The Sacred Valley of the Incas is a breathtaking expanse of quaint villages, ancient ruins, and dramatic landscapes nestled in the rugged mountains northwest of Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire. Valued by the Incas for its prime location, fertile soil, and mild climate, it was Peru’s premier spot for maize cultivation and a hub of natural resources. The sacred Urubamba River (known as Willcamayu to the Incas and partly Vilcanota today) flows through it, embodying a key element of Inca cosmology—linked to the stars, peaks, and even mirroring the Milky Way on Earth.

Machu Picchu stands as an architectural and engineering marvel, shrouded in mystery and recognized globally for its magic. Since 1983, it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site within the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, blending cultural and ecological wonders.

If you’re short on time in Cusco—say, just two days—the must-sees are the Sacred Valley (especially Ollantaytambo and Pisac) and Machu Picchu. Close contenders include the Maras Salt Mines and Moray archaeological site. Our enhanced tour now incorporates these essentials, plus the Ccochahuasi Animal Sanctuary, all in a streamlined two-day format.

We’ve optimized for efficiency, added sustainability focuses, and included tips for a smoother experience, like early access to beat crowds and altitude preparation.

Action Peru Treks, a 100% indigenous-owned operator, is top-rated on TripAdvisor with glowing reviews praising our knowledgeable guides, seamless organization, and commitment to local communities.

Join thousands of satisfied adventurers for an unforgettable journey!

ITINERARY

Day 1: Cusco – Ccochahuasi Sanctuary – Pisac – Maras/Moray – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

Pickup from your Cusco hotel at 7 a.m. kicks off the day. First, visit the Ccochahuasi Animal Sanctuary, a vital conservation project rescuing mistreated and endangered animals, including poached species. Highlight: Their Andean Condor breeding and release program, aiding this at-risk bird’s survival. This stop emphasizes our commitment to sustainable tourism and wildlife protection.

Next, head to Pisac for awe-inspiring Inca ruins. Marvel at the precision engineering of temples and terraces during a 2-hour guided tour. Then, explore Pisac’s vibrant market—the Cusco region’s most authentic—for affordable traditional textiles and a chance to interact with local artisans (enhanced with optional quick cultural demo on weaving techniques).

Enjoy your deluxe box lunch amid the scenic Sacred Valley drive. Near Urubamba, discover Moray’s amphitheater-style terraces, believed to be an Inca agricultural lab for crop optimization.

Continue to the Maras Salt Mines, a colonial-era site with over 3,000 pools fed by a natural spring – still harvested sustainably today. The mosaic-like landscape is stunning and photogenic.

A short 30-minute drive brings you to Ollantaytambo, an Inca palace of pink granite showcasing masterful craftsmanship, including a massive 90-ton Sun Temple stone. Enjoy a guided tour here.

Savor dinner at a top-rated Ollantaytambo restaurant with authentic Peruvian dishes, now featuring locally sourced, organic ingredients for an eco-conscious twist.

Board the train to Aguas Calientes (recommend upgrading to Vistadome for panoramic views of glaciers, peaks, valleys, and terraces). Check into your hotel for a relaxing evening.

DAY 2: Machu Picchu and Return to Cusco

Rise early and energize with a hearty breakfast before hopping on the scenic bus for a thrilling, winding ascent to the iconic Machu Picchu. Brace yourself for an awe-inspiring adventure to the “Lost City of the Incas,” dramatically rediscovered in 1911 by Hiram Bingham and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 for its unparalleled cultural and architectural significance.

The Guided Exploration

Kick off your visit with an immersive 2-hour guided tour led by a knowledgeable expert. Stroll along time-worn stone paths as they animate the site’s rich tapestry—revealing the Incas’ masterful engineering, astronomical alignments, agricultural terraces, and mystical rituals that once pulsed through this high-altitude stronghold. Gain insights into the daily lives of its ancient inhabitants, from priests to farmers, amid breathtaking panoramic vistas.

Free Time & Huayna Picchu Challenge

After the tour, dive into self-guided exploration of the vast sanctuary – wander hidden temples, marvel at intricate stonework, or simply soak in the ethereal atmosphere. For adrenaline seekers, opt for the exhilarating Huayna Picchu hike (advance permit essential; limited daily slots). This steep, 45–60-minute climb rewards intrepid hikers with jaw-dropping, 360-degree overlooks of Machu Picchu sprawling below, plus glimpses of lesser-known ruins along the way. Pro tip: Wear sturdy shoes, bring water, and check weather conditions for safety.

Return Journey to Cusco

Bid farewell to the heights by bus back to Aguas Calientes, then settle into the plush Expedition train for a relaxing ride through the Sacred Valley. Gaze out at lush Andean landscapes, rushing rivers, and quaint villages en route to Ollantaytambo or Poroy station. A private transfer awaits to escort you seamlessly to your Cusco hotel, wrapping up a day of profound Incan immersion and lifelong memories.

SERVICES INCLUDED

• Professional English-speaking bilingual guide: A certified guide fluent in English and Spanish, offering expert narration, historical insights, and logistical support throughout the tour for clear communication and site understanding.
• Transport from your hotel to sites of the Sacred Valley and the Ollantaytambo train station: Private vehicle transport from your Cusco-area hotel to attractions (e.g., Pisac, Moray) and then to Ollantaytambo train station.
• Expedition train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes: Standard-class Peru Rail Expedition train ticket with comfortable seating and scenic views for the 1.5-hour ride along the Urubamba River to Aguas Calientes.
• Expedition train ticket from Aguas Calientes to either Ollantaytambo or to Poroy: Return Peru Rail Expedition ticket with flexible drop-off at Ollantaytambo (1.5 hours) or Poroy (25 minutes from Cusco), based on schedule.
• Bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu round trip: Round-trip tickets for Consettur shuttle bus, a 20–30-minute ride up Hiram Bingham Highway to Machu Picchu entrance and back, with frequent service and assigned seats.
• Entrance fee to Machu Picchu: Official admission ticket to the Machu Picchu site, granting access to the Inca citadel, terraces, temples, and viewpoints in regulated time slots for preservation.
• Deluxe box lunch on day 1: Premium packed lunch on day one, including sandwiches, fruits, salads, snacks, and drinks for convenient eating during Sacred Valley excursions.
• Dinner on night one in Ollantaytambo: Evening meal in Ollantaytambo on night one, featuring local Peruvian dishes like quinoa, grilled meats, or Andean specialties at a restaurant.
• Transportation from the Ollantaytambo train station to your Cusco hotel: Private vehicle transport from Ollantaytambo station back to your Cusco hotel, a 1.5-2-hour drive through the Andes.
• Breakfast on Day 2: Morning meal on day two at your Aguas Calientes hotel, with continental or buffet options like eggs, bread, fruits, yogurt, coffee, and local items.
• One night lodging in Aguas Calientes (double occupancy): One-night hotel stay in Aguas Calientes for two sharing a room, with amenities like private bath, Wi-Fi, and possible mountain views; upgrades available.

NOT Included

• Breakfast on day 1: Morning meal on the first day, typically eaten at your hotel or independently before the tour begins, not provided by the package.
• Lunch on day 2: Midday meal on the second day, usually after visiting Machu Picchu, to be arranged and paid for on your own in Aguas Calientes or nearby.
• Tourist ticket for entrance to Sacred Valley archeological sites (US $21 per person): Required Boleto Turístico pass granting access to multiple Inca ruins in the Sacred Valley like Pisac and Ollantaytambo, purchased separately at the first visited site.
• Entrance fee for Maras salt mines (20 soles / US $6 per person): Admission cost to visit the ancient evaporating salt ponds in Maras, a popular Sacred Valley attraction with terraced pools.
• Entrance to Cochahuasi (20 soles / US $6 per person): Entry fee for the Cochahuasi Animal Sanctuary in the Sacred Valley, featuring rescued Andean wildlife like condors, alpacas, and vicuñas.
• Huayna Picchu Permit (USD $75 per person): Optional add-on ticket for climbing Huayna Picchu mountain at Machu Picchu, offering panoramic views but limited daily slots.
• Tips for staff: Gratuities for guides, drivers, and other tour personnel, given at your discretion based on service quality.
• Travel Insurance: Personal coverage for health, trip cancellation, or emergencies, recommended but not included; obtain from your provider.

