This 2-day, 1-night trip is a wonderful way to experience Machu Picchu. We start by taking you from your hotel in Cusco to the train station for a comfortable ride through the valley down to the town of Aguas Calientes. After you get settled into your hotel, you have the afternoon free to relax or explore, followed by an evening meeting with your guide [if you’ve booked one] to prepare for the next day. On the second morning, you’ll travel up to Machu Picchu early (either by bus or by walking the path) to begin your visit of the spectacular ruins. Once your tour is complete, you return to Aguas Calientes, have some time for lunch, and then catch the train for your smooth journey back to Cusco.
Itinirary
Day 1:
Cusco – Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town) Your trip starts with a pick-up from your accommodation in Cusco and a transfer to the train station. Depending on train availability, your departure may be from Cusco (San Pedro or Poroy Station) or from Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley. Enjoy the train ride along the Urubamba River, passing through valleys, mountains, and cloud forests until you reach Aguas Calientes, the town located at the base of Machu Picchu. Once you arrive, you’ll walk to your accommodation (standard hotel or shared hostel dorm, depending on your choice) and check in. The rest of the afternoon is free to explore. You can visit the local market, walk around town, or relax in the nearby hot springs. In the evening, you’ll have a short meeting with your guide (optional add-on) to review the plan for the visit to Machu Picchu the next morning.
Day 2:
Machu Picchu – Cusco After an early breakfast at your accommodation, you’ll start your journey to Machu Picchu. You can either take the bus (optional add-on) for a 25-minute ride up to the site or walk up, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours on a steep trail. At the entrance, you’ll meet your guide (optional add-on) if you’ve booked this service, and start exploring the citadel following your assigned circuit. You’ll visit the main areas such as the Temple of the Sun, Main Square, and Temple of the Three Windows, while learning about the history of the Inca civilization. After your visit, you can take some final photos or enjoy the views before returning to Aguas Calientes by bus (optional add-on) or on foot. You’ll have free time for lunch (not included) or to explore before boarding your train back to Ollantaytambo or Cusco. When you arrive, our team will be waiting to transfer you back to your accommodation in Cusco, marking the end of your Machu Picchu experience.
Tour Details
What to Pack Clothing
F&Q
Where does the train depart from, and how long is the ride?
The train might leave from Cusco (Poroy or San Pedro station) or from Ollantaytambo. Your exact departure station and time will be clearly specified on your final confirmation. From Cusco: Approximately 3.5 to 4 hours. From Ollantaytambo: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
What time do we enter Machu Picchu, and how long is the visit?
Your exact entrance time is assigned when the booking is made and will be clearly printed on your ticket. Most visits occur in the morning. The guided circuit lasts around 2 hours. You can then stay inside until you complete the circuit indicated on your ticket.
How much walking and what level of fitness is required?
The main physical effort is inside Machu Picchu where you will encounter stairs, slopes, and uneven paths during the guided visit. Comfortable shoes are highly recommended! Anyone with moderate fitness can comfortably do this tour. No intense trekking is required.
Can I visit Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
Yes! These have very limited spaces and must be booked well in advance. An extra cost applies for these treks.
Is the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu included?
No, the bus is usually an optional add-on. You can choose to take the bus (25–30 minutes) or walk (1.5–2 hours uphill).
Is a guide included in the tour?
Most tour packages DO include a professional guide for the 2-hour main circuit. However, a standard Machu Picchu entrance ticket does not include a guide. Please check your booking confirmation carefully. Private guides are always available for an extra cost.
Do I need to carry my luggage?
Yes, you will need to carry your own belongings. Train companies strictly limit large suitcases (you are usually only allowed a small backpack). Hotels in Cusco can typically store your larger luggage for free or for a small fee.
What kind of accommodation is included?
Accommodation in Aguas Calientes varies based on your package: Budget Option may include a bed in a hostel shared room (typically 4 to 8 beds). Standard Option is usually a basic or standard hotel with a private bathroom and hot water. Upgrades are always possible.
What meals are included?
Breakfast at your accommodation is included. Lunch and dinner are generally not included.
Are there ATMs, and are things expensive in Aguas Calientes?
ATMs: Yes, but they may run out of cash. It’s wise to bring enough Peruvian Soles from Cusco for small expenses. Prices: Prices for food, water, and basic items can be 3 to 4 times higher than in Cusco.
What is the altitude?
Cusco: $3,400\text{ m}$. Machu Picchu: $2,430\text{ m}$. Aguas Calientes: $2,040\text{ m}$. You will likely feel better in Aguas Calientes due to the lower elevation!
When is the rainy season, and what if it rains?
Rainy Season is generally November to March (heaviest in Jan/Feb). During Rain: The tour operates normally. Bring a rain jacket/poncho.
Are there bathrooms inside the site?
No. Bathrooms are available only at the entrance/exit. If you leave to use them, re-entry is NOT allowed. Please use them before entering!
Can I buy snacks or water inside Machu Picchu?
No. Food and drinks are not sold inside the archaeological site. Bring water and light snacks, but consume them outside the ruins area.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes. Families regularly visit. Children must be supervised due to stairs and uneven ground inside the ruins.
Can I stay longer in Aguas Calientes after the tour?
Yes! You can customize your return train to a later date, subject to availability and any price changes.
$ 340.00
Itinirary
Day 1:
Cusco – Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town) Your trip starts with a pick-up from your accommodation in Cusco and a transfer to the train station. Depending on train availability, your departure may be from Cusco (San Pedro or Poroy Station) or from Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley. Enjoy the train ride along the Urubamba River, passing through valleys, mountains, and cloud forests until you reach Aguas Calientes, the town located at the base of Machu Picchu. Once you arrive, you’ll walk to your accommodation (standard hotel or shared hostel dorm, depending on your choice) and check in. The rest of the afternoon is free to explore. You can visit the local market, walk around town, or relax in the nearby hot springs. In the evening, you’ll have a short meeting with your guide (optional add-on) to review the plan for the visit to Machu Picchu the next morning.
Day 2:
Machu Picchu – Cusco After an early breakfast at your accommodation, you’ll start your journey to Machu Picchu. You can either take the bus (optional add-on) for a 25-minute ride up to the site or walk up, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours on a steep trail. At the entrance, you’ll meet your guide (optional add-on) if you’ve booked this service, and start exploring the citadel following your assigned circuit. You’ll visit the main areas such as the Temple of the Sun, Main Square, and Temple of the Three Windows, while learning about the history of the Inca civilization. After your visit, you can take some final photos or enjoy the views before returning to Aguas Calientes by bus (optional add-on) or on foot. You’ll have free time for lunch (not included) or to explore before boarding your train back to Ollantaytambo or Cusco. When you arrive, our team will be waiting to transfer you back to your accommodation in Cusco, marking the end of your Machu Picchu experience.
Tour Details
What to Pack Clothing
F&Q
Where does the train depart from, and how long is the ride?
The train might leave from Cusco (Poroy or San Pedro station) or from Ollantaytambo. Your exact departure station and time will be clearly specified on your final confirmation. From Cusco: Approximately 3.5 to 4 hours. From Ollantaytambo: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
What time do we enter Machu Picchu, and how long is the visit?
Your exact entrance time is assigned when the booking is made and will be clearly printed on your ticket. Most visits occur in the morning. The guided circuit lasts around 2 hours. You can then stay inside until you complete the circuit indicated on your ticket.
How much walking and what level of fitness is required?
The main physical effort is inside Machu Picchu where you will encounter stairs, slopes, and uneven paths during the guided visit. Comfortable shoes are highly recommended! Anyone with moderate fitness can comfortably do this tour. No intense trekking is required.
Can I visit Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
Yes! These have very limited spaces and must be booked well in advance. An extra cost applies for these treks.
Is the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu included?
No, the bus is usually an optional add-on. You can choose to take the bus (25–30 minutes) or walk (1.5–2 hours uphill).
Is a guide included in the tour?
Most tour packages DO include a professional guide for the 2-hour main circuit. However, a standard Machu Picchu entrance ticket does not include a guide. Please check your booking confirmation carefully. Private guides are always available for an extra cost.
Do I need to carry my luggage?
Yes, you will need to carry your own belongings. Train companies strictly limit large suitcases (you are usually only allowed a small backpack). Hotels in Cusco can typically store your larger luggage for free or for a small fee.
What kind of accommodation is included?
Accommodation in Aguas Calientes varies based on your package: Budget Option may include a bed in a hostel shared room (typically 4 to 8 beds). Standard Option is usually a basic or standard hotel with a private bathroom and hot water. Upgrades are always possible.
What meals are included?
Breakfast at your accommodation is included. Lunch and dinner are generally not included.
Are there ATMs, and are things expensive in Aguas Calientes?
ATMs: Yes, but they may run out of cash. It’s wise to bring enough Peruvian Soles from Cusco for small expenses. Prices: Prices for food, water, and basic items can be 3 to 4 times higher than in Cusco.
What is the altitude?
Cusco: $3,400\text{ m}$. Machu Picchu: $2,430\text{ m}$. Aguas Calientes: $2,040\text{ m}$. You will likely feel better in Aguas Calientes due to the lower elevation!
When is the rainy season, and what if it rains?
Rainy Season is generally November to March (heaviest in Jan/Feb). During Rain: The tour operates normally. Bring a rain jacket/poncho.
Are there bathrooms inside the site?
No. Bathrooms are available only at the entrance/exit. If you leave to use them, re-entry is NOT allowed. Please use them before entering!
Can I buy snacks or water inside Machu Picchu?
No. Food and drinks are not sold inside the archaeological site. Bring water and light snacks, but consume them outside the ruins area.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes. Families regularly visit. Children must be supervised due to stairs and uneven ground inside the ruins.
Can I stay longer in Aguas Calientes after the tour?
Yes! You can customize your return train to a later date, subject to availability and any price changes.
Please fill out the form below and we will send you a personalised quote shortly.