Machu Picchu Full Day Tour from Cusco
- Cusco
- Ollantaytambo
- Machu Picchu Pueblo
- Machu Picchu
Easy
Group/ private
Group/ private
All years
1 day
bus / tren
Overview
The Machu Picchu Full Day Tour is the perfect experience for travelers with limited time who don’t want to miss the opportunity to visit one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Departing early from Cusco, you’ll travel through the Sacred Valley by car and train, enjoying spectacular Andean landscapes along the way.
Once in Aguas Calientes, you’ll take a bus up the mountain to the entrance of Machu Picchu, where a certified guide will lead you through the mysteries and marvels of this ancient Inca city. After your guided tour, you’ll have time to explore, relax, or enjoy lunch in the town before returning to Cusco in the evening.
This is a hassle-free, fully organized tour that includes all transportation, entrance tickets, and guiding—ideal for solo travelers, couples, and families.
Tour Summary: Machu Picchu Full Day Tour from Cusco
Make the most of your time in Cusco with this Machu Picchu Full Day Tour, perfect for travelers on a tight schedule who still want to experience the magic of the Inca citadel in just one day. Travel by train through the scenic Sacred Valley, enjoy a guided exploration of Machu Picchu, and return to Cusco by evening — all in comfort and without stress. Ideal for solo travelers, couples, and families.
Duration: Full Day (Approx. 15–16 hours)
Start/End: Cusco – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Departure: Daily, early morning
Type: Cultural / Historical
Travel Style: Train-based tour with local guide
Best Season: Year-round
Highlights
- Visit the legendary Machu Picchu in just one day
- Travel by panoramic Vistadome or Expedition train
- Learn from expert guides about Inca history and architecture
- Hassle-free, door-to-door service from Cusco
- Perfect for travelers with limited time
Itinerary at a Glance
04:00 – 05:00 AM: Hotel pick-up in Cusco and transfer to train station (Ollantaytambo or Poroy)
06:00 – 08:00 AM: Scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes
08:00 – 09:00 AM: Bus ride up to Machu Picchu
09:00 – 11:30 AM: Guided tour of Machu Picchu, exploring temples, terraces, and sacred sites
12:00 – 14:00 PM: Free time to explore or have lunch in Aguas Calientes
14:00 – 16:00 PM: Return train to Ollantaytambo
16:30 – 19:00 PM: Private transport back to your hotel in Cusco
Machu Picchu Full Day Itinerary – Detailed Description
Your adventure begins early in the morning with a hotel pickup in Cusco between 4:00 and 5:00 AM, depending on your train schedule. You’ll be driven through the scenic landscapes of the Sacred Valley to the train station in Ollantaytambo. From there, you’ll board a comfortable train (Expedition or Vistadome, depending on your package) for a breathtaking journey along the Urubamba River, surrounded by towering green mountains and remote villages.
Upon arrival at Aguas Calientes, our staff will greet you and escort you to the bus station, where you’ll take a short 25-minute ride up to Machu Picchu, the majestic Inca citadel nestled in the Andean cloud forest. Once at the entrance, your certified English-speaking guide will lead you on a fascinating 2 to 3-hour walking tour, exploring the most iconic areas of the site such as the Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana, the Main Plaza, agricultural terraces, and more. You’ll learn about the incredible engineering, spiritual significance, and mysteries that still surround this World Heritage Site.
After the guided tour, you’ll have some free time to take photos or simply soak in the incredible views of the mountains and ruins. Then, you’ll descend back to Aguas Calientes by bus. If your package includes lunch, you’ll enjoy a meal at a local restaurant in town. Otherwise, you can take time to explore the small market, grab a coffee, or relax before boarding your return train to Ollantaytambo.
In the evening, a private vehicle will be waiting at the train station to transfer you back to your hotel in Cusco. The estimated arrival time is between 8:00 and 10:00 PM, depending on train schedules. After a full day of exploration, you’ll return with unforgettable memories of one of the most spectacular destinations in South America — the magical Machu Picchu.
