Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu 2-Day Tour

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Sacred Valley Machu Picchu 2 Days Tour Details

With XPLOR MACHUPICCHU, we will explore the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu on a thrilling two-day tour. We will travel through lush green Andean landscapes and ancient Inca paths. This journey will introduce us to rich history, breathtaking views, and cultural wonders.

We will begin early from Cusco, heading toward the famous Valley of the Incas. Our drive to Ollantaytambo will take around 90 minutes. Along the way, we will admire panoramic views of the Sacred Valley and the towering Machu Picchu mountains. From Ollantaytambo, we will take a scenic train ride to Km 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail.

The trail will guide us through cloud forests and past important archaeological sites like Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna. We will hike along ancient stone paths, reaching heights up to 2,650 meters above sea level. The route offers stunning mountain scenery and lush vegetation, perfect for nature lovers.

At Intipunku, the Sun Gate, we will witness our first unforgettable view of Machu Picchu. After a short descent, we will arrive in Aguas Calientes for a restful overnight stay at a comfortable hotel. This prepares us for the next day’s exploration.

On day two, we will catch an early bus to Machu Picchu. Our professional guide will lead us through the sacred citadel, explaining its history and architectural wonders. For those seeking an extra challenge, hiking Huayna Picchu Mountain will reward us with panoramic views of the ruins and valley.

After the visit, we will return to Aguas Calientes, take the train back to Ollantaytambo, and then drive to Cusco. This 2 Days Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour combines cultural immersion, moderate hiking, and stunning Andean scenery. It will leave us with unforgettable memories of Peru’s iconic heritage.

Summary Tour Day’s Statistics:

  • Total Distance: 12–15 km (7.5–9.3 miles)
  • Highest Altitude: 2,650 meters (8,690 feet) above sea level
  • Lowest Altitude: 2,040 meters (6,690 feet) above sea level
  • Route: Sacred Valley – Km 104 – Short Inca Trail – Machu Picchu
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate on day one, easy on day two

 

Price Includes

  • Round-trip transportation from Cusco to the Sacred Valley and train station.
  • Train tickets for both directions: Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and back.
  • One-night accommodation in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes, including breakfast.
  • Professional bilingual guide for the Machu Picchu tour.
  • Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu archaeological site.
  • Buffet lunch on Day 1 in the Sacred Valley and breakfast at the hotel on Day 2.
  • 24/7 customer support to assist during the entire tour.

Price Excludes

  • Entrance tickets to archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley (e.g., Pisac, Ollantaytambo) are not included.
  • Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico) for multiple regional sites is not included and must be purchased separately.
  • Meals not listed in the inclusions, such as lunches and dinners beyond Day 1 buffet and Day 2 breakfast, are excluded.
  • Special hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain require separate tickets and additional fees.
  • Travel insurance is not included and should be arranged independently before the tour.
  • Tips and gratuities for guides and staff are not included and are left to traveler discretion.
  • Personal expenses like snacks, drinks, souvenirs, and other incidentals are excluded.
  • Any optional activities beyond the planned itinerary will incur extra costs.

Recommended To Carry

  • Valid passport for Machu Picchu entry and train travel.
  • Tour tickets and booking confirmations, including any extra hike permits.
  • Comfortable, sturdy walking or hiking shoes for uneven terrain.
  • Layered clothing for varying temperatures—warm and cool options.
  • Waterproof jacket or rain poncho, especially from November to March.
  • Sunglasses, high SPF sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection.
  • Refillable water bottle to stay hydrated during hikes.
  • Energy snacks like bars, nuts, or fruit for quick fuel.
  • Camera with extra batteries and memory cards to capture memories.
  • Personal medication and a basic first aid kit.
  • Insect repellent to prevent bug bites in humid areas.
  • Cash for meals, souvenirs, and tips.
  • Daypack to carry essentials comfortably throughout the day.
  • Flashlight or headlamp for early mornings or low-light areas.
  • Chargers or power bank to keep devices powered.
  • Hand sanitizer and face masks as needed for health safety.
  • Travel-sized toiletries and wet wipes for freshness on the go.
  • Lightweight quick-drying towel for sweat or unexpected rain.
  • Copy of travel insurance policy for emergencies.
  • Reusable bags to organize purchases and belongings.

Itinerary

Day 1Cusco – Pisac – Urubamba – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

We will start early with a hotel pickup in Cusco. Our vehicle will take us into the Sacred Valley of the Incas, located at 2,790 meters above sea level. This fertile valley offers stunning views of Andean mountains, lush fields, and the winding Urubamba River. After about 45 minutes, we will reach Pisac, a lively town known for its artisan market. We will stroll through stalls filled with colorful textiles, jewelry, and ceramics, enjoying the vibrant local culture.

Around midday, we will continue to Urubamba, the capital of the Sacred Valley, where a buffet lunch awaits us. The meal will include a variety of traditional Peruvian dishes, such as ceviche and vegetarian options, highlighting local flavors. After lunch, our journey continues to Ollantaytambo, a living Inca town that preserves its original urban design. We will explore the archaeological site, admiring the Sun Temple and extensive terraces built by Pachacutec, which rise majestically against the mountain backdrop.

In the late afternoon, we will board a scenic train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. This approximately 1 hour and 45-minute ride will take us through spectacular views of the Urubamba River and subtropical cloud forest. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, located at 2,040 meters above sea level, a representative will escort us to a comfortable hotel with private bathrooms and hot water. You will have free time to explore the town, visit artisan markets, or relax in the nearby hot springs (entrance not included). In the evening, our guide will meet us to review plans for Machu Picchu the next day.

Day 1 Highlights:

  • Exploring Pisac’s artisan market
  • Buffet lunch in Urubamba with authentic Peruvian cuisine
  • Visiting Ollantaytambo’s archaeological ruins
  • Scenic train journey to Aguas Calientes

Day 1 Statistics:

  • Distance traveled: Approximately 110 km by vehicle and train
  • Duration: About 10-11 hours (7:00 AM to 6:00 PM)
  • Highest altitude: 2,790 meters above sea level in the Sacred Valley
  • Lowest altitude: 2,040 meters above sea level in Aguas Calientes
  • Difficulty: Easy, with light walking in Pisac and Ollantaytambo
  • Meals included: Buffet lunch
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes

Day 2Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

We will begin the day early with breakfast at our hotel, preparing for the highlight: Machu Picchu. At 6:00 AM, a bus will take us on a 25-minute ride up to the Inca citadel, situated at 2,430 meters above sea level. We will arrive as the morning sun bathes the ruins in golden light, creating a magical atmosphere. A professional guide will lead us on a two-hour tour, revealing secrets of the Sun Temple, Main Plaza, and ancient Inca houses, and sharing stories of Inca history and culture.

After the guided visit, we will have free time to explore Machu Picchu on our own. We can choose to hike to the Sun Gate, a moderate 1-hour round trip with panoramic views of the entire citadel. Alternatively, we may relax within the stone walls, soaking in the peaceful surroundings. For the more adventurous, optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain offer breathtaking views but require advance booking and extra tickets.

At midday, we will return by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you may enjoy lunch at local restaurants offering Peruvian and international dishes (lunch not included). Afterwards, a scenic train ride will take us back to Ollantaytambo, retracing the path along the Urubamba Valley. From Ollantaytambo, a vehicle will transfer us back to Cusco, arriving around 7:00 PM at our hotels or Plaza Regocijo near Cusco’s Main Square. This completes our unforgettable two-day Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour.

