This 2-day tour explores the Sacred Valley’s key sites: Pisac’s Inca ruins and market, Urubamba’s landscapes, and Ollantaytambo’s impressive fortress. Stay overnight in Aguas Calientes at the base of Machu Picchu. Day 2: guided visit to the iconic Inca citadel. Includes breakfast, accommodation, bus/train transport.
The transition from the colonial stone of Cusco to the high-altitude terraces of Pisac happens within the first hour of this expedition.
This two-day route is built for the traveler who wants to decompress in the Sacred Valley before standing at the gates of Machu Picchu. You won't just rush to the ruins.
You’ll spend the first day navigating the vertical agricultural terraces of Pisac and the massive rock fortifications of Ollantaytambo, where the face of the god Wiracocha is carved directly into the mountain. The overnight stay in the village of Aguas Calientes allows you to wake up at the base of the sanctuary, avoiding the long morning commute from Cusco. By the time you reach the Citadel on day two, you already have the historical context of the Inca Empire's heartland.
Permits for the "Classic Route" (Circuit 2) are the first to disappear each season, so book your Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Guided tour early to secure the most comprehensive access to the ruins.
This is a high-altitude journey that moves through various elevations. Expect crisp, dry air in the Sacred Valley and humid, tropical conditions at Machu Picchu. While the train and private car provide comfort, the archaeological sites require significant walking on uneven stone stairs and dirt paths. You should bring a small backpack for the overnight stay, as full-sized suitcases are not permitted on the trains. Most travelers leave their heavy luggage at their Cusco hotel.
Travellers who booked tours with us recommend visiting the Ollantaytambo ruins in the late afternoon. The light hits the carved face of Wiracocha on the opposite mountain perfectly, making the "god's features" much easier to see.
If you want to avoid the heaviest crowds at the Pisac Market, Our past travellers suggest walking through the archaeological site first and hitting the market during the midday lull.
Don't bring a large stroller. Our clients note that while some parts of the Sacred Valley are flat, Machu Picchu is almost entirely stairs. A sturdy baby carrier is a much better tool for parents.
If you arrive in Cusco early on day one, you can coordinate an airport pickup to start the tour immediately, but your flight must land by 6:40 AM to catch the group.
Standardizing your travel window ensures you see the transition from the valley to the cloud forest at its most vibrant.
Recommended Start Time: 7:30 AM. Starting at this hour ensures you reach the Ollantaytambo station in time for the scenic afternoon train, allowing you to see the river canyon before the sun goes down.
No. You must purchase the "Boleto Turistico" (approx. PEN 70) separately. Your guide will help you buy this at the first stop in Pisac.
No. The train companies have strict weight and size limits (usually 5kg/11lbs). Pack a small overnight bag and leave your main luggage at your Cusco hotel.
We prioritize Circuit 2 (The Classic Route), but these sell out 2-3 months in advance. If unavailable, we secure Circuit 1 or 3.
We use 3-star hotels that are clean, central, and include breakfast. They are chosen specifically for their proximity to the bus station.
This requires an additional ticket (approx. $65) and must be requested at the time of booking. It is subject to strict government availability.
Book it today with Machu Picchu Guided Tours or simply following this link.
