Itinerary
Discover what awaits you in the Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley Tour – 2 Days
day 1
DAY 1: CUSCO - CHINCHERO - MORAY - MARAS SALT MINES - URUBAMBA - OLLANTAYTAMBO - AGUAS CALIENTES
Set off on an adventure through the wonders of the Sacred Valley!
Textile traditions, Inca agricultural engineering, salt pools and a living Inca town, before taking the train to Aguas Calientes. The Sacred Valley tour is done in a shared group of up to 16 travelers.
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Chinchero: traditions that keep the spirit of the Andes alive
By tourist transport, from 7:30 a.m. · Cusco → Chinchero
We leave Cusco for Chinchero, a charming Andean town where the Inca legacy lives alongside colonial heritage. We will see its ancient Inca walls and colonial church and, in a local demonstration, you will discover how ancestral weaving techniques and natural dyes, passed down from generation to generation, keep one of Peru’s most fascinating cultural expressions alive.
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Moray: the Incas’ agricultural laboratory
By tourist transport · Chinchero → Moray
We continue to Moray, an extraordinary complex of circular terraces descending into the earth. Here you will see how the Incas used natural conditions to experiment with different crops, showing a remarkable understanding of their environment.
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Maras Salt Mines
By tourist transport · Moray → Maras
We visit the impressive Maras Salt Mines, where thousands of salt pools draw a white landscape among the mountains. Fed by a natural saltwater spring, they are still worked with traditional techniques, a legacy that connects local families with an ancestral activity.
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Buffet lunch in Urubamba
By tourist transport · Maras → Urubamba
After a morning full of discoveries, we reach Urubamba to enjoy a buffet lunch with regional products, the perfect moment to relax and recharge.
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Ollantaytambo: a living Inca town
Guided visit on foot · Urubamba → Ollantaytambo
In the afternoon we explore Ollantaytambo, one of the most fascinating places in the Sacred Valley: its main archaeological areas, its imposing terraces and its stone buildings, as we discover the history of this ancient ceremonial and strategic center. Its streets and channels still keep part of their ancestral layout.
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Train to Aguas Calientes
By tourist train · Ollantaytambo → Aguas Calientes
After the visit, we board the train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). Along the way, the Andean landscape gradually turns into the lush vegetation of the cloud forest, following the Vilcanota River. On arrival, our staff will take you to your hotel and you will have free time to stroll around town or, if you wish, visit the hot springs on your own before resting.
Day details
- Group: Shared, up to 16 travelers
- Sacred Valley schedule: approx. 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Meals: Buffet lunch in Urubamba
- Accommodation: Hatun Inti 3-star hotel or similar
What is this day like? check our photos
day 2
DAY 2: AGUAS CALIENTES - MACHU PICCHU - CUSCO
The big moment! Discover the magic of Machu Picchu.
After a restful night, you reach the Inca citadel early and full of energy, with a private guide for your group.
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Ride up to Machu Picchu
By bus, about 30 minutes · Aguas Calientes → Machu Picchu
After a good breakfast, we head with our guide to the bus station to ride up to the entrance of the citadel. As its sacred mountains and ancient buildings come into view, an unforgettable experience begins.
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Machu Picchu Highlight
Guided visit, about 2 to 3 hours · Machu Picchu citadel
With your professional guide, you will explore this extraordinary sanctuary: its temples, ceremonial enclosures, agricultural terraces and the secrets of a civilization that left an indelible mark on history. As it is a private service, you will have time to listen to the explanations, take in the scenery and take photos, depending on the assigned circuit and visiting rules.
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Free time in Aguas Calientes
By bus and at your own pace · Machu Picchu → Aguas Calientes
We take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, where you will have free time for lunch, to explore the town or, if you wish, to visit the famous hot springs on your own, keeping your train time in mind.
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Return to Cusco
By tourist train and private transport · Aguas Calientes → Ollantaytambo → Cusco
In the afternoon, we board the return train to Ollantaytambo, where our vehicle will be waiting to take you straight to your hotel in Cusco. You will arrive at approximately 7:00 to 8:00 p.m., with the memory of having walked through one of the most fascinating wonders of the world.
Day details
- Group: Private, 2 to 6 travelers
- Guided visit: 2 to 3 hours
- Return to Cusco: approx. 7:00 to 8:00 p.m.
- Meals: Breakfast at the hotel
The best of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu in 2 days, with a night in Aguas Calientes. Prefer to go straight to Machu Picchu? Discover the Machu Picchu Tour by Train with Hotel 2 Days.
What is this day like? check our photos
Includes
Day 1: Sacred Valley
- Upgraded small group: Shared, up to 16 travelers.
- Information before the trip.
- Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco.
- Super Sacred Valley tour: Chinchero, Moray, Maras Salt Mines, Urubamba and Ollantaytambo.
- Professional bilingual guide: In English or Spanish.
- Entrance fees: Partial Tourist Ticket and Maras Salt Mines entrance.
- Buffet lunch in Urubamba.
- 1 hotel night in Aguas Calientes: Hatun Inti 3-star hotel or similar, in a double or matrimonial room.
Day 2: Machu Picchu
- Official Machu Picchu entrance ticket: We arrange it once your booking is confirmed, according to availability and the assigned time slot, on one of these circuits: Circuit 2 (Routes 2A or 2B), with panoramic views and the main sectors of the citadel; Circuit 3 (Route 3B), through the lower sector; or Circuit 1 (Route 1B), with panoramic views from the Guardhouse. We always arrange the best option available for your date.
- Private group of 2 to 6 travelers: For a more personalized experience.
- Professional bilingual guide at Machu Picchu: Accompanies you during the visit, assists you and answers your questions.
- Ongoing assistance throughout the trip.
Transportation
- Tourist transport: From your hotel in Cusco through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo.
- Outbound train: Expedition or Voyager, from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.
- Buses: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu and Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes.
- Return train: Expedition or Voyager, from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
- Private return transfer: From Ollantaytambo to your hotel in Cusco.
Not include
Meals
- Day 1: Breakfast and dinner.
- Day 2: Lunch and dinner.
Optional
- Train upgrades and special lunches: See rates under Additional services (Prices tab).
- Tips: Optional.
- Travel insurance (recommended): For greater peace of mind, we recommend insurance covering flight cancellations or delays, lost or delayed luggage, illness, accidents, trip interruptions, loss of tourist services due to delays, as well as medical assistance and personal protection throughout your adventure.
Unforeseen events
- Additional expenses due to causes beyond the agency’s control: adverse weather, itinerary changes for safety reasons, illness, changes in government policy, political instability, strikes or similar circumstances.
Prices Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley Tour – 2 Days
Rates per person
Traveling solo? The tour is confirmed with a minimum of 2 people. Message us to check availability for your date.
Requirements for the student discount
Accepted
- Physical university ID card (PVC card)
- Valid during the year of travel
- Showing full name, photo, university and expiration date
Not accepted
- ISIC cards
- Digital certificates
- Screenshots
Send a copy when you book.
Payment
Option 1
Full payment at booking
Pay the total when you make your booking.
Option 2
Deposit of US$ 200 per person
Secure your spot; the balance is paid no later than the day before the tour.
Additional services
- Vistadome train upgrade (outbound, day 1) – US$ 38 per person: Travel to Aguas Calientes with spectacular panoramic views, comfortable seats and a superior travel experience on one of the most popular trains.
- Vistadome train upgrade (return, day 2) – US$ 25 per person: Return to Cusco with spectacular panoramic views, comfortable seats and a superior travel experience.
- Vistadome Observatory train upgrade (return, day 2) – US$ 48 per person: A unique experience, with panoramic windows, an open-air observatory car and live Andean music as you take in the Sacred Valley scenery.
- Lunch at Sanctuary Lodge Tinkuy (Machu Picchu) – US$ 45 per person: The best option for lunch next to Machu Picchu, with a varied buffet in a unique setting just steps from the citadel.
