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:
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Pisac Ruins and Market – Explore ancient agricultural terraces and shop for handmade crafts at one of Peru’s most colorful markets.
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Ollantaytambo Fortress – Marvel at this impressive Inca stronghold, known for its massive stone terraces and strategic location.
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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.
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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:
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The Temple of the Sun
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The Intihuatana Stone (Sun Clock)
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The Sacred Plaza
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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.
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Altitude: 3,762 meters above sea level
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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.
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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
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Distance Traveled: 120 km (by bus and train)
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Highest Altitude: 3,762 m (Chinchero)
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Lowest Altitude: 2,040 m (Aguas Calientes)
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Route: Cusco – Chinchero – Moray – Maras – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
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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:
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The Temple of the Sun
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The Temple of the Moon
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The Temple of the Condor
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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
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Distance Traveled: 100 km (by bus and train)
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Highest Altitude: 2,430 m (Machu Picchu)
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Lowest Altitude: 2,040 m (Aguas Calientes)
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Route: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
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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.
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