Exploring the 2 Days Best Machupicchu Tour – A Fully Guided Private Experience

Imagine waking up in Cusco and knowing that in just two days, you’ll be walking through ancient Inca sites, tasting authentic Andean cuisine, and standing amidst the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu. For $499 per person, this private guided tour offers a well-rounded way to experience Peru’s most iconic sights—comfortably and at a pace suited to you. Led by knowledgeable local guides, you’ll travel in private transport, stay overnight in a cozy 3-star hotel, and enjoy a carefully curated itinerary that balances cultural insight with spectacular scenery.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the private guides bring stories and history to life, making each stop not just a photo op but an educational experience. Second, the inclusion of a night in Chinchero and a visit to the Sacred Valley means you’ll get a deeper understanding of Andean traditions beyond the usual tourist trail.
A possible consideration is that the tour’s price reflects a more personalized experience, which might mean fewer travelers to share the journey with. If you’re looking for a small-group or budget adventure, this might be less suited since it emphasizes a private, intimate experience.
This tour suits travelers who want a detailed, flexible exploration of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu without sacrificing comfort or local insights. If you prefer guided experiences that tell stories rather than just check boxes, this tour could be your perfect fit.
Key Points

- Private Guided Experience: You’ll benefit from personalized attention and expert storytelling from your guide.
- Comfort & Convenience: Hotel stay, breakfast, and round-trip transfers make logistics easy.
- Authentic Cultural Stops: Visit Chinchero, see traditional weaving, and explore the Sacred Valley’s scenery.
- Flexible Pacing: Travel at your own speed, with opportunities for quiet reflection or lively discussion.
- Spectacular Views: From Inca ruins to snow-capped mountains and waterfalls, the scenery is unforgettable.
- Value for Money: All major sites, transportation, and lodging are included, offering a hassle-free way to see major highlights.
Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Cusco
The Full Experience: What to Expect on the 2-Day Machu Picchu Tour

This tour is thoughtfully designed to give you a comprehensive taste of the Sacred Valley, Inca sites, and of course, Machu Picchu itself. We’ll break down each day in detail, so you can visualize the journey and understand its true value.
Day 1: Connecting with the Sacred Valley and Inca Heritage
Your adventure begins with a pick-up from your Cusco hotel, where a private guide and vehicle await. The first stop is Chinchero, a small Andean village famous for its well-preserved Inca walls and colonial church. Here, your guide will point out the impressive Inca architecture and introduce you to the art of Andean weaving, a tradition that predates the Incas and continues strongly today. If you’re lucky, your guide may share stories behind the textiles, which are often woven with symbols of spiritual meaning.
One of the highlights in Chinchero is exploring the main square and seeing the altars aligned to the four directions—an example of Inca cosmology still visible today. Many travelers appreciate these stops for their authenticity, often describing the experience as “not very visited yet,” so you’ll feel like you’re discovering a secret.
Next, you’ll head to the Sacred Valley, a lush corridor flanked by snow-capped peaks like Veronica (5832 meters). As you descend on a stone-paved Inca trail, expect stunning views of terraces, mountains, and perhaps some wild flora and fauna. Your guide will highlight the significance of the landscape and history behind the sites you pass.
A detour to Poc Poc waterfalls offers a refreshing break—perfect for photos or just soaking in the natural beauty. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch at Don Angel Restaurant, which many find to be a highlight for its scenic setting and local flavors, even though it’s not included in the tour price.
Later in the afternoon, you’ll visit Chinchero’s Rainbow Mountain viewpoint for a sunset viewing. This is a quieter, less crowded moment to appreciate the vibrant colors of the region and reflect on the day before heading to your hotel for the night.
Day 2: The Magnificence of Machu Picchu
Your second day kicks off early with a private transfer to Ollantaytambo, where you’ll board a scenic train ride to Machu Picchu town. The train journey is about 1 hour and 45 minutes, offering incredible views of the landscape—expect to see lush valleys, rushing rivers, and distant mountains.
Once you arrive at Machu Picchu, your guide will take you on a comprehensive 2-3 hour tour. This isn’t just a stroll through ruins; it’s a chance to understand the history, architecture, and myths that surround this legendary site. Your guide will point out hidden corners, suggest the best viewpoints for photos, and share stories about what made Machu Picchu a sacred place for the Incas.
Many travelers, including those who’ve left reviews, emphasize the guide’s expertise. One noted, “John met us the night before our tour to go over the itinerary and answer questions,” highlighting the personalized touch that sets this experience apart. The guide’s insights make the stones and terraces come alive, transforming a bucket-list destination into an engaging storybook.
After exploring, you’ll enjoy a delightful lunch (included or optional), giving you time to savor the moment before heading back. The train ride back to Ollantaytambo offers even more spectacular views, and your private transport will return you comfortably to Cusco.
Why Choose This Tour?

This 2-day experience strikes a balance between guided expertise, cultural depth, and scenic beauty. The private guide ensures you’ll get personalized stories and attention, making each stop more meaningful. The overnight in Chinchero adds a layer of authenticity, allowing you to see local life and customs that larger group tours often miss.
The inclusion of all major transportation, entrance fees, and a hotel stay means you don’t have to worry about logistics—just focus on enjoying the sights and sounds. Plus, the small group (maximum 8 travelers) keeps the experience intimate, allowing for more interaction and flexibility.
Many reviews underscore the value of knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery. One traveler called it “the best part of our trip to Peru,” suggesting that this tour truly elevates the typical Machu Picchu experience.
While in Cusco, here are other experiences we've covered
- From Cusco: 2-Day Lake Titicaca, Uros, and Taquile Islands
- 2 day tour: Sacred Valley Vip + Rainbow Mountain ATVs
- From Cusco: 2 days Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
- From Cusco: Route of the Sun 2D-1N/Uros and Taquile Islands
- 2 Days: Hike to Ausangate + Rainbow Mountain private tour
- Round trip Cusco: Route of the sun + 2D in Puno with hotel
Practical Tips
- The tour is suitable for most travelers, as it involves a moderate amount of walking and some early mornings.
- The hotel in Chinchero is described as a 3-star, ensuring decent comfort without luxury prices.
- Remember, the price covers almost everything, but meals at other sites aren’t included—bringing snacks or extra drinks might be wise.
Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who loves storytelling and learning about the places you visit, this guided tour offers a wealth of insights. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate comfort and personalized attention, and who want to see the key sites without feeling rushed. It’s also a good pick for those interested in authentic Andean culture, as the stops in Chinchero and the Sacred Valley provide that special connection.
However, if you prefer a more independent or budget-friendly experience, this might feel a little too curated for your taste. Still, for those who want a structured, well-organized, and insightful journey, this tour offers excellent value.
Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers the hotel stay in Chinchero, breakfast, private transportation, guided tours, train tickets to Machu Picchu, entrance tickets to Machu Picchu, water bottles, trekking poles, and support from a travel concierge.
Are meals included?
Breakfast is included every morning. Lunch during Day 2 is included, but other meals, such as dinner or additional snacks, are not included and are at your discretion.
How long is the train ride to Machu Picchu?
The train from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu town lasts about 1 hour and 45 minutes, with scenic views along the way.
Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Most travelers can participate, but some walking is involved, especially at Machu Picchu and during the Sacred Valley stop. The tour is designed to be flexible, but people with mobility issues should consider this.
What kind of accommodation is included?
You’ll stay in a 3-star hotel at Chinchero, which offers comfortable, basic amenities, perfect for resting after busy days exploring.
Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private guided experience, your guide can adapt the pace and focus on your interests within the itinerary, making it more tailored to your preferences.
What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, and a camera are recommended. If you have special dietary needs, communicate them in advance.
Final Thoughts

This 2-day private tour offers a carefully curated visit to some of Peru’s most treasured sites, with the added bonus of personalized guidance and comfortable accommodations. It’s well-suited for travelers eager to deepen their understanding of Inca culture and enjoy stunning landscapes without the rush of large group tours.
For those who value expert storytelling, scenic beauty, and authentic cultural encounters, this tour delivers a meaningful experience that’s both educational and awe-inspiring. It’s especially ideal if you prefer to travel with a small group or want the flexibility of a private guide, making your Peru adventure truly memorable.
Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply eager to see Machu Picchu in a relaxed and well-organized way, this tour meets those needs with style and substance.
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