Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco
2 days - 1 nights
Moderate
2430 m.s.n.m
Cutural
It is a 2 day tour sacred valley and machu picchu, focused on Inca ruins, mountain landscapes, and traditional Andean civilization. It is an opportunity to visit the local neighborhoods and the conventional markets, too. We will also pass through peaks and deep canyons.
On this Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley tour, we pass through landscapes of over 3,000 meters. You will pass hills and green areas that were utilized to provide a great civilization. On the first day, we will explore the Sacred Valley sites. They represent the Inca farming experience, and the valley, which still recalls its age-old past.
The second day, you will pay a visit to Machu Picchu. A picturesque passage on a train, via shady hills, to terraces, to temples. A train ride via the hills to the fort, where we breathe in the fresh mountain air of this incredible place. The sights are unforgettable and viewed from a height of 2,430 meters.
There is more to this amazing itinerary of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour than just the places. The tour is a blend of relaxing travel, authentic local knowledge, and being able to do things quickly. Transport and beautiful train sections make it very comfortable. The local guides who are knowledgeable about the area enliven the journey. We end up with pictures, stories, and the liveliness of the experience.
Why Choose the Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley Tour?
Machu Picchu is on the list of numerous individuals. However, not everyone is aware of the multiple places you can see here. This Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour offers more than meets the eye. Two big Inca sites, and sightseeing are all incorporated in two days.
This is the good thing about this tour:
- Option to see two iconic Inca destinations in a short trip.
- You explore Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo with guided visits.
- A scenic train journey to Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
- You stay at Aguas Calientes, in the mountains.
- Professional local guides tell you about the history of the places you will visit.
- It is ideal for couples, households, and small groups.
- Itinerary
- Inclusions
- Recommendations
Complete itinerary Tour Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu
Day 01: Cusco – Chinchero – Moray – Maras Salt Mines – Aguas Calientes
The one-day Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley tour will start with a hotel pick-up between 6:30 AM and 7:00 AM. Then we will start the ride through the Andes and pass through valleys formed by rivers. Our first stop will be Chinchero. In Chinchero, we will learn how to dye the camelids’ wool at an interpretation center and look at local traditions that are still present.
Then, on this sacred valley and Machu Picchu tour, we will arrive at Moray and view the circular terraces. You will learn how the Incas built an agricultural laboratory in Moray. Each terrace produced its own microclimate and also allowed the Incas to cultivate crops from other regions. This site will demonstrate its capability in science and agriculture.
After Raquet, we will then arrive at the famous Maras Salt Mines. They still produce salt using traditional techniques over thousands of salt pools. We will walk across narrow paths and admire the geometric scene, together with their cultivation of the salt trade. This stop offers spectacular views of the mines while also gaining insights into the Salt culture and trade.
In the afternoon, we will head to Urubamba province for a buffet lunch. This will be a special part of your tour to the Sacred Valley. Then, we will drive to Ollantaytambo, an Inca fortress, and visit its stunning temples. We will rest overnight in Aguas Calientes to prepare for the highlight: Machupicchu.
Day 1 Statistics
- Distance traveled:120 km by bus and train
- Highest altitude: 3,762 meters above sea level in Chinchero
- Lowest altitude: 2,040 meters above sea level in Aguas Calientes
- Route: Cusco – Chinchero – Moray – Maras – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
- Difficulty level: Easy to moderate
Day 02: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
We will start the most important day with a delicious breakfast in Aguas Calientes. Then we will walk to the bus station and ascend to Machu Picchu Sanctuary. The ride will take 20 minutes and offer spectacular mountain views.
At the entrance, our professional guide will wait for us. We will begin a guided tour of approximately two hours. During this visit, we will explore the Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Moon, and Temple of the Condor. We will also visit Inca workshops and learn about their engineering and spiritual beliefs.
After the guided tour, we will enjoy free time. We may walk through terraces, take photographs, or explore corners of the Inca citadel. Those who wish can also hike to viewpoints like the Inca Bridge or Sun Gate. Every step will connect us deeply with the legacy of the Incas.
We will then descend by bus to Aguas Calientes. Here, we may choose to relax in the town’s hot springs (optional). In the afternoon, we will board the train back to Ollantaytambo. From there, private transportation will take us to Cusco, where we will arrive in the evening.
Day 2 Statistics
- Distance traveled: 100 km by bus and train
- Highest altitude: 2,430 meters above sea level in Machu Picchu
- Lowest altitude:2,040 meters above sea level in Aguas Calientes
- Route: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
- Difficulty level: Moderate
Inclusions
The tour includes
- Pick up from your accommodation in Cusco
- Shared excursion through the Sacred Valley of the Incas (guide and transportation)
- Buffet lunch at Tunupa Restaurant, the top restaurant in the Sacred Valley
- Entrance ticket to the Salineras of Maras
- Tourist train PeruRail Expedition (Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo)
- One night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes
- One breakfast at the hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu Sanctuary
- Shared professional tour guide at Machu Picchu
- Round-trip bus tickets Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
- Shared transportation from Ollantaytambo train station to Cusco
The tour does not include
- Meals not mentioned in the program (dinners and lunches not specified)
- Hot springs entrance fee in Aguas Calientes (optional activity)
- Drinks, snacks, and personal expenses during the tour
- Travel insurance of any kind
- Tips for guides, drivers, and staff
Recommendations before taking the tour
Before starting your journey to the Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley tour, you need to know the following tips:
- Your original passport is required for entrance to Machu Picchu.
- If you are booking as a student, please ensure you bring your ID.
- You need A small backpack of 20-30 liters for daily items.
- Wear walking, trekking, or hiking boots.
- Bring a lightweight jacket or fleece to wear when it is cool.
- A hat or cap and sunglasses are useful.
- You may need a sunscreen and insect repellent to protect your skin from the sunlight.
- A reusable water bottle is crucial to reducing dehydration chances while walking.
- Medications and basic first aid are also vital, as you may visit some remote areas on this trip.
- Some basic light energy foods are good to keep in your bag in case you feel low in the mountains.
- Additional batteries/charger for your device if you want to keep using your phone everywhere.
- A camera or a phone for taking photos is absolutely great, as you may want to capture memories.
- Swimsuit and towel if you visit the hot springs at Aguas Calientes.
- Cash in Peruvian soles for personal expenses and tips.
FAQS:
1. How long does the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour last?
Two days, one night. Day one explores Sacred Valley sites. Day two, Machu Picchu. The rhythm of the schedule provides time to visit without rush.
2. What is the highest elevation on the Inca Jungle Trail?
If your tour includes the Inca Jungle Trail, its peak is Abra Málaga, some 4,350 meters (14,270 feet). It slopes downward from there to rainforests and warmer regions. Drink water, relax, and do it slowly if you travel through that section.
3. Do we need permits for Machu Picchu?
Yes. The government controls admission. Entrance fees, train or bus fare must be booked in advance. Good tour operators do it for you.
4. What is the accommodation like?
We stay in Aguas Calientes, in clean lodging or small hotels. Hot showers and private bathrooms are the norm in rooms. Wi-Fi is available in many places. Private or shared rooms are available, depending on group and preference.
5. Is rafting or zip‑lining safe or part of this tour?
These activities aren’t part of the standard 2-day tour. But some versions or upgrades include them. Where they’re available, they’re run by certified local suppliers.
6. What do we eat?
Breakfast is daily. Day one involves lunch in the Sacred Valley as part of a buffet. There is a first-night dinner. Meals are prepared using local ingredients.
7. How challenging is this tour?
It’s moderate. You’ll walk, do stairs, and cover uneven ground. But no extreme hiking or technical rope work. .
8. What should I really pack?
You need a passport and entry documents. For the trip, pack a good pair of walking shoes, warm and waterproof clothing, sun protection, etc.
9. Is travel insurance necessary?
Yes. It’s advisable to have protection against illness, trip cancellation, altitude issues, or unexpected delays.
10.When is the best time to take this tour?
April to October. These are drier months, clearer skies, safer trails. November to March is wetter, with possible rain. You’ll still see much, but bring waterproof clothes.
Organized by
Similar tours that may interest you
What our adventurers say
Best price guaranteed
The best prices guaranteed for your incredible adventure
Great customer service
All our lines available 24/7 for your attention
Fast and secure reservations
Reserva nuestros tours de forma segura , disponible 24/7