7 Days Cusco and Machu Picchu Exclusive

Overview

Explore the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu.
Take in impressive views of three mountain ranges in the beautiful Sacred Valley.
Marvel at the churches, cathedrals, plazas and markets in the great Inca city of Cuzco.
Discover the charming town of Ollantaytambo.
Enjoy the historic city of Cuzco with an extra day at leisure.

This one week trip explores the famous sites of the Incas including Cuzco and the Sacred Valley, concluding with the magnificent citadel of Machu Picchu. Rather than rush back to Cuzco, we spend a night at Aguas Calientes. We also spend ample time in Cuzco savoring this great Inca city.

The Sacred Valley, located high in the Andes, is one of the most beautiful places in South America. Full history, culture, and stunning natural scenery, it’s a perfect mix of ancient ruins and lively local traditions.

A journey through Cuzco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore the Inca legacy, and the stunning beauty of the Andean mountains.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking to experience something new, this trip offers the chance to discover the heart of Inca civilization.

Why Visit Cuzco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu?

This trip to Cuzco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu is a dream come true for anyone interested in history, and natural beauty. With ample time to explore the majestic ruins, interact with local cultures, and enjoy the spectacular views.

No matter if it’s your first time visiting or you’ve traveled extensively, this journey through the heart of the Inca Empire promises to be an incredible experience. As you explore the ancient ruins, stunning landscapes, and vibrant local culture, you’ll be immersed in the rich history of the Incas.

From the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu to the charming streets of Cuzco and the peaceful Sacred Valley, every moment offers something special. The incredible sights, the unique traditions, and the warm hospitality of the people will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for this fascinating part of the world.

Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in one of the most culturally rich regions in the world. Book your trip today and explore the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, and the incredible Cuzco!

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive in Cusco

Upon arrival in Cuzco at 3,400m, you will be meet by our representative and transferred to the hotel for a general information briefing about each day’s activities. Then you have free time to start to acclimatize to the altitude.

Day 2 In and around Cusco

Every alleyway we enter or corner we turn brings another surprise or enigma in the form of the superbly constructed Inca walls or the more architecturally extravagant colonial churches and palaces. The city, once capital of the extensive Inca Empire, has seen many changes since Francisco Pizarro’s men took it with such apparent ease in November 1533. We will also take a short drive to visit the monolithic walls of Sacsayhuaman, spectacularly set above the city. In the afternoon you may have time to explore some of the central parts of the city and a chance to look at some of the great varieties of local craftwork on sale in open air stalls and shops.

Day 3 Drive to the Sacred valley of The Incas

We leave Cuzco and head to Chinchero Plateau to explore Chinchero, an important town in Inca times. The most striking remnant of this period is the massive stone wall in the main plaza which has ten trapezoidal niches. There are beautiful views overlooking the Sacred Valley of the Incas, with the Cordillera Urubamba and the snow-capped peak of Salkantay dominating the western horizon. Chinchero is believed to be the mythical birthplace of the rainbow. You’ll then visit the salt mines of Maras. This village is a salt-producing center that dates back all the way to pre-Inca times, with over 3000 salt pools all carved into the mountain side. Discover Moray’s mysterious concentric circular terraces which, according to some scholars, was an agricultural research center.

After unch in a local restaurant, we will visit the Ollantaytambo archaeological site. We will then go to the hotel to relax and enjoy the beauty of the famous Sacred Valley.

Day 4 Train to Machu Picchu

From our hotel, we drive to the railway station at Ollantaytambo where we take an early morning train to Machu Picchu. Our early start ensures that we can thoroughly explore this remarkable and truly enigmatic citadel. We will enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu citadel which lasts 2 hours or more. After lunch, you will have free time to explore this fascinating site on your own. Then we will take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, where we spend the night.

Day 5 At Machu Picchu and return to Cusco

This morning we arrive at the ruins in time for the opening and savor the views and the atmosphere as the light changes with the sunrise. Then we hike up Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain – an option for the more adventurous, Itt takes minimum 2.5 hours Machu Picchu Mountain and Huaynapicchu mountain 1.5 hours and some time at the top. Both climbs are very steep (including many small and narrow steps)that can be slippery and are quite very exposed with vertiginous drops. We require any passengers to sign a waiver form. (Note – there are limited Huayna Picchu permits and they sell out fast.) In the afternoon, we descend from Machu Picchu to go to the Aguas Calientes railway station for the train ride back to Ollantaytambo where we meet our representative and our vehicle to drive us back to Cuzco.

Day 6 Free day to explore Cusco

A good day to relax and perhaps do some ‘tourist shopping’, selecting from a great variety of expertly made craftwork – including alpaca sweaters and hats, ceramics, weavings and traditional Andean instruments. In and around Cuzco there are a number of day trips that can be booked and paid for locally.