Indagare's John Cantrell
“If ticking Machu Picchu off my bucket list, and finding that it did not disappoint, was sweet, it also reminded me that sometimes traveling even the beaten path will have its own unexpected rewards.”
Machu Picchu may be Peru’s greatest draw, but a visit to the Sacred Valley, which surrounds Machu Picchu and Cusco, is also essential to understand the land that inspired awe in the Incas and the conquistadores.
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Perfect forAdventurers | Families | Trailblazers | Soul Searchers
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When to goYear-Round
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Ideal length of stay3-5 Nights
Designing Your Journey
Work with Indagare to design the perfect itinerary for an immersive journey. Our travel experts know the destination inside and out, and they can make recommendations based on your travel needs and preferences.
3 Days: Essential Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley is the perfect destination for those who enjoy the great outdoors and adventurous activities. Those interested in cultural immersion will also find a variety of attractions, from authentic Andean markets to well-preserved colonial churches. Here is just one example of what our destination experts can create for you.
Day 1
Arrive in Cusco and begin your journey to Machu Picchu by descending immediately to the Sacred Valley. Here you will adjust to the altitude in the ancient land of the Incas. Spend your first day exploring the region’s mountain vistas and picturesque villages, and embark on a guided tour of the main Incan sites of Pisac, Moray and Ollantaytambo as a warm up to viewing the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu. Indagare can also arrange activities including hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, ATVing or kayaking on the mighty Urubamba River, or visits to artisan villages.
Day 2
Rise early and either take the train all the way to Aguas Calientes or disembark early and hike the end of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, arriving at the Sun Gate in the late afternoon (this option must be booked several months in advance). Explore the citadel with one of our specialist guides, and stay after the crowds have left to watch the sun set behind the mountains.
Day 3
Wake up at dawn to take sunrise photos of Machu Picchu, and climb Wayna Picchu (suitable for moderate to advanced hikers) for even more spectacular views of Machu Picchu and the Andes. Have lunch and continue hiking before meeting the famous Hiram Bingham train and riding back to Cusco.
Where To Stay
We only feature hotels that we can vouch for first-hand. At many of them, Indagare members receive special amenities, including upgrades, early check-in, breakfast, spa credits and more. Look for the Indagare Plus logo in the reviews.
Belmond Sanctuary LodgeRead MoreBelmond Sanctuary Lodge
Built as a dormitory for archaeologists working on Machu Picchu, the Sanctuary Lodge has been spiffed up a bit to welcome guests who want to stay at the gates of the famous ruins, but rooms remain quite utilitarian.
Read MoreInkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
This hotel sits at the base of the mountain upon which Machu Picchu is located, offering a comfortable retreat after a day of exploring the ruins.
Courtesy ExploraRead MoreExplora Valle Sagrado
Like its sister properties in Chile, the first Peruvian Explora, too, chose an enviable location for its setting. Here, room rates include all meals and excursions, which take full advantage of the region’s varied landscape.
Read MoreInkaterra Hacienda Urubamba
Located on the side of the Urubamba River, this spectacular escape provides visitors with cozy cottages and warm common spaces for relaxing after sightseeing in the Sacred Valley.
Photo by Diana Li, courtesy IndagareRead MoreSol y Luna
Nestled in the Sacred Valley, this dreamy family-owned compound merges the European background of the owner and a love for Peruvian ranch life, textiles, cuisines and community.
Check availability at Indagare-recommended hotels.
