Exploring the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu is a bucket-list experience for many travelers. This full-day private tour from Cusco promises an immersive journey through the site’s architectural marvels and rich history. With an early start, guests can beat the crowds and witness the sunrise over the stunning mountain landscape. A professional bilingual guide leads the way, offering insights that bring the site to life. But the real highlight? Discovering why Machu Picchu continues to captivate visitors from around the world.
Key Points
- Full-day private tour from Cusco to the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, including transportation, entrance tickets, guided tour, and lunch.
- Pickup from Cusco hotel at 4:00 a.m. and return by 8:30 p.m., with train and bus transfers to and from Machu Picchu.
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu lasting approximately 2.5 hours, providing insights into the history, architecture, and significance of the site.
- Tour available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Tour not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with heart problems, or wheelchair users due to the physical demands of the experience.
Tour Overview
This full-day private tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu lets visitors explore the iconic Inca citadel at their own pace.
Priced from $460 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
This private tour to Machu Picchu offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The 1-day experience is available in English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese. Travelers can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility.
The tour includes hotel pickup, round-trip train and bus transportation, entrance tickets, a guided tour, and lunch.
It’s not suitable for pregnant women, those with heart problems, or wheelchair users.
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Tour Itinerary
The tour begins with pickup from the traveler’s hotel in Cusco at 4:00 a.m. They’ll travel to Ollantaytambo train station, about a 2-hour drive.
Next, they’ll board a tourist train to Machupicchu Pueblo, which takes around 2 hours. Upon arrival, they’ll meet a Chullos Travel Peru representative who’ll transfer them to the Consettur bus station for the 30-minute bus ride to Machu Picchu.
A guided tour of the citadel follows, lasting approximately 2.5 hours. Afterward, they’ll have lunch and free time in Machupicchu town before returning by train to Ollantaytambo and then back to Cusco, arriving around 8:30 p.m.
Pickup and Transfer
The tour begins with pickup from the traveler’s hotel in Cusco at 4:00 a.m. The private vehicle then departs for the Ollantaytambo train station, a journey of approximately 2 hours.
The drive offers a scenic glimpse of the Andes mountains and rural Andean communities along the way. Upon arrival at Ollantaytambo:
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Travelers board the tourist train (Inca Rail or Peru Rail) for the 2-hour journey to Machupicchu Pueblo.
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At Machupicchu Pueblo, a Chullos Travel Peru representative meets the group.
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Travelers then transfer to the Consettur bus station for the 30-minute ascent to the Machu Picchu sanctuary.
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The guided tour of the Machu Picchu citadel begins shortly after.
Train Journey
After the pickup and transfer from Cusco, travelers board the tourist train at Ollantaytambo for the approximately 2-hour journey to Machupicchu Pueblo.
They’ll enjoy scenic views of the Andes as the train winds through the valley.
Upon arrival, a Chullos Travel Peru representative will be waiting to assist the group.
Upon arrival, a Chullos Travel Peru representative will be waiting to assist the group.
From the train station, they’ll take a 30-minute bus ride up to the entrance of the Machu Picchu citadel, where the guided tour will commence.
This efficient train journey gets travelers to the iconic site quickly and comfortably.
More Great Tours NearbyArrival at Machupicchu Pueblo
Upon arriving at Machupicchu Pueblo, travelers will be met by a Chullos Travel Peru representative, who’ll assist them in transferring to the Consettur bus station for the final leg of the journey up to the Machu Picchu sanctuary.
The journey includes:
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A short 30-minute bus ride to the Machu Picchu entrance.
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A guided tour of the Machu Picchu citadel, lasting approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.
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Time for lunch and free exploration in the Machupicchu town.
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Panoramic views of the iconic Inca ruins and the surrounding Andes mountains.
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Guided Tour of Machu Picchu
Once at the Machu Picchu sanctuary, the professional bilingual guide will lead travelers on an informative 2-hour and 30-minute tour of the iconic Inca citadel.
The guide will share insights into the history, architecture, and significance of the site, bringing the ruins to life. Visitors will explore the Temple of the Sun, the Royal Tomb, the Intihuatana, and other remarkable structures, learning about the ingenious engineering and urban planning of the Incas.
Throughout the tour, the guide will encourage questions, ensuring travelers leave with a deeper understanding and appreciation of this wonder of the ancient world.
Return Journey
To return to Cusco, travelers will depart from Machupicchu Pueblo by train, which takes approximately 2 hours to reach Ollantaytambo.
The journey back includes:
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A scenic train ride through the Andes, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
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A transfer from the Ollantaytambo train station back to Cusco, arriving around 8:30 p.m.
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A chance to reflect on the incredible experience of visiting the iconic Machu Picchu citadel.
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Coordination with the tour provider to ensure a smooth and hassle-free return trip.
Tour Inclusions and Exclusions
The Machu Picchu private tour includes a comprehensive package of essential services and amenities to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Pickup and transfer from the Cusco hotel, round-trip tourist train tickets, and return transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco are all covered.
The tour also provides entrance tickets to Machu Picchu, a professional bilingual guide, and lunch in Machupicchu town.
However, the tour excludes meals not mentioned, travel insurance, drinks, and personal purchases.
Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with heart problems, or wheelchair users.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There an Option to Hike to Machu Picchu Instead of Taking the Train?
Yes, there’s an option to hike to Machu Picchu instead of taking the train. Customers can choose the Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek, which take 2-4 days to reach the iconic site on foot.
Can We Add Extra Activities or Stops During the Tour?
Yes, travelers can add extra activities or stops during the tour. Additional experiences like visiting a local market, exploring Inca ruins, or hiking the Inca Trail can be customized with the tour provider prior to the trip.
Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?
Yes, there are discounts for children and seniors on this tour. Children under 12 receive a 20% discount, while seniors over 65 get a 10% discount off the standard tour price.
Can We Customize the Tour Duration or Schedule?
Yes, the tour can be customized. Travelers can adjust the duration and schedule as needed, subject to availability. The supplier should be contacted directly to discuss any modifications to the standard Machu Picchu tour itinerary.
What Is the Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable, layered clothing is recommended. Wear sturdy walking shoes, bring sun protection, and dress for the mountain climate. Avoid jeans or formal wear, as the tour involves hiking and exploring ancient ruins.
The Sum Up
This private tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu offers an unforgettable experience. Travelers will be captivated by the breathtaking ancient ruins and learn about the rich history from a professional guide. With convenient transportation, train journey, and inclusion of entrance tickets and lunch, this comprehensive package ensures a hassle-free and memorable exploration of the iconic Inca citadel.
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