Sacred Valley Tour & Train to Machu Picchu

Start your full-day Sacred Valley tour 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 cultural 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 through one high mountain pass before descending to El Mirador, a stunning panoramic viewpoint overlooking the fertile Sacred Valley and its ancient Inca agricultural terraces.

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

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

In the afternoon, continue to Ollantaytambo, a living Inca town famous for its impressive fortress, stone terraces, temples, and strategic outlook points. Your guide will explain its military, agricultural, and religious importance during the Inca period.

After visiting Ollantaytambo, enjoy dinner either before or after the train journey to Aguas Calientes, depending on the specific departure time assigned for your train. This scenic ride follows the Urubamba River through lush valleys and dramatic mountain landscapes.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, 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, subject to availability.

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 your 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 the entrance of Machu Picchu.

Upon arrival, use the restrooms outside the entrance before entering. Your guided visit follows Circuit 2, subject to availability, or the best available circuit at the time of booking, including the classic panoramic viewpoint near the Watchtower.

During your guided tour, explore the main temples, royal quarters, agricultural terraces, sacred fountains, and important ceremonial sectors while your guide explains Machu Picchu's history, architecture, astronomy, engineering, and spiritual meaning.

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

After the visit, descend by bus back to Aguas Calientes around midday. Lunch is on your own 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, CUZ, 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 Air: The fastest way to reach Cusco is by plane from Lima. LATAM, Avianca, and SKY operate domestic flights.
• Flight Delays: Weather and high-altitude landing restrictions can cause delays or cancellations.
• By Bus: Lima to Cusco by bus takes approximately 20-22 hours. VIP buses can be comfortable for budget travelers.
• Inside Peru Tip: Arrive in Cusco at least one full day before this tour. Two days is even better if you are sensitive to altitude.

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

• Bring essentials only for 1 night in Aguas Calientes.
• Leave large luggage securely in Cusco at your hotel or with Inside Peru Adventures' safe storage facilities.
• Pack a small daypack for Machu Picchu with passport, water, sun protection, rain gear, camera, and personal essentials.
• Make sure each bag is clearly labeled with your name or tag.

• The Sacred Valley is less physically demanding than high-altitude treks, but altitude may still affect travelers arriving from sea level.
• Walk slowly, hydrate often, eat light meals, and avoid alcohol before the tour.
• This tour is a good acclimatization experience before higher treks such as Rainbow Mountain, Inca Trail, Salkantay, Lares, or Ausangate.

This tour is culturally enriching and mostly relaxed. You'll walk across archaeological sites such as Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Machu Picchu, involving stone steps, terraces, uneven paths, and gentle slopes.

• Activity Level: Relaxing to moderate.
• Best For: First-time visitors, families, couples, and travelers who want Machu Picchu without trekking.
• Walking Surfaces: Cobblestone streets, archaeological paths, terraces, stairs, and train station platforms.
• Training Required: No special training required, only comfortable walking shoes and basic mobility.

• Dry Season, April to October: Clearer skies, sunny days, and cooler mornings and evenings.
• Rainy Season, December to February: Frequent showers, cloudy skies, and lush green landscapes.
• Shoulder Months, March and November: Mixed weather. Pack for both sun and rain.
• Layers: Wear breathable layers, a fleece or light jacket, and a packable windbreaker or rain shell.
• Sun Protection: Sunscreen, UV sunglasses, and a hat are essential.
• Daypack: Bring a small daypack under 25L for Machu Picchu.
• Passport: Original passport is required for Machu Picchu entry.

Your safety comes first. Our guides are trained in first aid, high-altitude awareness, evacuation protocols, and outdoor risk management.

• First-aid kit carried on tour.
• Guides monitor altitude symptoms and traveler comfort.
• Oxygen support is available on high-altitude routes and tours when required.
• Emergency response plans are coordinated with local providers and authorities if needed.

Travel insurance is highly recommended. It can help protect you in case of medical issues, cancellations, train disruptions, weather delays, lost luggage, or itinerary interruptions.

