Excursion Overland experience: machu picchu - the sacred valley experience tour at Manta

Discover the treasures of the Inca Empire on a captivating journey through Peru’s Sacred Valley and the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu. Combining dramatic Andean landscapes, authentic cultural traditions, archaeological wonders, and exceptional hospitality, this overland adventure offers an unforgettable immersion into one of the world’s most fascinating civilizations.

03MIDMTA-I Overland Experience: Machu Picchu & the Sacred Valley

Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights

Departs from: Manta, Ecuador

Re-join Ship: Callao, Peru

Reserve: At least 90 days prior to sailing

IMPORTANT NOTE

This Overland Experience requires advance booking no later than 90 days prior to sailing. Requests received after this date may be accommodated on a space-available basis.

A minimum number of participants is required to operate this programme. Should the minimum participation threshold not be reached, the operator reserves the right to modify or cancel the programme.

Air ticket pricing is referential and subject to change until flights are confirmed and ticketed.

Machu Picchu entrance permits are limited and must be secured in advance. Complete passport details are required no later than 60 days prior to departure. Once issued, Machu Picchu entrance tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable.

Luggage allowance includes one checked suitcase weighing up to 23 kg (50 lbs) and one carry-on bag weighing up to 10 kg (22 lbs) per person.

Shore excursion credits and onboard credits cannot be applied toward overland programmes.

VISA INFORMATION

Please consult your travel advisor regarding visa requirements for Ecuador and Peru. It is the responsibility of each guest to obtain all required travel documentation prior to participating in this programme.

LOCAL CURRENCY

The local currency in Peru is the Peruvian Sol (PEN). U.S. Dollars are accepted in many tourist establishments, while major credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and shops.

DAY ONE | MANTA – LIMA

Gateway to Peru

Depart the ship in Manta and transfer to the airport for your flight via Quito to Lima, Peru’s vibrant capital city overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Upon arrival in Lima, meet your local representatives and transfer to your airport hotel.

Enjoy a relaxing evening and dinner before beginning your Andean adventure the following day.

Dinner and Overnight: Wyndham Grand Costa del Sol Lima Airport Hotel

DAY TWO | LIMA – CUSCO – SACRED VALLEY

Into the Sacred Valley of the Incas

Following breakfast, return to Lima Airport for your flight to Cusco.

Upon arrival in the heart of the Andes, begin your journey into the Sacred Valley, one of the most fertile and culturally significant regions of the former Inca Empire.

Your first archaeological discovery is Pisac, a spectacular complex renowned for its extensive agricultural terraces, ceremonial sites, and breathtaking mountain setting. Perched high above the valley floor, the site provides remarkable insight into the ingenuity of Inca engineering and agriculture.

Continue to Hacienda Sarapampa, a historic estate surrounded by lush cornfields and Andean peaks

Here, enjoy a traditional Peruvian lunch accompanied by an elegant exhibition of the celebrated Peruvian Paso Horse and a colorful Marinera dance performance. These living traditions offer a fascinating introduction to Peru’s rich cultural heritage.

Guests also enjoy time exploring the hacienda and learning about the region's agricultural traditions before continuing to the hotel.

As evening settles over the valley, gather in the hotel gardens for a welcome cocktail and an authentic Andean cultural performance.

Dinner and Overnight: Tambo del Inka, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa

DAY THREE | SACRED VALLEY – MACHU PICCHU – SACRED VALLEY

A Legendary Encounter

After an early breakfast, transfer to Ollantaytambo Station and board the panoramic Vistadome Observatory train.

The rail journey itself is one of the highlights of the programme, winding through rugged mountain landscapes, narrow river valleys, snow-capped peaks, and ancient Inca settlements.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, continue by shuttle bus up the mountainside to Machu Picchu.

Believed to have served as a royal sanctuary for Emperor Pachacutec, Machu Picchu remains one of the world's most extraordinary archaeological sites. Surrounded by dramatic peaks and cloud forest, this UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World continues to inspire awe through its remarkable preservation, architectural brilliance, and mysterious history.

Enjoy a guided exploration of the citadel before lunch at the Sanctuary Lodge, ideally situated adjacent to the archaeological site.

Following lunch, return to Aguas Calientes where time is available for independent exploration, shopping, or visiting the local artisan market.

Board the Vistadome train for the picturesque return journey through the Sacred Valley before returning to your hotel.

Dinner and Overnight: Tambo del Inka, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa

DAY FOUR | CUSCO – LIMA – CALLAO

The Ancient Capital of the Incas

Travel to Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire and one of South America's most celebrated cultural destinations.

Begin your exploration at Koricancha, once the most important temple in the Inca world, dedicated to the Sun God. The remarkable stone foundations remain visible beneath the colonial Santo Domingo Convent built following the Spanish conquest.

Continue into the historic heart of the city and visit the Cathedral Basilica of the Virgin of the Assumption. This magnificent structure showcases treasured colonial artworks, ornate gold altarpieces, sculptures, and masterpieces of the renowned Cusco School of Art.

Enjoy lunch at the acclaimed MAP Café, located within the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art and widely regarded as one of Cusco's most elegant dining venues.

Later, transfer to the airport for your return flight to Lima before continuing to Callao to rejoin the ship.

PLEASE NOTE

Activity Level

This programme involves a moderate to extensive level of activity. Guests should be comfortable walking on uneven surfaces, cobblestones, inclines, and numerous steps.

Altitude Considerations

This tour travels from sea level to elevations exceeding 11,200 feet (3,400 metres). Guests may experience altitude-related discomfort.

Guests with cardiovascular conditions, respiratory concerns, or other significant medical conditions should consult their physician before participating.

Oxygen support can be requested through the hotel if required.

Accessibility

This programme is not suitable for guests using wheelchairs, mobility scooters, walkers, or for guests with limited mobility.

Machu Picchu Entrance Regulations

Machu Picchu access is strictly regulated by Peruvian authorities.

Available circuits may include:

• Classic Circuit + Upper Terrace

 • Classic Circuit + Lower Terrace

 • Royal Circuit

The final route is subject to availability at the time entrance permits are secured.

Guided visits must follow the designated route assigned by the entrance ticket.

Additional Information

Guests should bring:

• Valid passport and ship identification

 • Comfortable walking shoes with non-slip soles

 • Layered clothing for varying temperatures

 • Hat and sunglasses

 • Sunscreen and insect repellent

 • Small backpack for daily essentials

 • Rain jacket or weather protection

Tour order and timings may vary due to weather conditions, flight schedules, operational requirements, or local regulations.

WHAT IS INCLUDED

• Flights between Manta, Quito, Lima, and Cusco as outlined in the programme

• Three nights accommodation at premium hotels

• Guided visit to Machu Picchu

• Machu Picchu entrance permit

• Vistadome Observatory train journey

• Shuttle transportation between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu

• Visit to Pisac archaeological site

• Hacienda Sarapampa cultural experience

• Peruvian Paso Horse presentation and Marinera dance performance

• Welcome cocktail and Andean cultural show

• Meals as specified in the itinerary

• Professional English-speaking guides and tour escorts

• All transportation and transfers as outlined

• Applicable local taxes and service charges

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED

• Personal expenses

• Additional beverages not specified

• Gratuities for guides, drivers, hotel staff, and train staff

• Travel insurance

• Visa fees and documentation expenses

• Optional purchases during free time

• Any item not specifically listed under "What Is Included"

Key Selling Points

• Explore the remarkable Pisac archaeological site overlooking the Sacred Valley

• Experience an exclusive visit to Hacienda Sarapampa with a traditional Peruvian Paso Horse exhibition and Marinera performance

• Enjoy a welcome cocktail and Andean cultural show in the Sacred Valle

• Stay at the luxurious Tambo del Inka Resort & Spa

• Travel aboard the panoramic Vistadome Observatory train through the Andes

• Visit Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World

• Enjoy free time in Machu Picchu Pueblo and its artisan market

• Discover the highlights of historic Cusco, including Koricancha and the Cathedral Basilica

• Savor refined Peruvian cuisine at the celebrated MAP Café

• Experience the dramatic landscapes, living traditions, and archaeological treasures of the Andes in one unforgettable journey

Note