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Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Machu Picchu
Explore the grandeur of Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, on a 2-day, 1-night trip designed to provide you with a comprehensive and unforgettable experience. Immerse yourself in the cultural richness of the Incas, enjoy majestic Andean landscapes, and rest in the charming town of Aguascalientes, prior to your visit to the iconic Inca city.
This tour is ideal for those who want to establish a connection with history and nature, avoiding the demands of a single-day trip. We start from Cusco with a panoramic train ride, giving you the opportunity to contemplate the Sacred Valley as you approach one of the world's most intriguing places.
Your two-day Machu Picchu expedition begins when we pick you up from your hotel and take you to the train station in Ollantaytambo. The train departs at 12:55 p.m., allowing you to avoid an early start. During the ride, you'll admire the landscapes of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, including mountains, rivers, and agricultural terraces. After about an hour and a half along the Urubamba River, you'll arrive in Aguas Calientes, where your guide will escort you to the hotel to drop off your belongings. In this town, you'll get around on foot, as there are no vehicles. Afterward, enjoy lunch at one of the top restaurants in the area before exploring Aguas Calientes at your own pace. You can stroll through its picturesque streets, relax in one of its cafés or restaurants, and appreciate the stone-carved sculptures. You may also consider additional activity options to make the most of your time in this charming place.
In your free time in Aguas Calientes after lunch, you can relax in the hot springs located just minutes from the town center, perfect for unwinding after your visit to Machu Picchu. Visiting the artisan market is also recommended, where you’ll find unique souvenirs and local crafts. For a deeper dive into Inca history, the Museum offers fascinating archaeological and cultural exhibits. If you prefer a nature walk, the Mandor Botanical Garden is an excellent choice, surrounded by waterfalls and local vegetation. Each activity enhances your experience with a unique perspective of the area.
On this day, you will visit Machu Picchu, the renowned Sacred City of the Inca civilization.
Your guide will recommend the best time to start your day. Most visitors prefer to wake up at 4:00 a.m. and walk to the bus station to catch one of the early buses to Machu Picchu.
It's a wonderful experience to arrive at the ruins as they open at 6:00 a.m. to appreciate the sunrise at the archaeological complex after a 25-minute bus journey.
The guide will take you to a strategic viewpoint where you can observe Machu Picchu's Inca architecture and, weather permitting, witness the sunrise from a privileged spot. Capture your classic Machu Picchu photo before more hikers arrive.
Next, a two-hour guided walking tour will begin, exploring the most iconic sites of this impressive Inca citadel such as the Temple of the Sun, the Royal Tomb, the Intiwatana (sun dial rock), the Main Plaza, the Temple of the Three Windows, the artisan sector, the Temple of the Condor, and many others.
After the tour, you will have free time to explore the ruins on your own. If you wish to climb Huayna Picchu* (must be booked in advance as tickets sell out and has an additional cost of $68 per person), your guide will indicate where this hike begins, which takes no more than 2 hours round trip.
Another option is Machu Picchu Mountain, offering a more challenging hike that takes at least three hours round trip (with an additional cost of $68 per person).
For your return from Machu Picchu, we recommend returning to Aguas Calientes at least 2 hours before the train departure so you can enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants.
Ensure you arrive at the train station 30 minutes before departure. Our train usually departs at 4:20 p.m. to Ollantaytambo, where you will take our private transportation back to Cusco, approximately a two-hour journey.
If you prefer to upgrade to the Vistadome train service, you will have the option to depart at either 4:43 p.m. or 5:23 p.m. Both Vistadome trains will take you to Poroy Station, where our driver will pick you up and take you back to Cusco.
Duffel Bag: A sturdy, appropriately sized bag to carry your personal belongings during the trip.
Daypack: A small backpack for carrying essential items during the tour.
Backpack Cover: To protect the daypack in case of rain.
Hiking Boots: Sturdy and comfortable footwear with good traction for varied terrain.
Wool Hat or Beanie: To keep your head warm in cooler temperatures or early mornings.
T-shirt: A breathable, moisture-wicking shirt as a base layer for the day.
Mid-layer: A lightweight, insulating layer to regulate body temperature.
Waterproof Jacket: Ideally waterproof or water-resistant, or a poncho to protect against unexpected rain.
Pants: Comfortable, quick-drying hiking pants.
Gloves: To keep hands warm in colder or higher-altitude conditions.
Sunglasses: To protect eyes from the sun and glare.
Essential Items: Original Passport: Required for identification and entry to Machu Picchu.
Physical Student ID: (if applicable for student discount).
Daypack: A small backpack for carrying essential items during the tour.
Camera: To capture stunning landscapes and unforgettable memories.
Water: It's recommended to carry at least 2 liters of water, but you can also buy additional water along the way.
Snacks: Protein bars, dried fruits, nuts, and candies or mints to maintain energy levels.
Additional considerations: Adapter and Surge Protector: For use in Cusco and other locations before and after the trip.
Water purification tablets: To purify water if necessary during the trekking.
Electrolyte Sachets: To add to your water and maintain energy during trekking.
Water bottle with purification system: If you prefer to purify water from sources.
Hot water bottle: To stay warm during the nights.
Remember, the list of prohibited items at Machu Picchu is extensive, so it's important to review it carefully before packing. Also, always ensure to carry your passport as it is essential for entry.
Cusco airport currently only operates domestic flights. All international passengers arriving by plane must disembark in Lima and go through customs there. It's important to note that due to Cusco's high altitude, flights may experience delays or cancellations. Additionally, any weather changes can halt air traffic. If you prefer an alternative by land, buses are a viable option. However, the journey can be long, especially from Lima. Buses from Lima can take approximately 20 hours to reach Cusco.
Ausangate Adventure can pick you up from your hotel, provided it is located in Cusco's Historic Center. During the briefing, your guide will coordinate the meeting time, but please allow for a waiting time of 30 to 45 minutes due to local traffic. Cusco has narrow, cobblestone streets that may make access to some hotels and Airbnbs difficult. Some locations may be in areas without vehicular access or on steep inclines, complicating luggage transport. Booking accommodation with easy access is recommended to facilitate transportation.
You can safely leave any additional luggage in Cusco, either at your hotel or with us at Ausangate Adventure while you embark on your hike. We will handle storing your luggage in the morning before your hike starts and return it to you once you're back in Cusco. It's important to ensure your bags are clearly labeled for easy retrieval.
As soon as people book their trip to Peru, especially to Cusco, concerns about altitude sickness arise. At high altitudes, the air contains less oxygen than at sea level, forcing your body to work harder to obtain the oxygen it needs. After several days at altitude, your body adapts to the lower oxygen levels.
Altitude sickness can make you feel like you have the flu or a hangover. You may experience headaches, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, trouble sleeping, and difficulty breathing during exertion. If these symptoms worsen, contact our office and we will assist you in reaching a doctor.
Most of the time, these symptoms will be mild. We always recommend gradually adjusting to physical activity, allowing your body to acclimate. Drink plenty of fluids such as water or coca tea. Coca tea has been used since ancient times to help prevent altitude sickness. Coca leaves contain alkaloids that help transport oxygen in the blood, aiding your body in mitigating the effects of altitude sickness. Avoid consuming large amounts of alcohol and coffee, as they increase urination frequency and can dehydrate you. Avoid smoking, as it hinders oxygen absorption, and avoid sleeping pills as they can cause shallow breathing overnight, making oxygen absorption difficult while you sleep.
Your doctor may prescribe medications like acetazolamide and dexamethasone to help prevent altitude sickness. Start taking the medication two days before reaching high altitudes and continue taking it while at altitude.
The weather can be highly unpredictable. Generally, the dry season in Cusco runs from April to October, but that doesn't mean it won't rain in June or be sunny in December. Just be prepared. No matter what month you hike, make sure to bring rain gear, including a waterproof jacket, waterproof pants, a poncho, and waterproof gloves.
Also, prepare for all four seasons. Many hikes through the Andes traverse various microclimates, so you need to be ready for any type of weather. Layering clothing is essential as it allows you to easily adapt to different temperatures. Nights will always be cold, so make sure to bring a warm winter jacket.
Tour in shared service.
This group service means that you will take the tour with other people, this standard service is done with a group between 12 to 18 people, we have confirmed departures for every day, so if it is only one or two people, don't worry, they can join to one of our groups.
From: $415
Tour in private service.
This service is an exclusive way to make this trip where the service is much more personalized, prices vary according to the number of people in your group. Please consult info@ausangateadventure.com WhatsApp +51 914201334
This tour allows you to explore Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, comfortably and comprehensively. You will travel by train through the Sacred Valley, enjoy accommodation in Aguas Calientes, and have free time to explore the Inca citadel at your own pace.
Most US citizens do not need a visa to enter Peru for stays up to 90 days. However, it's important to check visa requirements with the Peruvian embassy or consulate in your country before traveling.
You should bring comfortable and warm clothing for all weather conditions, as Cusco's climate can be variable. It's also important to bring a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes.
It is strongly recommended to purchase travel insurance that covers medical expenses, evacuation, and trip cancellation.
Overall, the tour is safe if you follow the tour guide's instructions and take basic safety precautions. However, it's important to be aware of potential risks such as altitude sickness and pickpocketing.
In the Sacred Valley, you will visit the Maras Salt Mines, the agricultural terraces of Moray, and the town of Chinchero. You will also enjoy stunning landscapes, learn about Inca culture, and shop for local crafts. At Machu Picchu, you will explore the Inca citadel and learn about its history and architecture. You will also have free time to enjoy panoramic views of the Sacred Valley.
Acclimate to the altitude before starting the tour.
Drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness.
Use sunscreen and insect repellent.
Respect local culture and the environment.
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