Exploring the captivating landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Peru’s Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu is an opportunity not to be missed. This 2-day tour from Cusco offers an immersive experience, guiding travelers through vibrant markets, ancient Inca ruins, and breathtaking natural wonders. With expert local guides and an all-inclusive itinerary, visitors can explore the region’s history and traditions, while enjoying the convenience of seamless transportation and accommodation. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a first-time explorer, this tour promises an unforgettable journey that will leave you eager to uncover more of Peru’s captivating sights and stories.
Key Points
- This 2-day tour from Cusco includes exploring the Sacred Valley and visiting the iconic Machu Picchu, with the option to hike up Mountain Machu Picchu.
- The tour price of $461 per person covers all-inclusive services such as transportation, accommodation, meals, and professional guides in English and Spanish.
- Day 1 features visits to Chinchero, Maras Salt Mines, Moray, and Pisaq, followed by a train ride to Aguas Calientes.
- On Day 2, visitors enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu, with free time for personal exploration and an optional hike up Mountain Machu Picchu.
- Foreign students under 25 can take advantage of discounted ticket prices for Machu Picchu and Mountain Machu Picchu with a valid student ID.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview and Pricing
- Itinerary Details
- Day 1: Sacred Valley Exploration
- Day 2: Machu Picchu Adventure
- Inclusions and Exclusions
- Machu Picchu Access and Tickets
- Preparation and Recommendations
- Foreign Student Discounts
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Leave My Luggage in Cusco While on the Tour?
- Is There a Discount for Seniors or People With Disabilities?
- Can I Book the Tour in Person in Cusco?
- What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Change My Date?
- Can I Add Extra Activities or Extend My Stay in Aguas Calientes?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Cusco
- More 2-Day Experiences in Cusco
- More Tours in Cusco
- More Tour Reviews in Cusco
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Cusco we have recnetly reviewed
Tour Overview and Pricing
The 2-day all-inclusive tour from Cusco to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu costs from $461.00 per person.
It offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a "reserve now & pay later" option.
The tour lasts 2 days and provides live tour guides in both Spanish and English.
On the first day, visitors explore the Sacred Valley and take a train to Aguas Calientes.
The second day includes a bus transfer to Machu Picchu, a 2-hour guided tour, and free time to explore the ruins and climb Mount Machu Picchu.
The package includes hotel pickup/drop-off, transportation, entrance tickets, and lunch on the first day.
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Itinerary Details
On the first day, the tour kicks off with pickup from participants’ accommodations in Cusco.
Travelers will then explore the highlights of the Sacred Valley, including:
- Chinchero, a picturesque Andean town known for its traditional weaving techniques
- Maras Salt Mines, where salt has been harvested for centuries
- Moray, an ancient Inca agricultural experiment station
- Ollantaytambo or Taray viewpoint, offering stunning vistas
- Pisaq, home to impressive Inca ruins and a lively market
After a delicious lunch in Urubamba, the group will board a train to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu, with the rest of the afternoon free to enjoy activities like visiting the Butterfly farm or relaxing in the hot springs.
Day 1: Sacred Valley Exploration
Typically, the tour kicks off with pickup from participants’ accommodations in Cusco.
The first stop is the charming town of Chinchero, known for its colorful Sunday market and Inca ruins. Next, the group explores the remarkable Maras Salt Mines, where thousands of salt pools dot the mountainside.
At Moray, they’ll marvel at the mysterious Inca agricultural terraces. The tour then continues to the historic town of Ollantaytambo or the scenic Taray viewpoint.
Finally, they’ll visit the lively market of Pisaq before enjoying a lunch in Urubamba.
After lunch, they’ll board the train for the scenic journey to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu, with the afternoon free to relax or explore.
Day 2: Machu Picchu Adventure
Early in the morning, visitors embark on a bus transfer to the iconic Machu Picchu.
Following a 2-hour guided tour of the Inca citadel, guests have free time to explore the ruins at their own pace. Some choose to climb the challenging Mountain Machu Picchu, offering panoramic vistas.
After the visit, travelers return to Aguas Calientes for lunch before the journey back to Cusco.
This comprehensive tour ensures guests make the most of their time at this wonder of the world, with all transportation and entrance tickets included.