Day 2 Highlights:

  • Two-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu
  • Free time for hiking the Sun Gate or relaxing in the citadel
  • Scenic train ride back through the Sacred Valley
  • Comfortable vehicle transfer to Cusco

Day 2 Statistics:

  • Distance: Variable, depending on exploration (light walking); ~110 km return trip
  • Duration: 12-13 hours (5:30 AM to 7:00 PM)
  • Maximum altitude: 2,430 meters above sea level at Machu Picchu
  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate, with light walking and optional hikes
  • Meals included: Breakfast

Photos

2 Sacred Valley Machu Picchu
Gallery

FAQs About the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour

1Are the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu the same?

No, they are different but connected. The Sacred Valley is a vast area with multiple Inca sites like Pisac and Ollantaytambo. Machu Picchu is a singular, iconic Inca citadel higher in the mountains.

2How many days should we spend in the Sacred Valley, Peru?

At least 2 days are recommended to explore key sites and enjoy the landscape. Combining it with Machu Picchu usually takes 2 to 3 days total.

3How can we visit the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu?

A popular option is a 2-day tour: day one in the Sacred Valley with an overnight in Aguas Calientes; day two visiting Machu Picchu. Longer tours allow deeper exploration.

4When is the best time to visit the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu?

The dry season from May to September offers stable weather and clear skies. Rainy season (November to March) is quieter but trails can be slippery.

5How should we prepare for the 2-day Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour?

Arrive in Cusco 1-2 days early to acclimatize. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Carry water, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and a small backpack. Rain gear is advisable in rainy months.

6When should we book the tour?

Book 2-3 months in advance, especially during peak season (May–September), due to limited Machu Picchu tickets and train seats. Passport is required for booking.

7What should we bring in our backpack for the tour?

Bring your passport, water (1 L), sunscreen, insect repellent, hat, sunglasses, comfortable clothing, non-slip shoes, camera, and cash for meals or souvenirs. Rain poncho if traveling in rainy season.

8Can we leave extra luggage during the tour?

Yes, store extra luggage at your Cusco hotel. Only carry essentials in a small backpack. Hotels in Aguas Calientes can store belongings during Machu Picchu visits.

9What type of accommodation is included in Aguas Calientes?

 One night in a comfortable hotel with private bathroom and hot water. Hotels are near the train station and restaurants. Upgrades are available on request.

10Is travel insurance necessary for the tour?

It’s not mandatory but highly recommended to cover medical emergencies and trip cancellations, especially due to high altitudes and travel conditions.

11Can we customize the tour or add extra activities?

Yes, private tours and extra hikes like Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are available. Extra hikes require advance booking and separate tickets.

12What can we do in Aguas Calientes during free time?

Relax in hot springs (entry not included), visit artisan markets for souvenirs, or enjoy local and international cuisine at town restaurants.

3 Reviews
Sort By:RatingDate

Amelia A.

Solo Traveller

Our 2-day tour was seamless and well-organized.
The hotel in Aguas Calientes was very comfortable and perfectly located. The guide’s stories about Inca history at Machu Picchu made the visit truly unforgettable. We appreciated the balanced itinerary, allowing time for exploration and relaxation. This tour is perfect for first-time visitors to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu!

May 6, 2025

Lucas A.

Solo Traveller

We felt safe and well cared for throughout the entire trip.
The transport was comfortable, and the buffet lunch in Urubamba was delicious. Hiking the Inca sites and seeing Machu Picchu at sunrise was magical. The guide was friendly and very informative, answering all our questions. This 2 Day Tour Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu delivered everything we hoped for and more!

April 15, 2025

John B.

Group Traveller

I recently had the pleasure of experiencing the Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Tour with Xplor Machu Picchu. It was an absolutely unforgettable journey. From the ancient ruins in the Sacred Valley to the awe-inspiring beauty of Machu Picchu, every moment was a treasure. The expertise of the Xplor Machu Picchu team made the trip seamless and informative. I can’t recommend this tour enough. Thanks to Xplor Machu Picchu for making my Peruvian adventure extraordinary!

October 25, 2023