Experiential tour Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu 3D/2N
Community-Based Tourism in Misminay, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu
During this experiential tour in Cusco, we will visit some of the main attractions of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, including Chinchero, the Maras Salt Mines, Moray, and Ollantaytambo. We will also enjoy a community-based tourism experience in Misminay, where we will spend time with local families and learn about their cultural traditions, textile techniques, and agricultural activities, depending on the season and the community’s scheduled program.
During our stay in Misminay, we may learn about traditional spinning, weaving, and dyeing techniques using natural dyes, take part in agricultural activities available according to the time of year, and discover practices connected to the Andean worldview, such as a traditional ceremony of gratitude and an offering to Pachamama, when included in the community’s program.
To complete the tour, we will travel to Machu Picchu, where we will enjoy a guided visit following the circuit and route indicated on the confirmed entrance ticket. During the tour, we will explore the main archaeological areas permitted along the reserved route before returning to Cusco.
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Overview
DAY 1: CUSCO – CHINCHERO – MARAS – MORAY – MISMINAY COMMUNITY
- 7:30 a.m.: Pickup from your hotel in Cusco and start of the tour.
- Visit Chinchero, including its archaeological complex and colonial church.
- Visit the Maras Salt Mines and Moray.
- Approximately 1:30 p.m.: Arrival at the Misminay community and traditional lunch.
- In the afternoon, explore the community and hike to one of its scenic viewpoints.
- Family dinner, cultural activity featuring traditional clothing, bonfire, and overnight stay in a local family home.
DAY 2: COMMUNITY-BASED TOURISM – OLLANTAYTAMBO – MACHU PICCHU PUEBLO
- Family breakfast.
- Community-based tourism, textile, and agricultural activities depending on the season.
- Demonstration of traditional spinning, weaving, and dyeing techniques using natural dyes.
- Traditional gratitude ceremony and offering to Pachamama, depending on the community’s schedule.
- Approximately 1:00 p.m.: Lunch and participation in the preparation of a pachamanca.
- Approximately 2:00 p.m.: Farewell to Misminay and transfer to Ollantaytambo.
- Visit to the Ollantaytambo Archaeological Park.
- Free time to explore the town of Ollantaytambo.
- Transfer to the train station.
- Approximately 7:00 p.m.: Train journey to Machu Picchu Pueblo.
- Arrival in Machu Picchu Pueblo and transfer to the hotel.
- Overnight stay in a 3-star hotel.
DAY 3: MACHU PICCHU TOUR – CUSCO
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Transfer to the bus station and bus ride up to Machu Picchu.
- Guided visit to Machu Picchu according to the circuit and entrance time stated on the reserved ticket.
- Optional: Hike to Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain, requiring an additional ticket and subject to availability.
- Bus ride down to Machu Picchu Pueblo.
- Free time for lunch.
- Lunch is not included.
- Optional visit to the hot springs, if the schedule allows.
- Approximately 2:55 p.m.: Train journey to Ollantaytambo.
- Reception at the station and transfer to Cusco.
- Transfer to your hotel.
- Estimated arrival in Cusco: 6:30 p.m.
DAY 1: CUSCO – CHINCHERO – MARAS – MORAY – MISMINAY COMMUNITY
Our experiential tour in Cusco begins at 7:30 a.m. with pickup from your hotel. Cusco is located at approximately 3,399 m / 11,152 ft above sea level.
From the city, we will travel toward the upper area of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Our first stop will be Chinchero, located at approximately 3,750 m / 12,303 ft, where we will visit its archaeological complex and colonial church.
We will then continue to the Maras Salt Mines, located at approximately 3,000 m / 9,843 ft. Here, we will see the numerous salt pools traditionally used for salt production.
Our journey continues to Moray, located at approximately 3,385 m / 11,106 ft. This archaeological site is known for its large concentric circular terraces and is commonly associated with Inca agricultural practices and the adaptation of crops to different environmental conditions.
After our visit, we will travel to the Misminay community, located at approximately 3,750 m / 12,303 ft. Upon arrival, local families will welcome us, and we will enjoy a lunch prepared with locally sourced ingredients.
After lunch, we will explore part of the community and learn more about the local lifestyle, customs, and traditions. We will also hike to one of the community’s viewpoints, where we can admire the Andean scenery, surrounding mountains, and the landscape around Moray.
In the evening, we will enjoy dinner with a local family. Around the bonfire, there may be opportunities to share local stories and traditions and participate in a cultural activity featuring traditional clothing.
Overnight stay in a family home in Misminay.
DAY 2: COMMUNITY-BASED TOURISM – OLLANTAYTAMBO – AGUAS CALIENTE
After a family breakfast, we will take part in different community-based tourism activities organized by the families of Misminay.
Depending on the time of year and the agricultural work being carried out in the community, we may observe or participate in activities such as preparing the land, planting, tending crops, or harvesting local products. Because these activities follow the agricultural calendar, the specific experience may vary depending on your travel date.
We will also learn about the traditional processes of spinning, weaving, and dyeing with natural dyes. Local artisans will share the techniques used to create different textile pieces and explain the cultural importance of these traditions.
Depending on the community’s scheduled activities, we may also have the opportunity to observe a traditional ceremony of gratitude and an offering to Pachamama, conducted with respect for local beliefs and traditions.
At around 1:00 p.m., we will participate in the preparation of a pachamanca. This traditional Andean cooking technique involves preparing different foods using stones that have been heated beforehand. The ingredients depend on the menu arranged by the community and will make up our lunch for the day.
After lunch, we will say goodbye to the families of Misminay and travel by private transportation to Ollantaytambo.
Ollantaytambo is located at approximately 2,860 m / 9,383 ft. We will enjoy a guided visit to its archaeological park during the site’s official opening hours.
After the visit, we will have time to explore part of the town. Ollantaytambo preserves an important historic layout, as well as streets, water channels, and structures of Inca origin that remain part of its urban landscape today.
We will then head to the Ollantaytambo train station to board the train to Machu Picchu Pueblo. Departure is expected at approximately 7:00 p.m.; however, the final departure time will depend on the confirmed train service.
During the journey, we will follow the Urubamba River Valley until reaching Machu Picchu Pueblo, also known as Aguas Calientes, located at approximately 2,040 m / 6,693 ft.
Upon arrival, assistance will be provided for your transfer to the hotel.
Overnight stay in Machu Picchu Pueblo.
DAY 3: MACHU PICCHU TOUR – CUSCO
Today we will visit Machu Picchu. After breakfast, we will head to the bus station for the ride from Machu Picchu Pueblo up to the archaeological site.
The departure time from the hotel will depend on the entrance time indicated on your Machu Picchu ticket. Because tickets are reserved for a specific circuit, route, date, and time, the morning itinerary will be organized according to the confirmed reservation.
Machu Picchu is located at approximately 2,430 m / 7,972 ft above sea level. We will enjoy a guided tour lasting approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on the assigned circuit and route.
During the visit, our guide will explain the history, architecture, and purpose of the main archaeological areas included along your designated route. Due to the current circuit system, it is not possible to guarantee access to every temple, building, and sector of Machu Picchu with a single entrance ticket.
Optional: Travelers who have reserved a specific ticket in advance for Huayna Picchu Mountain, approximately 2,682 m / 8,799 ft, or Machu Picchu Mountain, approximately 3,082 m / 10,112 ft, will follow the corresponding hiking route according to the entrance time indicated on their ticket. These tickets have limited availability and require an additional fee.
At the end of the visit, we will take the bus back down to Machu Picchu Pueblo, where you will have free time to enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants. Lunch on this day is not included.
If the return schedule allows, you may optionally visit the hot springs in Machu Picchu Pueblo. This activity is not included, and the entrance fee should be confirmed on the date of travel.
The return train journey is scheduled for approximately 2:55 p.m.; however, the exact time will depend on the train service confirmed in your reservation.
Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, our transportation will be waiting to continue the journey to Cusco. The transfer will end at your hotel.
Arrival in Cusco is expected at approximately 6:30 p.m., although this time may vary depending on the confirmed train service and traffic conditions.
End of services.
What’s Included?
Included
- Hotel pickup in Cusco.
- Private transportation for the scheduled route through Chinchero, the Maras Salt Mines, Moray, Misminay, and Ollantaytambo.
- Tour guide service during the visits listed in the itinerary.
- Entrance tickets to Chinchero, Moray, the Maras Salt Mines, and Ollantaytambo, according to the booked program.
- Community-based tourism experience in Misminay.
- Cultural and community activities organized by the families of Misminay. Traditional textile activity.
- Agricultural activities available according to the season.
- Lunch and dinner on Day 1.
- Breakfast and lunch on Day 2. 1-night accommodation in a family home in Misminay.
- Round-trip train tickets between Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu Pueblo, according to the confirmed train service.
- 1-night accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Machu Picchu Pueblo.
- Round-trip bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket according to the circuit and route confirmed at the time of booking.
- Professional guide for the Machu Picchu visit.
- Private return transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
- Transfer to your hotel in Cusco.
Not Included
- Lunch on Day 3.
- Beverages, snacks, and meals not specifically listed as included.
- Optional hike to Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu Mountain: USD 75 per person, subject to availability.
- Entrance to the hot springs in Machu Picchu Pueblo.
- Personal expenses.
- Optional tips.
- Additional services not mentioned in the “Included” section.
Recommendations
- Bring the original identification document used to book Machu Picchu.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Bring comfortable, warm clothing to accommodate changes in temperature.
- Bring a waterproof jacket or rain poncho during the rainy season.
- Carry a reusable water bottle or canteen.
- Use sunscreen, a hat or cap, and sunglasses.
- Bring insect repellent.
- Bring personal medications and toiletries.
- Use a small, lightweight backpack.
- Bring cash in Peruvian soles and small-denomination bills for personal expenses.
- Bring a swimsuit if you plan to visit the hot springs in Machu Picchu Pueblo.
- Follow the entrance time, circuit, and route indicated on your Machu Picchu ticket.
ESSENTIAL ITEMS:
- Original Passport
- VALID STUDENT ID CARD (if booked as a student)
- Immigration card (delivered on the airport upon entering Peru)
- Good quality backpack (medium sized)
- Water storage bottle or canteen: Camelbak bottles are recommended, but all need to be sufficient to hold 1-2 litres
- Comfortable shoes, preferably light with good soles (waterproof goretex for rainy seasons)
FOR YOUR BAGGAGE:
The train has a luggage limit of 7-8 kilograms per person. We therefore recommend bringing only important and necessary items to Aguas Calientes.
- 2-3 long sleeve shirts
- 2 trousers
- 3 sets of underwear
- 3 sets of socks
- 1 Fleece
- 1 Raincoat and pants (for rainy seasons)
- 1 Sun hat
- Sandals – In case you want to visit the hot springs in Machu Picchu town
- Small quick-drying towel
- Portable battery charger for your phone and cameras
TOILETRIES:
- Sunscreen
- Facial moisturiser
- Insect repellent
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Toilet paper
- Personal medication
- First aid kit: band-aids, moleskin, etc.
ITEMS TO TAKE INSIDE MACHU PICCHU:
We recommend taking a backpack into the citadel, however please be aware that bags of more than 25 liters will not be allowed. Larger backpacks will need be stored outside the gates of the citadel.
- Water bottle/canteen
- Sun hat
- Rain clothes
- Camera or phone camera
- Hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper & small plastic bag for waste
- Extra cash for souvenirs, drinks, and tips
Additional Information
VISTADOME TRAIN FIRST CLASS OR INCA RAIL 360º TRAIN : For an additional payment of $40 USD per person, you can upgrade your tour package to the Vistadome class train or the Inca Rail 360º train for the return journey from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. The upgrade is subject to the availability of trains on the dates you wish to travel.
VISTADOME TRAIN
EXPEDITION TRAIN
HOTEL CATEGORY 4****: For an additional payment of $30 USD per person, you can upgrade your hotel stay in Aguas Calientes and the hotels can be one of the following options.
* Hotel Tierra Viva Machu Picchu.
* Hotel Taypikala Machu Picchu.
PRIVATE SINGLE ROOM:
* Hotel 3***: For an extra payment of $40 USD, you can get 01 private single room in category hotels 3***.
* Hotel 4****: For an extra payment of $60 USD, you can get 01 private single room in category hotels 4****.
DISCOUNTS:
* Peruvian Tourists with their valid DNI, Tourists with a passport from the Andean Community (Colombia, Ecuador and Bolivia), get a discount. «Does not apply to the Inca Trail tour»
* Foreign tourists with a student card, under 25 years old, current expiration date of the same year, get a discount.
For more information write to us by email: machupicchuviajesperu@gmail.com or to WhatsApp +51 995050803
- Extra tickets will need to be purchased to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain
- There are limited number of spaces available per day, so we recommend requesting booking the tickets in advance
- Once the mountain tickets are sold out for that day, there are no options available for extra tickets
- The cost to climb the Huaynapicchu or Machu Picchu mountain is $ 75 USD per person. This will be added to the total cost
- Those hiking Inca Trail that wish to do Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain, will also be charged an extra $ 75 USD
- IMPORTANT: Before requesting tickets to the Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain, check availability by contacting us!
- The hotel reservation is subject to space availability.
- The cost of the tour packages is based on a double or matrimonial room. For an individual room, an additional payment must be made.
- We can also organize a travel itinerary according to your requirements and the places you want to visit. These can be with category 3, * 4 *, and 5 * hotels.
- For more queries and information write to us by email:​machupicchuviajesperu@gmail.com
WHY CHOOSE MACHU PICCHU VIAJES PERU?
- We are a local tour operator based in Cusco with 15 years of experience as a Tour operator 100% Cusquenian Company.
- We have all the Authorizations and licensed by the Peruvian government as proof that we are an official tour operator.
- We have the Best Tour guides (Fluent in English and Spanish): We are so proud of our guides! They are highly professional, licensed and degrees by the Peruvian government and speak fluent English and Spanish. They are very knowledgeable and passionate about Incan heritage and history. Our guides are dedicated to continuous personal and professional development. They do research to ensure that you receive accurately and recognized theories in Incan and Andean cultures.
- Small groups & Personalized and High-quality service (Customized Private Tour), This fact alone sets us apart from other companies that operate departures with bigger groups.
- No hidden prices or Surprises/ We Never Pass you onto another operator as most travel agencies do here. We will depart even if you are a group of 02 persons (Departure of tours is 100% guaranteed).
- We never share services with other companies as most travel agencies do here to Minimize cost
- We are a Sustainable and eco-friendly tour company, Machu Picchu Viajes Peru has always believed that we should “give back” to the communities we pass through on our treks. Therefore, as part of our commitment to responsible tourism, we socially support and employ these communities.
- We are committed to social projects and improving living conditions for the children of Peru.
- Our dream as a locally based company is to create small personalized tours & treks strictly and only operated by local professional staff catering to Personalized and High-quality service.
- We treat our team of porters the best with a HOUSE for them to sleep in and proper equipment, wages, and health insurance for everyone
- Master Chefs The best in the Cusco region
- The food provided on our treks is the best( buffet Style and plenty of food)
- The best Camping Equipment for the Inca Trail and alternative treks (spacious tents 4 season aluminum poles tents, Eating & Cooking tents, Portable table & chairs, comfortable mattresses, and more…)
- Our tourist transports are exclusively for our services, which are completely reliable, comfortable, safe and with all the necessary authorizations.
