Cusco – Chinchero – Moray – Maras Salt Mines – Aguas Calientes

Cusco - The journey through the Sacred Valley towards Machu Picchu begins bright and early with hotel pick-up between 6:30 and 7:00 AM. Departing from Cusco, the drive takes us through the breathtaking Andes, passing picturesque valleys shaped by rivers.

The first stop is Chinchero, a town where ancient customs are still practiced. Here, a visit to a cultural center reveals how locals naturally dye alpaca and llama wool. This is a wonderful chance to witness Andean traditions that have been handed down through generations.

Salt Maras Peru - Continuing through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, the next destination is Moray, renowned for its impressive circular Inca terraces. These terraces served as an Inca agricultural laboratory, with each level creating a distinct microclimate. This ingenious engineering allowed the Incas to experiment with crops from different ecological zones, showcasing their advanced agricultural expertise.

Following this, the journey leads to the stunning Maras Salt Mines (Salineras de Maras), a must-see attraction in the Sacred Valley near Cusco. Thousands of traditional salt pools cascade down the mountainside, forming a breathtaking landscape. These salt pans have been in use since pre-Inca times and are still active today. Walking along the narrow paths, visitors can admire the geometric beauty of the terraces and learn about the ancient salt extraction process and enduring Andean traditions.

Urubamba - In the afternoon, a delightful buffet lunch is enjoyed in Urubamba, a town nestled in the heart of the Sacred Valley. Afterwards, the journey continues to the impressive Ollantaytambo fortress, a remarkable example of Inca military architecture. Exploring its well-preserved temples and terraces offers both historical insight and stunning views.

Aguas Calientes - The day concludes with a trip to the Ollantaytambo train station to board a train to Aguas Calientes. The scenic train ride provides views of lush valleys, flowing rivers, and the edge of the cloud forest. Arrival in Aguas Calientes is in the evening, where rest and preparation for the next day’s highlight, the visit to Machu Picchu, take place.

Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

Aguas Calientes - The most eagerly awaited day of the trip begins with a hearty breakfast in Aguas Calientes. Once ready, a walk to the bus station is followed by a 20-minute ride up the mountain to the entrance of the Machu Picchu Sanctuary, with breathtaking views along the way.

Santuario Historico de Machu Picchu - At the entrance to Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a professional guide leads a 2-hour tour of the citadel. During the visit, iconic landmarks of this ancient Inca archaeological site are explored, including the Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Moon, and the famous Temple of the Condor. Along the way, insights into the Inca civilization, their advanced engineering, impressive stone architecture, and spiritual connection with nature are shared.

After the guided tour, there is free time to explore at one’s own pace. Visitors can walk through the agricultural terraces, capture stunning photos of the ruins, and discover hidden corners of this legendary Inca citadel in the Andes.

For those seeking additional adventure, optional hikes to viewpoints such as the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) or the Inca Bridge are available. These scenic trails offer breathtaking panoramic views of Machu Picchu and the Andes.

Cusco - When ready, the bus is taken back down to Aguas Calientes. There, relaxation in the town’s natural hot springs (optional) or browsing local shops and cafés can be enjoyed.

In the afternoon, the train is boarded back to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, private transport awaits to take travelers to Cusco, where the return in the evening marks the completion of a magical journey through the heart of the Inca world.

• Hotel pick-up in Cusco
• Round-trip PeruRail Expedition tourist train
• Lunch
• One night hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes
• Breakfast at the hotel in Aguas Calientes
• English-speaking professional guide throughout the trip
• Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco to the Sacred Valley and Ollantaytambo train station
• Shared guided tour of Machu Picchu with a certified English-speaking guide
• Buffet lunch at Tunupa Restaurant
• Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu Sanctuary
• Shared transportation from Ollantaytambo train station to Cusco
• Round-trip bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu
• Entrance ticket to the Maras Salt Mines (Salineras de Maras)

• Meals not mentioned in the program (such as dinners and unspecified lunches)
• Optional entrance fee to Aguas Calientes hot springs.
• Drinks, snacks, and personal expenses during the tour
• Travel insurance of any kind
• Tips for guides, drivers, and staff(optional)

This 2-Day Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco is perfect for travelers eager to explore the highlights of the Cusco region in a short period. Experience the most significant Inca sites in the Sacred Valley, such as Chinchero, Moray, and the Maras Salt Mines, while taking in stunning Andean landscapes and immersing in local culture.

Following the Sacred Valley exploration, enjoy a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes for an overnight stay close to Machu Picchu.

On the second day, embark on a professional guided tour of the legendary Machu Picchu citadel and delve into the captivating history of the Inca civilization.

This thoughtfully crafted itinerary blends history, culture, and breathtaking scenery, providing an unforgettable journey through two of Peru’s most iconic destinations.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.