Machu Picchu: Full-Day Tour From Cusco With Optional Lunch

Machu Picchu, the iconic Inca citadel nestled high in the Andes, is a must-visit destination for any traveler to Peru. This full-day tour from Cusco provides a comprehensive experience, allowing visitors to explore the ancient ruins with the guidance of a knowledgeable local. From the scenic train ride to the in-depth tour, the package offers a seamless way to uncover the mysteries of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. But the real question is, what secrets will you uncover during your journey?

Key Points

• A comprehensive day trip from Cusco to the iconic Machu Picchu archaeological site, including round-trip transportation and a 2.5-hour guided tour.
• Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for convenient planning.
• Optional contemporary Peruvian lunch at Café Inkaterra restaurant in Aguas Calientes, providing a culinary experience.
• Insights into the rich history and architectural prowess of the Inca Empire, with the site being built as a holiday retreat.
• Exclusions include tips, ascent to Machu Picchu or Huayna Picchu mountain, and any items not specified in the itinerary, allowing for budget planning.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This Machu Picchu tour from Cusco is a comprehensive day trip that allows visitors to fully experience the iconic Inca citadel.

Priced from Kč 7,821 per person, the 15-hour tour includes live-guided commentary in multiple languages, flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and convenient round-trip transportation from Cusco to the archaeological site.

This comprehensive Machu Picchu tour from Cusco includes live-guided commentary, flexible booking, and round-trip transportation at Kč 7,821 per person.

The itinerary covers the train journey to Aguas Calientes, a bus transfer to Machu Picchu, and a 2.5-hour guided tour of the site’s key landmarks.

Travelers can also opt for a contemporary Peruvian lunch during the tour.

Travel Itinerary

The tour begins with pickup from a prearranged meeting point in Cusco, after which travelers embark on a train journey to Ollantaytambo station.

From there, they take a train to Aguas Calientes, enjoying scenic views of the Andes along the way. A 25-minute bus ride then transports them from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of Machu Picchu.

Once at the site, a 2.5-hour guided tour allows visitors to explore the Main Plaza, Royal Residence, Temple of the Three Windows, Circular Towers, sacred Sundial, and cemetery, providing insight into the Inca Empire’s architectural prowess.

Historical Context

Machu Picchu is believed to have been built by the Inca emperor Pachacuti in the 1450s as a holiday retreat.

The ancient citadel was later abandoned after the Spanish conquest, but it remained hidden by the surrounding jungle for centuries.

Its rediscovery in 1911 by American explorer Hiram Bingham offered invaluable insights into the riches and architectural prowess of the Inca Empire.

Today, Machu Picchu stands as a testament to the engineering feats and advanced urban planning of the Incas, captivating visitors with its mysterious charm and stunning natural setting.

Inclusions

The tour package includes several key components to ensure a comprehensive Machu Picchu experience.

A comprehensive Machu Picchu experience is ensured with key components included in the tour package.

It provides round-trip transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo and the train to Aguas Calientes, as well as the bus ride up to the ruins.

Admission to Machu Picchu is included, along with a 2.5-hour guided tour to explore the site’s highlights, like the Main Plaza, Royal Residence, and Circular Towers.

Travelers also have access to the Lima Tours office in Aguas Calientes for information and support.

The lunch option adds a contemporary Peruvian meal at the Café Inkaterra restaurant.

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Exclusions

While the tour package covers many aspects of the Machu Picchu experience, there are some exclusions to be aware of.

The tour doesn’t include other visits or items not specified in the itinerary, such as tips or the ascent to Machu Picchu or Huayna Picchu mountain. Guests will need to cover these additional costs on their own.

The tour also doesn’t provide lunch, unless the optional lunch at Café Inkaterra restaurant is selected.

Keeping these exclusions in mind will help travelers budget appropriately and plan for any supplementary expenses they may incur during their Machu Picchu adventure.

Transportation and Tickets

One key aspect of the Machu Picchu tour from Cusco is the transportation and tickets included.

The tour package provides:

The tour package provides seamless transportation and pre-purchased tickets for a hassle-free Machu Picchu experience.

1. Pickup and drop-off service from Cusco to Ollantaytambo station.

2. Round-trip train ticket to Aguas Calientes, offering scenic views of the Andes.

3. Bus entrance ticket for the 25-minute ride from Aguas Calientes to the Machu Picchu site.

4. Admission to Machu Picchu, allowing you to explore this iconic Inca citadel with a professional guide.

These seamless transportation arrangements and pre-purchased tickets ensure a hassle-free journey, allowing you to focus on the remarkable experience of visiting Machu Picchu.

Guided Tour

After the smooth transportation arrangements, the guided tour of Machu Picchu is the centerpiece of this experience.

A knowledgeable local guide leads the 2.5-hour tour, providing insights into the site’s Inca history and architecture. Visitors will explore key landmarks like the Main Plaza, Royal Residence, Temple of the Three Windows, Circular Towers, and the sacred Sundial.

The guide’s expertise brings Machu Picchu’s past to life, offering a deeper understanding of this iconic Inca citadel. The guided tour ensures travelers make the most of their time at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Dining Experience

If travelers select the lunch option, they can enjoy a contemporary Peruvian meal at the Café Inkaterra restaurant in Aguas Calientes.

The menu features:

1. Starter: Quinoa and vegetable salad with aji amarillo dressing.

2. Main Course: Grilled trout with Andean herbs, served with roasted potatoes and sautéed vegetables.

3. Dessert: Traditional suspiro de limeña, a meringue-based dessert.

4. Beverage: A refreshing chicha morada, a traditional Peruvian purple corn drink.

This lunch option provides an authentic taste of Peruvian cuisine, complementing the rich cultural experience of visiting Machu Picchu.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Possible to Visit Machu Picchu on Our Own?

Yes, it’s possible to visit Machu Picchu on your own. Visitors can purchase tickets, take public transportation, and explore the site independently without booking a guided tour.

Can We Extend Our Stay in Aguas Calientes?

Yes, visitors can extend their stay in Aguas Calientes after the tour. There are various accommodation options available for travelers who wish to spend more time exploring the town and the surrounding area at their own pace.

Are There Any Fitness Requirements for the Tour?

There are no specific fitness requirements for this Machu Picchu tour. It involves a bus ride and walking around the ancient site. Visitors should be able to handle moderate exertion but don’t need to be ultra-fit.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks to Machu Picchu?

Visitors are allowed to bring their own food and drinks to Machu Picchu. However, they must dispose of any trash properly and avoid littering, as maintaining the site’s cleanliness is important.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

This tour doesn’t offer specific discounts for seniors or students. However, there may be general admission discounts available at Machu Picchu itself. Check with the tour provider or visit the Machu Picchu website for the latest information on admission policies and any applicable discounts.

The Sum Up

This comprehensive Machu Picchu tour from Cusco offers a seamless way to experience the wonder of this iconic Inca citadel. With round-trip transportation, a scenic train ride, a guided tour, and the option to indulge in a Peruvian lunch, it’s a hassle-free adventure that allows you to fully learn about the history and beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

You can check availability for your dates here: