Sacred Valley + Machu Picchu: 2 Days
- Duration
- 2 Days
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Group size
- 2-12 people
- Maximum elevation
- Approx. 3,400 m
Sacred Valley + Machu Picchu 2-day itinerary · Train included · Overnight Aguas Calientes · Best Peru itinerary
The Sacred Valley VIP and Machu Picchu 2-Day Tour combines two of Peru’s most important destinations in one well planned itinerary. On the first day, you will explore the highlights of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, visiting archaeological sites, traditional Andean towns, and impressive landscapes before continuing by train to Aguas Calientes.
Spending the night in Aguas Calientes gives you a more comfortable start for your visit to Machu Picchu the following morning. Instead of traveling from Cusco before dawn, you will already be close to the sanctuary, allowing for a smoother and more relaxed experience.
This itinerary is an excellent choice for first time visitors who want to discover the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu without rushing. With transportation, sightseeing, train connections, and guided visits carefully coordinated, the tour offers a practical and immersive way to experience two of the most iconic destinations in the Cusco region.
Itinerary
DAY 1 — Sacred Valley of the Incas
7:00 AM, Hotel Pickup in Cusco
Your journey begins with pickup from your hotel in Cusco. Travel toward the Sacred Valley while enjoying changing Andean landscapes and views of traditional communities along the route.
8:30 AM, Pisac Archaeological Site
Explore the impressive Pisac Archaeological Site, known for its agricultural terraces, ceremonial structures, ancient pathways, and panoramic views over the Sacred Valley. Your guide will explain the site's historical importance and the engineering techniques developed by the Incas.
10:30 AM, Pisac Artisan Market
Continue to the traditional Pisac Market, where local artisans display colorful textiles, ceramics, handicrafts, and silver jewelry. You will have time to browse the stalls and experience the lively atmosphere of this well known Andean market.
12:30 PM, Buffet Lunch in Urubamba
Enjoy a buffet lunch at a selected restaurant in Urubamba. The menu typically includes a variety of Peruvian and Andean dishes before continuing the journey through the valley.
2:00 PM, Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site
Visit Ollantaytambo, one of the most remarkable surviving examples of Inca urban planning. Explore its massive stone terraces, ceremonial areas, temples, and impressive structures built into the mountainside.
4:30 PM, Train to Aguas Calientes
Head to Ollantaytambo train station and board your train to Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo. The journey follows the Urubamba River through increasingly dramatic mountain and cloud forest scenery.
6:30 PM, Arrival in Aguas Calientes
Arrive in Aguas Calientes and transfer to your hotel for check in. The evening is free to explore the town, have dinner, and prepare for your visit to Machu Picchu the following morning.
DAY 2 — Machu Picchu
5:30 AM, Bus to Machu Picchu
After an early breakfast, take the shuttle bus from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of Machu Picchu. Morning departures provide an excellent opportunity to experience the sanctuary during the quieter hours of the day.
6:00 AM, Guided Tour of Machu Picchu
Enter the archaeological sanctuary according to your assigned entrance time and circuit. Enjoy an approximately 2-hour guided tour, discovering terraces, temples, plazas, ceremonial structures, and viewpoints included within your designated route.
Your professional guide will explain the history, architecture, religious significance, and engineering achievements that make Machu Picchu one of the world's most important archaeological destinations.
8:00 AM, Additional Activities, Subject to Your Ticket
Depending on your selected entrance ticket and route, you may continue with an additional hike such as Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain. These routes require separate tickets and must be reserved in advance.
12:00 PM, Return to Aguas Calientes
Take the shuttle bus back to Aguas Calientes. You will have free time for lunch at a local restaurant and, depending on the train schedule, time to explore the town.
2:30 PM, Return Train to Ollantaytambo
Board the train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. Relax and enjoy the scenery as you travel through the Urubamba Valley.
5:00 PM, Transfer from Ollantaytambo to Cusco
Upon arrival at Ollantaytambo station, our transportation will be waiting to continue the journey back to Cusco.
7:30 PM, Arrival in Cusco
Arrive in Cusco in the evening and transfer to your hotel, completing your Sacred Valley VIP and Machu Picchu 2-Day Tour.
Times are approximate and may vary depending on train schedules, Machu Picchu entrance times, traffic, weather conditions, and operational circumstances.
Included
- All transportation (private van, round trip train, shuttle buses)
- Professional English speaking guide (both days)
- Buffet lunch Day 1
- 1 night accommodation in Aguas Calientes (standard double room)
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket (your preferred circuit)
- Hotel transfers in Cusco
Not included
- Entrance to Pisac and Ollantaytambo (~70 soles tourist ticket)
- Dinner Day 1 and lunch Day 2
- Optional Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain ticket (add at booking)
- Tips and personal expenses
- Travel insurance
What to bring
- Book the earliest entry time available for Machu Picchu,morning light is extraordinary and crowds are significantly smaller.
- Bring a small daypack for Day 2,no large bags inside the sanctuary.
- If you plan to hike Huayna Picchu (Route 3-A), only 400 spots are available daily, book as early as possible.
- The night in Aguas Calientes is genuinely worth it. The town is pleasant and staying closer to the site reduces stress significantly.
Pricing
Price
|
Option |
Price per Person |
|
1 people |
$390 USD |
Booking policy
Booking policy
- Free cancellation up to 72 hours before departure.
- Hotel and train cancellation terms apply from 48 hours before.
- Machu Picchu tickets are non refundable once issued.
FAQs
Is it worth staying overnight in Aguas Calientes?
Absolutely this is how we recommend every first time visitor experience Machu Picchu. The early morning light inside the sanctuary is extraordinary, and you avoid the bulk of day trip crowds who arrive mid morning.
Can I add Maras and Moray to this 2-day itinerary?
Yes. Contact us to customize, we can incorporate Moray and the Maras Salt Mines into Day 1 for a small additional cost.
What level of fitness is required?
Moderate. Day 1 involves walking over uneven stone terrain. Day 2 inside Machu Picchu involves stone steps and ramps. The mountain hike options (Huayna Picchu / Machu Picchu Mountain) require good fitness.