Machu Picchu Full Day by Train
Our Machu Picchu full day tour takes you by train through the Sacred Valley to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Moreover, it includes a professional guide and all transfers organized.
More than a trip, a connection with our history
Summary
Discover the Inca citadel on a Machu Picchu full day tour designed to make the most of your time in Cusco. The sanctuary is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and, therefore, one of the most visited places in South America.
To begin, you travel by train through the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba River canyon to Aguas Calientes. Then you take the bus up to the citadel, where a professional guide accompanies you along the official circuits. During the visit, your guide introduces you to the history, architecture and mysteries of the Inca civilization.
This Machu Picchu full day tour is ideal for travelers with limited time. However, if you prefer a calmer visit, you can choose an overnight in Aguas Calientes, or even add Huayna Picchu to climb the mountain behind the citadel.
Highlights
Itinerary
04:30 - 05:00
Hotel pickup in Cusco
We pick you up at your hotel and transfer you to the train station.
Our team picks you up at your hotel in the historic center at the scheduled time. Then you travel by tourist transportation to Ollantaytambo, where your train journey to Machu Picchu begins.
05:00 - 06:30
Transfer to Ollantaytambo
Tourist transportation through the Sacred Valley.
The route crosses the Chinchero plateau and then descends into the Sacred Valley. When you arrive at Ollantaytambo station, we hand you your tickets and explain the boarding procedure.
06:30 - 08:00
Train journey to Aguas Calientes
Panoramic ride through the Urubamba River canyon.
Board the train and enjoy views of mountains, snow-capped peaks, terraces and cloud forest vegetation while you follow the Urubamba River on the way to Aguas Calientes.
08:00 - 09:00
Bus to Machu Picchu
Bus ride from Aguas Calientes up to the citadel.
In Aguas Calientes, your guide meets you and accompanies you to the bus. Next, the bus climbs the Hiram Bingham road to the entrance of the Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary.
09:00 - 11:30
Guided tour of Machu Picchu
Explore temples, plazas, terraces and viewpoints with your guide.
Discover the history of Machu Picchu as you visit its most important sectors according to your assigned circuit. Meanwhile, your guide explains the function, symbolism and architecture of the citadel.
11:30 - 14:30
Free time in Aguas Calientes
Take the bus down and enjoy free time for lunch.
After the visit, you take the bus down to Aguas Calientes. Then you have free time to have lunch, browse the artisan market or stroll around town before your return train.
14:30 - 20:00
Return to Cusco
Train to Ollantaytambo and transfer to your hotel in Cusco.
Board your return train and enjoy the landscapes of the Sacred Valley once again. Finally, in Ollantaytambo our transportation is waiting to take you back to your hotel in Cusco.
Include
What does it include?
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco
- Tourist transportation Cusco - Ollantaytambo - Cusco
- Round-trip tourist train tickets (Expedition or Vistadome)
- Round-trip bus to Machu Picchu
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- Professional English-speaking or Spanish-speaking guide
- Permanent assistance during the tour
What's not included?
- Breakfast and lunch
- Drinks and personal expenses
- Tips for guides and staff
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain
- Upgrade to the Hiram Bingham train
- Travel insurance
Important information
What to bring
Comfortable layered clothing
Rain jacket or waterproof poncho
Sunscreen and insect repellent
Hat or cap
Water and snacks
Valid passport or identification document
Weather
The weather in Machu Picchu is generally mild and variable. However, rain can occur throughout the year, especially from November to March, so we recommend bringing a light waterproof jacket.
Best season
Machu Picchu can be visited throughout the year. From April to October there is usually less rainfall and clearer skies, while the rainy season offers greener landscapes and fewer visitors.
Recommendations
Spend at least one day in Cusco before the tour to help your body adjust to the altitude. Also, large backpacks, food and drones are not allowed inside the sanctuary. In addition, the visit must always be made with a guide following the assigned circuit.
Gallery
FAQ
How far in advance should I book this tour?
We recommend booking the Machu Picchu full day tour at least two to four weeks in advance, especially during the high season from May to September, because entrance tickets are limited and may sell out.
Can I visit Huayna Picchu during this tour?
Yes, but Huayna Picchu requires a separate entrance ticket and advance reservation. Since availability is limited, please contact us before booking if you would like to include it.
What type of train is included?
The tour includes an Expedition or Vistadome tourist train. However, the exact train company and schedule may vary according to availability at the time of booking. An upgrade to the luxury Hiram Bingham train is also possible.
What happens if it rains?
The tour operates in most weather conditions. Even so, we recommend bringing waterproof clothing or a rain poncho during the rainy season.
Do I need to bring my passport?
Yes. You must bring the original passport or identification document used to make your reservation, because it is required to board the train and enter Machu Picchu.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes. Families with children can join the tour, although parents should consider the early departure time, the length of the day and the stairways inside the citadel.
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