2-Day Tour:Sacred Valley and Machupicchu from Cuzco

A Two-Day Adventure from Cusco to Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu

Setting out on a journey from Cusco to explore Machu Picchu and the surrounding Sacred Valley is a quintessential Peruvian experience. This 2-day tour, priced at $590 per person, offers a carefully curated mix of breathtaking landscapes, ancient archaeological sites, and local culture. Guided by knowledgeable professionals, you’ll visit bustling markets, impressive Inca ruins, and finally, the iconic Machu Picchu itself. The tour includes all train and entrance tickets, making it a seamless experience.

Two aspects we particularly appreciate are the train trip on PeruRail, which offers spectacular views of the landscape, and the chance to see Ollantaytambo, still inhabited by descendants of the Incas. On the flip side, an early start and a packed schedule might not suit everyone, especially those who prefer a more relaxed pace. Still, if you’re eager to cover a lot of ground in limited time, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive experience with expert guides and well-organized logistics, all wrapped into a manageable two days.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Price: The tour includes train tickets, entrance fees, and guided visits, providing excellent value.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides make history and culture come alive with stories and insights.
• Stunning Scenery: Expect picturesque views of the Sacred Valley, agricultural terraces, and the iconic Machu Picchu.
• Authentic Local Experiences: Visits to markets, salt mines, and traditional villages add genuine cultural flavor.
• Comfort and Convenience: Round-trip transportation from Cusco, hotel overnight stay, and coordinated timing make the trip smooth.
• Time Efficiency: The tour packs a lot into two days, ideal for travelers with limited time.

In-Depth Review of the 2-Day Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour

Starting Point: From Cusco to Sacred Valley

The adventure begins early, usually around 7:30 AM, with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco. This is a smart move, as it allows you to maximize your time and avoid the rush of travel logistics. The journey into the Sacred Valley is a scenic highlight—think rolling hills, terraced fields, and the distant silhouette of mountains. This is where you’ll get your first glimpses of the landscapes that defined Inca civilization.

Day 1: Exploring the Sacred Valley’s Hidden Gems

The Sacred Valley is often called the “breadbasket” of the Incas, and your stops reflect its agricultural importance. The first major stop is Chinchero, a lively market town where locals still sell textiles and ceramics. The visit to the colonial church and the community tour gives a chance to see how traditions are preserved today.

Next, you’ll visit Moray, famous for its concentric agricultural terraces. These terraces weren’t just for farming; they were Inca experimental labs—ingenious systems for microclimates and crop cultivation. Guides often share fascinating stories about how the Incas used Moray to develop crops suited for different elevations.

A visit to Maras Salt Mines follows. These salt pans, still exploited by local families, have a mesmerizing mosaic of thousands of small, shallow pools fed by natural mineral springs. From a practical perspective, seeing salt production here is more engaging than a simple sightseeing stop; it’s a living tradition.

Lunch in Urubamba typically features a buffet with local flavors, giving you a taste of authentic Peruvian cuisine. It’s a good break, both physically and culturally, before heading to Ollantaytambo, one of the most impressive Inca archaeological sites still inhabited today. Walking through the town feels like stepping back in time—descendants of the Incas live in the original stone houses, and the fortress offers stunning views of the valley.

In the late afternoon, you board the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. The train ride, included in the package, is a real treat. The PeruRail service provides panoramic windows, giving you sweeping views of lush valleys, rushing rivers, and cloud-covered mountains. This is one of those moments where the journey becomes part of the experience, not just transportation.

Day 2: The Magnificence of Machu Picchu

Waking up early in Aguas Calientes, you’ll have breakfast before heading to the Machu Picchu entrance. The bus ride up the mountain takes about 30 minutes, and it’s well worth the early start to beat some of the crowds.

Your guide will lead a two-hour tour of the site, highlighting key structures like the Intihuatana stone, the Main Plaza, and the Temple of the Sun. The guide’s insights help you understand the purpose and ingenuity behind each stone and layout, transforming a stunning ruin into a tangible piece of history.

After the guided tour, you’ll have some free time to explore on your own. Whether you want to take photos, wander to less-visited spots, or just soak in the incredible views, this part is flexible.

Descending back to Aguas Calientes, you’ll board the train for the return trip, arriving in Cusco around 6:30 PM. The entire day is packed, but the highlights—the awe of Machu Picchu and the scenic train journey—make it worthwhile.

What Travelers Say

The reviews highlight consistent praise for Ulises, the guide, who is described as “fab” and “giving the history and stories in a way that made everything come alive.” Another traveler mentions feeling “cared for, safe, and in the know,” emphasizing the importance of a knowledgeable guide and smooth organization—key for a complex trip like this.

Many reviewers appreciate the stunning views along the train route and the well-planned itinerary that hits all the major sites without feeling overly rushed. The inclusion of all tickets is seen as a big value, removing the hassle of separate bookings.

A Few Considerations

While most reviewers rave about the experience, some note the early start and tight schedule might not suit those seeking a more relaxed pace. The lunch not included in the package, at an additional cost of around $20 USD, could be a minor hassle if you prefer to eat at your own pace or want to try local eateries outside the organized stops.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu without the stress of organizing tickets and transportation. If you’re eager to see the major highlights in a short time and appreciate detailed storytelling from guides, this is a great choice. It’s also suitable for those comfortable with early mornings and a busy schedule.

If you prefer a slower pace, or want to spend more time exploring each site at your leisure, you might consider a more flexible or extended program. But for a well-organized, value-packed introduction to these iconic sites, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour offers an excellent balance of cultural insight, scenic beauty, and convenience. The inclusion of expert guides, all entrance and train tickets, and authentic local experiences make this a smart choice for first-time visitors or those short on time.

The tour’s packed schedule ensures you’ll see the major highlights—from the terraces of Moray to the awe-inspiring ruins of Machu Picchu—while the guided commentary helps you truly appreciate the significance of each site. The train ride provides unforgettable views that make the journey as memorable as the destination.

While early mornings and a tight itinerary might not suit everyone, travelers who value organized logistics and rich storytelling will find this an enriching adventure. It’s especially perfect for those wanting to maximize their time and get a deep, authentic introduction to Peruvian culture and history in just two days.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup from your Cusco hotel is included, making it easy to start your adventure without worrying about transportation.

What’s the cost of lunch?
Lunch is not included in the tour price but typically costs around $20 USD if you choose to buy it at Urubamba or other stops.

Are entrance tickets included?
Yes, all relevant tickets for Sacred Valley sites and Machu Picchu are included, so you won’t need to worry about additional costs or last-minute bookings.

How long is the train ride?
The train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and back is part of the experience—timed to maximize scenic views. The journey is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours each way.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the early start and walking involved at sites if you are traveling with young children or have mobility concerns.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, as the tour is popular and the number of participants is limited. Booking ahead guarantees your spot and the best experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, and an optional small backpack for your belongings.

Can I explore Machu Picchu on my own after the guided tour?
Yes, you’ll have free time to explore on your own before returning, giving you a chance to soak in the atmosphere or take additional photos.

This trip offers a balanced blend of history, scenery, and culture, making it a fantastic way to experience Peru’s most famous sites without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. Perfect for those who want a reliable, well-organized introduction to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, with plenty of authentic moments along the way.