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Sacred Valley Tour—8 days of Adventure

Duration: 8 Days
From: $1,500 per person
Destinations: Cusco - Machu Picchu - Rainbow Mountain - Humantay Lagoon

Description

Sacred Valley Tour: Discover the Heart of the Inca Civilization in Peru

Experience 8 unforgettable days in Cusco and the Sacred Valley with our Sacred Valley Tour. Explore Inca sites such as Machu Picchu, Sacsayhuaman, and Ollantaytambo; hike the colorful Rainbow Mountain; visit the turquoise Humantay Lake; and discover local traditions in Maras, Moray, and the Inca Bridge.

Enjoy the Andean landscapes and the culture and traditions of Peru while relaxing in the charming streets of Cusco.

**If you love nature and culture, don’t miss our Galapagos Islands and Machu Picchu Tour—12 days of adventure and culture in a combo package.

Experience a unique adventure exploring the ancient treasures of the Inca Empire, such as Machu Picchu, and then immerse yourself in the unparalleled biodiversity of the Galapagos Islands. **

Inclusions

✔ Pickup at Cusco airport.
✔ Pickup at your hotel in Cusco.
✔ Tourist tickets for the city tour.
✔ Professional guide.
✔ Hotel in Cusco.
✔ Transportation.
✔ Breakfast and lunch according to the itinerary.
✔ Train ticket
✔ Hotel in Aguas Calientes
✔ Entrance fees to tourist attractions according to the itinerary.
✔ Transfer to the airport
❌ Meals not mentioned
❌ Food and drinks, unless specified
❌ Gratuities
❌ International flights

Highlights

  • This is an ideal tour for lovers of Inca history and culture who want to visit the most important archaeological sites in Cusco and the Sacred Valley.
  • Perfect for those seeking breathtaking natural landscapes, from the colorful Rainbow Mountain to the turquoise waters of Lake Humantay.
  • For adventurous travelers and trekking enthusiasts who enjoy moderate hikes in spectacular Andean surroundings, this is a perfect opportunity to connect with nature and history.
  • For those interested in local traditions and Andean villages, with visits to Maras, Moray, and nearby communities that maintain their ancestral customs and crafts.
  • Ideal for those who want to explore Machu Picchu fully, including an expert guide, free time for photos, and organized transportation.
  • Perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends who want to combine authentic experiences with safety and comfort.

Itinerary

    DAY 1. ARRIVAL IN CUSCO AND CITY TOUR

    Our staff will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel upon arrival in Cusco. You will have the morning to relax and acclimatize before beginning your trip.

    To begin your tour of Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca civilization, we will pick you up at your hotel in the afternoon.

    We will start with a visit to Koricancha, also known as the Temple of the Sun, which is the most significant Inca religious site and is dedicated to the Sun God. Its stone walls demonstrate the architectural mastery of the Inca civilization.

    Then we will travel to Sacsayhuaman, a marvel of Inca engineering and a representation of their power, built with enormous stone blocks.

    We head to Qenqo, a sacred ceremonial site known for its passageways and carved stone altars that were used for rituals to the gods.

    After a short drive, we arrive at Pucapucara, an ancient military post that was once used as a checkpoint and defensive site to guard the entrance to Cusco.

    Our last stop is Tambomachay, known for its water fountains that were used for ceremonial purposes in historical Peru.

    After the tour, we will return to Cusco, where you will have the afternoon to relax or explore the city.

    Activities:

    • Arrival in Cusco and transfer to the hotel.
    • Visit to Koricancha.
    • Tour of Sacsayhuamán.
    • Visit to Qenqo.
    • Transfer to Pucapucara.
    • Stop at Tambomachay.
    • Return to Cusco.

    DAY 2. SACRED VALLEY OF THE INCAS

    After breakfast, we set off to explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas, one of the most iconic areas of historical Peru, steeped in culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes.

    Pisac is our first stop, where we will visit the archaeological complex that reveals ancient ceremonial spaces and farming terraces.

    We then continue to Urubamba, where we will enjoy a delicious lunch.

    We will head to Ollantaytambo, where we will explore the majestic archaeological site with its enormous stone terraces and temples that once served as a military, religious, and agricultural center.

    After the visit, we will head to the train station to board the train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu, where we will spend the night in preparation for the highlight of our trip.

    **If you want to read more, the Sacred Valley of Cusco was awarded the Safe Travels Stamp, becoming the second destination in Peru to obtain this international distinction.**

    Activities:

    • Visit to the archaeological site of Pisac.
    • Tour of the archaeological site of Ollantaytambo.
    • Train trip to Aguas Calientes.
    • Overnight stay in Aguas Calientes.

    DAY 3. MACHU PICCHU

    Early in the morning, we will board the bus to the entrance of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a highlight of the culture and traditions of Peru.

    With our guide, we will visit the “Lost City of the Incas,” discovering its temples, terraces, plazas, and the incredible ingenuity of Inca architecture, all surrounded by breathtaking mountain landscapes.

    After the guided tour, you will have free time to take photographs and enjoy the magical atmosphere of this sanctuary, a true icon of historical Peru.

    Before taking the train back to Cusco, we will return to Aguas Calientes and have lunch at a local restaurant.

    Activities:

    • Early departure by bus to Machu Picchu.
    • Guided tour of the Lost City of the Incas.
    • Free time to explore and take photographs.
    • Return to Aguas Calientes for lunch.
    • Return by train to Cusco.

    DAY 4. MARAS-MORAY

    After breakfast, we will pick you up at your hotel to continue exploring the wonders surrounding Cusco.

    Our first stop is the town of Maras, famous for its beautiful view of the Sacred Valley and its traditional colonial architecture.

    Next, we will go to Moray, a fascinating archaeological site considered to be an ancient agricultural laboratory of the Inca civilization.

    Its circular terraces, built in concentric levels, created different microclimates that the Incas used to experiment with crops.

    Next, we will visit the famous Maras Salt Mines, a spectacular landscape of thousands of salt pools that have been in use since Inca times and are still active today. 

    Here you will also have time to purchase local salt products and handicrafts.

    In the afternoon, we will return to Cusco, where you can relax and enjoy the rest of the evening.

    Activities:

    • Breakfast at the hotel.
    • Transfer to the town of Maras.
    • Visit to Moray, an ancient Inca agricultural laboratory.
    • Tour of the Maras Salt Mines.
    • Time for shopping for local products.
    • Return to Cusco.

    DAY 5. RAINBOW MOUNTAIN

    We start very early, picking you up at your hotel around 4:00 a.m. to begin the adventure in historical Peru.

    Our first stop is the district of Cusipara, so you can enjoy breakfast and prepare for the hike.

    Then we will continue by vehicle to Wasipata to begin the hike.

    From this point, we begin our ascent surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, herds of llamas and alpacas, and a unique view of the snow-capped peaks.

    Finally, after a pleasant hike, we arrive at Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca). Here you will have time to admire its natural beauty, unique colors, and breathtaking views.

    After the visit, we descend to Wasipata and return by vehicle to Cusipata, where a well-deserved lunch awaits us.

    We will return to Cusco after an unforgettable day in the Andes.

    Activities:

    • Breakfast in Cusipata.
    • Transfer to Wasipata and start of the hike.
    • Arrival at Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca).
    • Return to Cusipata.
    • Lunch at a local restaurant.
    • Return to Cusco.

    DAY 6. HUMANTAY LAKE

    We pick you up at your hotel to begin a journey through the mountains of historical Peru.

    We will head to the village of Mollepata to enjoy a delicious breakfast and prepare for the adventure.

    From there, we will continue to Soraypampa, the starting point of our hike. 

    Surrounded by imposing snow-capped peaks, we will head towards the impressive Lake Humantay, a turquoise jewel fed by glacial waters at the foot of Mount Humantay.

    Once we arrive, you will have time to take in the breathtaking scenery, take photos, and simply enjoy the tranquility of the natural surroundings.

    After our visit, we walk back to Soraypampa and return by vehicle to Mollepata, where a well-deserved lunch awaits us.

    We return to Cusco after a day full of adventure and incredible landscapes.

    Activities:

    • Breakfast in Mollepata.
    • Transfer to Soraypampa and start the hike.
    • Arrival at Lake Humantay.
    • Return to Mollepata for lunch.
    • Return to Cusco.

    DAY 7. QESWACHAKA TOUR

    Our adventure to explore the wonderful Andean landscapes begins after picking you up at your hotel.

    First, we will visit the Cuatro Lagunas, a series of beautiful lakes surrounded by snow-capped mountains, where you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, connect with the culture and traditions of Peru, and take unforgettable photos.

    Next, we will go to the Pabellones Volcano, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

    We will head to the Inca Bridge, where you will have the opportunity to cross the bridge from both sides; you will feel the excitement and historical importance of this site, a living heritage of the Inca civilization.

    Our last stop is the Colonial Inca Bridge of Checacupe, a place that combines Inca and colonial architecture in an impressive way.

    The day ends with a return to Cusco to relax after a long day of adventure.

    Activities:

    • Visit to the Four Lakes.
    • Tour of the Pabellones volcano.
    • Visit and crossing of the Inca Bridge on both sides.
    • Stop at the Checacupe Bridge.
    • Return to Cusco.

    DAY 8. TRANSFER TO THE AIRPORT

    Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a free morning in Cusco, visiting the Plaza de Armas and soaking in the culture and traditions of Peru, before your transfer to the airport. Your incredible Peruvian journey has come to an end!

Price 2026

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What Travellers Say About Real Dreams

Verified reviews · Real Dream Tours
Great tour company. Amazing tour guides. Safe driver !
We had the BEST time with Real Dream tours. Our tour guide was Andrés and our driver maybe (Javier) was the ABSOLUTE BEST. We went to the hot springs. Got there safely. We hiked a beautiful trail. Andres took some photos of us and pretty much took care of everything when we arrived at the spa. Andres was also very knowledgeable about the country. Educated us on some fun facts. We were traveling as a family of 5. The company is great! They personalized everything for us. They can customize anything you need. Even dropped us off at the airport after our relaxing day. Such great people. highly recommended! Will use them again.
tktun20906
washington dc
June 11, 2025
Quilotoa -day trip

Quilotoa is a beautiful place it’s worth the long trip from Quito. I would totally recomend. The views are just stunning.

Also our tour guide was Pedro. 10/10

Carol
Puerto Rico
March 10, 2025
Vielen Dank Pedro!
Ich hatte eine tolle Zeit mit meinem Guide Pedro. Vom hoch gelegenen Cotopaxi, über die im perfekten Sonnenschein schimmernde Quilotoa Lagune, zum abenteuerlichen Banos und schliesslich in den abgelegenen Regenwald in der Itamandi Lodge, hat Pedro alles gegeben um meine Reise perfekt zu machen.
Martin
May 21, 2025
Great company-book with confidence.

Andres made the day! We have hired many many different guides in many many different countries and Andres was one of the best we have had. He perfectly split the difference between information and giving us our space. He was attentive to our 10 year old…especially important on such a very long day. Keeping the little one going made for a successful day for all of us.

He and the driver spotted a toucan along a road and halted everything, hustled us out of the car and made sure we all saw it and got pictures. Well done!

We combined this tour with visits to both equator exhibits and while this was no fault of the tour company (they had informed us of road closures and we were not upset) it took us much longer to get back than planned and we nearly ran out of time. We got the photos we wanted so no harm no foul, but we cut it very close. I’m thankful for the good driver we had!

maureenehess
Bogota, Colombia
June 20, 2025
Fantastic trip to local market and beautiful nature.
Very nice trip to a very nice market. This is South America's largest outdoor market. Also got to stop at the original center of the world, and taste very good biscuits 😁
Helge B
July 12, 2025
Otavala Market
Great trip to the Otavalo market. Andrés was a wonderful guide who shared so much history and stories about Equador and the area. A great day tour from Quoto.
Martedal
July 9, 2025
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Looking for a personalized experience? Tell us your travel dates, group size, and interests, and our local experts will help you design the perfect tour in Ecuador or the Galápagos Islands. This request is completely free and without obligation — we’re happy to adapt the itinerary, pace, and activities to match your travel style.
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Sonja R
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The perfect day I spent a glorious day with the dream team: Jimmy, the alert, cautious, and responsible driver, and Andres, the super kind, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic tour guide. The day exceeded my expectations: I saw and experienced everything I had heard about Cotopaxi and Banos - and then some. I learned a lot and felt extremely well taken care of. I highly recommend this trip to anyone who wants to see these two famous places in Ecuador in just one day. And if you’re lucky enough, you’ll be driven by Jimmy and guided by Andres.
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Voyager212497
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Ecuador with Andres and Jimmy!!!! Andres and Jimmy were awesome guides!!!! First time to Ecuador and loved every minute. Andres and Jimmy made the most of our day and introduced us to many local places. Just what we were looking for!
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Angela C
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Perfect Equador Tour!! Our guide, Miriam was absolutely amazing!! She shared all of the unbelievable information about her country and let us decide what we wanted to do on the tour.
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Stefano P
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Wonderful experience en la Sierra Esperienza indimenticabile. La nostra guida Ayrton è sempre stato disponibile, attento sia alle nostre necessità che alla nostra sicurezza. Sin dal momento del pick up ci ha dato innumerevoli informazioni sui luoghi che stavamo visitato, facendoci immergere completamente nella cultura Ecuadoriana. Prezzo del tour non economico, ma ne vale la pena.
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sv
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parfait camping parfait rien a dire sauf l'accès compliqué a la plage
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Jacki R
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Cotapaxi tour Andres was a wonderful, engaging, knowledgeable and very friendly tour guide. Both he and the driver, Diego, provided us with a highly memorable tour. This was our favorite tour out of our 4 days in Quito. A large part of it was due to Andres. We highly recommend Andres and Diego!
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Victoria K
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Great experience and company! This tour was absolutely wonderful from the adventure to the company of Ayrton. This walk was intense but totally worth it, i will do the summit next year. I’m very happy with the tour, from the pick up until the drop off! Ayrton is very friendly, knowledgeable, and he knows how to take the best photos that’ll last a lifetime ☺️ I’m very pleased, thank you so much for a great experience!
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Tani Davis
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Amazing views Andrés was an excellent tour guide. His knowledge of the zone, the fun facts, the trivia questions and the cool attitude made this experience one of a kind! Ciro was an excellent driver and got us back and forth safe. Thank you! The tour was just enough to get good photos from both places, grab lunch and head back. If you want to take a longer experience on either place, probably book a full day per location.
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L C
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Amazing experience I did a tour/hike of Cotopaxi with guide Andres and driver Jimmy. The scenery was gorgeous! The hike was challenging just due to the altitude but worth it for the views and seeing the Refugio. Guide Andres had so much great information about the history, people, geography and animals in the area. He was friendly and helpful and answered any questions I had about the area. Highly recommend this tour.
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Maddy C
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Book it – you won't regret it! Absolutely incredible experience – 10/10! I cannot recommend this tour enough! I booked a private day trip from Quito to Chimborazo, and it was truly one of the highlights of my nearly two months exploring Ecuador. I honestly can't believe more tourists don't visit Chimborazo — it is absolutely breathtaking, and such an amazing place to experience. I was picked up directly from my apartment, we stopped for breakfast, and then headed out toward Chimborazo. Irene was an absolutely FABULOUS guide — incredibly knowledgeable, warm, and genuinely passionate about Ecuador. I learned SO much from her throughout the day, and that is saying something, as I've already spent nearly two months exploring Ecuador! She shared so much fascinating information about the landscape, history, culture, and the area around Chimborazo. Jimmy was our driver and was equally wonderful. He has such a great sense of humor and was an excellent, very safe driver. He also came along on the hike with us, which was such a nice surprise! He also recommended a delicious restaurant for lunch. Irene and Jimmy were both so kind and made the entire day feel easy, fun, and comfortable. As a 22-year-old woman traveling alone, I also want to emphasize how truly safe and secure I felt the entire time. I was completely comfortable with both Irene and Jimmy, and they took such great care of me throughout the day. I never once felt worried or uncomfortable traveling so far from Quito on my own. And, the PHOTOS! Irene and Jimmy took FABULOUS pictures of me — genuinely better than anything I could have taken myself. They knew exactly where to stop and how to capture the scenery, and I came away with so many incredible photos and memories from the day. The hike itself was also amazing. I personally found it less difficult than hiking Cotopaxi, although the altitude is definitely challenging and should not be underestimated! The landscape is absolutely surreal, and being up there surrounded by that incredible scenery is an experience I will never forget. If you're considering doing this tour, book it! Especially if you're traveling alone, I could not recommend Irene and Jimmy more highly. They were knowledgeable, funny, kind, professional, and made the entire experience unforgettable. This was one of the best days I've had in Ecuador, and I am so grateful to them both! It's so worth it.

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