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Discover Machu Picchu with the tranquility that only a two-day itinerary can offer. By including a night of accommodation in Aguas Calientes, you can enjoy the trip without extreme early mornings or tight schedules, exploring the Inca citadel with greater calm and dedicating more time to contemplating its landscapes, history, and architecture. It is an experience designed for those who seek to explore one of the wonders of the world with comfort, personalized attention, and the necessary time to appreciate every detail.
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.
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 a leisurely pace.
Local expert guide in Machu Picchu: Discover the history, architecture, and legacy of the Inca citadel accompanied by a professional guide who will enrich every moment of the visit.
Personalized accompaniment from the beginning: From the pick-up at your hotel in Cusco, a representative from Sakura Expedition will be attentive to every detail of your trip, coordinating your experience so you can enjoy an organized and worry-free journey.
Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes
The experience begins with pick-up from your hotel and transfer to the town of Ollantaytambo.
Subsequently, you will board the tourist train that travels through unforgettable landscapes full of history until you reach Aguas Calientes. Here we will spend the night to visit the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu the next day.
Day 2: Machu Picchu - Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo - Cusco
The second day is dedicated to exploring Machu Picchu. With the professional guide, you will be able to discover more about the history of the Inca Empire as you explore the most important sites of the wonder of the world. In the evening, the return to Cusco is scheduled.
Technical data of the tour:
Walking time:
Day 1: Light walk
Day 2: 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
Highlights of the tour:
Cusco (Imperial City or Qosqo): Also known as the navel of the world, it was the capital of the Tawantinsuyu empire. Currently, it combines colonial architecture with the Inca historical legacy.
Ollantaytambo: Historical town that preserves the original layout from the Inca era. It has an impressive archeological site and a wide range of tourist services.
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.
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.
ITINERARY:
Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes
Today the journey to Machu Picchu begins. Travel through the Sacred Valley and enjoy a relaxing train journey to the charming town of Aguas Calientes.
The two-day trip experience to Machu Picchu begins with pickup from your hotel at 8:30 am in Cusco to travel for two hours toward Ollantaytambo. During the journey, you will be able to see various landscapes of the Sacred Valley along with traditional villages, agricultural fields, rivers, and mountains.
Upon arriving in Ollantaytambo, where the main train station to Ollantaytambo is located, we will board the designated train at 11:30 am. During the journey, you will be able to appreciate how the views gradually transform from Andean mountains to the lush flora of the cloud forest.
Upon arriving in Aguas Calientes, our staff will be waiting to accompany you to your hotel. The rest of the afternoon will be free for you to enjoy this charming town at your own pace. You can relax with a cup of coffee or tea while admiring the mountains that surround the valley, visit the Machu Picchu Butterfly House to learn about some of the most fascinating species in the region, or enjoy the hot springs that gave the town its name.
In the evening, there will be a small meeting with the guide to provide you with all the necessary information about the visit the next day and prepare you for the most anticipated moment of the trip: the encounter with the majestic Citadel of Machu Picchu.
Walking time:
Light walk
Maximum altitude:
Aguas Calientes: 2,040 meters above sea level / 6,693 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 most anticipated day of the adventure begins early in the morning, after enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel and recharging energy for the journey. Subsequently, together with the guide, we will head to the bus station that takes us to the Inca citadel. The approximately 25-minute journey traverses a winding mountain road that reveals new views of the lush cloud forest and the deep canyons surrounding Machu Picchu with each curve.
Upon arriving at Machu Picchu, the guided tour of the main sectors of the Inca citadel will begin.
Since it is a private service, there will be no rush or strict schedules, allowing enough time to contemplate the landscapes, admire the perfection of the stone constructions, and discover the history behind each one.
Each terrace, temple, and ceremonial enclosure holds centuries of history. As you explore this unique sanctuary, your guide will share the secrets and knowledge that have made Machu Picchu one of the most extraordinary wonders of the world.
At the end of the tour, you will descend back to Aguas Calientes, where you can have lunch (optional) or take a brief walk around the town before starting your return journey. At the scheduled time, you will board the train to Ollantaytambo, once again enjoying the spectacular landscapes of the Sacred Valley.
In Ollantaytambo, our private transportation will be waiting to take you comfortably to your hotel in Cusco, thus concluding the unforgettable experience in Machu Picchu.
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.
Companionship and safety
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.
Waterproof backpack cover
We provide you with a waterproof cover to protect your belongings from the sun, rain, and road conditions throughout your visit.
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.
Nutrition
Day 2: Breakfast at the hotel
Tourist Transport
Private 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 transfer from your hotel in Cusco to the Ollantaytambo train station.
Day 2: Consettur bus uphill from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
Day 2: Consettur bus down from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
Day 2: Private transfer from Ollantaytambo to your hotel in Cusco.
Tourist Train Journey
Day 1: Expedition Peru Rail or Voyager Inca Rail train from the Ollantaytambo station to Aguas Calientes.
Day 2: Expedition Peru Rail or Voyager Inca Rail train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
Important: Train schedules will be confirmed according to the availability at the time of booking.
If necessary, we will adjust the itinerary to ensure the optimal development of your experience.
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.
Tips: Optional.
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.
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 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 photographs 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 during the nights.
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.
How many passengers is this 2-day service to Machu Picchu for?
We believe that a visit to 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 is already confirmed for the same date. Consult your travel advisor to learn about the available options.
How far in advance should I book the two-day Machu Picchu Tour?
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 Expedition train from PeruRail or the Voyager from 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.
What category of hotel is included?
At Sakura Expedition, we carefully select each hotel to ensure a comfortable stay and restful sleep during your trip. This program includes accommodation in a 3-star superior hotel, chosen for its excellent location, comfort, and quality of service, so you can enjoy a pleasant experience in Aguas Calientes.
If you desire a higher level experience, we also offer options for 4 and 5-star hotels, ideal for those seeking greater comfort, exclusive services, and a more premium stay. Consult with your sales executive to learn about the available options and their rates.
Important: Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) is located in a cloud forest zone, characterized by a warm and humid climate for much of the year. Due to these natural conditions, it is normal to perceive some humidity in the rooms, even in higher-category hotels, as the establishments use dehumidifiers and other measures to reduce it, although it is not possible to eliminate it completely.
How do I know if this program is for me?
The two-day Machu Picchu Tour with Hotel is ideal for travelers who want to explore the Inca citadel more comfortably and without rush, as the day before the visit is spent resting in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes.
At what age is it recommended to take the two-day Machu Picchu Tour?
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 3 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. Many travelers over 75 years old visit Machu Picchu every year without any issues. 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 is the difficulty level of this tour?
The tour has an easy difficulty 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.
What options are there 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.
In this way, you can explore Machu Picchu more comfortably and without carrying unnecessary luggage.
Who will greet 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 private or shared?
The guide service is completely private. At Sakura Expedition, we prioritize personalized attention so that you and your group can enjoy a more comfortable, flexible, and enriching experience during your visit to Machu Picchu, with a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 6 passengers. If you are a single traveler, you can consult with the sales executive.
Are the transfers private or shared?
The land transfers included in this program are private, both for the outbound and return journeys, ensuring greater comfort, punctuality, and peace of mind during your trip, with the exception of the tourist train and the bus to Machu Picchu.
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 official entry to Machu Picchu and the train tickets, we need the following information 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 permits. We recommend booking in advance, as spots fill up quickly.
Step 4: Final Confirmation
When the permits 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 small group guides.
Own 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.