- Lunch at Café Inkaterra – US$ 25 per person: A dining experience in a natural setting by the Vilcanota River, ideal for relaxing and rounding off your visit with excellent food.
Need accommodation in Cusco?
Our team will help you find the best option for your stay.
Packaging list
- Documents and money: Original, valid passport or ID, valid physical student card (if applicable) and cash in soles.
- Clothing and footwear: Comfortable walking clothes, a waterproof jacket or rain poncho, a hat or cap, comfortable shoes with good grip and a special outfit for your photos.
- Protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen and insect repellent.
- Health: Personal medication.
- Gear: A small daypack of about 30 liters, a reusable water bottle, light snacks, a camera or phone and a portable charger / power bank.
Recomendations
- Choose the best season: Cusco has two seasons. The dry season, from April to October, usually brings sunnier days and less rain; the rainy season, from November to March, has more frequent rain and greener landscapes. Weather can vary by month and area.
- Book your ticket early: Once your dates are set, check circuit availability and secure your tickets through official channels. Availability depends on the date, the circuit and demand.
- Arrange your services: Book trains, accommodation, flights and transfers in good time to coordinate your itinerary from Cusco to Machu Picchu.
- Huayna Picchu: If you want to climb this mountain, check availability and book it in advance, as spaces are limited.
- Travel documents: Make sure your passport or ID is valid and that your booking details match it. If you renew your passport after booking, check the conditions for your tickets and services first.
- Plan with us: Our team can help you coordinate tickets, trains, accommodation and experiences for your dates, so you can enjoy Machu Picchu with careful planning and personalized attention.
F.A.Qs
When is the best time for the Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley tour?
You can do it all year round, but it is worth keeping Cusco’s two seasons in mind. The dry season, from April to October, usually brings sunnier days and clear skies, ideal for the scenery. The rainy season, from November to March, has more frequent rain and greener, lusher vegetation. Whatever the season, we recommend booking as early as possible, as Machu Picchu tickets are limited and sell out quickly on some dates.
Does the tour run every day?
Yes, it runs all year round. Even so, Machu Picchu tickets and train tickets are limited, so we recommend booking in advance to secure your spot and have more choice of times and circuits.
Which places do we visit in the Sacred Valley?
On day 1 you visit Chinchero and its textile center, Moray, the Maras Salt Mines, Urubamba, where lunch is served, and Ollantaytambo.
How long is the Sacred Valley tour on day 1?
It starts at 7:30 a.m. and ends around 4:00 p.m., before boarding the train to Aguas Calientes.
Is breakfast included on day 1?
No. We recommend having breakfast at your hotel before departure or asking for a box breakfast to take with you on the tour.
Can I buy textiles or local products?
Yes. At the Chinchero textile center and the Maras Salt Mines you will have time to see and buy products made by local communities, such as handwoven textiles, alpaca garments and crafts.
How many travelers are on the Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley tour?
We believe this trip deserves personalized attention and a comfortable pace. At Machu Picchu the service is for small groups of 2 to 6 travelers, and the Sacred Valley tour is done in a shared group. If your booking is for 2 people, your departure is guaranteed and operated directly by Sakura Expedition, without joining other groups or agencies. If you are traveling solo, we can also help you join a group already confirmed for the same date; check the options with your travel advisor.
How far in advance should I book the Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley tour?
We recommend booking 3 to 5 months ahead, especially in high season. Every year more travelers plan their visit months in advance and, since Machu Picchu tickets have limited capacity, they sell out quickly. Booking early gives you more choice of circuits, entry times and trains.
Which Machu Picchu circuit is included?
The tour can be done on any of the three Machu Picchu circuits, depending on availability when the booking is confirmed. Each offers a different experience: a walk through the citadel, panoramic views or both. Although many travelers ask for Circuit 2, Circuits 1 and 3 also let you enjoy Machu Picchu from unique perspectives. Our team will always arrange the best option available for your trip.
Can I choose my Machu Picchu entry time?
We will do our best to get your preferred time, but it depends on availability when the booking is confirmed and must fit the tour itinerary.
Which train is included, and can I upgrade it?
It includes the Expedition or Voyager train, both ways. For a superior experience, you can request an upgrade, subject to availability and at an additional cost:
- Day 1, outbound on the Vistadome train: US$ 38 per person.
- Day 2, return on the Vistadome train: US$ 25 per person.
- Day 2, return on the Vistadome Observatory train: US$ 48 per person.
How do I know if the Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley tour is right for me?
It is an excellent way to see Cusco’s main highlights in two days at your own pace. With an optimized itinerary, you visit the best of the Sacred Valley and explore Machu Picchu calmly after a night in Aguas Calientes. It includes tickets, transport, guide and accommodation; we only recommend booking early to get your preferred Machu Picchu circuit.
From what age is the tour recommended?
It suits travelers of almost all ages, as it requires no long hikes. We recommend it for children from age 8, accompanied by their parents, and it is a great option for older adults. There is no maximum age; even so, if you have a health condition, check with your doctor before the trip.
From what age do children pay at Machu Picchu?
Children need a Machu Picchu ticket from age 3 and get special rates depending on their age and nationality. To get them, they must show a valid passport or ID when booking and during the visit. Our team will let you know the applicable rates.
How difficult is the tour?
Its difficulty is moderate. It is a cultural experience with no demanding treks: you walk during the guided visits at the archaeological sites of the Sacred Valley and at Machu Picchu.
What time do we get back to Cusco?
The return to Cusco on day 2 is expected between approximately 7:00 and 8:00 p.m., depending on the train schedule and operating conditions.
How long is the guided visit at Machu Picchu?
It lasts about 2 to 3 hours and may run a little longer depending on the group’s pace. As it is a private service, you will have time to stop, take photos and learn in detail about the history and secrets of Machu Picchu with your guide.
Can I add Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
Yes, both options can be added, subject to availability. These hikes require moderate fitness and are not recommended if you suffer from vertigo, especially the Huayna Picchu climb. Tickets usually sell out in advance, so it is best to request them when you book.
Can I bring luggage to Aguas Calientes?
Yes. You can bring up to 8 kg (17.6 lb) of luggage on the train. Even so, to travel more comfortably, we recommend bringing only a small backpack with the essentials. Your main luggage can stay free of charge at your hotel in Cusco or at our office; some train stations also offer luggage storage.
Who meets us when we return to Ollantaytambo station?
In Ollantaytambo, our staff will be waiting for you with a sign bearing your name, to assist you and take you back to Cusco.
Does the tour include transfers from and to my hotel?
Yes. It includes pick-up from your hotel in Cusco on day 1 and the return from Ollantaytambo to your hotel on day 2.
Is the guide shared or private?
In the Sacred Valley, the guide is shared, in groups of up to 16 travelers, for a lively experience along the way. At Machu Picchu, the guide is fully private, for groups of 2 to 6 travelers, so you and your group can enjoy a more comfortable, flexible and personalized visit. If you are traveling solo, check the options with your sales executive.
Are the transfers private or shared?
The return transfer from Ollantaytambo to Cusco is private. The tourist train and the Machu Picchu buses are shared services.
What is the booking process?
1. Availability check: Write to us at info@sakuraexpedition.com or via WhatsApp at +51 941 411 418 to check available dates. We will send you a booking form that each participant must complete.
2. Traveler details: To buy your Machu Picchu ticket and train tickets, we need each participant’s full name, gender, passport number, date of birth (dd/mm/yyyy) and nationality. Without this information we cannot buy tickets.
3. Deposit: Once we receive the completed forms, we request a deposit of US$ 200 per person to buy the entrance and train tickets. Book early, as spaces sell out quickly.
4. Final confirmation: Once everything is secured, you will receive your official confirmation invoice and your booking will be 100% guaranteed.
How do I pay the balance?
You can pay the balance in cash, in US dollars or Peruvian soles, at our office in Cusco or as instructed by your travel advisor.
Is tipping customary?
Tips are entirely voluntary. Our whole team is paid fairly, so any gratuity is up to you.
