The Cusco region of Peru is a captivating destination, and the 2-day guided tour from Cusco to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu offers an incredible opportunity to take in its rich history and stunning landscapes. From visiting the ancient Inca sites of Chinchero, Maras, and Moray to exploring the iconic ruins of Machu Picchu, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking an awe-inspiring experience, this guided journey through the heart of the Andes is sure to leave a lasting impression.

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Key Points

This 2-day guided tour from Cusco explores the Sacred Valley and visits the iconic Machu Picchu, with prices starting at €352.21 per person.
The tour includes visits to Chinchero, Maras Salt Mines, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Pisaq on the first day, followed by a guided tour of Machu Picchu on the second day.
The tour offers a small group option and includes transportation, entrance fees, and lunch on the first day, with the return to Cusco after lunch on the second day.
Advance booking is essential due to the limited daily access to Machu Picchu, and alternative tickets may be provided if booking within 30 days.
There are mixed reviews regarding communication and organization, particularly around lunch and transportation arrangements.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This 2-day guided tour from Cusco provides an immersive exploration of the Sacred Valley and the iconic Machu Picchu.

Priced from €352.21 per person, it offers a non-refundable cancellation policy. The tour includes Spanish and English-speaking guides, and a small group option is available.

Day 1 features visits to Chinchero, Maras Salt Mines, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Pisaq, followed by a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes.

On Day 2, you’ll take a bus to Machu Picchu for a 2-hour guided tour. The package includes all transportation, entrance fees, and lunch on the first day.

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Itinerary Details

The tour begins with a pickup from your accommodation in Cusco.

The tour commences with a pickup from your accommodation in Cusco.

You’ll then explore the Sacred Valley, visiting Chinchero, Maras Salt Mines, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Pisaq.

Enjoy a lunch in Urubamba before taking the scenic train to Aguas Calientes.

The afternoon is free, allowing you to visit the Butterfly farm or relax in the hot springs.

On day 2, a bus will take you to Machu Picchu for a 2-hour guided tour.

Afterward, you’ll return to Aguas Calientes for lunch and then back to Cusco.

Day 1 Highlights

What an exciting start to the tour! Guests are picked up from their Cusco accommodations and begin their journey into the Sacred Valley. First, they visit Chinchero, a traditional Andean village known for its colorful textiles. Next, they explore the unique Maras Salt Mines, where salt has been harvested for centuries. After, the group heads to the impressive agricultural terraces of Moray. Then, they stop at the Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo before ending the day in the picturesque town of Pisaq. Lunch is served in the town of Urubamba. To cap off the day, guests board the train to Aguas Calientes for an evening at leisure.

| Destination | Highlights |

|————-|————|

| Chinchero | Vibrant textiles |

| Maras Salt Mines | Historic salt production |

| Moray | Inca agricultural terraces |

| Ollantaytambo | Impressive Inca fortress |

| Pisaq | Charming Andean town |

Arrival in Aguas Calientes

After a day exploring the highlights of the Sacred Valley, guests arrive at the charming town of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

Nestled in a lush, verdant valley, Aguas Calientes offers a respite from the day’s adventures. Guests can stroll the town’s quaint streets, pop into local shops, or relax at one of the many cafes.

The train journey to Aguas Calientes is scenic, winding through the Andes with stunning vistas.

Once in town, guests have the afternoon free to unwind, perhaps visiting the Butterfly House or soaking in the natural hot springs before preparing for the next day’s Machu Picchu visit.

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Day 2 at Machu Picchu

On the second day, guests embark on an early bus journey from Aguas Calientes to the iconic Machu Picchu site.

Once there, they’ll enjoy a 2-hour guided tour, discovering the ancient wonder‘s highlights:

Guests embark on a 2-hour guided tour to discover the highlights of the iconic Machu Picchu site.

Exploring the well-preserved ruins, including the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana stone, and the Main Plaza.
Learning about the site’s fascinating history and the ingenuity of its Inca builders.
Taking in the breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Andes mountains, which frame the citadel’s dramatic setting.

After the tour, guests have free time to further wander the site on their own before returning to Aguas Calientes for lunch and the journey back to Cusco.

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Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes a comprehensive list of services and amenities to ensure a seamless experience.

It covers hotel pickup and drop-off, round-trip train and bus tickets, entrance fees to Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley attractions, a guided tour of Machu Picchu, and lunch on the first day.

Accommodation in Aguas Calientes is also included if selected.

However, lunch on the second day and any additional activities or expenses aren’t covered.

It’s important to note that access to Machu Picchu is limited, and early booking is recommended, especially during peak seasons.

Important Considerations

While the Cusco: Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour offers a comprehensive itinerary, there are several important considerations travelers should keep in mind.

Access to Machu Picchu is limited to just 5,000 tickets per day, so it’s crucial to book well in advance, especially during the high season from April to October.

Machu Picchu strictly limits daily admissions to 5,000 tickets, making advance booking essential during the peak travel season.

Plus, if booking within 30 days, full access may not be guaranteed, and an alternative ticket (Circuit 3) may be provided instead.

Lastly, children aged 3-17 are considered minors and receive discounted admission.

Machu Picchu has a strict daily ticket limit of 5,000
Book at least 2 months in advance to secure full access
Children aged 3-17 qualify for discounted admission

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Customers have provided a range of feedback on the Cusco: Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour. Based on 66 reviews, the tour has an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5.

Customers praised the knowledgeable guides, rating them 4.8 out of 5. However, the transportation received a slightly lower score of 4.1, and the value for money was rated 4 out of 5.

There were some mixed reviews regarding communication and organization, particularly around lunch arrangements and transport instructions.

Despite these minor issues, many customers enjoyed their experiences in the Sacred Valley and at Machu Picchu.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need Any Special Permits or Visas to Take This Tour?

The tour requires a valid passport, but no special permits or visas are needed. Participants should check their country’s entry requirements for Peru before booking the tour to ensure they have the necessary documentation.

Are There Any Age or Physical Fitness Requirements to Participate?

There are no age or physical fitness requirements, but the tour involves moderate walking and hiking. Visitors should be able to navigate uneven terrain. Children under 2 are free, and those 3-17 are considered children for the tour.

Can I Customize the Itinerary or Activities Based on My Preferences?

The tour allows some customization based on preferences. While the core itinerary is fixed, guests can often choose optional activities like visiting the Butterfly farm or hot springs in Aguas Calientes on the free afternoon.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy if I Need to Change My Plans?

There’s a non-refundable cancellation policy, so you can’t get a refund if you need to change your plans. But the tour operator may allow you to reschedule, though they’ll likely charge a fee to do so.

Is There an Option to Upgrade the Train or Accommodation for This Tour?

Yes, there are upgrade options for this tour. Travelers can choose to upgrade their train ticket to a more premium service or select an accommodation option in Aguas Calientes for an additional fee. These upgrades provide a more comfortable and enhanced experience.

The Sum Up

The 2-day guided tour from Cusco to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu provides an immersive journey into Peru’s rich heritage and stunning landscapes. With visits to iconic sites like Chinchero, Maras, and Machu Picchu, as well as a scenic train ride, this tour offers an unforgettable adventure. Priced at €352.21 per person, it’s a comprehensive experience that allows travelers to fully enjoy the cultural and natural wonders of this remarkable destination.