Machu Picchu is an ancient Incan city located in the Andes Mountains of Peru. It was built in the 15th century and is considered one of the greatest architectural and engineering achievements of the Incan civilization.
The city was abandoned in the late 16th century during the Spanish conquest of Peru, and remained hidden from the outside world until it was rediscovered by American historian Hiram Bingham in 1911.
Machu Picchu is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination, attracting over a million visitors each year. The city’s impressive architecture and engineering, including its terraced fields, intricate water channels, and stone buildings, continue to amaze visitors.
To reach Machu Picchu, visitors typically take a train from Cusco to the town of Aguas Calientes, then hike or take a bus up to the city. The most popular hiking trail to Machu Picchu is the Inca Trail, which takes four days to complete and requires a permit.
While Machu Picchu is a popular tourist destination, it is also a site of cultural and historical significance. Visitors are encouraged to respect the site and follow guidelines to help preserve its delicate ecosystem and cultural heritage.
There are several reasons why one might choose to do a Machu Picchu tour with Sacred Valley Tour:
Overall, doing a Machu Picchu tour with Sacred Valley Tour can enhance your experience of this incredible destination and provide peace of mind knowing that you are in good hands.
Your tour of the Sacred Valley will begin early in the morning. You will visit Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo, each with its own unique history and cultural significance. Pisac, located 33 km from Cusco, was once used for agricultural and ceremonial purposes by Inca Pachacutec. You will have a guided tour to learn more about its history and culture. Next, you will visit Urubamba, which is 39 km from Pisac, where you will enjoy a buffet lunch to refuel your energy. After lunch, you will head to Ollantaytambo, an important archaeological site and small village built by Inca Pachacutec as a ceremonial center.
At Ollantaytambo, you will visit an Inca fortress and have a guided tour before heading to the train station to catch a train to Aguas Calientes, which is located 30.5 km from Ollantaytambo. In Aguas Calientes, you can take a walk through the stone paths, visit the main square, dine at one of the many restaurants, or relax in the thermal baths. You will spend the night at a hotel in Aguas Calientes.
The next morning, you will head to the bus stop to take the bus to the Citadel of Machu Picchu, a 25-minute trip. Once you arrive, your tour guide will give you a guided tour of the impressive ancient city and explain its history and architecture. You will have time to freely explore Machu Picchu and appreciate the impressive constructions made of well-carved stones and transported from the top of the mountains.
After your visit to Machu Picchu, you will descend to Aguas Calientes to take the train back to Ollantaytambo, where our driver will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Cusco, concluding your Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour.
Note: Train schedules are subject to change based on availability.
Here are some recommendations for a tour of Machu Picchu:
Touring Machu Picchu with the Sacred Valley is an unforgettable experience. The Sacred Valley is a region located near Cusco that offers incredible views of the Andes mountains and the beautiful Urubamba River. On this tour, you will visit the towns of Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo, each with its own unique charm and history.
Pisac was an important agricultural and ceremonial center for the Incas and is home to impressive terraces and ruins. Urubamba is a beautiful town located in the heart of the Sacred Valley, where you will enjoy a delicious buffet lunch. Finally, Ollantaytambo is a small town with an impressive Inca fortress that was built as a ceremonial center.
After visiting the Sacred Valley, you will head to Aguas Calientes, a charming town located at the foot of Machu Picchu. From there, you will take a bus to the Citadel of Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Here, you will marvel at the impressive stone constructions, impressive architecture, and breathtaking views of the Andes Mountains.
Overall, touring Machu Picchu with the Sacred Valley is a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and history of this region, while enjoying delicious food, impressive ruins, and unforgettable landscapes.
The route is the same for all trains; only the train cars vary.
Travelers on the Expedition train will find themselves comfortable and relaxed. They will also be informed about the most important points of this ancient route that every adventurer should know. The Expedition features cars fully equipped with large windows, allowing passengers to immerse themselves in the beauty of the natural landscape and begin their Machu Picchu experience on the train.
Completely surrounded by glass, with cars featuring large panoramic windows that offer unparalleled scenic views and countless opportunities for spectacular photos, the Vistadome traveler connects with and feels part of the impressive landscape of Peru. Perurail provides personalized, first-class service in which the traveler on board will have an unforgettable experience. The Vistadome also features an air conditioning and heating system, and leather seats that contour to the body, providing comfort and relaxation throughout the entire journey. Snacks and drinks are also served.
The Vistadome Observatory train by Peru Rail takes you on a breathtaking journey from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu. Immerse yourself in the majesty of the Andean landscapes through its spacious windows and a specially designed observation car. Every moment on this train is a celebration of the rich Peruvian heritage, manifested in traditional melodies and dances. During the trip, travelers are free to move between the panoramic car and the sophisticated observation space, ensuring a unique and immersive experience.
This is a luxurious and exclusive all-inclusive train decorated in the style of the 1920s Pullman cars. Each car is adorned with polished wood and bronze details and is equipped with large, very comfortable armchairs. It is the finest way to travel to Machu Picchu, with personalized service that takes care of even the smallest detail of the trip. On the Hiram Bingham, you can enjoy the sophisticated dining car, the bar car, and the observatory car, from where you can enjoy the wonderful route in the open air, accompanied by a Peruvian cocktail and live local music shows. It will be an experience you will never forget.
If you are planning to take a tour of Machu Picchu with Sacred Valley, it is important to know what to bring to make your trip comfortable and enjoyable. Here are some suggested items to bring:
By bringing these items, you will be prepared for a comfortable and enjoyable tour of Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley.
Welcome to the travel guide for Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley! These are two of the most popular tourist destinations in Peru, and for good reason. Machu Picchu is an iconic archaeological site that draws visitors from all over the world, while the Sacred Valley is a stunning region of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Getting There: To get to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, most travelers fly into the Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco. From there, it’s a short drive to the Sacred Valley, and a train ride to Machu Picchu. Many tour companies offer package deals that include transportation and accommodations.
What to See and Do: In the Sacred Valley, be sure to visit the ancient Inca ruins at Pisac and Ollantaytambo. Both of these sites are steeped in history and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. You can also explore the traditional markets and villages in the area, where you can shop for handmade crafts and sample delicious local cuisine.
The main attraction in this region is Machu Picchu.
This iconic site is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world, and visitors come from far and wide to see it in person. Be sure to take a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of this incredible place.
Tips for Visitors: When visiting Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, it’s important to be prepared. Be sure to dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Wear comfortable walking shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking and climbing. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially if you’re visiting during the warmer months. And don’t forget to bring a camera to capture all of the incredible sights you’ll see along the way.
Overall, Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley are must-see destinations for anyone visiting Peru. With their rich history, stunning natural beauty, and unique cultural heritage, these sites offer something for everyone.
The best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. The rainy season, from November to April, can make hiking and outdoor activities more difficult.
What should I wear for the tour? Be sure to dress in layers and wear comfortable, sturdy shoes for walking and hiking. Also, bring a waterproof jacket or poncho in case of rain.
Machu Picchu is located at an altitude of 2,430 meters (7,970 feet), while the Sacred Valley ranges from 2,800 to 3,500 meters (9,200 to 11,500 feet) above sea level.
Most tours include transportation from Cusco to the Sacred Valley and from the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu. You can also take a train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, which is the town closest to Machu Picchu.
Yes, it is required to have a licensed guide to enter Machu Picchu. Most tours include a guide for the visit.
Yes, you can climb Huayna Picchu, but you need to purchase a separate entrance ticket in advance as there are limited daily permits available.
There are restrooms and restaurants at both Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, but prices can be higher than in other areas of Peru.
What should I bring on the tour? Be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, sunglasses, a reusable water bottle, and a camera. It’s also recommended to bring some cash in case you want to purchase souvenirs or snacks.
Thank you for your interest in contracting your next vacation with our company, we are sure that we will do our best to give you the vacation of a lifetime; we have the experience that thousands of travelers from all over the world have traveled with us and all of them have returned to their countries with the most beautiful memories and many joys that we have had in their lives.