3 day Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour with last minute booking

3 day tour to Machu Picchu including the exploration of the Sacred Valley with its main archaeological sites.

3 Days / 2 Nights
Home » Tours in Peru » Machu Picchu Tours » 3 day Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour with last minute booking
Altitude
2,400 m / 7,874 ft
Altitude
2,400 m / 7,874 ft
Accommodation
2 to 5 stars
Departures
Daily departures

DESCRIPTION OF THE TRIP

Due to the high demand and the limited daily spaces to enter Machu Picchu, we have created the perfect alternative for travelers who arrive in Cusco with little time but a strong desire to experience this wonder.

Our 3-Day Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Tour – Last-Minute Option is specially designed so you don’t miss the chance to visit this World Wonder, even if you couldn’t purchase your ticket in advance.

This program combines the best of the Sacred Valley of the Incas with the possibility of personally securing your entrance ticket to Machu Picchu one day before. We guide you through the entire process, making it simple, clear, and stress-free.

The Ministry of Culture is the official entity in charge of selling Machu Picchu entrance tickets. For this last-minute option, the purchase must be made in person in the town of Aguas Calientes on the day before your visit.

  • The ticket purchase must be done in person.
  • Sales are made only at the official office in Aguas Calientes.
  • The ticket must be acquired the day before your visit to Machu Picchu.

We will accompany and assist you throughout this additional process so that you can focus solely on enjoying your trip. Below, you will find the detailed itinerary.

PROGRAM SUMMARY

Day 01

Cusco / Sacred Valley / Aguas Calientes

Departure from Cusco in tourist transport, visit to the archaeological sites of Pisac and Ollantaytambo, train ride to Aguas Calientes, and purchase of Machu Picchu entrance ticket at the Ministry of Culture.

Day 02

Aguas Calientes / Free Day

Free day to make the most of your time by visiting the hot springs, butterfly garden, orchid garden, and other local attractions.

Day 03

Aguas Calientes / Machu Picchu / Cusco

In the morning, according to the entry time assigned on your ticket, you will take the bus up to Machu Picchu for a complete guided tour. After exploring, return by bus to Aguas Calientes, then board the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by the final transfer to your hotel in Cusco. The ticket allows you to tour one of the authorized circuits within the citadel.

TRAVEL ITINERARY

DAY 01: CUSCO + PISAC + URUBAMBA + OLLANTAYTAMBO + AGUAS CALIENTES

  • We will start the tour from your hotel in Cusco to enjoy a full excursion to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Throughout the day, we will visit:
  • We will explore the famous Pisac handicraft market, ideal for buying textiles, silver jewelry, and ceramics. Then, we will visit its archaeological site with terraces, temples, and panoramic views of the valley.
  • We continue to Urubamba, the heart of the Sacred Valley, where we will enjoy a buffet lunch with local and international dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.
  • In the afternoon, we visit Ollantaytambo, one of the last living Inca towns, with its impressive fortress of terraces and temples. We will also walk through its charming cobblestone streets and original water channels.
  • After the visit in Ollantaytambo, we will board the train to Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival, our guide will take you to the Ministry of Culture to purchase the Machu Picchu entrance ticket for the second or third day (depending on availability).
    • Meals: Buffet lunch.
    • Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes.
  • After breakfast at your hotel in Aguas Calientes, you will coordinate with your guide the entrance time to Machu Picchu for the following day, according to the ticket already purchased.
  • The rest of the day will be free to enjoy this charming Andean town, the gateway to Machu Picchu. You can relax, walk through its streets, or choose from the following optional activities:
    • Aguas Calientes Hot Springs: Relax in their medicinal waters surrounded by green mountains.
    • Machu Picchu Butterfly House: A conservation center where you can observe different butterfly species and learn about their importance in the ecosystem.
    • Botanical Garden and Orchid Garden: A natural space with more than 200 species of orchids and native plants from the region.
    • Manuel Chávez Ballón Site Museum: Displays archaeological pieces and explains the history and function of the Machu Picchu citadel.
    • Mandor Waterfall: A gentle hike through lush vegetation leading to a beautiful waterfall.
  • This free day in Aguas Calientes is ideal to rest, enjoy the local cuisine, and prepare for your big visit to Machu Picchu.
    • Meals: Breakfast.
    • Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes.
  • After breakfast, and according to the entry time assigned on your ticket, we will board the bus that takes you on a 25-minute ride to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
  • There, you will begin a guided tour of this majestic Inca citadel, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World. During the visit, our guide will provide historical, cultural, and archaeological insights as you explore the most iconic areas of the site.
  • Important: Your entry time to Machu Picchu is determined by the ticket purchased the day before; therefore, the start of the tour will follow that schedule. We recommend being ready in advance to make the most of your visit.
  • After the experience, you will take the bus back to Aguas Calientes to board the train returning to Ollantaytambo. From there, we will transfer you by tourist vehicle to your hotel in Cusco.
Note: The entrance ticket will grant access to one of the circuits available at the time of purchase.
    • Meals: Breakfast.

INCLUDES – NOT INCLUDED – DETAILS

Includes

Accommodation with Breakfast Included
  • 2 nights in a hotel in Aguas Calientes
Guided Tours and Activities (Spanish/English)
  • Sacred Valley Tour
  • Machu Picchu Tour | Private Service
Transportation and Entrance Tickets Included
  • Machu Picchu entrance ticket (To be obtained in person at the Ministry of Culture in Aguas Calientes).
  • Tourist train: Ollantaytambo > Aguas Calientes
  • Tourist bus: Aguas Calientes > Machu Picchu > Aguas Calientes
  • Tourist train: Aguas Calientes > Ollantaytambo
Private Transfers
  • To and from the train station in Cusco and Ollantaytambo
Included Meals
  • 02 breakfasts included.
Advantages of this Experience with Illa Kuntur Travel & Wellness
  • 24/7 assistance in Spanish and English
  • Professional guides for all activities
  • Bilingual service upon prior request
  • Personal concierge service to assist you throughout your trip
IMPORTANT:
  • Illa Kuntur Travel & Wellness is not responsible for train delays or unforeseen events beyond our control. We assist you in the ticket purchase process, but we cannot complete the procedure on your behalf.
  • Last-minute reservations depend on the daily availability provided by the Ministry of Culture in Aguas Calientes.

It is essential that you follow the instructions of our travel agents or guide during the ticket purchase process in Aguas Calientes to ensure your entry to Machu Picchu.

Flights:
  • Domestic and international flights.
Personal expenses:
  • Personal expenses such as shopping, tips, and additional activities.
Meals not specified:
  • Lunches and dinners not mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Additional travel insurance that covers cancellations, lost luggage, etc.
Personal equipment:
  • Personal equipment and any other items not specified.
Services not specified:
  • Any service not clearly mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Tips for guides, drivers, and service staff.
  • Travel insurance not included
  • It is important to bring your (ID, PASSPORT, FOREIGNER ID CARD).
  • ISIC card (if you are a student and wish to access a discounted price).
  • Sunscreen (SPF 35 or higher).
  • Comfortable jacket according to the season.
  • Rain poncho (recommended from October to April).
  • Comfortable walking shoes for Machu Picchu.
  • Insect repellent.
  • Sunglasses.
  • Cap or hat (Umbrellas are not allowed in Machu Picchu).
  • Extra money.
  • Bring cash, preferably in Peruvian soles, for last-minute purchases (some establishments accept card payments).

PeruRail Expedition

PeruRail’s most economical tourist service. It offers comfortable seats, large windows, and an atmosphere inspired by Inca culture, ideal for travelers seeking a practical option.

PeruRail Vistadome

Service with panoramic windows on walls and ceiling, allowing you to fully appreciate the landscape. Includes complimentary snacks and drinks, sometimes with dance shows and fashion parades.

PeruRail Vistadome Observatory

An exclusive and sophisticated train that adds an **observatory car** with balcony and live show to the Vistadome panoramic experience. Offers unparalleled views.

Inca Rail The Voyager

Inca Rail’s most economical tourist service. Offers a simple and authentic journey with comfortable seats and attentive service, celebrating the pleasure of discovery.

Inca Rail The 360°

Features taller and wider panoramic windows. Includes an open-air observatory car and onboard entertainment system, ideal for 360-degree views.

Inca Rail The Premium & Lounge

A luxury service offering maximum comfort and exclusivity. Enjoy spacious seating, live music, and a connection with authentic Peruvian cultural expressions.

Health Recommendations

  • Inform the agency and your doctor if you have heart or respiratory problems, high blood pressure, pregnancy, or any other chronic condition before doing demanding activities or those at high altitude.
  • It is recommended to prevent altitude sickness by following the agency’s indications (prior acclimatization, good hydration, avoiding intense physical effort and alcohol consumption during the first days).
  • Bring enough personal medication for the entire trip (regular treatments and, if necessary, a medical prescription).
  • Some destinations may have sudden weather changes between day and night; we recommend bringing light clothing for the daytime and warm layers for early morning and nighttime.
  • Avoid heavy meals and drink coca tea or muña tea to help your body adapt.

Travel Rules and Recommendations

  • Respect local regulations and always follow the guide’s instructions and the established circuits for the safety of the entire group.
  • During the trip, we recommend keeping your belongings in sight at all times and avoiding displaying large amounts of cash or high-value items.
  • In any risky situation or emergency, contact our team immediately or call the local emergency numbers.

TRAVEL PRICES

3-DAY MACHU PICCHU TOUR
Sacred Valley Tour + Machu Picchu 3 Days | Last-Minute Booking
Price Per Person - Minimum 2 people
GROUP SERVICE (No Hotel)
Tours + Entrance Tickets + Transfers + Private Guide in Machu Picchu
Voyager or Expedition Train
US$ 399.00
GROUP SERVICE
Tours + Entrance Tickets + Transfers + ⭐⭐ Hotels
In Aguas Calientes + Private Guide in Machu Picchu
Voyager or Expedition Train
US$ 449.00
GROUP SERVICE
Tours + Entrance Tickets + Transfers + ⭐⭐⭐ Hotels
In Aguas Calientes + Private Guide in Machu Picchu
Voyager or Expedition Train
US$ 469.00
PREMIUM SERVICE
Tours + Entrance Tickets + Transfers + ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Hotels
In Aguas Calientes + Private Guide for Sacred Valley Tour and Machu Picchu
Vistadome Panoramic Train
US$ 799.00

Special Rates

  • 1 person: Personalized quote
  • Groups of 3+ people: Group discount
  • Minors: Special discount

RECOMMENDED HOTELS

Recommended Tours for You

Here are similar options that are highly chosen by other travelers

Price from:
$ 399.00

3 day Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour with last minute booking

TOURS EN

Discover what others think and secure your experience