Sacred Valley Tour and Train to Machu Picchu: The Ultimate 2-Day Cultural Journey
The Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour is the perfect option for travelers who want to explore the most iconic highlights of the Cusco region in a short time. This journey combines cultural visits, stunning Andean landscapes, and a scenic train ride through the valley.
During the tour, visitors explore important Inca sites such as Pisac Archaeological Park and Ollantaytambo, before traveling by train to Aguas Calientes to visit the legendary Machu Picchu.
Itinerary at a Glance
- Day 1: Cusco – Pisac Archaeological Park – Sacred Valley – Ollantaytambo – Train to Aguas Calientes. Full-day exploration of the Sacred Valley visiting Pisac and Ollantaytambo before boarding the train to Aguas Calientes for the night.
- Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco. Morning bus ride to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of the citadel, followed by the return to Cusco by train and transfer to the hotel.
Itinerary
To begin the Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Train Tour, our team will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at either 7 or 8 a.m., depending on your chosen train schedule for the return journey. Accompanied by your knowledgeable guide, you’ll travel in the comfort of our private transportation to the first destination—the Awanacancha Alpaca farm. Here, you’ll encounter the traditional animals of the Incas, including llamas, alpacas, viñuna, and guanaco. Your guide will provide insightful background information, showcasing a potato display and a textile center, demonstrating the intricate process of weaving and coloring alpaca wool. High-quality alpaca wool items will be available for purchase. Following this, we’ll proceed to El Mirador del Valle Sagrado, the Sacred Valley Lookout Point, offering breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
Next on our itinerary is the renowned Pisaq Market, where Andean village women gather to sell their textiles and produce. The market, bustling with activity, is open daily, with peak days on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays.
After the market visit, we’ll continue our journey to the Pisaq Inca Archeological site atop Pisaq Mountain in the Sacred Valley. Your guide will lead you to the most impressive vantage points.
Subsequently, we’ll embark on a scenic 45-minute drive along the valley to Urubamba, where a delightful lunch awaits you. Indulge in a diverse selection of freshly prepared dishes served buffet-style. Post-lunch, we’ll head to Ollantaytambo to marvel at the second-heaviest Inca monoliths. The ruins boast an impressive Temple of the Sun, Moon, and The Temple of the 10 Niches. This living Incan town features narrow walkways adorned with water channels.
Your departure train is scheduled for 16:36 p.m. It’s advisable to arrive at the train station 30 minutes before departure. The train journey to Aguas Calientes, lasting just under two hours, descends into the Cloud Forest, adorned with orchids, bromeliads, and ferns. Upon arrival, our representatives will be waiting just outside the train station to escort you to your hotel.
- Accommodation: Hotel ***
- Tour Type: Historical and Cultural Experience with a Private Van Tour and Scenic Train Ride to Machu Picchu
- Meals: Inclusive
- Highlights: Alpaca farm exploration, Pisaq Inca Archeological site visit, Pisaq Market immersion, Ollantaytambo town and archeological site discovery, and arrival in Aguas Calientes.
The most anticipated day has arrived! You will visit Machu Picchu, the renowned Sacred City of the Incas—an emblem of the Inca civilization. With your knowledgeable tour guide, the optimal time to begin your day will be determined. Many prefer an early start at 4 a.m., heading to the bus station to catch one of the initial buses to Machu Picchu, arriving as the ruins open at 6 a.m. This allows you to witness the enchanting mists embracing the ruins as the sun ascends.
Following a scenic 25-minute bus ride to Machu Picchu, your guide will lead you to the finest vantage points before the influx of day-trippers. Subsequently, a comprehensive two-hour guided walking tour will unfold, unveiling the secrets of this remarkable citadel. Explore iconic sites such as the Temple of the Sun, The Royal Tomb, The Intihuatana (sundial rock), Main Plaza, Temple of the 3 Windows, The Artisan Sector, the Condor Temple, and more.
For those with permits to ascend Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain, the adventure awaits.
Afterward, descend by bus to Aguas Calientes, allowing at least 2 hours before your train departure to savor lunch at one of the charming local restaurants. Ensure you arrive at the train station 30 minutes before departure. Typically, our train departs at 14:30 p.m. to Ollantaytambo, where our private transportation awaits for a two-hour drive back to Cusco. If you desire, upgrading to the Vistadome-class service is available for an additional 75 USD one way.
Note: Machu Picchu Inca site is distinct from Machu Picchu Mountain. While Machu Picchu refers to the archaeological site, climbing Machu Picchu Mountain requires a separate permit. If interested, please inform us in advance for booking. The Sacred Valley Tour & Train to Machu Picchu encompasses a day of Sacred Valley exploration and a day dedicated to unraveling the mysteries of Machu Picchu—the perfect blend of cultural and historical immersion.
