From Cusco: Machupicchu Full Day Tour With Expedition Train

Exploring the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu is a bucket-list item for many travelers. This full-day tour from Cusco offers an exceptional opportunity to experience the journey in comfort and style. Hop aboard an expedition train as you wind through the lush Urubamba River Valley, then dive into the captivating history and architecture of the iconic ruins with a guided tour. What secrets and surprises await at the top of the mountain?

Contents show

Key Points

Depart from Cusco, the ancient Inca capital, and journey to Machu Picchu via an expedition train through the scenic Urubamba River Valley.
Enjoy a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu ruins, exploring the site’s intricate architecture and learning about its historical and cultural significance.
Experience the comfort and convenience of the tourist train, with panoramic windows providing stunning views of the Andean landscapes.
Spend free time exploring the charming town of Aguas Calientes at the base of Machu Picchu.
Return to Cusco via a multi-leg journey, including bus and train rides, allowing for breathtaking scenery along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Cusco: Your Starting Point

Although Cusco serves as the starting point for many Machu Picchu adventures, it’s a fascinating destination in its own right.

This ancient Inca capital boasts well-preserved ruins, colonial architecture, and a vibrant indigenous culture. Visitors can explore the iconic Plaza de Armas, climb the steep streets to impressive archaeological sites, and enjoy the city’s rich heritage.

With its high-altitude setting and mild climate, Cusco offers a comfortable base to acclimate before embarking on the journey to the iconic Machu Picchu.

Cusco’s high-altitude setting and mild climate make it a comfortable base to acclimate before the journey to Machu Picchu.

The city’s convenient location makes it an ideal starting point for this unforgettable Peruvian adventure.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Aguas Calientes

Journey to Ollantaytambo

The journey to Ollantaytambo begins with a scenic bus ride from Cusco.

Sit back and enjoy the picturesque landscapes as the bus winds through the Sacred Valley. The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours, offering glimpses of traditional Andean villages and snow-capped peaks.

Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, you’ll board the expedition train for the next stage of your adventure.

This comfortable, modern train will carry you through the lush Urubamba River Valley, providing ample opportunities to admire the incredible mountain vistas.

The train journey lasts around 105 minutes, setting the stage for your unforgettable visit to the iconic Machu Picchu.

Expedition Train to Aguas Calientes

After the bus journey, travelers board the expedition train for the next stage of the adventure.

The 105-minute train ride offers impressive landscapes and a comfortable journey to Aguas Calientes. The tourist train provides ample space, panoramic windows, and attentive service.

The 105-minute train ride offers impressive landscapes and a comfortable journey to Aguas Calientes. The tourist train provides ample space, panoramic windows, and attentive service.

Travelers can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic views as the train winds through the Andes. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, there’s free time to explore the picturesque streets and prepare for the visit to Machu Picchu.

The train ride is a seamless and enjoyable part of the overall tour experience.

Exploring Machu Picchu

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, visitors embark on the final leg of their journey – exploring the magnificent Machu Picchu.

The guided tour covers approximately 2 hours, allowing ample time to:

Marvel at the intricate architecture and stonework of the ancient citadel
Discover the historical and cultural significance of the site
Capture breathtaking panoramic views from the terraced hillsides
Witness the seamless integration of the structures with the natural landscape
Appreciate the spiritual and mystical atmosphere that permeates the ruins

With the guidance of a knowledgeable professional, guests gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for this incredible wonder of the world.

More Great Tours Nearby

Free Time in Aguas Calientes

Once visitors arrive in Aguas Calientes, they’ve 45 minutes to explore the charming town before their return journey.

Visitors can stroll the picturesque streets, browse local shops, and sample Peruvian cuisine.

After the Machu Picchu tour, they’ll have an additional hour to enjoy Aguas Calientes. This is the perfect opportunity to relax, grab a bite to eat, or pick up souvenirs.

The town’s compact size makes it easy to experience the highlights in a short amount of time before the train departs.

Visitors are sure to appreciate this free time to soak in the atmosphere of this gateway to Machu Picchu.

There's plenty more to explore in Aguas Calientes

Returning to Cusco

The return journey to Cusco involves several modes of transportation. After the Machu Picchu tour, travelers take the bus back to Aguas Calientes, followed by:

The return journey to Cusco involves taking the bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes, followed by a train and bus ride.

A 105-minute train ride to Ollantaytambo
A 1.5-hour bus ride from Ollantaytambo to Cusco

The final destination is Plaza Regocijo in Cusco.

This multi-leg journey allows visitors to soak in the breathtaking Andean landscapes once more before arriving back in the historic city.

The tour company provides all necessary transportation tickets and assistance, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable return experience.

Inclusions and Assistance

The Machu Picchu full day tour includes a comprehensive set of services and assistance to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for travelers. The tour provides pickup service from the hotel, shared tourist transportation, expedition train tickets, tourist bus tickets, and a professional tour guide. Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu (Circuit 1, 2, 3) are also included, along with breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Throughout the excursion, travelers receive permanent assistance. The tour also offers a transfer service back to the hotel, ensuring a hassle-free return journey.

| Inclusions | Assistance |

|————|————|

| Pickup service | Permanent assistance |

| Shared transportation | Transfer service to hotel |

| Expedition train tickets | |

Important Tips and Recommendations

To make the most of the Machu Picchu full day tour, travelers should bring essential items like their passport or ID card, comfortable clothing and shoes, a camera, and any necessary personal items such as sunscreen, rain gear, travel insurance, and insect repellent.

Drones aren’t allowed.

The tour provides pickup service, shared transportation, train and bus tickets, a professional guide, entrance to Machu Picchu, meals, and permanent assistance.

With high customer satisfaction, this tour offers an unforgettable experience exploring the ancient Inca citadel and the charming town of Aguas Calientes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Upgrade My Train Ticket to a More Luxurious Class?

Yes, you can upgrade your train ticket to a more luxurious class. The tour operator offers various train options, including premium services, that you can select for an additional fee when making your booking.

How Strict Is the Dress Code for Machu Picchu?

The dress code for Machu Picchu is relatively casual. Visitors should wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and avoid wearing revealing clothing. While there’s no strict dress code, visitors should dress respectfully to preserve the site’s cultural and historical significance.

Is It Possible to Extend My Stay in Aguas Calientes?

Yes, visitors can extend their stay in Aguas Calientes. The tour itinerary allows for free time in the town, and travelers can book additional nights at local hotels to explore the area further at their own pace.

Can I Join the Tour Group at the Ollantaytambo Train Station?

Yes, you can join the tour group at the Ollantaytambo train station. The tour operator provides pickup service from Cusco, but you can meet the group at the train station if that’s more convenient for you.

What Happens if I Lose My Passport During the Tour?

If you lose your passport during the tour, inform the tour guide immediately. They will assist you in contacting the local authorities and embassy to obtain temporary travel documents. Bring a photocopy of your passport as backup.

The Sum Up

The "From Cusco: Machupicchu Full Day Tour With Expedition Train" offers an unforgettable adventure, showcasing stunning landscapes, rich history, and the breathtaking Machu Picchu. With convenient transportation, a comfortable train ride, and a guided tour, this full-day experience allows travelers to enjoy the Inca’s captivating legacy. It’s a must-do for anyone visiting Cusco, providing an efficient and memorable way to explore one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites.

You can check availability for your dates here: