Sacred Valley of the Incas and Machu Picchu

The Sacred Valley of the Incas and Machu Picchu are two of the most emblematic tourist destinations in Peru, where history, culture and natural beauty combine to offer a unique and unforgettable experience.

Sacred Valley of the Incas

The Sacred Valley of the Incas is a region in the Peruvian Andes located about 15 km north of the city of Cusco. This area is famous for its breathtaking scenery, well-preserved Inca ruins, traditional Andean villages and handicraft markets. Some of the highlights of the Sacred Valley include the ruins of Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero and Moray.

Machu Picchu, on the other hand, is an ancient Inca citadel located on a mountain in the Urubamba River Valley in the Peruvian Andes. It is considered one of the seven wonders of the modern world and is a popular tourist destination. To get to Machu Picchu, tourists usually take a train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, the nearest town, and then go up by bus or hike a steep trail to the top of the mountain where the citadel is located.

There are several ways to combine the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu in one tour. Many tours include visits to the Sacred Valley sites before reaching Machu Picchu, and some even offer hikes along the Inca Trail or other trails to the citadel. There are also tours that focus exclusively on Machu Picchu, with options to visit the ruins in the morning or afternoon, and with the option to climb to the top of Huayna Picchu mountain for panoramic views of the citadel and surrounding valley.

Questions and answers about the Sacred Valley of the Incas and Machu Picchu

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Sacred Valley of the Incas and Machu Picchu:

What is the best time to visit the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu?

The best time to visit is from May to October, as it is the dry and sunny season. However, it is also the high season, so there may be more tourists and higher prices. November to April is rainy season, which can affect some of the trails and activities.

How do I get to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu?

The Sacred Valley can be reached by private or public transportation from Cusco or from Ollantaytambo. To get to Machu Picchu, you must first take a train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and then go up by bus or walk to the entrance of the archaeological park.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?

Yes, it is recommended to buy tickets in advance for both sites, especially for Machu Picchu. Tickets tend to sell out quickly, especially in high season. You can buy tickets online or through a travel agency.

How much time do I need to visit the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu?

It is recommended to dedicate at least one full day to visit the Sacred Valley and another full day to visit Machu Picchu. However, you can also take longer excursions and visit other places in the area, such as Maras, Moray, Chinchero, among others.

Do I need a guide to visit Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley?

It is not mandatory to hire a guide, but it is recommended to have a more enriching experience and learn more about the history and culture of the places. It is also mandatory to visit certain restricted areas in Machu Picchu.

What should I bring to visit the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu?

It is recommended to bring comfortable and light clothing, walking shoes, hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, water, camera and cash. It is also advisable to bring a light coat for the night and in case of rain.

What other activities can I do in the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu?

In addition to visiting the ruins and archaeological sites, you can also do activities such as hiking, rafting, mountain biking, visiting local communities, among other options offered by local tourism agencies.