Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley Community Tourism - 2 Days Tour

Why choose this experience with us?

Small groups for a more personalized experience: Travel in groups of up to 6 passengers, enjoying a more comfortable, flexible, and attentive journey.

Connect with the essence of the Sacred Valley: Spend a day with a community family, get to know their traditions, the art of weaving, and their way of life up close. Enjoy a lunch prepared with local products and be part of a community tourism experience that contributes to the sustainable development of the population.

More time to enjoy Machu Picchu: Thanks to efficient planning and the small group size, you will have the necessary time to explore the citadel, take photographs, and enjoy its landscapes at your leisure.

Expert local guide throughout the tour: Discover the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu accompanied by a professional guide who will share the history, culture, and secrets of each place, providing assistance from the beginning to the end of the journey.

Itinerary summary:

Day 1: Cusco – Ccaccaccollo – Huchuy Qosqo (Parwa) – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

The first day of the experience is focused on touring the main attractions of the Sacred Valley and discovering the traditions of Andean indigenous peoples. Enjoy a delicious Andean lunch, learn about ancestral textile processes, and end the day in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town) after a scenic train journey.

Day 2: Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Ollantaytambo - Cusco

The second day will be dedicated to discovering the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. Accompanied by a professional guide, you will tour its main areas while learning about the history, architecture, and legacy of the Inca Empire. In the afternoon, after a brief exploration of Aguas Calientes, the return trip to the city of Cusco begins.

Technical data of the tour:

Walking time:

Day 1: Short walk during the community visit

Day 2: 2 to 3 hours during the guided tour

Maximum altitude:

Day 1: Huchuy Qosqo Community: 3,650 m / 11,975 ft

Day 2: Machu Picchu: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft

Minimum altitude:

Day 1 and 2: Aguas Calientes: 2,040 meters above sea level / 6,693 feet Level of difficulty:

Easy

Temperature:

8 °C to 26 °C

Highlights of the tour:

Ccaccaccollo Community: Traditional Quechua community located in the district of Taray, amidst natural landscapes. It is known for the experiential tourism it offers, in addition to the medicinal, textile, and agricultural traditions it preserves.

Community of Huchuy Qosqo (Parwa): Parwa is a community tourism program in the town of Huchuy Qosqo, which brings visitors closer to their ancestral traditions in a cultural and gastronomic experience.

Ollantaytambo: A historic town that preserves the original layout from the Inca era. It has an impressive archeological site and a wide range of tourist services.

Machu Picchu: Ancient Inca citadel considered one of the main resting residences of the Inca elite. It was also an important sanctuary and astronomical center located amidst tropical mountain landscapes.

Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town): Main center of tourist services and gateway to Machu Picchu. Here you will find the train station, as well as various attractions that complement the travel experience.

Day 1: Cusco – Ccaccaccollo – Huchuy Qosqo (Parwa) – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

Today you will discover the essence of the Sacred Valley alongside Andean communities, stunning landscapes, and living traditions that will mark the beginning of your journey to the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu.

The 2-day Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu experiential tour begins with pickup from your hotel in Cusco around 8:00 a.m. to start the journey to the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Living Traditions of the Sacred Valley

Our experiential journey begins in Ccaccaccollo, an Andean community that keeps alive traditions and knowledge passed down from generation to generation. With them, you will be able to closely observe their daily life and discover how they preserve the customs that are part of their cultural identity.

The visit begins with a traditional welcome dance, where you will meet each member of the community and even have the chance to wear their traditional garments. Then you will learn about the art of Andean weaving, a tradition in which both women and men participate. In this demonstration, you will be able to observe how they create their textiles using traditional techniques and their famous natural dyeing. During the experience, you will also be able to be part of the actual creation, getting to know closely the meaning of some of their designs.

Flavors of the Andes in Huchuy Qosqo

Subsequently, the journey continues toward the town of Huchuy Qosqo (Parwa), where you will visit the community garden and some of the products that will be part of the gastronomic experience you will have. Parwa is a community project that offers visitors the opportunity to learn about their traditions and customs through various Andean dishes.

It is an opportunity to learn about traditions, discover local flavors, and connect authentically with the communities that keep the Andean culture alive.

In the afternoon, we will arrive in Ollantaytambo, one of the best-preserved Inca towns in Peru.

You will have time to stroll through its cobblestone streets and admire the urban planning that has been preserved since the Inca era, before boarding the tourist train to Aguas Calientes.

During the approximately two-hour train journey, you will witness how the landscapes of the Sacred Valley give way to the lush vegetation of the cloud forest, following the course of the Urubamba River until you reach Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo).

Upon arrival, our staff will accompany you to your hotel. The rest of the afternoon will be free to explore the charming streets of Aguas Calientes, relax in its cafes, visit some of its attractions, or simply rest and prepare for the most anticipated moment of the trip: discovering the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu the next day.

Walking time:

Short distance during the community visit

Maximum altitude:

Community of Huchuy Qosqo: 3,650 meters above sea level / 11,975 feet

Minimum altitude:

Aguas Calientes: 2,040 meters above sea level / 6,693 feet

Level of difficulty:

Easy

Temperature:

8 °C to 26 °C

Day 2: Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Ollantaytambo - Cusco

Today you will experience the most anticipated moment of the trip: exploring Machu Picchu and discovering the history that has turned this citadel into one of the world's great treasures.

The second day of the journey begins early after breakfast at the hotel. Next, we will head to the Machu Picchu bus station with our guide. The journey is short, approximately 25 minutes, discovering the biodiversity that surrounds the wonder of the world.

Upon arriving at Machu Picchu, you will get to know some of the most important constructions, according to the chosen circuit, and together with the guide, you will discover more about the history and mysteries behind each enclosure.

After the visit to Machu Picchu, we will return to Aguas Calientes, where you will have free time to discover the charm of this picturesque town: choose your preferred restaurant for lunch, stroll through its streets, or immerse yourself in its colorful local market. In the late afternoon, we will return aboard the tourist train, whose windows will allow us to enjoy the incredible landscapes throughout the journey.

Upon arriving in Ollantaytambo, a private transport will be waiting to return to the city of Cusco, thus concluding an unforgettable adventure full of history, nature, and culture. This day ends with unforgettable memories, after having experienced a journey that combines history, nature, living culture, and the thrill of having visited one of the most fascinating places on the planet.

Walking time:

2 to 3 hours during the guided tour

Maximum altitude:

Machu Picchu: 2,430 meters above sea level / 7,972 feet

Minimum altitude:

Aguas Calientes: 2,040 meters above sea level / 6,693 feet

Level of difficulty:

Easy

Temperature:

8 °C to 26 °C

Entry Ticket to Machu Picchu:

Once your reservation is confirmed, the purchase of the entrance tickets to Machu Picchu will proceed according to the current availability, always seeking the best option for your tour. Your visit to Machu Picchu can follow one of the following circuits:

Circuit 2 - Route 2A or 2B: Allows you to enjoy the classic panoramic view of Machu Picchu and explore some of the main areas of the Inca citadel.

Circuit 3 - Route 3B: Offers a different perspective of Machu Picchu, following the lower sector of the Historical Sanctuary.

Circuit 1 - Route 1B: This route traverses the panoramic sector of Machu Picchu, where you can enjoy the best views and get the classic postcard photo from the Guardian's House sector.

Important: Machu Picchu offers different tour circuits, each designed to showcase different areas of the citadel. We will take care of managing the best available circuit at the time of confirming your reservation, always aiming to provide you with the best possible experience.

Due to high demand, we recommend booking in advance.

Accompaniment and security

Pre-tour informational meeting

One day before the start, our executive will meet with you to go over all the program details and address any questions. We want you to enjoy your adventure without worries from the very first moment.

Bilingual professional guide in a small group in Machu Picchu (Spanish and English) We have highly trained professional guides who will accompany you and your group exclusively during the visit to Machu Picchu. Enjoy a private and personalized experience, with detailed explanations about the history, culture, and legacy of the Inca citadel.

Small group guide in the experiential Sacred Valley.

The guided service in the Sacred Valley is conducted in small groups of up to 6 passengers. We have specialized and highly trained guides who will enrich your experience with the history, culture, and traditions of the destination.

Personalized accompaniment:

From the pick-up at your hotel in Cusco, a representative from Sakura Expedition will accompany you at the start of your journey, coordinating every detail until you meet our guide in Machu Picchu so you can enjoy an organized and worry-free experience.

Accommodation (Hotel ***)

1 night in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes

Day 1: Stay in a comfortable and cozy 3-star hotel, in a double or matrimonial room. For other types of rooms, please inquire in advance at the time of your reservation.

Food:

Day 1: Andean Lunch at Parwa.

Tourist Transport

Private and shared transfers

To ensure you make the most of your adventure, we include pick-up and drop-off at your hotel.

On journeys longer than 2 hours, we prioritize your comfort with carefully organized services and, on certain segments, private transportation for a more comfortable and personalized experience.

Day 1: Private Tourist Transport from Cusco and through the Sacred Valley.

Day 2: Bus from Machu Picchu to the town of Aguas Calientes.

Day 2: Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.

Day 2: Private transfer from Ollantaytambo to your hotel in Cusco.

Tourist Train Journey

Day 1: Expedition PeruRail or Voyager Inca Rail train from the Ollantaytambo station to Aguas Calientes.

Day 2: Expedition PeruRail or Voyager Inca Rail train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.

What is not included?

Day 1: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Day 2: Lunch

Travel insurance (recommended): For greater peace of mind during your trip, we recommend purchasing insurance that provides coverage for unforeseen events such as flight cancelations or delays, loss or delay of luggage, illnesses, accidents, trip interruptions, loss of tourist services due to delays, as well as medical assistance and personal protection throughout your entire adventure.

Additional expenses due to causes beyond the agency's control: Adverse weather conditions, itinerary modifications for safety, illness, changes in government policy, political instability, strikes, or other similar circumstances.

Tips: Optional.

Enhance your experience:

Day 2: Lunch at Café Inkaterra - USD 25 per person

Enjoy a delicious meal with an incredible view of the Vilcanota River. The natural surroundings are perfect for relaxing before boarding the train back.

Day 2: Sanctuary Lodge Tinkuy (Machu Picchu) - USD 45 per person

The best option for lunch near Machu Picchu, enjoying a varied buffet and a unique setting just a few steps from the citadel.

Discover the most important things you should consider bringing on your trip to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu:

Mandatory documents

Original valid passport or national identity card (mandatory to enter Machu Picchu) Physical student card or valid ID (if you booked with the student rate).

Recommended luggage

Small or day backpack to carry your essential belongings.

Comfortable and suitable clothing for walking

Waterproof jacket or rain poncho (especially between November and March) Hat or cap for the sun Sunglasses Comfortable shoes with good grip A special outfit for your photos in Machu Picchu to capture unforgettable memories Personal items Sunscreen Insect repellent Personal medication Reusable water bottle Light snacks Cash in soles for personal expenses Equipment and extras Camera or cell phone Portable charger / power bank Headphones or personal music Important considerations Travel light to enjoy a more comfortable experience.

Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu have a humid and warm climate, typical of the cloud forest.

It is normal to perceive a certain level of humidity in the hotels.

Always keep your documents and valuables with you.

When to visit Machu Picchu?

Machu Picchu can be visited year-round, but it is important to consider the two seasons that characterize the Cusco region. The dry season, from April to October, usually offers sunnier days and clear skies, ideal for enjoying the landscapes. On the other hand, the rainy season, from November to March, features more frequent rainfall and greener, more lush vegetation.

Regardless of the time of year you choose to travel, we recommend booking your ticket to Machu Picchu as far in advance as possible, as availability is limited and tends to sell out quickly on certain dates.

Does this tour operate every day?

Yes, we operate this tour year-round. However, tickets to Machu Picchu and train tickets have limited availability, so we recommend booking in advance to secure your spot and access a greater variety of schedules and circuits.

What experiences will I have on the first day of the trip?

On the first day, you will discover the heart of the Sacred Valley by visiting Andean communities where you will learn about their traditions, agriculture, and ancestral textiles. Additionally, you will share a lunch prepared with local products, tour the historic town of Ollantaytambo, and end the day traveling by train to Aguas Calientes, where you will spend the night before visiting Machu Picchu.

How long does the first day's tour last?

The first day lasts approximately 11 hours, starting with the pick-up at your hotel in Cusco around 8:00 a.m. and ending with your arrival at the hotel in Aguas Calientes, where you will spend the night before visiting Machu Picchu.

Does the tour include breakfast on the first day?

Breakfast is not included in the program. It is recommended to have breakfast at the hotel before departure or request a box breakfast to take with you during the tour.

How many passengers is this Machu Picchu Experience for?

