Top Cusco Overnight Tours

This was a great way to see the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. As a solo traveler going to Peru for the first time, I wanted to make this as simple as possible, especially as I was unsure as to how the altitude would effect me. First off, the logistics were handled flawlessly. From being picked up at the airport, to morning tours, to drop off back at the hotel and then airport at the end of the trip, every guide and driver was where they were supposed to be, when they said they would be there. This company is located at Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu), and contracts out airport transfers and the Sacred Valley Tour, (as do a lot of others as well - as everyone on my first day tour was from a separate tour company) - but everything truly was seamless - if it wasn't for the different uniforms, and that the first tour company told us that, I would have not noticed. I enjoyed all aspects of the first day, even though you end up in some tourist shops, I enjoy the learning aspect of that, seeing how the crafts are made, and exploring markets. At no time did I fell overly pressured to buy anything. I also really enjoyed the lunch spot they brought us to. Some times on tours like this you can end up at a pretty crappy lunch spot. This was probably the best buffet tour lunch I have had. A slightly less expensive alternative was offered as well, which I appreciated. The second day was great. Its Machu Picchu. Not much I can add. The train ride in and out of Aguas Calientes was gorgeous, and they got me a window seat on the river side of the train. I would not have even known to ask for that, but if you are booking the train, see if they can make that happen. Might have just been a happy coincidence for me. As a bonus, the car ride back from Ollyentembo (SP) to Cusco, went over the high Andean plain and seeing those farming and lake communities at between 10,000 and 12,000 feet was amazing - lucky for the time of year, but do try and see it in the day light. The only downside, and this is probably a Peru thing, was the hotel in Aguas Calientes (Wyman SP?). It wasn't horrible, and I did get a good night's sleep. But it really is a step or two up from a nice hostel. My original room on the second floor was loud, I could hear everything being said in the Lobby. They were kind enough to move me to a room on the 5th floor, which was a little better once they finished cleaning the restaurant on the 6th floor. However the breakfast was better than acceptable in a beautiful room of the 6th floor. And the water pressure was excellent in the shower. If you are picky about hotel rooms, I would suggest seeing if you can upgrade the hotel - but the place is fine otherwise. And the staff is very friendly and helpful. Oh yea - make sure you are in decent shape before going - climbing the steps at altitude will tire you out. But the guides were good at measuring the pace and provided rest as we went.