Cusco 3 Days: City Tour, Super Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu

Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, has long captivated travelers with its enduring cultural heritage and natural wonders. The Cusco 3 Days: City Tour, Super Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu package offers an exceptional opportunity to uncover the region’s rich history and explore its awe-inspiring landscapes. From the historic center of Cusco to the iconic Machu Picchu citadel, this comprehensive tour promises an immersive experience that delves into the legacy of the Inca civilization. Whether you’re marveling at Inca architecture, witnessing traditional weaving techniques, or uncovering the secrets of the ancient salt mines, this journey is sure to leave a lasting impression. But the real question is, what captivating discoveries await you along the way?

Key Points

• Comprehensive 3-day tour of Cusco and Machu Picchu, showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders.
• Guided visits to the historic center of Cusco, Sacred Valley’s archaeological sites, and the iconic Machu Picchu citadel.
• Exploration of Inca ruins like Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay surrounding Cusco.
• Immersive experiences at Chinchero’s textile center, Moray’s Inca agricultural terraces, and the Maras salt mines.
• Seamless transportation, professional guides, and necessary entrance fees provided for a hassle-free experience.

Tour Overview

This 3-day Cusco and Machu Picchu tour package offers an immersive exploration of the region’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders.

Travelers can expect a comprehensive experience, with guided visits to the historic center of Cusco, the Sacred Valley’s archaeological sites, and the iconic Machu Picchu citadel.

The tour includes transportation, professional guides, and all necessary entrance fees, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free journey.

Highlights include exploring the Inca ruins of Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay, as well as the vibrant markets and traditional weaving demonstrations in Chinchero and Ollantaytambo.

With a perfect balance of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery, this tour provides an unforgettable glimpse into the legacy of the Inca civilization.

Cusco City Highlights

On the first day of the tour, travelers explore the historic center of Cusco, visiting the iconic Cathedral of Cusco and the renowned Inca Palace of Qoricancha.

The Cathedral of Cusco, a stunning example of colonial architecture, dominates the city’s main square. Inside, visitors admire the intricate altars, religious artwork, and the impressive organs.

Next, they venture to Qoricancha, once the most important Inca site in the city, now partially covered by a Spanish colonial church. Here, travelers marvel at the well-preserved Inca stonework and learn about the site’s religious significance.

After these highlights, the tour continues to four ancient ruins surrounding Cusco – Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay, giving visitors a comprehensive introduction to the Inca legacy.

Exploring Inca Ruins

The guided tour ventures out of Cusco, taking visitors to four remarkable Inca ruins that showcase the architectural prowess and enduring legacy of this ancient civilization.

First, you’ll explore the imposing fortress of Sacsayhuaman, with its massive stone walls and zigzagging terraces.

Next, you’ll discover the mysterious rock formations and underground passages of Qenqo.

At Puca Pucara, you’ll marvel at the complex layout and defensive features of this former administrative and military outpost.

Finally, the serene site of Tambomachay, with its intricate stonework and water channels, offers a glimpse into the Incas’ engineering expertise.

These ancient ruins provide a captivating window into the remarkable achievements of the Inca Empire.

Textile Center & Moray

After exploring the Inca ruins around Cusco, the tour ventures into the Sacred Valley, where visitors discover the vibrant textile center of Chinchero and the mysterious Inca agricultural terraces at Moray.

In Chinchero, they’ll witness the traditional weaving techniques passed down through generations, as skilled artisans demonstrate how they create the colorful textiles that are a hallmark of Andean culture.

Then, it’s on to Moray, where the Incas engineered a remarkable series of concentric terraces, likely used for agricultural experimentation. The intricate design and dramatic setting of this ancient site never fail to impress.

From textiles to agronomy, this leg of the tour offers a rich glimpse into the Inca’s mastery of their environment.

Maras Salt Mines

From Moray, the tour makes its way to the iconic Maras salt mines, where visitors can witness the ancient salt-harvesting techniques that have endured for centuries in the Andes.

At Maras, thousands of salt ponds dot the mountainside, each one manually filled and harvested by local workers. Visitors can explore the ponds, learn about the process, and even purchase some of the pure Andean salt to take home.

The mesmerizing sight of the ponds glimmering in the sun against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains is a highlight of the Sacred Valley tour.

After exploring Maras, the group continues on to the charming town of Ollantaytambo, the last stop before the journey to Machu Picchu.

Ollantaytambo & Pisac

Following the day’s tour of Chinchero, Moray, and the Maras salt mines, the group continues on to the charming Inca-era town of Ollantaytambo, the last stop before the journey to Machu Picchu.

Nestled in the heart of the Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo boasts impressive Inca ruins that once served as a royal estate and later an important stronghold during the Spanish conquest.

Nearby, the vibrant town of Pisac offers a lively market where visitors can browse an array of handicrafts, textiles, and local produce.

The group will have the opportunity to explore both sites, gaining a deeper understanding of the region’s rich cultural heritage and traditions.

Machu Picchu Journey

On the final day, travelers board a morning train from Ollantaytambo station that carries them along the Urubamba River towards the town of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

From there, a bus takes them up the winding road to the iconic citadel.

Once at the top, a guided tour reveals the remarkable Inca architecture and the stunning natural landscape that surrounds it.

Visitors can explore the ruins, snap photos of the iconic structures, and soak in the serene atmosphere before beginning their journey back to Cusco.

The return trip follows the same route, with the train taking travelers back to Ollantaytambo and transportation provided to their final destination.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes transportation, guides, and entrance tickets, but excludes meals not specified, accommodation, and optional activities. This allows travelers the flexibility to customize their experience and budget according to their preferences.

Inclusions	Exclusions
Transportation	Meals not specified
Guides	Accommodation
Entrance Tickets	Optional Activities

Knowing what is and isn’t covered upfront helps travelers plan accordingly and avoid any unexpected expenses. With the key details laid out, travelers can focus on enjoying the historical and natural wonders of Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu during this 3-day adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Extend the Tour to 4 or More Days?

Yes, the tour can be extended to 4 or more days. Travelers can add extra days to explore the region in more depth, visit additional sites, or incorporate additional activities like hiking or cultural experiences.

Can I Customize the Tour Based on My Interests?

Yes, you can customize the tour based on your interests. The tour operator is flexible and can adjust the itinerary to accommodate your preferences, such as visiting additional sites or spending more time at certain locations.

What Is the Refund Policy if I Need to Cancel?

The tour operator’s refund policy typically allows for full refunds if cancelled 30+ days prior to departure, with partial refunds for cancellations 14-29 days out. Cancellations within 14 days usually result in no refund.

Are There Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?

The tour company may offer discounts for students and seniors, typically around 10-15% off the standard price. Customers should inquire about any available discounts when booking the tour to see if they qualify.

Can I Book This Tour at the Last Minute?

Yes, you can typically book this tour at the last minute, though availability may be limited. Many tour operators offer last-minute booking options, but it’s best to inquire as soon as possible to ensure your preferred travel dates.

Recap

The Cusco 3 Days: City Tour, Super Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu package offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the rich cultural heritage and natural splendor of Peru.

From the historic center of Cusco to the iconic Machu Picchu, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through the legacy of the Inca civilization.

With guided visits to archaeological sites, traditional weaving workshops, and the legendary salt mines, travelers will leave with a deeper appreciation for the region’s remarkable history and traditions.