The day culminates in a scenic train ride, capping off an unforgettable Machu Picchu adventure.
- 2-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu
- Free time to wander the historic ruins
- Optional hike up Mountain Machu Picchu
- Lunch in Aguas Calientes before return to Cusco
- All transportation and entrance tickets included
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour includes several important inclusions that ensure a seamless Machu Picchu experience. Hotel pickup and drop-off, round-trip train and bus tickets, and entrance tickets to all attractions are provided. A professional tour guide leads the way, and lunch on the first day is included. Accommodation in Aguas Calientes is also optional.
| Inclusions | Exclusions |
|---|---|
| Hotel pickup and drop-off | Individuals afraid of heights or with vertigo |
| Round-trip train and bus tickets | Individuals with low fitness levels |
| Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu and Mountain Machu Picchu | Lunch on Day 2 |
| Entrance tickets to all Sacred Valley attractions |
However, the tour is not suitable for individuals afraid of heights or with vertigo, as well as those with low fitness levels. Lunch on the second day is also not included.
Machu Picchu Access and Tickets
Access to Machu Picchu is limited to 5,000 tickets per day, making advance booking essential, especially during the peak season from April to October.
Booking your tickets well in advance guarantees full access to the Inca citadel and Mountain Machu Picchu, which are separate locations.
It’s important to note that:
- Children aged 0-2 receive free admission.
- Children aged 3-17 are considered minors and may be eligible for discounted tickets.
- Foreign students under 25 can obtain discounted tickets by presenting a valid student card.
- The Inca citadel and Mountain Machu Picchu have different entrance fees.
- Booking at least 2 months in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
Preparation and Recommendations
Frequently, travelers are recommended to bring hiking shoes, insect repellent, and cash when embarking on this 2-day tour to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. Foreign students under 25 can obtain discounted tickets with a valid student card. To ensure a comfortable and successful experience, here are some additional preparation tips:
| Recommended Items | Importance |
|---|---|
| Hiking Shoes | To navigate the uneven terrain comfortably |
| Insect Repellent | To avoid bug bites during the outdoor exploration |
| Cash | For any additional expenses or purchases along the way |
| Warm Layers | For varying temperatures in the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu |
Foreign Student Discounts
Often, foreign students under the age of 25 can obtain discounted tickets for the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour with a valid student ID. This can provide significant savings, making the already affordable tour even more accessible.
To qualify for the discounted rate, students must present their valid student card when purchasing tickets. The discounted tickets cover:
- Entrance to Machu Picchu and Mountain Machu Picchu
- All Sacred Valley attraction visits
- Round-trip train and bus transportation
- Guided tour with a professional guide
This student-friendly pricing makes the tour an excellent option for budget-conscious travelers who want to experience the wonders of Peru’s iconic sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Leave My Luggage in Cusco While on the Tour?
Yes, you can leave your luggage in Cusco while on the tour. The tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, so you won’t need to carry your luggage during the 2-day excursion to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
Is There a Discount for Seniors or People With Disabilities?
The tour doesn’t mention any discounts for seniors or people with disabilities. However, it does provide free admission for children aged 0-2 and discounted tickets for foreign students under 25 with a valid student card.
Can I Book the Tour in Person in Cusco?
Yes, the tour can be booked in person in Cusco. The operator offers a reserve now and pay later option, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance is available for greater flexibility.
What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Change My Date?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility to change the date if needed. There’s also a reserve now, pay later option available.
Can I Add Extra Activities or Extend My Stay in Aguas Calientes?
Yes, travelers can add extra activities or extend their stay in Aguas Calientes. The tour operator offers optional accommodation, and there are various activities like visiting the Butterfly farm or hot springs that can be booked separately.
Cusco: 2-Day Tour to Sacred Valley and Mountain Machu Picchu
Recap
This 2-day tour of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu from Cusco offers an immersive cultural experience for travelers. Exploring Inca ruins, vibrant markets, and stunning landscapes, the tour provides a comprehensive introduction to Peru’s rich heritage. With expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and all-inclusive services, it’s an unforgettable journey perfect for those seeking an authentic taste of the Andes.
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