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
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, you’ll take a shuttle bus to the entrance of Machu Picchu, where a certified guide will lead you through the ancient Inca city, uncovering its history, architecture, and cultural significance. After the guided tour, you’ll have time to explore the citadel at your own pace, take photos, relax, or enjoy lunch in the town before returning to Cusco in the evening.
This hassle-free, fully organized tour includes all transportation, entrance tickets, and professional guiding, making it perfect for solo travelers, couples, and families seeking a seamless experience in the heart of the Inca Empire.
Tour Summary: Machu Picchu Full Day Tour from Cusco
Make the most of your time in Cusco with our Machu Picchu Full Day Tour, perfect for travelers on a tight schedule who 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. This tour is 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 certified guide
- Best Season: Year-round
Highlights
- Visit the legendary Machu Picchu in just one day, exploring its iconic Inca architecture and stunning surroundings.
- Travel by panoramic Vistadome or Expedition train through the scenic Sacred Valley with breathtaking mountain views.
- Learn from expert local guides about the rich history, culture, and architecture of the Inca Empire.
- Hassle-free, door-to-door service from Cusco including transportation, tickets, and guiding.
- Perfect for travelers with limited time, including solo travelers, couples, and families.
- Optional free time to take photos, enjoy the views, and explore hidden corners of Machu Picchu.
- Comfortable journey with scenic stops along the route and modern tourist transportation.
- Year-round availability for travelers seeking a cultural and historical adventure in Peru.
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
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 Sacred Valley to the train station in Ollantaytambo. From there, board a comfortable Expedition or Vistadome train 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 for a short 25-minute ride up to Machu Picchu, the majestic Inca citadel nestled in the Andean cloud forest. At the entrance, a certified English-speaking guide will lead you on a 2 to 3-hour walking tour, exploring iconic areas such as the Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana, the Main Plaza, agricultural terraces, and more. Learn about the incredible Inca engineering, spiritual significance, and mysteries that surround this World Heritage Site.
After the guided tour, enjoy free time to take photos or simply soak in the spectacular views of the mountains and ruins. Descend back to Aguas Calientes by bus. If your package includes lunch, enjoy a meal at a local restaurant in town, or 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 Cusco hotel. Estimated arrival 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 South America’s most spectacular destinations — 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
Machu Picchu Full Day Tour – Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the tour start and end?
The Machu Picchu Full Day Tour begins early in the morning, typically between 4:00 and 5:00 AM, with 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 journey.
Is the train ticket included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip train tickets are included in the tour. Depending on the package, you’ll travel on either the Expedition Train or the Vistadome Train, both offering panoramic views of the Sacred Valley during the journey to Aguas Calientes.
What type of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour includes a combination 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 well-organized.
Is a guide included in the tour?
Yes. A certified English-speaking guide is included for a 2 to 3-hour tour of Machu Picchu, covering history, architecture, and key archaeological sites. Private guide upgrades are available for a more personalized experience.
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 for essentials
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 when booking your tour.
Are meals included?
Meals are not included by default, but some packages offer lunch in Aguas Calientes. You’ll also have time to eat at a local restaurant of your choice. Please check your package details.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the Machu Picchu Full Day Tour is suitable for most ages. While it involves walking, the pace is manageable. Children and older adults can participate, provided they are comfortable with moderate physical activity.
Do I need to be physically fit for this tour?
A moderate level of fitness is recommended. You’ll walk 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, changes are possible but are subject to our terms and cancellation policy. Train tickets and Machu Picchu entrance tickets are non-refundable after confirmation. We recommend reviewing the policy or contacting us before making any changes.
💲 Machu Picchu Full Day Tour – Prices
Our Machu Picchu Full Day Tour from Cusco offers a fully organized experience with all transportation, entrance tickets, and certified guide services included. Choose the package that suits your preferences and budget:
- Standard Full Day Tour: $280 USD per person – Includes round-trip train tickets (Expedition Train), shuttle bus to Machu Picchu, guided tour, and hotel pickup in Cusco.
- Luxury Full Day Tour: $350 USD per person – Includes round-trip Vistadome Train tickets, upgraded seating, gourmet snacks, private guide option, and hotel pickup in Cusco.
- Private Full Day Tour: $450 USD per person – Fully personalized service with private vehicle transfers, dedicated certified guide, and exclusive access to Machu Picchu highlights.
Optional add-ons:
- Huayna Picchu hike: Additional $70 USD per person – Requires separate entrance ticket.
- Machu Picchu Mountain hike: Additional $70 USD per person – Requires separate entrance ticket.
Book your Machu Picchu Full Day Tour in advance to secure availability, especially during the peak season from May to September. Enjoy a hassle-free, unforgettable journey to one of the world’s most iconic destinations.
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