From Cusco – 2-Day Tour to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu With Lunch

Exploring the captivating landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Peru’s Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu is a must-do for many travelers. This 2-day tour from Cusco promises an immersive experience, taking visitors through iconic sites like Pisac and Ollantaytambo, where they’ll uncover the region’s fascinating history. With a delightful traditional Peruvian lunch in Urubamba and a guided tour of the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, this adventure offers a well-rounded glimpse into the country’s remarkable offerings. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a first-time visitor, this tour promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Peru’s enduring allure.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Lunch Experiences In Cusco.

Key Points

• The 2-day tour from Cusco visits the Sacred Valley, including Pisac and Ollantaytambo, and includes a train ride to Machu Picchu with a guided tour.
• The tour features a traditional Peruvian lunch in Urubamba and an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes.
• The Pisac craft market offers a cultural experience and the opportunity to purchase handmade local artisan products.
• Ollantaytambo showcases well-preserved Inca architecture and engineering, providing insights into the Inca heritage.
• The tour is operated by Peru Andes Top, has a 93% traveler recommendation rate, and starts at $355.00 per person.

Tour Overview

This 2-day tour from Cusco takes travelers to the iconic Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.

The tour includes visits to the archaeological sites of Pisac and Ollantaytambo, as well as a train ride to the town of Aguas Calientes.

With 93% of travelers recommending the tour, it provides a comprehensive exploration of the region’s rich history and culture.

The tour is operated by Peru Andes Top and starts at $355.00 per person, including lunch and entrance tickets to Pisac and Ollantaytambo.

The tour accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers and is available in both Spanish and English.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins with an exploration of the Sacred Valley on the first day. Travelers will visit the archaeological site of Pisac, with its impressive stone walls, terraces, irrigation systems, and Inca cemetery. After, they can browse the local craft market for souvenirs. Lunch is served at a restaurant in Urubamba, featuring traditional Peruvian dishes. The day concludes with a visit to the Ollantaytambo archaeological complex, showcasing Inca stonework, temples, and terraces. From there, the group takes a train ride to Aguas Calientes for an overnight stay.

Day 1: Sacred Valley Exploration	Day 2: Machu Picchu Visit
Pisac Market	Santuario Historico de Machu Picchu
Urubamba Lunch	Guided Tour
Ollantaytambo	Lunch in the Area
Train to Aguas Calientes	Return to Cusco

Day 1: Sacred Valley Exploration

The first day of the tour focuses on exploring the picturesque Sacred Valley.

Travelers visit the archaeological site of Pisac, admiring the impressive Inca stone walls, terraces, and irrigation systems. Afterward, they’ve time to browse the vibrant Pisac craft market.

The tour then continues to Urubamba, where they enjoy a traditional Peruvian lunch at a local restaurant.

Next, they explore the impressive Ollantaytambo archaeological complex, showcasing the Inca’s remarkable stonework, temples, and terraces.

The day concludes with a train ride to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu, where they’ll stay overnight in preparation for the next day’s visit to the iconic Inca citadel.

Pisac Market

Situated within the picturesque Andes mountains, the vibrant Pisac Market beckons visitors with its colorful array of handcrafted goods and traditional Andean textiles.

Travelers can explore the archaeological site, which features impressive stone walls, terraces, irrigation systems, and an Inca cemetery.

After touring the ruins, visitors can browse the lively craft market, where local artisans offer a wide selection of alpaca sweaters, tapestries, jewelry, and more.

This cultural experience provides an opportunity to interact with the local community and gain insights into the Inca heritage that continues to shape the region.

Urubamba Lunch

After exploring the ancient ruins of Pisac, the tour takes travelers to the charming town of Urubamba for a delightful lunch at a local restaurant. Diners can expect to savor a variety of authentic Peruvian dishes, from hearty stews to vibrant salads. The meal is an opportunity to take in the local culinary culture and refuel before continuing the adventure.

Dish	Description	Price
Lomo Saltado	Stir-fried beef with onions, tomatoes, and french fries	$12
Quinoa Salad	Fresh quinoa with vegetables, herbs, and a zesty dressing	$9
Aji de Gallina	Creamy chicken stew in a yellow pepper sauce	$11
Causa Limeña	Layered mashed potatoes with tuna, avocado, and aji amarillo	$10
Chicha Morada	Traditional purple corn drink, naturally sweetened	$3

The lunch in Urubamba provides a delicious and authentic taste of Peruvian cuisine, fueling the group for the remainder of the day’s exploration.

Ollantaytambo Exploration

From Urubamba, the tour moves on to the ancient Inca stronghold of Ollantaytambo.

Visitors explore the impressive archaeological complex, showcasing the remarkable Inca stonework. Temples, terraces, and other structures provide a glimpse into the engineering prowess of the Incas.

Travelers wander through the well-preserved town, with its narrow streets and original Inca-built stone foundations. The tour allows ample time to fully absorb the site’s significance and marvel at the ingenuity of its construction.

After the tour, the group boards a train to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu, where they’ll spend the night before the much-anticipated visit to the iconic Inca citadel the next day.

Day 2: Machu Picchu Visit

The second day of the tour is dedicated to exploring the iconic Machu Picchu.

After an early morning train ride, travelers will embark on a guided tour of the historic sanctuary.

The tour covers the site’s key highlights, including:

• Admiring the impressive stone architecture and terraces that showcase Inca engineering prowess
• Learning about the site’s ceremonial and religious significance through the guide’s commentary
• Taking in panoramic views of the surrounding Andes mountains from vantage points within the citadel
• Enjoying a lunch in the area before beginning the return journey back to Cusco, concluding the two-day adventure.

Logistics and Meeting Points

The tour offers pickup service for hotels in central Cusco.

Otherwise, travelers can meet the group at the Cathedral Door in Plaza de Armas.

The tour has a maximum of 15 participants, providing a more personalized experience.

It’s important to note that this tour is non-refundable, and cancellations won’t refund the entrance ticket costs.

Travelers should be prepared for the tour’s physical requirements, as the itinerary emphasizes hiking and exploring the archaeological sites.

Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so individuals with mobility issues should consider this when deciding to join.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Time Is Allotted for Free Time and Exploring on My Own?

The tour provides limited free time for independent exploration, with the majority of the itinerary dedicated to guided visits and activities. Travelers will have some opportunities to shop and wander at their own pace during the Pisac Market stop.

Are There Any Optional Activities or Upgrades Available During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t mention any optional activities or upgrades. The provided itinerary appears to be a set program with limited free time for independent exploration. Travelers should inquire with the tour operator about any available customization or add-on options.

What Is the Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Tour?

The tour recommends comfortable, layered clothing suitable for varying temperatures and weather conditions. Sturdy walking shoes are essential for navigating the uneven terrain of the archaeological sites. Bring sun protection and a lightweight rain jacket just in case.

How Do I Prepare for the Hiking and Physical Activity Involved?

To prepare for the hiking and physical activity, wear comfortable, broken-in hiking shoes or boots, bring plenty of water, and be ready for moderate inclines and uneven terrain. Pace yourself and take breaks as needed during the tour.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Restrictions for Participating in the Tour?

The tour does not have strict age or fitness restrictions. However, it emphasizes physical readiness for hiking, so travelers should ensure they can comfortably participate in the outdoor activities. Most travelers can join the tour.

Recap

This 2-day tour from Cusco offers an immersive experience exploring the Sacred Valley and the iconic Machu Picchu. Travelers will visit vibrant markets, enjoy a traditional Peruvian lunch, and uncover the rich history and stunning architecture of the ancient Inca citadel. With expert guidance and breathtaking scenery, this tour provides an unforgettable journey through Peru’s cultural heritage, making it a must-do for any traveler visiting the region.