To visit Machu Picchu, most travelers (99%, to be exact) first need to get to Cusco, a major city in central Peru. Yes, you heard that right, Cusco is a true metropolis in Peru.
So, how do you get from this big city, Cusco, to Machu Picchu?
A two-day itinerary looks like this:
- Day 1: Take a Sacred Valley day tour to Ollantaytambo, then board a train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo) and stay overnight in Aguas Calientes.
- Day 2: In the morning, head to Machu Picchu, then take the train back to Cusco in the afternoon.
If you only have one day, take a combination of a bus and train from Cusco to Machu Picchu, then return to Cusco in the afternoon or evening.
Why Is a One-Day Round Trip from Cusco to Machu Picchu Not Recommended?
Instead of heading directly to Machu Picchu from Cusco, it’s highly recommended to take a Sacred Valley day tour first. Why? Because there are just too many incredible archaeological sites along the way!
Must-Visit Archaeological Sites in the Sacred Valley
- Moray Circular Terraces and Pisaq Terraces: These two sites are a paradise for history lovers! Standing atop the mountains and looking down, you might even get the feeling of, “This is the kingdom I have conquered for you.”
- Maras Salt Mines: This is Summer’s absolute favorite spot—because it’s unbelievably photogenic! Whether you’re a photographer, a model, or just someone who loves capturing stunning moments, Maras Salt Mines is an unmissable destination.
More Reasons to Choose the Sacred Valley Tour
Beyond the sights, the buffet lunch during the Sacred Valley tour is another highlight. Some travelers have shared that, after wandering through South America for a long time, they finally had a meal in Urubamba that was both delicious and great value for money.
Oh, and let’s not forget Ollantaytambo!
Is Ollantaytambo Worth an Overnight Stay?
The first time Summer heard the name “Ollantaytambo,” it sounded like a Chinese town! But after visiting in person, it was clear—no Chinese communities here, just breathtaking ancient ruins everywhere, surrounded 360 degrees.
Ollantaytambo is absolutely worth an overnight stay! Unlike Cusco, which has the constant energy of a bustling city, Ollantaytambo offers a more tranquil, immersive experience. Waking up early and climbing the ruins before the tourists from Cusco arrive gives you a rare moment of solitude—where Ollantaytambo belongs to you alone.
Why Stay in Aguas Calientes on the First Night Instead of Cusco?
Many travelers take a Sacred Valley day tour on the first day, reach Ollantaytambo, and then board a train to Aguas Calientes. But why stay in Aguas Calientes?
Because Aguas Calientes is the most convenient town for visiting Machu Picchu—it’s located right at the foot of the mountain.
If you start from Cusco on the second day, you’ll have to leave as early as 4 or 5 AM, take a combination of a bus and train for several hours, rush through Machu Picchu, and then make the long journey back to Cusco the same day.
On the other hand, if you stay in Aguas Calientes, you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast in the morning, take the shuttle bus up the mountain at your reserved entry time, and explore Machu Picchu at a relaxed pace. After your visit, you can even have a laid-back lunch in Aguas Calientes before making your way back to Cusco at your own pace.
What Are the Different Route Options for the Sacred Valley Tour?
Some travelers have finished their Sacred Valley day tour only to realize they missed the Moray Circular Terraces. Yes, that can happen! That’s because there are two different route options for the Sacred Valley tour:
Option 1:
- Chinchero Market
- Moray Ruins
- Maras Salt Mines
- Buffet Lunch in Urubamba
- Ollantaytambo
- Train to Aguas Calientes
Option 2:
- Pisaq Ruins & Market
- Buffet Lunch in Urubamba
- Ollantaytambo
- Train to Aguas Calientes
If you’re following the Sacred Valley day tour + Machu Picchu day tour schedule, it’s nearly impossible to visit all the sites in just one day while traveling through the Sacred Valley on your way to Aguas Calientes.
For those who want to see everything, Summer recommends adding an extra day—one day for the Sacred Valley tour, another for Machu Picchu, and an additional day to visit the remaining ruins in the Sacred Valley. That way, you won’t miss anything!
How to Plan the Sacred Valley and Other Areas Around Cusco?
Stay tuned for the next post!
I’m Summer, a backpacker passionate about outdoor adventures. I only recommend the best travel experiences for you. Follow me, and let’s talk about South America and travel together!
