Cusco: Machu Picchu Afternoon Tour With Guide

Exploring the ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu is a dream for many travelers. The Cusco: Machu Picchu Afternoon Tour offers an opportunity to experience this iconic site with the guidance of a knowledgeable local. Priced at $359 per person, the tour promises a personalized and crowd-free exploration, ensuring visitors can fully enjoy the spiritual and historical significance of the Inca civilization. With transportation, ideal lighting, and a carefully curated itinerary, this tour may be the perfect choice for those seeking an enriching and unforgettable afternoon in the Andes.

Key Points

• The Machu Picchu Afternoon Tour is a 15-hour guided excursion from Cusco to the iconic Inca ruins, priced at $359 per person.
• The tour includes transportation, a guided exploration of key sites, and an optional buffet lunch at the Sanctuary Lodge hotel.
• The tour itinerary consists of a van ride, bus journey, train ride, and bus ride to reach Machu Picchu, followed by a 2.5-hour guided tour.
• The afternoon tour offers fewer visitors and optimal lighting for photography, with highlights such as the Temple of the Sun and Sacred Rock.
• The tour is available in English and Spanish, but is non-refundable, and excludes personal expenses such as meals, beverages, and tips.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This Machu Picchu Afternoon Tour offers an activity that explores the ancient Inca citadel of Cusco.

Priced at $359 per person, the 15-hour tour has a limited group size of 10 participants and is available in English and Spanish.

The non-refundable tour includes transportation, a guided exploration of Machu Picchu’s key sites, and the opportunity to capture iconic views.

Visitors can opt for a buffet lunch at the Sanctuary Lodge hotel.

While meals and personal expenses aren’t included, the tour provides an immersive experience with fewer crowds and optimal lighting for photography.

Itinerary

The tour begins with a 15-minute van ride from Cusco to Ollantaytambo.

From there, you’ll board a bus for a 2-hour journey to the train station.

The 105-minute train ride takes you to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll switch to a 30-minute bus up to Machu Picchu.

Once at the iconic site, you’ll enjoy a 2.5-hour guided tour, exploring key landmarks like the Temple of the Sun and Sacred Rock.

After the tour, the return journey retraces your steps – bus to Aguas Calientes, 2.75-hour train to Ollantaytambo, and 2-hour bus back to Cusco, arriving around 10:40 PM.

Highlights

The afternoon tour of Machu Picchu offers an optimal experience, with fewer visitors and excellent lighting for photography.

The afternoon tour of Machu Picchu offers an optimal experience, with fewer visitors and excellent lighting for photography.

The guided exploration includes key sites:

• Temple of the Sun, where the Incas worshipped the sun

• Main Temple, the iconic central structure of the citadel

• Temple of the Three Windows, a sacred structure with three trapezoidal windows

• Sacred Rock, a natural spiritual site for the Incas

• Water Mirrors, reflecting pools that showcase the architectural genius

Capture breathtaking views from the Guardians House sector, a prime vantage point to admire Machu Picchu’s grandeur.

Additional Options

Visitors have the option to add a buffet lunch at the 5-star Sanctuary Lodge hotel’s Tinkuy restaurant. This provides a convenient dining experience during the tour.

Plus, the tour offers inclusive transportation from Cusco, covering the various transfers throughout the journey. This all-inclusive option simplifies logistics and ensures a seamless experience for travelers.

Whether visitors choose the lunch or just the tour, the Cusco: Machu Picchu Afternoon Tour with Guide provides a comprehensive way to explore the iconic archaeological site during the optimal afternoon hours.

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Transport

The tour offers all-inclusive transportation from Cusco, covering the various transfers needed throughout the journey. This includes:

A seamless and hassle-free Machu Picchu experience with all-inclusive transportation from Cusco, covering various transfers throughout the journey.

• A 15-minute van ride to Ollantaytambo

• A 2-hour bus/coach transfer to the train station

• A 105-minute train ride to Aguas Calientes

• A 30-minute bus/coach trip to Machu Picchu

• A 30-minute bus/coach return from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes

• A 2.75-hour train journey back to Ollantaytambo

• A 2-hour bus/coach transfer to Cusco

This comprehensive transportation package ensures a seamless and hassle-free experience, allowing you to focus on the wonders of Machu Picchu.

Comfortable Attire

Comfortable shoes are a must for the Machu Picchu Afternoon Tour.

You’ll be walking for extended periods, including the exploration of Machu Picchu’s key sites. Pack lightweight, closed-toe shoes with good traction to navigate the uneven terrain. Avoid high heels or sandals, as they can be uncomfortable and unsafe.

Dress in layers, as the temperature can fluctuate throughout the day. Bring a light jacket or sweater in case of cooler conditions, especially during the train ride or at higher elevations.

Comfortable, breathable clothing will ensure you can fully enjoy your Machu Picchu experience without any discomfort.

Exclusions

The package price doesn’t include meals and beverages, unless the optional buffet lunch at the Tinkuy restaurant is selected. Personal expenses are also not covered in the tour cost.

Key exclusions include:

• Meals and drinks, except for the optional buffet lunch

• Tips and gratuities for the guide and driver

• Travel insurance

• Any activities or services not explicitly mentioned in the tour itinerary

• Additional transportation beyond the specified tour route

Travelers should budget for these extra expenses to ensure a smooth and enjoyable Machu Picchu experience.

Personal Expenses

Travelers should expect to cover a range of personal expenses during the Machu Picchu Afternoon Tour. This excludes the package price, which covers transportation and the guided tour.

Visitors will need to budget for meals, snacks, and drinks not included in the optional buffet lunch. Souvenirs, tips for the guide and drivers, and any other incidentals will also be out-of-pocket expenses.

It’s advisable to bring local currency (Peruvian soles) to cover these costs conveniently. Keeping a flexible budget allows for a more enjoyable and stress-free experience exploring the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Possible to Visit Machu Picchu Without a Guide?

Yes, it’s possible to visit Machu Picchu without a guide. Visitors can explore the site independently, but a guided tour provides valuable insights into the history and significance of this ancient Inca citadel.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to Machu Picchu?

Yes, visitors can bring their own food and drinks to Machu Picchu. However, the guided tour doesn’t include any meals or beverages, so travelers should plan accordingly if they want to eat or drink during their visit.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement for This Tour?

The tour has a limited group size of up to 10 participants. There is no minimum group size requirement, allowing for flexibility in booking and organizing the tour.

Can I Extend My Stay at Machu Picchu After the Tour?

The tour doesn’t allow for extending your stay at Machu Picchu after the guided portion. The itinerary includes a set schedule with a return train and bus ride back to Cusco around 10:40 PM.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour provider does not offer any senior or student discounts. However, they may have periodic sales or promotions that could provide savings. It’s best to check their website or contact them directly for the latest pricing information.

The Sum Up

The Cusco: Machu Picchu Afternoon Tour offers an immersive experience exploring the iconic ruins with a knowledgeable guide. With a well-organized 15-hour itinerary, small group size, and transportation included, this tour promises fewer crowds and ideal lighting for photography. It’s a perfect choice for travelers seeking to explore the beauty and spirituality of the Inca civilization.

You can check availability for your dates here: