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Discover the essence of the Andes on a journey that brings together two of the most extraordinary destinations in Peru. Explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas amidst spectacular landscapes, archeological sites, and ancestral traditions, before dedicating the second day to exploring the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. A trip designed to enjoy each experience with greater comfort, without rush, and with personalized attention.
Overview of the Machu Picchu, Maras and Moray tour
Why choose this experience with us?
- Small groups for a more personal experience: Travel in personalized groups at each destination, enjoying a more comfortable, flexible, and attentive journey.
- More time to enjoy Machu Picchu: Thanks to efficient planning and the small group of a maximum of 4 passengers in Machu Picchu, you will have the necessary time to explore the citadel at a leisurely pace and fully enjoy its landscapes.
- An expert local guide for the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu: Discover the history, architecture and Inca legacy with a professional guide who enriches every moment of the visit.
- Personal support from the start: From the pickup at your hotel in Cusco, a Sakura Expedition representative coordinates every detail of the trip so everything runs smoothly.
Itinerary at a glance
Cusco – Chinchero – Weaving centre – Moray – Maras – Urubamba – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
Discover the main sights of the Sacred Valley, among ancestral traditions, unique textiles and impressive Inca structures. The first day ends in Aguas Calientes, after boarding the tourist train in Ollantaytambo.
Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
The second day is devoted to the Inca citadel. With your professional guide you walk through its main enclosures while learning about the history, architecture and legacy of the Inca empire. In the afternoon, after a short visit to Aguas Calientes, you return to Cusco.
Tour facts
| Detail | Day 1 | Day 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Activity | 30 to 50 minutes for each attraction. | 2 to 3 hours of guided tour at Machu Picchu |
| Highest point | Chinchero: 12,316 ft / 3,754 m | Machu Picchu: 7,972 ft / 2,430 m |
| Lowest point | Aguas Calientes: 6,693 ft / 2,040 m | Aguas Calientes: 6,693 ft / 2,040 m |
| Difficulty | Easy | Easy |
| Temperature | 46 °F to 79 °F (8 °C to 26 °C) | 46 °F to 79 °F (8 °C to 26 °C) |
Highlights of the route
- Chinchero: a traditional Andean village with an important Inca archaeological site and a rich cultural legacy, which we discover through a demonstration of ancestral techniques at one of its weaving centres.
- Moray: its circular terraces are one of the most impressive sights in the Sacred Valley. They are believed to have been an Inca agricultural laboratory, thanks to their many microclimates.
- Maras: the salt pans form a unique landscape, with more than 3,000 salt pools worked since pre-Hispanic times.
- Urubamba: known as the capital of the Sacred Valley, this is where we stop for lunch.
- Ollantaytambo: a town that keeps its original Inca layout, with an impressive archaeological site and the main train station for Machu Picchu.
- Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town): the main service hub and gateway to Machu Picchu.
- Machu Picchu: an Inca citadel considered one of the main retreats of the Inca elite, as well as a sanctuary and astronomical centre among tropical mountains.
Itinerary of the Machu Picchu, Maras and Moray tour
Cusco – Chinchero – Weaving centre – Moray – Maras salt pans – Urubamba – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
Today you discover the essence of the Sacred Valley among traditional villages, impressive Andean landscapes and ancient Inca sites that open your journey to Machu Picchu.
- The experience starts with the pickup at your hotel in Cusco at around 7:30 a.m., heading for the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
- Our first stop is Chinchero, where we visit its archaeological site, with wide agricultural terraces and Inca walls alongside colonial architecture. We then meet the local communities, who share their Andean weaving tradition in a guided experience: you learn about natural dyeing with plants and minerals and about the loom techniques passed down through generations.
- We continue to Moray, known for its impressive circular terraces. The Incas are believed to have used it as an agricultural laboratory, as each level creates a different microclimate that allowed them to experiment with various crops.
- Next we visit the Maras salt pans, just minutes from Moray. This set of more than three thousand stepped pools draws on a natural salt spring used since pre-Inca times, and offers one of the most iconic landscapes of the Sacred Valley.
- At midday we stop for lunch in Urubamba, in the heart of the Sacred Valley, with a buffet that brings together a wide selection of traditional Andean and international dishes.
- In the afternoon we continue to Ollantaytambo, the last stop of the day. We explore one of the best preserved Inca towns in Peru, walking its cobbled streets and visiting its imposing fortress, built strategically on the mountainside.
- We then board the tourist train in Ollantaytambo for Aguas Calientes. The journey takes about two hours, during which the landscape changes gradually from the Andean highlands to the lush flora of the cloud forest.
- In Aguas Calientes you spend the night at a comfortable hotel. If you wish, you can wander its welcoming streets, visit its attractions or simply look up at the stars on a magical Andean night, getting ready for the visit to Machu Picchu.
Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Today you live the most awaited moment of the trip: exploring Machu Picchu and discovering the history that has made this citadel one of the great treasures of the world.
- The second day starts early, after breakfast at the hotel. With our guide we head to the bus station for Machu Picchu. The ride is short, about 25 minutes, through the biodiversity that surrounds the wonder of the world.
- At Machu Picchu you visit some of its most important structures, according to the assigned circuit, while your guide shares the history and the mysteries behind each enclosure.
- After the visit we return to Aguas Calientes, where you have free time to enjoy this picturesque town: choose a restaurant for lunch, wander its streets or visit its colourful local market.
- In the late afternoon we travel back on the tourist train, whose windows let you enjoy the scenery all the way. At Ollantaytambo a private vehicle is waiting to take us back to Cusco, closing an adventure that combines history, nature and living culture.
What the Machu Picchu, Maras and Moray tour includes
Machu Picchu entrance ticket
Once your booking is confirmed we buy the entrance tickets according to current availability, always looking for the best option for your visit. Your tour may follow one of these circuits:
- Circuit 2, routes 2A or 2B. Offers the classic panoramic view of Machu Picchu along with some of the main enclosures of the citadel.
- Circuit 3, route 3B. Gives a different perspective, following the lower sector of the Historic Sanctuary.
- Circuit 1, route 1B. Runs through the panoramic sector, with the best views and the classic postcard photo from the Guardian's House.
Each circuit is designed to show different sectors of the citadel. We arrange the best circuit available when your booking is confirmed. Because of high demand, we recommend booking early.
Sacred Valley tickets
- Day 1: partial tourist ticket (BTG), which gives access to the archaeological sites of Chinchero, Moray and Ollantaytambo.
- Day 1: entrance to the Maras salt pans, an impressive set of thousands of salt pools.
Support and safety
- Pre-tour briefing. The day before, our representative goes through every detail of the programme with you and answers your questions.
- Private professional bilingual guide at Machu Picchu (Spanish and English), dedicated exclusively to your group, with detailed explanations of the history, culture and legacy of the citadel.
- Shared-group guide for the Sacred Valley, with specialist guides who enrich the experience with the history, culture and traditions of the destination.
- 24/7 customer service, with an emergency number available from start to finish.
Accommodation and meals
- Day 1: one night at a 3★ hotel in Aguas Calientes, in a double or twin room. For other room types, please ask when booking.
- Day 1: buffet lunch in Urubamba, with a wide selection of traditional Andean and international dishes.
- Day 2: Lunch at Café Inkaterra or similar, diverse gastronomic selection.
Transport
- Day 1: shared tourist transportation for a maximum of 16 passengers from Cusco and throughout the Sacred Valley tour.
- Day 1: Expedition train by PeruRail or Voyager by Inca Rail, from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.
- Day 2: buses up and down between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
- Day 2: Expedition train by PeruRail or Voyager by Inca Rail, from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
- Day 2: private transfer from Ollantaytambo to your hotel in Cusco.
Not included
- Day 1: breakfast and dinner.
- Travel insurance (recommended): cover for flight cancellations or delays, lost or delayed luggage, illness, accidents, trip interruptions and medical assistance.
- Tips (optional).
- Extra costs caused by circumstances beyond our control: adverse weather, itinerary changes for safety reasons, illness, strikes, political instability or changes in government policy.
Machu Picchu, Maras and Moray Tour Price
Rates
| Rate | 2026 Price | 2027 Price | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult | 419 USD | To be confirmed | Group of at least 2 people. |
| University Student | 394 USD | To be confirmed | Valid physical university ID. |
Booking Guarantee
To secure your entrance to Machu Picchu and train tickets, a USD 200.00 deposit per person must be paid at the time of booking. The remaining balance can be paid at our office in Cusco in cash, or according to your travel advisor's instructions.
Upgrade Your Experience
| Add-on | Price | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1: Vistadome Train Outbound Upgrade | 38 USDper person | Return to Cusco while enjoying spectacular panoramic views, comfortable seats and a superior travel experience aboard one of the most popular trains. |
| Day 2: Lunch at Sanctuary Lodge Tinkuy | 45 USDper person | The best option for lunch next to Machu Picchu, featuring a varied buffet in a unique setting just steps from the citadel. |
| Day 2: Huayna Picchu Mountain Entrance | 48 USDper person | Add one of the most exclusive hikes in Machu Picchu and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from the famous Huayna Picchu Mountain. Availability is very limited, so we recommend booking at least 5 months in advance. |
| Day 2: Vistadome Train Return Upgrade | 25 USDper person | Return to Cusco while enjoying spectacular panoramic views, comfortable seats and a superior travel experience aboard one of the most popular trains. |
| Day 2: Vistadome Observatory Train Return Upgrade | 48 USDper person | Return from your adventure with a unique experience. Enjoy panoramic windows, an open-air observatory car and live Andean music while taking in the impressive landscapes of the Sacred Valley on your journey back from Machu Picchu. |
Book in Advance
Machu Picchu can be visited year-round, but entrance tickets and train tickets have limited availability and often sell out. We recommend booking 3 to 5 months in advance to access more circuits, entrance times and train services.
What to bring on the Machu Picchu, Maras and Moray tour
These are the most important things to bring on your trip through the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
Required documents
- Original, valid passport or national ID. It is required to enter Machu Picchu and for the Sacred Valley tickets.
- Valid physical student card, if you booked the student rate.
Luggage and clothing
- A small day backpack for your essentials.
- Comfortable clothing suitable for walking, plus what you need for the night in Aguas Calientes.
- Comfortable footwear with good grip.
- A waterproof jacket or rain poncho, especially between November and March.
- Warm clothing for the Sacred Valley, which sits at a higher altitude.
- A hat or cap and sunglasses.
- A special outfit for your photos at Machu Picchu.
Personal items
- Sunscreen and insect repellent.
- Personal medication.
- A reusable water bottle.
- Light snacks.
- Cash in soles for personal expenses and for buying textiles or handicrafts.
Gear and extras
- Camera or phone and a power bank.
- Headphones.
Important notes
- Travel light for a more comfortable experience.
- Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu have the warm, humid climate of the cloud forest. Some humidity in the hotels is normal.
- Keep your documents and valuables with you at all times.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Machu Picchu, Maras and Moray Tour
When is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu can be visited year-round, but it is worth considering the two seasons that characterize the Cusco region. The dry season, from April to October, generally offers sunnier days and clear skies, ideal for enjoying the landscapes. The rainy season, from November to March, brings more frequent rainfall and greener, more lush vegetation.
Regardless of the time of year you choose, we recommend booking your entrance ticket as far in advance as possible, as availability is limited and tickets often sell out quickly on certain dates.
Does this tour operate every day?
Yes, we operate this tour year-round. However, Machu Picchu entrance tickets and train tickets have limited availability, so we recommend booking in advance to secure your spot and access a wider range of schedules and circuits.
Which places are visited during the Maras and Moray Tour?
The Maras and Moray Tour explores the Sacred Valley, including Chinchero and its textile center, Moray, the Maras Salt Mines, Urubamba, where lunch is served, and Ollantaytambo.
How long does the Maras and Moray Tour take on the first day?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours. It starts at 7:30 a.m. and ends around 4:00 p.m., before boarding the train to Aguas Calientes.
Does the tour include breakfast on the first day?
No. Breakfast is not included in the program, so we recommend having breakfast at your hotel before departure or requesting a box breakfast to take with you during the tour.
Can I buy textiles or local products during the tour?
Yes. During your visit to the Chinchero textile center and the Maras Salt Mines, you will have time to explore and purchase products made by local communities, such as handmade textiles, alpaca garments and handicrafts.
How many passengers are included in the Maras, Moray and Machu Picchu service?
We believe that visiting Maras, Moray and Machu Picchu deserves personalized attention and a comfortable pace. At Machu Picchu, the service is designed for small groups of 2 to 6 passengers, allowing for a more exclusive and flexible experience. The Sacred Valley tour is operated on a shared basis.
If your reservation is for 2 passengers, your departure is guaranteed and will be operated directly by Sakura Expedition, without combining you with other groups or agencies. If you are traveling alone, we can also help you join a small group that has already been confirmed for the same date. Please check the available options with your travel advisor.
How far in advance should I book the Machu Picchu, Maras and Moray Tour?
We recommend booking 3 to 5 months in advance, especially if you plan to travel during the high season. Every year, more travelers organize their trips several months in advance, and since Machu Picchu has limited capacity, tickets sell out quickly.
Booking in advance will give you access to greater availability of circuits, entrance times and train services.
Which Machu Picchu circuit is included?
This program can be operated on any of the three Machu Picchu circuits, depending on current availability at the time of booking confirmation. Each circuit offers a different experience, including routes through the citadel, panoramic views, or a combination of both.
Although many travelers usually request Circuit 2, Circuits 1 and 3 also offer unique perspectives of Machu Picchu. Our team will always arrange the best available option for your trip.
Can I choose my Machu Picchu entrance time?
We will do our best to arrange your preferred entrance time. However, entrance times are subject to availability at the time of booking confirmation and must be compatible with the tour itinerary.
What type of train is included in the tour?
If you would like a superior experience, you can request an upgrade to the following categories, subject to availability and at an additional cost:
Day 1: Vistadome Train Outbound Upgrade + USD 38 per person
Return to Cusco while enjoying spectacular panoramic views, comfortable seats and a superior travel experience aboard one of the most popular trains.
Day 2: Vistadome Train Return Upgrade + USD 25 per person
Return to Cusco while enjoying spectacular panoramic views, comfortable seats and a superior travel experience aboard one of the most popular trains.
Day 2: Vistadome Observatory Train Return Upgrade + USD 48 per person
Begin your adventure with a unique experience. Enjoy panoramic windows, an open-air observatory car and live Andean music while taking in the impressive landscapes of the Sacred Valley on your journey to Machu Picchu.
How do I know if the Machu Picchu, Maras and Moray Tour is right for me?
It is an excellent alternative for exploring the most important attractions in Cusco over two days at your own pace. Thanks to the optimized itinerary, you will experience the highlights of each destination in the Sacred Valley and visit Machu Picchu at a relaxed pace after spending a night in Aguas Calientes.
The program includes entrance tickets, transportation, a guide and accommodation, with an easy difficulty level. We only recommend booking in advance to access your preferred Machu Picchu circuit.
What age is the tour recommended for?
It is an excellent option for travelers of all ages, as it does not require long hikes or significant physical effort. It is recommended for children aged 8 and older when accompanied by their parents, and it is an ideal alternative for older adults who want to visit Machu Picchu comfortably and safely.
There is no maximum age for taking this tour. However, we recommend consulting your doctor before traveling if you have any particular health condition.
At what age do children pay for Machu Picchu?
Children aged 3 and older require an entrance ticket to Machu Picchu and may receive special rates depending on their age and nationality. To access these benefits, a valid passport or identification document must be presented at the time of booking and during the visit. Our team will provide information about the applicable rates.
What is the difficulty level of this tour?
The difficulty level is easy. It is designed for travelers who want to visit Machu Picchu through a comfortable, cultural and accessible experience, without long hikes or demanding treks.
What time do we return to Cusco?
The return to Cusco is scheduled for approximately 7:00 to 8:00 p.m., depending on the train departure time and the operational conditions of the service.
How long does the guided tour of Machu Picchu last?
The guided tour lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours, although it may be slightly longer depending on the group's pace. Since this is a private service, you will have enough time to make stops, take photographs and learn in detail about the history and secrets of Machu Picchu with your guide.
Can I add Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain to this tour?
Yes. Both options can be added, subject to availability. These hikes require a moderate level of physical fitness, and we recommend avoiding them if you suffer from vertigo, especially when ascending Huayna Picchu. Tickets often sell out in advance, so it is advisable to request them when booking.
Can I bring a large suitcase or backpack?
For a more comfortable experience, we suggest bringing only a small backpack with your essential belongings for the day.
Can I take luggage to Aguas Calientes?
Yes. You can take up to 8 kg of luggage on the train to Aguas Calientes. However, for a more comfortable visit, we recommend bringing only a small backpack with the essentials for Machu Picchu.
Your main luggage can remain at your hotel in Cusco, as most hotels offer complimentary luggage storage for their guests. Some train stations also provide this service.
Who will meet us when we return to Ollantaytambo Station?
Upon your arrival at Ollantaytambo, our staff will be waiting for you with a sign displaying your name to assist you and provide a comfortable transfer back to Cusco.
Does the tour include transportation to my hotel?
Yes. The service includes transportation from your hotel in Cusco to the train station and transportation from Ollantaytambo back to your hotel.
Is the guide service shared or provided in a small group?
In Maras and Moray, the guide service is shared in groups of up to 16 passengers, allowing for a dynamic and enriching experience throughout the tour.
At Machu Picchu, the guide service is completely private to provide a more exclusive and personalized visit. At Sakura Expedition, we prioritize personalized attention so that you and your group can enjoy a more comfortable, flexible and enriching experience during your visit to the Inca citadel.
Private groups at Machu Picchu consist of a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 6 passengers. If you are traveling alone, we recommend consulting your sales representative to learn about the available options.
Are the transfers private or shared?
The ground transfers included in this program are private, both outbound and return, with the exception of the tourist train and the bus up to Machu Picchu.
What is the booking process?
Step 1. Availability check. Write to us at info@sakuraexpedition.com to check available dates. We will send you a personalized booking form that each participant must complete.
Step 2. Passenger information. To arrange your official Machu Picchu entrance ticket and train tickets, we need the following information: full name, gender, passport number, date of birth (dd/mm/yyyy) and nationality. Without this information, it is not possible to purchase tickets or train tickets.
Step 3. Deposit and confirmation. Once we receive the completed forms, we will request a USD 200.00 deposit per person to proceed with the purchase of entrance tickets and train tickets. We recommend booking in advance, as spaces sell out quickly.
Step 4. Final confirmation. Once everything has been secured, you will receive your official confirmation invoice. At that point, your reservation will be 100% guaranteed.
How can I pay the remaining balance?
The remaining balance can be paid in cash, in U.S. dollars or Peruvian soles, at our office in Cusco or according to your travel advisor's instructions.
Can I leave my luggage at your office?
Of course. During your trip, your main luggage can be stored at our office or at your hotel, both free of charge.
Are tips expected?
Tips are completely voluntary. All our staff receive fair compensation, so any gratuity is entirely at your discretion.
Why choose Sakura Expedition for your trip?
Sakura Expedition is a 100% Peruvian local operator specializing in adventure and cultural tourism in Cusco and Peru. We have a team of certified guides and dedicated operational staff committed to providing unique, safe and high-quality experiences. We stand out for responsible and sustainable tourism, respect for local communities and personalized attention in every service.
Here is what sets us apart:
- Small groups: a more comfortable and personalized experience with greater attention from our guides.
- In-house operations and local team: we coordinate our programs directly, allowing us to maintain high standards of quality, punctuality and organization.
- Certified professional guides: a team that passionately shares the history, culture and traditions of Peru.
- Personalized attention: we assist you before, during and after your trip, providing ongoing support and timely responses.
- Responsible and sustainable tourism: we work with partner communities, respecting their traditions and contributing to the development of local families.
- Commitment to safety: safety protocols, appropriate equipment and trained staff.
- Certified local company: we are a 100% Peruvian company based in Cusco, and this year we obtained the CALTUR Oro Certification, the highest recognition for tourism quality in Peru.
