The 2-Day Tour: Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu from Cuzco offers an immersive exploration of Peru’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. Participants embark on a guided journey through the Sacred Valley, discovering the vibrant Chinchero market, the intricate Moray agricultural terraces, and the captivating Maras salt mines. The highlight of the tour, however, lies in the comprehensive visit to the iconic Machu Picchu, where travelers can explore the history and significance of this remarkable Inca citadel. With a blend of guided experiences and independent exploration, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure that leaves visitors with a deeper appreciation for the wonders of Peru.
Good To Know
- This 2-day tour covers the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, providing a comprehensive experience of Peru’s UNESCO World Heritage site and cultural heritage.
- The tour includes transportation, guided visits to sites like Chinchero market, Moray agricultural terraces, Maras salt mines, and the Ollantaytambo fortress.
- Travelers can enjoy scenic PeruRail train rides, a guided tour of Machu Picchu, and free time for independent exploration of the iconic citadel.
- The tour is highly rated, with a 5.0 rating and a Badge of Excellence, ensuring a quality experience for travelers.
- The tour package includes breakfast, transportation, guides, and entry tickets, with an optional buffet lunch available for an additional cost.
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Tour Overview and Highlights
The 2-day Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour from Cusco offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of Peru’s renowned UNESCO World Heritage site.
Boasting a Badge of Excellence and a perfect 5.0 rating from 20 reviews, this immersive experience includes a train trip, Sacred Valley tour, hotel pickup, and all necessary tickets.
Visitors will marvel at the iconic Machu Picchu ruins and discover the region’s rich cultural heritage, from the Chinchero market to the Moray agricultural terraces.
With scenic PeruRail train rides and a guided tour of key Machu Picchu sites, this tour provides an unforgettable journey through Peru’s iconic landmarks.
Sacred Valley Exploration
What does the first day of the tour entail?
The tour begins with hotel pickup at 7:30 AM, followed by a visit to the Chinchero market and colonial temple.
Next, travelers will explore the Moray agricultural terraces and the Maras salt mines.
After a buffet lunch in Urubamba, the group will tour the Ollantaytambo fortress, inhabited by descendants of the Incas.
At 3:37 PM, they’ll board the train to Aguas Calientes, arriving at 5:00 PM for an overnight stay.
Throughout the day, the tour provides insights into the Sacred Valley’s rich history and cultural significance.
Chinchero Market and Colonial Temple
The tour begins with a visit to the Chinchero market and colonial temple.
Chinchero is known for its vibrant market, where locals sell traditional textiles, pottery, and other crafts. Travelers can explore the stalls and interact with the artisans.
Adjacent to the market is the Chinchero Colonial Temple, a 17th-century Catholic church built on the ruins of an Inca palace. The temple features beautiful frescoes and ornate architectural details, offering a glimpse into the region’s colonial history.
Visitors can wander through the temple’s halls and courtyards, gaining a deeper understanding of the blending of Inca and Spanish cultures in the Sacred Valley.
Moray Agricultural Terraces
Nestled in the heart of the Sacred Valley, Moray’s agricultural terraces stand as a testament to the Inca’s ingenuity and agricultural prowess.
These unique, circular depressions were used as an experimental agricultural laboratory, allowing the Incas to study the effects of different microclimates on crop cultivation.
Visitors can explore:
- Tiered, concentric terraces descending nearly 500 feet
- Temperature variations of up to 27°F between the top and bottom levels
- Evidence of ancient irrigation systems and farming techniques
- Stunning vistas overlooking the surrounding mountains and valleys
- Insights into the Inca’s advanced understanding of agricultural science
Maras Salt Mines
Adjacent to the Urubamba River, the Maras salt mines have been in operation since the time of the Incas. Thousands of salt pools dot the mountainside, where local communities have been harvesting salt for centuries. Visitors can witness the traditional methods used to extract the precious mineral, which involves channeling spring water into the pools and allowing the sun to evaporate the water, leaving behind salt crystals.
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | Inca Empire |
| Production | Artisanal |
| Significance | Cultural, Economic |
| Sustainability | Renewable |
| Visitors | Encouraged |
This unique cultural landscape offers a glimpse into the region’s enduring salt-harvesting traditions.
Ollantaytambo Fortress
Continuing the journey through the Sacred Valley, the tour explores the historic Ollantaytambo fortress, a testament to the architectural prowess of the Inca Empire.
This well-preserved site offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the Inca civilization:
- Massive stone terraces and walls that once served as a royal estate and military stronghold
- Impressive stone quarries where Inca builders extracted and transported massive blocks of stone
- Intriguing Temple of the Sun, showcasing the Inca’s advanced understanding of astronomy and engineering
- Winding cobblestone streets and canals that have been continuously inhabited since the 13th century
- Opportunity to interact with local Quechua people, descendants of the Inca, who call Ollantaytambo home.
Machu Picchu Tour
The second day of the tour focuses on the crown jewel of the Inca Empire – Machu Picchu.
Travelers start the morning with an early breakfast before taking a 30-minute bus ride to the iconic site. A 2-hour guided tour introduces them to Machu Picchu’s key landmarks and historical significance.
Afterward, they’re free to explore the citadel independently, seeing the majesty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The return journey involves taking the train back to Ollantaytambo and then a car to Cusco, arriving around 6:30 PM.
This comprehensive itinerary ensures visitors make the most of their time at this awe-inspiring ancient wonder.
Inclusions and Additional Information
The tour includes breakfast, the Sacred Valley tour with transportation, guide services, and admission tickets.
Along With these core components, the package also includes:
- Train tickets for the Ollantaytambo-Machu Picchu-Ollantaytambo route
- An optional buffet lunch in Urubamba for $20 per person
- Confirmation upon booking
- Not wheelchair accessible, but near public transportation
- Maximum group size of 12 travelers
While there’s an optional lunch available, the tour’s primary inclusions ensure a comprehensive exploration of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, offering an immersive cultural experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Bring to This Tour?
Travelers should bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, warm layers, a small backpack, snacks, and any necessary medications. It’s also a good idea to bring water and cash for optional activities or purchases.
Are There Any Special Requirements for the Train Ride?
The train ride to Machu Picchu has few special requirements. Passengers should bring their tickets and be prepared to store any large bags, as space is limited. Proper attire and comfortable shoes are recommended for the scenic journey.
Can I Visit Machu Picchu Without the Tour?
Yes, you can visit Machu Picchu without the tour. Visitors can purchase tickets and transportation independently to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site on their own. However, a guided tour provides more context and highlights key sites.
Is There an Option to Extend the Stay in Aguas Calientes?
Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Aguas Calientes. The tour itinerary includes an overnight in Aguas Calientes, allowing guests to explore Machu Picchu further on their own the following day before returning to Cusco.
How Accessible Is This Tour for Travelers With Disabilities?
The tour is not wheelchair accessible, as stated in the information. However, travelers with limited mobility may be able to participate with assistance. It’s best to contact the tour operator directly to discuss any special needs.
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The Sum Up
The 2-day tour from Cuzco offers an unforgettable journey through Peru’s Sacred Valley and the iconic Machu Picchu. Travelers will enjoy the region’s rich history and stunning landscapes, exploring Chinchero, Moray, Maras, and Ollantaytambo before embarking on a comprehensive tour of the Machu Picchu site. This tour provides a perfect blend of cultural and natural wonders, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to discover the heart of Peru.