SACRED VALLED – MACHUPICCHU- HUAYNAPICCHU.
The Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu Tour is a truly unforgettable experience, allowing you to explore some of the most spectacular and iconic sites in Peru. This adventure begins with a journey to the ancient Sacred Valley of the Incas, located in the Cusco region. Where travelers will have the opportunity to visit renowned archaeological sites like Pisac and Ollantaytambo, considered among the best places to explore.
After exploring the Sacred Valley of the Incas, we’ll visit Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and one of the most impressive archaeological treasures of humanity. The adventure doesn’t end there. You’ll also have the chance to climb to the summit of Huayna Picchu, along the path famously known as the “Stairs of Death”. This steep ascent is challenging, but once you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of Machu Picchu and its surrounding mountains.
Without a doubt, this Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Huayna Picchu tour will leave you with unforgettable moments, enriching you both personally and culturally. It will foster a deep appreciation for the wonderful diversity of our world and the greatness
Duration
2 Days
Altitude Max.
2,200 msnm.
Group Size
1-15
Difficulty
Moderate
Itinerary
Our adventure to the Sacred Valley will begin at 7:00 a.m. with pickup from their hotels. We will then begin our visit to the Pisac Archaeological Complex, located about 45 minutes from Cusco. Pisac offers a glimpse into the advanced knowledge of the Incas, reflected in its extensive agricultural terraces, architecture, and urban planning.
It has a special charm as it is part of the Qhapaq Ñan (Inca road system), which connected the Manu Biosphere Reserve and served as a route to Cusco, the center or navel of the world. After visiting the Pisac Archaeological Site, we will explore its charming town, walking through its streets to the famous artisan market, where you will find unique and varied items such as paintings, key chains, handicrafts, and more.
At noon, we will head to Urubamba, where we will enjoy a buffet lunch with delicious Peruvian cuisine.
Next, we will visit the Ollantaytambo Archaeological Complex, which served as a strategic military, agricultural, and religious center for the administration and control of the Sacred Valley. This is evidenced by the structures believed to have been used for agricultural storage and military purposes, such as walls and watchtowers.
In Ollantaytambo, we will board our train in the late afternoon to Aguas Calientes, a charming town where we will spend the night to conclude the day.
After breakfast, our guide will pick us up from our hotel and take us to the bus station, where we will embark on a 25-minute journey to the Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. Here, you will explore this marvel in detail, an impressive fusion of engineering, art, and architecture in harmony with nature. We will tour the agricultural and urban areas, admiring plazas, temples, paths, stairways, and aqueducts.
Each structure, composed of imposing, finely carved stone blocks, tells a story of ancient skill and wisdom. This exciting guided tour lasts approximately 3 hours. After completing the tour of the Machu Picchu Citadel, you will begin the ascent to Huayna Picchu, located 2,667 meters above sea level. This exhilarating climb is known as the “Stairway of Death” due to its steep and challenging trails.
The hike to the summit of Huayna Picchu takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, but every step is worth it, as you will be rewarded with spectacular views of the Inca Citadel and its magnificent architecture. From the summit, we can marvel at the majesty of Machu Picchu and the beauty of its mountainous surroundings. The hike can be challenging, but the effort is rewarded with a sense of accomplishment and the privilege of gazing at this wonder of the world from its highest point: an exciting and unforgettable experience that will remain etched in your heart forever.
After completing the visits, we will return to the town of Aguas Calientes. There, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a delicious lunch before boarding the return train. Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, we will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Cusco, marking the end of your exciting tour of the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Huayna Picchu.
- Pre-tour assistance.
- Transfers in tourist transportation.
- Assistance during the whole tour.
- Professional guided tour, English — Spanish.
- All entrance tickets to archaeological sites and tourist attractions mentioned in the tour.
- Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 1 or 2 to get the classic photo (according to availability).
- Entrance to circuit 3 + Huayna Picchu.
- Guided service in Machu Picchu + Wayna Picchu.
- Train ticket, Ollantaytambo — Aguas Calientes, round trip.
- Bus ticket Aguas Calientes — Machu Picchu, round trip.
- Buffet lunch in Urubamba.
- Hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- Pre-tour assistance.
- Transfers in tourist transportation.
- Assistance during the whole tour.
- Professional guided tour, English — Spanish.
- All entrance tickets to archaeological sites and tourist attractions mentioned in the tour.
- Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 1 or 2 to get the classic photo (according to availability).
- Entrance to circuit 3 + Huayna Picchu.
- Guided service in Machu Picchu + Wayna Picchu.
- Train ticket, Ollantaytambo — Aguas Calientes, round trip.
- Bus ticket Aguas Calientes — Machu Picchu, round trip.
- Buffet lunch in Urubamba.
- Hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Recommendation
IMPORTANT: Huayna Picchu Mountain is limited to an entrance of 400 visitors per day and is open from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM. That's why it is recommended to book the entrance ticket two months in advance.
- Be sure to book the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu tour in advance.
- Bring your passport or a valid ID.
- Arrive at the train station at least 30 minutes early.
- At Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu, there are many stairs to climb, so wear appropriate non-slip shoes.
- Bring a small backpack with a camera, a sun hat, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and a water bottle.
- Exercise caution when climbing Huayna Picchu, as there are many steps, narrow paths, and steep drop-offs. The hike is safe as long as you follow the guide's recommendations.
- Don't miss the hot springs in Aguas Calientes.
- You can only bring up to 5 kilograms of luggage on the train.
- During high season, the number of visitors to Machu Picchu increases, so be prepared for possible queues to board the bus to the Machu Picchu Sanctuary.
Faq's
The hike is considered moderately challenging due to steep and narrow paths, including the famous “Stairs of Death.” It takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours round-trip and is suitable for travelers with a good fitness level.
You’ll spend one night in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town). Options for upgrades or specific hotel preferences may be available.
Recommended items include:
- Passport (required for entry).
- Comfortable walking shoes.
- Lightweight and breathable clothing.
- Rain jacket or poncho.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat.
- Water bottle and snacks.
- Camera.
- Small backpack for personal items.
It is best to book at least 1 to 2 months in advance, especially if you want to climb Huayna Picchu, as entry tickets are limited and sell out quickly.
Yes, you can opt out of the Huayna Picchu climb. In that case, you can enjoy more time exploring Machu Picchu or visiting other areas like the Sun Gate or Inca Bridge.
The general tour is suitable for most ages, but the Huayna Picchu hike is not recommended for young children, seniors with limited mobility, or those with vertigo due to its steep and narrow path.
Weather can vary but is generally mild and humid. The dry season (April to October) offers the best conditions for hiking, while the rainy season (November to March) can bring occasional showers.
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