What’s Included
- ✔ Hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco
- ✔ Private transport to and from Ollantaytambo train station
- ✔ Round-trip train tickets (Expedition or Vistadome)
- ✔ Round-trip bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
- ✔ Machu Picchu entrance ticket
- ✔ Guided tour of Machu Picchu with a certified English-speaking guide
- ✔ Assistance from our team throughout the journey
- ✔ All taxes and booking fees included
What’s Not Included
- ✖ Meals and drinks (unless specified in your package)
- ✖ Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- ✖ Tips for guides, drivers, and local staff
- ✖ Personal expenses (snacks, souvenirs, etc.)
- ✖ Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (available upon request with extra cost)
Recommendations
- ✔ Bring your passport – required for train and site entry
- ✔ Wear comfortable walking shoes – the terrain is uneven
- ✔ Pack a light jacket or raincoat – weather can change quickly
- ✔ Use sunblock, sunglasses, and a hat – sun exposure is strong
- ✔ Bring a refillable water bottle – staying hydrated is key
- ✔ Carry some cash (Peruvian soles) for snacks or tips
- ✔ Keep your train and entrance tickets in a safe, accessible place
- ✔ Bring a small daypack – large backpacks are not allowed inside Machu Picchu
Frequently Asked Questions – Machu Picchu Full Day Tour
What time does the tour start and end?
The tour begins early in the morning, typically between 4:00 and 5:00 AM, with a hotel pick-up in Cusco. You’ll be transferred to the train station in Ollantaytambo or Poroy. The return to Cusco is generally between 8:00 and 10:00 PM, depending on the train schedule selected for your return.
Is the train ticket included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip train tickets are included. Depending on the package, you’ll travel in either the Expedition Train or the Voyague Train, both offering scenic views of the Sacred Valley.
What type of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour includes a mix of private and public transportation:
- Private transfer from Cusco to the train station (Ollantaytambo or Poroy)
- Train ride to Aguas Calientes
- Shuttle bus to the Machu Picchu entrance
All transport is safe, comfortable, and efficiently organized.
Is a guide included in the tour?
Yes. A certified English-speaking guide is included for a 2 to 3-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu, covering history, architecture, and key archaeological sites. Private guide upgrades are available.
What should I bring on the tour?
We recommend bringing:
- Your original passport
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Reusable water bottle
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Cash for meals or souvenirs
A small daypack is also useful.
Can I visit Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
Yes, both are optional hikes that require a separate entrance ticket. Tickets are limited and must be requested in advance at the time of booking.
Are meals included?
Meals are not included by default, but some packages may offer lunch in Aguas Calientes. You’ll also have time to eat at a local restaurant of your choice. Check your package for details.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is suitable for most ages. While it involves walking, the pace is manageable. Children and older adults are welcome, provided they’re comfortable with moderate physical activity.
Do I need to be physically fit for this tour?
A moderate level of fitness is recommended. You’ll be walking over uneven surfaces, stairs, and inclines at high altitude, so comfortable footwear and light conditioning are helpful.
Can I cancel or reschedule the tour?
Yes, but changes are subject to our terms and cancellation policy. Train tickets and Machu Picchu entries are non-refundable after confirmation. We recommend reviewing the policy or contacting us before making changes.
💲 Tour Prices – Machu Picchu Full Day Tour from Cusco
Discover our competitive and flexible pricing options for the Machu Picchu Full Day Tour. Whether you’re traveling on a budget or looking for a premium experience, we offer different train categories and optional upgrades to suit your style. All packages include transportation, entrance fees, and a professional guided visit to Machu Picchu. Prices are per person and based on group service, with the option to upgrade to a private tour.
- 🚆 Expedition Train (Standard Option) $289.00
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- 🚆 Vistadome Train (Panoramic Option) $359.00
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- 🚆 Vistadome Observatory (Premium Option) $429.00
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