We explore the famous historical sanctuary of Machu Picchu, one of the most impressive architectural expressions of the Inca civilization. We leave the hotel towards the train station in Ollantaytambo, where we take the train to the town of Aguas Calientes to ascend to Machu Picchu by bus. We explore this magical place for approximately three hours. This version does not include the hike to Puerta del Sol or Inti Punku. Once we’ve visited the sanctuary, we leave Machu Picchu and head towards the station to take the train back.
*This exploration combines Explora services with third-party services, meaning it must be confirmed with our booking team at least 50 days before the visit. It has an additional cost of USD $400 for adults and USD $350 for children (up to 11 years). The exploration to Machu Picchu is provided through the rail company Perú Rail in the “Vistadome” or “Expedition” modality, depending on availability. The entrance to Machu Picchu must be at 11am.
To make your reservation, contact us by email at reserve@explora.com or phone us at +56 2 2395 2800.
Cusco
Suni
Overland
Easy
Full-day
This exploration shows the best of Cusco in one day. We will descend from the fortress of Saqsaywaman down crossing the al leys...
This exploration shows the best of Cusco in one day. We will descend from the fortress of Saqsaywaman down crossing the al leys of the colonial quarter of San Blas to the main square. After lunch, the traveler can continue walking through Cusco with one of our guides or on his/her own. The temple of Corincan cha, on which the Santo Domingo convent was built, Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, the San Pedro Market, some Art Galleries or the hundreds of souvenirs stores are some of the options we recommend. * Tickets to the evening atractions are not included.
Valle Sur
Quechua
Overland
Easy
Full-day
This exploration reveals the influence of the Spanish conquest in the region, embedded in art and in the religious syncretism that resulted...
This exploration reveals the influence of the Spanish conquest in the region, embedded in art and in the religious syncretism that resulted from the encounter of these cultures. We begin by touring the first of three Canincunca churches that we visit in this exploration. We then walk to the Huaro church and take a van to the Andahuaylillas church, where we tour the choir and the museum. Next, we hop on a van towards an Inca road, where we take a light trek to a wetland, perfect for bird watching and having lunch. Finally, we take the van to the Tipón archaeological center, a token of the Inca’s knowledge of fluid power.
Pirka
Suni
Overland
Easy
Full-day
This route first takes us to Ollantaytambo, also known as the “living Inca city”. From there we travel to the archaeological site of Moray...
This route first takes us to Ollantaytambo, also known as the “living Inca city”. From there we travel to the archaeological site of Moray, a laboratory of experimental farming where different microclimates are used to grow crops. From here we continue to Maras and a large lagoon, an ideal place to take a stroll and have lunch, to then follow to the town of Chinchero. The road crosses several fields where we will see farmers working or looking after their animals.
Pisac
Suni
Overland
Easy
Half-day
Known for its remarkable ruins, as well as for its colorful crafts market, the village of Pisac bears witness to the accomplishments and mysteries...
Known for its remarkable ruins, as well as for its colorful crafts market, the village of Pisac bears witness to the accomplishments and mysteries of the Inca civilization.
This exploration allows travellers to discover, by foot, this key enclave of the Sacred Valley, showing an integral vision of the Inca cosmovision.
Chinchero
Suni
Overland
Easy
Half-day
Just 1 hour away from explora, between Urubamba and Cuzco, the village of Chinchero (3762 masl) is believed to be the birthplace...
Just 1 hour away from explora, between Urubamba and Cuzco, the village of Chinchero (3762 masl) is believed to be the birthplace of the Sacred Valley’s textile craftsmanship, as well as a hub for local trade.
This exploration takes travellers through the colonial streets of Chinchero by foot, visiting the village’s adobe church and discovering the unique murals preserved within.
Moray y Salineras
Suni
Overland
Easy
Half-day
Located only 45 min. away from explora (by van), the Maras salt mines are one of the few sites in the world to extract naturally pink salt.
Located only 45 min. away from explora (by van), the Maras salt mines are one of the few sites in the world to extract naturally pink salt. This exploration takes travellers through the open-air salt pools, as well as to the silent village of Maras. Close by, travellers will also find the circular terraces of Moray, once used by the Incas as agricultural laboratories for the empire’s crops, and one of the best-preserved archaeological sites in the valley.
Ayni
Quechua
Overland
Easy
Full-day
We will visit the community of Huayllafara in the valley of Lamay, stopping along the way for a briefing on existing conservation projects...
We will visit the community of Huayllafara in the valley of Lamay, stopping along the way for a briefing on existing conservation projects and then reaching the hike’s starting point. Once in the community, we will take part in farm work –based on the Andean calendar– learning about different local plants and crops. We will also get to know farming tools and techniques passed down through generations. Lunch will be prepared by community members using local produce.
Valle de la Papa
Puna
Overland
Easy
Full-day
This exploration takes the traveler to one of the most fertile areas in the Sacred Valley. The journey begins towards the Quinsacocha lagoon...
This exploration takes the traveler to one of the most fertile areas in the Sacred Valley. The journey begins towards the Quinsacocha lagoon, a sublime site that features the typical Cusco puna landscape. Going downhill, we will cross the el Valle de la Papa and next, visit the Quechua community of Chahuaytire, a place with an ancient textile tradition where we will learn about natural dying and back strap loom techniques. The trip ends with a visit to the stunning archaeological center of Pisaq, a city built on a mountain with hundreds of remarkable hanging farm terraces on its slopes.