Cusco 3 Days: Sacred Valley, Humantay Lake & Machu Picchu

Cusco’s stunning landscapes and ancient Inca ruins captivate travelers from around the world. This 3-day tour offers an immersive experience, blending the majesty of the Sacred Valley, the breathtaking Humantay Lake, and the legendary Machu Picchu. With expert guides, seamless logistics, and carefully curated inclusions, visitors can discover the region’s cultural treasures and natural wonders. Whether you’re seeking an adventure, a culture, or simply awe-inspiring vistas, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of Peru’s most iconic destinations.

Key Points

• A 3-day tour covering Cusco’s iconic destinations, including the Sacred Valley’s ancient Inca citadels, Humantay Lake, and the legendary Machu Picchu.
• Highlights include the Inca citadel and market in Pisac, the charming city of Urubamba, the impressive Ollantaytambo fortress, and the Chinchero archaeological site.
• The tour includes a hike to the stunning Humantay Lake, with its vibrant turquoise waters and towering glaciers.
• The Machu Picchu experience involves a train journey through the Urubamba Valley, a guided tour of the Inca citadel, and an exploration of its remarkable history and architectural wonders.
• The tour provides a seamless, worry-free experience with transportation, select meals, train and bus tickets, and entrance fees to Machu Picchu included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This 3-day tour takes visitors on an immersive exploration of Cusco’s most iconic destinations, from the Sacred Valley‘s ancient Inca citadels to the stunning Humantay Lake and the legendary Machu Picchu.

Beginning in the Sacred Valley, travelers will discover the Pisac ruins, browse the local market, and visit the impressive Ollantaytambo fortress.

On day two, they’ll hike to the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, surrounded by snow-capped peaks.

The tour culminates with a guided visit to the majestic Machu Picchu, allowing ample time to marvel at the Inca citadel’s architectural wonders.

Throughout the journey, visitors will enjoy comfortable transportation, delicious meals, and the expertise of knowledgeable local guides.

Destinations on the Itinerary

The sacred sites and cultural treasures of Cusco’s Sacred Valley captivate visitors on the first day of the tour. Travelers explore the Inca citadel and lively market in Pisac, then enjoy lunch in the charming city of Urubamba.

Next, they visit the impressive Ollantaytambo fortress and city, followed by the remarkable Chinchero archaeological site.

On the second day, the group embarks on a hike to the stunning Humantay Lake, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. After breakfast in Mollepata, they make the 1 to 1.5-hour climb to the breathtaking turquoise waters.

The final day features the highlight – a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu, the ‘Lost City of the Incas,’ before returning to Cusco.

Sacred Valley Highlights

On the first day, visitors explore the highlights of the Sacred Valley, beginning with the Inca citadel and lively market in Pisac. They’ll then enjoy lunch in the charming city of Urubamba before visiting the impressive Ollantaytambo fortress and citadel. The day concludes at the Chinchero archaeological site, where they’ll learn about the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Destination	Key Highlights
Pisac	Inca citadel, vibrant market
Urubamba	Lunch in a scenic city
Ollantaytambo	Massive fortress and citadel
Chinchero	Intriguing archaeological site

This immersive day through the Sacred Valley provides a captivating introduction to the Inca empire and the natural beauty of the region.

Hike to Humantay Lake

Travelers embark on a 1-1.5 hour hike from Mollepata town to reach the captivating Humantay Lagoon, nestled beneath the imposing Humantay mountain. The trail winds through lush meadows and over small streams, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Andes.

Upon arrival, visitors are awestruck by the lagoon’s vibrant turquoise waters, mirroring the towering glaciers above. The experience evokes a range of emotions:

1. Wonder at the lagoon’s natural beauty
2. Exhilaration from the challenging hike
3. Tranquility from the serene, peaceful setting
4. Appreciation for the majesty of the Andes

After taking in the sights and enjoying a well-deserved lunch, travelers depart Humantay Lake, eager to continue their journey through the Cusco region.

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Machu Picchu Experience

After exploring the Sacred Valley and marveling at Humantay Lake, the tour culminates with a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu. Travelers board a train at Ollantaytambo station, journeying through the scenic Urubamba Valley to reach the town of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to the Machu Picchu sanctuary. From there, they take a bus up the winding mountain roads to the ancient Inca citadel, where a guided tour unveils the site’s remarkable history and architectural wonders.

Experience	Duration	Highlights
Guided Tour	2 hours	Explore the citadel, learn about Inca history
Free Time	1-2 hours	Discover hidden corners, take in the views
Return to Cusco	Afternoon	Train ride back to Ollantaytambo, transfer to Cusco

Included in the Tour

Spanning the 3-day itinerary, the tour package includes transportation and professional guides, select meals, and all necessary train and bus tickets, as well as entrance fees to Machu Picchu.

The inclusions ensure a seamless, worry-free experience, so you can focus on enjoying the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Key inclusions are:

1. Buffet lunch on the Sacred Valley day and breakfast and lunch on the Humantay Lake day.
2. Train and bus tickets to and from Machu Picchu.
3. Entrance fee to the Machu Picchu sanctuary.
4. Guided tours at key sites like Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Machu Picchu.

With these thoughtful inclusions, you’re set to embark on an unforgettable Cusco adventure.

What to Expect

Throughout the 3-day tour, travelers can expect a seamless, immersive experience that showcases the sacred wonders of Cusco and the majestic landscapes of the Andes.

The itinerary is meticulously designed to maximize time at each destination, with knowledgeable guides providing invaluable insights into the region’s rich history and cultural heritage.

From the impressive Inca ruins of the Sacred Valley to the serene beauty of Humantay Lake, every moment is carefully curated to offer a truly unforgettable journey.

Adventurers will have the opportunity to explore the iconic Machu Picchu, one of the world’s most awe-inspiring archaeological sites, followed by free time to wander the charming town of Aguas Calientes.

With all transportation and logistics handled, travelers can focus on creating lasting memories.

Essentials to Bring

To make the most of the 3-day tour, travelers should pack a few key items. A valid passport is a must, as it’s required for entry to Machu Picchu.

Comfortable, well-broken-in shoes are essential for navigating the uneven terrain at the archaeological sites and during the hike to Humantay Lake.

Sun protection – sunglasses, hat, and high-SPF sunscreen to shield from the intense mountain sun.

Warm layers – the weather can be unpredictable, so pack a jacket, gloves, and thermal wear.

Reusable water bottle – stay hydrated throughout the long days of exploring.

Battery pack or portable charger – to keep devices powered up for capturing unforgettable moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Extend the Tour to Include Additional Destinations?

Yes, the tour can be extended to include additional destinations. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the tour provider and customize the itinerary accordingly, though this may incur additional costs.

Is There an Option to Visit Machu Picchu Without the Train?

There are options to visit Machu Picchu without taking the train. Hikers can take the Inca Trail, which is a multi-day trek, or the Salkantay Trek, which also leads to Machu Picchu. These hiking routes provide a more adventurous experience.

Are Vegetarian/Vegan Meal Options Available During the Tour?

Vegetarian and vegan meal options are typically available during tours, but travelers should inform the tour company of any dietary restrictions in advance. Many tour operators can accommodate specialized diets with prior notice.

Can I Add Extra Time for Exploring Machu Picchu on My Own?

Yes, you can add extra time for exploring Machu Picchu on your own. The tour includes a 2-hour guided tour, but you can stay longer and explore the site independently after the guided portion is complete.

Is There a Discount Available for Children or Seniors on This Tour?

Yes, there are often discounts available for children and seniors on tours like this. To inquire about any discounts, customers should contact the tour operator directly and provide information about the ages of the travelers.

Recap

This 3-day tour of Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Humantay Lake, and Machu Picchu offers an immersive experience in Peru’s most iconic destinations.

Travelers will discover the Inca’s sacred sites, marvel at the stunning natural landscapes, and embark on a journey to the legendary Machu Picchu.

With knowledgeable guides, select meals, and seamless transportation, this tour provides a worry-free exploration of Peru’s wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: