From Ollantaytambo: 2-day Machu Picchu Tour

Exploring the wonders of Machu Picchu from Ollantaytambo is a must-do on any Peru itinerary. This 2-day tour offers an immersive experience, transporting travelers by train to the quaint town of Aguas Calientes before a guided tour of the iconic Inca site. Visitors can uncover the rich history and marvel at the impressive architecture, with options to conquer Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for unparalleled vistas. But the journey doesn’t end there – the tour concludes with a scenic return to Ollantaytambo, allowing visitors to further explore the Inca legacy.

Key Points

• The 2-day Machu Picchu tour from Ollantaytambo includes a train journey, overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, and a guided exploration of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• The tour offers an opportunity to visit the local market, stroll the streets of Aguas Calientes, and ensure a good night’s rest before the Machu Picchu exploration.
• The Machu Picchu exploration includes arriving before sunrise, a guided tour by a local expert, and visiting iconic structures like the Intihuatana and Temple of the Sun.
• Optional activities include climbing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, which require permits and a good level of fitness.
• The tour ends with a train ride back to Ollantaytambo and a bus transfer to Cusco, allowing for the exploration of Ollantaytambo’s Inca ruins and local markets.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Machu Picchu Tour offers a comprehensive 2-day experience, taking visitors from Ollantaytambo to the iconic Lost Citadel of the Incas.

Priced at CZK 12,128 per person, the tour highlights the rich history and stunning natural beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

On the first day, travelers will board a train to Aguas Calientes, where they’ll overnight before an early morning exploration of Machu Picchu.

Guided tours provide insight into the site’s Inca past, while optional activities like climbing Huayna Picchu offer breathtaking vistas.

The tour concludes with a train and bus ride back to Cusco, providing a seamless way to experience the wonders of Machu Picchu.

Itinerary Day 1

On the first day, travelers board a train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, where they’ll overnight before an early morning exploration of Machu Picchu. The train journey offers stunning views of the Andes mountains and lush valleys.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, the group will check into their hotel and receive a briefing for the next day’s activities.

The evening is free to explore the charming town, enjoy a local meal, or simply relax in preparation for the main event:

• Strolling the quaint streets of Aguas Calientes
• Visiting the local market for handicrafts and souvenirs
• Turning in early for a good night’s sleep before the big day

Aguas Calientes Accommodation

After arriving in Aguas Calientes, travelers spend the night at a hotel in preparation for the next day’s exploration of Machu Picchu.

Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to more upscale lodges, catering to a variety of preferences and budgets.

Many hotels in Aguas Calientes offer amenities like hot showers, comfortable beds, and scenic views of the surrounding mountains.

The hotels are conveniently located, making it easy to access the bus that takes visitors up to the Machu Picchu ruins.

Choosing the right Aguas Calientes hotel can enhance the overall experience and ensure a good night’s rest before the big day at the iconic Inca citadel.

Machu Picchu Exploration

Eager visitors arrive at Machu Picchu before sunrise, ready to experience the majesty of this ancient Inca citadel.

With the guidance of a knowledgeable local expert, they’ll uncover the site’s rich history and hidden gems during a comprehensive 2.5-hour tour.

The guided exploration takes them through:

• The iconic terraced structures and awe-inspiring stone architecture
• The Intihuatana, a mysterious ritualistic stone structure aligned with the sun
• The Temple of the Sun, a sacred site where the Incas worshiped their sun god

Visitors leave Machu Picchu with a deeper understanding and appreciation for this captivating World Heritage Site, its cultural significance, and the ingenuity of its ancient builders.

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Optional Activities

Visitors keen on further exploration can choose to climb either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, both offering breathtaking vistas of the main archaeological site.

Huayna Picchu, the iconic peak towering over Machu Picchu, requires a permit and involves a steep, 1-hour hike up stone steps. This daring climb rewards adventurers with a bird’s-eye view of the entire citadel.

Alternatively, the Machu Picchu Mountain trail is less crowded and provides panoramic perspectives of the valley below.

Both options require a good level of fitness and a permit, which should be secured in advance.

For those seeking a more relaxed experience, exploring the charming town of Aguas Calientes is also an enjoyable option.

Return to Ollantaytambo

Following the tour of Machu Picchu, travelers take the train back to Ollantaytambo before continuing on to Cusco.

The train ride offers breathtaking views of the Andean mountains and valleys.

Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, travelers:

• Board a bus for the transfer to their Cusco hotel
• Have the opportunity to explore the Inca ruins and charming streets of Ollantaytambo
• Can visit local markets and shops to purchase souvenirs and handicrafts

This efficient return journey allows travelers to make the most of their time, transitioning seamlessly from the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu to the historic city of Cusco, the heart of the former Inca Empire.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The Machu Picchu tour package includes a round-trip train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu, a bus ticket for transportation up and down the site, and the entrance fee to Machu Picchu.

It also provides a guided group tour in both Spanish and English.

However, the package doesn’t cover accommodation in Aguas Calientes and Cusco or meals and beverages. Travelers will need to arrange these separately.

Plus, optional activities like climbing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountains come at an extra cost.

The tour also doesn’t include the transfer from Cusco to Ollantaytambo on the first day.

Price and Booking

The Machu Picchu tour costs Kč 12,128 per person and can be booked through the tour operator’s website or by contacting their customer service team.

To secure your spot, you’ll need to provide:

• A $500 deposit per person
• Copy of your passport
• Contact information

Once the booking is confirmed, you’ll receive detailed information about the tour itinerary, packing list, and any additional details you’ll need to know.

The final payment is due 30 days before the tour departure date. Don’t wait too long to book, as this popular tour often sells out well in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book This Tour for a Group Larger Than 4 People?

Yes, this tour can accommodate larger groups. The tour operator offers flexible group sizes and customizable options to suit the needs of your party. Inquire about group discounts and availability when booking.

Is It Possible to Start the Tour From a Different Location?

Yes, it’s possible to start the tour from a different location. However, the price and inclusions may vary depending on the starting point. Travelers should inquire with the tour operator about alternative departure options and any associated costs.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation policy allows for a full refund if cancelled at least 30 days prior to the tour. Cancellations within 30 days are subject to a 50% penalty. There are no refunds for no-shows.

Is There an Option to Upgrade the Train Ticket?

The tour provider offers an option to upgrade the train ticket. Travelers can choose to ride in the Vistadome or Hiram Bingham train, which provide more amenities and a more comfortable journey, though at an additional cost.

Can I Store My Luggage During the Machu Picchu Visit?

Yes, travelers can store their luggage at the train station or hotel in Aguas Calientes during the Machu Picchu visit. Some hotels may offer luggage storage services for a small fee. This allows visitors to explore the site hands-free.

Recap

The 2-day Machu Picchu tour from Ollantaytambo provides an immersive experience at the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Travelers can explore the quaint town of Aguas Calientes, discover the rich history of Machu Picchu, and choose optional activities like climbing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.

The tour concludes with a train journey back to Ollantaytambo and a transfer to Cusco, allowing visitors to further discover the Inca legacy.

You can check availability for your dates here: