Inside Sacred Valley Experience 2D & Train to Machu Picchu

Begin your adventure with a comfortable hotel pickup in Cusco between 7:00 and 7:15 AM. Travel along a scenic road through the Andes toward the heart of the Sacred Valley. Your first stop will be at a traditional Andean artisan center, where you'll witness live demonstrations of local weaving and handmade crafts, preserving centuries-old Inca and Quechua heritage.

The journey continues across a high mountain pass before descending to El Mirador, a stunning panoramic viewpoint that overlooks the fertile Sacred Valley and its ancient agricultural terraces.

Upon arrival in Pisaq, enjoy a guided tour of its magnificent Inca site, featuring ceremonial areas, irrigation channels, and terraced farming platforms built into the mountain. Afterward, stroll through the lively Pisaq Market, where local artisans offer handwoven textiles, ceramic crafts, silver jewelry, and other cultural treasures.

Next, head to Urubamba for a buffet lunch prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and traditional Peruvian flavors.

In the afternoon, visit the famous Salt Mines of Maras, where thousands of salt pools cascade down the mountainside - a spectacular visual and cultural experience. Then continue to Moray, a remarkable Inca agricultural laboratory made up of circular terraces that descend into the earth like an amphitheater.

After this enriching day, our team will drop you off at your hotel in Ollantaytambo, a charming Inca town where you'll spend the night. Accommodation is based on double occupancy; a private single room is available for an additional US$60.

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel. Around 9:00 AM, your expert guide will meet you to begin your exploration of Ollantaytambo, one of the last remaining Inca towns still inhabited since pre-Hispanic times.

You'll ascend its majestic terraces and explore the ceremonial center, temples, water channels, and sacred viewpoints - all brought to life through powerful storytelling that reveals the site's strategic and spiritual role in Andean history.

Later, leave the well-trodden path behind and step into an Inside Peru Adventures signature immersive experience - a carefully curated encounter that reveals the living essence of this sacred valley.

Throughout the midday, you'll engage with symbolic spaces, ancestral practices, and meaningful rituals preserved across generations. This is not simply a stop for lunch - it is an unfolding journey into the rhythms, flavors, and values of a community deeply rooted in Andean tradition.

Expect a multisensory experience that invites you to feel, taste, and connect with the spirit of the Andes in ways few travelers ever access. Every detail is designed to bring you closer to the land and its people - from the way ingredients are prepared to the significance of every shared gesture.

After these enriching experiences, enjoy dinner either before or after your train ride to Aguas Calientes, depending on your assigned departure time. The scenic journey follows the Urubamba River through lush valleys and dramatic mountain landscapes.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Town, you'll be escorted to your 3-star hotel for a comfortable overnight stay. Accommodation is based on double occupancy; a private single room is available for an additional US$60.

Today marks the highlight of your journey - your visit to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

After an early wake-up, enjoy breakfast at your hotel or request a packed breakfast. Leave your luggage in storage and bring only a small daypack with essentials such as passport, sun protection, water, and camera.

Walk to the Aguas Calientes bus station. Boarding operates on a first-come, first-served basis. The 25-minute bus ride ascends a winding mountain road to Machu Picchu.

Upon arrival, use the restroom outside the entrance before entering. Your guided visit follows Circuit 2 or the best available circuit, including the classic panoramic viewpoint near the Watchtower. Explore the main temples, royal quarters, agricultural terraces, sacred fountains, and more during your 2.5-3 hour tour.

If you've pre-booked Huayna Picchu, the hike takes approximately 45 minutes up, 30 minutes at the top, and 45 minutes down. Entry is limited and requires advance reservation.

After the visit, descend by bus back to Aguas Calientes around 12:00 PM. Lunch is at your own expense before boarding the Expedition train back to Ollantaytambo, where our private vehicle will meet you for your return to Cusco. Expect to arrive at your hotel around 8:00 PM.

This unforgettable day at Machu Picchu will remain one of your most cherished memories of Peru.

Cusco International Airport currently handles domestic flights. International travelers usually arrive first in Lima, clear customs and immigration, and then check in again for the domestic flight to Cusco.

