Exploring the majestic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu is a bucket-list adventure for many travelers. The full-day small-group tour from Cusco promises an immersive experience, with a scenic journey, knowledgeable guides, and personalized attention. At $399 per person, this 15-hour excursion offers an opportunity to explore the rich history and sacred sites of this UNESCO World Heritage wonder. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an unforgettable Peruvian experience, this tour may just be the perfect fit.

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Key Points

A full-day small-group tour from Cusco to the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, with a duration of approximately 15 hours.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, a guided tour of Machu Picchu, and the opportunity to explore sacred temples and royal quarters.
The tour is available in both Spanish and English, with a knowledgeable guide providing insights into the Inca civilization.
The tour offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance, and a pay-later option.
The tour is operated by a reputable local company, with comprehensive safety measures and a high staff-to-guest ratio for personalized attention.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The "Full-Day Small-Group Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco" is priced at $399.00 per person and lasts approximately 15 hours.

The tour is available in Spanish and English, with a live guide. Travelers can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour offers a pay-later option, providing booking flexibility.

The itinerary includes transportation from Cusco to Machu Picchu, with a scenic train ride and guided tour of the Inca citadel.

Highlights include learning about the history and significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and experiencing the breathtaking Andean landscapes.

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Itinerary and Transportation

The tour kicks off with a pickup from the Centro Histórico in Cusco. From there, guests embark on a 2-hour van ride to Ollantaytambo, where they’ll board a 30-minute train to Aguas Calientes. After a 20-minute walk, they’ll catch a 30-minute bus to Machu Picchu. Once at the site, they’ll enjoy a 105-minute guided tour, exploring sacred temples, royal quarters, and astronomical observatories. The return journey follows the same route in reverse, with a 2-hour train ride back to Ollantaytambo and a 2-hour van ride to Cusco.

| Transportation | Duration |

|—————-|———-|

| Van to Ollantaytambo | 2 hours |

| Train to Aguas Calientes | 30 minutes |

| Bus to Machu Picchu | 30 minutes |

| Return bus to Aguas Calientes | 30 minutes |

Highlights and Experiences

This small-group excursion to Machu Picchu offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore the iconic Inca citadel and enjoy the history and significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, guests will discover the sacred temples, royal quarters, agricultural terraces, and astronomical observatories that make Machu Picchu such a remarkable archaeological wonder.

Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, guests will uncover the sacred, royal, and astronomical marvels that define Machu Picchu’s archaeological wonder.

The scenic train ride along the Urubamba River provides breathtaking views of the Andean landscapes, adding to the overall enchantment of the experience.

Travelers will leave with a deeper appreciation for the Inca civilization and its enduring legacy.

Inclusions and Exclusions

While the tour includes round-trip train journey, a professional English-speaking guide, hotel pickup, bus transportation, and entrance to Machu Picchu with a guided tour, it excludes meals, admission to Huayna Picchu Mountain, Vistadome train upgrade, tips, and travel insurance.

Travelers should bring comfortable shoes, camera, original passport, ISIC card, waterproof jacket, warm clothing, sun protection, and personal medication.

Prohibited items include drinks in the vehicle, alcohol, and drugs.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or people over 95 years old.

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Preparation and Recommendations

To ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience, travelers should bring a comfortable pair of shoes, a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery, and their original passport. Plus, a waterproof jacket or rain poncho, a warm jacket, and sun protection are recommended. Prohibited items include drinks in the vehicle, alcohol, and drugs.

| What to Bring | Prohibited Items |

|—————|——————|

| Comfortable shoes | Drinks in the vehicle |

| Camera | Alcohol and drugs |

| Original passport | |

Travelers should also be aware that the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 95 years old.

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Getting to the Starting Point

The tour begins with a pickup from the Centro Histórico in Cusco.

Guests will board a van for the 2-hour drive to Ollantaytambo. From there, they’ll catch a 30-minute train ride along the Urubamba River, enjoying scenic views of the Andes.

After arriving in Aguas Calientes, it’s a 20-minute walk to the bus station. The final leg of the journey is a 30-minute bus ride up to the entrance of Machu Picchu.

Throughout the transportation, guests will be accompanied by a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, who’ll provide commentary and ensure a smooth experience.

Tour Operator and Safety Measures

This tour is operated by a reputable local tour company with extensive experience in guiding visitors through Machu Picchu.

They prioritize safety and ensure a seamless experience for all participants. Some key safety measures include:

Providing comprehensive safety briefings before the tour starts.
Ensuring all transportation is well-maintained and operated by licensed drivers.
Equipping tour guides with first-aid kits and emergency communication devices in case of any incidents.

The tour company also maintains a high staff-to-guest ratio, allowing for personalized attention and prompt assistance throughout the journey.

Exploring the Machu Picchu Ruins

Upon arrival at Machu Picchu, visitors embark on an awe-inspiring guided tour of the ancient Inca citadel.

A knowledgeable guide leads the group through the site’s most significant structures, including the iconic Temple of the Sun, the Royal Quarters, and the astronomical observatories.

Travelers marvel at the intricate stonework, terraced agricultural fields, and the stunning natural setting.

The guide expertly weaves the history and significance of Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, into the tour, providing invaluable insights into the Inca civilization.

This immersive experience leaves visitors with a deeper appreciation for the cultural and architectural wonders of this iconic destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour is a small-group excursion, though the exact maximum group size is not specified. It’s designed to provide a more intimate experience compared to larger group tours.

Can I Bring a Drone to Machu Picchu?

No, drones are not permitted at Machu Picchu. The site prohibits the use of drones to protect the historic integrity and visitor experience of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors must leave their drones behind when visiting Machu Picchu.

Is There an Option to Purchase a Meal During the Tour?

The tour does not include meals, but travelers can purchase food during the stops in Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes. Meal options are available at local restaurants and cafes along the route.

Can I Leave My Luggage in the Vehicle During the Tour?

Guests can leave their luggage in the vehicle during the tour. The tour provider recommends only bringing what’s necessary, as there’s limited storage space on the trains and buses. Valuables should be kept with the traveler at all times.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

The tour does not have a minimum age requirement. However, it is not suitable for people over 95 years old, as the itinerary involves considerable walking and hiking.

The Sum Up

The Full-Day Small-Group Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco offers an exceptional opportunity to take in the rich history and grandeur of the Inca citadel. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and a focus on personalized attention, this tour ensures a memorable and well-organized experience for all participants. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, this tour is a must-consider for your Machu Picchu exploration.