How to Plan Your 2.5hr Guided Tour of Machu Picchu with a Top Rated Private Guide

Are you planning a trip to Sacred Valley and eager to see its crowning jewel, Machu Picchu? Perhaps you are even more excited to have your own private guide take you on a tour of the iconic landmarks within the UNESCO World Heritage site, all while answering whatever questions come to mind. If this sounds like you, then you’ll want to get started on planning your 2.5hr guided tour with a top-rated private guide. Here’s everything you need to know for a successful and satisfying experience.

Booking Your Tour

Before arriving at Machu Picchu, you’ll want to secure your tour with a private guide. Viator is a third-party travel agency that offers an excellent 2.5hr guided tour of Machu Picchu, complete with a professional, licensed and bilingual (fluent in English and Spanish) Machu Picchu guide. To book your tour, simply visit Viator’s website and navigate to the tour page using the following link: book the tour here . Once there, select your preferred tour date, the number of travellers, and fill out the necessary details for booking.

Preparing for the Tour

As you prepare for your tour, keep in mind that it takes place in the Andes Mountains, which can be quite chilly depending on the season. It’s a good idea to dress in layers and bring along adequate protection, like hats and sunglasses, against the sun’s rays at higher altitudes. It’s best to arrive in Aguas Calientes the day before your tour, particularly if you are travelling from Cusco, to provide enough time to adjust to the altitude. You’ll meet your private guide on the evening before the scheduled tour to discuss and plan accordingly.

What’s Included in the Tour?

Your private guide will be with you for the duration of the tour and will explain the historical significance of each landmark, including unique features such as the temple of the sun and sundial, agricultural terraces, and the Temple of the Condor. You’ll also learn more about the Incas and their way of life. Before your tour, your guide will share helpful tips to get the most out of your experience, such as the best locations to view and photograph Machu Picchu, and how to avoid any crowds.

Features of the Tour

Your 2.5 hour guided tour is designed to provide you with an enjoyable and comprehensive experience of Machu Picchu. Here are some highlights: – Private guided tour: You’ll have your own personal guide to take you through Machu Picchu and give you their undivided attention. – Professional and licensed Machu Picchu guide: Your guide is a certified professional, meaning you’ll have accurate and informative commentary about the landmarks within the site. – Bilingual guide: Your guide is fluent in both English and Spanish, making communication easier. – Meet your guide the night before your tour: Discuss your preferences, get recommendations and ask any questions you may have.

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for the tour is in Aguas Calientes, and the actual meeting point at Machu Picchu entrance with your private guide will be arranged for the day of the tour.

Book Your Tour Now

Booking a 2.5hr guided tour of Machu Picchu in the company of a private guide will provide you with a memorable and knowledgeable experience of one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. Remember to plan your visit ahead of time, including what to wear, and arrive early to give yourself sufficient time to adjust to the altitude. With a top-rated private guide, your Machu Picchu exploration is sure to be unforgettable.

FAQ About Sacred Valley

1. What is Sacred Valley?

Sacred Valley is a valley located in the Andean mountains of Peru, close to Cusco. It was an important center of Inca civilization and is known for its ancient ruins, picturesque villages, and stunning natural beauty.

2. How do I get to Sacred Valley?

The easiest way to get to Sacred Valley is to fly to Cusco, the closest airport. From there, you can take a taxi, bus, or private car to the valley. Alternatively, you can take a scenic train ride from Cusco to Machu Picchu, which passes through Sacred Valley.

3. What are the top attractions in Sacred Valley?

Some of the top attractions in Sacred Valley include:

• Machu Picchu, the ancient Inca citadel and one of the Seven Wonders of the World
• Ollantaytambo, an Inca fortress and village with well-preserved ruins
• Pisac, a village famous for its large market and Inca ruins
• Maras Salt Mines, a picturesque site where locals still harvest salt as they did in Inca times
• Moray, a series of terraced circular depressions that were used by the Incas for agriculture experiments

4. What is the weather like in Sacred Valley?

The weather in Sacred Valley is mild and temperate, with a dry season from May to October and a rainy season from November to April. The best time to visit is usually from May to September when the weather is dry and sunny.

5. What are the best outdoor activities to do in Sacred Valley?

Sacred Valley is a great place for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Some popular trails include the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and the Salkantay trek. Additionally, the area is great for birdwatching, kayaking, and river rafting.

6. What should I wear when visiting Sacred Valley?

It is recommended to wear comfortable, breathable clothing and sturdy footwear when visiting Sacred Valley. Additionally, it is important to dress in layers as the weather can change quickly. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are also recommended.

7. What is the food like in Sacred Valley?

Sacred Valley has a rich culinary history and is known for its delicious traditional dishes such as roasted cuy (guinea pig), chicha (a fermented corn drink), and stews made with local Andean ingredients. Additionally, there are many international restaurants in the area that offer a variety of cuisines.

8. What is the culture like in Sacred Valley?

The people of Sacred Valley are a mix of indigenous Andean people and Spanish settlers, and their culture reflects this blending of traditions. The area is known for its vibrant festivals, colorful textiles, and intricate handicrafts.

9. Are there any accommodations in Sacred Valley?

Yes, there are many accommodations in Sacred Valley ranging from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Some popular options include the Tambo del Inka Resort & Spa, El Albergue Ollantaytambo, and Hostal Iskay.

10. Is Sacred Valley safe for tourists?

Sacred Valley is generally a safe place for tourists, but it is still important to take precautions such as avoiding walking alone at night and keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded areas. Additionally, it is recommended to drink only bottled water to avoid getting sick from tap water.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Sacred Valley

Sacred Valley in Peru is a unique and fascinating tourist destination that attracts thousands of visitors each year. From the awe-inspiring natural scenery to the rich cultural heritage, Sacred Valley is a place that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Sacred Valley.

1. Explore the Ancient Ruins

Sacred Valley is home to several ancient ruins that offer a glimpse into the history and culture of the Incas. The most famous among them is Machu Picchu, a world-famous UNESCO World Heritage Site that is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Visitors can take a train from Cusco to Machu Picchu, hike the Inca Trail, or opt for a guided tour. Other must-see ruins in Sacred Valley include Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero. These sites offer visitors an opportunity to explore ancient temples, fortresses, and terraced fields. They are also great spots for photography enthusiasts.

2. Experience the Local Culture

Sacred Valley is home to several indigenous communities that have preserved their traditions and way of life for centuries. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by participating in cultural events, visiting local markets, and trying local cuisine. One of the best ways to experience the local culture is by visiting the town of Pisac on market day. Here, visitors can browse through stalls selling colorful textiles, handicrafts, and jewelry made by local artisans. Visitors can also try traditional Peruvian dishes such as ceviche and lomo saltado at one of the town’s many restaurants.

3. Enjoy Outdoor Activities

Sacred Valley is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The region is blessed with breathtaking natural beauty, including snow-capped mountains, emerald-green valleys, and crystal-clear river streams. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and river rafting. The Urubamba River, which runs through the valley, offers some of the best whitewater rafting experiences in Peru. Visitors can also go on a hot air balloon ride to take in the sweeping views of the valley from above.

4. Relax and Rejuvenate

Sacred Valley is also a great destination for those who want to relax and rejuvenate. The region is home to several natural hot springs, which are said to have healing properties. One of the best places to experience the hot springs is the town of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Here, visitors can soak in the warm waters while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

5. Learn about Traditional Agriculture

Sacred Valley is famous for its terraced fields that have been used for farming for thousands of years. Visitors can learn about traditional agriculture practices by visiting local farms and participating in hands-on activities such as planting and harvesting crops. The town of Moray is known for its circular terraces, which were used by the Incas to experiment with different crops at varying altitudes. Visitors can visit the Moray ruins and see the terraces up close.

Book Your Tour Now

Sacred Valley is a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor activities, or just want to relax and unwind, there are plenty of things to do in this beautiful region of Peru. Follow this step-by-step guide to make the most of your time as a tourist in Sacred Valley.