Overview
The magnificent Sacred Valley of the Incas winds its way past the towering hilltop citadels of Písac and Ollantaytambo to eventually culminate in the awe-inspiring “lost city” of Machu Picchu. In this realm of mountain splendor and ancient culture, we explore temple-fortresses and Inca-planned towns and enjoy a special “pachamanca” feast in a remote Andean village. We’ll sample Peru’s acclaimed cuisine, meet weavers and artisans, then finish with a grand overnight stay at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, just steps from the ruins, which gives us fantastic and unrushed access.
Itinerary at a Glance
Days 1-2
Cusco, the Inca Capital
We discover Cusco’s impressive Inca sites, including majestic Saqsayhuaman, and walk the cobbled lanes of the fascinating San Blas district, home to artisans since the time of the Incas. Overnights are at the historic Hotel Monasterio.
Days 3-5
Sacred Valley of the Incas / Písac / Ollantaytambo
In the stunning Sacred Valley, sculpted by Inca-built agricultural terracing, we examine the Inca stonework at Písac, a temple-ruin clinging to a mountain spur, and visit atmospheric Chinchero, home to a legendary artisan market. In the early morning, when the light is dramatic and there are fewer visitors, we explore the Inca fortress at Ollantaytambo and the quaint 13th century town below it, which still has its original Inca town plan. With three days in the valley, we also visit off-the-beaten-path gems, including a wonderfully remote village where we’re hosted for a pachamanca (a roast slow-cooked over hot stones in the ground). Generations of WT’s renowned Inca Trail crew and porters live in the village and it has a strong heritage of artisan weaving.
Days 6-8
Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge / Cusco
An early morning ride on the Vistadome train brings us to Machu Picchu for our unforgettable overnight stay at the Sanctuary Lodge, right at the gates of this indescribable Inca city. Many travelers rush in and out of here in a few hours, but our overnight stay gives us easy access for multiple entries to the ruins with our specialist guide, including a sunrise visit and chance to climb Huayna Picchu, the striking peak directly behind the sanctuary. Depart via Cusco on Day 8.
Treasures of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu
Highlights
Highlights
Details
Cultural and walking tours of 2-3 hours, elevations from 11,200 feet in Cusco to 13,779 feet in an Andean village
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Magical Machu Picchu and the Land of the Incas
With your private guide, explore Cusco, ancient heart of the Inca Empire, and the beautiful Urubamba Valley, sacred to the Incas, then head to glorious Machu Picchu, perched on a sheer precipice 1,500 feet above the Urubamba River.
