2-Day Tour: Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu by Train

Explore the stunning landscapes and ancient wonders of Peru with this 2-day tour package. Discover the Sacred Valley’s cultural highlights, from traditional textiles to bustling markets. Then, witness the iconic Machu Picchu during a guided tour, learning about its remarkable history and architecture. This immersive journey combines scenic train rides, expert-led experiences, and the opportunity to learn about Peru’s captivating heritage. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave you eager to…

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Key Points

Comprehensive 2-day tour exploring the Sacred Valley and iconic Machu Picchu, with transportation, accommodation, and admission fees included.
Visits cultural and historical sites such as Awana Kancha, Pisac, and Ollantaytambo on the first day.
Scenic train journey from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, the base for Machu Picchu.
Guided 4-hour tour of the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu on the second day.
Based in Cusco, Peru with over 1,000 positive reviews and a 96% recommendation rate.

Tour Overview

This 2-day tour offers travelers the opportunity to explore the Sacred Valley and marvel at the iconic Machu Picchu.

Based in Cusco, Peru, the tour has received over 1,000 positive reviews, with 96% of participants recommending it.

Priced starting at $469 per person, the 2-day excursion has a maximum group size of 10 and is accessible to wheelchair users and those with strollers, though with limited access in certain areas.

Priced from $469 per person, the 2-day tour accommodates up to 10 guests, including wheelchair users and those with strollers, though with limited access in certain areas.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, round-trip train tickets, and admission to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley sites, providing a comprehensive Andean adventure.

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Day 1: Sacred Valley Exploration

On the first day, travelers embark on an exploration of the Sacred Valley.

The tour stops at Awana Kancha, where they learn about Peruvian textiles. Next, they visit Taray and Pisac, taking in Incan agricultural methods and bartering at the Pisac Market.

After exploring Urubamba, they head to the Archaeological Park Ollantaytambo, the last Incan stronghold before the Spanish conquest.

Highlights include immersing in local culture and history.

The day concludes with a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

Stops Along the Way

The tour begins with a stop at Awana Kancha, where travelers learn about the traditional Peruvian textiles and the importance of alpaca, llama, and vicuña in local culture.

Next, they visit Taray, a small town offering scenic views of the Sacred Valley.

Taray, a small town offering scenic views of the Sacred Valley.

The tour then heads to Pisac, exploring its ancient Incan ruins and browsing the vibrant market.

After lunch in Urubamba, the group visits the impressive Archaeological Park Ollantaytambo before boarding the train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

Throughout the day, travelers enjoy the Incan history and culture of the Sacred Valley.

Highlights of Day 1

The first highlight of Day 1 is the visit to Awana Kancha, where travelers get an up-close look at the traditional Peruvian textiles and the importance of alpacas, llamas, and vicuñas in the local culture.

Next, they stop at Taray, a charming village known for its agricultural practices.

The group then explores the historic town of Pisac, browsing the vibrant market and learning about Incan history.

After lunch in Urubamba, they visit the impressive Ollantaytambo archaeological site, the last functioning Inca town.

Throughout the day, travelers enjoy Peru’s rich cultural heritage.

Train to Aguas Calientes

After exploring the ancient sites of the Sacred Valley, travelers then board the train for the scenic journey to Aguas Calientes.

The train ride offers several benefits:

Breathtaking views of the Andes mountains and lush countryside.
A comfortable and efficient mode of transportation to reach the town at the base of Machu Picchu.
A chance to relax and prepare for the next day’s Machu Picchu visit.

The train trip sets the stage for the grand finale of the two-day tour – the iconic Inca citadel itself.

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Day 2: Machu Picchu Visit

After the scenic train journey, the second day of the tour focuses on the main highlight – a guided exploration of the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

Travelers embark on a 4-hour guided tour, learning about the rich history and architecture of this ancient wonder. They’ll have the opportunity to freely explore the site, taking in the stunning vistas and seeing the site’s mystique.

Following the tour, guests enjoy free time for lunch in Aguas Calientes before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo and driving to Cusco, completing their Machu Picchu adventure.

Included and Excluded

This 2-day tour of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu includes a variety of services and amenities to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

The tour includes:

Breakfast
1 night’s accommodation at a 3-star hotel
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Round-trip train tickets
Admission to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley

However, the tour excludes international and domestic airfare, the optional Wayna Picchu ticket, and any additional expenses not explicitly mentioned.

Travelers are advised to bring a small backpack or carry-on suitcase, as checked baggage incurs extra fees.

Traveler Experiences

Travelers have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback about this 2-day tour, praising the knowledgeable and friendly guides.

Highlights include learning about Incan history and culture, comfortable train journeys, and scenic hotel locations.

However, there have been some mixed experiences with the tour operator’s responsiveness after the tour, and the basic hotel conditions have resulted in a few issues for some travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

You can bring your own food and drinks on the tour, but the tour operator recommends purchasing any meals or snacks from the provided options during the scheduled stops. Bringing your own is allowed, but not necessarily encouraged.

Is There an Option to Upgrade the Train Class?

Yes, there’s an option to upgrade the train class. The tour offers different train service levels, so travelers can choose a higher class for a more comfortable journey to and from Machu Picchu.

How Much Time Is Allotted for Free Exploration at Machu Picchu?

The tour includes a 4-hour guided exploration of Machu Picchu, followed by free time for independent exploration. Travelers can use this time to further discover the Incan citadel at their own pace.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour information doesn’t mention any discounts for students or seniors. However, some tour operators may offer age-based discounts, so it’s best to inquire directly with the tour provider about any special pricing options.

Can I Leave My Luggage at the Hotel During the Machu Picchu Visit?

Yes, travelers can typically leave their luggage at the hotel during the Machu Picchu visit. Check with your tour operator, as they’ll often provide storage options or recommendations to ensure your belongings are secure while you explore the site.

The Sum Up

This 2-day tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into Peru’s cultural and natural wonders. Guests will explore the Sacred Valley, marvel at the iconic Machu Picchu, and enjoy a scenic train ride, all while learning about the region’s rich history. Whether a first-time or seasoned traveler, this tour provides an unforgettable experience of Peru’s breathtaking landscapes and ancient heritage.