Tour Details:
Discover the magic of the Andes on this 2-day adventure through the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
Begin your journey with a scenic exploration of the Sacred Valley, visiting the traditional towns of Pisac and Ollantaytambo, and soaking in the region’s rich history and culture. Spend the night in the charming town of Aguas Calientes before waking up to one of the world’s most iconic experiences: a guided tour of Machu Picchu.
Travel comfortably by train and enjoy a well-paced itinerary that allows you to fully absorb the beauty, heritage, and mystique of the Inca civilization.
Highlights:
- Explore the Sacred Valley’s key sites, including Pisac ruins and Ollantaytambo fortress.
- Travel by panoramic train through breathtaking Andean landscapes.
- Spend the night in Aguas Calientes to enjoy a relaxed Machu Picchu visit the next day.
- Enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu with an expert, bilingual guide.
- Learn about Inca history, architecture, and spiritual traditions.
- Round-trip transportation from Cusco included, with door-to-door service.
Gallery
Itinerary
DAY 1: Discover the Sacred Valley and Travel to Aguas Calientes
Cusco – Chinchero – Moray – Maras – Urubamba – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
Start your journey through the heart of the Sacred Valley with rich culture, ancient ruins, and unforgettable landscapes.
Morning – Departure from Cusco
After enjoying breakfast at your hotel in Cusco, we’ll pick you up around 7:45 AM to begin our full-day exploration of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. You’ll travel through breathtaking Andean scenery, charming villages, and vibrant local markets.
Chinchero – Tradition and Textiles
Our first stop is the picturesque town of Chinchero. Here, you’ll visit a local family that preserves ancient Andean weaving traditions. Meet their alpacas and guinea pigs, learn about their natural dyeing techniques, and see how they create colorful handwoven textiles—an experience full of authenticity and cultural warmth.
Moray – The Inca Agricultural Lab
Next, we visit the fascinating circular terraces of Moray. Set against a majestic mountain backdrop, this ancient site functioned as an experimental agricultural center during Inca times. Your guide will explain how the Incas mastered microclimates for crop cultivation in this unique location.
Maras – The Salt Ponds of the Andes
Just a short drive away are the salt mines of Maras, a stunning patchwork of thousands of salt pools that have been harvested by local families for centuries. Take one of the most iconic photos of your trip and enjoy a moment of awe surrounded by tradition and natural beauty.
Urubamba – Buffet Lunch at Don Angel Restaurant
We’ll continue to Urubamba to enjoy a delicious buffet lunch at a colonial-style restaurant. Choose from over 50 traditional Peruvian dishes, with plenty of vegetarian options, and taste the flavors of the Andes in a relaxed atmosphere.
Ollantaytambo – Inca Fortress and Train to Aguas Calientes
In the afternoon, we’ll explore the impressive archaeological site of Ollantaytambo, a former military, religious, and agricultural center. Learn how this fortress was a key stronghold during the Spanish conquest.
After the tour, we’ll head to the train station, where you’ll board your panoramic train bound for Aguas Calientes. This 1 hour and 45-minute ride offers beautiful views of valleys, rivers, and lush mountains as you journey closer to Machu Picchu.
Evening – Arrival in Aguas Calientes
Upon arrival around 6:10 PM, we’ll meet you at the train station and take you to your hotel. After check-in, the evening is yours to relax, dine, or explore the quaint streets of Aguas Calientes at your own pace.
DAY 2: Explore the Lost City of the Incas – Machu Picchu
Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Morning – Journey to Machu Picchu
After an early breakfast at your hotel, your guide will meet you and escort you to the bus station. From there, a short scenic drive (about 30 minutes) takes us up the lush mountainside to the entrance of the majestic Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
Step into one of the most awe-inspiring archaeological sites in the world. Accompanied by your expert guide, you’ll explore the citadel’s main temples, terraces, plazas, and ceremonial sites. Learn about Inca engineering, spiritual beliefs, and daily life in this extraordinary mountaintop city.
Take in the views from the famous viewpoints, feel the powerful energy of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, and capture unforgettable moments that will stay with you forever. After your guided tour, you’ll have some free time to reflect, take photos, or simply enjoy the atmosphere on your own.
Lunch & Return to Cusco
After your visit, return to Aguas Calientes by bus. You’ll have time for lunch at your own pace (not included), explore the town, or visit the artisan markets for souvenirs.
Afternoon – Scenic Train Ride Back
At the scheduled time (around 2:00 PM), board your return train to Ollantaytambo. Enjoy the beautiful Andean landscapes one last time as you travel through valleys and along the Urubamba River.
Evening – Arrival in Cusco
Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, our private transportation will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Cusco. Estimated arrival time: around 6:30 PM, concluding your two-day journey through the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
Included / Excluded
- 1 night of accommodation in a carefully selected hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Pick-up and drop-off directly from your hotel in Cusco (door-to-door service)
- Guided Sacred Valley tour visiting Chinchero (weaving experience), Moray, Maras salt mines, and Ollantaytambo
- Buffet lunch at a top-rated colonial-style restaurant in the Sacred Valley (Day 1)
- Breakfast at your hotel (Day 2)
- Expert-led guided tour of Machu Picchu
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- Round-trip train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (choose your preferred class)
- Round-trip bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
- Private transfer from Ollantaytambo train station to your hotel in Cusco (Day 2)
- All services in a small group setting (maximum of 10 travelers)
- One bottle of water per person
- Prices based on double occupancy (two people sharing one room)
- Airport pick-up/drop-off available upon request
- Domestic or international airfare
- Tourist ticket for the Sacred Valley sites (S/. 90 soles per person – must be paid in cash)
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain (optional – $75 USD; must be requested well in advance due to limited availability)
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
- Personal expenses, such as snacks, drinks, souvenirs, etc.
- Tips for guides, drivers, or staff (optional but appreciated)
-
Single traveler supplement:
o $50 USD extra for a 3-star hotel (private room)
o $85 USD extra for a 4-star hotel (private room)
What to Bring:
- Original passport (required for permits and entrance tickets)
- International Student Identity Card (if applicable, for student discounts)
- Travel insurance documents
- Rain poncho or waterproof plastic cover
- Warm jacket or coat for cold weather
- Sunscreen
- Cap or hat for sun protection
- Sunglasses
- Extra clothing layers for changing weather conditions
- Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
- Suitable footwear for hiking and exploring Machu Picchu
- Reusable water bottle
- Insect repellent
- Camera or smartphone for photos
- Personal toiletries
- Small daypack for daily essentials
- Ear plugs for better sleep comfort
- Snacks and additional water
- Slippers or sandals (for showers and hot springs)
- Bathing suit (for hot springs in Aguas Calientes)
- Extra money for personal expenses
Additional Information
IMPORTANT:
To issue your Machu Picchu entry ticket, the Peruvian authorities require the following information exactly as it appears on your passport:
- Full name
- Passport number
- Date of birth
- Nationality
Please ensure all details are accurate when making your reservation.
Pre-Trip Briefing:
A representative from Sungate Peru Travel will contact you one day before your departure to arrange a pre-trip briefing. This meeting will take place in your hotel lobby or at our office, as agreed in advance, around 6:00 PM.
During the briefing, we will provide a detailed step-by-step itinerary map and deliver all relevant tickets and documents for your journey.
Tour Map
This comprehensive map is designed to guide you through an exciting journey filled with remarkable destinations and captivating experiences.