• By Plane: The fastest way to reach Cusco is by air, with flights from Lima operated by LATAM, Avianca, SKY, and other domestic airlines.
• Arrival Recommendation: Arrive in Cusco at least one full day before your tour to rest and acclimatize.
• Weather Delays: Flight delays can happen due to weather and high-altitude landing conditions.
• By Bus: Lima to Cusco by bus takes approximately 20-22 hours, but it can be comfortable with VIP seats.

Because this is an overnight journey to Machu Picchu by train, luggage restrictions apply due to limited cargo capacity on the Expedition and Vistadome trains. Each traveler should bring only one carry-on bag or small duffel.

• Bring only the essentials for 2 nights.
• Large luggage can be stored securely in Cusco and returned when you arrive back.
• Keep passport, money, electronics, medication, and valuables with you.
• Label your luggage clearly with your name, especially when traveling in a group.

The Sacred Valley of the Incas offers experiences at elevations ranging from approximately 2,800 to 3,500 m.a.s.l., while Machu Picchu sits lower at 2,430 m. This itinerary is a comfortable way to adjust gradually while enjoying culture, history, and landscapes.

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
• Avoid heavy meals before high-altitude site visits.
• Get a good night's rest before the tour.
• Walk slowly and listen to your body.
• Tell your guide if you feel headache, dizziness, nausea, or unusual fatigue.

This tour is culturally immersive and physically accessible. You'll explore archaeological sites such as Pisaq, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Machu Picchu, with moderate walking on stone paths, terraces, and gentle slopes.

• Activity Level: Relaxing to moderate.
• No Trekking Required: This is not a trekking tour.
• Walking Conditions: Expect stairs, uneven stone paths, terraces, cobblestone streets, and site circuits.
• Best For: Curious travelers, families, first-time visitors, and travelers who want a softer introduction to altitude.
• Recommended Gear: Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, light rain gear, and a small daypack.

Weather in the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu region changes by altitude and season. Days may be sunny and warm, while mornings and evenings can be cool, especially in Ollantaytambo and higher archaeological sites.

• Dry Season, April to October: Clear skies, abundant sunshine, and cooler mornings and evenings.
• Rainy Season, December to February: More frequent showers, cloudy skies, and lush landscapes.
• Shoulder Months, March and November: Mixed conditions with sun and occasional rain.
• Dress in Layers: Bring a breathable base layer, fleece or sweater, and packable windbreaker or waterproof jacket.
• Sun Protection: High-SPF sunscreen, UV sunglasses, and a wide-brim hat are strongly recommended.
• Machu Picchu Entry: Large backpacks are not allowed. Bring a small daypack and your original passport.

• Trained Guides: Our guides are trained in first aid, emergency response, altitude awareness, and outdoor risk management.
• First-Aid Kit: We carry a first-aid kit for common travel issues such as minor scrapes, blisters, motion sickness, insect bites, or altitude discomfort.
• Oxygen & Altitude Support: Guides carry portable oxygen on routes above 3,000 m.a.s.l. when needed.
• Emergency Access: Routes are selected with beauty, cultural value, and accessibility in mind.
• Traveler Responsibility: Inform your guide immediately if you feel unwell.

Travel insurance is highly recommended. Even though this is not a trek, weather, train delays, health concerns, luggage issues, or unexpected changes can affect travel plans.

• Medical emergencies and altitude-related concerns.
• Trip cancellations or itinerary interruptions.
• Weather-related delays or disruptions.
• Emergency evacuation and repatriation.
• Lost or delayed luggage.
• Coverage for adventure or high-altitude activities if you continue with trekking after this tour.

• Eco-Friendly Travel: We follow low-impact travel practices to protect cultural and natural heritage.
• Plastic-Free Philosophy: Bring a reusable water bottle and help reduce single-use plastic.
• Respect for Local Culture: Every destination is treated with reverence, especially sacred sites, communities, and ancestral customs.
• Community Empowerment: Your journey supports local guides, drivers, artisans, restaurants, hotels, and community partners.
• Fair Tourism: We prioritize responsible partnerships and meaningful cultural exchange.

• Valid Passport: Required for Machu Picchu entry and train checks. Bring the original, not a copy.
• Student ID: Required if you booked with a student discount.
• Immigration Card: If applicable, keep it safe as some hotels may request it.
• Travel Insurance Details: Bring your policy number and emergency contact information.
• Small Travel Bag: Bring a small overnight bag or carry-on for the 2-night journey.

• Comfortable Walking Shoes: Essential for cobblestone streets, archaeological terraces, stone paths, and Machu Picchu stairs.
• Layered Clothing: Bring breathable clothing, a fleece or sweater, and a light jacket.
• Rain Poncho or Waterproof Jacket: Useful year-round, especially around Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes.
• Sun Hat or Cap: Important for high-altitude sun exposure.
• Light Scarf or Buff: Useful for sun, wind, and cool mornings.
• Extra Clothes: Bring comfortable clothes for two overnight stays.

• Sunscreen: SPF 50+ is recommended.
• UV Sunglasses: Useful at high altitude and Machu Picchu.
• Lip Balm & Hydrating Cream: Helpful for dry air and changing climates.
• Hand Sanitizer: Useful before meals and after train or bus transfers.
• Wet Wipes: Helpful during travel days.
• Personal Medication: Bring prescriptions, motion sickness tablets, and any medicine you normally use.

• Small Daypack: Recommended under 25L for Machu Picchu regulations.
• Passport: Required for entry.
• Water Bottle: Bring a reusable bottle.
• Snacks: Useful for train days and early mornings.
• Camera or Smartphone: Perfect for Sacred Valley landscapes and Machu Picchu.
• Power Bank: Recommended for long travel days.
• Cash in Soles: Useful for snacks, tips, souvenirs, bathrooms, or small local purchases.

At Inside Peru Adventures, we do not just guide tours - we design meaningful journeys through the heart of the Andes. Our small-group approach ensures personalized attention, cultural depth, and a closer connection with the land, its people, and its stories.

This journey combines expert guiding, smooth logistics, responsible tourism, and an exclusive immersive experience that brings you beyond standard sightseeing.

This journey is designed for comfort, cultural immersion, and gentle activity. Most visits involve easy to moderate walking through archaeological sites, markets, stone paths, terraces, and train stations.

• No trekking experience is required.
• Expect stairs and uneven surfaces at Machu Picchu and archaeological sites.
• Comfortable shoes and sun protection are strongly recommended.
• This tour is suitable for most healthy travelers, including families.

Altitude sickness can happen when traveling in high-altitude regions of Peru. This itinerary is designed to help you acclimatize gradually by spending time in the Sacred Valley before visiting Machu Picchu, which is lower than Cusco.

• Day 1: Sacred Valley, Pisaq, Maras, and Moray - gentle cultural exploration.
• Day 2: Ollantaytambo and immersive experience before traveling to lower Aguas Calientes.
• Day 3: Machu Picchu, located at 2,430 m / 7,972 ft.
• Drink water, eat light meals, avoid alcohol, and walk slowly.
• All guides carry first-aid support and are trained to assist if symptoms arise.

Expect broad temperature changes. Mornings and evenings can be cool in Cusco, Ollantaytambo, Pisaq, and Moray. Midday can be sunny and dry. Aguas Calientes is warmer and more humid.

• Bring layers for changing temperatures.
• Use sunscreen and sunglasses even on cloudy days.
• Carry a light rain jacket or poncho, especially from November to March.

Yes. This 3-day experience is suitable for travelers of many ages, including children aged 6 and up, especially those who enjoy cultural activities, scenic train rides, and light walking.

Parents should keep in mind that some sites include stairs and stone surfaces. Bring snacks, water, sun protection, and comfortable shoes.

• Expert Local Guides: Passionate professionals trained in altitude management, first aid, and deep cultural storytelling.
• Safety First: First-aid support, oxygen when needed, and careful pacing.
• Community-Centered Travel: We collaborate with local families, artisans, hotels, restaurants, and transport providers.
• Seamless Logistics: Train coordination, hotel stays, Machu Picchu entry, bus tickets, transport, and guiding are handled professionally.
• Scenic & Cultural Depth: In three unforgettable days, you experience ancient temples, vibrant villages, living traditions, and Machu Picchu.
• Immersive & Meaningful: Our signature Inside Experience helps you connect with the living culture of the Andes, not just observe it.