Tour Overview
Experience the best of the Andes with this 2-day Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour, combining cultural exploration, breathtaking landscapes, and one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites.
Visit Chinchero, Maras Salt Mines, Moray, and Ollantaytambo before continuing by train to Aguas Calientes and exploring the legendary Machu Picchu on the second day. If you are looking for a shorter experience, you can also consider the Sacred Valley Full Day Tour.
Tour Details
Departure & Return: Cusco Hotel Transfer
Departure Time: 06:45 AM
What’s Included
- Train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (Expedition or Vistadome depending on package)
- Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
- Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (round trip)
- Transportation to all sites mentioned in the itinerary
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu citadel
- Entrance to Maras Salt Mines
- Buffet lunch (Day 1) and breakfast (Day 2)
- Professional tour guide
Not Included
- Cusco Tourist Ticket
- Tips
- Hotel in Machu Picchu
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Other expenses not mentioned
What to Bring
- Original passport
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Cash in Peruvian soles
- Water bottle and snacks
Tour Highlights
- Explore the Sacred Valley’s most important archaeological sites
- Visit the Maras Salt Mines and Moray terraces
- Enjoy a scenic train ride to Machu Picchu
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu
Places You Will Visit
Chinchero
A traditional Andean village known for its textile art and Inca heritage. Here you will learn about ancestral weaving techniques and explore ancient terraces.
Maras Salt Mines
An impressive system of over 3,000 salt pools still used today, offering one of the most unique landscapes in the Sacred Valley. You can explore this destination in more detail with the Maras Moray Half Day Tour.
Moray
Circular terraces believed to have been used by the Incas as an agricultural laboratory to experiment with crops and microclimates.
Ollantaytambo
A living Inca town with massive terraces and stone structures, showcasing the engineering brilliance of the Incas.
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Sacred Valley – Aguas Calientes
Begin your journey from Cusco and head to Chinchero, where you will explore local markets and traditional weaving techniques.
Continue to Maras Salt Mines and Moray to discover the agricultural innovations of the Incas. Enjoy a buffet lunch in Urubamba before visiting Ollantaytambo.
In the afternoon, board the train to Aguas Calientes and prepare for your visit to Machu Picchu.
Distance: 95 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Early in the morning, take the bus to Machu Picchu and enjoy a guided tour of the citadel. For a faster option, you can also check the Machu Picchu Day Trip from Cusco.
Explore the main temples, terraces, and viewpoints while learning about the history and significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
After the visit, return to Aguas Calientes and take the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by transport to Cusco.
Difficulty: Moderate
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Machu Picchu in the Sacred Valley?
No, Machu Picchu is located outside the Sacred Valley, but it is commonly visited together due to its proximity.
Should I visit the Sacred Valley before Machu Picchu?
Yes, visiting the Sacred Valley first helps with acclimatization and provides historical context before reaching Machu Picchu.
Why is the Sacred Valley famous?
It is known as the historical heart of the Inca Empire, rich in archaeological sites, culture, and natural beauty.
How long is the train ride to Machu Picchu?
The train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.