Cusco: Machu Picchu Day Trip With Train + Entrance Ticket

Machu Picchu is a bucket-list destination for many travelers, and this day trip from Cusco offers a convenient way to experience its breathtaking ruins. You’ll embark on a scenic train journey, explore the site with a knowledgeable guide, and discover the charming town of Aguas Calientes. With round-trip transportation and all the logistics taken care of, this tour provides an effortless introduction to one of Peru’s most iconic landmarks. What makes this day trip truly special, however, is the opportunity to delve deeper into the history and significance of Machu Picchu.

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Key Points

This day trip from Cusco to Machu Picchu includes round-trip transportation, train rides, bus transfers, and a guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage site.
The total duration of the trip is approximately 13-14 hours, with a cost ranging from £257.34 to £270.88 per person.
The itinerary involves a bus ride to Ollantaytambo, a train journey to Aguas Calientes, and a bus up to the Machu Picchu entrance.
The tour provides free time to explore Aguas Calientes and enjoy an authentic Peruvian lunch, as well as a guided tour of Machu Picchu.
Comfortable shoes, a hat, a camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended, while drones, tripods, and large backpacks are prohibited.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview

The Machu Picchu Day Trip is an activity that allows visitors to explore the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu in a single day.

The tour lasts 13-14 hours and costs between £257.34 to £270.88 per person. It includes round-trip transportation from Cusco hotels, train rides, bus transfers, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu.

The trip is non-refundable and available in Spanish, English, and Portuguese. Guests should bring comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water. Certain items like drones and tripods aren’t allowed.

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Itinerary

Pickup locations include 7 options in Cusco: Plaza de Armas, Avenida Arcopata, Calle Saphy, Lucrepata, Santa Ana, and Avenida El Sol.

From there, a tourist bus travels 1.5 hours to Ollantaytambo station. The train then takes 1.75 hours to reach Aguas Calientes.

A 25-minute bus ride brings visitors to the Machu Picchu entrance. After a 2-hour guided tour, the return journey includes a 25-minute bus to Aguas Calientes, 1.75-hour train to Ollantaytambo, and 1.5-hour bus back to Cusco.

Drop-off locations are Avenida El Sol, Plaza de Armas, and Cusco.

Highlights

Visitors can experience the Andes and Machu Picchu in one immersive day on this tour.

Travelers will enjoy a scenic train ride to the charming town of Aguas Calientes. From there, a bus will take them up to the iconic Machu Picchu ruins where a knowledgeable guide will share the site’s fascinating history and origins.

Guests can explore the ancient citadel at their own pace during the guided tour. For those seeking an authentic Peruvian lunch, there’s an option to enjoy a meal in Aguas Calientes before the return journey.

The tour also allows free time to wander the lively town.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This Machu Picchu day trip includes round-trip tourist transportation from the hotel to the train station, as well as the round-trip train journey from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.

It also includes the round-trip bus from Aguas Calientes to the Machu Picchu entrance, a certified local guide, and entrance to Machu Picchu.

However, food, drinks, and tips aren’t included. The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with back problems, mobility impairments, or wheelchair users.

Visitors must bring their valid passport and aren’t allowed to bring drones, professional cameras, tripods, or large backpacks.

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Important Information

Travelers are advised to bring comfortable shoes, a hat, a camera, sunscreen, and water for the day trip.

Drones, professional cameras, tripods, and large backpacks aren’t allowed. Visitors must bring a valid passport on the trip day.

Pickup times depend on the train departure, typically at 4:00 am or 6:00 am.

At Machu Picchu, travelers can only stay during the guided tour, and re-entry isn’t permitted.

If Machu Picchu entrance tickets sell out, the trip may be non-refundable, and alternative routes may incur additional costs.

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Pickup Locations

7 pickup locations are offered in central Cusco, including Plaza de Armas, Avenida Arcopata, Calle Saphy, Lucrepata, Santa Ana, and Avenida El Sol.

These convenient options ensure easy access for travelers starting their Machu Picchu adventure. The tour includes round-trip transportation from your hotel to the train station, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the scenic journey.

Whether you’re staying near the Plaza de Armas or along Avenida El Sol, the tour makes it simple to join the group and begin your unforgettable day at the iconic Inca citadel.

Travel Steps

The tour begins with a tourist bus transferring guests from their Cusco hotels to the Ollantaytambo train station, a journey of approximately 1.5 hours. From there, travelers board the train for a 1.75-hour scenic ride to Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival, they’ll take a 25-minute bus up to the Machu Picchu entrance.

| Travel Step | Duration |

|————-|———-|

| Bus to Ollantaytambo | 1.5 hours |

| Train to Aguas Calientes | 1.75 hours |

| Bus to Machu Picchu | 25 minutes |

| Guided Tour of Machu Picchu | 2 hours |

| Bus to Aguas Calientes | 25 minutes |

After the guided tour, guests have free time to explore Aguas Calientes before the return journey by train and bus back to Cusco.

Customer Rating

According to customer reviews, the overall rating for this Machu Picchu day trip is 4.3 out of 5 stars, based on 11 reviews.

Reviewers rated the value for money at 4 out of 5 stars. Customers praised the scenic train ride, guided tour, and opportunity to explore Aguas Calientes.

However, some noted the early pickup time and long travel day. The trip isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book Additional Activities in Machu Picchu?

Visitors can book additional activities in Machu Picchu, such as hiking to the Sun Gate or Inca Bridge. However, these optional activities aren’t included in the day trip package and may incur extra costs.

Is There a Way to Upgrade the Train Class?

Yes, you can upgrade the train class for this Machu Picchu day trip. Upgrade options are available at an additional cost, providing more comfort and amenities during the scenic journey to Aguas Calientes.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour company does not currently offer discounts for students or seniors on this Machu Picchu day trip. However, they may provide price reductions for groups of 3 or more booking together. It’s best to inquire directly about any available promotions.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Machu Picchu?

The best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season from May to October when the weather is generally clear and dry. Crowds are smaller and temperatures are mild, making it the ideal time for a visit.

Can I Arrange a Private Tour Guide for the Machu Picchu Visit?

Yes, you can arrange a private guide for your Machu Picchu visit. Many tour companies offer this option, which allows for a more personalized experience and the ability to ask in-depth questions about the historic site.

The Sum Up

This Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco offers an unforgettable experience. Travelers will be awestruck by the ancient Inca citadel, captivated by the stunning scenery, and immersed in the rich cultural heritage. With round-trip transportation, a scenic train ride, and a guided tour, it’s a hassle-free way to explore one of the world’s most remarkable archaeological wonders in a single day.

You can check availability for your dates here: