Highlights
- Interaction with the Local Community: Visitors have the opportunity to meet the inhabitants of Misminay, an agricultural community that has kept alive its ancestral customs. The villagers are known for their hospitality and invite them to participate in daily activities such as planting, harvesting, or preparing traditional foods.
- Traditional Textiles: One of the most fascinating aspects of Misminay is its textile art. The women of the community are experts in the use of weaving techniques that have been passed down from generation to generation.
- Beautiful Views of the Sacred Valley: From Misminay, one enjoys breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley, with majestic mountains and terraced fields. In addition, it is possible to see the snow-capped mountain of Veronica and the famous archaeological site of Moray in the distance.
- Traditional Andean Gastronomy: During the tour, visitors can taste traditional dishes prepared with fresh ingredients from the region. Lunch usually includes quinoa, corn, potatoes and other local products that are grown organically in the surrounding area.
- Agricultural Experiences: Travelers can participate in agricultural activities, learning about traditional farming methods that have been passed down through the centuries. This direct connection with the land allows visitors to understand the importance of agriculture in the life of the community.
- Andean Ceremonies and Rituals: On special occasions, visitors can witness or even participate in Andean rituals dedicated to Pachamama (Mother Earth), where offerings are made in gratitude for the harvests.
Itinerary
Visit Chinchero, Moray and Visit to Misminay Rural Community
The Misminay tour with overnight starts at 7:30 am with a pick-up from your hotel in Cusco.
After a 1-hour journey through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, you’ll reach the town of Chinchero. Here, your guide will lead you through the local market and take you on a guided tour of the archaeological site and the Colonial Temple.
Next on the itinerary is a visit to the circular agricultural terraces of Moray, an experimental and research center used by the Incas due to its varying micro-climate and surrounding mountain range. After exploring Moray, you’ll head to the nearby Maras salt mines, a unique array of salt ponds formed into terraced steps and fed by an irrigation channel. Your guide will explain the traditional ‘mining’ methods of the local community and the historical importance of the salt mines in the region.
The final destination of the day is the nearby community of Misminay, where the residents will warmly welcome you with music and dance. You will then enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by your hosts using natural, local ingredients.
After lunch, you’ll embark on a tour of the town to learn about its customs and traditions, followed by a walk to a viewpoint that offers a stunning panorama of the entire Sacred Valley and the agricultural terraces of Moray.
You can participate in activities such as tilling the land, harvesting or planting crops, and giving thanks to Mother Earth, known as ‘Pachamama’. Alternatively, you can choose to learn about the textile-making processes, including spinning, weaving, and dyeing garments with natural ingredients. In this community, women traditionally oversee this important work, and they will share with you their ancestral techniques, passed down through generations.
As evening approaches, you will join your host family for dinner, don traditional regional costumes, and share stories and legends around a bonfire. Finally, you’ll return to the family home within the community to spend the night.
AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU TOUR – CUSCO
7:00 a.m. After enjoying breakfast with your host family, our transportation will arrive to pick you up and take you to Ollantaytambo Train Station.
9:15 a.m. You will board the train to Aguas Calientes, accompanied by your guide.
11:00 a.m. Your guide will lead you to the bus station, where you’ll catch the tourist bus to Machu Picchu. The scenic 30-minute bus ride from Aguas Calientes ascends the mountainside to the entrance of the Inca citadel. Once inside, you’ll embark on a 3-hour exploration of Machu Picchu’s rich history, guided by your personal tour guide. In addition to visiting renowned sites like the Temple of the Sun, the Central Plaza, and the stepped terraces, you’ll have ample opportunity to capture those iconic photos at the panoramic viewpoint of Machu Picchu before boarding the bus back down the mountain.
After reuniting with your guide and returning to Aguas Calientes by bus, there will be time to enjoy lunch at one of the town’s many restaurants (optional extra), before catching the train back to Ollantaytambo. Our private transportation will be waiting to take you on the 2-hour drive back to your hotel in Cusco, with an estimated arrival time of 10:00 p.m.
Inclusions
Included:
- Pickup from your hotel in Cusco
- Professional tour guide fluent in English and Spanish
- Entrance fees for Chinchero, Moray, and Ollantaytambo
- Entrance tickets to the Machu Picchu (circuits types)
- Comfortable private transportation within the Sacred Valley
- Private transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco
- Cultural experience with the Misminay community, including traditional clothing, food, and activities
- Meals at the homestay: 1 lunch, 1 breakfast
- Round-trip train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and back
- Round-trip bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and back
- 1 night’s accommodation 3*** in Aguas Calientes, including breakfast
Not included:
- Extra meals
Choose Your PeruRail Train Experience
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PeruRail Trains Comparison
| Feature | Expedition | Vistadome | Observatory | Hiram Bingham |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Windows | Standard Panoramic | Full Panoramic (Roof & Walls) | Full Panoramic (Roof & Walls) | Large Classic Windows |
| Seating Layout | Seats facing each other with table | Leather seats, facing each other | Leather seats, spacious | Plush armchairs, elegant dining tables |
| Food & Drinks | Available for purchase | Light snack & non-alcoholic drinks | Light snack & non-alcoholic drinks | Gourmet Lunch/Dinner & Open Bar |
| Entertainment | Ambient Andean Music | Cultural Dance & Fashion Show (Return) | Live Music & Cultural Show | Live Band in Bar Car |
| Special Features | - | - | Access to open-air balcony car | Includes bus, citadel ticket & guide |
| Estimated Price (One-way) | From $65 USD | From $85 USD | From $110 USD | From $490 USD |
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Pricing Options
At Machu Picchu Peru Travel, we offer personalized Overnight Misminay Community with Machu Picchu 2 Days, designed to match your interests and preferences. With expert local guides and customized itineraries, explore the beauty of the Andes. Check out our pricing options for a memorable adventure.
(Enjoy this service only for you and your family – minimun 2 people for reservation) if you are a group of 4 people let us know to get a special discount
Recommendations for visiting the Misminay Comunity
- The tour to the community of Misminay is a profound cultural experience that allows you to immerse yourself in Andean traditions. It is ideal for those who are looking for an experiential tourism and want to learn about life in the countryside of the Sacred Valley.
- It is recommended to go with an open attitude to participate in local activities such as agriculture, textile making and the preparation of typical foods.
- Bring a camera or smartphone, as the panoramic views and interaction with the community are unique moments to capture.
The Climate in the Misminay Community
- Temperate climate: During the day, temperatures can range between 15°C and 20°C, but at night, especially between May and September, temperatures can drop to 5°C or lower.
- Rainy season: From November to March, it is common to find rain in the Sacred Valley, which can make rural roads slippery.
- Dry season: From April to October, it is ideal for visits, with sunny days and cool nights.
How to Dress for visiting the Misminay Community
- Layered clothing: It is recommended to wear clothing that can easily adjust to temperature variations, such as t-shirts, light sweaters and windbreaker jackets.
- Comfortable footwear: Wear hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers, as the terrain may include uneven or muddy trails, especially in the rainy season.
- Hat and sunscreen: Despite the cool weather, the sun at high altitudes is intense, so a good hat and sunscreen are essential.
Recommended Time of Year to Visit Misminay Community
- The best time to visit Misminay is between April and October, during the dry season, when the weather is more stable and outdoor activities are more pleasant.
- If you decide to go during the rainy season (November to March), be sure to bring raincoats and be prepared for rapid weather changes.
What to visit in the Misminay Community
- Community interaction: Travelers participate in daily activities such as farming, food preparation, and textile workshops.
- Textile demonstrations: Local women show how they create their traditional weavings, using ancestral techniques.
- Panoramic views: From Misminay, you can appreciate the archaeological site of Moray, the snow-capped mountains and the impressive cultivation terraces.
- Agricultural activities: Visitors can participate in the planting or harvesting of crops such as potatoes, corn and quinoa.
How to be in good health to visit the Misminay Community
- Moderate fitness level: A high level of fitness is not necessary, but it is important to be comfortable walking on rural trails and at high altitudes (Misminay is at 3,700 meters above sea level).
- If you are not used to the altitude, it is advisable to acclimatize in Cusco or the Sacred Valley for a few days before the tour.
Recommended age to visit the Misminay Community
- Suitable for all ages: This tour is ideal for families with children as well as for seniors. The activities can be adapted to different physical abilities and preferences.
- However, it is important to note that young children and the elderly may require additional assistance due to the altitude.
Some additional tips for visiting the Misminay Community
- Constant hydration: Altitude can affect travelers, so always carry a bottle of water to stay hydrated.
- Coca leaves or mate: Coca tea or chewing coca leaves is a common practice to combat altitude sickness.
- Typical lunch: Enjoy a traditional Andean meal, with fresh products grown in the same community.
- Cash: Carry cash in soles, as it is unlikely that you will find ATMs or the possibility of paying by card.
- Respect for the culture: The inhabitants of Misminay maintain many of their ancestral customs. It is recommended to show respect for their traditions and ways of life.
- Consult with your guide: Always keep in touch with your local guide to receive detailed explanations about activities and customs.
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