Machu Picchu, the iconic Inca citadel, is a must-visit destination for travelers to Peru. The full-day tour from Cusco provides a seamless and immersive experience, allowing visitors to marvel at the ancient ruins, nestled high in the Andes. With hotel pickup, scenic train ride, and a guided tour, this package ensures a hassle-free journey. But the true allure of Machu Picchu lies in its ability to captivate the senses and transport visitors to a bygone era. Discover the secrets that lie within this UNESCO World Heritage site.

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Key Points

This full-day tour from Cusco includes round-trip transportation, train tickets, entrance fees, and a guided exploration of Machu Picchu.
The itinerary features a scenic train ride, bus transfer, and guided tour, with optional activities like hiking Huayna Picchu or visiting local sites.
Lunch at a tourist restaurant in Aguas Calientes and permanent telephone assistance throughout the day are included in the tour package.
Participants should review physical requirements and entry policies prior to the tour and bring necessary items like comfortable shoes and sunscreen.
Prohibited items include pets, oversize luggage, smoking, large bags, drones, alcohol, drugs, and explosives, and the tour may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments or epilepsy.

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Tour Overview

The Machu Picchu Full-Day Tour from Cusco provides a comprehensive experience for visitors wishing to explore the iconic Inca citadel. Priced from $399 per person, the 1-day tour includes round-trip transportation, train tickets, entrance fees, and a guided visit to Machu Picchu’s key sites.

Offering free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the tour’s itinerary covers a scenic train ride, a bus transfer to the ruins, and ample time for guided exploration and independent discovery.

Travelers should note the tour’s physical requirements and familiarize themselves with the site’s entry policies to ensure a smooth and memorable day at Machu Picchu.

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Itinerary

The morning begins with pickup from your hotel lobby, located in the main plaza of Cusco, between 4:00 am and 7:00 am.

Your day in Cusco begins with a pickup from your hotel lobby in the main plaza, between 4:00 am and 7:00 am.

Set out on a scenic 1.5-hour transfer to the Ollantaytambo train station. Then, board a panoramic 2-hour train ride to Aguas Calientes.

Upon arrival, a 30-minute bus ride takes you to the Machu Picchu entrance. The guided tour explores significant sites, including:

The Temple of the Sun
The Inca Bridge

After, enjoy free time to explore and capture photos.

Following a 1-hour lunch break, the return journey includes the train back to Ollantaytambo and a transfer to your Cusco hotel, arriving between 7:00 pm and 10:00 pm.

Inclusions

This tour includes a range of services to ensure a seamless Machu Picchu experience.

It covers all necessary transfers, from your Cusco hotel to the train stations and back. You’ll ride the Expedition Train to and from Aguas Calientes, as well as the bus up to the Machu Picchu ruins.

The entrance ticket and a guided tour are included, so you won’t have to worry about any logistics. Lunch at a tourist restaurant in Aguas Calientes is provided.

Throughout your day, you’ll have permanent telephone assistance in case of any questions or concerns.

Optional Activities

While the Machu Picchu Full-Day Tour includes the essential experiences, visitors can enhance their journey by opting for additional activities.

Visitors can choose to:

Hike the iconic Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for a more challenging and rewarding experience, with an additional cost of USD 65.00 per person.
Explore the lesser-known Inca sites in the area, such as the quarries or the Inca Bridge, for a deeper understanding of the Inca civilization.
Participate in a guided tour of the Inca Trail, which offers a unique perspective on the ancient pathways leading to Machu Picchu.
Discover the vibrant culture of Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu, through local markets and dining experiences.

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Important Information

Visitors should bring their passport or ID, wear comfortable shoes, and pack sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen for their Machu Picchu adventure.

Pets, oversize luggage, smoking, large bags, drones, alcohol, drugs, and explosive substances aren’t allowed.

The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or epilepsy.

Re-entry to Machu Picchu is limited, so travelers should consult their guide for time management.

The ticket includes a predetermined one-way circuit, and re-entry requires specific tickets.

Train availability may vary based on booking and seasons.

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Scenic Train Ride

After the morning pickup, travelers embark on a scenic 2-hour train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.

The train journey offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Andes mountains and valleys, including:

Snow-capped peaks towering in the distance
Lush, verdant landscapes dotted with small villages
Roaring rivers and cascading waterfalls
Steep, terraced hillsides carved by the Incas

This picturesque train ride sets the stage for the unforgettable experience of exploring the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, the highlight of the day’s adventure.

Exploring Machu Picchu

Upon arriving at Aguas Calientes, travelers board a 30-minute bus that winds its way up the steep, winding roads to the iconic entrance of Machu Picchu.

A professional guide leads a 2.5-hour tour, highlighting the site’s significant structures like the Temple of the Sun and the Inca Bridge. Visitors marvel at the remarkably preserved stonework and learn about the Inca’s impressive engineering feats.

After the guided tour, travelers have free time to explore the ruins, snap photos, and soak in the majestic vistas of the Andes. This once-in-a-lifetime experience leaves an indelible mark on all who set foot in this enigmatic lost city.

Return Journey

Once the guided tour and free exploration have concluded, travelers board the bus back down to Aguas Calientes.

The return journey includes:

A 2-hour scenic train ride from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
A transfer from Ollantaytambo back to the hotel in Cusco, arriving between 7:00 pm and 10:00 pm.
Opportunities to admire the stunning mountain landscapes and Andean villages along the way.
The convenience of having all transportation arrangements taken care of, allowing travelers to relax and enjoy the experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Departure Times From Cusco?

The departure times from Cusco range from 4:00 am to 7:00 am, with a scenic 1.5-hour transfer to the Ollantaytambo train station before the 2-hour train ride to Aguas Calientes.

Is It Possible to Take a Private Tour?

The tour operator doesn’t offer private tours. However, travelers can request a private guide for an additional fee. This allows for a more personalized experience during the Machu Picchu visit.

Do You Provide Vegetarian/Vegan Meal Options?

Yes, the tour offers vegetarian and vegan meal options upon request. Guests should inform the tour provider of any dietary requirements when booking the tour to ensure appropriate accommodations are made.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Free Exploration?

The tour includes 2.5 hours of guided exploration, followed by free time for independent exploration. Travelers can take photos and wander Machu Picchu’s ruins at their own pace during this dedicated free time.

Is There a Dress Code or Special Requirements?

There’s no strict dress code, but comfortable outdoor attire and sturdy shoes are recommended. Bringing sun protection like a hat and sunscreen is advised. Large bags, drones, and certain other items aren’t allowed on the tour.

The Sum Up

Machu Picchu is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the breathtaking ancient Inca citadel. The full-day tour from Cusco provides a seamless and memorable experience, with transportation, guidance, and essential inclusions covered. Visitors can enjoy the rich history and stunning natural surroundings, creating unforgettable memories of this UNESCO World Heritage site.