The Sacred Valley 2-Day Trek to Machu Picchu provides adventurous travelers with a captivating opportunity to enjoy Peru’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural landscapes. This highly-acclaimed trek seamlessly blends exploration of ancient Inca ruins, picturesque valleys, and the iconic Machu Picchu site, all led by expert local guides. With comfortable accommodations and round-trip transportation included, trekkers can focus on savoring the journey and uncovering the secrets of this remarkable region. While the itinerary may seem straightforward, the true enchantment lies in the details that unfold along the way, leaving one eager to discover more about this remarkable trekking experience.
Key Points
- This 2-day trek offers a cultural and natural immersion in the Sacred Valley, culminating in a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu site.
- The trek includes round-trip transportation, comfortable accommodations, expert local guide, and meals for a comprehensive trekking experience.
- Highlights of the trek include visiting ancient Inca ruins, exploring Inca terraces, and crossing the Piuray Pass at an altitude of 14,100 feet.
- The itinerary provides a balanced mix of hiking, cultural exploration, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders.
- Moderate fitness level is required for the trek, and additional optional activities like the Huayna Picchu hike are available for a more challenging experience.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Trek Overview
- Itinerary: Day 1
- Itinerary: Day 2
- Included Amenities
- Optional Activities
- Physical Requirements
- Booking Details
- Group Size
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What Type of Luggage Can I Bring on the Trek?
- Is It Possible to Arrange a Private Tour Instead of a Group?
- Do I Need to Bring My Own Hiking Gear or Is It Provided?
- Are There Any Restrictions on Photography or Videography During the Trek?
- Can I Extend My Stay in Aguas Calientes Before or After the Trek?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Cusco
- More 2-Day Experiences in Cusco
- More Hiking & Trekking Tours in Cusco
- More Tour Reviews in Cusco
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Trek Overview
The Sacred Valley 2-Day Trek to Machu Picchu offers adventurous travelers a unique opportunity to enjoy the rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty of Peru’s Sacred Valley.
This 5-star rated trek explores ancient Inca ruins, crosses the dramatic Piuray Pass at 14,100 feet, and culminates with a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu.
Over the course of 2 days and 1 night, trekkers will enjoy breathtaking Andean scenery, gain insight into the region’s storied past, and ultimately stand in awe of one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
With round-trip transportation, comfortable accommodations, and an expert local guide, this trek offers an immersive and unforgettable experience.
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Itinerary: Day 1
Trekkers set off from Cusco, embarking on a picturesque journey through the Sacred Valley.
They’ll hike past ancient Inca ruins, soaking in the stunning Andean scenery. Arriving at Chinchero, they’ll explore the village’s colonial church and admire the intricate Inca terraces.
After lunch, the trek continues to Lamay, where they’ll witness more impressive Inca archaeological sites.
As the day winds down, they’ll reach the town of Ollantaytambo and board a train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.
There, they’ll check into their 3-star hotel and enjoy a well-deserved dinner, anticipating the next day’s guided tour of the legendary Inca citadel.
Itinerary: Day 2
On the second day, trekkers embark on the most anticipated part of their journey – a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu.
During this 2-hour tour, an expert guide leads them through the ancient Inca citadel, revealing its rich history and architectural wonders.
Afterward, trekkers have free time to explore the archaeological site on their own, marveling at the breathtaking Andean scenery that surrounds it.
From the iconic Temple of the Sun to the mysterious Intihuatana Stone, Machu Picchu offers a captivating glimpse into the once-thriving Inca civilization.
With this guided exploration, the 2-day trek culminates in an unforgettable experience at one of the world’s most remarkable ancient sites.
Included Amenities
Comprehensive transportation, comfortable accommodation, and essential meals come included in the Sacred Valley Trek to Machu Picchu.
The tour package provides:
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Roundtrip transportation, including hotel pickup, van transfers, train to Aguas Calientes, and bus to and from Machu Picchu.
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One night’s stay in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu.
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Lunch and dinner on the first day, and breakfast on the second day, all in a boxed format for convenience.
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An English-speaking guide to lead the trek and provide a guided tour of the Machu Picchu archaeological site.
Optional Activities
Along With the included amenities, travelers on the Sacred Valley Trek to Machu Picchu can opt for a few extra activities that come at an additional cost.
Adventurous hikers can tackle the renowned Huayna Picchu Trek, but must book this two weeks in advance. Those seeking a more challenging ascent can choose the Machu Picchu Mountain Hike, which requires booking at least one week prior.
Beyond the treks, travelers will need to cover any personal expenses, such as tips and travel insurance.
Advance planning is essential for making the most of this immersive Peruvian adventure.
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Physical Requirements
The Sacred Valley Trek to Machu Picchu requires a moderate level of fitness, as travelers will be hiking through the Andes at high altitudes.
The trek includes:
- Crossing the Piuray Pass at an elevation of 4,300 meters (14,100 feet), which can be challenging due to the thin air.
- Navigating uneven terrain and rocky paths, which can be strenuous for those unaccustomed to hiking.
- Carrying a daypack with essential items for the trek, adding to the physical demands.
- Adjusting to the high altitude, which can cause altitude sickness symptoms like headaches, fatigue, and nausea.
Good physical condition is recommended, especially for the high-altitude portions of the trek.
Booking Details
To book the Sacred Valley Trek to Machu Picchu, travelers must provide their full name, date of birth, nationality, passport number, and passport expiry date (valid for at least 6 months).
This information is required due to the trek’s physical requirements and potential age restrictions. The minimum age is 7 years, and the trek isn’t wheelchair accessible.
The tour has a maximum group size of 15 travelers.
It’s important to note that the cancellation policy is non-refundable, with no refunds for cancellations.
Booking well in advance is recommended, especially for optional treks like Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain, which require additional reservations.
Group Size
The Sacred Valley Trek to Machu Picchu has a maximum group size of 15 travelers. This small group size ensures a more intimate and personalized trekking experience.
Some key benefits of the group size include:
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Enhanced Guidance: With a maximum of 15 participants, the English-speaking guide can provide more attentive and tailored support throughout the trek and Machu Picchu tour.
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Easier Logistics: Smaller groups are more manageable, allowing for smoother transportation, accommodation, and activity coordination.
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Increased Flexibility: A smaller group size offers greater flexibility to adapt the pace and schedule to the needs and preferences of the participants.
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Stronger Camaraderie: The intimate group setting facilitates better interaction and bonding among fellow trekkers, fostering a sense of camaraderie.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Type of Luggage Can I Bring on the Trek?
For this trek, travelers can bring a small daypack to carry essentials like water, snacks, and extra layers. Larger luggage should be left at the hotel or stored during the trek. Pack light for optimal comfort and mobility during the hike.
Is It Possible to Arrange a Private Tour Instead of a Group?
Yes, it’s possible to arrange a private tour instead of a group tour. The tour operator can customize the itinerary and provide a private English-speaking guide for an additional cost. This option offers more flexibility and personalized attention.
Do I Need to Bring My Own Hiking Gear or Is It Provided?
The trekking gear is generally not provided, so hikers need to bring their own hiking boots, backpacks, rain jackets, and other necessary equipment. However, some tour operators may offer gear rentals for an additional fee.
Are There Any Restrictions on Photography or Videography During the Trek?
The tour doesn’t restrict photography or videography during the trek. However, visitors must follow the rules at Machu Picchu, where flash photography and tripods are prohibited to preserve the site’s integrity.
Can I Extend My Stay in Aguas Calientes Before or After the Trek?
Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Aguas Calientes before or after the trek. Additional nights in Aguas Calientes can be booked separately, allowing more time to explore the town and surrounding sites at one’s own pace.
Sacred Valley 2-Day Trek to Machu Picchu
“We had amazing 2D/1N trekking in the Sacred Valley. There were lot of beautiful views in the mountains and the Machu Picchu was very awesome. The t…”
Recap
The Sacred Valley 2-Day Trek to Machu Picchu offers a remarkable opportunity to take in Peru’s captivating history and breathtaking landscapes. Blending cultural exploration and natural wonders, this highly-acclaimed trek culminates with a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu. With comfortable accommodations, expert local guides, and seamless logistics, trekkers can enjoy an unforgettable adventure tailored to adventure enthusiasts of all levels.
