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Discover Inti Raymi: The Feast of the Sun in Cusco

Welcome, travelers and culture lovers! Today we want to invite you to a unique and vibrant experience that you can only live in the heart of the Peruvian Andes: The Inti Raymi, the Festival of the Sun. We are excited to share with you everything you need to know to enjoy this ancestral celebration to the fullest. 

What is Inti Raymi? 

The Inti Raymi is one of the most important festivities of the Andean calendar, celebrated every June 24 in the city of Cusco. This ceremony has its roots in the Inca Empire, when tribute was paid to the Sun God (Inti) to thank him for the harvests and ask for prosperity for the new agricultural cycle. Today, the Inti Raymi is a recreation of these ancient rituals, combining tradition and spectacle in an event that attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world.

Live the History in Sacsayhuaman 

The celebration of Inti Raymi takes place in several emblematic scenarios of Cusco, the esplanade of Sacsayhuaman is the main one. This impressive archaeological site, with its colossal carved stones and imposing presence, serves as the backdrop for the theatrical representation of the ceremony. Here, more than 500 actors dressed in traditional costumes recreate the ancient Inca ceremony, offering an unforgettable visual and cultural experience. 

Tips for your trip  

  1.  Comfortable and Warm Clothes: June in Cusco can be cold, especially at night. Wear layered clothing to adapt to temperature changes.  
  1. Sun Protection: Despite the cold, the sun in the Andes is strong. Don’t forget your sunscreen and hat.  
  1. Hydrate: The altitude can affect some travelers, so drink plenty of water and take your time to acclimatize.  
  1. Camera: You don’t want to miss the opportunity to capture the incredible moments of this festival. 

Conclusion  

Inti Raymi is not only a celebration, it is a journey through time that connects you with the rich cultural heritage of Peru. We invite you to be part of this unique experience and discover the majesty of the Inca Empire through this festival of the Sun. Customize your journey with our specialized team. We can’t wait to share the magic of Peru with you! 

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Cusco! 

For more information do not hesitate to call us at +17038225311 or email us at info@magicalcuzcotours.com 

 

Photos by the Municipalidad of Cusco 

Cusco Machu Picchu Peru

What you need to know Before Visiting Machu Picchu in 2024

 

Here we tried to collect some of the main questions we received from people eager to visit Machu Picchu. 

First, let’s start from the question of question! What is the best time to go? Here there are divergent opinions that we can report. On one side, we can say that the best time is from July to August, which is the dry season, when you will not find rain and humidity. On the other hand, we can also say that the quietest moment to visit the citadel is the rainy season, where it is less crowded, and prices are generally lower. 

When is it convenient to buy tickets? We suggest you buy your entry tickets in long advance since there is a limited number of visitors allowed per day, at the moment 2500 for the citadel and less for the other options (see below). There are two slots per day: in the morning (6:00am-12:00pm) and in the afternoon (12:00-17:30pm). 

What are the ticket options? There are several kinds of entry tickets, the basic entry allows you to visit the citadel, but you can add the visit to Huayna Picchu, which allows you to explore the mountain throughout a 2–3-hour hike where you will enjoy stunning landscapes and a great view of Llaqta. The access to Huayna Picchu is allowed only in the morning. The other option is visit to the citadel and Machu Picchu Mountain, a high mountain from where you will enjoy charming views of the citadel. There are more tickets available for Machu Picchu Mountain than for Huayna Picchu daily. Finally, there are tickets available for those visitors who decide to do the Inca Trail. 

How do I reach Machu Picchu? This is another common question we often receive. Also, here you have several options: 

  • Train from Poroy or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, which is the little town located at the bottom of the valley below Machu Picchu. The town is also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo. The journey lasts 3-4 hours. From here you can take the bus to the citadel. Buses start running from 5:00am in the morning. 
  • If you want to do the Inca Trail you will reach the citadel on your own, but you might need to book the Inca trail several months before due to the high demand and the few spots available.  

How do I need to dress? We suggest you wear comfortable shoes, also bring a raincoat, a hat, and sunglasses. It is mandatory to use sunscreen and mosquito repellent. Sun could be very strong over there. 

If you need more information, contact us: info@magicacuzcotours.com or call us (1) 703-822-5311. 

 

 

Cusco Peru Sacred Valley Travel

Places to visit in the Sacred Valley: Ollantaytambo, Maras y Moray

The Sacred Valley of the Incas, in the heart of the Peruvian Andes, is a place full of history, culture, and natural beauty. In this blog, we will explore three of its most fascinating destinations: Ollantaytambo, Maras, and Moray. Each of these places offers a unique experience, connecting visitors with the rich legacy of the Incas and the natural wonders of the region.

Ollantaytambo: The Living Fortress

Ollantaytambo is one of the most important towns in the Sacred Valley and an essential stop for any traveler. Known for its impressive Inca fortress, this historic site served as an important religious, agricultural, and military center during the Inca empire. The ruins of Ollantaytambo offer a window into the past, with perfectly preserved agricultural terraces and massive stone structures that defy the passage of time. Visitors can stroll through the local market, sample traditional food, and enjoy the hospitality of the locals.

Maras: The Millenary Salt Mines  

About 40 kilometers from Cusco, Maras is famous for its ancient salt mines. These salt mines have been exploited since pre-Inca times and continue to be a source of salt today. The salt pans of Maras are composed of thousands of small pools staggered on the side of a mountain, creating a unique and spectacular landscape. Visitors can walk among the pools, learn about the salt production process, and buy local salt as a souvenir. The panoramic views from the salt pans are breathtaking, especially during sunset when the sunlight reflects off the pools creating a magical effect. 

Moray: The Inca Agricultural Laboratory  

Moray is an Inca archaeological site distinguished by its unusual circular terraces. Located about 50 kilometers northwest of Cusco, Moray is considered one of the most striking examples of Inca agricultural engineering. Moray’s concentric terraces resemble an amphitheater and are believed to have been used as an agricultural laboratory to experiment with crops and microclimates. Temperature differences between terrace levels can be as much as 15°C, which allowed the Incas to simulate different climatic conditions and develop crops adapted to various altitudes. Moray offers a unique perspective on the advanced agricultural knowledge of the Incas and their ability to adapt agriculture to the challenging Andean conditions.

Visiting Ollantaytambo, Maras, and Moray is an enriching experience that allows travelers to connect with the history and culture of the Incas while enjoying the breathtaking scenery of the Sacred Valley. These three destinations, each with their magic and mystery, are a sample of the ingenuity and grandeur of one of the most fascinating civilizations in history. What are you waiting for to visit them? 

Customize your journey with our specialized team. We can’t wait to share the magic of Peru with you! 

For more information do not hesitate to call us at +17038225311 or email us at info@magicalcuzcotours.com 

 

 

Cusco Machu Picchu Peru

Discover Machu Picchu: A Journey to the Heart of the Inca Empire

Machu Picchu, an architectural wonder lost deep in the Peruvian Andes, is much more than just a tourist destination; it is a portal to the past, a window into the grandeur of the Inca Empire. In this blog, I invite you to discover the history, nature, and emotion of Machu Picchu, where every step is an adventure and every view is an unforgettable experience. 

Epic Hikes

Machu Picchu does not reveal itself easily. To reach this hidden wonder, one must embark on an epic adventure, either along the legendary Inca Trail or along less-traveled routes. These treks offer much more than simple trails; they are time travels that transport you through changing landscapes, from dense cloud forests to clear highlands, each step bringing you closer to the majesty of Machu Picchu. 

Special Moments 

Every corner of Machu Picchu breathes history and mystery, and exploring it is like unraveling an ancient enigma. Imagine stopping at the Sun Gate at dawn, while the first rays of sunlight illuminate the ancient Inca stones or sitting in silence at the Temple of the Condor, feeling the presence of those who built it centuries ago. It is these special moments that make Machu Picchu an unforgettable visit, leaving a lasting impression on the souls of those who experience it. 

Incredible Views 

From the moment you set foot in Machu Picchu, you are immersed in a world of breathtaking views. The towering mountains surrounding the citadel, such as Huayna Picchu and the imposing Machu Picchu, dominate the skyline, creating an imposing backdrop to this architectural wonder. As you walk through its terraces and plazas, each glance offers a new perspective, a new postcard-worthy of being captured to remember forever. 

An Unforgettable Adventure 

In short, Machu Picchu is much more than a tourist destination; it is an adventure that awakens the senses and nourishes the soul. Whether you embark on a challenging hike, pause to contemplate moments of awe, or marvel at the incomparable views, every moment at Machu Picchu is a unique and unforgettable experience. Are you ready to discover the heart of the Inca Empire? The journey awaits you, full of great adventures, epic treks, special moments, and incredible views. Customize your journey with our specialized team. We can’t wait to share the magic of Peru with you!

For more information do not hesitate to call us at +17038225311 or email us at info@magicalcuzcotours.com

 

Cusco Travel Tips What to do

Five Best Things to do in Cusco

Cusco is a must-seen when traveling to Peru. You should definitely add 3 or 4 days in Cusco when planning your Peru trip. For many travelers visiting Peru without exploring Cusco is like writing a story without a real plot, since you cannot catch the essence of the country. Cusco is a vibrant city, rich in history and culture. Considering that, and being sure that you all have added a stop in Cusco in your Peru’s itinerary, in this article we tried to list top things and activities to do in Cusco area.

  • Sacsayhuaman: do not forget to pay a visit to this archeological Inca site located on top of the city, where you can enjoy a beautiful view of Cusco. Sacsayhuaman is a mural complex, made of huge stones of approximately 300 pounds each, and reachable on foot from Cusco city. The site is located more than 3500 mts above sea level, so if you suffer from altitude sickness consider taking a taxi.

  • Historical Centre: do not forget to visit Cusco’s main square, ranked as one of the most important square in the world. There you can visit the magnificent cathedral, and enjoy the vastity of the square. Take a stroll in the little street around the square, where you can find cozy cafes and restaurants. This spot has been considered the real essence of the Inca Empire.

  • San Blas district: San Blas is the vibrant, boho and creative district of Cusco, where you can find clothes shops, Peruvian artisans’ shops, art galleries and workshops and some of the city’s best restaurants and cafes. Its cobbled streets are fascinating, as well as its colonial architecture.

  • Rainbow Mountain: this is a popular spot for trekking lovers. You can hike the route by yourself in approximately 2 hours or you can rent a horse to make the experience a bit lighter, in one day you will have an amazing trekking experience and enjoy a stunning view. Once you reach the famous rainbow mountain you will enjoy an amazing and not-ordinary colorful landscape. Do not forget your camera! 

  • San Pedro Market: to catch the essence of Peruvian culture you should visit this huge market, located only 10 minutes from Cusco’s main square. This is a great place to try Peruvian authentic food, do not forget to negotiate prices, that’s the funniest part.

Here are only few things that you can do in Cusco, but Cusco is an amazing city where you can find pretty much everything depending on your preferences and specific needs.  

Cusco Machu Picchu Peru Peru Destinations Sacred Valley Travel Tips

Mara Salt Mines: All you need to know before going there

Mara Salt Mines, known in Spanish language as “Las Salineras de Maras” are one of Peruvian’s main attractions for tourists going to the Sacred Valley. If you decide to head to the Sacred Valley on your way to Machu Picchu or on your way back to Cusco, you usually visit PisacOllantaytambo, Maras and Moray which are in the touristic circuit. You should definitely pay a visit to the famous Maras salt mines, located in the Urubamba province, approximately an hour and half from the popular city of Cusco. The salt mines have been fully operational from the pre-Incan times, it’s believed that they were constructed by the Wari civilization. Actually, we should call them salt pans since mines is not a proper word to describe them. They are thousands of pans filled with salt water which evaporates and leaves the crystallized salt in beautiful shapes. The members of the community in the area carefully scrape the salt crystals from the surface. Once all the crystals are scraped, the pans is once again filled with salt water. There are approximately 6000 pans in the area and they are managed by local families. 

As for June 15, 2019 Peruvian MaraSal S.A., which owns the salt mines, has issued a letter to tour operators and Peruvian tourism authorities, about the access restrictions for tourists, that can no longer reach the salty water pools for preservation and health reasons. Contaminants, such as disposable plastic, paper, hair, cigarette stubs have been found in the ponds due to the increasing number of visitors and this could be extremely dangerous since the salt from the mines is consumed and sold in Peru and abroad. So if you are planning to visit this charming site, your tour will end at the viewpoint where you can take beautiful pictures of the mines but you can no longer have a walk through the salty pools. 

Apart from the restrictions we can ensure that the visit is one of a kind, you will enjoy a charming scenery, you can stll see the salt ponds from the top and a have the opportunity to take stunning pictures. Before leaving, pay a visit to the souvenir shops where you can by Maras salt and bring it back home as souvenir, perhaps for your foodie friends. This salt is great for cooking, but it also has medical properties, it contains zinc, calcium, iron and magnesium and it is great to treat skin conditions and swelling.  

Cusco Machu Picchu Peru Peru Destinations Travel Tips

Machu Picchu for Disabled People

Reaching Machu Picchu is not so challenging as it was in the past for disabled people, and this is something important and essential in the XXI century. Machu Picchu has been considered one of the less accessible place in the world for yearsWe all know that visiting this special archeological site is once-in-a-lifetime experience for many travelers and now this wonderful place is finally accessibile to people with reduced mobility. So if you are a person with motor disability you can now enjoy Machu Picchu like anyone else.

As for the beginning of 2018 most of the spots in the ancient ciutadel were accessibile to people with disabilities, obviously not all the areas are accessibile, due to Machu Picchu’s geography and mountainous nature. However, you will be able to visit the site, to feel Machu Picchu special Energy,  to take great pictures and to enjoy stunning views of this world’s wonder. 

But let’s start from the beginning. To reach Macchu Picchu you have to do several stopsalong the way. First of all you need to get to Cusco from Lima, we suggest you to fly into Cusco, it is faster and easier. Lima’s airport is fully equipped for people with disabilities, as well as Cusco’s. Once you get there you have two options: spend the night in Cusco or be transferred to the Sacred Valley. This is actually a recommended choice if you prefer to avoid altitude sickness, which could bea n issue. Sacred Valley is placed at a lower altitude compared to Cusco, so you might prefer to spend the night there and relax before doing any tour or experience. There are several bus companies equipped for disabled travelers, or you can just take a private taxi to reach the Sacred Valley. Once you are in Ollantaytambo, you need to take the train to Machu Picchu Pueblo. Inca Train’s personnel can assist you getting on and up the train. Once you are there you have to make the last leg of the trip: the bus ride to Machu Picchu ciutadel. The bus is equipped for people with reduced mobility.

It would be advisable to travel with a support group or a travel buddy. Also, there are travel agencies specialized in customized travel packages for disabled people, in case you prefer to travel on your own. They are able to ensure all the assistance you might need.

In any case we suggest you to book in advance your train ticket and your Macchu Picchu entry ticket, at least three months before your trip. Also, try to book in advance your accommodation, especially if you are planning to travel in high season. Thease are the reccommendations we usually give to all of our travellers.

We can say that Peru is becoming a more inclusive tourism destination, and we couldn’t be happier and more proud for it.

Cusco Peru Peru Destinations Travel Tips What to do

The Best Active Holidays Routes in Peru

Peru is a perfect travel choice for those of you loving active holidays and looking for a grain of adventure in their trip. The country has some of the most attractive trekking routes in the world and it offers the most amazing and exciting activities in South America. From the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu to the most off the beaten trekking paths in the central Peruvian highlands, such as Huaraz area, from the exciting zipline experience to the highest dining experience ever in Lima with “Dinner in the Sky”. Here a list of activities you should definitely consider if you are an adventurous trip lover.

  • Inca Trail: this is the classic trekking experience in Peru that trekking passionates cannot miss. It is quite prosaic saying that the route is amazing and you will enjoy beautiful view of the Sacred Valley with the Andes chain at the background and the magnificence of the Inca ruins all around. That’s an amazing experience that will take you directly to the Machu Picchu ciutadel. We suggest you to book well in advance your permit to do the Inca trail, since this is the most requested activity for Peru trip. We have already talked about the Inca trail and other hiking routes you could consider doing instead of the inca trail in this article (http://www.magicalcuzcotours.com/blog/3-spots-you-should-not-miss-if-you-love-hiking/), so have  a look at it!

  • Ausangate Trek: this is a one-day trek experience that will take you to the Rainbow Mountain, considered nowadays one of the most popular attractions in Peru. You can hike the route by yourself or you can rent a horse to make the experience a bit lighter. This is up to you and your physical state. Once you reach the famous rainbow moutnain you will enjoy an amazing and not-ordinary colourful landscape. Do not forget your camara!

  • Zip Line and Via Ferrata: This is an exciting activity that you can do in the Sacred Valley. There are several zip lines (they are seven interconnected ziplines), also ideal for people without any previous experience. Via Ferrata is a type of steel ladder and cable system that runs along the Sacred Valley mountains, it has installed a special security system that make it ideal for people with no climbing experience as well. This experience will be absolutely adrenaly pumping for you.

  • Rafting in the Urubamba River: This is another activity you can be engaged in the Sacred Valley. It is very fun to do as family activity or group activity with your friends for instance. You will raft the rapids of class 2 and 3 of the Urubamba river. During the activity you will have the chance to enjoy beautiful panoramic landscapes on the river shores and you will get to know Peruvian flora as well, enjoying flowers species and plants. There are several companies that will rent you all the necessary equipment for this rafting adventure and there will be a tour guide with you the all time, get ready for an exciting experience in Peru!

  • ATV Quad Bike tour in Maras and Moray: you will have the chance to visit Maras and Moray by quad bike, which can be authomatic or semi-authomatic; there is no need to have previous riding experience. During the tour you will have the chance to visit the archeological site of Moray, the Salt Mines and Moray village. This will be the adventure you will never forget!

  • Dinner in the Sky: if you are a food lover and you love to experience foreign food and combine it with adventure and action this is the right experience for you. You will have the chance to enjoy a delicious meal up in the air, up to 45 meters. It is a new experience, arrived in Peru thanks to the Belgium franchise “Dinner in Heaven”at the beginning of 2019, but already popular in more than 70 countries in the world. They have a capacity to serve 22 people and the structure is located nearby Lima, in Lurín. You will enjoy a main course, a dessert and wine. This is definitely a unique dining experience you cannot miss while in Peru.

These are only few of the best adventurous experiences you can live during your Peru trip! Stay tuned for more travel tips and active holidays recommendations.

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Top Places for Amazing Travel Photos in Peru

Are you that kind of traveller, eager to take stunning photos and have them to cherish everlasting memories of his/her trip or to share them in social media or travel blogs? Are you in a costant pursuit of incredible travel photos? This is the right blog article for you. We tried to select the most amazing places in Peru to take the best and the most suggestive travel shots ever!Credits: chrisactive.pl

We didn’t have a hard time selecting these places though, considering that Peru has many amazing views to offer and a wide variety of landscapes, we refer to high mountain picks, the highest lake in the world, paradisiac beaches, amazing trekking routes, beautiful lagoons, charming jungle bridges and even desert. So, if you are into travel photos, Peru is definitely a place you must note down on your travel list right now!

  • Lagoon 69 in Huaraz: This place is simply amazing! Here the celestial lagoon with its intense blue waters meets the clear sky, typical of the Peruvian “sierra”. The Lagoon 69 is located in the Huascarán National Park, in Huraz province, north-east of Lima. It is a 9-hour bus ride from the capital city; if you prefer, you can also fly to Huaraz from Lima. We believe that this is one of the most beautiful lagoon in the world and the trek to reach it is simply amazing, yuo will bump into amazing landscapes, and see beautiful flowers and plants while you walk along the path. You can find more information on this trek here: http://www.magicalcuzcotours.com/blog/huaraz-a-charming-destination-in-the-heart-of-peru/

  • Uros floating islands: this is an archipelago of the Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. Here you will enjoy the blue waters of the lake, crossing the path with the clear sky, learn about Uros indigenous community, their lifestyle, and their activities, such as crafting, cooking, fishing, etc. This is a remarkable experience for travellers who have the chance to meet local people and jump on one of these amazing islands for a bit. The islands are made of “totora” reeds, which grow in the lake. The sun light is amazing on the Titicaca Lake and it will definitely help taking great shots of the lake itself and local people in their daily routine.

  • “La Catedral” in Paracas National Reserve: this is another amazing spot to get great travel pics, where you’ll find a geomorphological attraction in an arch shape, unfortunately partially destroyed during the earthquake which hit Peru in 2007. It is a place to stop and relax during your visit to Paracas National Reserve where you can enjoy all the beauty of the Pacific Ocean and its coast and the relaxing sound of the waves crashing on the shores. The high cliff is extremely fascinating and with the sunlight the color of the sky will reflect on the ocean creating an amazing effect.

