MACHU PICCHU BY TRAIN 2 DAYS

Discover the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu in just two days with this convenient train journey. Departing from Cusco, the tour offers a seamless experience, including round-trip transportation, train tickets, and a guided exploration of the UNESCO World Heritage site. From the scenic ride to the comprehensive tour, this compact itinerary packs a punch, ensuring you make the most of your time at one of the world’s most awe-inspiring destinations. Intrigued? Read on to uncover the details of this captivating Machu Picchu adventure.

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Key Points

This 2-day experience explores Machu Picchu by train, with round-trip transportation, train tickets, and a guided tour of the Inca archaeological site.
The first day includes the scenic journey from Cusco to Aguas Calientes with free time for lunch, followed by a group dinner and discussion about the next day’s plans.
On the second day, an early bus ride takes you to Machu Picchu for a guided tour, followed by free exploration time.
Accommodation is provided in Aguas Calientes, with only breakfast included on the second day, and lunch and dinner at local restaurants at an additional cost.
Optional hikes to Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain are available at an additional fee of $60 per person.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the 2-Day Machu Picchu Tour

The Machu Picchu by Train tour offers a comprehensive 2-day experience for visitors to explore the renowned Inca citadel. Priced from $403 per person, the tour includes round-trip transportation, train tickets, a guided tour of Machu Picchu, and one night’s accommodation in Aguas Calientes.

Day one takes travelers from Cusco to Ollantaytambo by bus, then by train to Aguas Calientes, where they’ll have free time for lunch and a group dinner.

On day two, an early bus ride leads to a guided tour of Machu Picchu, followed by free time to discover the site independently. An optional climb to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain is available.

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Itinerary Breakdown

As the tour’s itinerary unfolds, the first day takes travelers on a scenic journey from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, where they’ll board a train for the picturesque ride to Aguas Calientes.

Upon arrival, guests have free time for lunch before gathering for a group dinner and discussion about the next day’s plans.

The second day begins with an early bus ride to Machu Picchu, followed by a guided tour of the "Lost City of the Incas."

An early bus ride to Machu Picchu kicks off the second day, followed by a guided tour of the "Lost City of the Incas."

Afterward, travelers can explore the site independently, with the option to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.

The day concludes with the return journey to Cusco.

Accommodation and Transportation

Although the tour includes accommodation in Aguas Calientes, travelers should note that only one breakfast is provided on the second day.

For lunch and dinner on both days, local restaurants in Aguas Calientes are available at an additional cost.

The tour includes round-trip transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, a train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, and a shuttle bus to and from Machu Picchu.

The return journey involves a train ride from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, followed by a transfer back to Cusco.

Travelers are responsible for arranging their own flights and travel insurance.

Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

On the second day, travelers embark on the guided tour of Machu Picchu, the renowned Inca archaeological site.

The guided tour provides an in-depth exploration of the city’s neighborhoods, squares, buildings, and astronomical observatories. Travelers follow a professional guide, who offers insights into the site’s history, architecture, and significance.

The tour covers the key landmarks, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the engineering feats and urban planning of the Incas.

After the guided tour, travelers enjoy free time to further explore Machu Picchu at their own pace and optionally climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.

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Optional Hikes to Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountains

After the guided tour of Machu Picchu, travelers can opt to further challenge themselves by climbing either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.

The Huayna Picchu hike takes around 2-3 hours up and 1.5 hours down, offering stunning views of Machu Picchu from above.

The Huayna Picchu hike rewards climbers with stunning views of Machu Picchu from above, taking around 2-3 hours up and 1.5 hours down.

The Machu Picchu Mountain hike is longer, taking 3-4 hours up and 2 hours down, but rewards climbers with a bird’s-eye view of the entire archaeological site.

Both treks require a good level of fitness and are considered moderately difficult. An additional fee of $60 per person applies for either hike.

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Meals and Dining

The tour includes breakfast on the second day, but lunches and dinner on both days are not provided. Guests are free to explore the local restaurants in Aguas Calientes for those meals. To help plan the dining experience, here is a table outlining some popular options:

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Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes accommodation in Aguas Calientes, a breakfast on the second day, transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, train tickets between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes, a shuttle bus to and from Machu Picchu, a train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, and a transfer from Ollantaytambo back to Cusco.

Accommodation in Aguas Calientes, transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, train tickets, shuttle bus, and transfers are included in the tour.

It also provides a guided tour of Machu Picchu with a professional guide.

However, the tour excludes breakfast on the first day, two lunches, dinner on the second day, international/national flights, travel insurance, and any other activities not mentioned.

Travelers are responsible for these additional expenses.

Historical Significance of Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is a renowned Inca archaeological site renowned for its remarkable urban design and distinctive architecture. Rediscovered in 1911 by Hiram Bingham, this "Lost City of the Incas" features various neighborhoods, squares, alleys, buildings, astronomical observatories, and terraces showcasing the advanced engineering and construction capabilities of the Inca civilization.

The site’s strategic location, meticulous planning, and harmonious integration with the natural landscape demonstrate the Incas’ sophisticated understanding of urban planning and their profound connection with the surrounding environment.

Machu Picchu stands as a testament to the ingenuity and cultural richness of the Inca Empire.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Travel Insurance Required for This Tour?

Travel insurance is not required for this tour, but it’s strongly recommended to protect against unexpected events, such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost/stolen belongings during the journey.

Can I Bring My Own Food to Machu Picchu?

Visitors can bring their own food to Machu Picchu, but it’s not included in the tour. There are local restaurants available for lunch in Aguas Calientes on both days. The tour provides 1 breakfast on day 2.

Do I Need a Special Permit to Climb Huayna Picchu?

Yes, you need a special permit to climb Huayna Picchu. The permits are limited and must be booked in advance. Climbing Huayna Picchu is an optional activity that costs an additional $60 per person.

Can I Take a Selfie Stick Into Machu Picchu?

Selfie sticks are not allowed inside Machu Picchu. Visitors are prohibited from using any kind of monopod, tripod, or selfie stick to take photos within the archaeological site. Leaving items at the entrance is recommended to avoid issues.

Is There Wi-Fi Available at the Hotel in Aguas Calientes?

The hotel in Aguas Calientes offers Wi-Fi, though its quality and availability may vary. Guests should check with the hotel staff for details on the Wi-Fi services provided during their stay.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Machu Picchu tour by train offers a convenient and comprehensive way to experience the wonder of this iconic Inca site. With round-trip transportation, guided exploration, and free time for independent discovery, it’s an ideal option for those seeking a hassle-free and immersive introduction to the captivating history and stunning natural beauty of Machu Picchu.

You can check availability for your dates here: