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Machu Picchu

Cusco and Machu Picchu - 1 Day

Duration1 Day
DifficultyEasy
Group sizeMax. 15

Overview

Is your dream to visit Machu Picchu? Make it come true with us! Can you imagine walking among the ruins of an ancient city, atop a mountain, with the Andes Mountains as your backdrop? That’s the magic of Machu Picchu, a place that transports you to the grandeur of the Inca Empire.

Is your dream to visit Machu Picchu? Make it come true with us!

Can you imagine walking among the ruins of an ancient city, atop a mountain, with the Andes Mountains as your backdrop? That’s the magic of Machu Picchu, a place that transports you to the grandeur of the Inca Empire.

General conditions

Passport Mandatory: You must bring your original, physical passport used at the time of booking. Photos or copies are not accepted by train operators or Machu Picchu park rangers.
Strict Schedule & Punctuality: Due to fixed train and entrance permit schedules starting with a 4:00 AM pickup, late arrivals or missed transfers cannot be rescheduled and will incur a 100% cancellation fee.
Non-Refundable Permits: Machu Picchu entry passes and train tickets issued by government and private authorities are strictly non-refundable and non-transferable under any circumstances.
Luggage Allowance: Train companies and the archaeological park enforce a maximum luggage limit of 5 kg (11 lbs) per person. Large luggage must remain in storage at your Cusco hotel.
Meal Exclusions: Lunch in Aguas Calientes and personal expenses are not included in the standard tour rate unless explicitly requested as an add-on.

Itinerary

•Cusco - Machu Picchu - Cusco

✨ Machu Picchu in 1 Day – Day Trip ✨

🚐 Departure from Cusco
At 4:00 a.m., we’ll pick you up at your hotel in Cusco and transfer you to the Ollantaytambo Train Station.

🚆 Train Ride to Aguas Calientes
At 6:10 a.m., we’ll board the scenic train bound for Aguas Calientes. During the trip, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Andes and the Sacred Valley.

🤝 Arrival in Aguas Calientes
Upon exiting the station, a host will be waiting to accompany you to the bus stop for the bus that goes up to the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.

🏞️ Guided Tour of Machu Picchu
On a guided tour lasting approximately 2 hours, we’ll explore the terraces, temples, and plazas of this Inca city, considered one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World.
The guide will share stories, interesting facts, and secrets of Inca engineering, making the experience unforgettable.

🍽️ Lunch on Your Own in Aguas Calientes
After the tour, return to Aguas Calientes with free time for lunch (not included) and relaxation.

🚆 Return Trip to Cusco
Arrive at the Aguas Calientes station at least 30 minutes in advance to board the return train. Enjoy the views of the Sacred Valley once again.

🚐 Arrival in Ollantaytambo and Transfer to Cusco
Upon arrival, your transfer will be waiting to take you back to Cusco, concluding the tour.

🏡 End of Tour in Cusco
Arrive at your hotel with unforgettable memories of Machu Picchu!

💡 Important Tip
This tour is recommended for those who don’t have time to stay overnight in Aguas Calientes.
For a more enjoyable and less tiring experience, we recommend staying overnight in Aguas Calientes the night before, so you can explore Machu Picchu at a more leisurely pace and with more energy.

What's included

Included

Transfer from Cusco to Ollantaytambo
Train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
Assistance at the Aguas Calientes station upon arrival
Bus ride up to the entrance of Machu Picchu
Professional bilingual guide at Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu admission ticket
Bus ride down from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
Return train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
Transfer from Ollantaytambo to Cusco
Transportation from Cusco upon arrival to your hotel

Not included

Meals
Flights: domestic and international
Personal expenses

What to bring

Stay overnight in Águas Calientes the night before visiting Machu Picchu
Bring personal identification (passport or ID card)
Students must bring a valid student ID from their current university
Sunscreen during sunny weather
Insect repellent for Machu Picchu
Raincoat during the rainy season
Appropriate clothing for cold weather
An extra battery for your camera
Purchase travel insurance
Portuguese-language guide service
Private tour
Buffet lunch at Machu Picchu
Vistadome Observatory Train (additional): Immersive experience with panoramic windows, background music, live dance, and traditional performances
Observation car with a bar and a balcony offering spectacular views
Additional cost: round trip US$ 94 or one-way US$ 79
Montanha Huayna Picchu (adicional): Challenging hike with breathtaking panoramic views
Limited availability; please book in advance
Additional cost: US$ 70

Frequently asked questions

How demanding is this 1-day trip from Cusco?

It is a full, fast-paced 14-to-15-hour excursion with early starts and multiple transfers (van, train, and bus). While the walking at the ruins is moderate, the long travel day can be tiring; guests looking for a more relaxed pace may prefer staying overnight in Aguas Calientes the day before.

What essential items should I pack in my daypack?

Bring your original physical passport, local cash (Peruvian Soles) for lunch and personal purchases, a reusable water bottle, rain gear or poncho, sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, and any daily personal medications.

Is lunch included during our time in Aguas Calientes?

Lunch is not included in the standard tour price. Following your guided tour of the citadel, you will have dedicated free time in Aguas Calientes to choose from a variety of local restaurants before heading to the train station.

Can I bring large suitcases on the train and into Machu Picchu?

No, large suitcases are strictly prohibited on both the tourist trains and inside the archaeological park. You must leave your primary luggage at your Cusco hotel (which typically provides secure storage free of charge) and carry only a small daypack.

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