Cusco: 2-Day Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Guided Tour

Exploring the ancient wonders of Peru’s Sacred Valley and the iconic Machu Picchu is a bucket-list adventure for many travelers. The 2-day guided tour from Cusco promises an immersive cultural experience, taking visitors through picturesque landscapes, historical sites, and vibrant local markets. With an early start on day one and a full day at the Inca citadel on day two, this tour offers an efficient and comprehensive way to uncover the rich heritage of this remarkable region. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or simply seeking an unforgettable journey, this tour may just be the perfect gateway to discovering the magic of Peru.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Tours In Ollantaytambo.

Key Points

• This 2-day guided tour from Cusco takes visitors to explore the Sacred Valley, including Chicheros, Moray salt mines, Ollantaytambo, and Pisaq, with a visit to Machu Picchu on the second day.
• The tour price is Kč 8,559 per person and includes round-trip train and bus tickets, entrance fees, and a professional guide, but excludes certain mandatory tickets and optional upgrades.
• The itinerary involves long excursions, hiking, and steep terrain, and may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, claustrophobia, or altitude sickness.
• The tour offers a 2-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu, with options to explore the ruins and enjoy stunning views, and an optional climb to Huayna Picchu.
• Travelers should be prepared with appropriate gear, snacks, and a reusable water bottle, and be aware of the physical demands to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Cusco: 2-Day Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Guided Tour is a comprehensive package that offers visitors a chance to explore the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the Cusco region.

Priced at Kč 8,559 per person, the tour lasts two days and includes hotel pickup, round-trip train and bus tickets, entrance fees, and a professional guide.

Cancellation is non-refundable. The tour is offered in English and Spanish, and caters to various health and safety considerations, such as not being suitable for individuals with back problems, mobility issues, or claustrophobia.

With a detailed itinerary covering Chicheros, Moray salt mines, Ollantaytambo, and Machu Picchu, this tour provides an immersive and unforgettable experience.

Itinerary Details

The 2-day Cusco: Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour offers an immersive and well-paced itinerary.

On the first day, you’ll be picked up at 6:30 am and explore renowned sites like Chicheros, Moray salt mines, Ollantaytambo, and Pisaq.

The option to stay overnight in Aguas Calientes allows you to start the second day by departing for Machu Picchu at 7:00 am, followed by a 2-hour guided tour and free time for photos and exploration.

Key highlights include:

• Optional entrance to Huayna Picchu for panoramic views
• Return to Cusco via train to Ollantaytambo and bus
• Comprehensive inclusions like hotel pickup, train tickets, and guide services

Day 1 Highlights

On the first day of the Cusco: Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour, travelers embark on an engaging exploration of the region’s renowned sites.

The day begins with a 6:30am pickup from their Cusco hotel, kicking off a journey to the picturesque Chicheros village.

Next, they’ll visit the impressive Moray salt mines and the ancient Inca ruins of Ollantaytambo.

The tour also includes a stop at the lively Pisaq market, allowing participants to enjoy the local culture and shop for unique handicrafts.

For those opting for the overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, the day concludes around 3:00pm at Ollantaytambo, where they’ll board the train to their hotel.

The guide provides evening instructions to prepare for the next day’s Machu Picchu adventure.

Day 2 Highlights

Bright and early, travelers depart Aguas Calientes at 7:00 am by bus for the much-anticipated journey to Machu Picchu.

Upon arrival, they’ll embark on a 2-hour guided tour of the breathtaking Inca citadel, learning about its history and cultural significance.

Afterward, visitors can:

• Explore the ruins and take in the stunning views at their own pace
• Opt for an additional climb up Huayna Picchu for panoramic vistas
• Enjoy a leisurely lunch in Aguas Calientes before the train journey back to Ollantaytambo and bus to Cusco.

This second day promises an unforgettable experience at the iconic Machu Picchu, the crown jewel of the Sacred Valley adventure.

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Inclusions and Exclusions

Included in the tour package are hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco, round-trip train tickets, round-trip bus tickets to Machu Picchu, entrance to the iconic Inca site, and the services of a professional tourist guide.

Also included are a tour of the Sacred Valley and lunch in Urubamba on the first day. Participants must purchase the mandatory tourist ticket for the Sacred Valley and salt mines separately.

Upgrades to a 3-star hotel are optional for an additional fee. Excluded are other meals, drinks, and personal expenses.

Certain health and physical limitations apply, and prohibited items include jewelry, alcohol, drugs, and skates.

Important Information

Visitors are advised to bring their passport, a camera, comfortable hiking shoes, and water.

The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with back problems, mobility impairments, claustrophobia, fear of heights, altitude sickness, or those weighing over 300 lbs (136 kg) or over 70 years of age.

Prohibited items include:

• Jewelry
• Alcohol and drugs
• Explosive substances
• Skates

Proper preparation and awareness of the physical demands are essential for a safe and enjoyable experience on this 2-day Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu guided tour.

Health and Safety Considerations

The 2-day Cusco: Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour may not be suitable for everyone.

Individuals with back problems, mobility impairments, claustrophobia, fear of heights, or altitude sickness should exercise caution. Those over 70 years old or weighing over 300 lbs (136 kg) may also face challenges.

The tour involves hiking and navigating steep terrain, which could be difficult for those with physical limitations. Travelers should carefully consider their fitness level and any medical conditions before booking.

Safety is paramount, and the tour operator reserves the right to deny participation if they deem a person unfit. Proper preparation and disclosure of any concerns can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Additional Tips

Packing the right gear and being prepared for the changing weather can enhance the Cusco: Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour experience.

Bringing layers, such as a lightweight jacket and thermal clothing, allows you to adjust to the varying temperatures throughout the day.

Plus, packing a portable charger and extra batteries for your camera ensures you can capture stunning photos without worrying about your device’s battery life.

Finally, consider bringing snacks and a reusable water bottle to stay energized and hydrated during the long excursions.

By planning ahead, you can focus on fully enjoying the beauty and wonder of this remarkable destination.

• Dress in layers for changing weather conditions
• Bring a portable charger and extra camera batteries
• Pack snacks and a reusable water bottle

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, you can book a private tour instead of a group tour. Many tour operators offer private tour options that provide a more personalized experience and allow you to customize the itinerary to your preferences.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour to 3 Days?

Yes, you can extend the tour to 3 days. This allows for more time to explore the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu at a leisurely pace. Additional costs and itinerary details would be provided by the tour operator.

Can I Visit Additional Sites in the Sacred Valley?

Yes, visitors can add more sites in the Sacred Valley to their 2-day tour. The itinerary can be customized to include additional destinations like Chinchero, Moray, Maras salt mines, or Pisac ruins, but this will increase the overall tour cost.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

Yes, there’s a discount for children under 12 and seniors over 65. Children get a 50% discount, while seniors receive a 30% discount on the tour price. These discounts are subject to availability and may vary.

Can I Leave My Luggage at the Hotel During the Tour?

You can generally leave your luggage at the hotel during the tour. The tour company typically provides details on storage options, so it’s best to check with them prior to the tour.

Recap

This 2-day guided tour of Cusco’s Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu offers an unforgettable cultural and natural adventure. Visitors will marvel at the stunning landscapes, historic ruins, and vibrant local markets, seeing the rich heritage of Peru. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable accommodations, and seamless logistics, this tour provides an exceptional opportunity to experience the best of this captivating region.

You can check if your dates are available here: