Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu Tour 2 days

What is included

2-Day Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour Includes:

• Pickup from your hotel (Historic Center).
• Transportation.
• Voyager or Expedition train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.
• Voyager or Expedition train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
• Round-trip bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (Day 2).
• Entrance to Machu Picchu (Day 2).
• Return transfer from Ollantaytambo to Cusco (Day 2).
• Entrance to all sites visited in the Sacred Valley (Day 1).
• Buffet lunch on Day 1 during the Sacred Valley tour.
• Professional guide in English and Spanish on both days.

2-Day Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour Does Not Include:

• Meals not mentioned.
• Travel insurance (recommended).
• Tips.
• Huayna Picchu mountain ticket (optional).
• Machu Picchu mountain ticket (optional).

What to bring for the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu Tour

During the 2-day tour of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, you will travel from Cusco to the Sacred Valley by bus and then by train to Aguas Calientes. It's important to note that you can only bring a small carry-on bag with you on the train. Large luggage is not permitted.

You will also participate in short hikes during the day when visiting Inca sites and local markets. You'll need a small backpack to carry daily essentials such as rain gear, money, documents, water, and warm clothing. This backpack should be lightweight and comfortable.

Required Items:

• Valid Passport

• Extra money (recommended in Soles)

• Personal medications

• Water bottle or camelback (optional water purification tablets)

• SPF 70+ sunscreen or higher

• Insect repellent

• Personal toiletries

• Mountain boots/shoes (preferably waterproof)

• Lightweight shoes or sandals

• Hiking pants (*)

• Hiking socks

• Shorts

• Waterproof socks

• Long-sleeve shirts

• Thermal jacket

• Waterproof jacket

• Poncho

• Hat that protects face and neck

• Neck scarf or buff

• UV protection sunglasses

• Hiking poles

• Medium-sized hiking backpack (15 to 25 liters)

• Camera with charger

• External battery pack

• Snacks: energy bars, electrolytes, nuts, energy gels, etc.

• Swimwear

• Towel

During the Sacred Valley excursion, your carry-on luggage will remain in the van while you visit the Inca sites with your backpack.

During the Machu Picchu tour, you'll need to leave your carry-on luggage at the hotel after check-out and explore Machu Picchu only with a daypack.

Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu Tour Travel Information

Travel to Cusco:

Cusco Airport currently only operates domestic flights. All international passengers arriving by plane must disembark in Lima and go through customs. It's important to note that due to Cusco's high altitude, flights may experience delays or cancellations. Additionally, any weather changes can halt air traffic. If you prefer an overland alternative, buses are a viable option. Although the journey can be lengthy, especially from Lima. Buses from Lima can take approximately 20 hours to arrive.

Client Pickup:

Ausangate Adventure can pick you up from your hotel, provided it is located in Cusco's Historic Center. Pickup times are between 4:00 am and 5:00 am, but please note that waiting times may vary. Cusco's narrow and cobblestone streets can make hotel access challenging; in such cases, your guide will inform you of the designated meeting point.

Luggage:

If you have large suitcases, you can safely store them at your hotel, as most hotels offer luggage lockers. Large suitcases are not allowed on trains unless an additional fee is paid. For the tour, it is recommended to bring a small backpack to carry daily essentials, such as waterproof clothing, money, documents, water, and warm clothing. The backpack should be lightweight and comfortable.

Weather:

As soon as people book their trip to Peru, especially to Cusco, they start to worry about altitude sickness. At high altitudes, the air contains less oxygen than at sea level, forcing your body to work harder to get the oxygen it needs. After several days at altitude, your body adjusts to the lower amount of oxygen in the air.

Altitude sickness can make you feel like you have the flu or a hangover. You may experience headaches, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, difficulty sleeping, and problems breathing during exertion. If these symptoms worsen, contact our office and we will help you contact a doctor.

Most of the time, these symptoms will be mild. We always recommend that you acclimate to physical activity slowly, allowing your body to adjust. Drink plenty of fluids, such as water or coca tea. Coca tea has been used since ancient times to help prevent altitude sickness. Coca leaves contain alkaloids that help transport oxygen in the blood, helping your body mitigate the effects of altitude sickness. Avoid consuming large amounts of alcohol and coffee, as they increase urinary frequency and can dehydrate you. Avoid smoking, as it hinders oxygen absorption, and avoid sleeping pills because they can cause shallow breathing overnight, making it difficult for oxygen to be absorbed while you sleep.

Your doctor may prescribe medications such as acetazolamide and dexamethasone to help prevent altitude sickness. Start taking the medication two days before arriving at high altitudes and continue taking it while you are at altitude.

Weather:

The weather can be very unpredictable. Generally, the dry season in Cusco runs from April to October, but that doesn't mean it can't rain in June or be sunny in December. Just be prepared. No matter what month you do the hike, make sure to bring rain gear, including a waterproof jacket, waterproof pants, poncho, and waterproof gloves.

Also, prepare for all four seasons. Many hikes through the Andes traverse various microclimates, so you need to be ready for any type of weather. Layering is essential as it allows you to easily adapt to different temperatures. Nights will always be cold, so make sure to bring a warm winter jacket.

Places Visited

Taray Viewpoint:

The Taray Viewpoint, located on the route between Pisac and Cusco, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Andean mountains and the lush Urubamba Valley, making it a favorite spot for tourists and photographers alike. Visitors can marvel at the agricultural terraces along the valley slopes, showcasing the advanced engineering and agriculture skills of the Inca civilization.

Pisac Inca Site (The largest cemetery of the Incas):

Located about 33 kilometers (20 miles) northeast of Cusco, Pisac sits at approximately 3,300 meters (10,826 feet) above sea level. Recognized for its agricultural terraces carved into the mountain slopes, Pisac exemplifies the Inca's sophisticated methods of agriculture and irrigation, as well as their engineering prowess in preventing erosion and landslides in the mountainous terrain.

In addition to its terraces, Pisac features a variety of religious and ceremonial sites, including temples, baths, and altars. Among its most significant features is the Intihuatana, a carved stone believed to have served as both an astronomical observatory and calendar, similar to the famous one at Machu Picchu.

Pisac Market:

Located in Pisac, this vibrant and colorful market is famous for its traditional Andean crafts, textiles, clothing, ceramics, and jewelry. It is a magnet for both tourists and locals, offering a deep immersion into the cultural heritage of the area with unique handmade items available for purchase.

Operating daily, it is most lively on Sundays when it expands with local farmers selling fresh produce, making the experience even more authentic. Standouts include traditional Andean textiles of alpaca and llama wool, adorned with intricate patterns and vibrant colors, and handmade jewelry featuring silver and semi-precious stones.

Moray Terraces:

The Moray Terraces showcase an impressive ancient site with circular stepped depressions. It is believed that the Incas used them as an agricultural experimental station; these terraces create a variety of microclimates at different levels, allowing the testing of crops under diverse conditions. This innovative approach underscores the Inca's advanced agricultural knowledge and their understanding of biodiversity.

Maras Salt Mines:

The Maras Salt Mines, near Moray, present a unique and fascinating sight. These ancient salt ponds, dating back to before the Incas, are fed by highly saline spring water, filling thousands of small pools. Salt is harvested manually as the water evaporates, demonstrating a beautiful example of traditional salt extraction methods still in use today.

Ollantaytambo (Last living Inca Citadel):

Ollantaytambo, in the Southern Peruvian Sacred Valley, stands at 2,792 meters above sea level and about 60 kilometers from Cusco. Known as the "last living Inca citadel," it has been inhabited since the Inca Empire and retains much of its Inca architecture and urban design.

The archaeological site is divided into a religious and ceremonial center on a hillside, and a residential and agricultural area below. Built in the 15th century by Inca Emperor Pachacuti, the ceremonial center features impressive stone terraces leading up to the Temple of the Sun, elaborately constructed with large stone blocks. Additional structures include warehouses, baths, and a ceremonial platform.

Machu Picchu (Lost Inca City):

Machu Picchu, an ancient Inca citadel, was built in the mid-15th century under Inca Emperor Pachacuti. Located at 2,430 meters above sea level, it overlooks the Urubamba River valley. Its name, meaning "Old Mountain" in Quechua, spans over 200 buildings, including temples, houses, and agricultural terraces. The citadel boasts impressive engineering and construction, as well as dry stone walls.

Rediscovered in 1911 by Hiram Bingham, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major tourist attraction. Emblematic of the brilliance of the Inca civilization, Peru restricts the number of visitors and mandates specific exploration routes to protect it from environmental and structural damage.

Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu Tour FAQs

How long does the tour last?

The tour lasts for 2 days and 1 night. One day is dedicated to exploring the Sacred Valley, and the other day is reserved for visiting Machu Picchu.

What can I expect to see and do on the tour?

• In the Sacred Valley, you will visit archaeological sites such as Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero. You'll also enjoy breathtaking landscapes, learn about Inca culture, and have the opportunity to purchase local crafts.
• At Machu Picchu, you'll explore the Inca citadel and learn about its history and architecture. You'll also have time to enjoy panoramic views of the Sacred Valley.

What does the tour package include?

The package generally includes round-trip transportation from your hotel in Cusco, entrance fees to the tourist sites, bilingual guide, meals during the Sacred Valley visit.

How do you get to Machu Picchu from the Sacred Valley?

From Cusco, you travel by van to Ollantaytambo, visit this town, and then take a train to Aguas Calientes. The next day, you take a bus to Machu Picchu to explore the citadel.

Do i need to be in good physical shape to visit Machu Picchu?

While Machu Picchu may require some physical effort, it's not necessary to be in excellent shape. However, it's recommended to have a reasonable level of fitness due to the walks included in the tour.

What additional expenses should I expect?

It’s a good idea to bring extra money for souvenirs, drinks, and tips.

Do I need travel insurance?

It's highly recommended to purchase travel insurance that covers medical expenses, evacuation.

Price for the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu Tour

Tour in shared service.

This group service means that you will take the tour with other people, this standard service is done with a group between 12 to 18 people, we have confirmed departures for every day, so if it is only one or two people, don't worry, they can join to one of our groups.

From: $400USD.

Tour in private service.

This service is an exclusive way to make this trip where the service is much more personalized, prices vary according to the number of people in your group. Please consult info@ausangateadventure.com WhatsApp +51 914201334