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Explore the ancient heart of the Inca Empire with combined tours of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. Ranging from two to six days, these guided trips include historic sites like Pisac, scenic train rides, and entry to the iconic citadel.
Explore the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu by train, visiting Inca ruins and local weavers in a small group.
Likely to Sell Out Discover the Sacred Valley’s ruins and artisan traditions before heading to Machu Picchu with a local guide.
Free Cancellation Explore the history and living culture of Cusco, the former capital and symbolic heart of the Inca Empire.
Likely to Sell Out A two-day guided journey through the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu with small groups and hotel pickup.
Explore the Sacred Valley’s ruins and salt mines before a private guided tour of Machu Picchu over two days.
Likely to Sell Out Discover the Sacred Valley's ancient sites and markets before an overnight stay and a guided tour of Machu Picchu.
A private five-day journey through Cusco's historic streets, the Sacred Valley, and the ruins of Machu Picchu.
Likely to Sell Out A private two-day journey through the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, tailored to your pace with a local expert.
Visit Pisac and Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley, followed by a panoramic train journey to Machu Picchu.
Free Cancellation Travel through the Sacred Valley’s traditional villages and along the Vilcanota River on your way to Machu Picchu.
Read what travelers share about their experience visiting Sacred Valley — from practical tips to personal highlights.
A tour of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu combines the rich living culture of the Andean highlands with some of the world's most spectacular archaeological sites. You will travel through fertile river valleys, explore massive stone fortresses, and take a scenic train ride through the mountains before arriving at the iconic lost city of the Incas.
Explore dramatic hillside terraces and ancient ceremonial baths overlooking the valley. Afterward, browse the vibrant local market where artisans sell traditional textiles and crafts.
Climb the massive stone steps of this spectacular Inca stronghold. It remains a living testament to advanced urban planning and was a historic battleground against the Spanish.
Walk past more than 5,000 ancient salt-evaporation ponds terraced along a steep mountainside. These patchwork pools have been manually harvested since pre-Inca times.
View giant circular depressions carved into the earth that resemble amphitheaters. The Incas used these unique terraces as an agricultural laboratory to experiment with different microclimates.
Board a tourist train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. The carriage windows offer panoramic views of the Urubamba River and the shifting Andean landscape.
Discover the breathtaking mountain citadel. Most tours prioritize securing Circuit 2 tickets, giving you the classic and most comprehensive route through the ancient ruins.
Planning a multi-day trip through the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu requires coordinating tickets, transport, and timing. Here is what you need to know before securing your reservation.
The most common option is a 2-day overnight tour, though 5- or 6-day comprehensive packages covering Cusco are also available. You can choose between small-group excursions or private tours that allow you to set your own pace.
Machu Picchu has strict daily capacity limits and hourly entry shifts. You should book your tour at least 2 to 3 months in advance to ensure the operator can secure priority Circuit 2 tickets before they sell out.
Tours generally include your Machu Picchu entrance, train tickets, and the Consettur bus ride. However, the Cusco Tourist Ticket (S/. 130) for Sacred Valley sites and the Maras cash entry fee (10 Soles) are often excluded and must be purchased on-site.
If you are traveling between January and April, the Poroy train station near Cusco closes for seasonal maintenance. During this rainy season window, tour operators will automatically route your train departure from Ollantaytambo instead.
PeruRail and Inca Rail have strict luggage limits. You will need to pack a small overnight backpack for your stay in Aguas Calientes and leave your larger checked suitcases securely stored at your Cusco hotel.
Because Machu Picchu entrance tickets and train passes are strictly non-refundable and non-transferable under Peruvian law, the majority of these tours operate with an 'all sales are final' policy.
The Sacred Valley sits at roughly 9,000 feet, which is significantly lower than Cusco. Spending your first day touring the valley helps your body acclimate gradually and reduces the risk of altitude sickness.
| 2-Day Group Tour by Train | 2-Day Private Tour | 5-Day Comprehensive Package | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duration | 2 Days / 1 Night | 2 Days / 1 Night | 5 Days / 4 Nights |
| Best for | Budget-conscious travelers wanting the major highlights | Couples or families wanting a customized, flexible pace | Travelers wanting a complete Cusco, Valley, and Citadel itinerary |
| Includes | Machu Picchu entry, train/bus tickets, 3-star hotel, guided tours | Private transport, Machu Picchu entry, train/bus tickets, hotel, private guide | Airport transfers, multiple hotel nights, all major tours, most meals |
| Price from | $429 | $549 | $893 |
Archaeological Sites: Major Sacred Valley ruins like Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Moray are open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Local Markets: Markets in Pisac and Chinchero begin setting up early. The best time to visit for photography and avoiding crowds is between 6:30 AM and 9:00 AM.
Machu Picchu: Entry is strictly regulated by hourly shifts running from 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Your specific entry time will be printed on your ticket, and you must adhere to that window.
By Train: PeruRail and Inca Rail operate services from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, taking about 1.5 hours. Note that the Poroy station near Cusco closes from January to April.
By Private Taxi: Hiring a private taxi from Cusco to Ollantaytambo takes about 1.5 hours and costs between S/. 80.00 and S/. 100.00.
By Colectivo: Shared vans depart from Av. Huayruropata in Cusco. This is the cheapest option, costing roughly S/. 15 to S/. 20 per person for the 2-hour ride into the valley.
Dry Season (May to October): This is the optimal time to visit, offering sunny days and minimal rainfall. June, July, and August are the peak tourist months, requiring advance booking for all tours.
Rainy Season (November to April): Heavy precipitation is common, especially from January to April. While the landscapes are lush and green, train routes from Cusco are altered, and trails can be slippery.
Time of Day: Early morning departures (7:00 AM - 8:00 AM) are highly recommended to beat the large tour bus crowds that typically flood the valley sites by 10:00 AM.
Terrain: The Sacred Valley floor is relatively flat, making sites like the Maras Salt Mines highly manageable. The Moray terraces offer an accessible main viewpoint.
Physical Challenges: Hillside ruins such as Pisac and Ollantaytambo feature very steep, uneven stone steps that are difficult for travelers with mobility issues.
Altitude: At 9,000 feet, the valley is much easier on the cardiovascular system than Cusco (11,150 feet). This makes it a great starting point for elderly travelers and children to acclimate safely.
Luggage Storage: Because trains to Machu Picchu only allow small backpacks (under 40 x 35 x 20 cm), you will need to leave your large luggage behind. Most hotels in Cusco offer free, secure luggage storage during your overnight trip.
Restrooms: Public restrooms are available at the entrances to all major archaeological sites, usually costing 1 or 2 Soles to use. Carry small change and your own toilet paper.
Food and Drink: Water and light snacks are allowed, but full meals and eating utensils are prohibited inside the ruins. Excellent local restaurants can be found in Urubamba and along the road to Chinchero.
Most tours include your Machu Picchu entrance ticket (usually Circuit 2) and round-trip train tickets. However, the Cusco Tourist Ticket (S/. 130) for Sacred Valley sites and the Maras Salt Mines cash entry fee (10 Soles) are often excluded and must be paid locally.
Trains have strict luggage policies allowing only one small backpack or carry-on bag per passenger. You must leave your large suitcases at your Cusco hotel, which typically provides free storage while you are on the tour.
Tour operators prioritize booking Circuit 2, known as the classic route, as it offers the most comprehensive view of the citadel. If you book late and Circuit 2 is sold out, you will be assigned Circuit 1 or 3 as an alternative.
The Sacred Valley is at 9,000 feet, which is lower than Cusco (11,150 feet) and helps your body acclimate. It is recommended to stay hydrated, avoid heavy meals, and take it easy on your first day to prevent symptoms.
Between January and April, the Poroy train station near Cusco closes for track maintenance due to the weather. During this time, tours will automatically arrange for your train to depart from the Ollantaytambo station instead.
No, drones are completely banned at all archaeological sites in the region. Tripods, monopods, selfie sticks, and camera stabilizers are also prohibited without a special commercial permit from the Ministry of Culture.
Pack flexible layers, a rain jacket, a hat, and strong sunscreen. Mornings in the Andes can be chilly, but the midday sun is intense. Sturdy, slip-resistant shoes are essential for climbing steep stone steps at the ruins.
Breakfast at your Aguas Calientes hotel is almost always included on day two. Some tours include a buffet lunch in the Sacred Valley, but dinners and other meals are typically at your own expense.
While flat areas like the Maras Salt Mines are manageable, hillside ruins like Ollantaytambo have steep stone steps. Machu Picchu has very limited accessibility, so booking a specialized private tour is highly recommended for wheelchair users.
Due to strict Peruvian regulations regarding Machu Picchu tickets and train passes, most 2-day and multi-day tours have a strict non-refundable and non-transferable cancellation policy. You must provide accurate passport details at the time of booking.
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This two-day trip leaves Cusco for the Sacred Valley, starting with a visit to a local sanctuary to see alpacas and vicuñas. You will explore the stone terraces of Pisac and the massive Inca fortress at Ollantaytambo, one of the few places where the original Inca town layout remains intact. After exploring the valley, you will board the train for a scenic ride along the Urubamba River to reach the base of Machu Picchu. The second day is dedicated to a guided tour of the citadel itself. We travel in small groups with local guides to ensure you get a clear understanding of the history and architecture without the rush of a large tour.
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
English, Spanish
This two-day journey begins with an exploration of the Sacred Valley’s most significant historical sites. Starting from Cusco, you will visit a local artisan center to learn about traditional weaving and meet the region's native alpacas and llamas. The tour continues through the valley with stops at the Inca ruins and villages of Pisaq, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo, providing essential historical context for the region’s ancient architecture. Following the valley tour, you will take the train from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu town. The second day is dedicated to a guided tour of the Machu Picchu archaeological site. Accompanied by an expert local indigenous guide, you will explore the citadel’s history and construction, using the knowledge gained in the Sacred Valley to better understand the site's cultural importance.
