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Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu

Starting point:
Cusco
Duration:
2 Days / 1 Night
Activities:
Altitude:
m.
Difficulty:
Easy

Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Huayna Picchu

Enjoy a wonderful journey that combines the most important archaeological treasures of the Peruvian Andes with the perfect dose of adventure. On this trip, you'll explore the unique landscapes of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, visiting colorful local markets and legendary pre-Hispanic stone fortresses. The experience reaches its peak on the second day, when you discover the mysteries of the citadel of Machu Picchu and challenge your limits by ascending to the mythical summit of Huayna Picchu mountain, from where you'll get the best panoramic views of this historic sanctuary.

This comprehensive 2-day, 1-night tour of the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Huayna Picchu is rated as easy overall, making it an ideal tour package to optimize your time from Cusco.

The all-inclusive service includes a pre-trip briefing, hotel pick-up, transfers in tourist transport, round-trip train tickets from Ollantaytambo, one night's accommodation in Aguas Calientes, and official entrance fees along with the Tourist Ticket. The itinerary details Day 1 dedicated to exploring the Inca terraces of Pisac, enjoying a buffet lunch in Urubamba, and touring Ollantaytambo; followed by Day 2 with bilingual guided tours of the archaeological complex and an approximately one-hour ascent to the summit of Huayna Picchu. To ensure a safe trek up these steep stairs, travelers are advised to carry their original passport, wear trekking shoes with good grip, a small backpack, sunscreen, and plenty of insect repellent.

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Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu
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Itinerary

DAY 1: Sacred Valley of the Incas

In the morning, our staff will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco, along with your tour guide and driver. The first destination will be the Pisac Market, located in the town of Pisac. Here you can explore the local market, where you'll find a wide variety of handicrafts, textiles, and food.

After visiting the market, you'll head to the Pisac ruins, an archaeological complex perched atop a mountain. Here you can admire the impressive agricultural terraces, temples, and panoramic views of the valley.

Next, you'll travel to Urubamba, where you'll enjoy a buffet lunch featuring typical regional dishes.

After lunch, you'll continue to the fortress of Ollantaytambo. This archaeological site is famous for its terraces, temples, and stone structures. You'll also have the opportunity to explore the town of Ollantaytambo, which retains its original Inca urban layout.

In the afternoon, you'll board the train from Ollantaytambo station to Aguas Calientes. Overnight in Aguas Calientes.

DAY 2: Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu

Early in the morning, we'll start the day with a delicious breakfast. Then, we'll head to the bus station, where we'll board the transport that will take us to the entrance of Machu Picchu.

Once at Machu Picchu, you'll have a guided tour to explore and learn about the history and culture of this ancient archaeological site. The guide will take you through the main points of interest and provide fascinating information about the Inca civilization.

After the guided tour, you'll have free time to explore Machu Picchu on your own, walk along the trails, and enjoy the panoramic views.

Then you can ascend Huayna Picchu mountain after your visit to Machu Picchu. The ascent can take about an hour, depending on your pace and fitness level. From the summit, you'll enjoy spectacular views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding area.

After your time at Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu, you'll return to Aguas Calientes by bus.

In the afternoon, you'll take the train back to Ollantaytambo, and from there, our staff will transfer you to Cusco in a comfortable vehicle.

Arrival in Cusco in the evening.

Inclusions

What's included?

  • Briefing: We will provide you with complete tour information the day before.
  • Hotel Pickup: We will pick you up from your hotel before the tour begins.
  • Transportation:
    • Round-trip tourist transportation during the tour.
    • Tourist train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and back.
  • Accommodation: One night's accommodation in Aguas Calientes.
  • Entrance Fees:
    • Tourist Ticket
    • Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu.
  • Local and Expert Guide: Professional guide fluent in English and Spanish for the tour.
  • Medical Assistance: The tour includes a basic first-aid kit aids

What's not included?

  • Food.
  • Personal expenses.
  • Other services not mentioned in the itinerary.

Packing list

Essentials

Valid ID card or passport with at least 6 months of validity beyond your travel dates

ISIC card (if you are a student and wish to qualify for a discounted rate)

Extra cash (Peruvian Soles recommended)

Clothing

Hat or cap

Comfortable walking or hiking shoes

Rain jacket during the rainy season (November to March)

Sunglasses

Gloves and a scarf for cold weather

Warm jacket for the Andean climate of Peru

Equipment

Camera

Power plug adapter

Small backpack

Reusable water bottle

Portable charger

Recommended

Snacks and energy bars

Disinfectant wipes

Respect the environment by avoiding littering and protecting archaeological sites

Recommendations

  • Bring your passport or ID (required to enter Machu Picchu).
  • Wear layers of clothing: cool mornings, very hot and humid midday.
  • Keep in mind that in Machu Picchu, if it's not raining, the sun is strong and stifling (burning heat and no wind).
  • Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen (essential).
  • Bring a raincoat or poncho in case it rains (it can get cold then).
  • Wear hiking boots or shoes with good grip (especially for Huayna Picchu).
  • Bring a small backpack, water, and light snacks.
  • Bring insect repellent (insects are common).
  • Stay hydrated: the climb to Huayna Picchu is demanding.
  • Maintain a steady pace Take your time and enjoy the scenery.
  • Avoid eating heavy meals before entering Machu Picchu.

    Make sure your cell phone or camera is fully charged and that you have an extra battery.

    Stay on marked trails and avoid approaching dangerous edges.

    In the Sacred Valley, bring an extra light layer of clothing: the weather is warmer than in Cusco.

    Bring cash for purchases, snacks, or handicrafts in Pisac and Ollantaytambo.

Recommended photo spots

Day 1 – Sacred Valley

  • Pisac viewpoints: sweeping views of the valley and terraces.
  • Pisac archaeological site: panoramic views of terraces and mountains.
  • Ollantaytambo – upper section: photos with the terraces and the town below Background.

Aguas Calientes

  • Main square of Aguas Calientes: Photo with the Inca statue, green mountains, and the sign “Machu Picchu Pueblo”.

Day 2 – Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu

  • High viewpoints of Machu Picchu: Classic panoramic photo of the entire citadel.
  • Path up to Huayna Picchu: Breathtaking views into the valley.
  • Summit of Huayna Picchu: Postcard-style photo with Machu Picchu below.
  • Stairs of Huayna Picchu (the steep stairs): Striking photo showing the incline and the abyss.
  • High terraces: A mix of ruins and mountains.
  • Areas with Inca walls and windows: Detailed photos with high contrast of light.

Faqs

Huayna Picchu is the iconic, craggy mountain that appears in the background of classic postcards of the citadel. Its ascent is shorter (taking between 45 minutes and 1 hour) but extremely steep, with very steep original stone staircases and narrow paths along the edge of the precipice (popularly known as the "Stairs of Death"). Machu Picchu Mountain, on the other hand, is taller, its path is much wider, and its ascent is longer and more gradual, making it ideal for those who fear heights.

The ascent of Huayna Picchu is of moderate to challenging difficulty. While you don't need to be a professional climber, a good level of fitness is required. It is not recommended for people who suffer from severe vertigo or heart problems. Furthermore, for safety reasons, Peruvian authorities enforce age restrictions for this trek (currently only permitted for those 12 years and older, and during certain seasons the restriction is 18 and over).

Under the new regulations for tourist circuits, the ticket for this mountain is called "Circuit 3 - Route 3A: Huayna Picchu Mountain." This means that your guided tour of the citadel will focus on the lower section or the Royal Circuit (where you'll see structures like the Temple of the Sun, the Inca House, and the Sacred Rock) before or after you tackle the exhilarating climb to the summit of Huayna Picchu.

It is strictly necessary to book at least 3 to 4 months in advance. Tickets to enter Huayna Picchu mountain are the most sought-after in the entire Historical Sanctuary and have a very limited daily capacity (around 400 slots per day divided into time slots). They sell out quickly, especially during peak season (May to October).

The package includes a delicious buffet lunch featuring typical dishes in the town of Urubamba during your Sacred Valley tour (Day 1). Breakfast is also included at your accommodation in Aguas Calientes on the morning of Day 2. All other meals (dinner and lunch on Day 2) are not included, giving you the freedom to choose from the wide variety of restaurants in Aguas Calientes.

For this particular tour, trekking shoes or footwear with excellent grip are essential. The steps of Huayna Picchu are made of smooth stone and can become slippery with the morning humidity of the cloud forest or in the event of light rain. Appropriate footwear will ensure your safety and comfort during the ascent.

No. Due to strict security policies of the train companies (PeruRail and Inca Rail), you are only allowed to board with a small backpack (maximum 5 to 8 kilos) containing the essentials for one night. Your main luggage or heavy suitcases must be securely stored in your hotel's storage facility in Cusco until your return.

Yes. Although Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu are located at a lower altitude (approximately 2,430 meters above sea level), the tour begins by crossing Cusco and parts of the Sacred Valley (such as Pisac and Urubamba), areas that range from 2,800 to 3,399 meters above sea level. It is recommended that you spend at least one or two days in Cusco acclimatizing before starting the tour to avoid altitude sickness, especially given the physical demands of climbing Huayna Picchu.

Pricing

Group Rate

Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu
(Price per person - minimum 2 people)

THE VOYAGER Train – IncaRail or EXPEDITION Train – PeruRail
Hotel 2*

USD 460.00

THE VOYAGER Train – IncaRail or EXPEDITION Train – PeruRail
3* Superior Hotel

USD 499.00

THE VOYAGER Train – IncaRail or EXPEDITION Train – PeruRail
4* hotel

USD 527.00
Itinerary

Itinerary

DAY 1: Sacred Valley of the Incas

In the morning, our staff will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco, along with your tour guide and driver. The first destination will be the Pisac Market, located in the town of Pisac. Here you can explore the local market, where you'll find a wide variety of handicrafts, textiles, and food.

After visiting the market, you'll head to the Pisac ruins, an archaeological complex perched atop a mountain. Here you can admire the impressive agricultural terraces, temples, and panoramic views of the valley.

Next, you'll travel to Urubamba, where you'll enjoy a buffet lunch featuring typical regional dishes.

After lunch, you'll continue to the fortress of Ollantaytambo. This archaeological site is famous for its terraces, temples, and stone structures. You'll also have the opportunity to explore the town of Ollantaytambo, which retains its original Inca urban layout.

In the afternoon, you'll board the train from Ollantaytambo station to Aguas Calientes. Overnight in Aguas Calientes.

DAY 2: Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu

Early in the morning, we'll start the day with a delicious breakfast. Then, we'll head to the bus station, where we'll board the transport that will take us to the entrance of Machu Picchu.

Once at Machu Picchu, you'll have a guided tour to explore and learn about the history and culture of this ancient archaeological site. The guide will take you through the main points of interest and provide fascinating information about the Inca civilization.

After the guided tour, you'll have free time to explore Machu Picchu on your own, walk along the trails, and enjoy the panoramic views.

Then you can ascend Huayna Picchu mountain after your visit to Machu Picchu. The ascent can take about an hour, depending on your pace and fitness level. From the summit, you'll enjoy spectacular views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding area.

After your time at Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu, you'll return to Aguas Calientes by bus.

In the afternoon, you'll take the train back to Ollantaytambo, and from there, our staff will transfer you to Cusco in a comfortable vehicle.

Arrival in Cusco in the evening.

Inclusions

Inclusions

What's included?

  • Briefing: We will provide you with complete tour information the day before.
  • Hotel Pickup: We will pick you up from your hotel before the tour begins.
  • Transportation:
    • Round-trip tourist transportation during the tour.
    • Tourist train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and back.
  • Accommodation: One night's accommodation in Aguas Calientes.
  • Entrance Fees:
    • Tourist Ticket
    • Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu.
  • Local and Expert Guide: Professional guide fluent in English and Spanish for the tour.
  • Medical Assistance: The tour includes a basic first-aid kit aids

What's not included?

  • Food.
  • Personal expenses.
  • Other services not mentioned in the itinerary.
Packing list

Packing list

Recommendations

Recommendations

  • Bring your passport or ID (required to enter Machu Picchu).
  • Wear layers of clothing: cool mornings, very hot and humid midday.
  • Keep in mind that in Machu Picchu, if it's not raining, the sun is strong and stifling (burning heat and no wind).
  • Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen (essential).
  • Bring a raincoat or poncho in case it rains (it can get cold then).
  • Wear hiking boots or shoes with good grip (especially for Huayna Picchu).
  • Bring a small backpack, water, and light snacks.
  • Bring insect repellent (insects are common).
  • Stay hydrated: the climb to Huayna Picchu is demanding.
  • Maintain a steady pace Take your time and enjoy the scenery.
  • Avoid eating heavy meals before entering Machu Picchu.

    Make sure your cell phone or camera is fully charged and that you have an extra battery.

    Stay on marked trails and avoid approaching dangerous edges.

    In the Sacred Valley, bring an extra light layer of clothing: the weather is warmer than in Cusco.

    Bring cash for purchases, snacks, or handicrafts in Pisac and Ollantaytambo.

Recommended photo spots

Day 1 – Sacred Valley

  • Pisac viewpoints: sweeping views of the valley and terraces.
  • Pisac archaeological site: panoramic views of terraces and mountains.
  • Ollantaytambo – upper section: photos with the terraces and the town below Background.

Aguas Calientes

  • Main square of Aguas Calientes: Photo with the Inca statue, green mountains, and the sign “Machu Picchu Pueblo”.

Day 2 – Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu

  • High viewpoints of Machu Picchu: Classic panoramic photo of the entire citadel.
  • Path up to Huayna Picchu: Breathtaking views into the valley.
  • Summit of Huayna Picchu: Postcard-style photo with Machu Picchu below.
  • Stairs of Huayna Picchu (the steep stairs): Striking photo showing the incline and the abyss.
  • High terraces: A mix of ruins and mountains.
  • Areas with Inca walls and windows: Detailed photos with high contrast of light.
Faqs

Faqs

Huayna Picchu is the iconic, craggy mountain that appears in the background of classic postcards of the citadel. Its ascent is shorter (taking between 45 minutes and 1 hour) but extremely steep, with very steep original stone staircases and narrow paths along the edge of the precipice (popularly known as the "Stairs of Death"). Machu Picchu Mountain, on the other hand, is taller, its path is much wider, and its ascent is longer and more gradual, making it ideal for those who fear heights.

The ascent of Huayna Picchu is of moderate to challenging difficulty. While you don't need to be a professional climber, a good level of fitness is required. It is not recommended for people who suffer from severe vertigo or heart problems. Furthermore, for safety reasons, Peruvian authorities enforce age restrictions for this trek (currently only permitted for those 12 years and older, and during certain seasons the restriction is 18 and over).

Under the new regulations for tourist circuits, the ticket for this mountain is called "Circuit 3 - Route 3A: Huayna Picchu Mountain." This means that your guided tour of the citadel will focus on the lower section or the Royal Circuit (where you'll see structures like the Temple of the Sun, the Inca House, and the Sacred Rock) before or after you tackle the exhilarating climb to the summit of Huayna Picchu.

It is strictly necessary to book at least 3 to 4 months in advance. Tickets to enter Huayna Picchu mountain are the most sought-after in the entire Historical Sanctuary and have a very limited daily capacity (around 400 slots per day divided into time slots). They sell out quickly, especially during peak season (May to October).

The package includes a delicious buffet lunch featuring typical dishes in the town of Urubamba during your Sacred Valley tour (Day 1). Breakfast is also included at your accommodation in Aguas Calientes on the morning of Day 2. All other meals (dinner and lunch on Day 2) are not included, giving you the freedom to choose from the wide variety of restaurants in Aguas Calientes.

For this particular tour, trekking shoes or footwear with excellent grip are essential. The steps of Huayna Picchu are made of smooth stone and can become slippery with the morning humidity of the cloud forest or in the event of light rain. Appropriate footwear will ensure your safety and comfort during the ascent.

No. Due to strict security policies of the train companies (PeruRail and Inca Rail), you are only allowed to board with a small backpack (maximum 5 to 8 kilos) containing the essentials for one night. Your main luggage or heavy suitcases must be securely stored in your hotel's storage facility in Cusco until your return.

Yes. Although Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu are located at a lower altitude (approximately 2,430 meters above sea level), the tour begins by crossing Cusco and parts of the Sacred Valley (such as Pisac and Urubamba), areas that range from 2,800 to 3,399 meters above sea level. It is recommended that you spend at least one or two days in Cusco acclimatizing before starting the tour to avoid altitude sickness, especially given the physical demands of climbing Huayna Picchu.

Pricing

Pricing

Group Rate

Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu

THE VOYAGER Train – IncaRail or EXPEDITION Train – PeruRail
Hotel 2*

USD 460.00

THE VOYAGER Train – IncaRail or EXPEDITION Train – PeruRail
3* Superior Hotel

USD 499.00

THE VOYAGER Train – IncaRail or EXPEDITION Train – PeruRail
4* hotel

USD 527.00

Steps to reserve

1.Book easily through our form

2. Verify the information and complete the payment.

3. Receive your booking confirmation by email.

1. Book easily through our form

Press the Book Now button to access our booking system. There you will need to complete the following information:

  1. Date and alternative date of travel.
  2. Number of travelers.
  3. Traveler details.
  4. Additional services if desired.
  5. Contact details.
2. Verify the information and complete the payment.

After entering your details and continuing, you will need to accept the terms and conditions to proceed with the payment..

Payments are processed securely through the IZI PAY platform.

3. Receive your booking confirmation by email.
If your payment is processed successfully, you will receive a confirmation email with your booking details. That's it! It's that easy.
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