Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley 2 day tour

Experience the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu in Two Days with Latitudes

This 2-day tour covers some of Peru’s most iconic sites: the Sacred Valley, with visits to Pisac and Ollantaytambo, and of course, the majestic Machu Picchu. Starting from Cusco, the tour costs around $355 per person and offers a lively mix of history, culture, and nature. You’ll visit bustling markets, explore ancient ruins, enjoy a traditional lunch, and take scenic train rides—all wrapped in a small-group setting, which means more personalized attention and fewer crowds.

One thing we really appreciate is how this tour balances guided insights with free time, giving you space to soak in the atmosphere. The second highlight? The guided tour of Machu Picchu itself, led by knowledgeable guides who bring the site’s story to life—and the views, well, they’re simply unforgettable.

A potential consideration? The tour doesn’t include some expenses like hotel nights in Aguas Calientes, the bus to Machu Picchu, or entrance fees, so you’ll want to budget accordingly.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a mix of structured sightseeing and flexibility, especially those eager to see key Inca sites without a four-day trek. If you’re comfortable with a busy schedule and want to maximize your time and photos, this tour could be perfect.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 2-day itinerary covering Sacred Valley sites and Machu Picchu.
• Small group size (up to 8 participants) for personalized attention.
• Includes train rides and guided tours, providing expert insights and stunning scenery.
• Focus on authentic experiences, with visits to local markets and a traditional lunch.
• Some costs not included, such as hotels and Machu Picchu bus tickets.
• Ideal for travelers seeking a well-rounded, immersive visit in a manageable timeframe.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour

When we think about visiting Peru, few experiences match the magic of standing on ancient Inca terraces, gazing at the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes, or walking through the mysterious stone streets of Machu Picchu. This 2-day tour from Cusco is designed to give you a taste of all that, without the fuss of planning each step yourself.

Day 1: Exploring Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo

The adventure begins early—your guide will pick you up from your Cusco hotel between 7:00 and 7:30 am in a comfortable minibus. From the outset, you’re in good hands, with a small group limited to just 8 travelers, ensuring your questions are heard and your experience feels personal.

The first highlight: Pisac, a charming town famous for its bustling traditional market and impressive archaeological complex. You’ll wander through stalls bursting with handcrafted textiles, jewelry, and local goods, a feast for the senses. Your guide will help you navigate the market and explain the significance of the local craft traditions, which brings the experience to life.

Next, you’ll visit the Archaeological Complex of Pisac. Here, your guide provides historical context about the site’s purpose as a religious and agricultural center. You’ll have some free time to explore the terraces and stone structures at your own pace—an ideal chance to capture photos or simply soak in the scenery.

By midday, it’s time for a hearty lunch in Urubamba, often regarded as the culinary heart of the Sacred Valley. The tour’s chosen restaurant offers authentic Peruvian dishes, giving you a true taste of local flavors. This is a great opportunity to relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings before the afternoon’s exploration.

In the afternoon, your route takes you to Ollantaytambo, a town that feels like a living Inca archaeological site. The fortress here is striking, with enormous stone terraces and ancient water channels. Your guide will illuminate the complex history behind the site, including its strategic role in Incan defense.

After the visit, you’ll have free time in Ollantaytambo until your train departs for Aguas Calientes. The town’s cobblestone streets and local vibe make it a pleasant spot to wander. Your guide will inform you about train schedules and where to meet for the next day’s journey.

Day 2: Machu Picchu — The Lost City of the Incas

The second day starts early with a scenic train ride along the Vilcanota River valley. The train offers spectacular views of lush mountains and terraced hillsides, setting the stage for your visit to Machu Picchu. The train options are Voyager or Expedition, providing comfortable and panoramic travel.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, you’ll transfer to your accommodation, where you’ll have some free time to explore the small town, grab a quick bite, or relax before the afternoon excursion.

The highlight: a guided tour of Machu Picchu, led by an expert guide. For around two hours, you’ll walk through the ancient stones, learning about their purpose, construction techniques, and the site’s significance. Guides like Samuel, praised in reviews for their engaging explanations, help you see the site not just as a set of ruins but as a place alive with history.

After the guided tour, you can stay longer on your own—climb a few more terraces, take photos, or just sit quietly amid the ruins’ mysterious atmosphere. Then, you’ll descend by bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch and the return train journey to Ollantaytambo. A minibus will transfer you back to Cusco, arriving around 9:00 pm.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour covers key parts of the journey—guided tours in Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Machu Picchu, lunch in Urubamba, and round-trip train tickets. The small group setting enhances the experience, with personalized attention and fewer crowds.

However, it’s important to note what’s not included: hotel accommodations in Aguas Calientes, bus tickets Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, and entry tickets for certain sites outside the primary Machu Picchu entrance. Also, dinners on the first day and lunch on the second day are separate expenses.

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The Real Value and Considerations

Considering the price of $355, this tour offers a lot—expert guiding, scenic train rides, archaeological sites, and authentic meals. While some reviews have mentioned that certain expenses—like entrance fees or accommodations—are not included, the package’s focus on guided experiences and transportation makes it a convenient way to see major highlights without the stress of logistics.

That said, a few travelers felt that the overall value could be improved if more was included or if guides offered more detailed explanations. For example, one review noted that the guide at Sacred Valley didn’t always provide enough background, which might be frustrating if you’re eager to deeply understand the sites. But the guide at Machu Picchu, Samuel, received high praise for his engaging storytelling.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This 2-day experience is ideal for travelers who want to see the highlights of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu without committing to a longer trek or more complex itinerary. It’s suitable for those comfortable with a busy schedule, a bit of walking, and some organized transportation. If you’re looking for an immersive history lesson and stunning scenery, this tour delivers.

Final Thoughts: The Balance of Value and Experience

This tour strikes a good balance—covering essential sites with knowledgeable guides and scenic travel, all within a manageable two days. It offers a taste of Inca civilization and the natural beauty of the Andes, making it a solid choice for first-time visitors or those on a tight schedule. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who appreciate small-group settings, making the experience more intimate and flexible.

While it might not include every expense or offer extensive free time at every site, the structured schedule ensures you see the major highlights without stress. The guided insights, especially at Machu Picchu, help bring the ruins to life, turning a bucket-list destination into a memorable story.

If you’re after a straightforward, well-organized tour that combines culture, history, and scenery at a reasonable price, this option from Latitudes is worth serious consideration. Just be prepared to handle some additional costs and pack your sense of adventure along with your camera.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for first-time visitors to Peru?
Absolutely. It’s designed to show you the highlights of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu in a short time, making it perfect for those new to the region.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, which helps ensure more personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Are meals included?
Not all meals. Lunch in Urubamba is included on Day 1, but dinner on the first day and lunch on Day 2 are extra. You’ll find good local options in Aguas Calientes for dinner.

Does the tour include Machu Picchu entrance tickets?
Yes, your ticket to Machu Picchu is included, along with a guided tour of the site.

What about transportation?
Transportation from Cusco to Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Aguas Calientes is arranged via shared minibus and scenic trains. The bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu is not included but can be purchased separately.

How much walking is involved?
You’ll do some walking at each site, particularly at Machu Picchu and Ollantaytambo. The pace is generally moderate, but comfortable shoes are recommended.

Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s a small-group tour, there’s some flexibility. However, most of the schedule is fixed to optimize the experience and logistics.

In summary, this 2-day Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour offers a practical and enriching way to see Peru’s most famous sites. It balances guided insight with free time, scenic transportation with culture. Perfect for those who want a well-rounded experience that’s manageable and memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby