The Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley 2-Day Tour offers travelers a chance to enjoy the rich cultural heritage and awe-inspiring landscapes of Peru. Beginning with a visit to the vibrant Pisac Traditional Market and guided tours of the archaeological sites at Pisac and Ollantaytambo, the itinerary culminates in a comprehensive exploration of the iconic Machu Picchu ruins. Participants can expect personalized attention in small groups, ensuring an intimate and informative experience. But the real allure lies in the opportunity to uncover the enigmatic history and mystique of this remarkable ancient citadel, leaving one with a deeper understanding of Inca civilization and a yearning to discover more.
Key Points
- A 2-day tour covering the highlights of Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, including visits to Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Machu Picchu.
- Pricing starts at $355 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and no upfront payment required.
- The tour includes guided exploration of the Pisac Traditional Market, the Pisac Archaeological Complex, and the Fortress of Ollantaytambo.
- The second day features a two-hour guided tour of the Machu Picchu ruins with free time for self-exploration.
- The tour is limited to a small group size of 8 participants and includes bilingual guides for a personalized experience.
Tour Overview and Pricing
What does the Machu Picchu tour package entail? The 2-day tour covers the highlights of Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley.
It’s priced from $355 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Participants can reserve their spot without upfront payment.
The tour includes guided exploration of Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Machu Picchu, along with a scenic train journey, lunch, and accommodation in Aguas Calientes.
The small group size is limited to 8 participants, with English and Spanish-speaking guides.
The tour package covers entrance fees, transportation, and the Cusco Tourist Ticket, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience for travelers.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Aguas Calientes
Tour Itinerary
The tour’s first day begins with a pick-up in Cusco between 7:00 and 7:30 am.
Guests will first explore the Pisac Traditional Market, perusing handicraft stores and the Mercado Tradicional de Pisac.
Next, they’ll visit the Archaeological Complex of Pisac for a guided tour and historical insights.
After a traditional lunch in Urubamba, the group will travel to the Fortress of Ollantaytambo for a guided tour of the site.
Then, they’ll have free time in Ollantaytambo before taking the train to Aguas Calientes, enjoying the scenic journey along the Vilcanota River valley.
On day two, the group will embark on a two-hour guided exploration of the Machu Picchu ruins, followed by free time for self-guided exploration.
They’ll then return to Aguas Calientes for lunch before taking the train back to Ollantaytambo and a minibus transfer to their accommodation in Cusco.
Pisac Traditional Market
Tourists step into the vibrant Pisac Traditional Market, where rows of artisan stalls showcase an array of Andean handicrafts.
Colorful textiles, intricate weavings, and unique ceramics fill the bustling marketplace. Local artisans skillfully display their handcrafted creations, from traditional ponchos to whimsical figurines.
Visitors can bargain with vendors, seeing the lively haggling culture. The market also features a section dedicated to the sale of fresh produce, allowing guests to experience the region’s agricultural bounty.
With its rich cultural heritage and diverse offerings, the Pisac Traditional Market provides a captivating glimpse into the heart of Peruvian traditions.
Archaeological Complex of Pisac
Nestled high in the Andes, the Archaeological Complex of Pisac beckons visitors with its impressive Inca ruins. The site offers a glimpse into the Incas’ architectural prowess, featuring:
-
Terraced agricultural platforms carved into the hillside, demonstrating their sophisticated land management techniques.
-
Ceremonial plazas and religious structures, including the iconic Temple of the Sun, where the Incas worshipped their sun god, Inti.
-
Intricately carved stone walls and fortifications, showcasing the Incas’ exceptional masonry skills.
Guided tours of the complex provide fascinating insights into the history, culture, and daily life of the Inca civilization that once thrived in this breathtaking mountain setting.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyFortress of Ollantaytambo
As visitors make their way through the Sacred Valley, the Fortress of Ollantaytambo stands as a testament to the Inca Empire’s architectural grandeur.
This impressive Inca ruin, nestled in the heart of the Urubamba River valley, boasts massive stone terraces and towering temples. Guests can explore the site’s elaborate irrigation systems, religious shrines, and military structures, all while learning about its strategic importance as a stronghold against the Spanish conquest.
The guided tour provides insight into the site’s fascinating history and engineering feats, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the engineering prowess and resilience of the Inca civilization.
Train to Aguas Calientes
After exploring the impressive Fortress of Ollantaytambo, the tour now heads towards Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu.
The scenic train journey provides a breathtaking experience, as the train winds along the Vilcanota River valley.
The train ride offers:
- Panoramic views of the Andes mountains and lush, green landscapes.
- A chance to relax and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the journey.
- A comfortable and efficient way to reach Aguas Calientes, where the group will transfer to their accommodation and have free time to explore the town.
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, the group will have the opportunity to settle into their hotel and prepare for the next day’s Machu Picchu tour.
Machu Picchu Tour
The second day of the tour begins with the long-awaited visit to the renowned Machu Picchu.
After an early breakfast, guests will board a bus that’ll take them up the winding road to the iconic archaeological site.
Upon arrival, a knowledgeable guide will lead a two-hour tour, providing insightful commentary on the history, architecture, and significance of this Inca wonder.
Visitors will have ample free time to explore Machu Picchu at their own pace, marveling at its stunning vistas and mysterious ruins.
Afterward, the group will descend back to Aguas Calientes for lunch before boarding the train for the return journey to Ollantaytambo and Cusco.
Inclusions and Group Size
This tour includes a comprehensive package of experiences and services to ensure a memorable Machu Picchu adventure.
The inclusions feature:
- A guided tour of the Sacred Valley, including visits to the Pisac market, Ollantaytambo fortress, and a traditional lunch in Urubamba.
- Round-trip train transportation from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, as well as a bus to and from Machu Picchu.
- A guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu ruins and ample free time for self-exploration.
The tour is limited to a small group of 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.
Multilingual live guides are available in both English and Spanish to provide in-depth historical and cultural insights throughout the journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?
The tour operator doesn’t explicitly offer discounts for students or seniors. However, they may consider providing discounts upon request, subject to availability and terms. It’s best to inquire directly with the tour operator about any potential discount options.
What Is the Recommended Attire for the Tour?
The recommended attire for the tour includes comfortable, lightweight clothing, proper walking shoes, and rain gear. Dressing in layers is advised to accommodate the changing weather conditions during the day.
Do You Provide Any Snacks or Water During the Tour?
The tour doesn’t provide any snacks or water during the day. However, passengers are encouraged to bring their own water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized throughout the long day of exploring the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
Can We Customize the Itinerary to Suit Our Preferences?
The tour allows some flexibility to customize the itinerary based on travelers’ preferences. Guests can discuss their interests with the tour operator and make adjustments to the schedule within the tour’s overall scope and duration.
How Reliable Is the Transportation Provided During the Tour?
The transportation provided during the tour is highly reliable. The tour includes roundtrip train tickets, bus rides, and private transfers, ensuring a seamless and comfortable experience. The tour operator has a reputation for punctual and well-coordinated transportation.
Recap
The Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley 2-Day Tour provides an immersive cultural experience, exploring the rich history and stunning landscapes of Peru. From the vibrant Pisac Traditional Market to the iconic Machu Picchu ruins, the tour offers personalized attention in small groups and ample time for self-exploration amidst breathtaking scenery, culminating in an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Inca Empire.
You can check if your dates are available here:More 2-Day Experiences in Aguas Calientes
More Tours in Aguas Calientes
More Tour Reviews in Aguas Calientes
Not for you? Here's more things to do in Aguas Calientes we have recnetly reviewed
- 20 Best 2 Day Tours In Aguas Calientes
- 20 Best 3 Day Tours In Aguas Calientes
- 20 Best 4 Day Tours In Aguas Calientes
- 20 Best Full-Day Tours In Aguas Calientes
- 2 Best Food Tours In Aguas Calientes
- 12 Best Lunch Experiences In Aguas Calientes
- Private -5 Days Cusco-Machu Picchu-Rainbow Mountain+Hotel 4☆
- Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 D/3 N
- Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 Days
- Cusco 4D Private | Humantay Lake, Machu Picchu | Hotel ☆☆☆
- Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu
- Inka Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu 3 D/ 2 N