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Discover the essence of the Andes on a journey that brings together two of the most extraordinary destinations in Peru. Explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas amidst spectacular landscapes, archeological sites, and ancestral traditions, before dedicating the second day to exploring the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. A trip designed to enjoy each experience with greater comfort, without rush, and with personalized attention.
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 the Sacred Valley and 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 - Chinchero - Textile Center - Moray - Maras - Urubamba - Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes
Discover the main tourist destinations of the Sacred Valley along with ancestral traditions, unique textiles, and impressive Inca constructions. The first day's tour ends in Aguas Calientes, after boarding the tourist train from the town of Ollantaytambo.
Day 2: Machu Picchu - Aguas Calientes - 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 details of the tour:
Walking time:
Day 1: 2 to 3 hours during the tour
Day 2: 2 to 3 hours during the guided tour
Maximum altitude:
Day 1: Chinchero: 3,754 m / 12,316 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:
Chinchero: Traditional Andean village that houses an important Inca archeological site and a valuable cultural legacy, which we will learn about through a demonstration of ancestral techniques in one of its textile centers.
Moray: The circular terraces of Moray are one of the most impressive tourist destinations in the Sacred Valley. It is believed that it was once an Inca agricultural laboratory due to its various microclimates; today, it stands out for its design and spectacular landscape.
Maras: The Maras Salt Mines frame various landscapes alongside more than 3000 salt ponds that have been used since pre-Hispanic times.
Urubamba: Known as the capital of the Sacred Valley, the town of Urubamba offers many high-quality services. During the tour here, we will have a gastronomic stop for lunch.
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 - Chinchero - Textile Center - Moray - Maras - Urubamba - Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes
Today you will discover the essence of the Sacred Valley along with traditional villages, stunning Andean landscapes, and ancient Inca archeological sites that will mark the beginning of your journey to the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu.
The two-day Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour experience begins with pickup from your hotel in Cusco around 7:30 a.m. to travel toward the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
The first stop of the tour is Chinchero, where the archeological center is visited first. This place features extensive agricultural terraces and Inca walls that coexist with colonial architecture.
Subsequently, you will meet the local communities who, in a guided experience, will share their ancestral Andean textile tradition. Here you will learn about the natural dyeing process with plants and minerals, as well as the weaving techniques passed down from generation to generation.
Continuing with the adventure, we will arrive at Moray, known for its impressive circular terraces.
It is believed that this place was used by the Incas as an agricultural laboratory, where each level created a different microclimate that allowed for experimentation with various crops.
Subsequently, we will visit the Maras Salt Mines, located just a few minutes from Moray. This impressive set of more than three thousand stepped pools takes advantage of a natural saltwater spring that has been used since pre-Inca times. Here you can admire one of the most representative landscapes of the Sacred Valley and enjoy excellent opportunities for taking photographs.
Then we will make a gastronomic stop in Urubamba, in the heart of the Sacred Valley, where we will enjoy a buffet lunch with a wide selection of typical Andean and international dishes, designed for all tastes.
In the afternoon, we will continue to Ollantaytambo, the last destination of this first day. The exploration is through one of the best-preserved Inca cities in Peru, wandering its cobblestone streets and visiting its imposing fortress, strategically built on a mountain.
After a day full of history, culture, and unforgettable landscapes, the tourist train will be boarded from Ollantaytambo to travel toward Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town). The journey is approximately two hours long, during which you can appreciate how the landscapes gradually change from Andean zones to the lush flora typical of the cloud forest.
In Aguas Calientes, you will spend the night in a comfortable hotel, enjoying the tranquility of the place and preparing for the most anticipated moment of the trip: the visit to the majestic Citadel of Machu Picchu. If you wish, you can stroll through its cozy streets, visit its tourist attractions, or simply gaze at the stars on a magical night in the Andes.
Walking time:
2 to 3 hours during the hike
Maximum altitude:
Chinchero: 3,754 m a.s.l. / 12,316 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.
Partial and Salineras Tourist Ticket
Tourist tickets are necessary to enter the archeological sites visited during the tour. These allow access to the most important destinations in the Sacred Valley.
Day 1: Partial Tourist Ticket (Btg).
This tourist ticket grants access to visit the archeological sites of Chinchero, Moray, and Ollantaytambo.
Day 1: Ticket Entry to the Maras Salt Mines:
This ticket allows entry to the stunning Maras Salt Mines, a beautiful collection of thousands of salt pools.
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 private service in Machu Picchu (Spanish and English) We have highly trained professional guides who will exclusively accompany you and your group 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.
Shared group guide in the Sacred Valley
The guided service in the Sacred Valley is conducted in a shared group. We have specialized and highly trained guides who will enrich your experience with the history, culture, and traditions of the destination.
24/7 Customer Service
We are available at all times, from start to finish. We have an emergency number that you can call whenever you need it.
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: Buffet lunch in Urubamba.
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 Transportation 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 places are visited during the Sacred Valley Tour?
The Sacred Valley tour includes visits to the following attractions: Chinchero, Chinchero Textile Center, Moray, Maras Salt Mines, Urubamba (Lunch), and Ollantaytambo.
How long does the Sacred Valley tour last on the first day?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting around 7:30 a.m. and ending around 4:00 p.m.
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 does this Sacred Valley service to Machu Picchu accommodate?
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 the visit to the Chinchero Textile Center and the Maras Salt Mines, you will have time to learn about and purchase products made by local communities.
How far in advance should I book the Sacred Valley 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?
The Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour is an excellent alternative for you to explore the most important attractions of Cusco at your own pace in just two days. Thanks to the optimized itinerary, you will get to know the best of each destination, and you will also have the entrance tickets, transportation, and accommodation in a hotel in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town) included. We only recommend making the reservation in advance so you can get the ticket you prefer to tour Machu Picchu.
From what age is it recommended to take the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu tour 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 is the difficulty level of this tour?
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 shared or in small groups?
In the Sacred Valley VIP, the guided service is shared in groups of up to 17 passengers, allowing for a dynamic and enriching experience during the tour.
In Machu Picchu, to provide a more exclusive and personalized visit, 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 the Inca citadel.
Private groups in Machu Picchu consist of a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 6 passengers. If you are traveling alone, we recommend consulting with your sales executive 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 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 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.
