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Explore the heart of the Inca Empire with a combined tour of Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. These multi-day itineraries depart from Cusco and include guided visits to ancient ruins, traditional markets, and scenic train rides.
Visit Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and an animal sanctuary on a two-day journey from Cusco to Machu Picchu by train.
Likely to Sell Out Explore the Sacred Valley’s ruins and salt mines before watching the sunrise at Machu Picchu on this 2-day tour.
A private two-day journey through the Sacred Valley's ancient sites and salt mines, ending with a tour of Machu Picchu.
Likely to Sell Out Explore the Sacred Valley’s ruins and markets before visiting Machu Picchu and returning via the Vistadome train.
Likely to Sell Out Explore the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu on a private two-day journey through the heart of the Andes.
Experience the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu across two days, skipping the rush of a single-day excursion.
Free Cancellation Explore the Sacred Valley’s riverside villages and take the train from Urubamba to the base of Machu Picchu.
A 5-day journey from the ruins of the Sacred Valley to sunrise at Machu Picchu and the peaks of Rainbow Mountain.
Free Cancellation Explore the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu in a small group with early starts to beat the crowds at major sites.
Visit Pisac and Ollantaytambo before a guided sunrise tour of the Machu Picchu citadel.
Read what travelers share about their experience visiting Machu Picchu — from practical tips to personal highlights.
A combined tour of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu offers a deep dive into the heart of the ancient Inca Empire. Over two to five days, you will transition from the high-altitude plains of Cusco down through historic agricultural terraces, vibrant artisan markets, and dramatic mountain landscapes before finally reaching the iconic 15th-century citadel.
Explore traditional Andean towns like Pisac and Chinchero. You'll have time to browse vibrant handicraft markets, see local weaving techniques, and interact with alpacas and llamas.
Walk through a living Inca city and climb the massive stone terraces of its hillside fortress. This site showcases some of the most impressive ancient stonework in the region.
Travel along the Urubamba River on the Expedition or Vistadome train. The journey transitions from the rugged Andes into the lush, green cloud forests surrounding Aguas Calientes.
Most tours prioritize Circuit 2, which takes you to the Guardhouse Viewpoint. Here, you get the classic, postcard-perfect panoramic view of the entire stone citadel framed by Huayna Picchu.
Follow your guide through the urban and agricultural sectors of Machu Picchu. You'll see the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana astronomical stone, and sophisticated water drainage systems.
Planning a trip to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley requires careful attention to logistics, as entry rules and capacity limits are strictly enforced by the Peruvian government.
Machu Picchu has a strict daily capacity of 3,800 to 4,500 visitors. Tours prioritize Circuit 2 (the classic route), but these tickets sell out quickly. You should book your tour at least 2 to 4 months in advance, especially for the dry season (May-October).
Because train tickets and Machu Picchu entrance passes are non-transferable and non-refundable under government rules, almost all multi-day tours have a strict 'all sales are final' policy. Travel insurance is highly recommended.
You must provide your full name, passport number, date of birth, and nationality exactly as it appears on your passport when booking. You must also bring your original physical passport on the day of the tour to enter the ruins.
Trains to Aguas Calientes do not allow large checked bags. You must pack a small backpack or carry-on for your overnight stay. Your main luggage can be securely stored at your hotel in Cusco for free.
Most options are 2-day overnight tours, available in both small group (up to 10 people) and private formats. Extended 5-day tours are also available, adding visits to Rainbow Mountain and more Sacred Valley sites.
Standard 2-day tours generally include hotel pickups, train tickets, the Consettur bus up to the ruins, entrance tickets, a guided tour, breakfast, and a 3-star hotel stay in Aguas Calientes. Lunches and dinners are often excluded.
These tours require a moderate level of physical fitness. You will be walking on uneven stone steps and steep inclines at high altitudes. Acclimatizing in Cusco or the Sacred Valley for a few days beforehand is crucial.
| 2-Day Group Tour | 2-Day Private Tour | 5-Day Comprehensive Tour | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duration | 48 hours | 48 hours | 120 hours |
| Best for | Budget-conscious travelers wanting the essentials | Couples or families wanting a flexible, personalized pace | Travelers wanting to see all major Cusco region highlights |
| Group Size | Up to 10-15 people | Private (your group only) | Up to 10-17 people |
| Price from | $429 USD | $549 USD | $599 USD |
Machu Picchu Archaeological Site:
Manuel Chávez Ballón Site Museum:
Reaching Machu Picchu is a multi-step journey usually handled by your tour operator:
Dry Season (May to October): This is the most popular and best time to visit. The weather is dry on most days, offering clear, sunny skies ideal for photography and significantly reducing the risk of slipping on the ancient stone steps.
Wet Season (November to March): Characterized by heavy rainfall, which can cause travel delays, flooding, and landslides in the Andes. The wet stone steps become hazardous, and the ruins are frequently obscured by heavy mist. If visiting during this time, a high-quality rain poncho is essential.
Wheelchair Users: About 60% of the main citadel is wheelchair accessible via designated viewing platforms. However, standard trains and Consettur buses are not fully equipped for wheelchairs. Travelers should book specialized private tours (like Wheel the World) that provide all-terrain 'joelette' wheelchairs and trained porters.
Elderly Visitors: The site involves numerous steep, uneven stone steps. Walking sticks with metal tips are strictly prohibited, but rubber-tipped poles are allowed and highly recommended.
Families with Children: Strollers and baby carriages are strictly banned inside the site; infants must be carried in baby carriers.
Restrooms: There are no bathrooms inside the archaeological site. You must use the paid facilities located just outside the main entrance before scanning your ticket. Once you exit the site, re-entry is strictly prohibited.
Food and Drink: Large food containers and eating utensils are banned inside. You may bring light, sealed snacks and water in reusable bottles (disposable plastic bottles are prohibited).
Luggage Storage: Backpacks larger than 40x35x20 cm (16x14x8 inches) are not allowed inside and must be left in the storage lockers at the main entrance.
The Peruvian government strictly enforces park rules to protect the UNESCO site:
Yes, almost all multi-day tours include the entrance ticket to Machu Picchu. Tour operators prioritize securing Circuit 2 tickets, which offer the classic viewpoint, but will assign Circuit 1 or 3 if Circuit 2 is sold out.
Yes, you must bring your original, physical passport. It will be checked against your entrance ticket at the main gate, and digital photos or photocopies are not accepted.
No, the train companies (PeruRail and Inca Rail) have strict luggage limits. You are only allowed a small backpack or carry-on bag. You can leave your large luggage securely at your hotel in Cusco.
Cusco sits at 3,400 meters, which can cause altitude sickness (soroche). It is highly recommended to spend a few days acclimatizing in Cusco or the lower-elevation Sacred Valley before your tour. Drink plenty of water and avoid heavy meals.
Most tours include breakfast at your hotel on day two, and some include a buffet lunch in the Sacred Valley on day one. Dinners and the final day's lunch in Aguas Calientes are usually at your own expense.
Drones are strictly banned throughout the entire Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. Flying a drone will result in equipment confiscation and a fine of up to $10,000 USD.
Yes, the standard 2-day tours include the round-trip Consettur shuttle bus tickets ($24 value) that take you from Aguas Calientes up the mountain to the main entrance of the ruins.
No, tripods, monopods, selfie sticks, and camera stabilizers are strictly prohibited inside the archaeological site. You may only use handheld cameras or smartphones.
There are no restrooms inside the citadel. You must use the facilities located outside the main entrance before you go in. Because the site has a strict no re-entry policy, you cannot leave to use the bathroom and come back.
The official rules allow a tolerance period of 30 minutes in the low season and up to 45 minutes in the high season for delayed arrivals. Your tour guide will help manage the logistics if train delays occur.
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This two-day trip departs from Cusco and travels into the heart of the Sacred Valley. The first day begins at a local sanctuary to see alpacas and vicuñas, followed by a visit to the agricultural terraces of Pisac. You will then explore the stone ruins of the Ollantaytambo fortress before boarding a train for a scenic ride through the Urubamba Valley toward Aguas Calientes. The second day is focused entirely on Machu Picchu. You will take a guided tour of the citadel to learn about its architecture and history before returning to Cusco. These tours are conducted in small groups to allow for a better pace and more personal interaction with our local guides.
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
English, Spanish
This two-day trip starts with a tour of the Sacred Valley, departing directly from your hotel in Cusco. You will visit the textile town of Chinchero, the circular terraces of Moray, and the Maras Salt Mines before continuing to Urubamba and the fortress of Ollantaytambo. To keep the experience personal, groups are limited to ten people, allowing for a steady pace at each archaeological site. After an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, you will visit Machu Picchu early the next morning. The tour includes a professional guide fluent in English, Spanish, or Portuguese, as well as all transfers, accommodation, and breakfast. All travel is conducted in modern vehicles to ensure a comfortable return to Cusco after your visit to the citadel.
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Portuguese, English, Spanish
This private two-day itinerary begins with an exploration of the Sacred Valley. You will visit the textile market and archaeological site of Chinchero, the Moray agricultural terraces, and the Maras salt mines. The day concludes at the Ollantaytambo fortress, followed by an afternoon train journey to Aguas Calientes where you will spend the night. On the second day, a professional guide will lead you through the Machu Picchu citadel. After the tour, you have the option to visit the local hot springs before taking the afternoon train back to Cusco. This all-inclusive service is fully customized to provide a private experience throughout both days.
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 trip begins in the Sacred Valley, starting with a visit to the Awacancha farm to see alpacas and llamas. You will continue to the ancient tombs and ruins of Pisaq, followed by time to browse the traditional handicraft market. After exploring the stone streets of Ollantaytambo, you will take the train to Aguas Calientes to spend the night in a 3-star hotel. This overnight stay allows time to visit the local hot springs or explore the village at your own pace. On the second day, you will head to the Machu Picchu citadel early to watch the sunrise. A professional native guide will lead you through the terraces, palaces, and temples, with the option to visit the Sungate or the Inca Bridge. The journey concludes with a return trip to Cusco on the Vistadome panoramic train, which features large windows designed for viewing the mountain landscape along the Urubamba River.
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
English, Spanish
This two-day private tour covers the essential sites of the Cusco region, starting with a journey through the Sacred Valley. You will visit traditional Andean villages and Inca fortresses with a dedicated guide, allowing for a flexible pace that isn't possible on a standard group excursion. The second day focuses on a guided visit to Machu Picchu. Your guide will lead you through the citadel, explaining the history and architecture of the site while ensuring you see the most important landmarks. By choosing a private itinerary, you maximize your time in the mountains and receive personalized insights into the local culture.
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
English, Spanish
This two-day trip covers the highlights of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, moving at a slower pace than the typical rushed day tours from Cusco. By splitting the journey, you have more time to see the archaeological sites and small towns along the valley floor before heading toward the main citadel. On the second day, you will visit Machu Picchu for a guided tour of the ruins. This package handles the transport and logistics between sites, allowing you to focus on the history and scenery without managing multiple train or bus bookings yourself.
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
English, Spanish
This route follows the Vilcanota River through the Sacred Valley, passing through rural communities that still maintain traditional Incan customs and lifestyles. As the primary water source for the region, the river shaped the agricultural landscape that continues to support these local villages today. The tour includes a stop for lunch in the town of Urubamba before you board a train to Aguas Calientes. This town sits at the foot of the mountains and serves as the primary entry point for visiting the Machu Picchu citadel.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Norwegian, German, Russian, Portuguese, Japanese, English, Italian, French, Spanish
This five-day itinerary covers the primary historical and natural landmarks surrounding Cusco. You will begin by exploring the Sacred Valley, visiting the weaving town of Chinchero, the circular agricultural terraces of Moray, and the ancient salt pans of Maras. The journey continues through the valley with stops in Urubamba and the fortress of Ollantaytambo before heading toward the cloud forest. The trip includes a guided tour of Machu Picchu at sunrise to see the citadel in the early morning light. You will also hike to Rainbow Mountain to see its high-altitude mineral formations. Each excursion is led by a local professional guide to provide historical context. To keep the experience manageable, groups are kept small and include door-to-door transportation from your hotel for the duration of the trip.
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
English, Spanish
This tour covers the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu using private transportation and small group sizes to ensure a more personal experience. We depart early in the morning to reach the archaeological sites before the large tour buses arrive, allowing you to walk through the ruins in a quieter atmosphere. Our guides lead the way through each site, sharing the history of the region while stopping at specific viewpoints for clear views of the landscape. These stops at local miradors are timed to ensure you have the best vantage points for photography throughout the trip.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This two-day trip begins in the Sacred Valley with a stop at the Pisac artisan market, known for its local textiles and crafts. After a traditional lunch in Urubamba, you will head to Ollantaytambo to walk through the original Inca town and its hillside fortress. On the second day, you will reach Machu Picchu early to see the morning light hit the ruins. A local guide will take you through the main sectors of the archaeological site, sharing details about its history and purpose. This tour covers transportation, meals, and guided visits to all mentioned sites.
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.
English, Spanish