Machu Picchu & Sacred Valley 2-Day Tour

A 2-Day Journey Through Machu Picchu & Sacred Valley: What to Expect

If you’re dreaming about visiting Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley but want a well-organized, authentic experience, this 2-day tour from Cusco might be just what you’re looking for. For $679 per person, you’ll get a taste of the Andean highlands, explore iconic Inca sites like Pisac and Ollantaytambo, and stand before the legendary ruins of Machu Picchu with a knowledgeable guide by your side.

What we love most about this tour is the small group size, which means more personal attention from guides who are passionate about sharing their knowledge. Plus, including meals, entrance tickets, and transport all in one price simplifies planning and gives you a hassle-free experience.

A potential consideration is the fixed schedule—if you’re not the type to stick to tight timings or prefer flexibility, this might feel a bit structured. However, for most travelers seeking a comprehensive, guided journey that balances history, culture, and scenic beauty, it hits the sweet spot.

This tour suits travelers who want a well-rounded, immersive experience with a focus on culture, history, and stunning scenery. If you’re eager to see Machu Picchu with a guided expert and enjoy some of the most fascinating Inca sites, this trip is likely to be a great fit.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 2-day itinerary covering Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
• Small group size ensures more personalized interaction.
• Includes all major tickets and transport, simplifying logistics.
• Authentic experiences with visits to local markets, archaeological sites, and cultural insights.
• Excellent reviews for organization, punctuality, and value.
• Suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, given the walking and altitude.

Exploring the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu in Depth

The Starting Point: From Cusco to the Sacred Valley

This tour begins early in the morning, typically around 8:00 am, with a pickup from your Cusco hotel. From there, the journey kicks off with a visit to Awanakancha, a small animal shelter and textile museum. Here, you get an authentic glimpse into traditional Peruvian textiles and can see llamas and alpacas up close. The admission is free, making it a nice, relaxed start, especially if you’re a fan of animals or handmade crafts.

Next, you’ll head to Parque Arqueologico Pisac, a site renowned for its intricate stonework and terraced agriculture. Located at 3,300 meters above sea level, you’ll want to take your time here to appreciate the incredible views of the Sacred Valley and the complex stone structures. The admission ticket is included, and this stop offers a perfect blend of history and scenery.

Local Markets and Peruvian Cuisine

After exploring the archaeological site, you’ll visit Pisac Market, one of the largest local markets in the region. It’s a feast for the senses—colorful textiles, handmade jewelry, fresh produce, and local delicacies. The 40-minute stop allows you to wander freely, chat with artisans, and pick up souvenirs. Many reviews highlight how vibrant and genuine this market feels compared to tourist-heavy spots, making it an authentic cultural experience.

Post-market, the tour brings you to the Urubamba area for a buffet lunch at Tunupa Restaurant, nestled by the river. Here, you’ll enjoy delicious Peruvian dishes, with many reviews praising the quality and flavor—perfect after a morning of walking. The tranquil riverside setting adds a relaxing break.

The Marvel of Ollantaytambo

The afternoon is dedicated to Ollantaytambo, a picturesque town built with typical Inca urban planning. Its cobbled streets, terraced slopes, and impressive fortress offer a vivid sense of what Inca life was like. Remarkably, Ollantaytambo defeated the Spanish army for nearly 50 years, a fact that adds to its historical significance. The entrance ticket is included, and your guide will take you through the stone terraces, temples, and water channels that showcase Inca ingenuity.

Onward to Machu Picchu: The Train Ride

After a full day of exploring, you’ll transfer to the Ollantaytambo train station for a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes. The journey lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes, offering sweeping views of the mountains and lush landscape. Many travelers note that the train ride is a highlight—comfortable, picturesque, and relaxing.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, your guide will accompany you to your hotel, where you’ll spend the night before visiting Machu Picchu the next day. The included hotel in Aguas Calientes provides a convenient base.

The Magnificence of Machu Picchu

Early morning, you’ll board a bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu—a 30-minute scenic ascent. Once there, a professional guide will take you through the site, sharing stories and insights about its architecture, purpose, and the mysteries that still surround it. You’ll spend approximately 2 hours wandering the ruins, soaking in the views of the lost city of the Incas.

Many reviews describe Machu Picchu as a breathtaking experience; the sense of history and scale is hard to match. The entrance ticket is included, but note that additional hikes like Huayna Picchu are optional and must be booked separately.

Return to Cusco

After exploring Machu Picchu, you’ll head back to Aguas Calientes for the train trip to Poroy, near Cusco. A transfer will take you back to your hotel, completing the memorable 2-day adventure.

The Experience and Its Value

This tour offers an excellent balance between guided exploration and free time. The small group size—capped at 16 travelers—means you’ll get more personalized attention and richer explanations from your guide. Many reviewers mention how supportive and punctual the service was, with Franco, the guide, translating seamlessly between Spanish and English.

Including meals, tickets, and transport in one package simplifies logistics and offers a better overall value. The quality of the food, especially at the buffet in Urubamba, earns praise from travelers who appreciate a delicious, authentic meal amidst a busy sightseeing schedule.

Price-wise, at $679, this tour is quite competitive—considering the all-inclusive nature and the chance to see multiple key sites in one go, it’s a solid deal. Travelers also highlight that the guided tour at Machu Picchu is informative, allowing for a deeper understanding than just wandering on your own.

What Could Be Better?

For some, the fixed schedule and group size might feel restrictive, especially if you prefer more flexibility or want to spend extra time at specific sites. Also, travelers should be prepared for altitude changes and moderate physical activity, as walking on uneven Inca stonework and climbing stairs is involved.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re looking for a well-organized, comprehensive experience that takes care of most logistics, this tour is ideal. It’s particularly suited for first-time visitors wanting a reliable guide and history buffs eager to learn more about the Incas. Those who value authentic local experiences, like visiting markets, will find this especially rewarding.

Travelers who enjoy comfortable transportation and meals included will appreciate the convenience, while those comfortable with walking and some altitude will find the physical demands manageable.

Final Words

This 2-day Machu Picchu & Sacred Valley tour offers a great combination of history, culture, and scenery, all wrapped in a well-paced, guided package. The inclusion of tickets, transport, and accommodation makes it a clear choice for hassle-free travel.

The small-group experience coupled with attentive guides ensures you won’t feel lost in the crowd, making it easier to absorb and enjoy the sights. Delicious food, well-organized logistics, and authentic sites make this tour stand out for value and genuine experience.

If your goal is to see some of the most iconic sites in Peru without the stress of planning every detail, this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially suited for curious travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure, education, and comfort.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transport from Cusco, train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, and bus tickets to Machu Picchu.

What is the group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 16 travelers, providing a more intimate experience with personalized attention.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast and lunch are included on Day 1, with a hotel in Aguas Calientes provided for the overnight stay. Meals at the hotel are not specified but may be available separately.

Can children join this tour?
Children under 5 are free if they do not occupy a seat. Travelers should have moderate physical fitness, so check if your children are comfortable with walking and altitude.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, and your passport (needed for train and Machu Picchu tickets). Pack lightly, especially for the train ride.

Are there optional hikes?
Huayna Picchu is not included and requires a separate booking. The main tour covers just the standard Machu Picchu site.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour depends on good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

How physically demanding is the tour?
Moderate physical activity is involved, including walking on uneven surfaces and some climbing. Travelers should be comfortable with these conditions.

This comprehensive tour balances structure, culture, and breathtaking scenery, making it an excellent choice for those eager to experience the highlights of the Cusco region with minimal fuss.