This two-day journey through the Sacred Valley and into Machu Picchu has been firmly on my hit list for what feels like an eternity. It’s an itinerary that promises more than just sightseeing; it’s about a full-on immersion into the heart of the Inca world. I’m desperate to get lost in the legendary history of the region, exploring the iconic archaeological sites of Pisac and Ollantaytambo before the ultimate scenic train ride. The thought of spending a night in the valley town below the citadel, soaking in the atmosphere before the main event, is simply the perfect way to build the anticipation. This is one of those all-out trips I can’t wait to finally check off my list.
The day would kick things off with an early 7:30 a.m. pickup from my hotel in Cusco (elevation: 3,399 m / 11,152 ft), heading straight into the Sacred Valley. The first major stop, just 45 minutes away, is the Archaeological Center of Pisac (elevation: 2,972 m / 9,751 ft). I find it fascinating that its Quechua name translates to “partridge” and that this incredible site, with its vast agricultural terraces and urban design, was a key point on the Qhapaq Ñan road system that connected the Andes to the jungle. It’s a chance to see Incan ingenuity firsthand before heading to the town’s famous artisan market.
Around midday, the plan is to head to Urubamba (elevation: 2,871 m / 9,420 ft) for a buffet lunch—a perfect opportunity to dive into delicious Peruvian cuisine. The afternoon is reserved for what I’m personally most excited about on this first day: the Archaeological Center of Ollantaytambo (elevation: 2,792 m / 9,160 ft). This place is an untouched old-world town, an incredible mix of Inca and colonial planning that’s been named the “Best Tourism Village in the World.” It was a critical military, religious, and agricultural hub for the Incas, and you can still see the imposing walls, watchtowers, and storehouses built under the command of Inca Pachacutec. It’s a place seemingly frozen in time.
From here, the journey continues with a late afternoon train from Ollantaytambo station. This is the part that feels truly magical—winding through the dramatic valley landscape towards Aguas Calientes (elevation: 2,040 m / 6,693 ft), the charming town where I’d spend the night, buzzing with anticipation for the day to come.
An early start is essential because today is all about the ultimate prize: Machu Picchu (elevation: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft). The day begins by heading to the bus station for the 25-minute ride up the winding road to the archaeological sanctuary. I can only imagine the feeling as the mountains whisper their ancient secrets on the way up. Arriving in time to see the citadel emerge with the morning light is an experience that’s calling my name.
Once inside, I’ll have a 2-hour guided tour to get my history fix. I can’t wait to have an expert guide walk me through the citadel’s captivating history and architecture, explaining the incredible engineering, art, and harmony with nature. Machu Picchu is a masterpiece, divided into agricultural and urban zones with plazas, temples, and pathways. The famous farming terraces (andenes) and the advanced hydraulic system of channels and aqueducts are wonders of agricultural engineering I’m desperate to see up close.
After the guided tour, there’s time to explore a little more before taking the bus back down to Aguas Calientes for lunch. From there, it’s time to board the train back to Ollantaytambo, where a transfer will be waiting to take me back to my hotel in Cusco, wrapping up what I know will be an epic two-day adventure.
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