• Medical emergencies and altitude-related concerns.
• Trip cancellation or itinerary interruption.
• Weather-related delays or disruptions.
• Emergency evacuation and repatriation.
• Lost or delayed luggage.

Inside Peru Adventures operates this journey with respect for nature, culture, local communities, and Peru's living heritage.

• Responsible Travel: We promote respectful behavior in archaeological sites and local communities.
• Plastic Reduction: Bring a reusable bottle and avoid single-use plastic whenever possible.
• Local Impact: Your journey supports local guides, drivers, restaurants, hotels, artisans, and community-based providers.
• Cultural Respect: Every destination is treated with care, reverence, and educational context.

• Valid Passport: Required for Machu Picchu entry, train checks, and hotel check-in.
• Student ID: Required if booked with a student discount.
• Travel Insurance Details: Recommended for delays, cancellations, and emergencies.
• Train & Hotel Confirmations: Managed by IPA, but a digital copy on your phone is helpful.
• Small Overnight Bag: Bring only what you need for 1 night in Aguas Calientes.

• Comfortable Walking Shoes: Essential for archaeological sites, cobblestones, and Machu Picchu paths.
• Layered Clothing: Breathable base layer, fleece or sweater, and a light rain shell or windbreaker.
• Sun Hat or Cap: Important for Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
• Light Scarf or Buff: Useful for sun, wind, and cool mornings.
• Light Rain Poncho: Weather can change quickly, especially near Machu Picchu.

• Sunscreen SPF 50+ and UV sunglasses.
• Lip balm and hydrating face cream.
• Hand sanitizer and biodegradable wet wipes.
• Personal medication, including motion sickness tablets if needed.
• Insect repellent for Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
• Toiletries for one overnight stay.

• Small Daypack: Recommended max 25L for Machu Picchu.
• Camera or Smartphone: Perfect for Sacred Valley landscapes and Machu Picchu views.
• Power Bank: Useful for photos, tickets, and communication.
• Cash in Soles: Useful for snacks, souvenirs, restrooms, tips, and small purchases.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated and help reduce plastic waste.
• Snacks: Light snacks are useful during train travel or between visits.

Inside Peru Adventures offers a well-organized 2-day cultural journey with small groups, expert guides, smooth train logistics, hotel coordination, and a meaningful visit to Machu Picchu.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to experience the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu without trekking, while still enjoying deep cultural interpretation, comfort, and responsible tourism.

This tour is relaxing to moderate. You'll walk across archaeological paths, terraces, cobblestone streets, train stations, and Machu Picchu circuits. Some sections include stairs and uneven stone surfaces, but no trekking is required.

It is manageable for most healthy travelers with comfortable shoes and a steady pace.

Altitude sickness can affect anyone at high elevations. Cusco is around 3,400 m / 11,150 ft, while Machu Picchu is lower at about 2,430 m / 7,972 ft.

• Arrive in Cusco at least one full day before the tour.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Eat light meals and avoid alcohol.
• Walk slowly and rest when needed.
• Tell your guide immediately if you feel unwell.

Yes. This tour is generally suitable for families, including children over 6 years old, especially those who enjoy cultural activities and light walking.

Parents should bring sun protection, snacks, water, and comfortable clothing for children. The itinerary is easier than trekking routes but still includes walking at archaeological sites.

Yes. The standard package includes one night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes. If you prefer to book your own accommodation, you can choose the tour-only option for US$500 per person.

• Day 1: Buffet lunch in Urubamba and dinner in Aguas Calientes.
• Day 2: Breakfast at the hotel.
• Not Included: Lunch on Day 2 and any meals not specifically listed.

• Small group, maximum 12 guests.
• Sacred Valley cultural depth before Machu Picchu.
• Train, hotel, bus, entrance, and return logistics handled professionally.
• Expert guide trained in history, archaeology, culture, and traveler support.
• Flexible option with or without hotel included.
• Responsible operations through the IPA Sustainable Fund.