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
English, Spanish
Cusco served as the political and spiritual center of the Inca Empire, known to its people as the navel of the world. This tour explores the city's unique architectural landscape, where massive Inca stonework serves as the literal foundation for colonial buildings and modern streets. You will see how the city functioned as a seat of power and how those structures were adapted over the centuries. The experience bridges the gap between ancient history and contemporary life. By visiting key historical sites and observing the daily routines of the local community, you will gain a clearer understanding of a culture that remains active today. The tour provides a direct look at the traditions and engineering that define this Andean highland hub.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This two-day trip covers the major landmarks of the Sacred Valley before visiting Machu Picchu. On the first day, you will travel from your hotel in Cusco to the textile village of Chinchero, the circular agricultural terraces of Moray, and the Maras salt mines. After a stop in Urubamba, you will explore the ruins of Ollantaytambo before taking the train to Aguas Calientes for an overnight stay. The second day is dedicated to Machu Picchu, where you will have the opportunity to see the sunrise over the citadel. To ensure a personalized experience, groups are limited to 10 people, allowing for a relaxed pace at each archaeological site. Professional guides are available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese to provide historical context and answer questions throughout the journey. All logistics are included, from door-to-door transfers in modern vehicles to hotel accommodation and breakfast in Aguas Calientes. This itinerary is designed to provide ample time at each location without the pressure of a rushed schedule.
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Portuguese, English, Spanish
This two-day private tour begins in the Sacred Valley, visiting the Chinchero market and archaeological site, the Moray agricultural terraces, and the Maras salt mines. The day concludes at the Ollantaytambo fortress before boarding an afternoon train to Aguas Calientes, where you will spend the night. On the second day, a professional guide leads a comprehensive tour of the Machu Picchu citadel. Following the visit, there is time to visit the local hot springs in Aguas Calientes before taking the return train to Cusco. This service is fully inclusive and can be customized to your pace.
If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
Portuguese, English, Spanish
This two-day journey begins in the Sacred Valley, starting with a visit to the Awacancha farm to see alpacas and llamas. You will then explore the ancient Inca tombs and handicraft market in Pisaq before heading to the stone streets of Ollantaytambo. In the evening, you’ll board a train to Aguas Calientes for an overnight stay in a 3-star hotel, where you can visit the local hot springs or explore the town's markets. The second day focuses on the Machu Picchu citadel. You’ll arrive early to see the ruins at sunrise, with a professional native guide leading you through the terraces, palaces, and temples. There is also time to hike to the Sun Gate or the Inca Bridge for a different perspective of the site. The trip concludes with a return journey to Cusco aboard the Vistadome panoramic train, offering wide views of the Andean landscape.
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
English, Spanish
This five-day private tour covers the essential sites of the Cusco region, including the city center, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu. You will see how Inca stonework and Spanish colonial buildings sit side-by-side in the city before heading into the mountains to visit archeological sites and local markets. The itinerary is designed for travelers who want a thorough introduction to the area without feeling rushed. Because the tour is private, you can move at your own pace and spend more time at the landmarks that interest you most. An experienced guide will lead each excursion, providing historical context and handling the logistics of transportation and entry.
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
English, Spanish
This two-day private tour is designed for travelers who want to see the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu without the constraints of a large group. Starting in Cusco, you will spend the first day exploring the valley’s traditional villages and Inca ruins. Having a private guide allows you to adjust the pace to suit your interests as you learn about the region’s history and architecture. After traveling through the valley, you will head to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of the archaeological site. Your guide will walk you through the most significant areas of the ruins, providing context on their historical importance. This itinerary focuses on efficiency and personal attention, ensuring you get a comprehensive look at these iconic locations in a short timeframe.
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
English, Spanish
This tour covers the primary historical sites of the Sacred Valley. You will begin at the Pisac archaeological complex to see its agricultural terraces and masonry, followed by a stop at the town’s traditional market. The route continues to Ollantaytambo, where you will explore the Inca fortress and the town’s original stone streets. In the afternoon, you will board a panoramic train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. This route follows the Urubamba River through the mountains, providing a scenic transition to the base of Machu Picchu. This itinerary is designed to combine the valley’s history with the logistics needed to reach the citadel efficiently.
If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
English, Spanish
This tour travels through the valley surrounding Cusco, following the path of the Vilcanota River. This waterway remains the primary water source for local villages, where residents still maintain many of the traditions and agricultural practices passed down from the Incan era. You will see how the landscape and the river have shaped daily life in the region for centuries. The route leads to the town of Urubamba, a central point in the Sacred Valley, where you will stop for lunch. From there, you will board a tourist train for the final leg of the trip to Aguas Calientes. This town sits at the base of the mountains and serves as the primary entry point for visitors heading to the Machu Picchu archaeological site.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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