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Discover the essence of the Andes on a journey that brings together two of the most extraordinary destinations in Peru. Explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas amidst spectacular landscapes, archeological sites, and ancestral traditions, before dedicating the second day to exploring the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. A trip designed to enjoy each experience with greater comfort, without rush, and with personalized attention.
Overview of the Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley tour, 2 days
Why choose this experience with us?
- Small groups for a more personal experience: At Machu Picchu you travel in groups of no more than 6 passengers, with a more comfortable, flexible tour and more attention.
- More time to enjoy Machu Picchu: Thanks to efficient planning and the small group size, you have the time you need to explore the citadel, take photographs and enjoy the views at a calm pace.
- An expert local guide for the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu: Discover the history, architecture and Inca legacy with a professional guide who enriches every moment of the visit.
- Personal support from the start: From the pickup at your hotel in Cusco, a Sakura Expedition representative coordinates every detail of the trip so everything runs smoothly.
Itinerary at a glance
Cusco – Chinchero – Weaving centre – Moray – Maras – Urubamba – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
Discover the main sights of the Sacred Valley, among ancestral traditions, unique textiles and impressive Inca structures. The first day ends in Aguas Calientes, after boarding the tourist train in Ollantaytambo.
Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
The second day is devoted to the Inca citadel. With your professional guide you walk through its main enclosures while learning about the history, architecture and legacy of the Inca empire. In the afternoon, after a short visit to Aguas Calientes, you return to Cusco.
Tour facts
| Detail | Day 1 | Day 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Activity | 2 to 3 hours of walking during the visits | 2 to 3 hours of guided tour at Machu Picchu |
| Highest point | Chinchero: 12,316 ft / 3,754 m | Machu Picchu: 7,972 ft / 2,430 m |
| Lowest point | Aguas Calientes: 6,693 ft / 2,040 m | Aguas Calientes: 6,693 ft / 2,040 m |
| Difficulty | Easy | Easy |
| Temperature | 46 °F to 79 °F (8 °C to 26 °C) | 46 °F to 79 °F (8 °C to 26 °C) |
Highlights of the route
- Chinchero: a traditional Andean village with an important Inca archaeological site and a rich cultural legacy, which we discover through a demonstration of ancestral techniques at one of its weaving centres.
- Moray: its circular terraces are one of the most impressive sights in the Sacred Valley. They are believed to have been an Inca agricultural laboratory, thanks to their many microclimates.
- Maras: the salt pans form a unique landscape, with more than 3,000 salt pools worked since pre-Hispanic times.
- Urubamba: known as the capital of the Sacred Valley, this is where we stop for lunch.
- Ollantaytambo: a town that keeps its original Inca layout, with an impressive archaeological site and the main train station for Machu Picchu.
- Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town): the main service hub and gateway to Machu Picchu.
- Machu Picchu: an Inca citadel considered one of the main retreats of the Inca elite, as well as a sanctuary and astronomical centre among tropical mountains.
Itinerary of the Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley tour, 2 days
Cusco – Chinchero – Weaving centre – Moray – Maras salt pans – Urubamba – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
Today you discover the essence of the Sacred Valley among traditional villages, impressive Andean landscapes and ancient Inca sites that open your journey to Machu Picchu.
- The experience starts with the pickup at your hotel in Cusco at around 7:30 a.m., heading for the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
- Our first stop is Chinchero, where we visit its archaeological site, with wide agricultural terraces and Inca walls alongside colonial architecture. We then meet the local communities, who share their Andean weaving tradition in a guided experience: you learn about natural dyeing with plants and minerals and about the loom techniques passed down through generations.
- We continue to Moray, known for its impressive circular terraces. The Incas are believed to have used it as an agricultural laboratory, as each level creates a different microclimate that allowed them to experiment with various crops.
- Next we visit the Maras salt pans, just minutes from Moray. This set of more than three thousand stepped pools draws on a natural salt spring used since pre-Inca times, and offers one of the most iconic landscapes of the Sacred Valley.
- At midday we stop for lunch in Urubamba, in the heart of the Sacred Valley, with a buffet that brings together a wide selection of traditional Andean and international dishes.
- In the afternoon we continue to Ollantaytambo, the last stop of the day. We explore one of the best preserved Inca towns in Peru, walking its cobbled streets and visiting its imposing fortress, built strategically on the mountainside.
- We then board the tourist train in Ollantaytambo for Aguas Calientes. The journey takes about two hours, during which the landscape changes gradually from the Andean highlands to the lush flora of the cloud forest.
- In Aguas Calientes you spend the night at a comfortable hotel. If you wish, you can wander its welcoming streets, visit its attractions or simply look up at the stars on a magical Andean night, getting ready for the visit to Machu Picchu.
Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Today you live the most awaited moment of the trip: exploring Machu Picchu and discovering the history that has made this citadel one of the great treasures of the world.
- The second day starts early, after breakfast at the hotel. With our guide we head to the bus station for Machu Picchu. The ride is short, about 25 minutes, through the biodiversity that surrounds the wonder of the world.
- At Machu Picchu you visit some of its most important structures, according to the assigned circuit, while your guide shares the history and the mysteries behind each enclosure.
- After the visit we return to Aguas Calientes, where you have free time to enjoy this picturesque town: choose a restaurant for lunch, wander its streets or visit its colourful local market.
- In the late afternoon we travel back on the tourist train, whose windows let you enjoy the scenery all the way. At Ollantaytambo a private vehicle is waiting to take us back to Cusco, closing an adventure that combines history, nature and living culture.
What the Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley tour, 2 days, includes
Machu Picchu entrance ticket
Once your booking is confirmed we buy the entrance tickets according to current availability, always looking for the best option for your visit. Your tour may follow one of these circuits:
- Circuit 2, routes 2A or 2B. Offers the classic panoramic view of Machu Picchu along with some of the main enclosures of the citadel.
- Circuit 3, route 3B. Gives a different perspective, following the lower sector of the Historic Sanctuary.
- Circuit 1, route 1B. Runs through the panoramic sector, with the best views and the classic postcard photo from the Guardian's House.
Each circuit is designed to show different sectors of the citadel. We arrange the best circuit available when your booking is confirmed. Because of high demand, we recommend booking early.
Sacred Valley tickets
- Day 1: partial tourist ticket (BTG), which gives access to the archaeological sites of Chinchero, Moray and Ollantaytambo.
- Day 1: entrance to the Maras salt pans, an impressive set of thousands of salt pools.
Support and safety
- Pre-tour briefing. The day before, our representative goes through every detail of the programme with you and answers your questions.
- Private professional bilingual guide at Machu Picchu (Spanish and English), dedicated exclusively to your group, with detailed explanations of the history, culture and legacy of the citadel.
- Shared-group guide for the Sacred Valley, with specialist guides who enrich the experience with the history, culture and traditions of the destination.
- 24/7 customer service, with an emergency number available from start to finish.
Accommodation and meals
- Day 1: one night at a 3★ hotel in Aguas Calientes, in a double or twin room. For other room types, please ask when booking.
- Day 1: buffet lunch in Urubamba, with a wide selection of traditional Andean and international dishes.
Transport
- Day 1: private tourist transport from Cusco and throughout the Sacred Valley tour.
- Day 1: Expedition train by PeruRail or Voyager by Inca Rail, from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.
- Day 2: buses up and down between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
- Day 2: Expedition train by PeruRail or Voyager by Inca Rail, from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
- Day 2: private transfer from Ollantaytambo to your hotel in Cusco.
Not included
- Day 1: breakfast and dinner.
- Day 2: lunch and dinner.
- Travel insurance (recommended): cover for flight cancellations or delays, lost or delayed luggage, illness, accidents, trip interruptions and medical assistance.
- Tips (optional).
- Extra costs caused by circumstances beyond our control: adverse weather, itinerary changes for safety reasons, illness, strikes, political instability or changes in government policy.
Price of the Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley tour, 2 days
Rates
| Rate | 2026 price | 2027 price | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult | To be confirmed | To be confirmed | Group from 2 passengers. |
| University student | To be confirmed | To be confirmed | Valid physical university card. |
Booking guarantee
To secure your Machu Picchu entrance and train tickets, a deposit of USD 200.00 per person is required when booking. The balance is paid in cash at our office in Cusco, or as advised by your travel consultant.
Upgrade your experience
| Add-on | Price | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Day 2: lunch at the Café Inkaterra | USD 25per person | A delicious meal with views over the Vilcanota river, in a natural setting perfect for relaxing before the return train. |
| Day 2: lunch at the Sanctuary Lodge Tinkuy | USD 45per person | The best option for lunch right beside Machu Picchu, with a varied buffet in a unique setting a few steps from the citadel. |
| Wayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain entrance | On request | Both hikes can be added to the tour, subject to availability. They require moderate fitness. |
Book in advance
Machu Picchu can be visited all year round, but entrance and train tickets have limited availability and tend to sell out. We recommend booking 3 to 5 months ahead for a wider choice of circuits, entry times and train services.
What to bring on the Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley tour, 2 days
These are the most important things to bring on your trip through the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
Required documents
- Original, valid passport or national ID. It is required to enter Machu Picchu and for the Sacred Valley tickets.
