From Cusco: Machupicchu Full-Day Private Tour by Train

Exploring the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu is a bucket-list item for many travelers. This private full-day tour from Cusco offers a seamless and comprehensive experience, featuring private transfers, train tickets, and a guided tour. With a well-planned itinerary, visitors can enjoy the journey as much as the destination, taking in the stunning landscapes along the way. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour promises an unforgettable and hassle-free adventure that’s sure to leave you captivated by the wonder of Machu Picchu.

Key Points

• This full-day private tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu includes private transfers, train tickets, and a guided tour of the Inca citadel.
• The tour lasts around 15 hours and follows a circular route, with pickup in Cusco, train travel to Aguas Calientes, and a bus ride to Machu Picchu.
• The Expedition train ride provides stunning views of the Andes mountains and Urubamba River, while the bus ride to Machu Picchu offers breathtaking scenery.
• A 2.5-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu’s ruins ensures visitors gain a comprehensive understanding of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
• The tour is not suitable for people with certain medical conditions or over 95 years old, and strict access controls are in place to preserve Machu Picchu.

Tour Overview

This full-day private tour from Cusco takes visitors to the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, allowing them to experience the magic and beauty of this remarkable archaeological site.

The tour lasts around 15 hours and includes private transfers, train tickets, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu.

Guests will be picked up from their Cusco accommodations and driven to Ollantaytambo, where they’ll board a train to Aguas Calientes.

From there, a bus will take them up to the entrance of Machu Picchu, where a 2.5-hour guided tour awaits.

After exploring the ruins, the return journey follows the same route back to Cusco.

Itinerary

The tour’s itinerary begins with a pickup from the traveler’s Cusco accommodations, followed by a 2-hour drive to Ollantaytambo.

There, they board a 2-hour train ride to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu.

Next, a 30-minute bus ride takes them up to the entrance of the Inca citadel.

Once inside, a 2.5-hour guided tour allows visitors to explore the magical ruins.

After the tour, it’s a 30-minute bus ride back to Aguas Calientes, followed by a 2-hour train ride to Ollantaytambo and a 2-hour drive back to Cusco, where the tour ends with a dropoff at the traveler’s accommodations.

Pickup and Dropoff

The tour begins with a pickup from the traveler’s Cusco accommodations, providing a convenient start to the day’s adventure. The private transfer whisks guests away on a 2-hour drive to Ollantaytambo, where they’ll board the Expedition train for a scenic 2-hour ride to Aguas Calientes.

After arriving in the charming town at the base of Machu Picchu, travelers will then take a 30-minute bus up the mountain to the iconic Inca citadel.

At the end of the tour, the process reverses, with a bus ride back to Aguas Calientes, followed by the train to Ollantaytambo, and finally a 2-hour drive back to Cusco, where the tour concludes with a convenient drop-off at the starting point.

Train Rides

Travelers embark on two scenic train rides during the tour – first from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, and then back from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.

The expedition train journey takes approximately 2 hours each way, providing stunning views of the Andes mountains and the Urubamba River.

The train ride is a comfortable and relaxing way to reach Machu Picchu, with large panoramic windows allowing guests to fully enjoy the breathtaking landscape.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, travelers then take a short 30-minute bus ride up to the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, ready to explore this iconic archaeological wonder.

Bus Rides

After disembarking the train in Aguas Calientes, travelers board a 30-minute bus ride that climbs up the winding mountain roads to reach the entrance of the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. This scenic bus journey provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lush vegetation. The buses are well-maintained and equipped to handle the steep and narrow roads leading to the site.

Bus Schedule	Departure Time	Arrival Time	Frequency
First Bus	5:30 AM	6:00 AM	Every 10 minutes
Last Bus	5:30 PM	6:00 PM	Every 10 minutes

The bus ride is an integral part of the Machu Picchu experience, offering a thrilling yet comfortable way to reach this iconic destination.

Guided Tour

Upon arriving at Machu Picchu, visitors embark on a 2.5-hour guided tour that brings the Inca citadel’s rich history and architectural marvels to life.

A knowledgeable bilingual guide leads the private tour, providing insights and explanations that deepen the understanding of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

The guide points out the classic Inca stonework, elaborates on the site’s purpose and construction, and shares stories of the Inca civilization.

Visitors have the opportunity to ask questions and gain a comprehensive understanding of Machu Picchu’s significance.

The guided tour ensures travelers make the most of their time at this iconic ancient wonder, leaving with a profound appreciation for its cultural and historical importance.

Inclusions

The Machupicchu Full-Day Private Tour by Train includes private transfers, Expedition train tickets, and a Machu Picchu entrance ticket, along with the services of a private bilingual guide. This comprehensive package ensures a seamless and hassle-free experience for travelers.

Private transfers from Cusco to Ollantaytambo and back, providing door-to-door convenience.

Round-trip Expedition train tickets, offering a comfortable and scenic journey to and from Aguas Calientes.

Admission to the iconic Machu Picchu site, granting access to explore the Inca citadel.

A private bilingual guide who’ll provide insightful commentary and bring the history and significance of Machu Picchu to life.

With these inclusions, travelers can focus on soaking up the magic of Machu Picchu without worrying about logistics.

Important Information

This tour isn’t suitable for people with heart problems, afraid of heights, or over 95 years old.

Visitors must pass through the entrance control at Machu Picchu.

The tour operates rain or shine, ensuring a memorable experience regardless of weather conditions.

Access to Machu Picchu is strictly controlled. All visitors must present their valid entrance tickets and pass through the designated entry point. This is to ensure the preservation and protection of the Inca citadel.

Regardless of the weather, the tour will run as scheduled, allowing travelers to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Machu Picchu.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to Machu Picchu?

Visitors can bring their own food and drinks to Machu Picchu. However, they should be mindful of any restrictions or rules set by the site’s management to maintain the site’s cleanliness and preserve the archaeological area.

Is There a Weight Limit for Luggage on the Train?

The train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes has a weight limit of 25 pounds per passenger for checked luggage. Carry-on bags shouldn’t exceed 11 pounds. Exceeding these limits may result in additional fees.

Are There Any Medical Facilities at Machu Picchu?

There are no permanent medical facilities at Machu Picchu. However, first aid services are available on-site to address minor medical issues. Visitors with serious medical conditions should consult their doctor before visiting this high-altitude destination.

What Is the Dress Code for Visiting Machu Picchu?

When visiting Machu Picchu, travelers should dress comfortably in lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for outdoor activities. Closed-toe shoes are recommended to navigate the uneven terrain. Layering is advised as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day.

Can I Leave Machu Picchu and Re-Enter the Same Day?

Visitors can exit and re-enter Machu Picchu on the same day. However, they’ll need to keep their entrance ticket and pass through the entrance control again to re-enter the site. Leaving and re-entering may require additional time and planning.

Recap

This private full-day tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu offers a seamless and comprehensive experience.

With private transfers, train tickets, and a guided tour, it ensures a hassle-free and unforgettable visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The journey follows a well-planned route, providing a memorable exploration of the iconic Inca citadel.