Cusco, the former Inca capital, beckons travelers with its captivating blend of ancient history and natural wonder. Exploring the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, the jewel of the Andes, promises an unforgettable 2-day adventure. From the vibrant Chinchero and Maras Salt Mines to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, this all-inclusive tour offers a seamless way to uncover the region’s hidden gems. With limited access to the iconic site, securing your spot early is key to unlock an experience that will leave you truly breathless.

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Key Points

This 2-day all-inclusive tour explores the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, with hotel pickup, round-trip train/bus tickets, and guided tours.
The tour includes visits to Chinchero, Maras Salt Mines, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Pisaq, with a lunch provided in Urubamba.
Afternoon free time in Aguas Calientes to explore options like the Butterfly farm or hot springs.
Day two includes a bus ride to Machu Picchu for a 2-hour guided tour, with separate admission tickets required for Machu Picchu and Mountain Machu Picchu.
Advance booking is recommended due to limited daily access to Machu Picchu, and the tour may not be suitable for those with a fear of heights or low fitness levels.

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Tour Overview and Pricing

This 2-day tour offers an all-inclusive experience exploring the Sacred Valley and visiting the iconic Machu Picchu.

Priced from $461 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, round-trip train and bus tickets, entrance fees, and a guided tour.

Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance. A "reserve now, pay later" option is available.

With limited Machu Picchu access, it’s recommended to book at least 2 months in advance, especially during peak season.

Special pricing is offered for foreign undergraduate students with valid ID.

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Itinerary Details

The tour begins with a pickup from your accommodation in Cusco, kicking off the exploration of the Sacred Valley.

Your exploration of the Sacred Valley begins with a pickup from your Cusco accommodation, kicking off your adventure.

You’ll visit Chinchero, Maras Salt Mines, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Pisaq.

After a lunch in Urubamba, you’ll take a train transfer to Aguas Calientes, where you can spend the afternoon exploring options like the Butterfly farm or hot springs.

On day two, you’ll take a bus to Machu Picchu for a 2-hour guided tour, then have the chance to climb Mountain Machu Picchu for stunning views.

After lunch, you’ll return to Cusco.

Day 1: Exploring the Sacred Valley

After being picked up from their accommodation in Cusco, travelers embark on an exploration of the Sacred Valley.

They visit the village of Chinchero, famous for its Inca ruins and colorful local markets. Next, they witness the remarkable Maras salt mines, where salt has been harvested for centuries.

Continuing on, they discover the archaeological site of Moray, known for its unique circular terraces. Ollantaytambo, a well-preserved Inca town, and the bustling market of Pisaq are also on the itinerary.

Lunch is provided in the town of Urubamba before travelers take a train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

Lunch in Urubamba

After touring the sacred sites in the morning, the group convenes for a nourishing lunch in the town of Urubamba. The restaurant offers a variety of local and international cuisine, catering to diverse dietary preferences.

| Menu Item | Price (USD) |

| — | — |

| Lomo Saltado (Stir-fried Beef) | $12 |

| Quinoa Salad | $9 |

| Trout Fillet | $14 |

| Vegetarian Plate | $11 |

Diners savor the flavors of the Andes while enjoying the scenic views of the surrounding mountains. The leisurely lunch provides a much-needed break before the train journey to Aguas Calientes and the exploration of Machu Picchu.

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Train Transfer to Aguas Calientes

Following the hearty lunch in Urubamba, the group boards the train for the scenic journey to Aguas Calientes, the town nestled at the base of Machu Picchu.

The train weaves through the Andes, offering breathtaking views of the rugged landscape.

Upon arrival, guests have the afternoon free to explore Aguas Calientes. Visitors can stroll through the charming town, visit the Butterfly House, or soak in the natural hot springs.

This relaxing time in Aguas Calientes allows everyone to recharge before the much-anticipated visit to Machu Picchu the next day.

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Day 2: Machu Picchu and Mountain Machu Picchu

On the second day, guests board the bus for the short ride from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of Machu Picchu.

They’re greeted by a 2-hour guided tour of the iconic Inca citadel. Afterward, guests can climb to the top of Mountain Machu Picchu for stunning panoramic views.

Lunch is on their own in Aguas Calientes before the return journey to Cusco.

This tour offers access to both Machu Picchu and the mountain, providing a comprehensive Machu Picchu experience.

Guests should wear sturdy hiking shoes and be prepared for steep trails and high altitudes.

Inclusions

This 2-day tour includes several key elements to provide a comprehensive Machu Picchu experience. The package includes round-trip hotel pickup and drop-off, all necessary train and bus transfers, and admission tickets to Machu Picchu, Mountain Machu Picchu, and the sites in the Sacred Valley. Lunch on Day 1 is also provided. Plus, a professional tour guide accompanies the group throughout the tour.

| Inclusions | Day 1 | Day 2 |

| — | — | — |

| Entrance Tickets | Sacred Valley Sites | Machu Picchu, Mountain Machu Picchu |

| Transportation | Hotel Pickup, Train, Bus | Bus (Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu) |

| Meals | Lunch in Urubamba | – |

The convenience of having all logistics pre-arranged allows travelers to fully enjoy the wonders of Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley.

Important Information and Recommendations

Visitors should be aware that access to Machu Picchu is limited to 5,000 tickets per day, so it’s recommended to book at least 2 months in advance, especially for travel during the peak season from April to October.

It’s also important to differentiate between the Machu Picchu Inca citadel and the Mountain Machu Picchu, as they’ve separate admission tickets.

Children aged 0-2 are free, while those 3-17 require a ticket. Foreign undergraduate students can take advantage of special pricing with a valid ID.

Travelers should bring hiking shoes, insect repellent, and cash, and the tour may not be suitable for those with fear of heights or low fitness levels.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Combine This Tour With Other Cusco Attractions?

Yes, this 2-day tour can be combined with other Cusco attractions. Tour operators offer flexible scheduling to allow visitors to customize their itinerary and explore additional sights around Cusco before or after the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu portions.

Is It Possible to Visit Machu Picchu on the Same Day?

No, it’s not possible to visit Machu Picchu on the same day. The tour itinerary includes an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, which is necessary to visit Machu Picchu early the next morning. Rushing the visit isn’t recommended.

What Are the Additional Costs for Upgrading the Train Ticket?

The tour includes the regular tourist train ticket. To upgrade to the Vistadome or Hiram Bingham train, there’s an additional cost of around $50-$150 per person, depending on the train class chosen.

Is a Porter Service Available to Carry Luggage?

The tour does not include porter service to carry luggage. Guests are responsible for carrying their own bags during the tour. Porters may be available for hire at an additional cost, but this is not part of the standard tour package.

Can I Adjust the Itinerary to Spend More Time at Specific Sites?

Yes, the tour’s itinerary can be flexible. Travelers can spend more time at specific sites in the Sacred Valley on Day 1 by coordinating with the tour guide. This customized experience can be arranged prior to the tour.

The Sum Up

Discover the captivating wonders of Cusco and Machu Picchu on this comprehensive 2-day tour. With an early booking, you’ll secure your spot to experience the breathtaking Sacred Valley, savor a delightful lunch, and explore the iconic Machu Picchu. This all-inclusive package provides a seamless and unforgettable adventure, making it a must-consider option for your Peruvian journey.