Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Excursion 2 Days / 1 Night

Enjoy the captivating history and breathtaking landscapes of Peru’s Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu on this meticulously crafted 2-day, 1-night excursion. Explore the rich Inca heritage at archaeological sites like Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo, before uncovering the iconic wonder of Machu Picchu. With a structured itinerary and guided tours, you’ll gain unparalleled insights into this extraordinary region. But the true magic lies in the opportunity to connect with the profound cultural traditions that continue to shape this enchanting destination. Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey?

Good To Know

• This 2-day, 1-night excursion from Cusco, Peru explores the Sacred Valley and provides a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu site.

• The first day includes visits to the archaeological sites of Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo, while the second day focuses on the Machu Picchu tour.

• It is recommended to book the excursion at least 30 days in advance to secure Machu Picchu entrance tickets due to high demand.

• The tour includes various inclusions such as lunch, breakfast, hotel pickup, transportation, and a professional guide to enhance the cultural and historical experience.

• The excursion covers an altitude range of 2,420 to 2,450 meters and is classified as a moderate trekking level, requiring caution for pregnant travelers.

Overview of the Excursion

The "Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Excursion" is a popular 2-day, 1-night trip offered to travelers visiting Cusco, Peru.

One of the most requested tours, it takes visitors to the Sacred Valley and the iconic Machu Picchu. On the first day, travelers will visit Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo, while the second day is dedicated to exploring the breathtaking Machu Picchu site.

To secure entrance tickets, it’s recommended to book the excursion at least 30 days in advance. The itinerary includes guided tours, transportation, meals, and more, making it a convenient and immersive way to discover the cultural and historical wonders of this region.

Itinerary Details

The two-day Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Excursion offers an immersive journey into Peru’s rich cultural heritage. On the first day, visitors explore the Sacred Valley, including the archaeological site of Pisac, the administrative center of Urubamba, and the impressive Inca ruins of Ollantaytambo.

Destination	Duration	Admission
Pisac	1 hour	Free
Urubamba	1 hour	Free
Ollantaytambo	1 hour	Included

The second day begins early with a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu. After a 25-minute bus ride, visitors embark on a 2-hour guided tour of the site’s key landmarks, followed by free time for personal exploration and photography.

Sacred Valley Stops

During the first day, the Sacred Valley portion of the excursion takes visitors to several historical and cultural highlights.

The tour first stops at Pisac, an important Inca archaeological site known for its remarkable architecture and tombs. Travelers then proceed to Urubamba, the administrative center of the region, where they enjoy a typical Peruvian buffet lunch.

The final stop is Ollantaytambo, a strategic Inca site featuring impressive stone structures. The Sacred Valley offers a glimpse into the region’s rich Inca heritage and provides an engaging prelude to the main attraction – the iconic Machu Picchu.

• Pisac: Inca archaeological site with architecture and tombs
• Urubamba: Administrative center with a typical Peruvian buffet lunch
• Ollantaytambo: Strategic Inca site with significant stone structures
• The Sacred Valley: Inca heritage as a prelude to Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu Visit

After the journey through the Sacred Valley, the second day of the excursion is dedicated to the highlight – visiting the legendary Machu Picchu.

The day starts early at 6:00 AM with breakfast before taking a 25-minute bus ride to the entrance of the ancient Inca citadel.

The guided tour lasts 2 hours and covers the major sites, including the House of the Watchman, Temple of the Sun, and Temple of the Three Windows.

Visitors then have a free hour to explore and take personal photos.

In the afternoon, the group returns to Cusco by train, completing the two-day adventure.

Inclusions and Exclusions

As part of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Excursion, a number of key items are included, such as lunch, breakfast, hotel pickup, and tourist mobility.

Plus, a professional guide is provided to enhance the educational experience.

However, some exclusions should be noted:

• Huayna Picchu ticket or Machu Picchu mountain ticket
• Food not specifically mentioned in the itinerary
• Any other expenses not explicitly listed as included

Confirmation of the excursion is provided at the time of booking, and the overall accessibility is limited, as it isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with mobility issues.

Additional Information

Confirmation of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Excursion is received at the time of booking.

The excursion isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers.

The minimum altitude is 2420 meters above sea level, with a maximum of 2450 meters.

The trekking level is considered moderate.

Travelers should be prepared for the effects of high altitude, such as shortness of breath and fatigue.

It’s important to follow the guidance of the professional guide and respect the cultural and environmental sensitivity of the Machu Picchu site.

Reviews and Feedback

The Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Excursion has an overall rating of 4.0/5 based on 7 reviews.

Travelers praised the excellent experience and organization, as well as the helpful, knowledgeable guides. One reviewer, Adolfo, was particularly noted for his outstanding customer service and educational value.

However, some customers expressed dissatisfaction with the pace of the tours, feeling that it limited their photo opportunities at Machu Picchu.

Plus, a few reviewers mentioned guides requesting additional payments for included sites, which detracted from the overall experience.

• Excellent experience and organization
• Helpful, knowledgeable guides like Adolfo
• Complaints about the pace of tours and missed photo opportunities
• Guides requesting additional payments for included sites

Recommendation

Travelers are recommended to book the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Excursion at least 30 days in advance to secure entrance tickets to Machu Picchu, as this popular 2-day, 1-night tour is in high demand.

Tickets to the iconic Inca citadel sell out quickly, so early planning is essential. The itinerary includes stops at key archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley, followed by a visit to Machu Picchu on the second day.

With a professional guide, travelers can explore the major landmarks and gain valuable insights into the Inca heritage. Booking well ahead ensures a seamless experience and the best chance of securing admission to this world-renowned wonder.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Group Size Restrictions for This Excursion?

The excursion doesn’t mention any group size restrictions. It’s likely a group tour, but the itinerary and inclusions are the same regardless of group size. Travelers should confirm the group size policy when booking the excursion.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to Machu Picchu?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks to Machu Picchu. However, glass containers, alcohol, and large backpacks are not permitted. It’s best to pack light snacks and water in a small bag for the visit.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Excursion?

The cancellation and refund policy allows for full refunds 30 days or more before the start date. Within 30 days, a 50% refund is available. No refunds are given within 7 days of the tour.

Can I Upgrade to a Private Tour for This Excursion?

Yes, you can upgrade to a private tour for this excursion. Private tours provide a more personalized experience and allow for a flexible itinerary. Contact the tour operator to inquire about the available private tour options and pricing.

Is There an Option to Extend the Stay at Machu Picchu?

Yes, you can extend your stay at Machu Picchu. For an additional fee, the tour operator offers an option to add more time at the site or hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. This allows for more exploration and photos.

The Sum Up

The Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Excursion offers an unparalleled 2-day, 1-night adventure in Peru. Travelers can explore the rich Inca heritage, explore stunning archaeological sites, and marvel at the iconic Machu Picchu. With a structured itinerary and culture, this excursion provides an enriching experience filled with breathtaking landscapes and historical insights. Early booking is essential to secure entrance tickets and ensure a seamless journey.