The Moray Maras to Machu Picchu Tour (2 Days / 1 Night) offers a balanced experience of culture, scenery and comfort in a short timeframe. The tour begins in the Andean highlands with a guided visit to Moray, a unique site of circular terraces used by the Incas for agricultural experiments. Next, you will visit the Maras Salt Mines, where thousands of salt ponds are still harvested by local families using traditional methods. As you travel through villages and valleys, you will learn about Andean life, Inca engineering, and the region’s cultural heritage. The day ends with a scenic train ride through the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes, where you will stay overnight with views of the cloud forest and mountains.
On the second day, you will explore Machu Picchu with a professional local guide. The tour covers key areas of the citadel, including ceremonial temples, agricultural terraces, stone pathways, water fountains, and panoramic viewpoints that highlight Inca urban planning. This 2-day tour is for travelers seeking an authentic and well-organized experience, combining expert guidance, efficient logistics and memorable scenery. It is ideal for couples, families and first-time visitors, offering a thorough introduction to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu in just two days.
Overview
Itinerary
Inclusions
Packing List
Prices
FAQS
Moray, Salt Mines & Machu Picchu 2-Day Tour
This 2-day tour to Machu Picchu offers a combination of cultural and scenic highlights. The itinerary begins in the Andean highlands at Moray, where you will visit the Inca agricultural terraces, followed by the Maras Salt Mines, known for their hand-harvested salt pools. A train ride through the Sacred Valley then brings you to Aguas Calientes, the entry point to Machu Picchu.
On the second day, visit Machu Picchu with a local guide who will explain its history and architecture. This tour is designed for travelers seeking a well-paced and meaningful experience, combining major sites, efficient logistics, and comfortable travel. It is suitable for families and first-time visitors to Peru.
What You’ll Experience on This Journey
The Andean Living Laboratory
Explore Moray’s circular terraces, an ancient site where Inca innovation transformed the landscape. Experience the altitude, tranquility, and ingenuity of this advanced civilization.
The Golden Salt Sanctuary of Maras
Visit the salt pools of Maras, where thousands of terraces line the mountainside. Traditional hand-harvesting methods continue here, preserving centuries-old practices.
A Legendary Passage Through the Sacred Valley
Travel through the Andes on the Vistadome train along the Urubamba River. Observe the scenery shift from highlands to a vibrant cloud forest.
Machu Picchu, Revealed Like a Dream
At sunrise, watch as the clouds reveal Machu Picchu. This iconic site offers a memorable and inspiring experience, set between mountain and sky.
Effortless Luxury, Deep Connection
Your journey is thoughtfully curated to combine comfort, authenticity, and inspiration. This experience offers a meaningful connection to the culture and landscape of the Andes.
Moray Maras to Machu Picchu Tour Overview
Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night, designed for an immersive yet time-efficient Andean escape.
Difficulty Level: Moderate, suitable for most travelers with a reasonable level of fitness.
Maximum Elevation: Reach 3,500 m (11,500 ft) at Moray, then descend into the cloud forest at 2,730 m (8,956 ft).
Seamless Start: Private pickup from your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley ensures a smooth, stress-free start.
Accommodation: Stay in a carefully selected hotel in Aguas Calientes that combines comfort with local charm.
Intimate Group Size: Group size is limited to 8 travelers to ensure a personalized, high-quality experience.
Best Season: April to October, when the Andes offer the clearest skies and most spectacular views.
Train Journey: Relax on a scenic train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and back, followed by a private transfer to your hotel.
All-Inclusive Excellence: Led by a licensed expert guide, with all permits, entrance tickets (Moray, Maras, and Machu Picchu), and a detailed pre-trek briefing included.
Permit Advisory: Spaces are strictly limited by the government. Early booking, 3 to 4 months in advance, is highly recommended.
Who This Is For: Ideal for discerning travelers who want to experience the Inca Trail and Sacred Valley without committing to the full 4-day trek.
Is This Tour Right for You?
This 2-day Machu Picchu tour is a great choice if you:
Love history and culture: You’ll visit ancient Inca sites, try traditional weaving in Chinchero, and see the unique farming terraces at Moray.
Enjoy beautiful scenery: Take in the stunning Andes mountains, the salt pans of Maras, and the breathtaking views at Machu Picchu.
Have limited time: This two-day trip lets you see several important Inca sites and landmarks without feeling rushed.
Want some adventure: The tour includes hiking and walking, perfect if you like being outdoors.
