Inca Valley and Machu Picchu 2-Day Tour: History, Culture, and Wonder

2 Days / 1 Night

Talk to a travel specialist or call: CONTACT US

Tour Overview

Dive into the heart of the Inca Empire with this comprehensive 2-day experience. Explore the stunning Sacred Valley, experiencing the living textiles of Chinchero, the agricultural terraces of Moray, the Maras Salt Mines, and the Ollantaytambo fortress. After a scenic train ride, spend the night in Aguas Calientes so you can be among the first to ascend and discover the majesty of Machu Picchu at dawn. A perfect blend of archaeology, Andean landscapes, and living culture.

2 Days / 1 Night

Places to visit: Cusco, Machu Picchu

Trip starts in: Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco

Physical Level:

Travel Style:

Group Size: Small groups

Departures: Daily Departures

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1

Treasures of the Sacred Valley, Maras, and Moray

We start with a pick-up from your hotel to head to Chinchero to visit its archaeological park and a traditional textile center. We continue to the spectacular Maras Salt Mines and the Moray agricultural laboratory. At midday, enjoy a buffet lunch. In the afternoon, we explore the Ollantaytambo fortress before taking the train to Aguas Calientes, where we will spend the night.

Day 2

Sunrise at the Machu Picchu Citadel

Very early in the morning, we take the eco-bus up to the entrance of Machu Picchu. Enjoy a professional guided tour of the sanctuary's most important enclosures. Afterward, return to Aguas Calientes by bus for free time before boarding the return train to Ollantaytambo, where our transport will take you back to Cusco.

Inclusions & Exclusions

Included

Direct hotel pick-up.
Tourist transport for the Sacred Valley tour.
Professional bilingual guide.
First aid kit.
1 Buffet lunch (Day 1).
Tourist Ticket (entrance to Chinchero, Moray, and Ollantaytambo).
Entrance to Maras Salt Mines.
Round-trip train tickets (Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes).
Round-trip bus tickets to Machu Picchu.
Official Machu Picchu entrance ticket.
1 Night hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes.
Full transfers on return to Cusco.

Not Included

Hotel nights in Cusco city.
Lunch and dinner in Machu Picchu/Aguas Calientes (Day 2).
Dinner on Day 1.
Tips (optional).
Other services not expressly described.

Packing List

To make your trip as comfortable as possible, we recommend bringing the following items:

Essentials & Documents

Local Currency

Passport or ID Card

Sunscreen

Clothing & Footwear

Breathable T-Shirts

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Hat / Cap

Waterproof Jacket

Equipment & Gear

Backpack

Power Bank

Water Bottle

Travel Tips & Recommendations

Essential Travel Info

Please read these recommendations carefully to prepare for your trip.

Light Luggage: Only a small backpack (max 5 kg) is allowed on the train. Your main luggage must stay in Cusco.
Documents: Your original passport or valid physical ID is mandatory at all times.
Mixed Weather: Dress in versatile layers. Day 1 is higher and colder; Day 2 is warmer and humid.
Hydration: Carry a reusable water bottle.

Optional Upgrades

Customize Your Experience

Enhance your trip with these optional upgrades available upon request.

Hotel upgrade to 3, 4, or 5 stars in Aguas Calientes.
Train upgrade to Vistadome or 360° panoramic class.
Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (subject to availability).

Got Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I pack for the night in Aguas Calientes?

Only a daypack with essentials: toiletries, a change of underwear, an extra t-shirt, pajamas, documents, and medications. Large suitcases are not allowed on the train.

What time will we return to Cusco on the second day?

It depends on train availability, but return trains usually leave between 2:00 PM and 6:00 PM, meaning you arrive in Cusco between 6:30 PM and 10:30 PM.

Does the hotel in Aguas Calientes include breakfast?

Most accommodations include a basic breakfast. Since tours start very early, hotels usually provide a 'box breakfast' if coordinated the night before.

What our travelers say

Trusted by Explorers

"Incredible experience on the Inca Trail. The guides were knowledgeable and the food was amazing!"
John D. USA
"365 Viajes made our trip to Machu Picchu seamless. Highly recommend their services."
Sarah M. Canada
"The Salkantay Trek was challenging but totally worth it. The team took great care of us."
David L. UK
"Professional, punctual, and very friendly. Best travel agency in Cusco!"
Elena R. Spain