- Accommodation: No hotel as we return to Cusco this day
- Tour Type: Historical and cultural Machu Picchu tour and exploration
- Meals: Breakfast at the hotel, lunch in Aguas Calientes. Dinner not included.
- Highlights: A Full Day immersed in the splendor of Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes.
Includes
Guides: Our professional guides, graduates of English and tourism from Cusco National University, embody a genuine passion for imparting their heritage. Ensuring your safety and joy, they strike a delightful balance between fun and professionalism.
Hotel: Enjoy a stay at a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes, typically La Cabana Hotel (subject to availability). Upgrade options to any hotel in the town are available for the price difference. Opting for the tour without a hotel deducts $50 per person from the listed price. Our pricing is based on double occupancy, with a $50 surcharge for a single room at La Cabana (prices vary by hotel).
Transportation: Seamless logistics are our commitment. Commencing at 8 a.m., we pick you up directly from your hotel. After savoring dinner in Ollantaytambo, embark on the 7 p.m. expedition train to Aguas Calientes. The return journey is aboard the expedition-class train. Consider Vistadome upgrades at $75 per person (one way) or $125 per person (round-trip). Upon train station arrival, we ensure your return to your Cusco hotel. Your round-trip bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu is part of the package.
Train Tickets: Expedition tourist class secures your journey. Departing Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes at 16:36 pm and returning at 14:30 pm. Opt for the Vistadome train at $75 (one way) or $125 (round trip) for timings at 15:37 pm (Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes) and 15:20 pm (Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo).
Meals: Relish a stop for lunch during the Sacred Valley tour, with dinner at an Ollantaytambo restaurant. Breakfast awaits at your hotel. All three meals are included.
Entrance Tickets: A one-day tourist ticket for Sacred Valley and entry to Machu Picchu encompass your comprehensive tour experience.
Does not include
- Tips
- Travel insurance
- Others not mentioned
Recommendations
- Comfortable Footwear: Wear sturdy walking shoes or sneakers. You will be walking on uneven Inca stone steps.
- Sun Protection: The sun at high altitude is strong. Bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-factor sunscreen.
- Clothing: Dress in layers. The weather in Cusco can change quickly, so carry a lightweight rain jacket or poncho.
- Documents: Bring your original Passport. It is often required to enter specific archaeological sites even with the ticket included.
- Hydration: Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and help with acclimatization.
- Cash: Small change (Soles) is useful for buying souvenirs or tipping.
Prices
With the flexibility to depart any day of the week, all year round, our tours require a minimum of two participants.
$500 per person
Hotel:
This is a 3 star hotel. It is assumed you will share a room, either a double, matrimonial or triple. There is a single room surcharge of $60 per person, if you are booking alone. Rooms include private bathrooms with hot showers and wifi. We can also upgrade your hotel, if you prefer something fancier. Please remember that the service in Aguas Calientes may not be comparable to that of Cusco.
Student Discount:
Our student discounts are applicable to individuals with a valid UNIVERSITY STUDENT CARD or those aged 17 or younger. If you’re utilizing a university student card for the discount, kindly provide a copy at the time of booking. For bookings involving children aged 17 or younger, we require a copy of their passport submitted to info@camstravelperu. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated.
$30 off per person
More Information about STUDENT CARD
Additional Items:
We offer a variety of optional upgrades for you to enhance your experience. Here’s a brief list of prices.
Huayna Picchu: $75 per person
Vistadome Train (one way): $75 per person
Vistadome Train (round trip): $125 per person
More Info
Additional Options
As highlighted in our Additional Options section, you have the opportunity to enhance your trip with various upgrades.
- Destination: Majestic Machu Picchu, the enchanting Sacred Valley, and the historic Pisaq ruins
- Tour Type: Overnight journey by train
- Ideal For: Suitable for all, whether in small, intimate groups or as a private experience
- Level of Challenge: No trekking involved, though there will be ample walking around the captivating ruins
- Tour Highlights: Immerse yourself in the vibrant Pisaq market, explore the captivating Pisaq ruins, marvel at the formidable Ollantaytambo fortress, and experience the iconic Machu Picchu.
- Language: To ensure a seamless experience, our tours are conducted exclusively in English. Should you prefer a Spanish tour, we kindly request arranging a private booking at the time of initial reservation.
- Group Size: Tailored for a personalized journey, accommodating a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 8 participants.
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Sacred Valley Tour and Train to Machu Picchu: The Ultimate 2-Day Cultural Journey
3-days, 2 nights cultural odyssey through the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu.
$ 500.00
Per Person
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Quick Stats
Duration
3-days, 2 nights cultural odyssey through the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu.
Physical Rating
Moderate
Trip Type
Adventure
Team
Experienced Guide, Transportation
