We will start our Machu Picchu Full Day Tour early in the morning in Cusco. We will travel through the Sacred Valley before boarding the train. The train rides will show us breathtaking landscapes with mountains, rivers, and villages. We will feel excitement as we approach our long-awaited trip to Machu Picchu.
We shall arrive at Aguas Calientes and prepare for entering Machu Picchu with our tickets to Machu Picchu ready. A professional guide will join us for a complete guided tour of the Inca citadel. We will learn about its temples, terraces, and history in detail. Our Machu Picchu Tour Full experience will bring us closer to Andean culture.
We will explore the most impressive viewpoints that offer wide views of Machu Picchu. The tour guide will explain the importance of every section we visit. We will have free time to walk, take photos, and admire the energy of the citadel. This Machu Picchu Day Trip from Cusco will be unforgettable and enriching.
We will return to Aguas Calientes to catch the train back through the Sacred Valley. Boarding the train will give us another chance to enjoy beautiful scenery. Our entrance ticket, train tickets, and guidance will be fully organized months in advance. With Tikariy Machupicchu, this Picchu Tour Full Day will offer us the best way to discover Peru’s most iconic wonder.
Itinerary
This Machu Picchu Day Trip from Cusco will allow you to discover the best of the Andes in one day. With Tikariy Machupicchu, all tickets, transport, and guides are organized to ensure a complete and safe experience.
Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco
We begin very early with hotel pick-up in Cusco. Our private transport will take us on a 1 hour 30 minutes journey through the Sacred Valley, crossing beautiful Andean landscapes.
Train ride to Aguas Calientes
We arrive at Ollantaytambo station in the early morning and board the tourist train. The 1 hour 50 minutes ride offers panoramic views of valleys, rivers, and snowy peaks until we reach Aguas Calientes.
Bus ride up to Machu Picchu
In Aguas Calientes, our guide will meet us at the station. Together, we walk to the bus terminal and ascend for 25 minutes to reach the entrance of Machu Picchu.
Guided tour of Machu Picchu
With our tickets arranged in advance, we enter the citadel. The guided tour lasts 2 to 3 hours, visiting temples, terraces, and sacred plazas. The guide explains the history and legacy of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Free time in Machu Picchu & Aguas Calientes
After the tour, you’ll have free time to take photos, rest, and explore the citadel. Later, we descend by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch and a visit to local artisan shops.
Return to Cusco
In the afternoon, we board the return train to Ollantaytambo. From there, our private transport will take us back to Cusco and drop you off at your hotel in the evening.
Important Notes
- Distance traveled: 170 km (round trip)
- Maximum altitude: Cusco (3,399 m / 11,152 ft)
- Minimum altitude: Aguas Calientes (2,040 m / 6,693 ft)
- Altitude of Machu Picchu: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
- Total tour duration: approximately 12 to 14 hours
- Route: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
- Difficulty level: Easy to moderate
- Train schedules may vary depending on availability. Book in advance.
- It is recommended to bring a passport, comfortable clothing, sunscreen, water, and a camera.
- Visit subject to Machu Picchu entry availability (advance reservation required).
- Group price: USD 299 per person.
- Customizable tour: Upgrade train category or add services upon request.
What's included
- Pre-tour briefing one day before the trip, in Cusco.
- Personalized transfers from your hotel in Cusco to the train station in Ollantaytambo, round trip.
- Round-trip train ticket Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes.
- Round-trip bus ticket Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu.
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu (Main Circuit 2, subject to availability).
- Professional guided tour in English and Spanish. (Other languages available in private service, inquire).
Exclusions
- Hotel in Cusco.
- Meals.
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu (check availability).
- Other services not mentioned.
Remember these tips to better enjoy your trip, always carry with you:
- Wear light and comfortable clothing, ideal for walking.
- Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the Andean sun.
- During the rainy season, bring a poncho or raincoat.
- Bring water in a reusable bottle to stay hydrated.
- Always keep your ID or passport handy.
- Be ready ahead of time for transfers and follow the established schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Machu Picchu Full Day Tour take?
The tour lasts around 15 to 16 hours, starting early morning in Cusco and ending in the evening.
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transfers, round-trip train tickets, round-trip bus tickets, entrance ticket, and a professional guided tour.
Are meals included in the tour?
No, meals are not included. We will have free time in Aguas Calientes to buy lunch or snacks.
Do we need to book tickets to Machu Picchu in advance?
Yes, tickets to Machu Picchu must be reserved months in advance due to high demand.
What is the altitude difference during the tour?
Cusco is at 3,399 m (11,152 ft), while Machu Picchu is at 2,430 m (7,972 ft).
Can we climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain on this day trip?
No, this tour does not include Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain entrances. These require separate tickets and more time.
What should we bring for the tour?
We should bring our passport, tickets, comfortable shoes, water, snacks, sun protection, insect repellent, and a rain jacket.
Is the Machu Picchu Full Day Tour physically demanding?
The tour is easy to moderate. We will walk up and down uneven stone paths and stairs inside the citadel.
What train services are available?
We may travel on Expedition or Voyager trains. Premium upgrades like Vistadome are available upon request.
Is the tour suitable for children and seniors?
Yes, the Machu Picchu Day Trip from Cusco is suitable for all ages, with some walking involved.
Reviews
Our Machu Picchu Full Day Tour with Tikariy Machupicchu was perfectly organized. From hotel pickup to train tickets, everything was smooth. The professional guide gave us an amazing tour of the Inca citadel. The views of Machu Picchu were unforgettable.
