Cusco’s Machu Picchu tour by train offers an unforgettable adventure. Travelers embark on a scenic journey, trekking through the Andes and exploring the iconic citadel. This full-day excursion blends natural beauty and cultural heritage, providing ample opportunities to take in the breathtaking surroundings. Whether hiking to Huayna Picchu or simply taking in the grandeur of Machu Picchu, this tour promises an enriching experience that leaves a lasting impression. But what makes this particular tour stand out from the rest?

Contents show

Key Points

A full-day excursion to Machu Picchu from Cusco by train, lasting approximately 16 hours and priced at $349 per person.
Includes hotel pickup, transportation, guided walking tour, and free exploration time, with meals, train tickets, and park entry provided.
The journey involves a 3-hour hike from Hidroelectric to Aguas Calientes, offering stunning views and a sense of adventure.
Guided tour of the Machu Picchu citadel, with options to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for panoramic vistas.
Return trip by train to Ollantaytambo and bus back to Cusco, ensuring a seamless transportation experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Machu Picchu Tour is a full-day excursion that allows visitors to explore the iconic Inca citadel by train. Priced from $349 per person, the tour lasts approximately 16 hours and is available in English and Spanish.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and guests can reserve their spot without upfront payment. The itinerary includes hotel pickup, transportation to Machu Picchu, a guided walking tour, and free time to hike or explore on your own.

Meals, train tickets, and park entry are all included, making this an excellent value for money and a flexible way to experience Machu Picchu.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Cusco

Departure From Cusco

After hotel pickup between 6:00 – 6:30 am, the tour departs from Cusco and heads towards the Sacred Valley.

The first stop is at Ollantaytambo, where participants enjoy a 20-minute break to take in the stunning Inca ruins.

The journey then continues to Santa Teresa, where a delicious lunch is served.

Following the meal, the group boards a van for the drive to Hidroelectric, marking the start of a 3-hour hike along the train track to Aguas Calientes.

After lunch, the group boards a van for Hidroelectric, beginning a 3-hour hike along the train track to Aguas Calientes.

This scenic trek allows participants to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.

Ollantaytambo and Santa Teresa

From Ollantaytambo, the tour continues its journey to Santa Teresa. After a brief 20-minute stop, the group hops back in the van for the drive to Santa Teresa. There, they’ll enjoy a well-deserved lunch before the next leg of the trek.

| Departure from Ollantaytambo | Duration | Next Destination |

| — | — | — |

| Short stop | 20 minutes | Santa Teresa |

| Lunch | – | – |

| Van ride | – | Santa Teresa |

The tour is making good progress, inching closer to the famous Machu Picchu site. Next up, the group will hike from Santa Teresa to the Hidroelectric train station, then board a train to Aguas Calientes.

Hike to Aguas Calientes

Next, the group takes a van ride to the Hidroelectric train station. From there, they’ll embark on a 3-hour hike along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes.

This hike offers:

Stunning views of the Urubamba River and lush Andean landscape.
A chance to witness the local culture, as they may encounter villagers and farmers.
A sense of adventure and accomplishment, as they make their way to the base of Machu Picchu.

After the hike, they’ll have time to rest at their hostel and visit the nearby hot springs before dinner.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visit to Machu Picchu

When the group arrives at Aguas Calientes, they’ll take an early morning bus to the Machu Picchu citadel. At the iconic Inca site, a guide will lead a walking tour, covering the history and significance of the ruins. Visitors will have free time to explore on their own, with options to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for stunning views.

| Feature | Option 1 | Option 2 |

| — | — | — |

| Hike | Huayna Picchu | Machu Picchu Mountain |

| Duration | 2-3 hours | 3-4 hours |

| Difficulty | Challenging | Moderate |

| Highlights | Iconic summit views | Panoramic vistas |

After the visit, the group will return to Aguas Calientes to board the train back to Ollantaytambo, where a bus will take them to Cusco.

There's plenty more to explore in Cusco

Afternoon Return to Ollantaytambo

After the visit to Machu Picchu, the group will return to Aguas Calientes to board the train back to Ollantaytambo.

After visiting Machu Picchu, the group will return to Aguas Calientes and board the train to Ollantaytambo.

The journey by train is approximately 1.5 hours. Once at Ollantaytambo, the group will be picked up by a touristic bus for the return trip to Cusco city.

The return to Cusco is expected to take around 1.5 hours.

The key steps for the afternoon return to Ollantaytambo are:

Board train in Aguas Calientes for 1.5-hour journey to Ollantaytambo.
Meet touristic bus at Ollantaytambo train station.
Enjoy 1.5-hour bus ride back to Cusco city.

Transportation to Cusco

The return to Cusco concludes the full-day Machu Picchu tour.

After the train ride from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, travelers are picked up by a touristic bus for the journey back to Cusco city. This comfortable bus ride takes around 1.5 hours, allowing guests to reflect on the day’s adventures.

The tour ends with hotel drop-off, providing a seamless experience from start to finish.

With hassle-free transportation and a well-planned itinerary, this Machu Picchu tour offers an exceptional value for those seeking to explore this iconic Inca wonder.

Inclusions and Highlights

This full-day Machu Picchu tour includes an extensive list of services to ensure a seamless and memorable experience.

Travelers will enjoy:

Roundtrip transportation, including hotel pickup, train tickets, and bus tickets to the citadel.
An expert guide leading a walking tour of Machu Picchu, providing insights into the Inca history and architectural wonders.
Meals, including breakfast and lunch, to fuel the day’s adventures.

The tour also offers flexibility, allowing visitors to customize their itinerary with options to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.

With fantastic aerial views and excellent value for money, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to explore the iconic Machu Picchu.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Type of Camera Is Best for Taking Photos at Machu Picchu?

A mirrorless or DSLR camera with a wide-angle lens is best for capturing Machu Picchu’s sweeping vistas. It’ll allow you to take crisp, high-quality photos that’ll do justice to the site’s breathtaking landscape.

Is It Possible to Visit Machu Picchu on My Own Without a Tour?

Yes, it’s possible to visit Machu Picchu independently. Visitors can purchase their own entrance tickets and transportation to reach the site. However, a guided tour provides more insights and flexibility to explore the ancient citadel.

What Is the Weather Like During the Tour?

The weather during the tour can vary. It’s generally cool and dry in the mornings, with temperatures rising and the chance of rain increasing in the afternoons. Layering clothing is recommended to be prepared for the changing conditions.

Are Dietary Restrictions Accommodated for the Included Meals?

Yes, dietary restrictions are accommodated for the included meals. The tour provider will work with you to ensure your dietary needs are met, so you can enjoy the tour comfortably.

Can I Extend My Stay in Aguas Calientes After the Tour?

Yes, you can extend your stay in Aguas Calientes after the tour. The tour itinerary allows for free time in Aguas Calientes, so you can choose to stay longer and explore the town on your own.

The Sum Up

The Cusco: Full-Day Machu Picchu Tour by Train offers a remarkable experience, blending natural beauty and cultural heritage. Travelers will embark on a scenic hike, explore the iconic Machu Picchu citadel, and have the option to hike additional trails, ensuring an unforgettable adventure. The tour’s comprehensive itinerary and inclusions make it an excellent choice for those seeking to discover the wonders of this UNESCO World Heritage site.