Explore the Sacred Valley:
Itinerary and Inca Ruins Tour.
Discover the wonders of the Sacred Valley with our guided tour. Departing from your hotel at 8 a.m., our expert guide will lead you on a scenic road that winds through the breathtaking mountains north of Cusco. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit El Mirador, a famous lookout point offering panoramic views of the Sacred Valley and deep insights into Inca history.
Immerse yourself in the heart of Inca civilization as we explore the remarkable Sacred Valley, a significant settlement for the Incas. Marvel at the extraordinary abundance of fertile plains in this high Andean region. Witness the enduring legacy of the Incas through vast contour terracing and intricate irrigation channels that still stand today.
Next, we will journey towards the captivating ruins of Pisac, where you will be captivated by Inca culture. Admire the incredible stone art and intricate agricultural terraces that showcase the ingenuity of the Incas. Following the exploration, we will visit the vibrant handicraft market in the lower town of Pisac. Take your time to browse and haggle for unique souvenirs, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Savor a delicious lunch at a local Andean restaurant, where you can indulge in traditional flavors and immerse yourself in the local culinary scene.
In the afternoon, our adventure continues as we drive along the picturesque Urubamba River, leading us to the town of Ollantaytambo. Prepare to be amazed by the Incan construction found in these ruins, a testament to their architectural prowess during their golden age. Marvel at the awe-inspiring rock formations that represent the Inca god, Wiracocha.
Finally, we will return you to Cusco, dropping you off at your hotel, with memories of an unforgettable journey through the Sacred Valley.
Private Groups
This tour is only done privately and our prices are based on a group of two-six people. You will travel in a private van. If your group is larger than six, please ask the team representative for specific pricing.
Includes
- Professional Local tour guide
- Private transportation
- First aid kit in the car
- Oxigen in the car
- Water available in the car
Not included
- Entrances fees.
- Meals.
- Extra expenses.
Our day tours are done privately and the cost is based on your group size.
2 – 6 people: $200 total per group
7 – 13 people: $250 total
14 or more: Will be arranged and priced by your representative.
Note: We sometimes offer to combine private tours (with your permission) into smaller groups with a discount. Let us know if you would be open to others joining you.
Getting to Cusco
The airport in Cusco currently is only for domestic flights, so all international travelers by plane must disembark in Lima and go through Customs. Even if your flight to Cusco is the same day by the same airline carrier, you must grab your bags in Lima and then check them back in.
The best way to get to Cusco is by air and there are several options in airlines. LAN tends to be the most expensive, but has the most options and flights. Expect delays or flight cancellations. Due to the high altitude of Cusco, it tends to be difficult to land and any acclimate weather will stop air traffic. Bus travel is always available and while the trip can be long, especially from Lima, the buses in Peru are very well maintained and comfortable. This option is strongly encouraged if coming from a city closer to Cusco, like Puno. Lima buses will take about 20 hours to arrive.
Luggage Storage
Even though this is an overnight tour by train, your luggage allowance is still limited due to restrictions on the train. All bags brought to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu) need to be carry on size. Any extra luggage you have with you can be left safely in Cusco at either your hotel or with us at our deposit while you trek. We will grab from you the morning of your tour and return once you are back in Cusco. Make sure your bags have some kind of identification on them so they are easy to locate.
Altitude
As soon as people book their trip to Peru, specifically Cusco, they start wondering about altitude sickness. The air at high altitudes contains less oxygen than at sea level and forces your body to work harder to get the oxygen it needs. Over several days at high altitude, your body adjusts to the lower amount of oxygen in the air.
With altitude sickness, you may first feel like you have the flu or a hangover. You may have a headache, tiredness, loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, trouble sleeping, trouble breathing during exercise. If any of these effects become severe, please contact our office and we will help you get to a doctor.
Most of the time, these symptoms will be mild. We always recommend easing into activity slowly, allowing your body to adjust. Drink plenty of fluids such as water or muña tea. Avoid drinking a lot of alcohol and coffee. They will cause you to urinate more often and become dehydrated. Avoid smoking. Smoking makes it more difficult for your body to get oxygen. Avoid sleeping pills. They may cause shallow breathing at night, making it more difficult for your body to absorb oxygen while you sleep.
Your healthcare provider may prescribe medicines, such as acetazolamide and dexamethasone, to help prevent altitude sickness. Start the medicine two days before you get to a high altitude. Continue to take it while you are at high altitude.
Weather
Of course weather is unpredictable. Typically the dry season in Cusco is from April through October, but this does not stop rain from falling in June or the sun from coming out in December – just be prepared. No matter what month you are doing the trek, please make sure that you have rain gear that includes a waterproof jacket, pants, poncho and waterproof gloves.
Also prepare for four seasons. Many of the treks through the Andes involve many micro-climates and you will need to be prepared for all seasons. Layers are always key as they are easy to adjust to the different temperatures. And evenings will always be cold, so please be prepared with a warm, winter-weight jacket.
Travel Insurance
To protect your travel investment, we highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance. Obtaining travel insurance before you leave home is strongly encouraged and very easy. In fact, we work with a great agency in the United States that has helped to make it easy and affordable.
