Can You Combine the Sacred Valley Day Trip from Cusco with Machu Picchu?
If you’re short on time but still want to experience two of the most iconic destinations in Peru, combining the Sacred Valley day trip from Cusco with Machu Picchu can be a smart move. The key lies in understanding travel times, ticketing requirements, and the best way to sequence your visits.
Here’s how to create a smooth, unforgettable multi-stop itinerary.
1. Start Early for the Sacred Valley
To make the most of a Sacred Valley tour, start your day as early as possible—ideally before sunrise. This allows you to visit major sites like Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero without large crowds.
An early start also leaves you enough time to reach the train station in Ollantaytambo for the onward journey to Aguas Calientes. Keeping stops concise and prioritizing highlights ensures you enjoy the valley’s culture, markets, and history while still staying on schedule for the next leg of your trip.
2. Time Your Machu Picchu Entry
If you plan to see Machu Picchu after the Sacred Valley tour from Cusco, aim for an afternoon entry ticket. This gives you time to finish your Sacred Valley visits, board the train, and arrive in Aguas Calientes without rushing.
Afternoon visits often have fewer crowds, and the softer light makes for great photos. Just ensure your train tickets match your Machu Picchu slot, allowing enough buffer for transit and any unexpected delays. Pairing these two tours requires precision in timing but rewards you with a rich, diverse travel experience.
3. Use the Train from Ollantaytambo
One of the most efficient ways to link the Machu Picchu tour by train with your Sacred Valley trip is to depart directly from Ollantaytambo. Many Sacred Valley tours naturally end there, making it an easy transition to board the train.
The ride to Aguas Calientes offers scenic Andean landscapes, so you’re not just traveling—you’re sightseeing along the way. This route eliminates unnecessary backtracking to Cusco and keeps your itinerary flowing smoothly toward Machu Picchu, giving you more time to explore once you arrive.
4. Consider an Overnight in Aguas Calientes
If time allows, pair your Machu Picchu package tour with an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes after the Sacred Valley. This removes the pressure of same-day travel and gives you a relaxed start for your Machu Picchu visit.
You can enjoy the town’s restaurants, hot springs, and artisan shops before heading up the mountain the next day. This option also lets you book an early morning entry to Machu Picchu, experiencing the citadel in soft dawn light before peak tourist hours.
5. Book with a Combined Tour Operator
Choosing a company that offers a Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu package streamlines logistics and avoids scheduling mishaps. These operators arrange tickets, transfers, and guided tours in both destinations, ensuring your connections are smooth.
You’ll save time by avoiding the hassle of juggling separate bookings, and knowledgeable guides can enrich your experience with historical context and insider tips. A combined tour package is especially helpful if you’re new to Peru or traveling during peak seasons when tickets sell out quickly.
The Perfect Two-in-One Adventure
Combining the Sacred Valley day trip from Cusco with Machu Picchu is entirely possible with the right planning. From catching the train at Ollantaytambo to choosing optimal entry times, every detail matters to make the experience seamless.
To book your day trip with the best local guides in the business, connect with our dedicated teams at Rainbow Mountain Expeditions. Experience two incredible highlights of Peru in a single, well-orchestrated trip by booking your day trip today.
