2-Day Private Tour: Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu by train

Introduction

If you’re dreaming of exploring the iconic ruins of Machu Picchu and the vibrant lands of the Sacred Valley, this 2-day private tour might just be what you need. It offers a well-rounded experience, combining culture with breathtaking scenery, all wrapped up in a manageable short trip from Cusco.

What we particularly like about this tour is the seamless combination of expert-guided visits and comfortable transportation. Plus, the inclusion of a scenic train ride adds that extra touch of adventure, providing vistas that can be hard to beat. On the flip side, one thing to consider is the packed itinerary—if you prefer slower, more relaxed travel, some stops might feel a little rushed.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free introduction to this iconic region without sacrificing comfort. It’s especially appealing for those with limited time who still want to get a real feel for the land of the Incas—while enjoying the convenience of all-included logistics.

Key Points

• Expert-guided visits to Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Machu Picchu enhance understanding of Inca culture.
• Scenic train rides along the Sacred Vilcanota River add memorable vistas.
• All transportation, entrance fees, and accommodations are included, simplifying planning.
• The tour is private, catering to small groups for a more personalized experience.
• Two train options are available, allowing some flexibility in comfort and style.
• The trip is well-rated, with most travelers praising the organization and scenery.

Exploring the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu: A Detailed Review

Starting Point: From Cusco to Sacred Valley

Your adventure begins early in Cusco, with a hotel pickup around 7:45 AM. The tour’s timing is designed to maximize daylight hours for sightseeing while maintaining a comfortable pace. The journey from Cusco to the Sacred Valley takes you past key archaeological sites—Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, and Pucapucara—though you’ll pass these without stopping, giving a quick glimpse of these impressive structures from the bus.

One of the high points of this tour is the visit to Awana Kancha, where you’ll spend about 15 minutes learning about textile production and observing South American camelids like llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas. It’s a lively spot for photos and gives a genuine feel for Andean craftsmanship—not just a tourist stop, but an educational one. Many travelers note that this stop adds a charming, authentic touch to the experience.

Next, the scenic Taray viewpoint offers a quick 10-minute chance to snap photos of the Inca terraces, glaciers, and sweeping vistas of the Sacred Valley. It’s a perfect spot to take a deep breath and appreciate the landscape before heading into the archaeological heart of Pisac.

Exploring Pisac and Its Market

The highlight of the morning is the visit to Parque Arqueológico Pisac. Here, you’ll spend about 45 minutes walking through terraces, residences, water channels, and tombs—each telling stories of Inca ingenuity. The guide will help you understand how these terraces were used for agriculture and how the site’s layout reflects Inca engineering.

Following the archaeological site, a visit to the Pisac Market lets you interact with local vendors and observe traditional Peruvian life. It’s a lively, colorful place where you can browse handcrafted textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs. Many reviews highlight this market as a highlight, appreciating the opportunity to connect with local culture.

Lunch and Ollantaytambo

Around midday, the tour stops for a buffet lunch at Tunupa, one of the Sacred Valley’s top restaurants. With vegetarian and vegan options, the meal caters to various dietary preferences and offers a chance to recharge for the afternoon.

Post-lunch, the journey continues along the Urubamba River to Ollantaytambo, a stunning Inca site famous for its impressive terraces and temple structures. A guided tour here lasts about 45 minutes, giving insight into the strategic importance of the site and its remarkable stonework.

Scenic Train Ride to Aguas Calientes

After touring Ollantaytambo, you’ll hop aboard the Inca Rail train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. The train ride, approximately one hour long, offers panoramic views of the Sacred Vilcanota River and lush landscapes—truly a highlight in itself.

In Aguas Calientes, you’ll check into a comfortable 3-star hotel, where you’ll spend the night. The evening is free for you to explore at your own pace or relax after two busy days.

Day 2: Machu Picchu

The next morning starts early with breakfast before heading to the bus station. The quick 25-minute ride up to the Machu Picchu entrance allows you to arrive early, avoiding some of the crowds—an advantage many travelers appreciate.

Your guide will take you through the main highlights of Machu Picchu, sharing insights into its architecture, construction, and purpose. You’ll have access to some of the best photo spots and extra time for personal exploration once the guided tour concludes. The visit, including entrance and guided tour, typically lasts about two hours.

After descending back to Aguas Calientes, you’ll have time for lunch and some independent exploration of the town—perhaps visiting local markets or relaxing in cafes. Later, your train takes you back to Ollantaytambo, and from there, a comfortable transfer returns you to Cusco, arriving around 6:30 PM.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour covers nearly all essentials: entrance tickets, train and bus tickets, hotel accommodation, guided tours, and meals at the Sacred Valley restaurant. These inclusions make it an excellent value for travelers who want a worry-free experience.

However, meals in Aguas Calientes are not included, giving you flexibility to choose where to dine. Tips and optional extras are also not part of the package, so travelers should budget accordingly.

Transportation and Logistics

The private transfer service from Cusco to the Sacred Valley and from Aguas Calientes back to Cusco ensures smooth logistics. The small group size (max 8 participants) means more personalized attention from guides and less waiting around—an advantage for those who dislike large tour groups.

The train options are a nice feature—offering a choice between different classes or styles of travel. This flexibility can enhance the overall experience, allowing you to pick what best suits your comfort level and budget.

Why this Tour Works Well

This trip’s balanced mix of guided visits, scenic train rides, and free time makes it ideal for travelers who enjoy a structured yet flexible itinerary. The inclusion of a local guide enhances learning and provides context that you might miss on your own. The logistics are streamlined, which is crucial when dealing with remote sites like Machu Picchu.

Authentic Experience with a Touch of Comfort

The tour’s emphasis on comfortable transportation, all-inclusive fees, and small groups means you can focus on experiencing Peru’s wonders without the stress of planning every detail. Many reviews praise the organization and professionalism—”seamless transport” and “well-organized” are recurring themes.

Potential Drawbacks

While the itinerary is packed and efficient, some travelers might find the pace slightly rushed, especially at key sites where more time could be desired. The tour’s non-refundable policy is strict; if your plans change, refunds aren’t available, so commitment is necessary.

Also, since the tour involves a lot of movement—bus rides, train journeys, walking—it’s best suited for travelers in good health who can handle a bit of physical activity.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day private tour from Cusco offers an excellent way to see some of Peru’s most iconic sights in a relatively short time. Its combination of guided visits, scenic train travel, and included accommodations provides a satisfying balance of culture, history, and comfort.

It’s a smart choice for those who want to maximize their experience without the hassle of organizing every detail themselves. If you’re eager to stand beneath Machu Picchu’s legendary terraces and walk the ancient paths of the Sacred Valley, this tour delivers a well-rounded, memorable adventure.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for travelers short on time but eager to see the highlights of Inca civilization. It suits those who appreciate guided tours and want everything organized for them, from transport to entrance fees. It’s also ideal for small groups or couples who value a personalized touch.

If you enjoy scenic train rides, cultural interactions at markets, and exploring archaeological sites with knowledgeable guides, you’re likely to find this tour a rewarding introduction to the Peruvian highlands. However, if you prefer more flexibility or a slower pace, consider options with more free time.

Overall, it offers a compelling mix of convenience, authenticity, and spectacular scenery—a fantastic way to tick Machu Picchu off your bucket list.

FAQs

Is hotel accommodation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes one night’s stay at a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes, similar to Inti Punku Machupicchu Hotel & Suites, with all details arranged for comfort.

Are entrance fees to Machu Picchu and other sites included?
Absolutely, all entrance tickets to Machu Picchu, Pisac, and Ollantaytambo are included, so you won’t have to worry about additional costs on the day.

What transportation is used during the tour?
The tour offers private pick-up and drop-off from your hotel, bus rides up to Machu Picchu, and scenic train journeys from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.

Can I choose between different train options?
Yes, the tour provides two train options, allowing you to select a style or class that suits your preferences and budget.

How much free time do I get at Machu Picchu?
After the guided tour, you’ll have additional time to explore Machu Picchu independently, take photos, or simply soak in the views.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Generally yes, but travelers should be prepared for walking and some physical activity; the tour is best suited for those in good health.

What should I pack for the trip?
Bring sunglasses, comfortable clothes and shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, extra camera batteries, and a raincoat if traveling during the rainy season (Dec-Mar).

Is this tour refundable if I change my plans?
No, the booking is non-refundable. Changes are only accepted if requested at least 20 days before the scheduled date.

This 2-day private journey through the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu strikes a fine balance between structured touring and authentic cultural encounters. For those eager to see the highlights with comfort and expert guidance, it’s a rewarding way to experience the spirit of the Incas in a manageable timeframe.