Cusco: Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu 2-Day Tour

Exploring the ancient wonders of Peru’s Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu is a dream for many travelers. This 2-day tour from Cusco offers an opportunity to take in the Inca’s captivating history and breathtaking landscapes. From the vibrant markets of Pisac to the impressive Fortress of Ollantaytambo, the journey unveils the region’s rich cultural heritage. But the real highlight awaits on day two, as you ascend to the iconic Machu Picchu citadel for a guided tour of this incredible archaeological site. Prepare to be awestruck by the sheer scale and intricacy of this ancient wonder.

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Key Points

A 2-day tour of Cusco, including visits to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, with hotel pickup/drop-off, meals, transportation, and entrance fees included.
On Day 1, explore the ancient Inca town of Pisac, its artisan market, and the Fortress of Ollantaytambo, with a buffet lunch in Urubamba.
Overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, followed by an early morning ascent to Machu Picchu on Day 2 for a guided tour of the citadel.
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or heart problems.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and a pay later option is available, with the tour starting at €444.74 per person.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This 2-day Cusco: Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour offers an immersive experience exploring the rich history and cultural heritage of the region.

Priced from €444.74 per person, the tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, a buffet lunch, round-trip train and bus tickets, and entrance fees to all sites.

Guests can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. The tour is led by a live guide in Spanish and English.

However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or heart problems. Participants should come prepared with comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate attire.

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Itinerary Details

On the first day, the tour begins with hotel pick-up, followed by a visit to the ancient Inca town of Pisac.

Guests will explore the artisan market and archaeological site with terraces. After a buffet lunch in Urubamba, the tour continues to the Fortress of Ollantaytambo, a living Inca city.

Guests will explore the Pisac artisan market and archaeological site before visiting the Fortress of Ollantaytambo, a living Inca city.

From there, guests will take a train ride to Aguas Calientes for an overnight stay.

On the second day, the group will make an early ascent to Machu Picchu to witness the sunrise, followed by a guided tour of the iconic Inca citadel.

The tour then returns to Cusco via train and bus.

Day 1: Exploring the Sacred Valley

The tour begins with a visit to the ancient Inca town of Pisac. Guests will explore the vibrant artisan market and discover the remarkable Inca archaeological site with its stunning terraces.

Next, they’ll enjoy a delicious buffet lunch in Urubamba.

The tour then takes them to the Fortress of Ollantaytambo, a living Inca city where they can:

Wander the narrow streets and visit the iconic Inca ruins.
Admire the impressive stone architecture and engineering.
Gain insights into the daily life of the Inca people.
Catch a train to Aguas Calientes for an overnight stay.

Visiting Pisac

As visitors arrive at Pisac, they’re immediately immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of the artisan market.

Rows of stalls offer a stunning array of handcrafted textiles, ceramics, jewelry, and more. The ancient Inca archaeological site looms above, its terraced walls and fortifications a testament to the region’s rich history.

Guests explore the ruins, marveling at the impressive engineering and panoramic views. The tour then moves on to Urubamba, where a delicious buffet lunch is served, providing the energy needed for the next leg of the journey.

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Lunch in Urubamba

After exploring the vibrant Pisac market and archaeological site, the tour group arrives at Urubamba for a delicious buffet lunch.

The spread includes a variety of local and international dishes, catering to different dietary preferences:

Hearty Andean stews and soups
Grilled meats and fish with regional seasonings
Freshly baked breads and variety of rice dishes
Colorful salads and a selection of Peruvian potatoes

The buffet offers a chance to sample the rich flavors of Peruvian cuisine while enjoying the scenic mountain views surrounding the area.

Refueled, the group prepares to continue their journey to the ancient fortress of Ollantaytambo.

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Fortress of Ollantaytambo

Fortified by the hearty lunch, the tour group sets off to explore the Fortress of Ollantaytambo, an impressive Inca archaeological site that was once a thriving urban center.

They wander through the serene stone streets, surrounded by towering walls and stone terraces. The guide explains the site’s strategic military purpose, with its steep stairways and multiple defensive positions.

Visitors marvel at the massive carved stone blocks, pondering how the Incas moved and fitted them so precisely without modern tools.

The tour provides a fascinating glimpse into the engineering prowess and urban planning of this living Inca city.

Train to Aguas Calientes

The tour group boards the train for the scenic ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu.

The journey is approximately 1.5 hours long, offering stunning views of the Andes mountains.

The journey from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes takes approximately 1.5 hours, providing stunning vistas of the majestic Andes mountains.

Here are 4 things to expect on the train ride:

Comfortable seating and large windows for optimal sightseeing.
Snacks and beverages available for purchase on board.
Assistance from the train staff to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Arrival at the Aguas Calientes train station, the starting point for the journey to Machu Picchu.

Day 2: Discovering Machu Picchu

Bright and early the next morning, the group embarks on the ascent to Machu Picchu, eager to witness the iconic Incan citadel at sunrise. After a bus ride, they arrive at the entrance, ready to explore. A guided tour brings the ruins to life, as the guide explains the site’s history and significance. The group marvels at the intricate stonework, terraced gardens, and panoramic vistas. Following the tour, they have free time to wander and capture photos before descending back to Aguas Calientes for the return journey.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Start Time | Early morning |

| Duration | Approx. 2 hours |

| Guided Tour | Yes, in English and Spanish |

| Highlights | Sunrise, Incan architecture, panoramic views |

| Return to Aguas Calientes | Afternoon |

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food to the Tour?

The tour includes a buffet lunch, but you’re welcome to bring your own snacks and water. Just be mindful of the local environment and avoid leaving any litter behind.

Is There an Option to Stay in Cusco Instead of Aguas Calientes?

No, this tour doesn’t offer an option to stay in Cusco instead of Aguas Calientes. The itinerary includes an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes as part of the visit to Machu Picchu on the second day.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Exploring Machu Picchu?

The tour includes a guided tour of Machu Picchu lasting approximately 2 hours. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the ancient ruins and learn about their history and significance from a knowledgeable guide.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Required for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a minimum group size requirement. It’s a private tour, so you can book it for yourself or a small group. The price is per person regardless of the group size.

Can I Pay in Local Currency Instead of Euros?

Yes, you can pay in local currency instead of euros. The tour operator accepts payment in the local currency to provide more flexibility for participants. However, the price will be quoted in euros on the tour overview.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Cusco: Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour offers a captivating glimpse into Peru’s rich cultural heritage. Enjoy the historic sites of the Sacred Valley, then witness the awe-inspiring grandeur of Machu Picchu, one of the world’s most iconic archaeological wonders. With convenient transportation, meals, and entrance fees included, it’s an excellent value for an unforgettable Peruvian adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: