No worries, we have a solution! Many Cusco residents have already planned their trek to Machu Picchu. You can choose to do the Salkantay or Inca treks, but you will still need to spend a few days in Cusco adjusting and getting ready for your big day.

This is the original 2-day itinerary through the Sacred Valley. To keep costs down, we searched for the most efficient and cost-effective way to visit the top sites. However, we encourage you to check out the alternative routes.

We’ll give you all the information you need to plan your hike. While this itinerary isn’t tricky, you should know that it will require some physical fitness. It will also take you uphill. At this altitude, it can be more tiring than usual. You can spend a few days in the area Sacred Valley Tour from Ollantaytambo without breaking the bank and will be able to acclimatize at a lower elevation.

We recommend you use Maps—me, an offline app, on your smartphone. You can download it for free on any smartphone. Although we have found it reliable in all aspects, one thing makes it stand out. You can’t always verify the quality of offline maps before you use them. If trails are not used often, the vegetation will take over, and the course will disappear. Sometimes the routes shown on maps are just “shortcuts” taken by locals. This can make them quite dangerous.

The trails in the Sacred Valley don’t disappoint. We lost our way a few times, so we had to ask the local farmers for help. Below are two maps we created to help you get prepared. The first is a map that covers the entire 2-day route, while the second shows a closer view of the hiking area. This Sacred valley Peru maps are FREE! They will help you follow our written itinerary and ensure you find the best routes between Media Luna and Salineras de Maras.

After arriving at the ruins entrance, you must cross a small wooden bridge and pass through the artisanal markets before reaching the ticket counter. To enter the ruins, your Boleto Turistico (tourist card) will need to be presented. Before you can enter the ruins, you’ll need to have one.

This stage will allow you to hire a guide and learn about the history of these ruins. Although we try to keep costs under control, we don’t usually hire guides for this stage. We feel like we missed vital information about the history of the site.

Ollantaytambo is approximately 90 minutes. You will have plenty of time to wander around the ruins and learn about the area. From the top, you can enjoy breathtaking views. Also, we recommend visiting the far right (the green or yellow circuit). It is a stunning view over the town, and Pinkuylluna ruins on the other side.