2 Day Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley Tour with Go Xplore Peru

Peru is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking archaeological treasures, and none shine brighter than Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. A Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley Tour offers travelers the chance to step back in time, exploring ancient ruins, traditional Andean villages, and awe-inspiring mountain landscapes. This combination tour is perfect for those who want to experience both the cultural and natural wonders of the Inca civilization in one unforgettable trip.

Why Choose the Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley Tour

The Sacred Valley of the Incas, located between Cusco and Machu Picchu, is a lush, fertile region dotted with Incan ruins, vibrant local markets, and traditional Quechua communities. By combining the Sacred Valley with Machu Picchu in a single itinerary, travelers can fully appreciate the continuity of Incan culture—from the agricultural terraces of Pisac and Ollantaytambo to the majestic royal citadel of Machu Picchu.

This tour is ideal for those who want to acclimatize to the altitude before visiting Machu Picchu while enjoying scenic train rides, charming towns, and authentic cultural experiences.

Highlights of the Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley is filled with iconic sites and hidden treasures. Here are the top highlights you’ll experience on your Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley Tour:

• Pisac Ruins and Market – Explore ancient agricultural terraces and shop for handmade crafts at one of Peru’s most colorful markets.

• Ollantaytambo Fortress – Marvel at this impressive Inca stronghold, known for its massive stone terraces and strategic location.

• Moray and Maras – Discover the circular agricultural terraces of Moray and the stunning salt mines of Maras, where salt has been harvested since Incan times.

• Urubamba Valley – Enjoy the scenic beauty of this fertile valley surrounded by snow-capped peaks and tranquil rivers.

The Journey to Machu Picchu

After exploring the Sacred Valley, the adventure continues with a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Travelers can choose from various train options—such as the Expedition, Vistadome, or luxurious Hiram Bingham service—depending on their preferences and budget.

Upon arrival, most tours include an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, giving travelers the chance to rest before ascending to Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Experiencing Machu Picchu

Standing atop the mountain ridge surrounded by mist and greenery, Machu Picchu leaves every visitor in awe. The ancient citadel is divided into agricultural and urban sectors, with temples, plazas, and observatories that reveal the architectural brilliance of the Incas.

Some of the must-see areas include:

• The Temple of the Sun

• The Intihuatana Stone (Sun Clock)

• The Sacred Plaza

• Huayna Picchu Mountain (optional hike with panoramic views)

A professional guide will help you understand the deep symbolism, astronomical alignments, and daily life of the Incas who once lived here.

Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley

The best time to take a Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley Tour is during the dry season (May to October). Clear skies make for ideal hiking and photography conditions. However, the green season (November to April) offers fewer crowds and vibrant landscapes—perfect for travelers seeking a quieter experience.

Itinerary 

Day 01: Cusco – Chinchero – Moray – Maras Salt Mines – Aguas Calientes

Your Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley Tour begins early in the morning, with a hotel pick-up between 6:30 AM and 7:00 AM. As you leave Cusco, the scenic drive takes you through the Andes, past valleys carved by ancient rivers and dotted with small farming communities.

Chinchero: A Living Andean Village

The first stop is Chinchero, a traditional village known for its colorful culture and deep-rooted Incan heritage. Here, you’ll visit an interpretation center where locals demonstrate how they dye alpaca and llama wool using natural ingredients like flowers, roots, and minerals. You’ll see centuries-old weaving techniques still practiced today — a beautiful example of how Incan traditions live on in daily life.

• Altitude: 3,762 meters above sea level

• Highlight: Cultural demonstration of Andean textile art

Moray: The Incan Agricultural Laboratory

Next, the journey continues to Moray, one of the Sacred Valley’s most fascinating archaeological sites. The circular terraces of Moray were used by the Incas as an agricultural laboratory. Each level has its own microclimate, allowing the Incas to experiment with growing crops from different altitudes.

This stop offers incredible photo opportunities and deep insight into the Incas’ advanced understanding of agriculture and science.

Maras Salt Mines: The White Wonder of the Andes

After Moray, you’ll visit the Maras Salt Mines, also known as Salineras de Maras. These ancient salt terraces have been in use since pre-Incan times and continue to operate today. Thousands of small salt pools create a mesmerizing geometric landscape that gleams under the sun.

You’ll walk along narrow paths, admire the beauty of the salt pans, and learn how the locals still produce and trade salt using ancient techniques.

• Highlight: Walk through 3,000+ salt ponds, still harvested by hand

Urubamba and Ollantaytambo: Gateway to Machu Picchu

After exploring Maras, the tour heads to Urubamba Province, where you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch at Tunupa Restaurant, one of the top dining experiences in the Sacred Valley. Surrounded by stunning views and local flavors, this is the perfect moment to relax and recharge.

Later, the journey continues to Ollantaytambo, an impressive Inca fortress and ceremonial site. You’ll explore its massive terraces, ancient temples, and narrow cobblestone streets — one of the few remaining Inca towns still inhabited today.

In the evening, you’ll board the PeruRail Expedition train to Aguas Calientes, the base town of Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and rest for the next day’s highlight — visiting the majestic Machu Picchu.

