1-Day Machu Picchu Tour From Cusco, Peru

Exploring Machu Picchu in a single day may seem daunting, but this tour from Cusco promises an unforgettable experience. Travelers embark on scenic train rides, tour the iconic site’s highlights, and enjoy free time in Aguas Calientes – all in a convenient, all-inclusive package. With its exceptional value and comprehensive itinerary, this tour offers a unique opportunity to discover one of the world’s most renowned archaeological wonders. What else can this captivating journey entail?

Key Points

• Comprehensive one-day tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu, including transportation, train tickets, entrance fees, and a private guided exploration of the site.
• Scenic Vistadome train ride through Andean valleys and along the Urubamba River to reach Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.
• Guided tour of Machu Picchu’s highlights, such as the solar clock, main plaza, and Temple of Three Windows.
• Free time in Aguas Calientes to visit hot springs or explore local shops and restaurants.
• Tour not suitable for travelers with certain medical conditions or mobility issues, and includes a total duration of 18 hours.

Tour Overview

With a full-day trip from Cusco, travelers can experience the iconic Machu Picchu. The journey begins with a scenic train ride through Andean valleys to Aguas Calientes.

Once there, a guided tour showcases Machu Picchu’s highlights, including the solar clock, main plaza, and Temple of Three Windows. Travelers will have free time to explore Aguas Calientes, perhaps visiting the hot springs or browsing local shops.

The tour includes all necessary transportation, train tickets, entrance fees, and a private guide to ensure a seamless and enriching experience at this renowned Inca citadel.

Inclusions

The 1-Day Machu Picchu Tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco, private transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, and VISTADOME TRAIN service from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (both inbound and outbound).

The tour also provides:

Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu, bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu, and a private tour guide in Machu Picchu.

• Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu

• Bus tickets between Aguas Calientes town and Machu Picchu

• A private tour guide in Machu Picchu

• Meals along the trip and additional tours in Cusco upon request

This comprehensive package ensures a seamless and unforgettable experience exploring the iconic Machu Picchu.

Itinerary

Early morning, the tour begins with pickup from accommodations in Cusco.

The group transfers to Ollantaytambo to board the Vistadome train for a scenic ride past Andean valleys and the Urubamba River.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, they’ll take a bus up to Machu Picchu. A guided exploration of the highlights follows, including the solar clock, main plaza, and Temple of Three Windows.

Afterward, there’s free time for personal exploration.

The group then returns to Aguas Calientes for lunch and leisure before the train back to Ollantaytambo and bus to Cusco, completing the 18-hour tour.

Additional Information

The tour duration spans 18 hours.

Travelers should come prepared with a waterproof jacket, especially from November to March, as well as sunscreen and bottled water.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but stroller access and infant seats are available.

It’s not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.

• Waterproof jacket (November to March)

• Sunscreen

• Bottled water

The tour is a private experience for your group only, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

Reviews and Pricing

2 reviews with a 5.0 rating based on traveler feedback highlight the positive experiences with this 1-Day Machu Picchu Tour.

Guests rave about the stunning scenery during the train ride and the comprehensive guided tour of Machu Picchu’s highlights.

The tour’s affordability and convenience, with hotel pickup, transportation, and entrance fees included, also receive praise.

At $1,000 per person, the tour offers excellent value, especially considering the personalized attention from the private guide.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can book with confidence.

Preparation Tips

Travelers embarking on this 1-Day Machu Picchu Tour should ensure they pack a few essential items to enhance their experience.

Travelers on a 1-Day Machu Picchu Tour should pack essential items to enhance their experience.

These include:

• A lightweight, waterproof jacket, especially during the November to March rainy season.

• High-SPF sunscreen and a hat to protect against the strong Andean sun.

• Comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes to navigate the uneven terrain of the ancient ruins.

Staying hydrated is also crucial, so packing a refillable water bottle is highly recommended.

With these preparation tips in mind, travelers can focus on fully immersing themselves in the magic of Machu Picchu.

Accessibility Considerations

While the 1-Day Machu Picchu Tour is an exhilarating experience, it’s important to consider accessibility when planning the trip.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers and infant seats are available. Travelers with back problems, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions may find the hilly terrain and long days challenging. Comfortable, sturdy footwear is essential.

The tour also requires significant walking and climbing, which may be difficult for some. Those with mobility issues should carefully consider their abilities before booking.

However, the tour can be customized to accommodate individual needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Weather Like During the Tour?

The weather can vary during the tour. Travelers are advised to bring a waterproof jacket, especially during the rainy season from November to March. The sunny, dry season from April to October generally provides more pleasant conditions for exploring Machu Picchu.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions, but it’s not recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions. Infants can join, and there are infant seats available.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the Machu Picchu tour from Cusco. However, meals along the trip are included, and there are opportunities to purchase food and refreshments in Aguas Calientes town.

Is Photography Allowed Inside Machu Picchu?

Photography is allowed inside Machu Picchu, though visitors can’t use tripods or selfie sticks. They’re advised to avoid flash photography to preserve the site’s ancient structures. Capturing the stunning scenery and ruins is a memorable part of the Machu Picchu experience.

What Happens in Case of an Emergency During the Tour?

In case of an emergency, the tour operator will notify authorities and provide first aid assistance if needed. Participants are also encouraged to purchase travel insurance to cover any unexpected medical expenses or trip interruptions.

The Sum Up

The 1-Day Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco offers an unforgettable adventure that combines scenic train rides through the Andean valleys with a guided exploration of the iconic Machu Picchu. Travelers will enjoy the comfort of VISTADOME trains, a comprehensive tour of Machu Picchu’s highlights, and free time in Aguas Calientes, providing exceptional value for an incredible journey to one of the world’s most renowned archaeological sites.