Machu Picchu Full Day
- Duration
- Full Day
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Group
- Private or group
- Language
- Spanish
- Max altitude
- 3,762 m.s.n.m
About this tour
An unforgettable experience from Cusco to an Andean wonder of the world
Get ready for a magical day exploring one of the planet’s most important archaeological gems: Machu Picchu, the legendary Inca citadel hidden amidst mountains and clouds.
You should choose the Machu Picchu Full Day tour because it is the most practical and exciting way to experience one of the wonders of the world in a single day. Enjoy a train ride through breathtaking scenery and discover the history and mystery of the Inca city with a comprehensive guided tour. It is ideal for those who want to experience the magic of Machu Picchu within a short timeframe.
Itinerary
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Early in the morning, our team will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco (3,350 m) and take you by private transport to the station. From there, your journey to Machu Picchu begins.
The trip continues by train from Ollantaytambo, passing through breathtaking scenery—rushing rivers, towering mountains, small hamlets, and cultivated fields that reflect the natural richness of the Sacred Valley. Enjoy every moment gazing out the window... you are getting closer and closer to the wonder.
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Upon arriving in Aguas Calientes (2,000 m), you will board the tourist bus that ascends to the entrance of Machu Picchu (2,400 m). At the summit, history comes to life.
Accompanied by your private Spanish-speaking guide, you will explore this magical site during a two-hour tour. You will visit temples, plazas, agricultural terraces, and viewpoints that exist in perfect harmony with nature. Every step offers a connection to the glorious past of the Incas.
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After the visit, we return by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you will have free time for lunch and to stroll through the picturesque town. Then, we will take the train back to Ollantaytambo, and finally, you will return to your hotel in Cusco by private vehicle, with a heart full of unforgettable memories.
Included
- Private transfers between Cusco and the bus station (round-trip)
- Bimodal tourist train (Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo – Cusco)
- Shuttle bus to and from Machu Picchu
- Official entrance ticket to the Inca citadel
- Private professional guide (Spanish-speaking)
- Continuous assistance throughout the experience
Not included
- Meals (lunch, snacks, or drinks)
- Travel insurance
- Voluntary tips
Information and recommendations
- Early start: Departures are typically scheduled between 3:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m. to align with train and bus logistics. Make sure to get plenty of rest the night before.
- Light daypack: Bring only a small backpack (maximum 5 kg) containing a rain poncho, a light jacket, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle.
- Original physical documents: You must carry your original passport or valid national ID card (the one used when purchasing your tickets). You will be asked to present it at train and bus checkpoints and upon entering the sanctuary.
- Lunch arrangements: Since lunch is not included, plan to eat in the town of Aguas Calientes either before or after your guided tour of the Inca citadel.
Frequently asked questions
What is the "bimodal" train service?
It is a combined transport service operated by the train company itself: the leg from Cusco to Ollantaytambo is covered by one of the company's tourist buses, allowing for a direct transfer to the train bound for Aguas Calientes (with the same process applying to the return journey).
Is lunch included in this excursion?
No. The itinerary does not include meals, but you will have free time in the town of Aguas Calientes to have lunch at one of the many local restaurants.
Is it possible to climb Huayna Picchu on this day trip?
Generally, it is not recommended for one-day tours due to rigid train schedules and the fact that the hike requires an additional two to three hours of travel time.
At what time do you get back to the city of Cusco?
The return journey by train usually takes place in the mid-to-late afternoon, arriving in Cusco city center at night (approximately between 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., depending on the scheduled train service).
Before you travel
Important information about Machu Picchu
Limited-capacity tickets
Entry to the citadel has a daily capacity set by the Ministry of Culture. In high season (May to September) tickets sell out weeks or months ahead. We book your entrance as soon as you confirm.
Original passport
Bring the same document used to buy the tickets: it is checked on the train, the bus and at the Machu Picchu gate. Students: valid university ID.
Circuits and entry time
Visits follow signposted circuits at the time printed on your ticket. Arrive at the gate 30 minutes early. There are no restrooms inside the citadel: they are next to the entrance.
What to bring (and what not)
Small backpack, rain poncho, sunscreen, insect repellent, hat and water in a reusable bottle. Single-use plastics, food, drones, tripods and walking poles without rubber tips are not allowed.
Altitude and weather
Machu Picchu sits at 2,430 m (7,970 ft), lower than Cusco (3,399 m). The climate is subtropical: strong morning sun and sudden showers, especially from November to March.
Train and bus
You travel by train to Aguas Calientes (from Ollantaytambo or Cusco station) and then take a 25-minute bus up to the entrance. We coordinate schedules, tickets and transfers.
Conservation rules
Touching or climbing the walls, leaving the trails, smoking and feeding animals are not allowed. You will visit the citadel with an official licensed guide.
Inca Trail
Inca Trail permits are limited and issued by name (non-transferable). The trail closes every February for maintenance; during that month we offer alternatives such as Salkantay or the train tour.
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