Machu Picchu, the iconic Inca citadel, stands as a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of Peru’s ancient civilisation. Coupled with the breathtaking landscapes of the Sacred Valley, this two-day tour offers travellers a chance to enjoy the country’s rich history and cultural heritage. From the exploration of Pisac and Ollantaytambo to the guided visit of the majestic Machu Picchu, this meticulously planned adventure promises an unforgettable experience. With the best train departure time, visitors can maximize their time and fully appreciate the grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage site. But what truly sets this tour apart is the opportunity to uncover the hidden gems and gain a deeper understanding of Peru’s enduring legacy.
Key Points
- The two-day tour includes a scenic train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu, on the first day.
- The train ride to Aguas Calientes is scheduled for the afternoon, allowing ample time for exploration of the Sacred Valley sites earlier in the day.
- Participants are advised to have an early breakfast in Aguas Calientes on the second day before taking the bus to Machu Picchu for the guided tour.
- The tour provides a flexible itinerary, with free time in the evening in Aguas Calientes on the first day for independent exploration.
- While the tour is not wheelchair accessible, it is designed for a moderate pace with rest breaks, accommodating a range of fitness levels.
👉 Check out our guide to the 2 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In Cusco
Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview
- Itinerary Details
- Day 1: Sacred Valley Exploration
- Day 2: Machu Picchu Visit
- Meeting and Pickup Information
- Accessibility and Confirmation
- Cancellation Policy
- Reviews Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What Are the Acceptable Forms of Payment for the Tour?
- Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Itinerary to Suit Individual Preferences?
- What Is the Recommended Attire and Equipment for the Tour?
- Can Travelers Extend Their Stay in Cusco or Aguas Calientes Before or After the Tour?
- Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for Children Participating in the Tour?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Cusco
- More 2-Day Experiences in Cusco
- More Tour Reviews in Cusco
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Cusco we have recnetly reviewed
Tour Overview
The tour is a 2-day exploration of Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, located in Cusco, Peru, catering to a maximum group size of 14 travelers.
Priced from $385, the tour includes an entrance ticket, meals, accommodations, guided tours, and round-trip transfers from Cusco.
With a 5.0 rating based on 9 reviews, the tour is praised for its professional and knowledgeable guides.
Highlights include visiting the archaeological site of Pisac, enjoying a traditional lunch in Urubamba, and taking a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes before the Machu Picchu visit on the second day.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Cusco
Itinerary Details
On Day 1, the tour commences with pickup from downtown Cusco between 7:00 and 7:30 AM.
This is followed by a visit to the Pisac handicraft stores and archaeological complex, where the guide assists travelers with purchasing the tourist ticket.
Next, the group enjoys a traditional lunch in Urubamba at a top-rated restaurant.
The afternoon is spent exploring the impressive Ollantaytambo fortress on a guided tour, with free time before the scenic train ride along the Vilcanota River to Aguas Calientes.
Here, travelers check into their accommodation and have the evening free to explore and dine.
The following day begins with an early breakfast in Aguas Calientes, followed by a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu site.
Day 1: Sacred Valley Exploration
After pickup from downtown Cusco between 7:00 and 7:30 AM, the tour explores the Pisac handicraft stores and archaeological complex, where the guide assists travelers with purchasing the required tourist ticket. Next, the group enjoys a traditional lunch at a top-rated restaurant in Urubamba. The afternoon takes the travelers to the Ollantaytambo fortress for a guided tour, followed by free time before the scenic train ride along the Vilcanota River to Aguas Calientes. Once in Aguas Calientes, the group checks into their accommodations, leaving the evening free for dinner.
| Activity | Location | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Pisac Exploration | Pisac | 1.5 hours |
| Traditional Lunch | Urubamba | 1 hour |
| Ollantaytambo Fortress Tour | Ollantaytambo | 1.5 hours |
| Train Ride to Aguas Calientes | Vilcanota River | 1.5 hours |
| Check-in and Free Time | Aguas Calientes | Evening |
Day 2: Machu Picchu Visit
Early the next morning in Aguas Calientes, travelers enjoy a hearty breakfast before making their way to the bus stop for the journey up to Machu Picchu. The guide leads the group on a 2-hour tour of the ancient Inca citadel, ensuring a maximum group size of 8 for an intimate experience.
The top 3 highlights of the Machu Picchu visit include:
-
Discovering the remarkably well-preserved ruins and learning about the site’s rich history from the knowledgeable guide.
-
Marveling at the stunning vistas of the surrounding Andes mountains that frame the iconic site.
-
Having limited free time after the tour to explore the ruins further or snap photos before the return journey.
After the visit, travelers head back to Aguas Calientes for lunch on their own and the train ride back to Ollantaytambo, where a minibus transfers them to their Cusco accommodation, arriving around 9 PM.
Meeting and Pickup Information
The coordinator meets travelers at their hotel the day before departure to provide important details like pickup time and ticket distribution.
During this briefing, participants learn the exact pickup point, which is usually from their accommodation or a nearby location as indicated. This ensures a smooth start to the tour, with everyone prepared and ready to embark on their journey.
The coordinator’s role is to ensure everyone has the necessary information and materials to make the most of their Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley experience.
With this attentive pre-trip meeting, travelers can look forward to a well-organized and efficient two-day adventure.
Accessibility and Confirmation
This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though it’s located near public transportation options. Travelers receive tour confirmation within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.
The tour features several key accessibility points:
-
The Sacred Valley exploration and Machu Picchu visit involve moderate hiking and climbing over uneven terrain, which may be challenging for some.
-
Guided tours are conducted at a leisurely pace, with ample time for rest breaks.
-
The tour provider can accommodate dietary restrictions and other special needs with advance notice.
Cancellation Policy
According to the information provided, the cancellation policy for this tour is non-refundable.
Travelers should keep this in mind when booking, as the tour provider doesn’t offer any refunds once a reservation has been made. This means that if a traveler needs to cancel their trip for any reason, they’ll not be able to recover the cost of the tour.
While this policy may seem strict, it’s likely in place to ensure the tour operator can reliably plan and execute the itinerary.
Travelers who are unsure about their ability to commit to the tour dates should carefully consider this policy before booking.
Knowing the cancellation terms upfront can help travelers make an informed decision about whether this tour is the right fit for their needs.
Reviews Summary
Tour participants consistently praise the professionalism and expertise of the guides, who bring the history and culture of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu to life through their engaging and informative tours. Reviewers describe the overall experience as ‘breathtaking’ and ‘excellently organized’, highlighting the seamless coordination from pickup to return. Standout guides cited by name include Ulysses and Fernando, who receive particular acclaim for their captivating presentations.
The tour’s exceptional reviews are further underscored by the following:
-
A 5.0 rating based on 9 reviews, indicating overwhelming customer satisfaction.
-
Guides described as knowledgeable, personable, and adept at fostering a deeper understanding of the destinations.
-
The tour’s comprehensive itinerary and inclusions, which provide excellent value for the price.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Acceptable Forms of Payment for the Tour?
The tour accepts various forms of payment, including major credit cards like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. Cash payment in Peruvian soles or US dollars is also accepted. The specific payment options are communicated during the pre-tour briefing.
Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Itinerary to Suit Individual Preferences?
While the tour’s itinerary is pre-set, the operator may accommodate individual preferences within reason, such as adjusting meal selections or allowing for additional free time. Guests should discuss any customization requests directly with the operator prior to booking.
What Is the Recommended Attire and Equipment for the Tour?
The recommended attire includes comfortable hiking shoes, breathable layers, sun protection like hats and sunscreen, and a small backpack for carrying essentials. Bring water, snacks, and any necessary medications. Dress for the changeable mountain climate.
Can Travelers Extend Their Stay in Cusco or Aguas Calientes Before or After the Tour?
Travelers can extend their stay in Cusco or Aguas Calientes before or after the tour, subject to availability of accommodation. The tour operator doesn’t provide additional night stays, but can assist with booking extra nights as requested.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for Children Participating in the Tour?
There are no specific age requirements for children participating in this tour. However, the tour may not be suitable for very young children due to the extensive walking and high-altitude locations. Families with children should consult the tour operator for more details.
Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley – 2 Days (Best Train Departure Time)
“INCREDIBLE. The 2 day tour is where it's at. Every destination is more breathtaking than the next. All of the guides were professional and courteou…”
Recap
This 2-day tour offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore the Sacred Valley and the iconic Machu Picchu.
With a carefully crafted itinerary, travelers can enjoy the rich history and stunning landscapes of Peru.
The guided visits to Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Machu Picchu ensure an in-depth understanding of this cultural heritage, while the scenic train ride adds to the overall experience.
It’s an unforgettable adventure that showcases the best of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