Can handle changing weather: Conditions can shift, especially in the wet season, so a little flexibility helps.
What’s the Weather Like?
Best time to visit: From April to October, you’ll get mostly sunny days, which makes exploring Machu Picchu and other sites even better.
Rainy season: From November to March, expect more rain. Mornings can be cloudy or wet, but afternoons usually clear up, giving you better views for exploring.
Temperatures: Days are mild, but it can get chilly in the evenings, especially higher up. Dressing in layers will keep you comfortable.
Be prepared: No matter when you visit, bring a light rain jacket and wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven ground around Machu Picchu and other sites.
See the best of Peru with stops in Chinchero, Moray, Maras, Ollantaytambo, and Machu Picchu. This tour is perfect if you’re short on time and want a good mix of culture, history, and scenery. Book your adventure with Qoricancha Expeditions today.
Why You’ll Love Trekking with Us
Two days. Four elements. An unforgettable Andean Experience.
Qorecancha Expeditions
Authentic l Trusted l Reliable l Safe l Community-Focussed l Smaller Groups
Visit Chinchero, Moray, and Maras, Cusco’s leading farming regions, to learn about Inca agricultural practices. The Incas grew staple crops such as potatoes, corn, and quinoa.
The tour starts with an 8 am hotel pickup and private transport to Chinchero, a region known for potato farming. Depending on the season, you may see planting or harvesting. Chinchero is also renowned for its weavers; we will visit a weaving center to learn about textile production and have the opportunity to purchase local souvenirs.
Next, we travel to Moray, with views of the surrounding agricultural landscape. A walking tour will highlight the circular terraces the Incas used to experiment with crops at different altitudes. This site provides a meaningful connection to Pachamama, or Mother Earth.
After Moray, we continue to Urubamba for lunch, then drive about 30 minutes to Ollantaytambo, the last living Inca city. You will have a guided tour of the archaeological site and time to explore the village.
In the evening, you will board a train to Aguas Calientes, at 2,000 meters. Upon arrival, your guide will escort you to your hotel for an overnight stay. This tour blends agricultural heritage, historical sites, and natural beauty for a memorable experience in the Andes.
Accommodation: Tierra Viva Hotels or Similar
Ticket: Included
Meals: Lunch and dinner
Day 02: Machu Picchu Guided Tour - back to Cusco
Today is the most significant day of your journey! After an early breakfast, your guide will meet you at your hotel and take you to catch one of the first buses to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, you’ll be led to the upper terraces of the citadel. Depending on the season, you may witness a magical sunrise over the Andes. This moment offers breathtaking views and the chance to capture unforgettable photos of the Inca masterpiece.
IMPORTANT: We recommend booking your tour 4–5 months in advance to secure entry to Circuit 2, the most popular route because it includes the most important areas of Machu Picchu for a comprehensive guided tour. The site is divided into three circuits (1, 2, and 3), each offering a different perspective, but none covers the entire citadel. At booking, your travel advisor will confirm which circuit is included. Please agree on this detail before placing your deposit.
Your guided tour will last about 2.5 hours, taking you through Machu Picchu’s remarkable temples, terraces, and palaces. As you explore, your guide will share stories about the Inca civilization, giving you a deeper understanding of this sacred site.
For those seeking extra adventure, the climb to Huayna Picchu can be added to your itinerary. This hike requires an additional ticket ($75 per person) and must be booked in advance. The round trip takes about two hours, and the panoramic views from the summit are spectacular. If you do not secure this ticket, you will bid farewell to the “Lost City of the Incas” after your guided visit.
In the afternoon, you will descend by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you will have time for lunch (not included). Later, you will board the train back to Ollantaytambo. Our driver will transfer you to your Cusco hotel, arriving around 8:00 pm. This unforgettable day will remain one of the highlights of your trip.
Accommodation: None- book on your own.
Ticket: Included
Meals: Only Breakfast at Hotel.
What’s Included in Your Journey
Private Pre-Departure Concierge Start with a personalized in-hotel briefing the evening before your journey. We review every detail to ensure you are fully prepared and confident.
Your Andean Expert Guide Travel with a highly trained, English-speaking guide who brings the Andes to life through stories, history, and cultural insight.
Seamless, Door-to-Door Experience From hotel pickup to private transport and panoramic train journeys, every transition is carefully coordinated for your peace of mind.
Carefully Selected Accommodation Stay in a carefully selected 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes, chosen for comfort, service, and proximity to Machu Picchu.
Thoughtfully Curated Dining
Day 1: Trail snacks, lunch, and dinner in town are included.
Day 2: Breakfast is provided before your Machu Picchu visit.
Effortless Mountain Access All shuttle transfers between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu are arranged in advance for a smooth experience.
All Permits Secured for You Access to Moray, Maras Salt Mines, and the Short Inca Trail (Circuit 3) is guaranteed and arranged for you.
Safety Without Compromise Your journey includes a complete first-aid kit and emergency oxygen for safety at all altitudes.
24/7 Local Concierge Support Our team is available before, during, and after your journey to assist with any needs.
What’s Not Included
The following items are not included in the standard package:
Lunch on Day 2 You may select your preferred dining option in Aguas Calientes after your Machu Picchu visit.
Huayna Picchu Climb (Optional) This summit experience is available for an additional fee and is subject to permit availability.
Travel Insurance Comprehensive travel insurance, including medical and trip protection, is strongly recommended for high-altitude travel.
Gratuities Tips are optional but appreciated as recognition for exceptional service from your guide and team.
Packing List for Mora Maras to Machu Picchu Tour
To fully enjoy your Andean adventure, we recommend arriving in Cusco at least two days early to acclimatize to the altitude. Weather in the mountains is beautifully unpredictable
We suggest packing versatile layers, reliable rain gear, and a lightweight daypack (25-30L) for your trail essentials. Since this is a streamlined trek, traveling light allows you to focus on the views while we handle the heavy lifting behind the scenes.
1. The Must-Haves (Keep these at the top of bag)
Original Passport: The exact one used to book your permit. No copies or photos are accepted by park rangers.
Cash (Soles): Small bills for tips, snacks, or souvenirs in Aguas Calientes.
Travel Insurance: Ensure your policy covers high-altitude trekking.
2. Clothing: Layer Up!
Footwear: Broken-in hiking boots or trail shoes with good grip.
Base Layers: Moisture-wicking t-shirts (synthetic or merino wool). Avoid cotton!
Outer Layers: A light fleece or insulated jacket and a 100% waterproof rain jacket or poncho.
Pants: Quick-drying trekking pants (convertibles are great).
Accessories: A sun hat, a warm beanie for early mornings, and a Buff or neck gaiter.
Evening Wear: Lightweight shoes (sandals or sneakers) and a fresh change of clothes for your hotel and Day 2 at the citadel.
3. Trail Gear & Protection
Hydration: Reusable bottles or a bladder (at least 2 Liters total).
Sun & Bug Defense: High-SPF sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a strong insect repellent (essential for the cloud forest).
Energy: Trail mix, energy bars, or chocolate to keep your stamina up between meals.
Trekking Poles: Highly recommended for the stone steps. Note: Must have rubber tips to protect the Inca stones.
4. Personal Care & Tech
Medication: Personal prescriptions and altitude sickness pills (consult your doctor).
Hygiene: Hand sanitizer, lip balm, and mountain gold (toilet paper/biodegradable wipes).
Power: A portable power bank to ensure your phone or camera is ready for the Sun Gate reveal.
Pro Packing Tips
The 30L Rule: If it doesn't fit in a standard daypack, you probably don't need it.
Waterproofing: Even the best bags can leak. Line your pack with a large plastic bag or use dry bags for your electronics and passport.
Leave it Behind: We recommend leaving heavy jewelry, bulky laptops, and excessive toiletries at your hotel in Cusco.
Book Your Adventure: Moray Maras, Salt mine & Machu Picchu l 2-Day & 1-Night
Because permits are strictly limited by the Peruvian government, we recommend booking 3–4 months in advance to secure your preferred dates.
Group Expedition Pricing
Small-group settings that foster friendship and deeper discovery.
Adults $520 Per Person.
A minimum of 2 people is required to depart.
An Exclusive Expedition: Looking for a Private encounter with Incan history?
$650 per person: For 2-3 people
$600 per person: For 4-5 people
$550 per person: For 6-7 people
$495 per person: For 8+ People
Why Book with Qoricancha Expeditions?
● Instant Permit Confirmation: We secure your legal permits immediately upon booking. ● No Hidden Fees: Your price includes trains, buses, transfers, and 3-star hotels. ● Support Local: Your booking supports our community library project in Chinchero.
Secure Your Spot Today
Own the experience, not the planning. Secure your permit for the Sun Gate and let our local team bridge the gap between the Salt Mines and the Citadel, so your only job is to be present.
WhatsApp: +51 981 345 935 Email: info@qoricanchaexpeditions.com Find us on Facebook: Qoricancha Expeditions Peru
The peak season is April through September when skies are clear and the Andes are
most vibrant. Please note the trail is closed every February for government maintenance.
Yes. You must bring the original passport used for your booking. It must be valid for
6 months beyond your travel date. Copies or digital photos will not be accepted at checkpoints.
Acclimatization is the key to a happy trek. We strongly recommend arriving in Cusco
(3,399m) at least 2–3 days before your hike. Drink plenty of water and try the local coca tea!
There is no official limit. We typically welcome children aged 10+ and active older adults. We
recommend that anyone with underlying health conditions consult a doctor before booking.
Think in layers. You’ll need moisture-wicking base layers, a fleece, a waterproof jacket (or
poncho), and broken-in hiking boots. Don't forget a sun hat and a warm beanie for the morning!
Yes! This is an optional add-on for Day 2 and it requires a specific permit that sells out
fast, let us know immediately if you want to add this to your adventure.
Related Tours
Other adventures our travellers combine with this trip: hand-picked Machu Picchu tours, Inca Trail treks and Andean journeys led by the same local team.
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2-Day Sacred Valley tour to Machu Picchu
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Train Tours to Machu Picchu: Sunset & Sunrise
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Machu Picchu Full Day Tour from Cusco (All-Inclusive)
We had a wonderful couple of days on this trip. The trek on the first day was fab- 500-600m of ascent through jungle with orchids and other exotic plants. Chef prepared lunch on the mountain was a lovely surprise. Our guide, Aldo, was charming, amenable and knowledgeable. Arriving at the sun gate for the first view of Machu Picchu was amazing . And great to have the opportunity to return on the second day to visit close up and learn more about the site.
Kng M
Like friends giving the best tour
there are many operators for this tour itinerary but we are glad we chose Qoricancha Expeditions. Ronaldo is quick in responding to our queries, helped to arrange airport transfer for us and always checking on us. Our guide Simon took good care of us and is very patient and encouraging during our hikes. They are like friends giving us the best tour. highly recommend!
Kerry M
Amazing!
Amazing! We booked our short Inca Trail hike with Qoricancha Expeditions, and it was a great experience. Upon booking online, we were immediately contacted via email to confirm our details. Ronaldo and our guide, Simon, met with us the day before our departure to provide an overview and set expectations. Simon was a great guide - very personable and knowledgeable. I appreciate that he grew up in the area and speaks the native language (in addition to Spanish and English). The climb was difficult for me, but Simon was very patient and encouraging. I observed some of the other companies rushing their groups. We did not feel that way and had adequate time to enjoy. I highly recommend booking with Qoricancha Expeditions!
Ana Lucia V
Amazing 2 day Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Tour
Our 2 day Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour was amazing and everything ran smoothly from start to finish. We began in the Sacred Valley by visiting a local alpaca farm, where we saw llamas, alpacas, a condor and even guinea pigs. This fun and unique stop helped us appreciate Andean culture even more.
Next, we visited Pisac an impressive Inca site high in the mountains. The views were stunning and our guide Victor made the visit special with his knowledge and clear explanations about the site's history and importance. His passion made the ruins feel alive.
After that, we had a tasty buffet lunch at a local restaurant in Urubamba. In the afternoon we explored Ollantaytambo, a beautiful Inca town with huge stone terraces and an interesting history. Later, we took the train to Aguas Calientes and stayed overnight at La Jaya Machu Picchu Hotel. The hotel was very comfortable and even had a jacuzzi, which was a great way to relax before our visit to Machu Picchu.
On the second day, we visited Machu Picchu. It was cloudy at first, but after waiting a bit, the weather cleared and we got amazing views of the citadel. Victor was patient and gave us a great walking tour, explaining the history, architecture and mysteries of Machu Picchu in detail.
In the afternoon, we took the 1:30 pm train back to Ollantaytambo, where our driver Juan met us at the station. He drove us safely back to our hotel in Cusco, making the trip back simple and stress-free.
This tour was well organized, informative and truly unforgettable. Thank you to Qoricancha Expeditions Victor, Juan and the whole team for giving us such a great experience. They are professional, friendly and we highly recommend them.
ES