Even though most people know that Machu Picchu is, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, only those who have visited it get to understand the true magic of this ancient sanctuary and the nature that surrounds it. At Venturia, we will make all the necessary arrangements for you to enjoy the best, stress-free Machu Picchu experience.
Your adventure starts when we pick you up from your hotel, either in the Sacred Valley or in the city of Cusco. One of the advantages of staying at the Tambo del Inka in Urubamba is that it is very close to Ollantaytambo, where the train leaves to take you to Aguas Calientes (the journey is shorter than from Cusco city). There is no need to worry about train tickets, we will have everything handled for you. Although it is a long journey, you will be perplexed by the spectacular natural scenery along the way. Don’t forget to bring your camera!
Once in Aguas Calientes, our private English-speaking guide will meet with you before you board the bus that takes you to Machu Picchu. Bus tickets will be included in the package, so once you arrive you will be ready to board. Besides contemplating the architecture and landscapes, you will be doing light to moderate hiking during the tour, so remember to wear comfortable apparel and hiking shoes.
The guided tour will take about two hours, after which you will be able to explore the Machu Picchu Inca Citadel on your own. You can wander around the various temples, prayer houses or Andean terraces, and you will be delighted to see llamas roaming freely among the land.
Among the main highlights are the Intihuatana, a rock with a unique structure used by the Incas to predict solstices, the Temple of the Sun, (which is the structure that shows the most intricate stonework in the place) and the temple of the princess or The Sacred Tomb, whose outer wall has been described by Hiram Bingham as the finest in America. If you desire a more complex experience, you may visit the Intipunku, a ruin from which you can have a panoramic view of the citadel. However, do have in mind that going there requires moderate to intense hiking.
After visiting the ruins, you will board the bus back to Aguas Calientes. Once there, we will take you for lunch at the Inkaterra Restaurant where you will be able to choose between an à la carte menu or a buffet. Do let us know which one you prefer! After that, we will help you board your train back to the hotel. Everything will be prepared for you to relax and enjoy a mystic experience at this architectural Inca treasure, as well as to return safely and comfortably.