2-Day Private Tour : Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu by Train

If you’re dreaming of visiting Machu Picchu, this 2-day private tour offers a well-rounded journey through the Inca heartland. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviewing countless traveler experiences and detailed itineraries suggests it’s a comprehensive way to explore Peru’s most iconic sites. From vibrant local markets to breathtaking archaeological ruins, this tour blends culture, scenic train rides, and the comfort of private guides.

What we find particularly appealing are the expert guides who bring the sites to life and the spectacular train journey that offers stunning vistas along the Vilcanota River. However, a potential consideration is that this tour involves quite a packed schedule, so travelers should be comfortable with a full itinerary and moderate physical activity.

This trip is ideal for those who want an in-depth, authentic Peruvian experience without the hassle of organizing each detail themselves. It’s perfect for travelers who value comfort, knowledgeable storytelling, and a carefully curated route that hits all the highlights of Cusco’s Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.

Key Points

• Expert Guides enhance the cultural and historical understanding of each site.
• Scenic train rides offer memorable views along the Vilcanota River.
• The itinerary includes visits to local markets, archaeological sites, and iconic ruins.
• Accommodation in 3-star hotels in Aguas Calientes provides comfort after long days.
• The tour’s all-inclusive features deliver great value for a comprehensive experience.
• Adequate physical fitness is recommended due to walking and staircases at sites.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

Day 1: From Cusco to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu

The adventure begins early, with a pickup from your hotel between 7:30 and 7:50 am. Traveling in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll head out of Cusco toward the Sacred Valley, a corridor peppered with Inca ruins and traditional villages.

First stop: the Centro Histórico de Cusco. This quick introduction (about 15 minutes) sets the tone, offering first glimpses of the city’s colonial architecture built atop Inca foundations. While a brief stop, it’s a good way to orient yourself before heading into the countryside.

Next, you visit Pisac Market, which is famous for its vibrant handicrafts và local produce. This lively market is a highlight for many travelers, offering a glimpse into traditional Andean commerce. Visitors rave about it, with reviews noting the “very famous and very visited” market atmosphere.

Following this, you’ll explore the Archaeological Park of Pisac—a more in-depth archaeological tour (about an hour) where you’ll see Inca terraces, cemeteries, and religious sites. The panoramic views over the valley are spectacular and give context to the impressive agricultural engineering of the Incas. While entrance fees aren’t included here, the site’s significance as an Inca ceremonial center makes it a must-see.

Afterward, lunch in Urubamba provides a hearty, traditional Peruvian meal—an important rest before continuing. The included meal allows you to sample regional flavors, often favoring dishes like ceviche, causa, or pachamanca.

Post-lunch, the journey continues to the Ollantaytambo archaeological site, a fortified Inca town with original Inca streets. The imposing fortress and terraces, built to guard the valley, make for a compelling visit. As one reviewer mentioned, it’s “an old town that still preserves its Inca architecture”—a living step back in time.

Finally, around 4 pm, you’ll board the scenic Inca Rail train at Ollantaytambo towards Aguas Calientes, the town at the foot of Machu Picchu. The train ride (about 2 hours) offers spectacular river and mountain views, particularly along the Vilcanota River—an experience that many describe as “beautiful and unforgettable.” The train options typically include Voyager (Inca Rail) or Expedition (Peru Rail), depending on availability.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, your hotel staff will transfer you to your accommodation, where you can relax before the next day’s exploration. The evening is free to explore the town’s markets and soak in the atmosphere.

Night in Aguas Calientes

The hotel stay in Aguas Calientes is crucial for maximizing your visit to Machu Picchu. The tour guide will prepare you for an early start, providing tickets and bus tickets during the evening, which you’ll need for the early morning ascent.

Day 2: Machu Picchu and Return

Your day begins with breakfast at the hotel before heading to Machu Picchu. A short 30-minute ride in a tourist bus will take you from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of the Inca citadel. Many travelers highlight the convenience of this transport, which saves energy and time.

Once inside, your private guide will lead you through selected zones of the site for about three hours. As one reviewer notes, you’ll receive “explanations of history and significance”, making the visit more meaningful. The guided tour covers the major areas, but you’ll have some free time afterward to wander and absorb the incredible scenery.

After your visit to Machu Picchu, you’ll have additional time to explore Aguas Calientes itself, perhaps visiting local markets or relaxing in cafes. This flexibility is appreciated by many who want to take in the town or grab final photos.

Later in the afternoon, you’ll be assisted in boarding your train back to Ollantaytambo. The train ride, again, offers stunning views, and the “fascinating landscape” along the Vilcanota River is a highlight for many.

Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, your private transport will bring you back to Cusco, roughly a 2-hour drive, concluding the tour. Your guide will ensure you’re comfortably transferred to your hotel, leaving you with great memories—and maybe a few souvenirs from the markets.

What This Tour Means for You

This 2-day private tour is a solid way to experience Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley without the hassle of booking trains, tickets, or arranging transportation. The inclusion of hotel pickup, private guides, and all necessary tickets makes it a seamless experience.

The scenic train ride is a major highlight, offering unforgettable vistas and a chance to relax while enjoying the Peruvian landscape. The guided visits to key archaeological sites like Pisac and Ollantaytambo enrich your understanding, elevating your trip from simple sightseeing to a more meaningful exploration.

Value-wise, at $665 per person, this experience packs quite a punch—especially considering the entrance tickets, train fare, hotel stay, and guides are all included. For travelers seeking comfort, expert storytelling, and authentic sites, it’s a very appealing package.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

• First-timers eager to see Machu Picchu with the reassurance of a guided experience.
• Those wanting a convenient, all-in-one package that handles logistics.
• Travelers who appreciate scenic train journeys and picturesque landscapes.
• Visitors with moderate physical fitness—walking and some stairs are involved.
• Those keen on culture combined with comfortable hotel stays.

This tour might be less suitable for travelers seeking flexibility or independent exploration, as the schedule is fairly structured. Also, if you prefer to explore at your own pace or avoid guided tours, you might find this approach a bit regimented.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If your priority is to see Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley without the stress of planning, this tour offers an excellent balance of comfort, expert guidance, and authentic sites. The train rides are a memorable way to witness the beauty of the Peruvian landscape, and the inclusion of local markets and archaeological sites ensures a well-rounded experience.

The private guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and friendliness, turning what could be a dry sightseeing day into an engaging cultural journey. The hotel accommodations in Aguas Calientes allow you to rest before your early visit, and the entire itinerary is designed to maximize your time without feeling rushed.

For travelers who value organized, informative, and scenic experiences and are comfortable with a moderate physical pace, this tour provides great value and an unforgettable adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes, as long as participants have a moderate level of physical fitness, since some walking and stair climbing are involved. The tour is private, so you can adjust the pace if needed.

What is included in the price?
The price covers breakfast, lunch, private transportation, hotel in Aguas Calientes, train tickets round trip, entrance to Machu Picchu, bus tickets, and a private guide. It does not include meals outside those specified or personal expenses.

How long are the train rides?
The train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes lasts approximately 2 hours each way, offering scenic views along the Vilcanota River that many find captivating.

Are tickets to Machu Picchu included?
Yes, entrance tickets to Machu Picchu are included, along with the bus tickets for the round trip between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.

Can I customize the tour?
Since this is a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with the provider beforehand. However, the current itinerary is designed to maximize highlights efficiently.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour relies on good weather, especially for the train and outdoor visits. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, this 2-day private tour offers a rich, hassle-free way to experience Peru’s top attractions. It’s especially suited for those who want a guided, scenic, and culturally immersive journey with convenience and comfort at the forefront. If you’re eager to tick Machu Picchu off your bucket list without the stress of logistics, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.