Day 1 Statistics

• Distance Traveled: 120 km (by bus and train)

• Highest Altitude: 3,762 m (Chinchero)

• Lowest Altitude: 2,040 m (Aguas Calientes)

• Route: Cusco – Chinchero – Moray – Maras – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

Day 02: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

Wake up early and enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Aguas Calientes. This is the most exciting day of your Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley Tour.

You’ll walk to the bus station and take a 20-minute ride up to the Machu Picchu Sanctuary, surrounded by lush mountains and clouds slowly unveiling the Lost City of the Incas.

Exploring Machu Picchu

At the entrance, your professional guide will meet you for a two-hour guided tour through the ancient citadel. During the visit, you’ll explore the most iconic structures of Machu Picchu, including:

• The Temple of the Sun

• The Temple of the Moon

• The Temple of the Condor

• The Sacred Plaza and Royal Tombs

As you wander through terraces and temples, you’ll learn about the Incas’ advanced engineering, spirituality, and daily life. The panoramic views and spiritual atmosphere make this one of the most memorable travel experiences in the world.

After the guided tour, you’ll have free time to explore on your own — hike to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) or the Inca Bridge, take breathtaking photos, or simply absorb the mystical energy of the site.

Return to Cusco

Later, descend by bus to Aguas Calientes. You can relax at the hot springs (optional) or enjoy a snack in the local cafes before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo.
From there, private transport will take you back to Cusco, where your incredible journey concludes in the evening.

Day 2 Statistics

• Distance Traveled: 100 km (by bus and train)

• Highest Altitude: 2,430 m (Machu Picchu)

• Lowest Altitude: 2,040 m (Aguas Calientes)

• Route: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

• Difficulty Level: Moderate

What’s Included in the Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley Tour

✅ Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco
✅ Shared guided tour through the Sacred Valley of the Incas
✅ Buffet lunch at Tunupa Restaurant
✅ Entrance ticket to Maras Salt Mines
✅ Round-trip PeruRail Expedition Train (Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo)
✅ One night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes
✅ Breakfast at the hotel
✅ Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu Sanctuary
✅ Shared professional tour guide at Machu Picchu
✅ Round-trip bus Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu
✅ Transportation from Ollantaytambo train station to Cusco

Not Included

❌ Meals not mentioned in the itinerary (dinners, extra lunches)
❌ Hot springs entrance fee in Aguas Calientes (optional)
❌ Drinks, snacks, and personal expenses
❌ Travel insurance
❌ Tips for guides, drivers, and staff

Why Choose Go Xplore Peru

At Go Xplore Peru, we are passionate about crafting authentic and unforgettable travel experiences. With over seven years of expertise, our Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley Tour is designed for travelers who want to explore the heart of the Inca Empire with comfort, cultural depth, and expert guidance.

Our local guides share fascinating stories and ensure every traveler connects deeply with Peru’s culture, history, and landscapes.

Conclusion

The Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley Tour is more than a sightseeing trip — it’s a journey through time. From the living culture of Chinchero to the genius of Moray and the sacred atmosphere of Machu Picchu, this two-day adventure reveals the very essence of Inca civilization.

Join Go Xplore Peru and discover why this tour is one of the most enriching ways to experience the magic of Peru.

Inca Trail Tour vs. Salkantay Trek – Which is Better for You?

Few adventures compare to trekking through the breathtaking Andes Mountains and arriving at the mystical Machu Picchu. Two of the most popular ways to reach this ancient wonder are the Inca Trail Tour and the Salkantay Trek. Both routes offer incredible scenery, rich history, and unique experiences, but they cater to different types of travelers.

Whether you crave cultural immersion, solitude, or physical challenge, this detailed comparison will help you decide which trek is perfect for your journey to Machu Picchu.

Understanding the Routes

The Inca Trail Tour – A Journey Through Ancient History

The Inca Trail Tour is Peru’s most famous hiking route, following the footsteps of the ancient Incas who once traveled this sacred path to reach Machu Picchu. This 4-day trail winds through stunning landscapes, lush cloud forests, and mysterious Incan ruins that can only be accessed by foot.

Highlights include:

• Walking along original Inca stone paths

• Visiting archaeological sites like Runkurakay, Wiñay Wayna, and Phuyupatamarca

• Arriving at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for your first magical view of Machu Picchu at sunrise

Because it’s a protected UNESCO World Heritage route, the Inca Trail has a strict permit system, allowing only a limited number of trekkers each day. This ensures a more controlled experience but also means you must book several months in advance.

The Salkantay Trek – Nature’s Raw Beauty

The Salkantay Trek is an increasingly popular alternative to the Inca Trail. Named after Mount Salkantay (6,271m), one of the highest peaks in the region, this trek offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, turquoise lakes, and lush tropical valleys.

Unlike the Inca Trail, the Salkantay route doesn’t require a government permit, offering more flexibility and fewer crowds. It’s considered more physically demanding, but it rewards hikers with dramatic scenery and a sense of wilderness adventure.