- Valid physical student card, if you booked the student rate.
Luggage and clothing
- A small day backpack for your essentials.
- Comfortable clothing suitable for walking, plus what you need for the night in Aguas Calientes.
- Comfortable footwear with good grip.
- A waterproof jacket or rain poncho, especially between November and March.
- Warm clothing for the Sacred Valley, which sits at a higher altitude.
- A hat or cap and sunglasses.
- A special outfit for your photos at Machu Picchu.
Personal items
- Sunscreen and insect repellent.
- Personal medication.
- A reusable water bottle.
- Light snacks.
- Cash in soles for personal expenses and for buying textiles or handicrafts.
Gear and extras
- Camera or phone and a power bank.
- Headphones.
Important notes
- Travel light for a more comfortable experience.
- Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu have the warm, humid climate of the cloud forest. Some humidity in the hotels is normal.
- Keep your documents and valuables with you at all times.
Frequently asked questions about the Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley tour, 2 days
When is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu can be visited all year round, but it is worth considering the two seasons of the Cusco region. The dry season, from April to October, usually brings sunnier days and clear skies, ideal for enjoying the scenery. The rainy season, from November to March, brings more frequent showers and greener, more luxuriant vegetation.
Whichever time you choose, we recommend booking your entrance as far ahead as possible, since availability is limited and often sells out on certain dates.
Does this tour run every day?
Yes, we run this tour all year round. However, Machu Picchu entrance tickets and train tickets have limited availability, so we recommend booking early to secure your place and access a wider choice of times and circuits.
Which places do we visit on the first day, in the Sacred Valley?
The Sacred Valley tour includes Chinchero and its weaving centre, Moray, the Maras salt pans, Urubamba (where lunch is served) and Ollantaytambo.
How long does the first day last?
The Sacred Valley tour lasts around 10 hours: it starts at 7:30 a.m. and finishes at about 4:00 p.m., before boarding the train to Aguas Calientes.
Is breakfast included on the first day?
No. Breakfast is not included in the programme, so we recommend having it at your hotel before departure or asking for a breakfast box to take with you.
Can I buy textiles or local products during the tour?
Yes. During the visit to the Chinchero weaving centre and the Maras salt pans you have time to see and buy products made by the local communities, such as handmade textiles, alpaca garments and handicrafts.
How many passengers are in the group?
We believe a visit to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu deserves personal attention and a comfortable pace. At Machu Picchu the service is designed for small groups of 2 to 6 passengers, allowing a more exclusive and flexible experience. The Sacred Valley tour runs as a shared group.
If your booking is for 2 passengers, your departure is guaranteed and operated directly by Sakura Expedition, without joining other groups or agencies. If you are travelling alone, we can also help you join a small group already confirmed for the same date; ask your travel consultant about the options.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking 3 to 5 months ahead, especially if you plan to travel in high season. Every year more travellers plan their visit months in advance and, since Machu Picchu entrances have limited capacity, they sell out quickly.
Booking early gives you a wider choice of circuits, entry times and train services.
Which Machu Picchu circuit is included?
This programme can run on any of the three Machu Picchu circuits, depending on availability when the booking is confirmed. Each circuit offers a different experience: walks through the citadel, panoramic views or both combined.
Although many travellers ask for circuit 2, circuits 1 and 3 also show Machu Picchu from unique perspectives. Our team always arranges the best option available for your trip.
Can I choose my entry time to Machu Picchu?
We do everything we can to arrange your preferred entry time. However, times are subject to availability when the booking is confirmed and must fit the itinerary of the tour.
What type of train does the tour include?
The tour includes the Expedition train by PeruRail or the Voyager by Inca Rail, subject to availability. Both have comfortable seats and wide panoramic windows for enjoying the landscapes of the Sacred Valley and the Andes. Which one you travel on depends on availability and each company's timetable.
If you would like a superior experience, you can request an upgrade to the Vistadome or Vistadome Observatory, subject to availability and at an extra cost.
How do I know if this programme is right for me?
It is an excellent way to see the most important sights around Cusco in two days, at your own pace. Thanks to a well-planned itinerary you cover the best of the Sacred Valley and visit Machu Picchu calmly, after a night in Aguas Calientes.
The programme includes entrance tickets, transport, guiding and accommodation, at an easy level of difficulty. We only recommend booking early so you can get the Machu Picchu circuit you prefer.
What is the recommended age for this tour?
It is an excellent option for travellers of all ages, as it requires no long walks or significant physical effort. It is recommended for children from 8 years old, accompanied by their parents, and is ideal for older travellers who want to see Machu Picchu comfortably and safely.
There is no maximum age for this tour. Even so, we recommend checking with your doctor before the trip if you have any particular health condition.
From what age do children pay at Machu Picchu?
Children from 3 years old need a Machu Picchu entrance ticket, with special rates according to age and nationality. To access these rates, the valid passport or ID must be shown when booking and during the visit. Our team will let you know the rates that apply.
How difficult is this tour?
The difficulty is easy. It is designed for travellers who want to see Machu Picchu with a comfortable, cultural and accessible experience, without long walks or demanding treks.
What time do we get back to Cusco?
The return to Cusco is expected at around 7:00 to 8:00 p.m., depending on the train departure time and the operating conditions of the service.
How long is the guided tour at Machu Picchu?
The guided tour lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours, although it may run slightly longer depending on the group's pace. As it is a private service, you have plenty of time to stop, take photographs and learn the history and secrets of Machu Picchu with your expert guide.
Can I add Wayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain to this tour?
Yes. Both can be added, subject to availability. These hikes require moderate fitness, and we recommend them only if you do not suffer from vertigo, especially for the climb up Wayna Picchu. The entrances usually sell out well in advance, so it is best to request them when booking.
Can I bring a suitcase or a large backpack?
For a more comfortable experience, we suggest bringing only a small backpack with your essentials for the day.
Can I take luggage to Aguas Calientes?
Yes. You can take up to 8 kg of luggage on the train to Aguas Calientes. Even so, for a more comfortable visit we recommend carrying only a small backpack with the essentials for Machu Picchu.
Your main luggage can stay at your hotel in Cusco, as most offer free storage for their guests. Some train stations also have a luggage storage service.
Who will meet us on our return to Ollantaytambo station?
On arrival in Ollantaytambo, our staff will be waiting with a sign bearing your name to assist you and take you comfortably back to Cusco.
Does the tour include a transfer to my hotel?
Yes. The service includes the transfer from your hotel in Cusco to the train station and the return from Ollantaytambo to your hotel.
Is the guiding service shared or in a small group?
In the Sacred Valley the guiding service is shared, in groups of up to 17 passengers, which makes for a lively and enriching tour.
At Machu Picchu, for a more exclusive and personal visit, the guiding service is private, with groups of 2 to 6 passengers. If you are travelling alone, please ask our sales team about the options.
Are the transfers private or shared?
The road transfers included in this programme are private, both outbound and on the return, with the exception of the tourist train and the bus up to Machu Picchu.
What is the booking process?
Step 1. Check availability. Write to us at info@sakuraexpedition.com to check available dates. We will send you a personalised booking form for each participant to complete.
Step 2. Passenger details. To arrange your official Machu Picchu entrance and train tickets we need the following details: full name, gender, passport number, date of birth (dd/mm/yyyy) and nationality. Without this information we cannot buy entrances or tickets.
Step 3. Deposit and confirmation. Once we receive the completed forms, we ask for a deposit of USD 200.00 per person in order to buy the entrances and train tickets. We recommend booking early, as places sell out quickly.
Step 4. Final confirmation. Once everything is secured you receive your official confirmation invoice. At that point your booking is 100 % guaranteed.
How is the outstanding balance paid?
The balance can be paid in cash, in US dollars or Peruvian soles, at our office in Cusco or as advised by your travel consultant.
Can I leave my luggage at your office?
Of course. During the trip your main luggage can be stored at our office or at your hotel, both free of charge.
Are tips expected?
Tips are entirely voluntary. Our whole team is paid fairly, so any gratuity is at your discretion.
Why choose Sakura Expedition for your trip?
Sakura Expedition is a 100 % Peruvian local operator specialising in adventure and cultural tourism in Cusco and Peru. We have a team of certified guides and operations staff committed to unique, safe, high-quality experiences. We stand out for responsible and sustainable tourism, respect for local communities and personal attention in every service.
This is what sets us apart:
- Small groups: a more comfortable, personalised experience with more attention from our guides.
- Our own operation and local team: we run our programmes directly, which lets us maintain high standards of quality, punctuality and organisation.
- Certified professional guides: a team that shares the history, culture and traditions of Peru with genuine passion.
- Personalised service: we are with you before, during and after your trip, with permanent assistance and prompt answers.
- Responsible, sustainable tourism: we work alongside partner communities, respecting their traditions and contributing to the development of local families.
- Commitment to safety: safety protocols, suitable equipment and trained staff.
- A certified local company: we are a 100 % Peruvian company based in Cusco, and this year we earned the CALTUR Gold Certification, the highest recognition of tourism quality in Peru.