What to bring to Machu Picchu

• Original passport: This is your official government-issued identification document containing your personal details, photo, and visa stamps, essential for international travel, border crossings, and verifying identity at checkpoints or accommodations.
• Backpack: A versatile, hands-free bag typically worn on the back, ideal for carrying essentials like water, snacks, and small gear during day trips or hikes, offering comfort and easy access without restricting movement.
• Tourist ticket: A pre-purchased entry pass or voucher required for access to specific attractions, sites, or tours, often including details like validity dates and sometimes bundled with transportation or guided services to avoid on-site queues.
• Sturdy Hiking boots: Durable, supportive footwear with thick soles, ankle protection, and good traction, designed for rugged terrain to prevent slips, provide comfort on long walks, and protect feet from rocks, mud, or uneven paths.
• Layers for variable temperatures: Clothing items like base layers, fleeces, or jackets that can be easily added or removed to adapt to fluctuating weather, such as cool mornings turning into warm afternoons, ensuring comfort without overheating or chilling.
• Sun protection (sunscreen/sun hat/sunglasses): Essential items to shield against harmful UV rays; sunscreen is a lotion or spray applied to skin for burn prevention, a sun hat provides shade for the head and face, and sunglasses protect eyes from glare and reduce squinting.
• Insect repellent: A spray, lotion, or wipe containing chemicals like DEET to deter biting insects such as mosquitoes or flies, helping prevent bites, itchiness, and potential disease transmission in buggy environments.
• Rain poncho or rain jacket: Lightweight, waterproof outerwear; a poncho is a simple, disposable sheet-like cover, while a jacket offers more fitted protection with hoods and zippers, both keeping you dry during sudden showers without adding much bulk.
• Toiletries / toilet paper / small towel: Basic personal hygiene essentials including soap, shampoo, toothbrush, etc., plus extra rolls of toilet paper for areas with limited facilities, and a compact, quick-dry towel for washing up or drying off.
• Bathing clothes for the hot springs (optional): Swimwear like a swimsuit, trunks, or rash guard suitable for soaking in thermal pools, allowing you to enjoy natural hot springs comfortably if the opportunity arises during your trip.
• Water bottle: A reusable container, often insulated or made of durable plastic/metal, for carrying and sipping water to maintain hydration, especially in active or remote areas where refills might be available but bottled water is wasteful.
• Personal medication: Any prescription drugs, over-the-counter remedies, or supplements specific to your health needs, such as allergy pills, pain relievers, or treatments for altitude sickness, packed in original packaging with enough supply for the trip duration.

PRICES & ADD-ONS

Group: USD $600 per person
Private: USD $650 per person

Group versus Private Treks: What’s the difference?

• Depending on the number of people in your booking, additional people may join the trek to make a full group.
• If you choose “private”, no additional people will be joining your group, no matter the size.
• Minimum booking size is two people; one person may book a group trek if Action Peru Treks is able to join that person with additional groups.

Upgrades

• Return Vistadome train – USD $80 per person
• Return Hiram Bingham train– USD $520 per person
• Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel (5-star hotel) – USD $255 Per person per night (double occupancy)
• Inkaterra El Pueblo Machu Picchu Hotel (5-star hotel) – USD $250 Per person per night (double occupancy)
• El Mapi Hotel by Inkaterra  (4-star hotel) – USD $115 Per person per night (double occupancy)
• Tierra viva Machu Picchu (3+ star hotel) – USD $50 Per person per night (double occupancy)

Discounts

• Under 18 years discount: UDS $20 per person

FAQs: Extended Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu 2 Days and 1 Night Tour

Here are the most frequently asked questions about our enhanced 2-day tour, based on common traveler inquiries and tailored to the itinerary, inclusions, and details provided. If your question isn’t covered, feel free to contact Action Peru Treks for personalized assistance.

1.- What is the tour duration, starting point, and group size?

This is a 2-day, 1-night tour starting and ending in Cusco, Peru. Pickup is from your Cusco hotel around 7 a.m. on Day 1, with return drop-off between 8-9 p.m. on Day 2. Group tours accommodate up to 8-16 people (potentially including others unless you book private), while private tours ensure exclusivity for your party (minimum 2 people; singles can join groups).

2.- What sites are visited on this tour?

Day 1 covers the Ccochahuasi Animal Sanctuary, Pisac ruins and market, Moray agricultural terraces, Maras Salt Mines, and Ollantaytambo ruins. Day 2 focuses on Machu Picchu with a guided tour and free exploration time. This itinerary packs in the Sacred Valley highlights and the iconic citadel for a comprehensive experience.

3.- Do I need to book in advance, and how do I book?

Yes, booking ahead is essential, especially during peak season (April-October), as Machu Picchu tickets, train seats, and Huayna Picchu permits sell out quickly—often 1-3 months in advance. Book directly through Action Peru Treks via their website or email. Provide your passport details for tickets. A pre-tour briefing 1-2 days before departure will confirm all details.

4.- What is included and not included in the tour price?

Included: Professional bilingual guide, all transportation (hotel pickup/drop-off, Sacred Valley sites, train station transfers), Expedition train tickets (round-trip), round-trip bus to Machu Picchu, Machu Picchu entrance fee (timed slot), deluxe box lunch (Day 1), authentic Peruvian dinner (Day 1), hotel breakfast (Day 2), one night in Aguas Calientes (double occupancy, eco-friendly options), and pre-tour briefing.

Not included: Breakfast (Day 1), lunch (Day 2; optional add-on for $15/person), Sacred Valley tourist ticket ($21 USD/person), Maras entrance (10 soles/$3 USD), Ccochahuasi entrance (20 soles/$7 USD), Huayna Picchu permit ($75 USD), tips for staff, and travel insurance (strongly recommended).

5.- How much does the tour cost, and are there discounts or upgrades?

Group tour: $600 USD per person. Private tour: $650 USD per person. Discounts: $20 USD for under 18s. Upgrades include Vistadome train ($60 USD/person for panoramic views), Hiram Bingham luxury train ($420 USD/person), premium hotels in Aguas Calientes (from $50-$255 USD per person/night, double occupancy), and Huayna Picchu hike ($75 USD; limited availability—book early).

6.- Do I need a guide for Machu Picchu, and is one provided?

Yes, an official guide is required for your initial entry to Machu Picchu under current regulations. Our tour includes a professional bilingual (English-Spanish) guide for the 2-hour walking tour, providing historical and cultural insights. After the guided portion, you’ll have free time to explore independently (respect rules: no re-entry, no food/large bags inside).

7.- Can I add Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain to the tour?

Yes, you can add the Huayna Picchu hike for $75 USD per person (permits limited to 400 daily; book at least 1-2 months ahead). It’s a steep, 2-3 hour climb offering stunning aerial views—suitable for those in good fitness without vertigo.

Only one extra hike per day is allowed. Request this when booking; we’ll check availability. Machu Picchu Mountain is an alternative for wider paths and fewer crowds.

8.- What if my preferred Machu Picchu circuit or time slot isn’t available?

Machu Picchu uses timed circuits (e.g., Circuit 2 for classic views). We’ll secure the best available slot and circuit for your date. If your first choice is sold out, we’ll adapt with Circuit 1 or 3 for a similar comprehensive experience—your guide will adjust accordingly.

9.- What physical fitness level is required, and is the tour suitable for children or seniors?

No strenuous trekking is involved—just moderate walking on uneven paths, stairs, and inclines at archaeological sites. Basic fitness is sufficient; we maintain a relaxed pace with breaks. It’s suitable for children and seniors, but inform us of any mobility needs. Sturdy hiking boots are recommended. For Huayna Picchu, good fitness is essential.

10.- How should I prepare for altitude sickness?

The tour reaches altitudes up to 3,800m (12,467 ft) at Machu Picchu and higher in the Sacred Valley. Acclimate in Cusco (3,400m/11,155 ft) for 1-2 days before the tour. Drink plenty of water, avoid heavy meals/alcohol initially, and consider coca tea/leaves or medications like acetazolamide (consult a doctor). Our “What to Bring” list includes personal medications and altitude remedies.

11.- When is the best time to visit, and does the tour run year-round?

The dry season (April-October) offers clearer weather and views but more crowds. The rainy season (November-March) is greener with fewer visitors but possible showers—bring a rain poncho.

We operate year-round, but book early for June-August peaks. Avoid major holidays if preferring quieter times.

12.- What should I bring, and where can I store extra baggage?

Essential items: Original passport (required for entry), backpack (max 40x35x20 cm), tourist ticket, sturdy boots, layered clothing, sun protection, insect repellent, rain gear, refillable water bottle, personal meds, cash (soles/USD for fees/tips), and snacks (no food inside Machu Picchu). Promote no single-use plastics. Leave main luggage at your Cusco hotel (most offer free storage) or our office during the tour—carry only an overnight bag for Aguas Calientes.

13.- Are meals customizable, and what about dietary restrictions?

Day 1 includes a deluxe box lunch and sustainable Peruvian dinner; Day 2 has hotel breakfast. Lunch on Day 2 is not included but can be added. Inform us of vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other needs when booking—we’ll accommodate with locally sourced options.

14.- How much should I tip the staff in my Sacred valley trip and Machu Picchu?

Tipping is optional but appreciated for excellent service. Suggest $5-10 USD per person for the guide and $3-5 USD for drivers/porters, based on group size. It’s a way to thank the team for their efforts.

15.- Can I extend my stay or customize the tour?

Yes—add an extra night in Aguas Calientes for relaxation or a second Machu Picchu visit (extra fees for hotel, tickets, train changes). End in Ollantaytambo instead of Cusco for an additional fee. For longer extensions like the Inca Trail, book permits early (2026 slots open soon). Private tours allow more customizatio