From Cusco: Machu Picchu Full Day

Exploring the famed Inca citadel of Machu Picchu is a bucket-list item for many travelers visiting Peru. The "From Cusco: Machu Picchu Full Day" tour offers a convenient way to experience this wonder, with round-trip transportation, train rides, and a guided tour through the site’s key landmarks. While some customers have reported communication issues, the tour’s attentive guide, Yésica, seems to provide an excellent service. Those considering this excursion should weigh the pros and cons to determine if it’s the right fit for their Machu Picchu adventure.

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Key Points

A full-day group tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu, priced at $428 per person with a maximum of 15 participants.
Includes round-trip transportation, train rides, and a guided tour of key Machu Picchu sites.
Offers a choice between standard train or Vistadome train with panoramic views.
Despite positive feedback for the guide, the tour has an overall rating of 1 out of 5 due to customer complaints.
Thorough review of customer feedback and clear communication with the provider are recommended before booking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Machu Picchu Full Day tour offers an immersive experience of the iconic Inca citadel with a local guide. Priced from $428 per person, the full-day group excursion departs from Cusco.

The tour is limited to 15 participants and provides live guides in both Spanish and English. Flexibility is key, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a "reserve now, pay later" option.

The journey includes round-trip transportation, train rides, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu’s key sites. While meals aren’t included, 24-hour support is available in both languages.

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Travel Itinerary

Early morning, the tour group is picked up from their Cusco hotels and transferred to the train station.

They can choose between the standard train or the Vistadome train, which offers panoramic views of the Andes.

Upon arriving in Aguas Calientes, they’ll take a bus up to the Machu Picchu entrance.

A local guide leads them on a tour, showcasing key sites like the Qolqas, Agricultural Zone, and the Temple of the Sun.

After the tour, they return to Aguas Calientes for lunch recommendations before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo and transportation to their Cusco hotels.

Inclusions

The Machu Picchu full-day excursion includes round-trip transportation from one’s Cusco hotel to the train station.

The Machu Picchu full-day excursion includes round-trip transportation from one’s Cusco hotel to the train station.

Travelers can choose between the standard train or the Vistadome train for panoramic Andean views during the journey to Aguas Calientes.

From there, a bus takes visitors up to the Machu Picchu site. A local guide leads the tour, providing insights into the key landmarks like the Qolqas, Agricultural Zone, and Temple of the Sun.

After the guided exploration, the return trip includes transportation back to Ollantaytambo station and a transfer to one’s Cusco hotel.

Customer Feedback

According to customer feedback, the Machu Picchu full-day excursion received an overall rating of 1 out of 5 based on 2 reviews.

Customers commonly complained about lack of communication, missing tickets, and inadequate support during the trip.

However, one positive note was that the guide, Yésica, received praise for her excellent service.

It’s recommended to thoroughly review customer feedback before booking this tour, and ensure clear communication with the provider regarding pickup times and itinerary.

Travelers seeking flexibility may want to consider alternative arrangements.

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Recommendations

Upon reviewing the customer feedback, travelers may want to thoroughly examine comments before booking this Machu Picchu tour.

Ensure clear communication with the provider regarding pickup times and itinerary to avoid issues. If flexibility is crucial, consider alternative arrangements, as some customers reported problems with the tour.

While the guide Yésica received praise, overall reviews were poor, highlighting the need to research thoroughly.

Ultimately, weighing the potential risks and benefits based on personal preferences and priorities will be essential in deciding whether this tour is the right fit.

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Train Options

For those booking the Machu Picchu full-day tour, the train options to reach the historic site are an important consideration.

Travelers can choose between the standard train or the Vistadome train. The standard train provides basic transportation, while the Vistadome offers panoramic windows for stunning views of the Peruvian Andes.

Both trains depart from Ollantaytambo station and arrive in Aguas Calientes, the town below Machu Picchu. From there, a bus transports visitors up the winding road to the ruins.

The tour package includes round-trip train and bus tickets, ensuring a seamless journey to the iconic ancient citadel.

Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

What exactly does the guided tour of Machu Picchu entail?

The tour includes a guided exploration of Circuit 5, showcasing Machu Picchu’s iconic landmarks. Visitors will see the Qolqas, or storehouses, the Agricultural Zone, and the magnificent Temple of the Sun.

The guide, Yésica, provides expert commentary, bringing the ancient Inca citadel to life. Visitors can expect an immersive experience, learning about Machu Picchu’s history, architecture, and cultural significance.

The tour allows travelers to fully appreciate the grandeur and mystery of this UNESCO World Heritage site, leaving them with lasting memories of their time in the Andes.

Transportation and Logistics

The full-day Machu Picchu excursion begins with an early morning hotel pickup in Cusco, allowing travelers to board the train for the journey to the iconic Inca citadel. Travelers can choose between a standard train or the Vistadome train, which offers panoramic views of the Peruvian Andes.

| Train Option | Duration | Amenities |

| — | — | — |

| Standard Train | Approx. 3.5 hours | Basic seating |

| Vistadome Train | Approx. 3.5 hours | Panoramic windows, snacks, entertainment |

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, guests take a bus to the Machu Picchu entrance, where a local guide leads them through the ancient ruins. At the end of the tour, the group returns to Aguas Calientes for lunch before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo and transportation to their Cusco hotel.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Bring to Machu Picchu?

For Machu Picchu, it’s best to bring comfortable hiking shoes, sun protection, water, snacks, and layers to adapt to the changing weather. Avoid bringing large bags as they may not be allowed inside the site.

How Fit Do I Need to Be for the Hike?

You don’t need to be super fit for the Machu Picchu tour. It’s a guided experience, and the main hiking is on well-maintained paths. As long as you can comfortably walk for a few hours, you’ll be fine.

Can I Take My Own Food Into Machu Picchu?

You can bring your own food and snacks into Machu Picchu. However, the tour doesn’t include food, so you’ll need to pack your own lunch and provisions for the day. Eating on-site is allowed, but there are no meal options provided.

Are There Any Dress Code Requirements?

There aren’t any strict dress code requirements for visiting Machu Picchu. However, it’s best to wear comfortable, layered clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for hiking, as the terrain can be uneven and the weather can change quickly.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit?

The best time to visit Machu Picchu is typically during the dry season, from May to October. Crowds are smaller and the weather’s more pleasant, though prices may be higher. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for a balance.

The Sum Up

The "From Cusco: Machu Picchu Full Day" tour offers an exciting opportunity to explore the iconic Inca site. While customer feedback highlights some communication and ticket issues, the excellent service provided by guide Yésica, along with the tour’s inclusions and transportation, make it a worthwhile option for those seeking a guided exploration of Machu Picchu. Travelers should weigh the pros and cons to determine if this tour fits their needs and expectations.

You can check availability for your dates here: