2-Day Tour From Cusco: Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu by Train

Setting out on a captivating 2-day journey from Cusco to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu by train promises an intimate experience for a small group of up to 10 travelers. This all-inclusive tour showcases Peru’s stunning landscapes and rich history, with guided visits to breathtaking sites like Chinchero, Maras, and Moray. Comfortable accommodations, delicious meals, and personalized attention from knowledgeable guides make this adventure truly unforgettable. But what else can you expect on this captivating tour? Let’s dive in and find out.

Key Points

• This 2-day tour takes travelers through the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, with a focus on small-group experiences for personalized attention.
• The tour includes guided visits to Chinchero, Maras, Moray, and Ollantaytambo on the first day, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu on the second day.
• The tour is all-inclusive, with accommodations, meals, transportation, and entrance fees covered, with optional upgrades available.
• Advance booking is recommended due to limited entry slots and hourly shifts for Machu Picchu.
• Travelers have praised the knowledgeable and organized guides, as well as the overall efficiency and organization of the tour.

Tour Overview

This 2-day tour from Cusco takes travelers on an immersive journey through the sacred landscapes of Peru’s iconic Sacred Valley and the mystical Machu Picchu.

Rated 99% recommended by travelers, the tour offers an all-inclusive experience with maximum group sizes of 10 (4 in low season). Priced from $459 per person, the tour includes accommodations, meals, transportation, and expert-led visits to top attractions like Chinchero, Maras, Moray, and Ollantaytambo.

While not wheelchair accessible, private tours are available. With a focus on small-group experiences, this tour provides personalized attention and an in-depth exploration of Peru’s cultural heritage.

Itinerary and Inclusions

The 2-day tour starts with a guided visit to the Sacred Valley.

Travelers will explore Chinchero’s weaving center, the salt pans of Maras, the agricultural terraces of Moray, and the Inca ruins of Ollantaytambo.

A buffet lunch at a colonial-style restaurant is included.

On day 2, an expert local guide leads a tour of Machu Picchu, providing insights into the Inca citadel.

The tour package includes 1 night’s hotel stay, transportation, entrance fees, train tickets, and a bottle of water.

This 2-day tour package includes 1 night’s hotel stay, transportation, entrance fees, train tickets, and a bottle of water.

Guests can upgrade their hotel or add optional activities like visiting Wayna Picchu mountain.

The small group size ensures a personalized experience.

Important Information

Booking the tour requires providing full name, passport number, date of birth, and nationality for entrance ticket purposes.

Space at Machu Picchu is limited, with hourly entry shifts from 6 AM to 3 PM, so booking in advance is recommended for the Circuit 2 tour.

Travelers should pack light, bringing a small backpack for the overnight stay and essentials like clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, and rain gear for the rainy season.

Luggage storage is available at the hotels and the tour operator’s office.

The tour emphasizes safety, advising guests to keep personal belongings secure during the trip.

Guest Experiences

Guests who’ve experienced this 2-day tour to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu have largely praised the knowledgeable and organized guides.

Many enjoyed the small group size and personalized attention. However, some guests expressed concerns about the hotel quality and time spent in Aguas Calientes, suggesting better management of free time.

Standout guides Martin and Judy received high praise for their informative and engaging tours.

Recommendations and Tips

When shopping, travelers are advised to save their purchases for Cusco’s San Pedro market, where they can find better deals. Local businesses should be supported during stops along the tour.

The overall experience is well-organized, allowing guests to make the most of their short stay. However, travelers are reminded to keep their personal belongings secure throughout the trip.

With knowledgeable guides, a small group size, and efficient logistics, this 2-day tour provides an optimal way to explore the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu for those seeking a concise yet comprehensive Cusco adventure.

Booking Requirements

Before travelers can embark on this 2-day tour, they’ll need to provide their full name, passport number, date of birth, and nationality. This information is required for the entrance tickets to Machu Picchu.

Travelers must provide their full name, passport number, date of birth, and nationality for Machu Picchu entrance tickets.

The tour operator needs these details in advance to secure the necessary permits and passes.

Here are 3 additional booking requirements:

1. Guests must book the tour well in advance, as Machu Picchu has limited entry with hourly shift schedules.

2. Reservations for the circuit 2 ticket to Machu Picchu should be made early to guarantee availability.

3. Private tours are available for an additional cost for travelers with accessibility needs.

Machu Picchu Capacity

Machu Picchu has a limited entry capacity, with hourly shifts from 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

Due to this restriction, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially for the popular Circuit 2 route. This ensures you secure a spot to explore the ancient Inca citadel during your visit.

The limited capacity helps manage the flow of visitors, preserving the site’s tranquility and cultural significance.

Preparation and Storage

Travelers are advised to pack a small backpack for their overnight stay at Machu Picchu. This compact bag should include the essentials:

1. Comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear to navigate the ancient citadel.

2. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent for protection from the elements.

3. Rain gear, as the weather can be unpredictable, especially during the wet season from December to March.

Facilities are available at the hotels for storing larger luggage, and the tour operator also offers storage space at their office.

Hotels and tour operators provide ample storage space for larger luggage, allowing travelers to pack light for Machu Picchu.

This allows guests to travel light and fully enjoy the Machu Picchu experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Stop in the Sacred Valley?

The itinerary includes visits to Chinchero, Maras, Moray, and Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley. While specific times aren’t provided, the tour offers a guided visit to these sites with a buffet lunch at a colonial-style restaurant.

Is It Possible to Extend the Machu Picchu Tour Time?

Absolutely, guests can extend their time at Machu Picchu by upgrading to the entrance ticket for Circuit 2 plus the High Platform. This allows more exploration and flexibility during the guided tour.

Can Dietary Requirements Be Accommodated During the Tour?

Yes, the tour operator can accommodate dietary requirements with advance notice. They’ll work to provide suitable meals during the included lunch stops. Just let them know your needs when booking the tour.

What Is the Cancelation and Refund Policy for This Tour?

The tour has a flexible cancellation policy – guests can receive a full refund up to 30 days before the start date. Within 30 days, partial refunds are available based on the number of days left. Cancellations incur a small service fee.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Limitations for This Tour?

The tour has no specific age restrictions, though it may not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility challenges. Private tours can be arranged to accommodate special needs. Participants must be able to walk and climb stairs.

The Sum Up

This captivating 2-day tour from Cusco provides an intimate experience to explore the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu by train. Guests will enjoy guided visits to stunning sites, comfortable accommodations, delicious meals, and personalized attention from knowledgeable guides. It’s an unforgettable adventure through Peru’s breathtaking landscapes and rich history, perfect for those seeking a comprehensive yet personalized journey.