Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco
- Machu Picchu
- Recommended by 100% of travelers
Full day
12 Travellers
2450 m /
Easy
Machu Picchu By Train – 1 Day Tour from Cusco
On our Machu Picchu By Train 1-Day Tour, you will enjoy a full day exploring the legendary Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu on a complete, worry-free journey departing from Cusco.
This all-inclusive experience allows you to discover one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites alongside a knowledgeable local guide, who will share fascinating insights into the construction of Machu Picchu, its historical significance, and what daily life was like for the ancient Incas.
Designed with a relaxed, non-strenuous pace, this tour is ideal for first-time visitors, families, and solo travelers who want to experience Machu Picchu comfortably, without long hikes or physical demands.
Inclusions
Included
- Professional Bilingual Guide: Your journey is led by a highly trained, licensed English-speaking guide with formal studies from top tourism institutes in Peru. Our guides combine deep historical knowledge, professionalism, and a genuine passion for sharing the legacy of the Andes.
- Machu Picchu Entrance Ticket: We include your official entrance ticket to Circuit 2, the most complete and highly recommended route inside Machu Picchu. In the rare event this circuit is unavailable, we will contact you within 24 hours to arrange entrance to Circuit 1 or 3, ensuring an exceptional visit.
- Round-Trip Bus to Machu Picchu: Enjoy a comfortable round-trip bus service from Aguas Calientes to the Machu Picchu citadel and back after your guided tour.
- Hotel Pick-Up in Cusco: Your guide will meet you directly at the reception of your hotel or Airbnb. Please wait inside, as Cusco mornings can be very cold. For easy identification, your guide will be wearing a red jacket with the Salas Travel Peru logo.
- Private Transportation to Ollantaytambo: Travel in comfort aboard our private, spacious van from Cusco to Ollantaytambo train station. The route reaches altitudes of up to 3,700 meters, and our vehicle is equipped with an emergency oxygen tank for your safety.
- Expedition Train: Ollantaytambo → Aguas Calientes: Experience a scenic journey through the Sacred Valley aboard the Expedition-class train, offering large windows and stunning views along the way.
- Guided Tour Inside Machu Picchu: Discover the most important areas of the citadel during a 2-hour guided tour. Learn about Inca temples, agricultural terraces, royal quarters, ceremonial spaces, and the advanced engineering that made Machu Picchu possible.
- Return Train: Aguas Calientes → Ollantaytambo: After your visit, you will board the Expedition train back to Ollantaytambo.
- Private Transfer Back to Cusco: Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, our driver will be waiting to take you directly back to your hotel in Cusco.
- First Aid Kit & Altitude Support: Our guides carry a complete first aid kit at all times, including basic supplies to assist with minor injuries or altitude-related discomfort.
- 24/7 Customer Support: Our team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Whether before, during, or after your tour, we are always ready to assist you.
Not Included
- Meals
Machu Picchu day trip from cusco Itinerary
Early Transfer from Cusco to Ollantaytambo
Your adventure begins with an early hotel pick-up in Cusco between 4:00 a.m. and 4:30 a.m. You will travel in a private, comfortable vehicle to the Ollantaytambo train station.
The drive takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving you time to relax or rest before the day truly begins.
Our team takes care of all logistics so you can start your Machu Picchu experience stress-free and on schedule.
Scenic Train Journey to Aguas Calientes
Upon arrival at the station, our staff will assist you and ensure you board the correct train and carriage.
Your Expedition-class train departs around 6:10 a.m. or 6:40 a.m., traveling along the Urubamba River and through breathtaking Andean landscapes.
The journey lasts about 1.5 hours and offers spectacular scenery throughout the ride.
Bathrooms are available onboard for your comfort.
Meet Your Guide in Aguas Calientes
Once you arrive in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), step outside the train station where your guide will be waiting, holding a sign with the Machu Picchu Andean logo or your name.
You will receive important instructions and have approximately 20 minutes to prepare before continuing. From this point on, you will be fully accompanied by a certified and experienced guide, ensuring a smooth, safe, and enriching visit.
Bus Ride Up to Machu Picchu
Next, you will board the Consettur bus for a 25–30 minute ride up to the main entrance of Machu Picchu.
The scenic zig-zag road offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Before boarding, we recommend purchasing water and light snacks to stay energized during your visit.
Estimated arrival at Machu Picchu: between 9:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.
(Schedules may vary for last-minute bookings.)
Guided Tour Inside Machu Picchu
Your entrance ticket usually includes Circuit 2, the most complete and recommended route inside the citadel.
If Circuit 2 is unavailable, Circuit 1, 3, or 4 will be assigned depending on availability.
Enjoy a 2 to 2.5-hour guided tour exploring temples, terraces, royal residences, and ceremonial plazas. Your guide will explain the engineering mastery, spiritual beliefs, and daily life of the Inca civilization.
Don’t forget:
Get your Machu Picchu passport stamp, a memorable keepsake from this iconic site.
Important note:
As of 2025, the Inca Bridge hike is separate from the main circuits and must be requested in advance at the time of booking.
Bus Down to Aguas Calientes
After completing your guided visit, take the return bus back to Aguas Calientes (approximately 25 minutes).
Your guide will recommend restaurants and lunch options.
Guides have lunch included at specific local restaurants, and guests are welcome to join if they wish.
Free Time in Aguas Calientes
Enjoy free time to explore the town at your own pace. Walk through local artisan markets, relax at a café, or simply enjoy the surrounding mountain scenery before heading back to the station.
Return Train to Ollantaytambo
Board the Expedition train for your return journey, usually departing around 2:30 p.m. or 3:20 p.m.
After approximately 1.5 hours, you will arrive at Ollantaytambo, where our driver will be waiting at the station exit.
Tourist Transport Back to Cusco
The final part of your journey is a comfortable private transfer back to Cusco, lasting about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Estimated arrival in Cusco: between 6:45 p.m. and 7:20 p.m.
We can drop you off directly at your hotel or near the Plaza de Armas if you prefer to enjoy dinner in the city.
Packing List
Essentials
Passport
Bag
Bottle Water
Money Cash in Soles
Clothing
Rain jacket or rain poncho
long-sleeve trekking shirts
short-sleeve shirts
Pants
Deport Pants
Rain Jacket
Hat
Sunglasses
Beanie
Gloves
Short
Shoes
Additional Items
Sunscreen
Insect Repelent
Things to Know Before Visiting Machu Picchu
Important Information
Passport required: You must bring your original passport to enter Machu Picchu.
No re-entry allowed: Once you exit the site, re-entry is not permitted, even if you have not used the full time allowed.
Limited ticket availability: Machu Picchu has a daily limit of 5,600 visitors. We strongly recommend booking this tour at least two months in advance.
Non-refundable tickets: All Machu Picchu entrance tickets, including Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain, are non-refundable, non-transferable, and cannot be rescheduled, in accordance with regulations of the Peruvian Ministry of Culture.
Group size: This tour operates with a maximum of 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.
Arrival in Cusco: Travelers must arrive in Cusco at least one day before the tour departure.
Guided tour duration: Your guided visit inside Machu Picchu lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Sunrise not included: This one-day tour does not allow you to see the sunrise at Machu Picchu, as the earliest arrival time is around 8:00 a.m.
Machu Picchu Mountain: Climbing Machu Picchu Mountain is not possible on a one-day tour due to time restrictions.
Passport stamp: Machu Picchu offers a special commemorative stamp for your passport if you wish.
Physical Requirements & Safety
This tour is suitable for couples, families, friends, and children.
Travelers should have a moderate level of physical fitness.
Comfortable walking shoes or lightweight hiking shoes are highly recommended.
Please avoid jumping or risky selfie poses, as these are the main cause of accidents in the area.
Strong insect repellent is recommended due to mosquitoes in the region.
Bathrooms
No bathrooms are available inside Machu Picchu.
Restrooms are located outside the entrance gate and cost approximately 2 Peruvian soles.
Be sure to use the facilities before entering the site.
Food & Water
There are no food stalls inside Machu Picchu.
Bringing your own water is recommended, preferably in reusable bottles or canteens, as Machu Picchu promotes environmental conservation and discourages single-use plastics.
Small snacks are allowed, but please be discreet and never litter.
Prohibited Items Inside Machu Picchu
Walking sticks are not allowed unless medically necessary.
Drones, tripods, and selfie sticks are strictly prohibited.
Professional cameras are not allowed without a special permit (permits exceed USD 300).
Large backpacks are not permitted. Only small backpacks are allowed, so please leave large bags at your hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Canes are permitted for elderly travelers only if they have a rubber tip (metal tips are not allowed).
Strikes & Roadblocks (Important Notice)
Strikes and roadblocks can occasionally occur in Peru and may affect train services and access routes to Machu Picchu.
If a strike occurs on the day of your tour, we will transfer you to Aguas Calientes the night before your scheduled visit to ensure you can still enter Machu Picchu as planned.
After visiting the citadel:
You will hike approximately 3 hours from Aguas Calientes to Hydroelectric.
From there, we will drive about 7 hours back to Cusco.
Estimated arrival at your hotel in Cusco is around 11:00 p.m.
We will always prioritize your safety and do our best to ensure your experience continues with minimal disruption.
FAQs
How To Book a Machu Picchu Guided Tour With MACHU PICCHU ANDEAN?
Booking your Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco is quick and easy:
Click the BOOK NOW button on our website.
Select your preferred travel date.
Complete your personal information.
Pay your deposit using a debit or credit card.
Once your deposit is confirmed, your reservation is 100% guaranteed. The remaining balance is paid in Cusco at our office one day before the tour.
What About the Outstanding Balance?
The remaining balance can be paid:
In cash (USD or Peruvian soles) at our Cusco office one day before the tour
By credit card, subject to a small merchant fee
We recommend paying in cash to avoid extra charges and speed up the check-in process.
May I Change the Departure Date After the Permits Have Been Purchased?
Unfortunately, no. Once Machu Picchu entrance tickets and train tickets are issued, date changes are not permitted by the Peruvian government.
If you need to reschedule:
New Machu Picchu tickets must be purchased
Train companies apply a penalty fee
The additional cost is USD 100 per person, subject to ticket availability for the new date
What Happens if There Are No Tickets Available for Circuit 2?
If Circuit 2 is sold out on the official Ministry of Culture system, SALAS TRAVEL PERU cannot obtain it.
In this case, we organize the following alternative:
Purchase Circuit 3 + Circuit 1
Guided visit on Circuit 3 (2 hours)
Independent visit on Circuit 1 (1 hour)
This combination still allows you to see the main viewpoints and most important areas of Machu Picchu.
An additional fee of USD 45 applies for the second ticket.
Do I Need To Bring My Original Passport on the Machu Picchu 1-Day Tour?
Yes. You must carry your original passport, and it must match the document used to purchase your Machu Picchu ticket.
Your passport will be checked at the train station and again at the Machu Picchu entrance.
What Circuit Will Your Machu Picchu Day Trip Follow?
MACHU PICCHU ANDEAN always purchases Circuit 2 whenever available, as it is the most complete route inside Machu Picchu.
It includes both upper and lower sectors, the classic viewpoint, temples, plazas, and main archaeological areas.
If Circuit 2 is unavailable, we will inform you and arrange the best alternative.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu?
The best months are April, May, September, October, and November, offering:
Pleasant weather
Clear mountain views
Fewer crowds
Lush green landscapes
That said, we operate Machu Picchu tours every day of the year.
Can I Book the Machu Picchu Tour With My Expired Passport?
Yes.
If you still have your expired passport, send us a copy and we can reserve your ticket.
If not, another government-issued ID with the same name is acceptable.
Once you receive your new passport, send it to us so we can update your reservation.
How About the Student Discount?
According to Peruvian government regulations:
Ages 11–17: USD 20 discount
Ages 2–11: USD 30 discount
University students (18+): Must present a valid student ID
Passport and student ID copies must be sent at the time of booking.
Is This Day Trip to Machu Picchu Safe for Children?
Yes. This tour is family-friendly and suitable for children.
Machu Picchu has well-maintained paths, and children receive special discounts. Contact us for a personalized quote.
How Long in Advance Should I Book the Machu Picchu Day Trip?
Our booking recommendations:
High season (May–August): 2 months in advance
April, September, November, December: 1 month in advance
January & February: A few days in advance
Holidays (July 28, Holy Week, Christmas, New Year): Book as early as possibl
Can I Do This Machu Picchu Train Tour Alone?
Yes. Solo travelers are welcome.
The private solo service is USD 350, including a private guide for a personalized experience.
Can I Do This Machu Picchu Train Tour Alone?
It is technically possible but not recommended.
The hike takes about 3 hours, and entrance times are very early. Most travelers arrive too tired to fully enjoy the guided visit afterward.
Is It Possible to Climb Machu Picchu Mountain on This Day Trip?
It is technically possible but not recommended.
The hike takes about 3 hours, and entrance times are very early. Most travelers arrive too tired to fully enjoy the guided visit afterward.
I Am Traveling Alone. Can I Join a Group Tour?
Yes. Please email us first to confirm group availability for your date. If space is available, we will gladly include you.
I’m 70 Years Old. Can I Make This Tour?
Yes. Many travelers aged 70+ have completed this tour comfortably.
The route includes steps and mild inclines but nothing extreme. A private tour is recommended for a relaxed pace.
Can I Fly the Same Day as the Tour?
It is possible but not recommended.
Train delays are common, and there is a risk of missing your flight. We advise flying the following day.
What Will I See During the Machu Picchu Day Tour?
Highlights include:
The Guardhouse (classic panoramic view)
Temple of the Sun
Main Inca House
Intihuatana (sundial area)
Temple of the Condor
Water Mirrors
Your guide will explain the history and significance of each site.
Do I Need To Be Very Physically Fit?
No special fitness level is required.
This is an easy-rated tour, with walking on well-maintained archaeological paths. Anyone with basic mobility can enjoy it comfortably.