“Machu Picchu Viajes Perú” We know how important it is to trust a trustworthy honest operator to create the adventure of a lifetime while in Peru. Take a look at our reviews and certificates of excellence in Tripadvisor
Where does the tour start and end?
- All ours tours begins with the pick up to the tourists at the door of their hotels “We pick up to our clients from any hotel located in the city of Cusco”, We recommend to stay close to the historical center of the city of Cusco, it will make it easier to find your hotel.
- All our tours ends at the door of the hotels, it means the tours will finish with transfer to your respective hotel located in Cusco.
How to prevent altitude sickness?
- The altitude sickness or soroche can cause you some discomfort during your visit such as dizziness, fatigue or nausea. Try to avoid alcoholic beverages and fatty foods before the visit.
- To reduce symptoms, try to acclimatize yourself one day before to the altitude of the city of Cusco. We recommend to drink infusions of coca leaf (natural plant used by the Incas) is an excellent option to avoid the actitude sickness.
How is the accommodation?
- For all the tours which include hotels. We offer hotels of 3* and 4* category, it has spacious and comfortable rooms, bathrooms, hot showers and bueffet breakfast. If the tourist like, you can change the accommodation to a better service. You just have to request it via email for an additional cost.
Which season is the best time to visit Cusco and Machu Picchu?
- The dry season months between April to December are the best time to come and visit Cusco. During those days the possibility of rain is very little, so the roads are not swampy and the landscapes can be better to enjoy and takes the best pictures. On the other hand, the months with the most rain are January, February and March.
What are the coldest months in Cusco Peru?
- The coldest season in Cusco are in the months from May to July. During this time the sun is strong in the day, but once it goes down or you spend much time in the shade, it can get very cold. It can go below zero at night, so warm clothes and Jackets are necessary to bring during these months.
How long in advance can I request the tour?
- We recommend to purchase the tours weeks or months in advance, this because the train and Machu Picchu tickets has a limit of spaces, dont wait until the lust minute to book your tour, other ways you will not be able to find spaces.
During the trip to Machu Picchu, where the big luggages will stay?
The train company that operates to Machu Picchu does not allow the traveler to carry a suitcase that weighs more than 7 kilograms. To go up and visit the city of Machu Picchu, it is recommended to carry a light and small backpack for your convenience; the rest of the luggages you can leave them without any problem at the storage of your hotel in Cusco, or you can also leave at our office in Cusco city, we have an storage too.
Very Important in case you want to book the Inca trail to Machu Picchu:
- CLASSIC INCA TRAIL 4 DAYS: If you want to book the Classic Inca Trail 4 days, you must to book early to get your desired date. Depending on the month you prefer to do the hike, you may need to book 6 months or more in advance, the limit of spaces for the inca trail 4 days is 400 people per each day.
- SHORT INCA TRAIL: If you are booking the 1 or 2 day Inca Trail, it is preferred that you also book in advance, however 2 to 4 month in advance would be good, the limit of spaces for the short inca trail is 200 people per each day.
When is the best season to hike the Inca Trail?
- The best time of year to do the inca trail is between May to October, with August and September being the best months of all. The trail is dry and the weather is lovely. During the rainy season between November to April the trail will be wet and can make it more difficult.
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Over 10,000 travelers servedMore than a trip, we create authentic experiences in Peru
We specialize in designing personalized trips to Machu Picchu and the main destinations in Peru, combining impeccable organization, personalized attention, and deep local knowledge.
Proven Experience
Years of experience operating routes such as the Inca Trail, Salkantay, and cultural tours, with packages throughout Peru.
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Certified guides and trained staff who guarantee quality service and professional support.
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Company registered and authorized by official tourism entities in Peru.
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We work with local providers promoting sustainable development and responsible tourism.
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Machu Picchu Viajes Peru is a company fully authorized by the Peruvian government, certifying us as a legally established company with multiple excellence certificates.
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