2 days
16
6+
Bus + train
Destinations: Cusco – Pisac Archaeological Site & Market – Urubamba – Ollantaytambo Living Inka Town – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu Sanctuary – Cusco.
Experience the absolute best of the Inka Empire with our beautifully paced 2-Day Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour. This itinerary is intelligently designed to save you unnecessary road travel by connecting the majestic archaeological wonders of the Sacred Valley directly with the evening train to Aguas Calientes.
On Day 1, you will uncover the breathtaking agricultural terraces of Pisac and explore the imposing fortress of Ollantaytambo, enjoying a premium buffet lunch in the heart of the valley. On Day 2, you will be among the first to step into the magical citadel of Machu Picchu, beating the heavy crowds from Cusco and enjoying a comprehensive private guided session.
The Cusco Land Expeditions Advantage: We manage every step of your logistics seamlessly. This tour includes comfortable tourist transport, scenic train connections, handpicked hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes, and pre-purchased **Machu Picchu Circuit 2** entrance tickets paired with top-tier native guides.
07:30 AM – Departure from Cusco and Taray Viewpoint
We pick you up from your hotel in Cusco to start our journey into the Sacred Valley of the Inkas. Our first brief stop is the famous Taray Viewpoint, where you can take stunning introductory photographs of the sprawling valley below and the snow-capped Andes.
09:00 AM – Exploring Pisac Archaeological Site and Market
We arrive at the ancient mountain citadel of Pisac. Your guide will show you the massive agricultural terraces, Inka cemeteries, and royal buildings. Afterward, we descend to the colorful Pisac Artisan Market, perfect for walking through local textile shops and purchasing unique souvenirs.
12:30 PM – Premium Buffet Lunch in Urubamba
We drive alongside the beautiful Urubamba River to a top-rated countryside restaurant. Here, you will indulge in a rich buffet lunch featuring authentic Peruvian gastronomy and fresh local ingredients.
02:30 PM – Discovering the Living Inka Town of Ollantaytambo
Next, we head to Ollantaytambo, a magnificent fortress featuring steep stone terraces and towering temples. This town is unique because its residents still live inside the original stone homes built by the Inkas centuries ago.
04:36 PM / 07:04 PM – Scenic Train to Aguas Calientes
After exploring the fortress, we walk directly to the adjacent Ollantaytambo station. You will board the comfortable tourist train for a 1.5-hour track along the canyon floor into the high jungle brow. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes town, our staff will escort you to your hotel. You have the evening free to explore the town or relax before your big day.
06:00 AM – Early Shuttle Bus Up to the Sanctuary
Enjoy a warm breakfast at your hotel before boarding the official eco-shuttle bus. The bus ascends the winding mountain highway for 25 minutes, taking you right to the main gates of the Machu Picchu Citadel.
07:00 AM – Private Guided Tour of Machu Picchu (Circuit 2)
Step through the checkpoints and experience the timeless architecture of the sanctuary during the early morning light. Your expert private guide will walk you through Circuit 2, the premier complete circuit. You will visit the iconic viewpoint for the classic postcard photograph, followed by a detailed tour of the Temple of the Sun, the Sacred Plaza, and the Intihuatana stone, diving deep into the history and archaeological mysteries over 3 hours.
11:30 AM – Return Down to Town and Lunch Options
After concluding your historical tour, you will take the shuttle bus back down to Aguas Calientes town. You have ample free time to enjoy a delicious lunch, explore the town's lively streets, or visit the local thermal hot springs.
02:30 PM / 06:30 PM – Train Journey and Transfer Back to Cusco
You will board the return train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo station. Upon arrival, a professional Cusco Land Expeditions driver will be waiting for you with private transport to bring you comfortably back, dropping you directly at your hotel doorstep in Cusco.