Exploring the Sacred Valley and the iconic Machu Picchu is a must-do for many travelers to Peru. This private tour offers an immersive experience, blending cultural insights and stunning landscapes. Guests will journey aboard the luxurious Vistadome train, admiring the valley’s breathtaking vistas. Along the way, they’ll discover ancient ruins, vibrant markets, and the salt mines of Maras. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, this 2-day adventure promises to be an unforgettable adventure. What intrigues you most about this itinerary?
Good To Know
- This 2-day private tour offers an immersive experience exploring the Sacred Valley and iconic Machu Picchu, with a Vistadome train journey.
- The itinerary includes visits to Chinchero, Moray, and Maras salt mines on Day 1, followed by a guided tour of Machu Picchu on Day 2.
- Highlights include learning about Inca agricultural practices at Moray, witnessing traditional salt harvesting at Maras, and exploring the UNESCO-listed Machu Picchu.
- The tour includes a one-night hotel stay, private transportation, and admission tickets, with the option to climb Huayna Picchu.
- The tour is recommended for travelers seeking a comprehensive and high-quality journey through the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
Tour Overview
This private tour offers an immersive exploration of the Sacred Valley and the iconic Machu Picchu in Peru.
It’s a 2-day experience starting in Cusco, where travelers visit the charming town of Chinchero, the stunning Inca ruins of Moray, and the mesmerizing Maras salt mines.
On the second day, an early morning bus ride takes them to the lost city of Machu Picchu for a guided tour. Optional hiking to Huayna Picchu can also be arranged.
With a 100% recommendation rate from 18 reviews, this tour provides an intimate, high-quality journey through some of Peru’s most breathtaking cultural and historical highlights.
Itinerary Details
The tour begins with an exploration of the Sacred Valley on the first day.
Travelers will visit the main square of Chinchero with its Inca walls and learn about Andean weaving at a Textile Center.
Next, they’ll explore the agricultural center of Moray, with its concentric terraces believed to be a climate testing site for crops.
The tour then moves to the remarkable Maras Salt Mines, featuring over 3,000 salt pools dating back to pre-Inca times.
The second day is devoted to the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
After an early breakfast, travelers will take a bus ride to the iconic site for a guided tour lasting approximately 2.5 hours.
An optional climb to Huayna Picchu can also be arranged.
Day 1: Sacred Valley Exploration
On the first day, travelers explore the captivating Sacred Valley.
The tour begins with a visit to Chinchero, where they admire the main square with its Inca walls and learn about Andean weaving at a Textile Center.
Next, they discover the remarkable agricultural center of Moray, featuring concentric terraces believed to be a climate testing ground for crops.
The final stop is the Maras Salt Mines, where over 3,000 salt pools from pre-Inca times dot the landscape, offering a glimpse into the area’s rich history and traditions.
Chinchero
Travelers kick off their Sacred Valley exploration at Chinchero, a picturesque town nestled high in the Andes. Here, they’ll discover:
- Main square with impressive Inca walls
- A Textile Center showcasing traditional Andean weaving techniques
- Vibrant local markets selling handcrafted goods
- Stunning mountain vistas overlooking the valley
- Opportunity to interact with skilled weavers and learn about their craft
This quaint village provides an authentic glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region, setting the stage for the remarkable sights and experiences to come throughout the Sacred Valley.
Moray
Next, the group ventures to Moray, an intriguing site showcasing the agricultural prowess of the Inca.
The site features a series of concentric terraces, believed to have been used as an experimental agricultural laboratory. Travelers can explore the unique terraces, which descend in a spiral pattern, creating a serene and visually striking landscape.
The lower terraces are said to have been used to test the cultivation of different crops, taking advantage of the varying microclimates within the depression.
This archaeological gem provides a fascinating glimpse into the Inca’s advanced understanding of agronomics and their ability to adapt to the challenging Andean environment.
Maras
After exploring the unique terraces of Moray, the tour heads to the remarkable Maras Salt Mines. This pre-Inca site features over 3,000 salt pools that have been in use for centuries.
Visitors can witness the traditional salt harvesting process and marvel at the stunning, geometric patterns of the salt ponds.
The Maras Salt Mines offer:
- A glimpse into Peru’s ancient salt production methods
- Breathtaking views of the surrounding Andean mountains
- Opportunities to purchase locally-harvested, artisanal salt
- Insights into the importance of salt in Inca and colonial-era economies
- A chance to support the local community that continues this traditional practice.
Day 2: Machu Picchu Visit
On the second day, travelers embark on the highlight of the tour – a visit to the renowned Machu Picchu.
The day begins with an early breakfast before boarding a bus for the short ride to the historic sanctuary. A guided tour lasting around 2.5 hours provides an in-depth exploration of the ancient Inca citadel.
Travelers can opt to climb Huayna Picchu, if booked in advance, for stunning views over the site.
The visit to Machu Picchu offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the impressive engineering and cultural significance of this iconic landmark.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour includes a one-night stay at a 3-star hotel, breakfast, private transportation, the entrance fee for Huayna Picchu, and admission tickets for Moray and Machu Picchu.
However, the following items aren’t included:
- Other meals
- Tips
- Certain admission tickets
Travelers should be aware that this tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions.
To book the tour, travelers must provide their full name, gender, date of birth, passport number, nationality, and the name of their Cusco hotel.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Time Is Allocated for Meals During the Tour?
The tour includes breakfast each day, but doesn’t specify any other meal times. The itinerary is focused on visiting key sites, with the remaining time likely left open for travelers to have meals at their own discretion.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Minimum/Maximum Age Requirements?
The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. It’s suitable for travelers of all ages, as long as they’re able to handle the physical activity and don’t have any serious medical conditions that could be exacerbated by the tour.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Accommodate Special Dietary Needs?
The tour can be customized to accommodate special dietary needs. The operator is flexible and willing to make arrangements for those with specific food requirements, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour to Include Additional Destinations?
Yes, the tour can likely be extended to include additional destinations. Inkayni Peru Tours offers customizable itineraries, so travelers can add extra locations or activities to the standard tour based on their interests and travel preferences.
What Type of Transportation Is Used for the Transfers Between Locations?
The tour includes private transportation for transfers between locations, such as buses and vans. This allows for a comfortable and efficient travel experience as guests explore the various sites on the itinerary.
The Sum Up
This private tour of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu offers an unforgettable experience. Travelers will be captivated by the stunning landscapes, immersed in rich cultural heritage, and transported in comfort aboard the luxurious Vistadome train. With a knowledgeable guide and well-planned itinerary, this 2-day journey provides an exceptional opportunity to explore the highlights of Peru’s iconic destinations.