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

Overview

Day by day itinerary

1. 1Cusco | Andean Weavers and Alpacas | Salt mines | Moray and Ollantaytambo Inca sites | Train to Aguas Calientes⌄

   7:45 a.m. – After breakfast at your hotel in Cusco, our guide will pick you up to begin your journey to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Enjoy the stunning Andean landscapes, the warmth of the local people, and the incredible archaeological sites that make this tour an unforgettable experience.

   08:30 a.m. - After a 45-minute drive from Cusco, we will arrive at the traditional village of Chinchero, where we will visit a local family that keeps the ancient Andean weaving tradition alive. Their alpacas and guinea pigs will welcome you, and you’ll have the opportunity to feed them. You’ll also learn about fascinating traditional weaving techniques and how natural ingredients are used to dye the wool and create beautiful handmade textiles.

   9:30 a.m. – Admire the impressive circular terraces of Moray, the Inca agricultural laboratory, surrounded by the majestic Andes. Your guide will explain how the Incas experimented with different microclimates to cultivate their crops. It’s a fascinating site that perfectly combines ingenious engineering, history, and natural beauty.

   11:00 a.m. – Explore the thousands of salt ponds of Maras, still in use since Inca times. This site offers one of the most iconic views of the Sacred Valley. Your guide will be happy to capture this special moment for you before continuing the journey to enjoy a traditional lunch.

   12:00 p.m. – Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch at one of the finest restaurants in the Sacred Valley, featuring more than 50 Peruvian dishes including salads, soups, main courses, and traditional desserts. Vegetarian options are also available.

   2:10 p.m. – Explore the terraces and ruins of Ollantaytambo, an important military, religious, and agricultural center that once guarded the entrance to the trail leading to Machu Picchu. This site witnessed key events during the Spanish invasion. After the visit, we’ll head to the train station to board your selected service (regular, panoramic, or observatory train, depending on your reservation). During the 1 hour and 45-minute journey, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Andes and the Urubamba River on your way to Aguas Calientes.

   6:00 p.m. – Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town), our staff will be waiting at the train station exit to escort you to your hotel. After check-in, enjoy a free afternoon to relax or explore the town at your own pace.

   Meals: Lunch

   Overnight: 2, 3 or 4 star hotel according to your choice (single room included for solo traveler)

2. 2Guided visit to Machu Picchu and in the afternoon return to Cuzco⌄

   7:00 a.m. – After breakfast at the hotel, we will head with our guide to the bus station, which will take us to the main entrance of the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. Begin a guided tour through the main areas of the Inca citadel, exploring its plazas, temples, and finely carved stone stairways. Your guide will share fascinating historical and spiritual insights that make Machu Picchu one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. After the guided visit, you’ll have free time to explore the site on your own and take in the breathtaking scenery. Later, we’ll take the bus back to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have time for lunch (not included). 2:00 p.m. – At the scheduled time, we’ll board the train back to Ollantaytambo, enjoying once again the spectacular landscapes of the valley.

   Upon arrival at the Ollantaytambo train station, our private transport will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Cusco. Estimated arrival time: 6:00 p.m.

   Meals: Breakfast