Cusco: 2-Day Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Guided Tour

Setting out on a two-day journey through Peru’s iconic Sacred Valley and the legendary Machu Picchu offers travelers an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy the country’s captivating history and culture. From exploring the architectural marvels of Ollantaytambo to marveling at the salt-making traditions of Maras, this guided tour promises a comprehensive exploration of the region’s most celebrated sights. But the true pièce de résistance awaits on the second day as visitors uncover the secrets of the ‘Lost City’ of the Andes – Machu Picchu. With an optional hike up Huayna Picchu, the experience promises to leave a lasting impression on even the most seasoned of travelers.

Key Points

• A two-day guided tour exploring the cultural heritage and stunning landscapes of Cusco’s Sacred Valley and the iconic Machu Picchu.
• Visits to renowned Inca archaeological sites, including Ollantaytambo, Moray, and Maras, providing insights into the region’s history and agricultural practices.
• Opportunity to immerse in the local culture, enjoy a delightful lunch in Urubamba, and prepare for the next day’s exploration of Machu Picchu.
• Discover the awe-inspiring ruins, stone structures, and terraced architecture of Machu Picchu, the ‘Lost City’ nestled in the Andes mountains.
• Optional hike up Huayna Picchu, a challenging but rewarding experience offering panoramic views of the Machu Picchu archaeological site.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This two-day guided tour offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of Cusco’s Sacred Valley and the iconic Machu Picchu site. Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy the region’s rich cultural heritage, visiting renowned archaeological sites and experiencing the breathtaking natural landscapes that have captivated visitors for generations.

On the first day, the tour delves into the Sacred Valley, exploring the impressive Ollantaytambo ruins, the unique Moray agricultural terraces, and the mesmerizing Maras salt mines.

The second day is dedicated to the highlight of the trip – a guided visit to the magnificent Machu Picchu, with an optional ascent of Huayna Picchu for those seeking an extra challenge.

Throughout the tour, travelers will be accompanied by knowledgeable guides who’ll bring the history and significance of these remarkable destinations to life.

Day 1: Exploring Sacred Valley

Typically, the first day of the tour begins with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco, as the journey to the Sacred Valley unfolds. The first stop is the impressive ruins of Ollantaytambo, an Inca fortress that showcases the architectural prowess of the civilization. Next, the tour ventures to the unique Inca agricultural site of Moray, where you can marvel at the circular terraces believed to have been used for crop experimentation. The final stop is the Maras salt mines, where you’ll witness the centuries-old practice of salt extraction from natural salt pans. After a delightful lunch in Urubamba, the first day’s adventure comes to an end, leaving you eager for the next day’s exploration of Machu Picchu.

Site	Significance	Experience
Ollantaytambo	Inca fortress showcasing architectural brilliance	Explore the impressive ruins and learn about Inca engineering
Moray	Inca agricultural experimentation site	Marvel at the circular terraces and imagine ancient crop trials
Maras Salt Mines	Centuries-old salt extraction practice	Witness the unique process of harvesting salt from natural pans

Highlights of Ollantaytambo

Towering over the quaint town of Ollantaytambo, the Inca fortress stands as a testament to the engineering prowess of the ancient civilization, offering visitors a captivating glimpse into the past.

Visitors can explore the impressive stone terraces, storehouses, and temples that once housed an entire Inca settlement. The site’s strategic location atop a hilltop provides stunning vistas of the surrounding Andean peaks and the Urubamba River below.

Guests can wander through the maze-like streets of the old town, which have been continuously inhabited since the 13th century, and enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the region. The well-preserved ruins and the vibrant local community make Ollantaytambo a must-visit on any Sacred Valley itinerary.

Marveling at Moray

Amidst the breathtaking landscape of the Sacred Valley, visitors can’t help but marvel at the mysterious Inca ruins of Moray.

This unique archaeological site features a series of enormous, concentric terraced depressions, which some believe were used as an agricultural research laboratory by the Incas.

The circular terraces, which descend over 100 feet, are thought to have been used to study the effects of different microclimates on crop cultivation.

Today, visitors can explore the site, which offers stunning views and a chance to imagine the agricultural ingenuity of the Inca Empire.