We believe that a visit to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu deserves personalized attention and a comfortable pace. Therefore, our services are designed for small groups of between 2 and 6 passengers, allowing for a more exclusive, flexible, and enriching experience.

If your reservation is for 2 passengers, your departure is guaranteed and will be operated directly by Sakura Expedition, without joining other groups or agencies. If you are traveling alone, we can also help you join a small group that has already been confirmed for the same date. Consult your travel advisor to learn about the available options.

Will I be able to buy textiles or local products during the tour?

Yes. During your visit to the Andean communities, you will have the opportunity to see and purchase handmade textiles, alpaca garments, and various crafts made by the local families themselves. Each purchase directly contributes to the community's economy and helps preserve ancestral techniques passed down from generation to generation, supporting a model of responsible and sustainable community tourism.

How much time in advance should I book the Sacred Valley Experience Tour with Machu Picchu?

We recommend booking it 3 to 5 months in advance, especially if you plan to travel during the high season. Every year, more travelers organize their visits several months in advance, and considering that tickets to Machu Picchu have a limited capacity, they sell out quickly.

Booking in advance will allow you to access a greater availability of tours, entry times, and train services.

Which Machu Picchu circuit is included?

This program can be carried out on any of the three circuits of Machu Picchu, although it will depend on the availability at the time of confirming the reservation. Each circuit offers a different experience, whether it's tours of the Inca citadel, panoramic views, or both experiences combined.

Although many travelers usually request Circuit 2, Circuits 1 and 3 also allow you to enjoy Machu Picchu from unique perspectives. Our team will always manage the best available option for your trip.

Can I choose the entry time to Machu Picchu?

We will do our best to manage the entry time of your preference. However, the schedules are subject to the availability at the time of confirming the reservation and must align with the itinerary of the tour.

What type of train does the tour include?

The tour includes the train:

- Expedition by PeruRail or Voyager by Inca Rail, depending on availability. Both offer comfortable seats and large panoramic windows that allow you to enjoy the landscapes of the Sacred Valley and the Andes during the journey to Machu Picchu.

The choice between one or the other will mainly depend on the availability and operating hours of each company.

If you desire a superior experience, you can request an upgrade to the Vistadome or Vistadome Observatory categories, subject to availability and at an additional cost.

How do I know if this program is for me?

This program is ideal for those who wish to discover the essence of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu in just two days, combining history, living culture, and spectacular landscapes.

You will share moments with Andean communities, learn about their traditions, and enjoy a night in Aguas Calientes before visiting the Inca citadel with greater tranquility. Additionally, the program includes transportation, accommodation, a guide, and tickets, so you only have to focus on enjoying the experience.

We recommend making the reservation in advance to have greater availability of the entry circuits to Machu Picchu and the train schedules.

From what age is it recommended to take the Sacred Valley Experiential Tour to Machu Picchu in two days?

The 2-day Machu Picchu Tour is an excellent option for travelers of all ages, as it does not require long walks or significant physical effort.

It is recommended for children from 8 years old, who can enjoy the experience accompanied by their parents. Likewise, it is an ideal alternative for older adults who wish to visit Machu Picchu comfortably and safely.

There is no maximum age to take this tour. However, we recommend consulting with your doctor before the trip if you have any particular health condition.

At what age do children pay at Machu Picchu?

Children from the age of 3 require a ticket for Machu Picchu and have special rates according to their age and nationality.

To access these benefits, it will be necessary to present a valid passport or identity document at the time of booking and during the visit. Our team will inform you of the corresponding rates based on the child's age.

What level of difficulty does this tour have?

The tour has an easy level. It is designed for travelers who wish to visit Machu Picchu while enjoying a comfortable, cultural, and accessible experience, without undertaking long walks or demanding treks.

What time is the return to Cusco?

The return to Cusco is scheduled approximately between 7:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. depending on the train's departure time and the service's operational conditions.

How long does the guided tour in Machu Picchu last?

The guided tour lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours, although it may be slightly extended depending on your walking pace. Since it is a private service, you will have enough time to make stops, take photographs, and learn in detail about the history and secrets of Machu Picchu with your expert guide.

Can I add Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain to this tour?

Yes, both options can be added to the tour, subject to availability. These hikes require moderate physical fitness and it is recommended not to suffer from vertigo, especially for the ascent to Huayna Picchu Mountain.

Can I bring a large suitcase or backpack?

To enjoy a more comfortable experience, we suggest bringing only a small backpack with your essential belongings for the day.

What options are available for storing luggage? Can I take it to Aguas Calientes?

You can carry up to 8 kg of luggage on the train to Aguas Calientes; however, to enjoy the excursion more comfortably, we recommend bringing only a small backpack with the essential items for your visit to Machu Picchu.

You can leave your main luggage at the hotel in Cusco, as most establishments offer free luggage storage for their guests. If you prefer, our sales team can also advise you on the best option according to your itinerary. Alternatively, some train stations offer luggage storage services.

Who will meet us upon our return to the Ollantaytambo station?

Upon your arrival in Ollantaytambo, our staff will be waiting for you with a sign bearing your name to assist you and comfortably transfer you back to Cusco.

Does the tour include transportation to my hotel?

Yes. Our service includes transfers from your hotel in Cusco to the train station and the return from Ollantaytambo back to your hotel, providing you with a comfortable and safe experience from start to finish.

Is the guide service in a large or small group during the 2-day experience?

Small groups, big adventures. Throughout the entire 2-day experience, you will travel in small groups of 2 to 6 passengers, allowing for closer attention, greater connection with the local culture, and a more authentic experience.

On the first day, you will share unique moments with a local community, participating in traditional activities and getting to know their way of life up close with a small group.

On the second day, the adventure will continue toward Machu Picchu, enjoying a more comfortable and personalized tour, with time to discover the history and secrets of the Inca citadel alongside your guide.

If you are traveling alone, we recommend consulting with our sales team to learn about the available options.

What is the reservation process like?

Step 1: Check availability

Write to us at info@sakuraexpedition.com to check available dates. We will send you a personalized reservation form that each group participant must complete.

Step 2: Passenger Information

To manage your entry to Machu Picchu and the train tickets, we need the following data from each participant, as it appears in the passport:

Full name

Gender

Passport number

Date of birth (dd/mm/yyyy)

Nationality

Without this information, it is not possible to obtain permits or tickets.

Step 3: Deposit and Confirmation

Once we receive the completed forms, we will request a deposit of the amount indicated by your travel advisor to proceed with the purchase of tickets. We recommend booking in advance, as spots fill up quickly.

Step 4: Final Confirmation

When the tickets are secured, you will receive your official confirmation invoice. At that moment, your reservation will be guaranteed 100%.

How is the outstanding balance paid?

The outstanding balance can be paid in cash (US dollars or Peruvian soles) at our Cusco office or according to the instructions of your travel advisor.

Can I leave my luggage at your office?

Of course! During the trip, your main luggage can be stored at our office or at your hotel, both free of charge.

Do you give tips?

Tips are completely voluntary. All our team members receive fair compensation, so any gratuity is at your discretion.

Why choose Sakura Expedition for your trip?

Sakura Expedition is a 100% local, Peruvian company specialized in adventure and cultural tourism in the Cusco and Peru destination. We have a team of certified guides and operational staff committed to providing unique, safe, and high-quality experiences.

We are distinguished by responsible and sustainable tourism, respect for local communities, and personalized attention in every service. Backed by our tourism quality certification, we guarantee excellence standards in every detail of the operation, from planning to tour execution.

With Sakura Expedition, your satisfaction is guaranteed.

What sets us apart?

Small groups

Enjoy a more comfortable, personalized experience with greater attention from our guides.

In-house operation and local team

We directly coordinate our own programs, this way we have control to maintain high standards of quality, punctuality, and organization.

Certified professional guides

Our team shares their work with passion, in history, culture, and the traditions of Peru, making each tour a memorable experience.

Personalized attention

We accompany you from the beginning of your reservation, during, and after your trip, offering continuous assistance and timely responses to your inquiries.

Responsible and sustainable tourism

We promote responsible tourism together with our allied communities, respecting their traditions and contributing to the sustainable development of local families.

Commitment to safety

We work with safety protocols, appropriate equipment, and trained personnel to offer you a more peaceful experience.

Local company with tourism quality certification

We are a 100% local and Peruvian company, based in Cusco. Our commitment to excellence has allowed us to obtain the CALTUR Gold Certification this year, the highest recognition for tourism quality in Peru.

Our commitment

At Sakura Expedition, we don't just organize trips; we create authentic experiences that connect our travelers with the history, culture, nature, and essence of Peru.