Discover the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu in 2 Days

2 days (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English and 1 more

This 2-day tour is perfect for travelers who want to make the most of their time in the Cusco region by visiting both the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. In just two days, you’ll explore key Inca sites such as Chinchero, Moray, and the Maras Salt Mines, while also enjoying local culture, traditional Andean techniques, and stunning landscapes.

After a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes and an overnight stay, the adventure culminates with a guided visit to the majestic Machu Picchu Sanctuary. This well-balanced itinerary combines cultural discovery, history, and natural beauty, ideal for those seeking a complete and unforgettable Inca experience without rushing.

What's Included

Hotel pick-up in Cusco
Round-trip PeruRail Expedition tourist train
Lunch
One night hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes
Breakfast at the hotel in Aguas Calientes
English-speaking professional guide throughout the trip
Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco to the Sacred Valley and Ollantaytambo train station
Shared guided tour of Machu Picchu with a certified English-speaking guide
Buffet lunch at Tunupa Restaurant
Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu Sanctuary
Shared transportation from Ollantaytambo train station to Cusco
Round-trip bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu
Entrance ticket to the Maras Salt Mines (Salineras de Maras)
Meals not mentioned in the program (such as dinners and unspecified lunches)
Optional entrance fee to Aguas Calientes hot springs.
Drinks, snacks, and personal expenses during the tour
Travel insurance of any kind
Tips for guides, drivers, and staff(optional)

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

Our guide will confirm your exact pickup time and location the day before the tour. Please be ready at the hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup to avoid any delays. If you are staying outside the main city area, pickup may occur slightly earlier.

Itinerary

Duration: 2 days (approximately)
    Day 1

    Cusco – Chinchero – Moray – Maras Salt Mines – Aguas Calientes

    4 stops
  • 1
    Cusco

    Our adventure through the Sacred Valley and toward Machu Picchu begins early in the morning with hotel pick-up between 6:30 and 7:00 AM. As we leave Cusco, we drive through the majestic Andes, passing scenic valleys carved by rivers. Our first stop is the town of Chinchero, a place where ancient traditions are still alive. Here, we visit a cultural center where we learn how locals dye alpaca and llama wool using natural methods. It’s a great opportunity to observe Andean customs that have been preserved through generations.

    2 hours Admission ticket free
  • 2

    We continue our journey to Moray, home to fascinating circular terraces built by the Incas. These structures were used as agricultural laboratories, with each level creating a different microclimate. This impressive engineering allowed them to experiment with crops from various ecological zones, a true testament to Inca agricultural science. Next, we head to the Maras Salt Mines, where thousands of salt pools glisten on the mountainside. These salt pans have been used since pre-Inca times and are still active today. Walking along the narrow paths, we take in the geometric beauty of the site and learn about the ancient salt production methods and trade.

    2 hours Admission ticket included
  • 3
    Urubamba

    In the afternoon, we enjoy a delicious buffet lunch in Urubamba, a town nestled in the heart of the Sacred Valley. Afterwards, we drive to the impressive Ollantaytambo fortress, a remarkable example of Inca military architecture. We explore its well-preserved temples and terraces, soaking in both the history and the views.

    2 hours Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Aguas Calientes

    To end the day, we go to the Ollantaytambo train station and board a train to Aguas Calientes. The train ride is scenic, offering views of lush valleys, flowing rivers, and the edge of the cloud forest. We arrive in Aguas Calientes in the evening, where we rest and prepare for the next day's highlight, our visit to Machu Picchu.

    4 hours Admission ticket free
  • Day 2

    Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

    3 stops
  • 5
    Aguas Calientes

    We begin the most anticipated day of the trip with a hearty breakfast in Aguas Calientes. Once ready, we walk to the bus station and take a 20-minute ride up the mountain to the entrance of the Machu Picchu Sanctuary, enjoying breathtaking views along the way.

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • 6
    Machu Picchu

    At the entrance, we meet our professional guide, who will lead us on a 2-hour guided tour of the site. We’ll explore iconic locations such as the Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Moon, and the Temple of the Condor. Along the way, we’ll learn about the Incas’ impressive engineering, architectural skills, and spiritual worldview. After the guided portion, we’ll have free time to explore Machu Picchu at our own pace. This is the perfect moment to wander through the terraces, take stunning photos, or discover hidden corners of the citadel on our own. For those seeking more adventure, optional hikes to viewpoints like the Inca Bridge or the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) are available. These short treks provide incredible panoramic views and a deeper connection with the sacred surroundings of the Andes.

    3 hours Admission ticket included
  • 7
    Cusco

    When ready, we take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes. There, we may choose to relax in the town’s natural hot springs (optional) or spend time browsing local shops and cafés. In the afternoon, we board the train back to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, private transport will be waiting to take us to Cusco, where we’ll return in the evening, completing a magical journey through the heart of the Inca world.

    5 hours Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Go Xplore Peru

Tags

Overnight Tours
Multi-day Tours
Bus Tours
Historical Tours
Rail Tours
Additional fees
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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