2 Day Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco

Day 1: Cusco – Chinchero – Moray – Maras Salt Mines – Aguas Calientes

1. Cusco
   2h
   Our adventure through the Sacred Valley and toward Machu Picchu begins early in the morning with hotel pick-up between 6:30 and 7:00 AM. As we leave Cusco, we drive through the majestic Andes, passing scenic valleys carved by rivers.
   
   Our first stop is the town of Chinchero, a place where ancient traditions are still alive. Here, we visit a cultural center where we learn how locals dye alpaca and llama wool using natural methods. It’s a great opportunity to observe Andean customs that have been preserved through generations.
2. Salt Maras Peru
   2h · Admission ticket included
   We continue our journey through the Sacred Valley of the Incas to visit Moray, famous for its impressive circular Inca terraces. These unique agricultural terraces functioned as an Inca agricultural laboratory, where each level created a different microclimate. This remarkable engineering allowed the Incas to experiment with crops from various ecological zones, demonstrating the advanced agricultural knowledge of the Inca civilization.
   
   Next, we visit the spectacular Maras Salt Mines (Salineras de Maras), one of the most iconic attractions in the Sacred Valley near Cusco. Thousands of traditional salt pools cascade down the mountainside, creating a stunning landscape. These salt pans have been used since pre-Inca times and remain active today. As we walk along the narrow paths, we admire the geometric beauty of the terraces and learn about the ancient salt extraction process and Andean traditions that continue to this day.
3. Urubamba
   2h
   In the afternoon, we enjoy a delicious buffet lunch in Urubamba, a town nestled in the heart of the Sacred Valley. Afterwards, we drive to the impressive Ollantaytambo fortress, a remarkable example of Inca military architecture. We explore its well-preserved temples and terraces, soaking in both the history and the views.
4. Aguas Calientes
   4h
   To end the day, we go to the Ollantaytambo train station and board a train to Aguas Calientes. The train ride is scenic, offering views of lush valleys, flowing rivers, and the edge of the cloud forest. We arrive in Aguas Calientes in the evening, where we rest and prepare for the next day's highlight, our visit to Machu Picchu.

Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

1. Aguas Calientes
   1h
   We begin the most anticipated day of the trip with a hearty breakfast in Aguas Calientes. Once ready, we walk to the bus station and take a 20-minute ride up the mountain to the entrance of the Machu Picchu Sanctuary, enjoying breathtaking views along the way.
2. Machupicchu
   3h · Admission ticket included
   At the entrance to Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, we meet our professional guide for a 2-hour guided tour of the citadel. During the visit, we explore iconic landmarks of this ancient Inca archaeological site, including the Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Moon, and the famous Temple of the Condor. Along the way, we learn about the Inca civilization, their advanced engineering, impressive stone architecture, and spiritual connection with nature.
   
   After the guided tour, you will have free time to explore at your own pace. Walk through the agricultural terraces, take stunning photos of the ruins, and discover hidden corners of this legendary Inca citadel in the Andes.
   
   For travelers seeking additional adventure, optional hikes to viewpoints such as the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) or the Inca Bridge are available. These scenic trails offer breathtaking panoramic views of Machu Picchu and the Andes.
3. Cusco
   5h
   When ready, we take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes. There, we may choose to relax in the town’s natural hot springs (optional) or spend time browsing local shops and cafés.
   
   In the afternoon, we board the train back to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, private transport will be waiting to take us to Cusco, where we’ll return in the evening, completing a magical journey through the heart of the Inca world.

Pickup details

Our guide will confirm your exact pickup time and location the day before the tour. Please be ready at the hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup to avoid any delays. If you are staying outside the main city area, pickup may occur slightly earlier.

• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels