Full Day Tour to Machu Picchu From Cusco

Exploring the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu is a bucket-list experience for many travelers visiting Peru. The full-day tour from Cusco offers an immersive journey through the region’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. From the train ride to Aguas Calientes to the guided tour of the iconic ruins, this comprehensive excursion promises a profound understanding of the Incas’ architectural and engineering marvels. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, this tour presents a remarkable opportunity to uncover the mysteries that lie within Machu Picchu’s mystical setting.

Key Points

• The tour offers a full-day experience to discover the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu from Cusco.
• The tour includes a 2-hour journey to Ollantaytambo, followed by a 1-hour 40-minute train ride to Aguas Calientes.
• Visitors will take a bus to the Machu Picchu citadel and enjoy a 2-hour guided tour of the iconic Inca ruins.
• The return journey involves a train ride from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and a transfer back to Cusco, arriving around 9:00 pm.
• Machu Picchu tickets must be booked in advance, and the tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This full-day tour from Cusco provides travelers the opportunity to discover the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu and explore the captivating Peruvian jungle.

Guests will witness the best architectural work of the Incas and enjoy the magic of their rich culture.

The itinerary includes a 2-hour journey to Ollantaytambo train station, followed by a 1-hour 40-minute train ride to Aguas Calientes.

From there, a bus takes visitors to the Machu Picchu citadel, where they’ll embark on a 2-hour guided tour of the iconic ruins.

Afterward, the group will descend to Aguas Calientes and board the return train to Ollantaytambo before transferring back to Cusco, arriving around 9:00 pm.

Itinerary Details

The tour departs Cusco at 4:00 am, beginning the journey to Ollantaytambo train station, a 2-hour drive away.

From there, guests board the PeruRail train for a 1-hour 40-minute ride to the town of Aguas Calientes.

A bus then transports the group to the Machu Picchu citadel, where they embark on a 2-hour guided tour of the iconic Inca ruins.

After exploring the ancient city, the group descends by bus back to Aguas Calientes to board the return train to Ollantaytambo.

From there, they’re transferred back to Cusco, arriving around 9:00 pm.

Travel to Ollantaytambo

The tour departs Cusco at 4:00 am, beginning the 2-hour drive to Ollantaytambo train station.

During the journey, travelers will witness the stunning Andean landscapes unfold before their eyes. The route takes them through rural villages, past towering snow-capped peaks, and along the banks of rushing rivers.

Once they reach Ollantaytambo, the group will disembark and make their way to the train station. This historic town, with its Inca-built terraces and stone structures, is the last stop before the train ride to Aguas Calientes.

With anticipation building, the travelers will soon board the PeruRail train for the 1 hour and 40 minute journey towards the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu.

Train to Aguas Calientes

From Ollantaytambo, travelers board the PeruRail train for the 1 hour and 40 minute journey towards the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu, leaving the Andean landscapes behind as they make their way to the town of Aguas Calientes. The train ride offers stunning views of the Urubamba River and the surrounding mountains. During the journey, travelers can relax and enjoy the scenery, or take advantage of the train’s amenities, such as the dining car and observation decks. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, travelers will disembark and take a bus up to the entrance of Machu Picchu, ready to explore the iconic Inca site.

Feature	Description
Duration	1 hour 40 minutes
Scenery	Urubamba River, Andean mountains
Amenities	Dining car, observation decks
Arrival	Aguas Calientes town
Next Step	Take bus to Machu Picchu

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Bus to Machu Picchu

Upon arriving in Aguas Calientes, travelers take a short bus ride to the entrance of Machu Picchu.

The bus journey up the winding mountain roads offers breathtaking views of the Urubamba River valley and the surrounding Andes peaks. The bus service is efficient, with buses departing regularly to shuttle visitors to the iconic Inca citadel.

The bus ride to Machu Picchu provides an opportunity to:

• Soak in the serene natural beauty of the region
• Catch glimpses of local wildlife, such as llamas and Andean condors
• Admire the impressive engineering feats of the Inca civilization
• Appreciate the scale and grandeur of the Machu Picchu site from a distance
• Prepare mentally for the awe-inspiring experience of exploring the ancient ruins.

Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

A guided tour of Machu Picchu offers visitors an in-depth exploration of the ancient Inca citadel, uncovering its rich history and architectural wonders.

Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the tour provides an insider’s perspective on the site’s iconic features, such as the iconic Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana stone, and the Sacred Plaza.

Guests will learn about the construction techniques and religious significance of these structures, gaining a deeper appreciation for the Inca’s engineering prowess and spiritual beliefs.

Throughout the 2-hour tour, the guide will share fascinating anecdotes and answer questions, ensuring visitors leave with a comprehensive understanding of this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Return Journey

After exploring the wonders of Machu Picchu, visitors descend by bus to the town of Aguas Calientes, where they board the return train to Ollantaytambo.

From there, they transfer to a bus for the journey back to Cusco, arriving around 9:00 pm.

The return trip offers a chance to:

• Admire the stunning Andean landscapes from the train
• Relax and reflect on the day’s experiences
• Discuss the history and significance of Machu Picchu with fellow travelers
• Enjoy a snack or beverage on the journey
• Anticipate a well-earned rest upon arrival in Cusco

This seamless return journey completes a remarkable full-day tour, providing a comprehensive Machu Picchu experience.

Important Information

Machu Picchu tickets must be booked in advance to guarantee access to the renowned Inca citadel. The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, as the terrain can be challenging to navigate. Travelers are advised to bring along their passport or ID, comfortable walking shoes, a sun hat, a camera, sunscreen, and sufficient cash for any additional expenses.

Recommendation	Reason
Book Machu Picchu tickets in advance	To secure entry
Wear comfortable shoes	Terrain can be challenging
Bring sun protection	Protect from the elements
Carry local currency	For any extra expenses

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

There is no minimum age requirement for this tour. Participants of all ages are welcome, though the tour may not be suitable for young children or those with mobility issues. Proper planning and preparation are advised for a safe and enjoyable experience.

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

Yes, visitors can bring their own food and drinks to Machu Picchu. However, it’s important to follow the park’s regulations and dispose of waste properly to help preserve the site’s natural beauty and cultural significance.

Is There an Option to Extend My Stay at Machu Picchu?

Yes, visitors can extend their stay at Machu Picchu. They can opt for a multi-day tour that includes an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, allowing them more time to explore the ruins and the surrounding area.

Can I Modify the Tour Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be modified to suit individual preferences. Travellers may request an extended stay at Machu Picchu, add additional stops, or customize the tour based on their interests and needs. The tour operator can accommodate such requests within reason.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour operator may offer discounts for students or seniors, though these are not explicitly mentioned in the information provided. It’s best to inquire directly about any available discounts when booking the tour.

Recap

The full-day tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu offers an immersive experience of the ancient Inca city and the surrounding Peruvian jungle.

Guests embark on a journey that includes a train ride, a bus transfer, and a guided tour of the iconic ruins, providing an opportunity to witness the architectural marvels of the Incas and gain insights into their rich cultural heritage.

Guests then return to Cusco in the evening.

You can check availability for your dates here: