Picchu
Time to walk, take photos, or simply enjoy the magic of this Wonder of the World at your own pace.
Bus Descent to Aguas Calientes
Return by bus to the town of Aguas Calientes before continuing the day’s journey.
Lunch in Aguas Calientes
Enjoy lunch on your own in the charming town of Aguas Calientes.
Train Back to Ollantaytambo
We will take the Expedition or Voyager train back to Ollantaytambo. Please arrive at the station 30 minutes before departure.
Transfer from Ollantaytambo to Cusco
Our team will meet you at the station in Ollantaytambo and transfer you comfortably back to your hotel in Cusco.
Important Notes
- Wear comfortable clothing, hiking shoes, hat, and sunscreen.
- Bring water and a camera to capture unforgettable moments.
- Full-day tour: early morning departure, return to Cusco at night.
- Arrive at the train station in Aguas Calientes 30 minutes before departure.
Day 3 Statistics
- Distance traveled: ~100 km
- Highest altitude: 2,430 m (Machu Picchu)
- Lowest altitude: 2,040 m (Aguas Calientes)
- Route: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
- Difficulty level: Moderate
What's included
- Pick-up from Cusco airport
- Cusco Tourist Ticket (Sacred Valley of the Incas)
- All transfers in tourist transportation during the tours
- Expedition or Voyager train ticket (Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo)
- Bus ticket for the route Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
- Official entrance to Machu Picchu included
- Professional guide on all tours
- 1 night of accommodation in Cusco
- 1 night of accommodation in Aguas Calientes
- 1 buffet lunch in the Sacred Valley of the Incas
Exclusions
- International or domestic flights
- Meals and drinks not specified in the itinerary
- Entrance ticket to Huayna Picchu or Picchu Mountain
- Other services not mentioned in the inclusions
Remember these tips to better enjoy your trip, always carry with you:
- Wear comfortable walking shoes during visits.
- Bring water to stay hydrated throughout the tour.
- Protect your skin with a hat and sunscreen.
- Dress appropriately for the region's changing weather.
- Don’t forget your camera or phone to capture unforgettable moments.
- Arrive on time at the meeting point to make the most of the tour.
- Carry your ID and copies of your tickets for any checkpoints.
- If you take medication, make sure to bring it and ask about altitude sickness.
- Bring cash in local currency for purchases or tips.
- Respect the environment—do not litter at archaeological sites.
- Keep your phone charged and accessible for emergencies or guide communication.
- Consider bringing a light rain jacket in case of rain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Cusco airport pick-up included in this 3 days tour?
Yes, we will pick you up directly from the airport in Cusco and transfer you to your hotel.
What archaeological sites will we visit during the Sacred Valley part of the tour?
We will visit Chinchero, Moray, Maras Salt Mines, and Ollantaytambo, all important sites of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
Is the entrance ticket to Machu Picchu included in the package?
Yes, the official entrance ticket to Machu Picchu is included in this tour.
Can we climb Huayna Picchu or Picchu Mountain during this tour?
These tickets are not included. We can help you reserve them in advance, depending on availability.
What type of train service is included for Machu Picchu?
The tour includes Expedition or Voyager train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and back.
Do we have free time inside Machu Picchu to explore?
Yes, after the guided tour, we will have free time to walk around and take photos.
What kind of accommodation is included in this 3 days tour?
The package includes one night in Cusco and one night in Aguas Calientes in standard tourist hotels.
How difficult is the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour?
The tour is moderate. We will visit archaeological sites with steps and uneven paths, but no intense hiking.
What should we carry for this trip?
We should bring our passport, comfortable clothes, sturdy shoes, sunscreen, a hat, water, and a small backpack.
Is travel insurance included in the tour price?
No, travel insurance is not included. We strongly recommend purchasing it before traveling.
Reviews
This tour exceeded all of our expectations. The Sacred Valley is stunning, and our guide explained the history with so much detail and enthusiasm. The train ride to Aguas Calientes was comfortable and scenic, and the visit to Machu Picchu was simply breathtaking. The hotels were cozy and well-located. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Cusco!