  • Rainbow Mountain: this spot became extremely famous and known in the past 5 years, when travellers began to get interested in this amazing mountain, also know as 7-colors mountain. Today it is one of the most beaten path in Peru. The mountain, with its height of 5,200 above sea level, is completely covered by brilliant and colourful sands. This colourful effect comes from the minerals and the rocks which cover the surface of the mountain. Since the hike to reach the pick of the mountain is quite intense, especially if it rains, you can do it by renting horses if you prefer. However, once you get there your effort will be highly rewarded.

Credits: Atlantida.travel 

Credits: Travelholic 

Credits: blog.redbus.pe 

  • Amazon River: one of the most fashinating spot in Peru, where you will be merged into amazing wildlife and hear the sound of the nature. When you arrive to the Peruvian rainforest you have to get to the lodge you selected, and you usually have to take a rustic and traditional boat, called by locals “lancha”, for a river ride which could be short or long depending on the location of your accommodation. During the ride you will connect with the sound of the river and the amazing wildlife of the jungle, which will transfer you in a peaceful atmosphere. If you happen to arrive at your destination around sunset you are pretty lucky and can enjoy beautiful views of the river and the jungle’s flora. That’s the perfect time to get amazing shots.

Actually these are only few of the amazing places you can find in Peru, so grab your camera and best photo equipment, book your trip and come to Peru to get incredible travel photos.

Cusco Peru Sacred Valley

Top Sights in the Sacred Valley

Many tourists coming to Peru are definitely more interested in Lima, Cusco and Machu Picchu and the majority of the time they skip a visit to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. In my opinion that’s a BIG BIG BIG mistake, since this place is magic, here you can find a very special energy that you are not able to find in any other place in Peru. I believe the name “Sacred Valley” can better define what I actually mean. This is a spiritual place where you can definitely recharge your battery after the tiring excursion to Cusco and Machu Picchu. Here a list of places you should not miss once in the area:

Pisac Ruins: The small town of Pisac is located 32 Kilometers (20 Miles) from Cusco. On the top of the modern town there are the ancient ruins, which consist of a vast amount of agricultural terracing and a small Inca village. Made up of groups of terraces, the outline of the site forms the shape of a giant condor. In ancient times the condor was considered to be the messenger of the sun, and the one who was in charge of carrying the spirits of the dead onto the world beyond. For this reason Pisac was also considered to be a place of great spiritual worship.

Pisac Market: Peru’s most famous crafts market takes place in Pisac on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sunday. This ancient Inca village is nestled in the shadow of an imposing Inca fortress and temple and it is famous for its beautiful and colorful market where tourists can shop for traditional handicrafts and every kind of handmade Peruvian products.

Awanakancha: AwanaKancha provides an opportunity to see products made from South America’s four camelids (alpaca, llama, vicuña, and guanaco) from the first steps of the production process to its end: the animal, the shearing, the textile weaving and dyeing, and the finished products, which you can purchase in the showroom. It makes a great stop for the whole family, as kids usually have lots of fun feeding the camelids on-site.

Ollantaytambo Temple: Second in importance only to Machu Picchu, Ollantaytambo includes some of the Inca’s best stonework, including a series of ceremonial baths, elegant trapezoidal doorways, and a sun temple that faces the rising sun.

Maras: It was home to the descendents of the Incas of the Hurin Cusco Clan. In Colonial times, it was the first salt producing center of the central – Sierra. This picturesque town is located 53 km northwest of Cusco (1hour drive) by a paved road. The town has a large church and several colonial houses with code-of-arms of noble families on their facades. Close to Maras, at the Peasant community of Pichingoto, there are salt mines, known locally as “salineras”. Landscape is awesome in this area.

Moray: Located 9 km west of the town of Maras, along an unpaved road, his archeological site is perhaps one of the most mysterious of the pre-Hispanic Cusco area. The site consists of a large irrigation system and a series of concentric agricultural terraces, constructed by means of stone retaining walls. The location is believed to have been an enormous agricultural laboratory in which the Incas purposefully created several microclimates in which they grew a variety of crops.

Chincheros: Known to the Incas as the birthplace of the rainbow, this typical Andean village combines Inca ruins with a colonial church, some wonderful mountain views and a colorful Sunday market. On a high plain with sweeping views to snow-laden peaks, it’s quite beautiful. Since it is very high, it’s unwise to spend the night until you’re somewhat acclimated.

So remember once in Peru do not forget to visit the Sacred Valley. If you have already traveled there and you have more suggestion feel free to add tips and recommendations in the comments.