From Cusco: 2-Day Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour

Set out on a captivating 2-day journey from Cusco that unveils the wonders of Peru’s Sacred Valley and the iconic Machu Picchu. This all-inclusive tour offers convenience with hotel pick-ups, immersive experiences at local markets and ancient ruins, and the chance to witness the breathtaking grandeur of one of the world’s most remarkable archaeological sites. Whether you’re a history buff or a nature enthusiast, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure that’ll leave you yearning to uncover more of Peru’s cultural treasures.

Key Points

• Cusco hotel pick-up and transportation to the Sacred Valley, allowing travelers to enjoy the scenic journey.
• Exploration of the charming town of Pisac, including its vibrant market and ancient Inca ruins.
• Savoring an authentic Peruvian lunch in Urubamba, providing a chance to experience local flavors.
• Guided tour of the impressive Ollantaytambo archaeological complex, showcasing Inca architecture and strategic location.
• Train ride to Aguas Calientes, offering stunning views of the Urubamba River and Andes mountains, followed by hotel transfer for Machu Picchu exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Cusco Hotel Pick-up

The tour begins with a hotel pick-up in Cusco. Your guide will collect you from your accommodation at the scheduled time, ensuring a smooth start to your journey.

You’ll then travel together to the Sacred Valley, where your exploration of this stunning region begins. The pick-up service is included in the tour package, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the scenery as you’re transported to the first destination.

With the guide handling the logistics, you can focus on anticipating the excitement that lies ahead in the Sacred Valley and at Machu Picchu.

Exploring Pisac Town and Market

After the hotel pick-up in Cusco, the tour makes its first stop at the charming town of Pisac.

Visitors can explore the colorful Pisac market, renowned for its vibrant array of handicrafts and local products. Browse stalls selling traditional Andean ceramics, woven textiles, alpaca goods, and handcrafted jewelry. Haggle with friendly vendors for the best deals on unique souvenirs.

Explore the colorful Pisac market, renowned for its vibrant handicrafts and local products. Haggle with friendly vendors for unique souvenirs.

Beyond the market, the Pisac ruins offer archaeological sites to discover, including temples, terraces, and fortifications from the Inca empire.

This lively town provides an immersive introduction to the rich culture and artistry of the Sacred Valley.

Lunch in Urubamba

Following the tour of Pisac, the group heads to Urubamba for a delightful local lunch.

They’ll savor authentic Peruvian cuisine at a nearby restaurant, showcasing the region’s fresh, seasonal ingredients. The buffet-style lunch offers a variety of hearty dishes, from roasted meats and stews to vibrant salads and traditional starches.

It’s a chance to refuel and experience the local flavors before the next leg of the journey. Lunch provides a relaxing break, allowing the travelers to recharge and prepare for the exploration of the impressive Ollantaytambo archaeological site.

Ollantaytambo Archaeological Complex

Refreshed from the hearty lunch in Urubamba, the group moves on to explore the impressive Ollantaytambo archaeological complex.

This Inca fortress and town boasts temples, terraces, and warehouses that showcase the Inca’s architectural prowess. Visitors can wander through the maze-like streets and marvel at the intricate stonework.

The site’s strategic location overlooking the Urubamba River made it an important military stronghold. Travelers have the chance to climb the steep staircases and terraces, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

With its well-preserved ruins, Ollantaytambo provides a glimpse into the grandeur of the Inca Empire.

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Train Ride to Aguas Calientes

From Ollantaytambo, the group boards the train for the scenic journey to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu.

The train ride offers stunning views of the Urubamba River and the surrounding Andes mountains. The train is comfortable, with large panoramic windows allowing passengers to admire the breathtaking landscapes.

The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours, providing ample time to relax and prepare for the next day’s exploration of the ancient Inca citadel.

Upon arrival, the group will transfer to their hotel in Aguas Calientes, ready to embark on the final leg of their Machu Picchu adventure.

Ascent to Machu Picchu

How does the group ascend to the iconic Machu Picchu? From their hotel in Aguas Calientes, they’ll take a bus up the winding mountain road. The journey offers stunning vistas of the Urubamba River below.

After a 25-minute ride, they reach the entrance gate and begin the climb. Sturdy steps lead them through the historic stone structures, past ancient terraces and ceremonial plazas. The guided tour imparts the significance of this Inca citadel.

Throughout the visit, they can soak in the serene atmosphere and capture memorable photos. Finally, they’ll descend by bus, completing their journey to this remarkable archaeological wonder.

Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

Upon reaching Machu Picchu, the guided tour takes visitors through the awe-inspiring ruins.

A knowledgeable guide explains the site’s history, architecture, and significance. Visitors explore the terraces, staircases, and ceremonial enclosures that were once part of this ancient Inca city.

The guide points out the ingenuity of the Inca construction, showcasing the precisely fitted stone blocks and intricate engineering.

Visitors gain a deeper understanding of Machu Picchu’s role as a spiritual and administrative center of the Inca Empire.

The guided tour provides an immersive experience, leaving visitors with a profound appreciation for this remarkable archaeological wonder.

Return to Cusco

After the guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu ruins, travelers board the return train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.

The train ride takes approximately 1.5 hours as it winds through the scenic Urubamba Valley.

Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, travelers are transported by bus to their hotel in Cusco.

Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, travelers are transported by bus to their hotel in Cusco, a comfortable conclusion to their Machu Picchu journey.

The journey back provides a chance to reflect on the wonders of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.

With the tour complete, travelers can savor the memories of their immersive experience exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site and the rich cultural heritage of the Inca Empire.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Water/Snacks Available for Purchase During the Tour?

Water and snacks can be purchased during the tour, although options may be limited in certain areas. Bringing your own water and snacks is recommended to ensure you stay hydrated and fueled throughout the long days.

Can I Bring My Own Walking Stick or Hiking Pole?

Yes, you can bring your own walking stick or hiking pole. The tour recommends wearing comfortable walking shoes, as there is significant walking involved. Bringing your own walking aid can help you navigate the terrain.

Do I Need to Obtain a Visa to Participate in This Tour?

You generally don’t need a visa to participate in this tour if you’re a citizen of countries that have visa-free or visa-on-arrival agreements with Peru. However, it’s best to check your specific visa requirements before booking.

Is There an Option to Upgrade to a Private Tour?

Yes, there is an option to upgrade to a private tour. This allows for a more personalized experience with a dedicated guide and flexible scheduling. Upgrades can be booked when reserving the tour.

Can I Leave Any Luggage/Belongings in the Hotel While Touring?

Travelers can leave any extra luggage or belongings at their hotel while touring. The tour operators recommend packing light and keeping valuables secure during the excursion to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley.

The Sum Up

This 2-day tour from Cusco offers an immersive experience of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. Travelers will explore Pisac’s vibrant market, discover the impressive Ollantaytambo ruins, and marvel at the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. With convenient hotel pickup, delicious local cuisine, and scenic train transport, this tour provides an unforgettable glimpse into Peru’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: