Exploring the ancient wonder of Machu Picchu is a bucket-list item for many travelers. The full-day tour from Cusco promises an unforgettable experience, providing round-trip train tickets, guided tours, and convenient hotel pickups. With 97% of over 300 reviews recommending the tour, it’s clear this is a popular and well-organized excursion. However, there are a few logistical details to consider before embarking on this Andean adventure.
Key Points

- A full-day excursion to Machu Picchu from Cusco, priced at $334 per person, including roundtrip train tickets, admission, and transportation.
- The tour is led by professional guides and includes a pre-departure briefing, with a 97% recommendation rate based on 311 reviews.
- The itinerary includes hotel pickup, train ride to Aguas Calientes, bus transfer to Machu Picchu, a guided tour, and return journey.
- Inclusions cover round-trip train tickets, bus transportation, admission tickets, professional guide, hotel pickup/drop-off, snacks, and bottled water.
- Feedback suggests overall positive experiences, with some suggestions for improvement regarding communication, guide transitions, and lunch recommendations.
Tour Overview

The Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco is a full-day excursion that takes travelers on a journey to the iconic Inca citadel.
A full-day excursion that takes travelers on a journey to the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
Priced from $334 per person, the tour includes roundtrip train tickets, admission to Machu Picchu, and transportation to and from the site.
Led by professional guides, the experience also provides a pre-departure briefing, snacks, and bottled water.
With 311 reviews and a 97% recommendation rate, this tour offers a comprehensive and well-regarded way to explore the wonders of Machu Picchu.
Travelers can expect a seamless logistics with pickup, train, and bus transfers.
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Cusco
Included in the Tour

As part of the Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco, travelers receive a comprehensive package that covers the key aspects of the experience.
This includes round-trip train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, as well as bus transportation to and from the Machu Picchu archaeological site.
The tour also provides admission tickets to Machu Picchu, a professional guide to lead the over 2-hour tour, and hotel pickup and drop-off from Cusco.
Plus, the package includes snacks, bottled water, and gratuities, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable journey.
With these inclusions, travelers can focus on seeing the wonder of Machu Picchu.
Itinerary and Schedule
Travelers on the Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco start their day with pickup from their hotels around 5:30 a.m.
They’re then transported to the Ollantaytambo train station, from where they’ll ride the train to Aguas Calientes, arriving around 9:30 a.m.
A bus then takes them up to the Machu Picchu archaeological site for a guided tour lasting over 2 hours.
The return journey involves taking the bus back to Aguas Calientes, the train to Ollantaytambo, and finally back to Cusco.
Travelers should remember to bring their passports to access the site.
Important Information

Although the Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco includes a comprehensive package, travelers should be aware of a few important considerations.
First, it’s essential to bring a valid passport, as it’s required for site access.
Plus, guests should prepare for varying weather conditions, as temperatures can range from 40°F to 75°F.
Finally, the tour’s non-refundable policy emphasizes the importance of carefully planning and booking the experience.
Customer Feedback

Many travelers have expressed overwhelmingly positive experiences with the Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco. The tour has an overall rating of 4.9 based on 311 reviews, with 97% of travelers recommending it.
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, such as Miguel and Roy, for their expertise and service. The logistics are highlighted as smooth, with customers appreciating the pre-departure briefing and the overall customer service.
Suggestions include bringing snacks, water, sun protection, and hats. However, some complaints mention unclear circuit information and logistical issues, as well as guides pushing specific restaurants for lunch.
Positive Experiences

The Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco has consistently received overwhelmingly positive reviews from travelers.
Guests highlight the expertise and service of the tour guides, such as Miguel and Roy, who provide in-depth knowledge and ensure a smooth experience.
The seamless logistics, including efficient transportation and ticket management, are also frequently praised.
Travelers appreciate the convenience of the pre-departure briefing and the inclusion of snacks, water, and gratuities.
Key positive aspects include:
-
Knowledgeable and attentive tour guides
-
Efficient and well-organized logistics
-
Thoughtful inclusions that enhance the experience
Tips and Recommendations

To get the most out of the Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco, travelers should consider a few recommendations.
Booking the Vistadome train provides better views during the journey. Confirming hotel pickup details is crucial due to access restrictions. An early start helps avoid queues at the archaeological site.
Travelers should also be prepared for varying weather conditions, packing items like snacks, water, sunscreen, and hats.
Prepare for varying weather at Machu Picchu – pack snacks, water, sunscreen, and hats to ensure a comfortable visit.
Following these tips can enhance the overall experience and ensure a smooth and memorable visit to the iconic Machu Picchu.
Issues and Complaints

While the Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco generally receives positive feedback, some travelers have reported a few issues and complaints.
Some of the common concerns include:
-
Unclear communication regarding the tour itinerary and logistics, leading to confusion and frustration.
-
Issues with guide transitions, where travelers experienced a lack of continuity in the tour experience.
-
Complaints about guides pushing specific restaurants for lunch, which some found to be a commercial arrangement rather than a genuine recommendation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Possible to Visit Machu Picchu Without a Guided Tour?
Yes, it’s possible to visit Machu Picchu without a guided tour. Travelers can purchase admission tickets and make their own way to the site, allowing for more flexibility and independence in exploring this iconic Inca ruin.
Can I Visit Machu Picchu as a Day Trip From Cusco?
Yes, it’s possible to visit Machu Picchu as a day trip from Cusco. You can book transportation, train tickets, and entrance fees independently, allowing for a flexible schedule and avoiding the constraints of a guided tour.
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. This period offers clearer skies, fewer crowds, and more comfortable weather, though prices may be slightly higher. Travelers should plan ahead to avoid the rainy season.
Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements for the Machu Picchu Tour?
The tour has no age or fitness requirements, but visitors should be able to handle the high altitude and hike the steep terrain at Machu Picchu. It’s recommended that guests be in reasonable physical condition to fully enjoy the experience.
Is It Possible to Extend the Stay at Machu Picchu Beyond the Guided Tour?
Yes, visitors can extend their stay at Machu Picchu beyond the guided tour. They’ll need to purchase additional entry tickets, but this allows them to explore the site at their own pace after the tour concludes.
The Sum Up
The Full Day Tour to Machu Picchu from Cusco provides an unforgettable experience for travelers. With roundtrip train tickets, guided tours, and hotel pickups, the tour offers a smooth and well-organized adventure. Despite minor logistical issues, the overwhelming majority of customers highly recommend the tour, praising its excellent customer service. Travelers should come prepared with snacks and sun protection for this breathtaking journey to the iconic Machu Picchu site.
More Historical Tours in Cusco
- Cuzco: Walking Tour Cusco History, Architecture & Local Life
- Historical City Tour in Cusco | Private Tour |
- Cusco: Legends and History Night Tour With Pisco Sour
- Visit Sacsayhuaman: Where History Comes Alive
- From Cusco: Private Night Tour of the Historical Center
- Walking Tour of the Historic Center of Arequipa
More Tours in Cusco
- Peru & Bolivia Tour Package: 13 Days
- Cusco | Manu Jungle Excursion 7D/6N | Wonders of Manu
- From Cusco | Manu Jungle Tour 7D/6N | Wonders of Manu
- From Cusco | Manu Jungle Excursion 7D/6N | Wonders of Manu
- From Cusco | Manu Jungle Excursion 7D/6N | Wonders of Manu
- From Cusco | Manu Jungle Tour 7D/6N | Wonders of Manu
More Tour Reviews in Cusco
Still browsing? Here are more Cusco experiences we've covered recently
- Cusco: 7 Lagoons of Ausangate Full Day
- Peru & Bolivia Tour Package: 13 Days
- South 12 Days: Ica-Arequipa-Puno-Cusco 4 Star Hotel.
- Andean Inca Marriage 6 Days – Shared
- Peru and Bolivia 16 Days 15 Nights
- Andean Inca Wedding 6 Days Basic
- Extraordinary Perú 13D | Huacachina,Uros,Machu Picchu |
- From Cusco: 4 Days Trekking to Choquequirao
- Adventure 13D in Peru and Bolivia – Machu Picchu |Hotel☆☆☆☆|
- Cusco | Manu Jungle Excursion 7D/6N | Wonders of Manu
- From Cusco | Manu Jungle Tour 7D/6N | Wonders of Manu
- From Cusco | Manu Jungle Excursion 7D/6N | Wonders of Manu
