2-Day Tour to the Sacred Valley with Connection to Machu Picchu
PRICE FROM:
$ 330,00 USD
Per person
- GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Day 1: Exploration of the Sacred Valley
Delve into the history and culture of the Inca Empire by visiting some of the most iconic sites in the Sacred Valley:
- Chinchero: Famous for its textile tradition and charming market.
- Moray: Discover the mysterious circular terraces used by the Incas for agricultural experiments.
- Salt Mines of Maras: Explore the ancient salt mines in operation since Inca times.
- Ollantaytambo: Marvel at the impressive fortress and its perfect Inca urban planning.
Buffet Lunch in Urubamba: Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch that includes vegetarian options at a carefully selected restaurant.
Train Journey to Aguas Calientes: Experience an unforgettable train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, passing through the majestic Urubamba Canyon.
Day 2: Visit to Machu Picchu
The day culminates with a visit to the mystical citadel of Machu Picchu:
- Circuit 1, 2, or 3: Enjoy the best panoramic views and classic photographs of Machu Picchu from the upper circuits.
- Circuit 4 or 5 (alternatives): Explore from the lower part of the citadel.
Regardless of the chosen circuit, all include a guided tour of 2 to 2.5 hours with expert guides, providing an in-depth understanding of this architectural and cultural legacy.
What the tour includes:
- Tickets: All entrance fees to the archaeological sites of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
- Train and Bus Tickets: Round-trip train journey to Machu Picchu and bus ticket to the entrance of the citadel.
- Buffet Lunch: In Urubamba.
- Hotel Pickup: Between 6:30 and 7:00 AM.
- Free Storage Service: Leave your luggage at our office in Cusco while you enjoy the tour.
- Professional Guides: Groups of 14-16 people in the Sacred Valley and 6-8 people in Machu Picchu, ensuring a personalized and enriching experience.
Additional Information:
- Advance Reservation: It is essential to book at least 3 months in advance to secure your spot in the most popular circuits of Machu Picchu.
- Cancellation Policy: Please check the policies and available dates on our platform.
Get ready to experience an immersive and unique adventure in the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, where Inca history combines with breathtaking natural landscapes.
- ITINERARY
Day 1: EXPLORATION OF THE SACRED VALLEY AND TRAIN RIDE TO MACHU PICCHU
Start of the Day and Transportation from the Hotel:
- 6:30 to 7:00 AM: Pickup from your hotel or Airbnb in Cusco.
- Transfer to Chinchero: 45-minute drive to the picturesque village of Chinchero.
Visit to Chinchero:
- Exploration of the Inca Archaeological Site: Discover the colonial temple and the impressive Inca ruins with the guidance of an expert.
- Textile Artisan Center: Learn about the traditional weaving technique directly from local artisans, a unique opportunity to understand their culture and purchase authentic textiles.
Tour to Moray:
- Transfer to Moray: The journey continues to the circular terraces of Moray, about 40 minutes from Chinchero.
- Site Exploration: Discover the mysterious Inca agricultural terraces while listening to the guide’s explanations. Free time for photographs.
Visit to the Salt Mines of Maras:
- 45-minute drive from Moray to Maras: Journey to the famous salt mines.
- Exploration of the Salt Mines: Learn about the ancient technique of salt extraction still used today. Time to buy souvenirs made from Maras salt.
Buffet Lunch in Urubamba:
- 1:00 PM: Stop for a buffet lunch at a local restaurant. Enjoy a wide variety of traditional dishes, with vegetarian and vegan options.
Visit to Ollantaytambo:
- 30-minute drive from Urubamba: Transfer to the monumental archaeological site of Ollantaytambo.
- Guided Tour: Discover the history and architecture of one of the best-preserved Inca sites in the Sacred Valley.
Train Ride to Aguas Calientes:
- 3:30 PM or 4:30 PM: Departure from the Ollantaytambo station.
- Duration: Scenic train ride of 1 hour and 45 minutes through the beautiful Urubamba Canyon.
Arrival in Aguas Calientes:
- Reception at the Train Station: Hotel staff will be waiting to take you to your hotel.
- 7:30 PM: Meeting with the guide at the hotel to coordinate the details of the tour to Machu Picchu the next day.
Accommodation in Aguas Calientes: Enjoy a restful night before the exciting visit to Machu Picchu the next day.
Day 2: GUIDED VISIT TO MACHU PICCHU AND RETURN TO CUSCO
Start of the Day and Breakfast at the Hotel:
- 5:00 AM: Wake up early to enjoy breakfast at the hotel before heading to the bus station.
Bus Transfer to Machu Picchu:
- 5:30 AM: Departure from the bus station in Aguas Calientes to the main entrance of Machu Picchu. The bus ride takes approximately 25 minutes.
Entry and Exploration of Machu Picchu:
- 6:00 AM: Entry to the Inca citadel with the group and the guide.
- Classic viewpoint: Head to the high point of Machu Picchu first for the iconic panoramic view and, if the weather permits, enjoy the spectacular sunrise.
- Photos and views: Time to capture stunning photos and marvel at the landscape from the viewpoint.
Guided Tour of Machu Picchu:
- 6:30 AM – 9:00 AM: Guided tour within the citadel of Machu Picchu. The guide will provide detailed explanations about the history, architecture, and mysteries of this sacred site.
- Highlights: The Temple of the Sun, the Sacred Rock, the agricultural terraces, and other points of interest will be part of the guided tour.
Free Time for Personal Exploration:
- 9:00 AM – 9:30 AM: You will have about 30 additional minutes to explore the areas of Machu Picchu that interest you most before concluding your visit. The total allowed time in the park is 3 hours.
Bus Return to Aguas Calientes:
- 9:30 AM: Bus transfer back to Aguas Calientes, lasting 25 minutes.
Optional: Climb to Waynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain:
- If you have reserved tickets for Waynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you can take these additional hikes. The ascent must be coordinated in advance, as spaces are limited.
Free Time in Aguas Calientes:
- 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM: Free time to explore Aguas Calientes. Take the opportunity to enjoy lunch, visit the local market, or simply relax in this small town.
Train Ride from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo:
- 2:30 PM or 3:20 PM: Board the scenic train back from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
- Duration: The trip lasts 1 hour and 45 minutes, again traversing the beautiful Sacred Valley.
Transfer to Cusco:
- Reception at Ollantaytambo station: Agency staff will be waiting at the station with your name for the transfer back to Cusco.
- Vehicle trip: Private vehicle transfer to Cusco, with a travel time of approximately 2 hours.
Arrival in Cusco:
- 6:30 PM: Arrival in Cusco. The tour will conclude at Plaza Regocijo, one block from the Plaza de Armas.
- INCLUDES / EXCLUDED
- INCLUDED
- Professional Guide: Enjoy a guided tour by experts who will provide detailed explanations about each site you visit in the Sacred Valley, ensuring an enriching experience.
- Buffet Lunch in Urubamba: Enjoy a wide variety of dishes at a buffet lunch in a selected restaurant, with vegetarian and vegan options available.
- Entrance to the Sacred Valley Attractions: Access to the main tourist sites of the Sacred Valley, such as Chinchero, Moray, the Salineras de Maras, and Ollantaytambo.
- Train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes: A scenic and relaxing train ride to Aguas Calientes, featuring stunning views of the Sacred Valley.
- Accommodation in Aguas Calientes: Enjoy a night in a comfortable selected hotel in Aguas Calientes, perfect for relaxing before your visit to Machu Picchu.
Day 02: Machu Picchu Tour:
- Breakfast at the Hotel: Start your day with a nutritious and energizing breakfast at the hotel.
- Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu: A bus ride from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of Machu Picchu, featuring spectacular views along the way.
- Entrance Ticket to Machu Picchu, Circuit 02: Guaranteed access to Machu Picchu to explore the historical site through Circuit 02.
- Guided Tour in Machu Picchu: A guided tour inside the citadel, where our expert guide will provide you with rich history about Inca culture and the mysteries of the site.
- Return Bus to Aguas Calientes: After completing the visit, return by bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
- Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo: Return train journey to Ollantaytambo, once again enjoying the beautiful scenery of the Valley.
- Transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco: Comfortable and safe transfer from Ollantaytambo to Cusco, concluding your incredible 2-day experience.
- EXCLUDED
- Meal Coverage: Meals not mentioned in the inclusions should be arranged and paid for separately.
- First Breakfast: The meal on the first day is not included in the package.
- First Day Dinner: You will need to arrange your dinner in Aguas Calientes.
- Second Day Lunch: The lunch after the visit to Machu Picchu is not included.
- Culinary Options in Aguas Calientes: Aguas Calientes offers a wide variety of restaurants and dining options that include local and international cuisine, ensuring there are choices for all dietary preferences.
- WHAT TO PACK
Detailed List of What to Bring for the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu Tour
Essential Items:
- Original Passport: This is absolutely necessary for entering Machu Picchu, so you must carry it with you at all times.
- Original Student Card: If you have applied for a student discount, make sure to bring your original student card to validate it.
Recommended Gear:
- Small Backpack: Ideal for carrying essentials during the tour, such as water, snacks, and personal items.
- Warm Coat or Jacket: The weather in the Andes is unpredictable; bring something warm, especially for the cold mornings and evenings.
- T-Shirts: Two t-shirts for the two days will suffice, but if you sweat a lot, bring an extra one.
- Comfortable Shoes: Footwear with good traction, such as sneakers or hiking boots, is essential for walking at archaeological sites.
- Rain Poncho: Andean weather can change quickly, so a poncho is useful in case of rain.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated throughout the day by bringing your own bottle to reduce plastic use.
- Insect Repellent: To protect yourself from insects, especially in areas like Aguas Calientes.
Sun Protection:
- Sunscreen: The altitude increases the sun’s intensity, even on cloudy days, so it’s important to apply sunscreen.
- Cap or Hat: Helps protect your head and face from the sun.
- Sunglasses: To protect your eyes from the bright sunlight at high altitudes.
Extras:
- Camera: Don’t forget to bring your camera or phone with enough charge to capture the stunning views of Machu Picchu.
- Water and Snacks: Bring some light snacks for the journey, as opportunities to buy food may be limited.
- Cash in Peruvian Soles: Carry some cash in the local currency for souvenir purchases, food, or tips.
This list ensures that you are prepared to face any weather changes and enjoy a comfortable experience during your visit to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
- PRICES
Prices for the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu 2-Day Tour – 2024 and 2025
- Adults: $350 USD per person
- Students: $330 USD per person
- Children (3 to 17 years): $330 USD per person
Student Rate for Machu Picchu: How to Access This Discount
The Peruvian government offers special discounts on entry to Machu Picchu for students who meet certain requirements. These discounts are also reflected in the tour prices we offer.
Requirements to Access the Student Price:
- Age: You must be under 25 years old at the time of the visit.
- Student Card Format: The student card must be physical and plastic (similar to a credit card), with all information printed. Cards with stickers or other formats are not accepted.
- Information on the Card: The card must include:
- Name of the university
- Personal details of the student
- Student photograph
- Validity date (must not expire within a year from the date of the visit)
- ISIC Card: The ISIC card is not accepted for obtaining the discount. Only a student card issued by an official academic institution is allowed.
Important Considerations:
- It is essential that the student card meets the requirements set by the Peruvian government, as it will be requested upon entering Machu Picchu.
- If the card does not meet the requirements, you will have to pay the full entry price upon arrival at Machu Picchu, subject to availability.
It is crucial to ensure that you meet these criteria before booking your tour as a student.
- HOW TO BOOK
Reserving your experience is a simple and straightforward process. Below you will find all the necessary steps and details to complete your booking securely.
Payment Options:
- Debit or Credit Cards: All cards are accepted with an additional charge of 2.9%.
- Clients in the United States: We also offer the option to pay from a bank account with no additional charges.
Prices:
- Adult: $350 USD
- Student or Child: $330 USD
Booking Process:
- Prepayment: A non-refundable prepayment of $180 USD per person is required to confirm your reservation. This amount is used to purchase the tickets immediately, which are personal, non-refundable, and non-reschedulable.
- Remaining Balance: The remaining balance can be paid at our office in Cusco, at least 24 hours before the tour starts. The balance can be paid in cash (Peruvian soles or US dollars) or by card (with an additional charge of 3.9%). You can also opt to pay the balance online with a 2.9% charge.
- Total Payment: If you prefer, you can pay the full cost of the tour at the time of booking. In the event of cancellation, the amount paid will be refunded minus the $180 USD prepayment.
Cancellation Policy:
- The $180 prepayment is non-refundable.
- We recommend reviewing all policies before completing your payment.
Steps to Make the Reservation:
- Start the Booking: Click the “BOOK NOW” button on our website to access the booking platform.
- Select Date and Visitor Type: Choose the desired date and the number of adults, students, or children.
- Add Additional Options: You can add extras such as tickets to Waynapicchu, Machu Picchu Mountain, or upgrade your journey with the Vistadome train.
- Complete the Form: Enter the detailed personal information of each participant.
- Make the Payment: Complete the secure online payment process using any debit or credit card.
After Completing the Reservation:
- You will receive an immediate confirmation email with the details of your transaction.
- Within 24 hours, you will receive an email with the complete information of your reservation, including the permits for the Sacred Valley and the tickets to Machu Picchu.
If you have any questions or need assistance, our team will be available to help you every step of the way. We look forward to being part of your incredible adventure to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu!
Contact our travel advisor to use this itinerary (or others) as a basis for designing your perfect adventure in Peru together!
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BOOK NOW
Reservations on Our Website Are Individual
We do not request any upfront payment until we confirm the availability of your reservation on the selected dates.
Once availability is confirmed, we will send you an email from booking@exploreperu360.com with the link or payment methods available for your country. You can decide whether to cancel the full amount or just a deposit of $180 per person to confirm your reservation.
Once your reservation is confirmed, we will take care of everything. We will be waiting for you on the day of your arrival in Cusco. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us.