The site’s well-preserved state and fascinating history make it a must-see stop on any Sacred Valley tour.

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Visiting Maras Salt Mines

After exploring the awe-inspiring ruins of Moray, visitors can continue their journey through the Sacred Valley by making their way to the remarkable Maras salt mines.

These ancient salt ponds, dotting the mountainside, have been harvested for centuries, creating a striking visual display. As you wander through the maze of salt ponds, you’ll be amazed by the intricate network of channels that distribute the salty water.

Witness the locals carrying on the traditional methods of salt collection, filling their woven baskets with the precious mineral. It’s a fascinating glimpse into Peru’s rich cultural heritage and a highlight of any visit to the Sacred Valley.

Day 2: Journey to Machu Picchu

On the second day, travelers will embark on the highly anticipated journey to the iconic Machu Picchu, the crown jewel of the Inca civilization.

They’ll board an early morning train from Ollantaytambo, enjoying the scenic ride through the lush, verdant landscapes of the Urubamba Valley.

Once they reach the town of Aguas Calientes, they’ll then take a short bus ride up the winding mountain roads to the entrance of the extraordinary Machu Picchu.

There, they’ll explore the complex’s awe-inspiring ruins, stone structures, and terraced architecture, all while learning about the site’s history and significance from their knowledgeable guide.

For those seeking an extra challenge, an optional hike up Huayna Picchu offers stunning vistas of the citadel and the surrounding mountains.

Discovering the Lost City

At the entrance to the ancient Inca citadel, travelers are immediately struck by the sheer scale and grandeur of Machu Picchu, the so-called ‘Lost City‘ nestled high in the Andes mountains.

As visitors ascend the stone steps, the breathtaking panorama unfolds – intricate terraces, plazas, and temples that seem to defy gravity.

The guided tour offers insights into the site’s fascinating history, from its construction as a royal retreat to its mysterious abandonment centuries ago.

Wandering through the immaculately preserved ruins, one can almost sense the presence of the Inca Emperor and his court.

With the option to climb Huayna Picchu for an elevated view, the experience of Machu Picchu is both humbling and awe-inspiring.

Optional Huayna Picchu Hike

Towering over the iconic ruins of Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu offers adventurous visitors a chance to scale the mountain’s steep, winding trails and be rewarded with breathtaking, bird’s-eye views of the ancient Inca citadel.

Trekking to the top of this iconic peak, which stands at an elevation of over 8,900 feet, provides a thrilling and challenging experience for those seeking a more immersive exploration of the Machu Picchu archaeological site.

The optional Huayna Picchu hike isn’t for the faint of heart, as the trail can be narrow and strenuous, with steep sections and stone steps.

However, for those up for the challenge, the panoramic vistas from the summit are truly awe-inspiring, offering a unique perspective on the grandeur of Machu Picchu.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Group Size Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no specific group size restrictions for this tour. Participants can expect a comfortable and personalized experience, with the guide tailoring the pace and activities to suit the group’s needs.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, a lunch is provided in Urubamba, and there may be limited opportunities to buy additional snacks or beverages along the way.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Beyond 2 Days?

Yes, the tour can be extended beyond 2 days. Travelers can opt for multi-day packages that include additional sites like Pisac, Chinchero, and more time to explore Machu Picchu. Extended tours provide a more comprehensive Sacred Valley experience.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Additional Sites?

Customization is possible on this tour. Travelers can work with the tour operator to include additional sites along the itinerary, such as the Pisac market or the Moray archaeological site, to tailor the experience to their interests.

What Should I Pack for the Tour to Ensure My Comfort?

To stay comfortable, pack layers, sturdy hiking boots, sun protection, snacks, and plenty of water. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery. With the right gear, you’ll be ready to explore Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley in comfort.

Recap

This two-day tour offers a captivating journey through Peru’s Sacred Valley, culminating in the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu.

Visitors will marvel at the architectural wonders of Ollantaytambo, the remarkable agricultural experiments of Moray, and the centuries-old salt extraction of the Maras Salt Mines.

The trip culminates with the opportunity to explore the ‘Lost City’ of the Andes and, for the adventurous, an optional hike up the iconic Huayna Picchu for unparalleled views.

You can check availability for your dates here: