Exploring the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu is a must-do for many travelers to Peru. The Machu Picchu Full Day tour from Cusco offers a comprehensive experience, whisking visitors from their hotel to the site via train. With a professional guide leading the way, travelers can uncover the fascinating history and engineering marvels of this ancient wonder. While the tour’s full itinerary promises an unforgettable day, the true highlight awaits those who step foot within Machu Picchu’s mystical realm.
Key Points
- A full-day tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu, priced from £309.48 per person, with hotel pickup, round-trip transportation, and a 1.5-hour scenic train ride.
- The tour includes a 2.5-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu’s key sites, such as the Sun and Condor temples.
- Essentials to bring include passport or ID, sunglasses, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes, with a strict prohibition on littering.
- Arrival in Aguas Calientes offers restaurants and relaxation spots, followed by a bus to the train station and a scenic train ride back to Cusco.
- Last-minute reservations should confirm availability via email, and correct contact information with country code and WhatsApp availability is required.
Tour Overview and Details
This Machu Picchu full-day tour from Cusco offers an immersive experience at the iconic Inca citadel.
Priced from £309.48 per person, the 14-hour excursion includes hotel pickup, a scenic 1.5-hour train ride to Aguas Calientes, and a 2.5-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu’s key sites.
Travelers can explore the Sun and Condor temples with an English or Spanish-speaking guide.
The tour provides round-trip transportation, train tickets, and Machu Picchu entrance fees.
Includes round-trip transportation, train tickets, and Machu Picchu entrance fees for a hassle-free experience.
Travelers should bring essentials like a passport, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a flexible payment option are available.
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Itinerary
The tour begins with pickup from your hotel in Cusco between 3:40 a.m. and 4:00 a.m.
You’ll embark on a 1.5-hour scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes from Ollantaytambo station.
Upon arrival, you’ll go on a 2.5-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu, including visits to the Sun and Condor temples.
After the tour, you’ll take the bus back to the train station and travel by train to Cusco, followed by a hotel transfer.
Excess luggage charges and alcoholic drinks are available for purchase throughout the day.
Inclusions
The tour includes a professional guide, bus transportation to and from Machu Picchu, hotel pickup, train tickets to Machu Picchu, and entrance to the historical site.
Plus, the package includes transfers from Cusco to Ollantaytambo and from the train stations to the Cusco bus station.
However, it’s important to note that:
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Excess luggage charges may apply.
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Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase.
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Guests are responsible for bringing their own passport or ID, sunglasses, sunscreen, water, comfortable clothes, and cash.
Aguas Calientes
Small town serving as a prelude to the tour, Aguas Calientes offers various restaurants and relaxation spots for visitors to dine and rest after their Machu Picchu visit.
Situated at the base of the mountain, the town provides a convenient launching point to explore the ancient Inca citadel.
Visitors can enjoy local cuisine, browse shops, or simply unwind before the journey back.
With its picturesque setting and laid-back atmosphere, Aguas Calientes sets the stage for the unforgettable Machu Picchu experience.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Information
Visitors should bring their passport or ID, sunglasses, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes on the tour.
Littering is strictly prohibited.
Lastly, ensure to provide the correct phone number with the country code and availability on WhatsApp when booking.
If making a last-minute reservation, check availability with the supplier via email before booking to secure your spot.
Following these simple tips will ensure a smooth and enjoyable Machu Picchu experience.
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Bring passport or ID
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No littering
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Provide correct contact info
Scenic Train Journey
A scenic 1.5-hour train journey takes visitors from Ollantaytambo station to the town of Aguas Calientes, which serves as a prelude to the Machu Picchu tour.
The train ride offers breathtaking views of the Andes mountains and the Urubamba River as it winds through the Sacred Valley. Travelers can relax and enjoy the picturesque landscape during the comfortable ride.
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, visitors will find various restaurants and relaxation spots to rest up before the guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu ruins.
Guided Tour of Machu Picchu
Upon arrival at Machu Picchu, the guided tour takes visitors on a 2.5-hour exploration of the iconic Inca citadel.
The tour includes:
A visit to the Sun Temple, a glimpse of the Condor Temple, and insights into the engineering marvels of Machu Picchu.
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A visit to the Sun Temple, where the Incas worshipped the sun god Inti.
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A glimpse of the Condor Temple, a sacred structure aligned with the movement of the condor, a revered bird in Inca mythology.
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Insights into the engineering marvels and architectural wonders that allowed the Incas to construct this remarkable site high in the Andes mountains.
Throughout the tour, the professional guide provides historical context and local perspectives, enhancing visitors’ understanding and appreciation of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Returning to Cusco
After the guided tour of Machu Picchu, visitors board the bus that takes them back to the train station in Aguas Calientes.
They then board the train for the 1.5-hour scenic journey back to Ollantaytambo station. From there, a transfer awaits to take them back to their hotel in Cusco.
The journey home is a chance to reflect on the awe-inspiring experience of visiting the ancient Inca citadel. Travelers can savor the memories and photographs while enjoying the picturesque countryside.
This full-day tour provides a comprehensive Machu Picchu experience with seamless transportation and guidance throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Machu Picchu?
The best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. This period offers clearer skies, milder temperatures, and fewer crowds, providing an optimal experience exploring the ancient Inca citadel.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks Into Machu Picchu?
Visitors can bring their own food and drinks into Machu Picchu, but excessive amounts of alcohol or loud behavior are not allowed. It’s best to pack light, non-perishable snacks and water to enjoy during the visit.
Is There an Option to Hike up to Machu Picchu Instead of Taking the Train?
Yes, there’s an option to hike up to Machu Picchu instead of taking the train. Hikers can take the Inca Trail, which takes 4 days, or the shorter Inca Quarry Trail, which takes 2 days to reach the site.
How Fit Do I Need to Be to Fully Enjoy the Machu Picchu Experience?
To fully enjoy the Machu Picchu experience, you don’t need to be an experienced hiker. However, a moderate level of fitness is recommended to handle the terrain and elevation. Proper preparation and pacing can ensure a comfortable and memorable visit.
Are There Any Restrictions on the Type of Camera I Can Bring?
There are no strict restrictions on the type of camera you can bring to Machu Picchu. However, it’s best to avoid bulky professional gear that could be cumbersome during the visit. A compact or mirrorless camera is ideal for capturing the breathtaking sights comfortably.
The Sum Up
This Machu Picchu full-day tour from Cusco offers a seamless and unforgettable experience. With early hotel pickup, scenic train ride, guided exploration of the iconic site, and all necessary inclusions, it’s the perfect way to witness the awe-inspiring beauty and engineering marvels of this ancient Incan citadel. The tour provides a hassle-free opportunity to take in the magnificence of Machu Picchu.
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