Embark on our unforgettable journey with the Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco, which is offered in small groups. Discover the legendary Incan citadel in just one day. This full-day tour combines comfort, history, and majesty, perfect for explorers and history buffs alike!
Ultimate Trekking takes you to the magical Machu Picchu aboard the scenic Andean Train, an experience you'll always remember. Enjoy personalized service as you travel through stunning Andean scenery to visit one of the world's most impressive ancient sites.
Tour details
Full-day Machu Picchu Tour Overview
Join us for the best Machu Picchu 1-day tour by train! This full-day adventure starts early from Cusco, where you'll embark on a scenic journey through the mountains to Aguas Calientes town. there, a bus will take you up to the stunning Machu Picchu.
The tour includes a guided visit to the ancient Citadel of Machu Picchu, where you'll learn about their history, incredible architecture, and why they're so special. We handle all the travel details and provide a knowledgeable guide to make your day both easy and unforgettable.
This full-day Machu Picchu tour is a fantastic way to connect with the heart of the ancient Inca Empire and truly appreciate this incredible site.
Highlights
- Discover Machu Picchu on a day trip from Cusco, one of the New 7 Wonders
- Learn the history from your exclusive tour guides
- All-inclusive tour (Entrance fee, transportation, tour guide)
- Support our Social projects booking with us
Itinerary at a Glance
- Pickup from Cusco: Around 4:00 AM.
- Drive to Ollantaytambo: A 2-hour drive to the train station.
- Train to Aguas Calientes: 1 hour and 45 minutes on the Expedition Train.
- Meet Your Guide: At the Aguas Calientes train station. Enjoy some free time to explore.
- Bus to Machu Picchu: A 30-minute ride.
- Explore Machu Picchu: With an exclusive tour guide for 2 to 3 hours.
- Free Time: Spend some free time in Machu Picchu.
- Return to Aguas Calientes: By bus, for lunch or shopping.
- Train Back to Ollantaytambo: Afternoon Expedition Train.
- Van to Cusco: Private van ride from Ollantaytambo back to Cusco.
- Arrival in Cusco: Around 7:30 PM.
Important to know before booking:
- Everyday departure
- Train upgrade option
- Group tours average of 6 to 10 people
Start your unforgettable journey to Machu Picchu early at 4:00 AM with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco. We’ll take you to the train station, where you'll catch the train to Aguas Calientes. Enjoy a beautiful train ride next to the Urubamba River, with stunning views of tall mountains and green valleys.
When you arrive in Aguas Calientes, your friendly guide will meet you outside the train station. You’ll have a bit of time to walk around this small town, pick up some snacks, and get water before you take the bus to Machu Picchu.
At the entrance of Machu Picchu, show your passport and start exploring this amazing old city. Your guide will take you around for about 3 hours, showing you impressive Inca buildings, temples, and homes. Learn about how the Incas lived and built this place.
After the guided tour, you'll have free time to explore Machu Picchu on your own. You can take more photos, sit and enjoy the views, or explore more parts of the city.
Later, take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes. Here, you can relax, have lunch (not included in the tour), and maybe shop for souvenirs. In the afternoon, you’ll board the train back to Ollantaytambo. Our team will meet you there and bring you back to Cusco. You’ll return to your hotel around 7:30 PM with plenty of beautiful memories from exploring Machu Picchu. This tour offers a full day of adventure and discovery in one of the world’s most famous ancient cities.
Included:
- Pick up and drop off from your hotel
- Professional native tour guide for Machu Picchu
- Expedition train ride to Aguas Calientes
- Round Trip bus tickets to Machu Picchu
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- Expedition train back to Cusco
- Modern Transportation with AC
Not Included
- Meals not included
- Gratuities
Is it possible to visit Machu Picchu as a day trip from Cusco?
Yes, it is possible to visit Machu Picchu as a day trip from Cusco, although it will be a long day. You'll need to take an early morning train from Cusco (or more commonly, from nearby Ollantaytambo) to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. After visiting the site, you'll return to Cusco by train in the evening.
How do I book a Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco?
You can book a Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco through a local tour operator, online travel agency, or your hotel. The tour usually includes transportation to/from Cusco, train tickets, bus tickets to/from Machu Picchu, entrance fees, and a guided tour of the site.
How long does it take to travel between Cusco and Machu Picchu?
The total travel time between Cusco and Machu Picchu depends on your mode of transportation. If you take a train from Cusco, the journey takes approximately 3-4 hours. However, most day trips involve taking a vehicle from Cusco to Ollantaytambo (1.5-2 hours) and then boarding the train to Aguas Calientes (1.5 hours). Add the 20-30 minute shuttle bus ride from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, and the total one-way travel time is about 4-5 hours.
How much time will I have at Machu Picchu during a day trip?
The time you have at Machu Picchu during a day trip depends on your train schedules and tour itinerary. Generally, you'll have 2-4 hours to explore the site, including a guided tour and some free time to wander on your own.
What should I bring on a Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco?
For a Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco, you should bring the following:
- Passport (required for entry)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Layers of clothing to accommodate changing weather conditions
- Rain gear (especially during the rainy season)
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Water and snacks
- Camera and/or smartphone for photos
What is the cost of a Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco?
The cost of a Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco varies depending on the tour operator and the inclusions (transportation, entrance fees, guide, etc.). Prices typically range from $200 to $400 per person. Keep in mind that booking a group tour may be more cost-effective than a private tour.
