The Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu 2-Day / 1-Night Tour is the most balanced and relaxing way to experience the monumental architecture and agricultural ingenuity of the Incas. By connecting the historical exploration of Pisac and Ollantaytambo with an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, you will avoid rushing and be among the first visitors to enter Machu Picchu in the morning, enjoying early golden-hour views before midday crowds arrive.
If you have limited time and only wish to visit the archaeological ruins of the valley, see our Classic Sacred Valley 1-Day Tour. For an adrenaline-filled multi-sport journey, explore the Inka Jungle Premium 4-Day Tour.
| FEATURE | SACRED VALLEY & MACHU PICCHU (2D) | CLASSIC SACRED VALLEY (1D) |
|---|---|---|
| Total Duration | 2 Days / 1 Night with hotel in Aguas Calientes | 1 Full Day (Return to Cusco around 18:30 hrs) |
| Machu Picchu Entry | Included (Official Citadel ticket & guided tour) | Not included (Valley archaeological circuit only) |
| Scenic Train Ride | Included (Expedition/Voyager round trip) | Not applicable (100% overland tour bus) |
| Pace & Experience | Relaxed and immersive with morning Citadel access | Fast-paced, ideal for travelers with limited days |
Around 9:00 a.m. we will pick up the group from their respective hotels and then start the journey to Ollantaytambo to take the train towards Aguas Calientes where we will spend the night prior to entering the Machu Picchu archaeological complex.
This first day we will visit the ancient Inca citadel of Pisac (in Quechua Partridge) built in the shape of this animal. It is characterized by being full of agricultural terraces that had a triple function: to be a military, religious and agricultural structure.
Then we will continue towards the city of Urubamba where we will have a delicious buffet lunch (typical food) in a tourist restaurant. From there we will go to the only living stone Inca town: Ollantaytambo. We will tour this archaeological complex with our guide.
Finally, we will board the train at the Ollantaytambo station (at 19:00 or 21:00 hours depending on schedule availability) towards the town of Aguas Calientes. From there they will transfer us to our hotel where we will spend the night prior to the visit of Machu Picchu.
In the morning, and according to your entry time, you will take the bus up to Machu Picchu for your subsequent entry and tour for approximately 2 hours guided by our guide. Then you will have free time to explore the citadel on your own. Those who have tickets to one of the optional mountains “Huaynapicchu” or “Machu Picchu Mountain” will be able to access them after finishing the guided tour.
In the afternoon you will be able to descend to the town of Aguas Calientes in search of rest and a refreshing lunch. Finally you will have to approach the train station (according to defined schedule) to board the return train towards Ollantaytambo where our tourist bus will be waiting to continue the return to the city of Cusco.
Below are the details and features of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour:
Cusco
To coordinate
The dry season from April to October is the best time for this tour. During these months, you will enjoy clear blue skies, excellent views across the Andes, and perfect lighting for photography in Machu Picchu.
You will stay in Aguas Calientes town at a certified 3-star hotel. All rooms include private en-suite bathrooms, 24/7 hot water, reliable high-speed Wi-Fi, and a complimentary breakfast buffet.
Official entrance tickets to the main panoramic circuits are included based on availability at the time of booking. All circuits allow comprehensive views of temples, agricultural terraces, and classic postcard viewpoints.
A buffet lunch in the Sacred Valley (Day 1) and hotel breakfast (Day 2) are included. Dinner in Aguas Calientes and lunch after your Machu Picchu tour are open for you to discover local Andean dining options.
You should bring a small daypack of up to 5 kg (11 lbs) for the two days, complying with PeruRail/Inca Rail luggage policies. Large suitcases can be securely stored at your Cusco hotel free of charge.
