Mystical Cusco: Moon Temple to Machu Picchu (6 Days)
Unveiling the Mysteries of the Sacred Valley on a Journey Beyond the Ordinary
- always available
- 6 days
- private
- Cusco & Sacred Valley
Overview
Experience the breathtaking Sacred Valley in a truly unforgettable way by exploring its most vibrant and meaningful places. Slow down, disconnect from the noise, and reconnect with nature’s rhythm. This special itinerary blends hidden gems with iconic highlights, offering a deeper understanding of Andean culture and spirituality.
Immerse yourself in the wisdom of Andean cosmology, take part in a powerful Cleansing Ceremony with our Andean shaman, enjoy a horseback adventure through stunning valley landscapes, meditate in nature, and visit remarkable ancient Inca sites – culminating with the legendary Machu Picchu.
Itinerary
Upon arrival at Cusco Airport, we will take you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to relax, acclimatize to the altitude, and settle in comfortably. No activities are planned for today.
After breakfast, we will pick you up and drive to the Moon Temple. Upon arrival, we will enjoy a gentle walk around the temples in the area, taking in the beautiful landscapes and panoramic views. Near these sacred sites, we will take time to connect with our ancestors, Mother Earth (Pachamama), and the Sacred Mountains (Apus) through a short meditation and by setting our intentions for the journey ahead.
Depending on your energy levels and the weather conditions, we may continue with additional walking in the area. Afterwards, we will return to the city (or your hotel) by private transportation.
Today, after breakfast, we’ll begin our journey into the Sacred Valley of the Incas. We’ll explore some of the valley’s hidden treasures, traveling by private transport to the charming local community of Soqma. From there, we’ll embark on a scenic 45-minute horseback ride through lush landscapes until we reach the breathtaking Perolniyoq Waterfall. Nestled amid vibrant vegetation, this waterfall is a hidden jewel of nature, often discovered with only a few fellow travelers around. Here, we’ll participate in a Water Cleansing Ceremony led by our Andean Shaman.
If time and energy allow, we can continue on a 45-minute trek to the archaeological site of Raqaypata, a sacred location offering panoramic mountain views. After soaking in this serene setting, we’ll return along the same route and enjoy a delicious local lunch back in Soqma.
Our journey will continue with private transport to Ñaupa Iglesia, where we’ll share a mindful meditation session guided by our shaman. Finally, we’ll arrive in Ollantaytambo, where you’ll spend the night in a beautiful hotel, resting and reflecting on a day immersed in nature, culture, and sacred traditions.
After a hearty breakfast, we will visit the archaeological site of Ollantaytambo with our local guide. This remarkable Inca complex was built to protect the valley from invasions coming from the rainforest.
Next, we will take the train to Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Town. Upon arrival, you will have time to check in at your hotel and rest. You can explore the local restaurants for lunch. If you feel like it and the weather allows, our guide can take you to a sacred waterfall just a 25-minute walk from the town center. This activity is optional, so you can choose whether to visit the waterfall or simply enjoy a relaxing stroll around the village.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Aguas Calientes.
After our breakfast at the hotel, we will take a 30-minute bus drive up to the archeological site of Machu Picchu. We will enter the sacred Inca citadel and enjoy a 2-hour tour together with our professional guide, who will explain to us everything about the fascinating facts of these ruins and its energetic importance for the Inca civilization. We will have enough time to connect with this sacred site, feeling the incredible energy of this unique place.
We will take our bus back to the village and have enough time for lunch. Later, we take our train back to Ollantaytambo/Poroy, where our transfer staff will pick us up and bring us back to our hotel in Cusco.
After breakfast, we will bring you to the airport, where you take your national flight.
2 people
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based on a group of 2.
3 people
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based on a group of 3.
4-6 people
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based on a group of 4-6
Enquire More Details:
Inclusions & Additional Information
Please keep in mind that our prices are quoted for private tours; you will have a private guide, transportation, and itineraries as mentioned.
- Private Transportation: As specified in the itinerary, including airport pick-up and drop-off in Cusco.
- Professional Guide: Fluent in English, Quechua, and Spanish, accompanying you during the mentioned activities.
- Accommodation: Overnight stay at 3-stars-hotel in Cusco, Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes.
- Andean Shaman: A genuine Andean shaman from Q’eros, performing Andean ceremonies.
- Meals: Breakfast at the hotel on days 2-6, and a local lunch in Soqma on day 3.
- Entrance Tickets: Included for Ollantaytambo ruins, waterfalls in Aguas Calientes, and the Machu Picchu site.
- Train Ride: For the Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo/Poroy route.
- Shuttle Bus: Provided between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
- Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain: Entrance is not included. Notify us in advance to check availability. You can book either for an additional fee of 60 USD.
- Meals: Dinners and lunches (except on day 3 local lunch is included). We encourage you to explore local restaurants on your own, and feel free to contact us for top-secret recommendations.
- Tips: Not included for the staff.
- Additional Activities: Any activities not mentioned in the itinerary or marked as optional.
- Travel Insurance: Participants are responsible for arranging their own travel insurance.
- Flights: Airfare is not included in the package.
If you ever need to cancel or want to know about refunds, you can find all the details in our Terms and Conditions. If you’re not sure about something or have any questions, just get in touch with us.
We’re here to help and make things clear for you. Your happiness is really important to us!
FAQ about this Itinerary
For this travel program, consider packing the following items:
Comfortable Clothing: Dress in layers for varying temperatures, including a light jacket or sweater.
Sturdy Walking Shoes: Comfortable footwear for walks and explorations.
Rain Jacket or Poncho: In case of unexpected rain.
Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.
Daypack: A small backpack for daily excursions.
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated during your activities.
Personal Medications: Any necessary medications or personal health items.
Camera or Smartphone: Capture memories of your journey.
Travel Adapters: If you’re bringing electronic devices, ensure you have the right adapters.
Travel Documents: Passport, travel insurance, and any required tickets (Bring your actual passport for your visit to Machu Picchu!).
Snacks: Carry some snacks for energy during activities.
Comfort Items: Consider bringing items like a neck pillow or other comfort items for longer journeys.
To visit Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, please inform us in advance. There is an additional cost of $60 USD for this option. It’s important to let us know ahead of time because the entrance tickets are limited and tend to sell out quickly. This way, we can ensure availability and make the necessary arrangements for your memorable experience.
When planning your visit to Machu Picchu, please keep these details in mind:
- Tickets: It’s important to book your tours and entry tickets in advance due to limited availability.
- Identification: Ensure you bring your original passport that matches the name on your ticket.
- Baggage: Only small bags are allowed within the site; larger bags must be stored outside.
- Food: Remember that bringing outside food is not allowed; you’ll find dining options in Aguas Calientes.
- Photography: Personal photography is permitted, but please note that drones are not allowed.
- Respect: Help preserve this historic site by adhering to guidelines, keeping the area clean, and showing respect for its cultural significance.
The best time to visit the Cusco region is generally during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During these months, you can expect clear skies and minimal rainfall, providing favorable conditions for exploring the attractions and enjoying outdoor activities.
However, keep in mind that this is also the peak tourist season, so popular sites like Machu Picchu may be more crowded. If you prefer fewer crowds, you might consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of April or October.
The rainy season, from November to March, brings lush landscapes but also more unpredictable weather and heavier rainfall. Some travelers still choose this time for its unique beauty, but be prepared for wetter conditions.
Ultimately, the best time to visit depends on your preferences regarding weather, crowds, and the specific experiences you seek in the Cusco region.
Cusco is situated at a high altitude of approximately 3,400 meters (11,150 feet) above sea level. The high altitude can lead to altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), especially for those who are not acclimatized to such elevations. To prevent altitude sickness and make your visit more comfortable, consider the following tips:
Acclimatize Gradually:
- Spend a day or two in Cusco before engaging in strenuous activities. Allow your body time to adjust to the altitude.
Stay Hydrated:
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, but avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine consumption.
Avoid Strenuous Activity Initially:
- Rest and avoid strenuous physical activity for the first day or two to allow your body to acclimate.
Eat Lightly:
- Consume light, easily digestible meals, and avoid heavy or rich foods.
Coca Tea:
- Coca tea is a traditional remedy in the region. Many hotels offer it, and it’s believed to help with altitude sickness.
Medication:
- Consult with a healthcare professional about medication options for preventing or alleviating altitude sickness.
Protect Against Sunburn:
- The higher altitude means stronger sunlight. Use sunscreen, wear a hat, and use sunglasses to protect yourself from sunburn.
Listen to Your Body:
- Pay attention to any symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, dizziness, or nausea. If you experience severe symptoms, seek medical attention.
Remember that everyone reacts differently to high altitudes, and it’s important to prioritize your well-being. If you have any pre-existing health conditions or concerns, consult with a healthcare professional before traveling to high-altitude destinations like Cusco.
Yes, you will. We exclusively collaborate with authentic Andean shamans from the Q’eros Nation. These wise individuals are fluent in Quechua, and some also speak Spanish. Known for their humility, our shamans provide genuine insights into Andean cosmovision. As part of our commitment, Nature Trips Peru aims to initiate a social project to support the families of our Q’eros shamans. Our goal is to provide educational opportunities for both the shamans and their children, ensuring the preservation of cultural heritage for future generations.
