Brief
On this remarkable two-day, one-night excursion, explore the attractions of Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. Begin with a picturesque journey from Cusco to the Sacred Valley, stopping at the market and ruins at Pisac before continuing on to the magnificent Ollantaytambo archaeological site. After lunch in Urubamba town, board the touristic train to Machu Picchu town or Aguas Calientes. Pass through the breathtaking Sacred Valley, which is encircled by undulating hills and beautiful scenery.
Overnight in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town), then take a quick bus ride up to Machu Picchu. Discover the interesting history and culture of the Inca civilisation by touring well-known locations such as the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana Stone, and the Inca terraces. After visiting Machu Picchu Citadel, take the bus down to Aguas Calientes and then take the train and bus back to Cusco.
Highlights
- Visit the Sacred Valley of the Incas, a breathtaking region rich in Inca history and culture.
- Get amazed by the Pisac archaeological site and the vibrant Pisac Market, famous for its traditional Andean handicrafts and empanadas.
- Enjoy a buffet lunch in a good restaurant located in the Sacred Valley.
- Discover the Ollantaytambo archaeological site, which has earned a spot on the New York Times prestigious list of “52” Places to Visit in 2025.
- Take a tourist train ride to Machu Picchu through the breathtaking Sacred Valley and Urubamba River, offering stunning views of the Andes mountains.
- Uncover iconic sites like the Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana Stone, and Inca terraces as you learn about the rich Inca history and culture of the Inca civilisation.
- Enjoy an interesting guided tour of Machu Picchu citadel, uncovering its secrets and architectural marvels, including the Temple of the Three Windows and the Main Plaza.
- Experience admirable views of the Machu Picchu mountain and Huayna Picchu, perfect for photography and panoramic views.
Itinerary
Day 1: Sacred Valley Exploration & Train to Aguas Calientes or Machu Picchu Town
Morning Departure from Cusco
Begin your adventure with a scenic drive from Cusco to the Sacred Valley, located just 1.5 hours away. Known for its picturesque landscapes, traditional Andean villages, and ancient Inca sites, the Sacred Valley of the Incas is a must-visit destination on your journey to Aguas Calientes Town or Machu Picchu Town.
Visit to Pisac Archaeological Site and Market
Start your Sacred Valley tour with a visit to the Pisac ruins, an impressive archaeological site perched high above the valley. After exploring the ruins, stop at the nearby Pisac market, where you can shop for unique handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs.
Lunch in Urubamba
Enjoy a traditional Peruvian buffet lunch in the town of Urubamba, surrounded by stunning mountain views and vibrant Andean culture.
Ollantaytambo Ruins
Next, visit the ancient Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site, a significant archaeological site that once served as a military, religious, and agricultural center for the Incas. Take time to explore its impressive terraces and grand ceremonial structures.
Train Journey to Aguas Calientes or Machu Picchu Town
After visiting Ollantaytambo archaeological site you will be dropped off at Ollantaytambo train station to board your tourist train to Aguas Calientes, departing at 16.36 PM. This tourist train of a 1.5-hour ride offers breathtaking views of the Urubamba River.
Overnight in Aguas Calientes or Machu Picchu Town
Once you arrive in Aguas Calientes town, you will be welcomed by the hotel staff, you will have a smooth transfer to your accommodation by foot. Once you have settled in the hotel, our representative will give you a briefing about your Machu Picchu tour at the hotel lobby, where you’ll receive all the necessary details for your visit to the Machu Picchu archaeological site the following day.
Overnight in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town)
Meals: Lunch
Day 2: Visit to Machu Picchu and Return to Cusco
Guided Tour of Machu Picchu Citadel
After breakfast you will be taken to the bus station to take your bus up to Machu Picchu citadel. Your Machu Picchu ticket will provide access to the Machu Picchu tour circuit (usually Circuit 01 or 02, subject to availability). Our knowledgeable local tour will be there waiting for you to start your guided tour for about a 2.5-hour exploration of the Inca citadel, explaining the history, architecture, and significance of key monuments like the Temple of the Sun and Intihuatana Stone. This is a good opportunity to ask as many questions as you can to know more about Inca’s civilisations.
Return to Aguas Calientes or Machu Picchu Town back to Ollantaytambo then to Cusco
After your guided tour of Machu Picchu citadel, you’ll catch the bus down to Aguas Calientes or Machu Picchu Town. This ride takes approximately 25 minutes. Once in Aguas Calientes or Machu Picchu Town, you’ll have some free time to explore the town, enjoy a meal, or purchase souvenirs before your return by train that will depart Aguas Calientes or Machu Picchu Town around 2:30 PM or 3:20 PM, taking you back to Ollantaytambo train station in approximately 1.5 hours. Here, please follow the instructions of the train company staff to continue your journey back to Cusco, ensuring a safe ride.
Expect to arrive back in Cusco around 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM, where you will be dropped off at your hotel, concluding your memorable Machu Picchu day trip with us.
Meals: Breakfast
If you have available time to add an additional tour, such as a city tour, a visit to the Rainbow Mountain, a visit to Humantay Lake, an experiential tour, or any other tour of your preference, we can add that activity to your itinerary and recalculate the rate.
Inclusions
What’s Included
- Welcome pack and briefing either at your hotel or Airbnb, or at our office in Cusco City, depending on your preference.
- 1 Night of accommodation in a hotel according to the option chosen
- Excursions are available as either as group tours or private services, depending on the program you choose
- Buffet lunch included during the Sacred Valley Tour
- Entry Tickets for the Sacred Valley (Boleto Turístico Parcial)
- Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu (General entrance). Circuit 1 or Circuit 2 depending on availability.
- Shared or private Local Guide in Machu Picchu depending on the program you choose
- Shared or private transportation from Ollantaytambo in a comfortable vehicle depending on the program you choose
- Door to Door Service
- Train tickets to/from Machu Picchu
- Budget: The Voyager or Expedition Bimodal Service with a shared guided tour in Machu Picchu (Upgrade to Vistadome Service for an additional cost)
- Round-Trip Bus Tickets to/from Machu Picchu Citadel
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary (B: breakfast, L: lunch, D: dinner, BL; Boxed Lunch)
- 24/7 Machu Picchu Day Trip by Aantur Perú On-Call Support, including WhatsApp support, ensuring you have assistance whenever needed during your Machu Picchu tour.
What’s Not Included
- International flights
- Domestic flights
- Tips (for guides, drivers, waiters, luggage porters, etc)
- Entry fee to Huayna Picchu Mountain
- Accommodation
- Beverages during meals (unless specified in the itinerary)
Prices are not valid on the following dates:
- April 13th to 20th
- June 21st to 26th
- Dec 31st to Jan 03rd
Recommendations or Essential Tips for Visiting Machu Picchu
- Bring Your Identification Document or Passport
Ensure you bring the passport or ID used to purchase your Machu Picchu tickets. It’s required for entry to the site, and you’ll need to present it when checking in at the entrance. - Arrive Early at the Train Station
To ensure a smooth journey, arrive at the train station at least 30 minutes before departure. This will give you ample time to check in and prepare for the scenic ride to Aguas Calientes. - Limit Your Luggage
When traveling to Machu Picchu, keep in mind that only 5 kg (11 lbs) of luggage is allowed on the train to Machu Picchu. Travel light to make your journey more comfortable. - Pack Smart for the Day
We recommend carrying a small backpack with essentials for your Machu Picchu visit, including: - Camera to capture stunning views.
- A hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- Sunscreen to prevent sunburn.
- Mosquito repellent to keep insects at bay.
- A water bottle to stay hydrated during your exploration.
- Wear Comfortable and Non-Slippery Shoes. As you will be exploring the ancient terraces and climbing stairs at Machu Picchu, make sure to wear sturdy, comfortable shoes with good grip. This is essential for safely navigating the site’s uneven surfaces.
