With our Tour to Sacred Valley of the Incas & Machu Picchu in 2-Day, you’ll embark on an unforgettable journey to discover Machu Picchu. Starting from Cusco, you’ll explore some of the most important archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley, Pisaq and Ollantaytambo, two important destinations in Peru.
SUMMARY
With our Tour to Sacred Valley of the Incas & Machu Picchu in 2-Day, you’ll embark on an unforgettable journey to discover Machu Picchu. Starting from Cusco, you’ll explore some of the most important archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley, Pisaq and Ollantaytambo, two important destinations in Peru.
Pisac, a 15th-century Inca citadel nestled in the mountains, renowned for its impressive agricultural terraces, and the fortress of Ollantaytambo, the legendary "living Inca city," located 76 km from Cusco. This charming town is not only a fascinating archaeological site but also the gateway to Machu Picchu and the perfect connection point to continue your journey to the Inca wonder.
Our tour is designed for you to enjoy at a relaxed pace, with an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, giving you the comfort and time needed to fully explore Machu Picchu on your second day. Additionally, you’ll have the option to add a hike to one of the famous mountains: Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, making your experience even more spectacular.
Make the most of every moment with this perfect journey through the best of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu!
Optional Activities for Your Tour
Huayna Picchu Mountain (requires an additional ticket): 2,693 m altitude
First shift: 7:00 am
Second shift: 9:00 am
Machu Picchu Mountain (requires an additional ticket): 3,082 m altitude
First shift: 6:00 am
Second shift: 8:00 am
ITINERARY
Sacred Valley Tour
Estimated Schedule: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Meals: Buffet lunch included
Your adventure begins with a hotel pick-up at 8:00 AM, followed by a journey to the breathtaking Sacred Valley of the Incas. Our first stop is the Pisac archaeological site, famous for its impressive agricultural terraces and meticulously built palaces atop the mountain. You’ll enjoy stunning views and have the chance to take unforgettable photos before heading down to the colonial town of Pisac, where you can buy water, snacks, or souvenirs.
Next, we continue to Urubamba, a charming town where you'll enjoy a delicious buffet lunch. After lunch, we proceed to the Ollantaytambo fortress, an awe-inspiring site featuring massive granite stone structures, temples, and terraces.
After exploring the Sacred Valley, we head to the Ollantaytambo train station, where you'll board a train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town), according to your scheduled departure. Upon arrival in Machu Picchu Pueblo, you will be transferred to your hotel, where you can rest and prepare for the next day’s exciting visit to Machu Picchu.
Train Schedules from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu Pueblo
Peru Rail Expedition: 7:00 PM (1h 45min journey)
Peru Rail Vistadome Observatory: 3:37 PM (1h 45min journey)
Inca Rail Voyager Service: 4:36 PM (1h 45min journey)
Machu Picchu Tour
Entry Hours: 6:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Meals: Breakfast included
After breakfast at the hotel, we will board the bus to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival at this legendary Inca city, we will begin a guided tour with an expert guide who will share fascinating insights into the history and significance of Machu Picchu. You will explore stunning viewpoints, scenic trails, and important religious and ceremonial sites, all offering breathtaking panoramic views—perfect for capturing amazing photos.
Once the guided tour concludes, we will return by bus to Machu Picchu Pueblo, where you’ll have free time for lunch and to explore the town before boarding your return train to Cusco or the Sacred Valley, according to your schedule.
Estimated distances
Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo: 45 km / 1 hr 45 min by train
Ollantaytambo – Cusco: 76 km / 1 hr 30 min by car
Machu Picchu – Poroy: 94 km / 3 hrs 15 min by train
Poroy – Cusco: 18 km / 30 min by car
Train Schedules for the Return Journey from Machu Picchu to Ollantaytambo
Peru Rail Expedition: 15:20, 18:20 hrs
Inca Rail Voyager: 14:30, 19:00 hrs
Peru Rail Vistadome + Observatory Car: 16:22 hrs
Peru Rail Vistadome Regular Service: 15:20, 16:22 hrs
Inca Rail 360° Panoramic: 16:12 hrs
Optional Hikes (Require an Additional Ticket)
If you’re interested in hiking to the Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain during this 2-day tour, please note that these hikes require good physical condition. The trails are steep and include narrow staircases, some of which are exposed to heights, making them challenging for those with vertigo. However, for those up to the challenge, these hikes offer incredible views and an unforgettable experience.
Huayna Picchu Mountain ("Young Mountain") – 2,693 m (8,835 ft)
Located north of Machu Picchu, this mountain features a steep trail with stone steps. Along the way, you’ll see ancient agricultural terraces and Inca constructions perfectly integrated into the mountainside. From the summit, you'll get a spectacular panoramic view of Machu Picchu, reinforcing its astronomical and religious significance.
Huayna Picchu Mountain (requires an additional ticket): 2,693 m altitude
First shift: 7:00 am
Second shift: 9:00 am
Reservations must be made well in advance, as spaces are limited and must align with your Machu Picchu entry time.
Machu Picchu Mountain ("Old Mountain") – 3,082 m (10,111 ft)
Located south of the Machu Picchu citadel, this mountain offers a wider but more gradual trail, making it a less steep but longer hike compared to Huayna Picchu. The hike requires good physical condition, as you will ascend 600 meters (1,970 ft) along a combination of gentle slopes and stone steps.
From the summit, you will have an impressive 360° view, not only of Machu Picchu but also of the Salkantay mountain range and sections of the Inca Trail.
First shift: 6:00 am
Second shift: 8:00 am
Reservations must be made well in advance to ensure availability and alignment with your Machu Picchu visit time.
INCLUDED SERVICES
Guide and transport for Sacred Valley Tour
Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
1-night accommodation in a selected hotel in Aguas Calientes
Breakfast at the hotel
1 buffet lunch in the Sacred Valley of the Incas
Round-trip tourist train (Expedition or Voyager service; panoramic service available upon request)
Round-trip bus tickets to and from Machu Picchu
NOT INCLUDED (Available Upon Request)
Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
Tourist ticket for the Sacred Valley (can be purchased during the visit)
Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain entrance tickets (available upon request)
Accommodation in Cusco
Additional personal expenses not mentioned in the program
What Should You Bring for Your Trip?
During our 2-day Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Tour, you will experience a variety of climates, so we recommend bringing the following:
General Items:
Passport or identification document
Comfortable walking shoes
Lightweight backpack for personal belongings
Cell phone/Camera
Personal snacks
Personal medications
Mosquito repellent
For Cold or Rainy Weather:
Warm clothing
Waterproof jacket/Rain poncho
For Sunny Weather:
Sunscreen
Sunglasses with UV protection
Long-sleeve shirts or blouses (recommended)
Hat or cap
RECOMMENDATIONS
This tour is highly recommended for travelers with limited time in Cusco who want to make the most of their days by exploring the best of Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley.
Weather: Cusco has two well-defined seasons—rainy season (November to March) and dry season (April to September), with February being the rainiest month.
Book in advance: Machu Picchu entrance tickets are limited, especially for optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. Reservations should be made at least three months in advance.
Altitude acclimatization: This trip is ideal for adjusting to the altitude, as Machu Picchu is located in a cloud forest at over 2,000 meters (6,500 ft) in Aguas Calientes and 2,400 meters (7,800 ft) at the archaeological site.
Flexible starting and ending points: This tour can begin or end in the Sacred Valley, depending on your hotel location. We will plan everything to ensure you have a seamless experience.
Luggage storage: Extra suitcases can be stored at your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley. We recommend bringing only the essentials for your overnight stay in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town).
Aguas Calientes amenities: You will find various hotels, restaurants, and entertainment options in Aguas Calientes.
Year-round availability: Unlike other tours, this experience can be done at any time of the year. However, extra precautions should be taken during the rainy season (November to April).
Suitable for all ages: This tour is ideal for both children and older adults, as it involves minimal physical difficulty.
PRICES
We can customize your trip according to your preferences, and costs may vary based on hotel category and train service selection. Please note that the prices listed are based on double occupancy.
| TIPO DE HOTEL | COSTO POR PERSONA | |
| Hotel a presupuesto: | $ 325 USD | |
| Hotel 3 estrellas: | $ 335 USD | |
| Hotel 4 estrellas: | $ 385 USD | |
| Hotel 5 estrellas: | $ 485 USD |
Upgrade to the Vistadome panoramic train or Inca Rail 360° train for an additional $35 USD per route.
Upgrade to Vistadome with an observatory car for an additional $58 USD per route.
Ask us about the different train options available
