This day is packed with impressive sites and fascinating insights into the Inca culture.

The day begins with departure from Cusco, heading to the picturesque traditional village of Pisac. In Pisac, we will explore the famous archaeological site, known for its impressive terraces carved into the mountain.

Afterwards, we will have the opportunity to visit the traditional Pisac market, bustling with activity and offering the chance to interact with local artisans and perhaps purchase some handmade souvenirs.

We will continue our tour by visiting the town of Ollantaytambo, an ancient Inca city that boasts some of the best-preserved Inca architecture in Peru. Here, we will ascend the terraces and marvel at the grandeur of the ruins, while learning about the strategic importance of this site in Inca times. Ollantaytambo’s unique design and the surrounding mountainous landscape make this stop a truly captivating experience.

In the afternoon, we will board a train to Aguas Calientes, the town located at the foot of Machu Picchu. The train ride will provide picturesque views of the Andean landscape as we follow the course of the Urubamba River. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, we will check into our hotel and rest before visiting Machu Picchu the next day.

This first day of the Machu Picchu Sacred Valley tour offers not only a journey through breathtaking scenery, but also a deep dive into the history and culture of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu region.

Highlights of the first day of the Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley Tour:

– Distance traveled: Approximately 95 kilometers (59 miles) from Cusco to Aguas Calientes.
– Highest altitude: About 2,972 meters (9,751 feet) at Pisac.
– Lowest altitude: Aguas Calientes at about 2,040 meters (6,692 feet).
– Difficulty level: Easy to moderate, with some hiking and light exploration of archaeological sites.