A compact two-day loop from Cusco that pairs the Sacred Valley’s living Inca sites with a guided morning at Machu Picchu. Expect train travel, salt pans, terraces and a timed citadel visit—ideal for travelers who want a thorough, managed introduction to the region.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Dawn in Cusco feels like the Andes waking up: thin light cutting across red-tiled roofs as a van threads highland roads toward Chinchero. Within an hour you’re stepping among the neat rows of colonial-era terraces and a living textile center; the air is cool and the mountain breezes seem to test the colors of woven yarns.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: able to walk 2–4 hours over uneven ground at altitude; comfortable with short steep sections.
Wildlife
History
Machu Picchu is a mid-15th-century Inca citadel attributed to Pachacuti; Moray served as an agricultural research and experimentation complex using microclimates created by concentric terraces.
Conservation
Visitor caps and timed entries limit impact; stick to designated paths, avoid single-use plastics, and support local guides and family-run salt pans to help communities preserve the landscape.
Reserve your spot on the 2 Day Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Experience from Cusco today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring your original ID
Machu Picchu requires presentation of the same ID used for ticket purchase—keep it accessible during transfers and at the entrance.
Acclimatize in Cusco first
Spend at least 24–48 hours in Cusco to reduce altitude effects before starting the tour.
Wear grippy shoes
Stone steps and trails at the citadel and Maras can be wet and uneven—trail-running shoes or light hikers work best.
Carry small cash
Markets in Chinchero and Aguas Calientes accept cash for snacks, textiles, and tips where cards may not work.
Sturdy hiking shoes
Provide traction on wet stone steps and comfort for multi-hour walking.
Layered clothing (base, insulating, waterproof)
Temperatures swing with elevation and cloud cover—layers let you adapt quickly.
Reusable water bottle with filter or purification tablets
Hydration at altitude is essential; safe water isn’t always available on the trail.
Daypack with rain cover
Carries camera, ID, snacks, and extra layers while protecting them from sudden showers.