Cusco: Tour to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu in Two Days

Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, is a captivating destination that beckons travelers to uncover its rich cultural heritage. This two-day tour to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu offers a chance to take in the region’s stunning landscapes and ancient wonders. From the vibrant town of Chinchero to the iconic Inca citadel, this adventure promises an unforgettable exploration of Peru’s most renowned sites. With a carefully curated itinerary and insightful guidance, this tour invites you to delve deeper into the heart of the Andes.

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Key Points

Two-day tour exploring the Sacred Valley’s highlights, including Chinchero, Moray, and Maras, followed by a guided visit to the iconic Machu Picchu.
Priced at $395 per person, with a maximum group size of 15, the tour includes transportation, entry fees, and a professional guide.
On the first day, visitors will learn about Andean textile traditions, explore Inca agricultural terraces, and witness salt extraction at Maras.
The second day features a guided tour of Machu Picchu, followed by free time in Aguas Calientes and return transportation to Cusco.
The tour offers a comprehensive experience of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, providing an immersive cultural and historical exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This two-day tour offers a comprehensive experience exploring the Sacred Valley and the iconic Machu Picchu.

For $395 per person, you’ll join a small group (max 15) and journey through the region’s highlights.

The first day takes you to Chinchero, Moray, and Maras, where you’ll learn about Andean culture and marvel at ancient sites.

Explore Andean culture and ancient sites at Chinchero, Moray, and Maras on the first day of this comprehensive Machu Picchu tour.

On day two, you’ll visit Machu Picchu with a guided tour.

The tour includes transportation, entry fees, and a professional guide.

With free cancellation and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour makes it easy to tick Machu Picchu off your bucket list.

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Day 1 Itinerary

The tour begins with pickup from hotels in Cusco’s city center.

First, visitors explore the Inca town of Chinchero, learning about traditional Andean textile-making.

Next, they’re off to Moray, an Inca agricultural experiment station with circular terraces.

Then, it’s on to Maras, where they’ll see the impressive 4,000+ salt extraction pools.

After an Andean buffet lunch in Urubamba, they tour the Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo.

Finally, they travel by tourist train from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu Pueblo, where they’ll spend the night.

Visiting Chinchero

Visitors start their journey at the picturesque town of Chinchero, nestled high in the Andes.

They’ll learn about the age-old Andean textile traditions, with demonstrations on natural dyeing and weaving techniques.

The archaeological site in Chinchero provides a glimpse into the region’s rich history, with impressive Inca ruins and colonial architecture.

Travelers can explore the colorful local market, browse handicrafts, and gain a deeper understanding of the vibrant Quechua culture.

Immerse in the vibrant Quechua culture by exploring the colorful local market and browsing its captivating handicrafts.

This immersive cultural experience sets the tone for the rest of the journey through the Sacred Valley.

Exploring Moray

After visiting the vibrant town of Chinchero, the tour continues to the remarkable site of Moray. Moray is an ancient Inca agricultural experimental site, featuring a series of concentric circular terraces descending into a central depression. Visitors can explore these unique terraces, contemplating the ingenious design and purpose behind this intriguing archaeological site.

| Feature | Description |

| ——- | ———– |

| Terraces | Concentric circular depressions |

| Purpose | Inca agricultural experimental center |

| Depth | Central depression reaches over 100 feet |

| Climate | Microclimates at different terrace levels |

| Explore | Walk the terraces and imagine Inca agriculture |

The tour then heads to the nearby Maras salt pools, another fascinating Inca legacy.

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Discovering Maras

From the ancient terraces of Moray, the tour next heads to the nearby Maras salt pools, another fascinating Inca legacy.

Over 4,000 salt pans dot the hillside, dating back to pre-Inca times. Visitors learn how the locals harvest the precious mineral, a vital resource for centuries.

The scenic drive offers stunning views of the Sacred Valley. At Maras, the group explores the intricate network of salt ponds, each maintained by local families.

It’s a glimpse into a centuries-old tradition that continues to this day, providing a sustainable livelihood for the Andean community.

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Day 2 Itinerary

What does the second day of the tour have in store?

First, guests start the day with breakfast at their hotel in Machu Picchu Pueblo.

Then, they’ll take a bus up to the entrance of the iconic Machu Picchu. A professional guide leads them on a 2-hour tour of the remarkable ruins.

Afterwards, guests have free time to explore Aguas Calientes on their own.

Finally, they’ll take the train back to Ollantaytambo and share transportation to return to Cusco.

Throughout the day, the tour provides all necessary transportation, entrance tickets, and 24-hour assistance.

Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

During the guided tour of Machu Picchu, the professional guide leads guests through the remarkable Inca ruins for approximately two hours. Visitors learn about the history, architecture, and purpose of the key structures, such as the Intihuatana, the Temple of the Sun, and the Main Plaza. The guide encourages questions and provides insights into daily life in the citadel. Guests are often awestruck by the scale, engineering, and preservation of the site.

| What to Expect | Duration |

| — | — |

| Guided Tour | 2 hours |

| Free Time | Varies |

The guided tour is followed by free time for guests to explore Machu Picchu on their own, take photos, and visit the on-site museum.

Included Services and Additional Information

The tour package includes a comprehensive set of services to ensure a seamless and enriching experience. These include hotel pickup, guided tours, transportation, meals, and 24-hour assistance.

Additional considerations include:

Bring essential items like passport, camera, and insect repellent.
The tour isn’t suitable for individuals over 95 years old.
Reservations should be made at least two months in advance due to ticket availability.
Drones are prohibited on the tour.
Some costs, such as meals and partial tourist tickets, aren’t included in the package price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Purchase Optional Upgrades or Add-Ons to the Tour?

Yes, you can purchase optional upgrades or add-ons for the tour. These may include upgraded train service, private transportation, or additional activities like a hike to the Sun Gate at Machu Picchu. Just ask the tour operator about available options.

What Is the Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Tour?

The tour recommends comfortable, layered clothing suitable for hiking and variable mountain weather. Bring sturdy walking shoes, a lightweight rain jacket, and sun protection like a hat and sunscreen. Dressing in layers allows you to adjust based on the day’s conditions.

Are There Any Physical Requirements or Restrictions for Participants?

The tour isn’t suitable for individuals over 95 years old. Participants should be able to handle moderate physical activity like walking and climbing stairs. Those with mobility issues may need to consider alternative tour options.

How Can I Arrange for Private Transportation or a Private Tour Guide?

To arrange for private transportation or a private guide, you’ll need to contact the tour operator directly. They can customize the tour to your needs, which may include a private vehicle and dedicated guide for an added fee.

Do I Need to Obtain Any Special Permits or Tickets for This Tour?

For this tour, you’ll need to obtain the Machu Picchu entrance ticket and the partial tourist ticket. The tour operator can handle these, but you’ll need to reserve well in advance due to limited ticket availability.

The Sum Up

This two-day Cusco tour offers a captivating blend of Andean culture, stunning landscapes, and the iconic Machu Picchu. Explore vibrant Chinchero, the intriguing Moray terraces, and the historic Maras salt ponds on day one, then learn about the legendary Machu Picchu on day two. At just $395 per person, it’s an unforgettable opportunity to discover the rich heritage of Peru’s Sacred Valley.

You can check availability for your dates here: