The Machu Picchu Full Day Tour is a comprehensive exploration of this iconic Inca site, allowing visitors to enjoy the rich history and breathtaking vistas of this UNESCO World Heritage destination. Led by expert guides, the tour provides a seamless experience from start to finish, with all transportation, tickets, and entrance fees included. While the guided component ensures visitors don’t miss the site’s key highlights, the freedom to explore independently allows them to uncover hidden gems and create their own unique Machu Picchu experience. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or simply seeking a memorable adventure, this tour offers a balanced and captivating exploration of one of the world’s most awe-inspiring wonders.
Key Points
- A full-day guided tour to explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Machu Picchu, including round-trip transportation, train and bus tickets, and entrance fees.
- Immersive experience led by expert guides to learn about Inca civilization, culture, and architectural wonders of Machu Picchu.
- Opportunities for memorable photography during the 2-3 hour guided tour and free time for independent exploration of the site.
- Includes a 2-hour drive from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, a 1 hour and 45-minute train ride to Aguas Calientes, and a 45-minute bus ride to the Machu Picchu entrance.
- Balanced itinerary with structured guidance and ample free time to discover hidden gems and capture breathtaking views at your own pace.
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Tour Details
This full-day tour offers visitors the chance to explore the ancient wonder of Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Guests will enjoy the Inca civilization, led by expert guides who’ll share insights into the site’s rich history and cultural significance.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, train and bus tickets, as well as entrance fees to Machu Picchu.
Travelers can look forward to memorable photography opportunities throughout the guided 2-3 hour tour of the iconic ruins.
With free time to explore independently, visitors can discover the site’s hidden gems at their own pace and soak in the breathtaking vistas that make Machu Picchu one of the world’s most awe-inspiring destinations.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour kicks off with pickups at two central locations, Plaza De Armas and Plaza Kusipata, before embarking on a 2-hour drive to the Ollantaytambo train station.
From there, guests board a 1 hour and 45-minute train ride through the stunning Andean scenery to Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu.
Once arrived, a brief 45-minute bus ride takes visitors to the ancient Inca citadel.
During the 2 to 3-hour guided tour, guests will:
- Immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of the Inca civilization
- Marvel at the impressive architecture and engineering feats of Machu Picchu
- Capture breathtaking photos of the stunning landscapes and ruins
- Enjoy free time to explore the site further on their own
Transportation and Tickets
Round-trip transportation for the full-day Machu Picchu tour includes train and bus tickets, ensuring a seamless journey to and from the iconic UNESCO site.
The tour begins with a 2-hour drive from Cusco to the Ollantaytambo train station, where travelers board a 1 hour and 45-minute train ride to Aguas Calientes.
From there, a 45-minute bus ride takes them up to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
After the guided tour, the return journey follows the same route, with a 2-hour train ride back to Ollantaytambo and a final 3-hour van transfer to Cusco.
All transportation and entrance tickets are included, making this a hassle-free way to explore the wonders of Machu Picchu.
Guided Tour Experience
Expert guides lead visitors on an immersive exploration of Machu Picchu, providing insights into the Inca civilization and the archaeological wonders of the site.
During the 2 to 3-hour guided tour, travelers gain a deeper understanding of the layout, architecture, and history of this iconic UNESCO World Heritage site.
The guided experience includes:
- In-depth commentary on Machu Picchu’s structures, including the Intihuatana, the Temple of the Sun, and the Inca’s residential areas
- Explanations of the site’s religious significance and ceremonial functions
- Fascinating details about the Inca’s advanced engineering and construction techniques
- Opportunities to ask questions and engage with the knowledgeable guides
Through this guided tour, visitors enjoy the grandeur and mystery of Machu Picchu, leaving with a newfound appreciation for the Inca civilization.
Free Time at Machu Picchu
After the guided tour, visitors have ample free time to explore Machu Picchu independently, allowing them to discover hidden gems and capture breathtaking views at their own pace.
With the expert guidance from the tour, travelers can now wander through the ancient citadel, admiring the iconic structures and seeing the rich Inca history.
During this free time, visitors can climb the steep stairs to the Sun Gate, offering panoramic vistas of the entire site, or venture off the beaten path to uncover lesser-known viewpoints.
Whether it’s photographing the iconic terraces or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere, the free time at Machu Picchu is a highlight of the tour, providing a perfect balance of structure and independence.
Return Journey
Completing the Machu Picchu experience, the return journey takes travelers back to Cusco, retracing their steps through Aguas Calientes and Ollantaytambo.
The 2-hour train ride from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo is a scenic journey, offering views of the stunning Andes.
From Ollantaytambo, a 3-hour van ride transports guests back to Cusco, with drop-off at the Plaza Kusipata or Plaza De Armas.
The return trip includes:
- Comfortable train ride through the Andes
- Efficient bus transfer to Ollantaytambo
- Relaxing van journey to central Cusco
- Convenient drop-off at two Cusco locations
The return journey completes the Machu Picchu tour, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience for all participants.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour package includes round-trip transportation, train and bus tickets, entrance fees to Machu Picchu, and a professional guided tour, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the ancient Inca site.
The cost of meals, beverages, travel insurance, tips, and any personal expenses aren’t covered.
Visitors are responsible for arranging their own accommodation in Cusco and any additional activities or entrance fees to other sites.
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or people over 95 years old.
Restrictions and Limitations
The Machu Picchu full-day tour has some restrictions and limitations that travelers should be aware of. It’s not suitable for pregnant women or people over 95 years old, as the tour involves extensive walking and climbing at high altitudes.
The tour may not be appropriate for individuals with mobility issues or those who’ve difficulty with steep terrain. Travelers should be prepared for the physical demands of the tour, which can be strenuous at times.
Altitude sickness is a concern, and participants may need to take precautions to mitigate the effects.
Inclement weather, such as heavy rain or fog, can impact the tour experience and visibility at Machu Picchu.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to Machu Picchu?
Yes, visitors can bring their own food and drinks to Machu Picchu. However, the tour package does not include meals, so travelers will need to plan and prepare their own sustenance for the day.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Machu Picchu?
The best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season from May to October. Crowds are smaller, weather is mild, and travelers can enjoy the stunning views without the risk of rain disrupting their experience.
Is There a Dress Code or Special Attire Required for the Tour?
There is no strict dress code for visiting Machu Picchu, but comfortable, layered clothing and sturdy walking shoes are recommended. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and a rain jacket in case of changing weather conditions.
Can I Extend My Stay in Cusco Before or After the Tour?
Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Cusco before or after the tour. The tour operator can provide recommendations on accommodation and additional activities in the area to customize the travel experience.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Children on This Tour?
The tour has an age restriction – it’s not suitable for children under a certain age, typically 6 years old. Guests should check with the tour operator for the exact minimum age requirement.
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Recap
The Machu Picchu Full Day Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of this UNESCO World Heritage site, providing a balanced experience of structured guidance and independent discovery.
With round-trip transportation, train and bus tickets, and expert-led tours, visitors can enjoy the rich Inca civilization and capture breathtaking views of the ancient citadel.
This tour ensures a memorable and fulfilling experience for those seeking to uncover the hidden gems of Machu Picchu.
