Machu Picchu & Sacred Valley (2 Days)

Machu Picchu, the iconic Incan citadel, has captivated travelers for decades. Coupled with the breathtaking scenery of the Sacred Valley, this 2-day tour promises an immersive experience into Peru’s rich history and culture. From exploring the vibrant Pisac market to discovering the architectural wonders of Machu Picchu, this personalized adventure offers an unforgettable journey. With a knowledgeable guide and a small group size, you’ll uncover the stories behind these magnificent sites and gain a deeper understanding of the Incan empire’s legacy. Prepare to be amazed as you step into the footsteps of the ancient Incas and witness the true wonder of this extraordinary destination.

Good To Know

• A 2-day guided excursion from Cusco to explore the Sacred Valley and the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
• Visit the vibrant Pisac handicraft market and archaeological sites, followed by lunch in Urubamba and an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes.
• Guided tour of Machu Picchu on the second day, covering the main areas and providing insights into the site’s history, architecture, and cultural significance.
• Opportunity to interact with local artisans, enjoy Andean cuisine, and immerse in the lively culture of the Sacred Valley.
• Tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, accommodation, breakfast, and lunch, with a maximum group size of 15 for a personalized experience.

Trip Overview

This 2-day excursion from Cusco provides travelers the opportunity to explore the stunning Sacred Valley and the iconic Machu Picchu.

The trip begins with a visit to Pisac, where you’ll discover the vibrant handicraft market and the archaeological complex. After lunch in Urubamba, you’ll spend the night in Aguas Calientes before visiting Machu Picchu on the second day.

During the guided tour, you’ll explore the main areas of this renowned Inca citadel and have free time to soak in the breathtaking views on your own.

Throughout the journey, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience with a small group of no more than 15 participants.

Itinerary and Highlights

The 2-day trip begins with a pickup from Cusco hotels within the historic center at 8:00 AM.

The first day explores Pisac, where travelers can browse the lively handicraft market and visit the impressive Inca archaeological complex. After lunch in Urubamba, the tour continues to other Sacred Valley highlights.

The second day starts with breakfast before the transfer to Machu Picchu. A guided tour covers the main areas of this iconic Inca citadel, followed by free time to wander and soak in the magnificent views on your own.

The tour includes:

• Guided visit of Machu Picchu
• Entrance ticket to the Sacred Valley
• Accommodation, lunch, and breakfast

Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

On the second day, the tour includes a guided visit of the iconic Machu Picchu.

Travelers will explore the archaeological site with a knowledgeable guide, learning about the history, architecture, and significance of this ancient Inca citadel.

The tour covers the main areas of Machu Picchu, such as the Intihuatana, the Temple of the Sun, and the Inca Bridge.

Afterward, guests have free time to wander the ruins at their own pace, taking in the breathtaking views and capturing memorable photos.

With the guided component, visitors gain a deeper understanding of Machu Picchu’s cultural and historical importance, enhancing the overall experience of this wonder of the world.

Exploring Pisac and Urubamba

Beginning the day with a visit to the vibrant Pisac, travelers explore the renowned handicraft market, browsing an array of traditional Peruvian wares and local artisanal products.

After, they continue to Urubamba, a charming town nestled in the heart of the Sacred Valley.

Here, they’ll:

1. Discover ancient Inca archaeological sites, uncovering the rich history of the region.
2. Savor a delicious lunch featuring local Andean cuisine.
3. Immerse themselves in the lively culture, interacting with friendly local artisans and vendors.

This captivating introduction to the Sacred Valley sets the stage for the grand finale at Machu Picchu the following day.

Accommodation and Meals

Travelers on this 2-day excursion can look forward to a comfortable overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, the charming town nestled at the base of Machu Picchu.

The tour includes a night’s accommodation, as well as breakfast on the second day. Lunch is provided on the first day during the visit to Urubamba.

The tour doesn’t cover any other meals, so travelers should budget for dinner in Aguas Calientes.

With a maximum group size of 15, the experience offers a personalized and intimate way to explore the Sacred Valley and marvel at the iconic Machu Picchu.

Meeting and Pickup Details

Typically, the tour pickup occurs from hotels within the historic center of Cusco. However, it’s important to note that the tour isn’t available for private residences like Airbnb or hotels outside the historic center.

The tour starts promptly at 06:00 am, so it’s crucial to be ready on time.

The key pickup details are:

1. Pickup from hotels in Cusco’s historic center only.
2. Not available for private residences or hotels outside the historic center.
3. Start time is 06:00 am.

This ensures a smooth and timely start to the two-day adventure exploring the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes a guided visit to Machu Picchu, as well as pickup from hotels within Cusco’s historic center, transportation, accommodation, lunch, and breakfast.

The entrance ticket to the Sacred Valley, valued at 70 Peruvian soles, is also covered. However, meals not mentioned in the inclusions are excluded.

This small-group tour, limited to a maximum of 15 participants, ensures a personalized experience.

Please note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for individuals with serious medical conditions. Most travelers can participate, though, making this an accessible and enriching experience.

Reviews and Testimonials

This tour boasts a stellar 5.0 rating from 4 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor.

Travelers have praised the professionalism and responsiveness of their guide, Jose. The tour’s organization and quality have also been highlighted, with one reviewer describing the experience as "memorable."

Customers have been charmed by the beauty of Machu Picchu, noting:

1. "The guided tour of the main areas was excellent."
2. "The small-group format provided a personalized experience."
3. "The whole trip was extremely well-planned and executed."

With such positive feedback, this Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley tour is an excellent choice for those seeking a remarkable 2-day adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

While the tour includes some meals, travelers can bring their own snacks and drinks. However, consuming outside food or beverages is not permitted at the archaeological sites or during transportation.

Is It Possible to Extend the Stay in Machu Picchu?

Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Machu Picchu. However, this would require additional arrangements and fees not included in the standard 2-day tour. Guests should consult with the tour operator to discuss extended stay options and pricing.

What Type of Transportation Is Used for the Tour?

The tour utilizes private transportation, including a bus and train, to efficiently move travelers between Cusco, the Sacred Valley sites, and Machu Picchu. This ensures a comfortable and hassle-free experience throughout the 2-day itinerary.

Can I Book a Private Tour Instead of a Small Group?

Yes, you can book a private tour instead of a small group tour. The tour operator offers private tours for personalized experiences, though these may come at an additional cost compared to the small group option.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation and refund policy allows for 100% refund if cancelled at least 24 hours prior to the tour. Any cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable. There are no partial refunds available.

The Sum Up

This 2-day tour offers an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes and ancient wonders of Peru’s Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley. With a guided exploration of the iconic Incan citadel and visits to the vibrant Pisac market and Urubamba, travelers will enjoy the rich history and culture of this captivating region. The personalized experience and small group size ensure an intimate and memorable adventure.