Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu 2 Days

Exploring the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu: A Perfect 2-Day Adventure

The 2-day Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion and historical exploration. On the first day, you’ll journey through the heart of the Sacred Valley, visiting traditional Andean towns like Pisa, and Ollantaytambo. As you travel through the valley, you’ll be surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes, Inca terraces, and vibrant local markets that reflect centuries of culture and tradition.

The tour provides insight into the engineering genius and spiritual depth of the Inca civilization. After exploring the Sacred Valley, you’ll board a train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu , where you’ll spend the night in preparation for the following day’s highlight. On the second day, you’ll ascend to the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Sacred Valley of the Incas

The Sacred Valley, nestled in the Peruvian Andes near Cusco, is a region of stunning natural beauty and deep cultural significance. Once the heartland of the Inca Empire, this fertile valley is home to ancient archaeological sites, traditional Andean villages, and breathtaking landscapes shaped by the Urubamba River. The valley stretches from Pisac to Ollantaytambo, showcasing impressive Inca terraces, temples, and fortresses that reveal the ingenuity of Inca architecture.

Along the way, colorful markets, colonial churches, and local traditions offer a glimpse into the daily lives of the Quechua people who still inhabit the region. Framed by towering mountains and dotted with lush fields, the Sacred Valley serves as both a cultural treasure and a peaceful retreat, inviting travelers to connect with Peru’s rich heritage and natural splendor.

Machu Picchu: The New Seven Wonders

Machu Picchu is a breathtaking ancient Inca citadel perched high in the Andes Mountains of Peru, at an altitude of 2,430 meters (7,970 feet). Often referred to as the “Lost City of the Incas,” it was built in the 15th century under the reign of the Inca emperor Pachacutec and mysteriously abandoned a century later. Hidden for centuries by dense jungle and steep mountains, it was rediscovered in 1911 by American explorer Hiram Bingham.

Machu Picchu is renowned for its sophisticated dry-stone construction, precisely cut stones, and harmony with the surrounding landscape. The site includes temples, agricultural terraces, and ceremonial areas, all designed with incredible architectural skill and astronomical alignment. Surrounded by lush green peaks and misty clouds, it offers a mystical and awe-inspiring atmosphere that captivates visitors from around the world. Today, it stands as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, symbolizing the ingenuity and spiritual depth of the Inca civilization.

2 Day Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Pisaq – Moray – Salineras – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

The tour begins early in the morning, with our representative collecting you from your hotel between 6:30 and 7:30am. From there, we will head toward Pisaq, one of the Sacred Valley’s most iconic towns. Along the way we will make several scenic stops to take in the breathtaking views of the valley, with its rolling hills, ancient terraces, and picturesque landscapes.

Our first destination is Pisac archaeological site, where we will be amazed by the spectacular views. The Inca site of Pisac sit atop a mountain ridge, featuring agricultural terraces, ceremonial temples, and ancient tombs, showcasing advanced Inca engineering and offering panoramic views of the Sacred Valley below.

Our journey continues to explore a bit of Pisaq town, a vibrant Andean village famous for its colorful handicraft market, traditional culture, and colonial charm, nestled at the base of majestic mountains in the heart of the Sacred Valley.

Moray and Salt Mines

After exploring Pisac, we will drive to Moray, an Inca archaeological site featuring circular terraces built in natural depressions, used for agricultural experiments. Its unique design showcases Inca ingenuity in farming, climate adaptation, and landscape engineering. You will be able to walk and capture the best photos around the area.

Afterwards, we continue to the Salt Mines of Maras. The pools are a striking network of terraced salt pools on a mountainside, where locals harvest salt using ancient Inca techniques, creating a dazzling white landscape with cultural significance.

Our lunch will be at Urubamba town, where you will enjoy the Peruvian cuisine in a buffet style.

Ollantaytambo

Ollantaytambo is a remarkable Inca archaeological site featuring massive terraces, ceremonial temples, and finely crafted stonework. Once a royal estate and fortress, it offers panoramic views and showcases the strategic and architectural brilliance of the Inca civilization.

Train to Machu Picchu

After having explored the highlight of the Sacred Valley, we then continue our journey, boarding the train towards Aguas Calientes town. This train ride will take about 2 hours following the Urubamba Valley. The route is the most scenic train journey in Peru. Enjoy the breathtaking views while you approach the lost city of the Incas. Discover how the dry mountain landscapes change to lush green forests.

Day 2: Explore Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco

Early in the morning together with our guide, you will board the bus to the main entrance of Machu Picchu, it takes 25 minutes drive. Once you are at the check point, you’ll show you ticket and passport. After you’ll hike up to the classic view where you can get the panoramic postcard photos. Enjoy the sunrise at Machu Picchu with its breathtaking views, and have a guided tour by exploring the most popular sectors of Machu Picchu.

In the afternoon, you will board the train and ride to Ollantaytambo, following by bus drive to Cusco.

The Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour Includes

• Transportation: All ground transfers from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu.
• Accommodation: A night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes.
• Meals: 1 Lunch, 1 Breakfast and 1 Dinner.
• Guide: Experienced English-speaking guide during the excursion.
• Tickets: Machu Picchu tickets circuit 2 and tickets for archaeological sites along the valley are included
• Train Ticket: Round trip train tickets are included .

Does Not Include

• Flights: International and domestic flights to and from Cusco.
• Travel Insurance: Highly recommended but not included.
• Personal Expenses: Tips, souvenirs, and personal items.
• Meals Outside the Tour: Any meals not specified in the itinerary.
• Salt Mines Entrance: Salt Mines of Maras entrance is not included (S/20 soles p/p.

Recommendations For Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour

• Book in Advance: Due the limited Machu Picchu ticket, we highly recommend to book in advance.
• Acclimatization: Spend a few days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley to acclimate to the altitude.
• Health Precautions: Consult with a healthcare provider about altitude sickness prevention.
• Travel Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive coverage for trekking activities.

What to Bring on the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour

• Clothing:
  • Moisture-wicking for two days
  • Comfortable clothes
  • Rain jacket
  • Small backpack
  • Cap for the sun
• Accessories:
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Sunscreen and lip balm
  • Insect repellent
  • Reusable water bottle or hydration system
• Personal Items:
  • Valid passport and necessary permits
  • Personal first aid kit
  • Camera or smartphone for photos
• Miscellaneous:
  • Snacks for personal energy boosts
  • Waterproof bags for electronics and valuables

Prepare adequately to ensure a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable tour in one of the world’s most tourist destination in Peru. We look forward to guiding you on this remarkable Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour!