TRUSTED SITE
Embark on an unforgettable 3-day journey through the heart of the ancient Inca Empire. The Sacred Legacy tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Peru's most iconic archaeological sites, combining the imperial grandeur of Cusco with the mystical beauty of the Sacred Valley and the world-famous wonder of Machu Picchu. Your adventure begins in Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, where you'll explore the legendary Koricancha (Temple of the Sun) and the impressive fortress of Sacsayhuaman. Day two takes you through the Sacred Valley, visiting the ancient terraces of Pisac, the mysterious circular ruins of Moray, and the stunning Maras Salt Mines before arriving in the charming town of Aguas Calientes. The journey culminates with an early morning visit to Machu Picchu, where you'll witness the sunrise over this magnificent citadel and enjoy a guided tour of its most significant structures.
Cusco is higher than Machu Picchu. Overnight in Aguas Calientes helps with acclimatization.
A Journey Through Inca Capitals and Andean Wonders
Your adventure begins in Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. After a morning of rest to acclimatize to the high altitude, you'll explore the city's most impressive archaeological sites including Koricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay. These sites showcase the incredible engineering and spiritual significance of Inca civilization.
Day two takes you through the Sacred Valley, visiting the expansive terraces of Pisac, the mysterious circular ruins of Moray, and the stunning Maras Salt Mines. The day concludes with a visit to Ollantaytambo before boarding the train to Aguas Calientes, where you'll spend the night in preparation for Machu Picchu.
The journey culminates on day three with an early morning visit to Machu Picchu. You'll witness the magical sunrise over the citadel before the crowds arrive, followed by a comprehensive guided tour of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. After free time to explore independently, you'll return by train and private transport to Cusco, arriving around 7:00 p.m.
Your adventure begins upon arrival at your Cusco hotel, where you will be warmly welcomed and receive a comprehensive briefing about the exciting days ahead. The morning is reserved for you to rest and acclimate to the high altitude, a crucial step for enjoying your Andean journey.
Your exploration of the Imperial City commences at the Convent of Santo Domingo, a colonial structure built upon the foundations of the legendary Koricancha, the Inca's main temple of the sun.
Visit the magnificent fortress of Sacsayhuaman, renowned for its massive, perfectly fitted stone walls that showcase the incredible engineering skills of the Inca civilization.
Complete the archaeological circuit with visits to the ceremonial sites of Qenqo, the 'red fortress' of Puca Pucará, and the tranquil water temple of Tambomachay.
As dusk settles over the Andes, you will be comfortably transported back to your hotel in Cusco, filled with the first impressions of the Inca's architectural genius. Overnight in Cusco.
Your exploration of the Sacred Valley begins with an early 7:30 a.m. pickup from your hotel. You will travel by private van, making a strategic stop at the Taray Viewpoint for stunning panoramic photos of the valley below.
The first major destination is the expansive archaeological site of Pisac, where you will have approximately two hours to explore its impressive terraces and ruins. After, a brief visit to the vibrant Pisac market.
The journey continues to Urubamba for a well-deserved lunch (not included). Fully refueled and ready for the afternoon adventures ahead.
Visit the enigmatic circular terraces of Moray, believed to be an Inca agricultural laboratory with concentric circles creating different microclimates.
Discover the colonial-era Maras Salt Mines, a striking landscape of thousands of salt-evaporation ponds still in use today since Inca times.
The afternoon's exploration concludes in Ollantaytambo, a living Inca town. You will explore its formidable ruins and the impressive Temple of the Sun.
In the evening, you will board the 7:04 p.m. train to Aguas Calientes, arriving at 8:45 p.m. and settling into your hotel for the night in preparation for your visit to Machu Picchu.
Today is the highlight of your journey. You will wake early to board one of the first buses ascending the winding road to Machu Picchu, aiming to arrive at the citadel in time to witness the magical sunrise over the mountains.
Upon entry, your expert guide will lead a comprehensive two-hour tour navigating you through the most significant parts of this wonder of the world, including the agricultural sector with its vast terraces, the residential areas, and the sacred religious sector.
You will learn about the history, architecture, and daily life of the Incas who inhabited this cloud city, with plenty of opportunities for iconic photos. After the tour, you will have free time to explore independently.
Take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Enjoy the charming town atmosphere before your return journey.
You will then board the Expedition train (departing at 2:55 p.m. or 3:20 p.m.) back to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, our private transport will be waiting to transfer you directly to your hotel in Cusco, concluding your incredible adventure around 7:00 p.m.
The Sacred Legacy is a comprehensive 3-day experience that combines the best of Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu. Unlike shorter tours, you'll have time to explore Cusco's imperial heritage including Koricancha and Sacsayhuaman, visit Moray and Maras Salt Mines, and arrive at Machu Picchu well-rested for the best experience.
Day 1 focuses on Cusco City Tour (Koricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, Tambomachay). Day 2 explores the Sacred Valley (Pisac, Moray, Maras, Ollantaytambo) before taking the train to Aguas Calientes. Day 3 is dedicated entirely to Machu Picchu before returning to Cusco.
The tour includes two nights of accommodation: Night 1 in Cusco and Night 2 in Aguas Calientes. Both are 3-star hotels with private bathroom, hot water, and breakfast. Upgrades to higher category hotels are available upon request at additional cost.
Breakfasts on Days 2 and 3 are included at your hotels. Day 2 includes lunch at a local restaurant in the Sacred Valley. Dinners are not included, giving you flexibility to explore local restaurants and try Peruvian cuisine on your own.
Day 1 in Cusco is at the highest altitude (3,400m), but includes rest time for acclimatization. The Sacred Valley on Day 2 is lower (2,800m), and Aguas Calientes (2,040m) is even lower. Machu Picchu sits at 2,430m. This gradual descent helps with acclimatization throughout the tour.
Koricancha was the most important temple in the Inca Empire, dedicated to the Sun God Inti. Its walls were once covered in gold sheets. Today, the Spanish colonial Church of Santo Domingo sits atop its foundations, creating a unique fusion of Inca and colonial architecture that showcases the remarkable precision of Inca stonework.
Yes! With a full day dedicated to Machu Picchu, you have time to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. These require separate permits that must be booked in advance due to daily limits. Let us know when booking and we can arrange the additional tickets.
The tour includes Expedition class round-trip train tickets (Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo). Upgrades to Vistadome class with panoramic windows are available at additional cost. The scenic 1.5-hour journey follows the Urubamba River through the cloud forest.
Pack a small bag for Aguas Calientes (one night's essentials). Larger luggage stays at your Cusco hotel. Essential items include: original passport, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, hat, rain jacket, layers for varying temperatures, camera, and cash for personal expenses.
The tour is moderate difficulty with walking on uneven terrain at archaeological sites. Sacsayhuaman and Pisac involve some climbing on stone steps. The pace is relaxed with plenty of breaks. Those with mobility concerns should consult us before booking.
We recommend booking 2-3 months in advance during peak season (May-October). Train tickets and Machu Picchu entry permits have daily limits and sell out quickly. For Huayna Picchu permits, book 3-4 months ahead.
This is a summary of our key terms. For complete details and full legal terms, please review our complete Terms and Conditions document.
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