Highlights include:

• Trekking beside the majestic Salkantay Mountain

• Crossing diverse ecosystems from alpine passes to jungle trails

• Reaching the beautiful Humantay Lake and soaking in natural hot springs in Santa Teresa

Comparing the Inca Trail Tour and Salkantay Trek

Let’s break down the key differences to help you choose the trek that fits your preferences, fitness level, and travel goals.

1. Scenery and Landscape

Both routes showcase Peru’s incredible natural diversity, but they offer different kinds of beauty.

• Inca Trail Tour: You’ll experience a perfect mix of nature and history. Ancient ruins, subtropical forests, and panoramic mountain views blend together, offering a glimpse into the Incan civilization’s engineering marvels.

• Salkantay Trek: Expect dramatic landscapes — towering snow peaks, glacial lakes, waterfalls, and coffee plantations. The scenery changes almost daily, giving you a more wild and remote feel.

If your heart seeks untouched nature and adventure, the Salkantay Trek might win. But if you dream of following in the footsteps of ancient emperors, the Inca Trail delivers unmatched historical value.

2. Difficulty Level

The Inca Trail Tour is moderately challenging. It involves several steep ascents and descents, with the highest point at “Dead Woman’s Pass” (4,215m). Altitude can affect some hikers, but the well-maintained paths make it manageable for most people with average fitness.

The Salkantay Trek is considered more demanding due to its higher elevation (up to 4,650m) and longer daily distances. It’s ideal for adventurous hikers who want a physical challenge and are prepared for more rugged conditions.

Tip: Both treks require acclimatization in Cusco for at least two days before starting to avoid altitude sickness.

3. Cultural and Historical Experience

• Inca Trail Tour: You’ll pass multiple Inca ruins that can only be reached on foot. Each site tells a story about the empire’s architectural brilliance, agricultural ingenuity, and spiritual beliefs. It’s like walking through a living museum surrounded by nature.

• Salkantay Trek: While it lacks the same number of Incan ruins, it offers more interaction with local Andean communities. You can learn about traditional farming, Andean beliefs, and even participate in coca leaf ceremonies.

If your priority is connecting with Incan history, choose the Inca Trail. If you prefer an authentic cultural exchange with local villagers, the Salkantay Trek shines.

4. Permits and Availability

One of the biggest differences between these two treks lies in permit requirements.

• Inca Trail Tour: Permits are mandatory and sell out months in advance, especially for the high season (May–September). Booking early through a licensed tour operator is essential.

• Salkantay Trek: No permits are needed, and you can often book just days before departure, making it perfect for spontaneous travelers or last-minute planners.

If you value flexibility, the Salkantay Trek offers more freedom. But for exclusivity and structure, the Inca Trail is the way to go.

5. Accommodation and Comfort

• Inca Trail Tour: Most operators provide camping gear, tents, and meals prepared by experienced cooks. Campsites are designated and regulated by the Peruvian government.

• Salkantay Trek: Accommodation varies. Many tours now offer “glamping” domes, cozy lodges, or traditional camping options. You can even find treks with luxury mountain lodges that offer hot showers and comfortable beds.

So, if you enjoy a bit of comfort after a long hike, the Salkantay Trek may surprise you with its unique lodges and facilities.

6. Crowds and Popularity

The Inca Trail Tour is world-famous, which means it attracts many trekkers each day (within the permit limits). While you’ll never feel overcrowded, you’ll certainly encounter other groups on the trail.

The Salkantay Trek, on the other hand, offers a more peaceful experience. The trails are quieter, allowing you to connect with nature in solitude. For travelers who prefer serenity over social atmosphere, Salkantay is the better option.

7. Cost Comparison

Generally, the Inca Trail Tour is more expensive because of its limited permits, government regulations, and logistical requirements. Expect to pay between $600–$900 depending on the operator and inclusions.

The Salkantay Trek tends to be more affordable, ranging from $350–$700, depending on whether you choose camping or luxury lodge options.

If budget is a deciding factor, Salkantay offers great value for money without compromising on experience.

Which Trek Should You Choose?

Your choice depends on what you value most in your travel experience:

Preference	Best Option
History & Ancient Ruins	Inca Trail Tour
Natural Scenery & Adventure	Salkantay Trek
Cultural Interaction	Salkantay Trek
Exclusivity & Prestige	Inca Trail Tour
Budget & Flexibility	Salkantay Trek
Comfort Options	Salkantay Trek (with lodge stays)

If you’ve always dreamed of arriving at Machu Picchu through the iconic Sun Gate, surrounded by history, then the Inca Trail Tour is your dream trek. But if you crave a raw, nature-filled adventure with stunning landscapes and fewer crowds, the Salkantay Trek is your perfect match.

Final Thoughts

Both treks are life-changing journeys that will reward you with unforgettable memories. Whether you choose the historic Inca Trail or the scenic Salkantay route, you’ll experience the magic of the Andes and the wonder of Machu Picchu in a deeply personal way.

When planning your trip, always book with a trusted and responsible local operator to ensure safety, comfort, and authentic experiences.

For expertly guided treks, cultural insights, and sustainable travel options, consider exploring with Go Xplore Peru — where every step takes you closer to the heart of the Andes.