Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco
299 usd
- Cusco – Sacred Valley – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Machu Picchu Tour full day
Experience the magic of Machu Picchu on an exciting full-day journey from Cusco. Travel through the beautiful Sacred Valley by train and admire stunning Andean landscapes along the way.
Once you arrive, explore the legendary Inca citadel with a professional guide. Discover its fascinating history, impressive architecture, and breathtaking mountain views. Depending on your confirmed entrance ticket, follow Circuit 2 and visit its designated archaeological sites.
Throughout the day, enjoy an organized travel experience with transportation, train tickets, and entrance arrangements. This Machu Picchu Full Day Tour is perfect for travelers who want to discover one of the world’s most extraordinary destinations in just one day.
Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco
Summary
Cusco - Ollantaytambo - Aguas calientes - Machu Picchu
Full-Day Tour to Machu Picchu – Itinerary
04:30 hrs – Transfer from your hotel in Cusco to the train station in Ollantaytambo.
06:10 hrs – Departure by train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (the town of Machu Picchu).
08:00 hrs – Arrival at Aguas Calientes. Assistance provided to board the bus up to the Machu Picchu citadel.
10:00 hrs – Guided tour of Machu Picchu begins via Circuit 2. (Time may vary depending on ticket availability.)
12:30 hrs – End of the guided visit to the Inca citadel.
13:00 hrs – Optional lunch at a quality restaurant in Aguas Calientes.
18:30 hrs – Return train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
20:10 hrs approx. – Private transfer from Ollantaytambo back to your hotel in Cusco.
22:00 hrs – Estimated arrival at your hotel in Cusco.
Extra hikes after the guided tour in Machu Picchu:
- Huayna Picchu Mountain – 65 US$ per person: You can climb the mountain
Huayna Picchu for incredible views. The trip takes 2 hours
round trip, and you need to book well in advance. - Machu Picchu Mountain Hike – 65 US$ per person: This is the
highest mountain in Machu Picchu. The hike is round trip and takes
three hours.
Full-Day Machu Picchu Tour Itinerary
01
Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Early Morning: Departure from Cusco
Your Machu Picchu Full Day Tour begins at approximately 4:00 a.m. First, we pick you up from your accommodation in Cusco. Then, we travel through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo train station.
Along the way, enjoy beautiful Andean landscapes and traditional villages.
Scenic Train Ride to Aguas Calientes
Next, board the train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. During the journey, admire impressive mountains, green valleys, and the Urubamba River.
In addition, the route offers excellent opportunities to capture memorable photographs.
Guided Visit to Machu Picchu
Upon arrival, our team will assist you with the bus transfer to Machu Picchu. Afterward, meet your guide and begin an approximately two-hour tour of the Inca citadel.
Explore fascinating archaeological sites and discover the history of this ancient wonder. Meanwhile, your guide will explain the traditions and achievements of the Inca civilization.
You will also enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. The exact route depends on your confirmed entrance ticket.
Optional Mountain Adventures
Looking for an extra challenge? You may choose to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, subject to availability and compatible schedules.
However, these activities require separate tickets and advance reservations.
Free Time in Aguas Calientes
After your guided visit, return to Aguas Calientes. Here, you can enjoy lunch, explore local shops, or relax before your return journey.
Return to Cusco
Finally, take the train back to Ollantaytambo. Our transportation will then bring you to Cusco and drop you off at your accommodation.
Your adventure ends with wonderful memories of Machu Picchu and the breathtaking Peruvian Andes
Included
1. Machu Picchu Entrance Tickets
Your tour includes an official entrance ticket to Machu Picchu, subject to availability.
Circuit 2-A or 2-B: Explore the classic routes of the Inca citadel, including impressive archaeological areas and scenic viewpoints.
Advance reservations: Book several months ahead, especially during the high season, to improve your chances of securing your preferred circuit.
Important: Entrance tickets are subject to availability and government regulations. Therefore, we recommend confirming your preferred circuit before booking.
2. Pre-Tour Briefing
Get ready for your adventure with a helpful briefing from the Nig Adventures team.
Briefing time: 6:00 p.m. on the day before your tour.
Meeting option: Attend in person at our office or arrange a virtual session.
Tour information: Learn about your itinerary, transportation, entrance tickets, and essential travel recommendations.
Please contact us at least 48 hours before departure to coordinate your briefing.
3. Professional Local Tour Guides
Discover Machu Picchu with experienced local guides who bring Inca history and culture to life.
Bilingual service: Guided tours in English or Spanish.
Local knowledge: Learn about Inca architecture, ancient traditions, and the archaeological site’s significance.
Personalized assistance: Receive helpful information and guidance throughout your visit.
Safety awareness: Our team provides basic safety guidance and helps coordinate assistance if needed.
Above all, our goal is to make your visit informative, enjoyable, and memorable.
4. Traveler Assistance
Enjoy your Machu Picchu adventure with support from the Nig Adventures team.
Before departure: Get assistance with tour details, meeting points, and travel preparation.
During your journey: Receive guidance on transportation and the scheduled activities.
Travel coordination: Our team helps you manage unexpected changes or concerns.
You can contact us through our official communication channels for tour-related assistance.
5. Tourist Transportation
Travel comfortably between Cusco, Ollantaytambo, and Machu Picchu.
Hotel pick-up: Scheduled transportation from your accommodation in Cusco.
Transfer to Ollantaytambo: Tourist vehicle service to the train station.
Machu Picchu shuttle bus: Round-trip bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and the archaeological site.
Return transfer: Transportation from Ollantaytambo train station to your accommodation in Cusco.
Our team coordinates each transfer according to your confirmed itinerary.
6. Round-Trip Train Tickets
Enjoy a scenic train journey through the Sacred Valley toward Machu Picchu.
Outbound train: Ollantaytambo → Aguas Calientes.
Return train: Aguas Calientes → Ollantaytambo.
Train service: According to the category and schedule confirmed in your reservation.
Along the way, admire the Urubamba River, majestic mountains, and beautiful Andean landscapes.
Train schedules and services depend on availability at the time of booking.
Not Included
- Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Travel insurance (we highly recommend arranging it on your own)
What to bring on the tour
Prepare for your Machu Picchu adventure with these essential travel items. Packing wisely will help you enjoy a comfortable and memorable experience.
Valid Passport: Bring the original identification document used for your reservation. You will need it for train boarding and entrance verification at Machu Picchu.
Small Daypack: Choose a lightweight backpack to carry your water, snacks, camera, and personal belongings.
Rain Jacket: Weather in the Andes can change quickly. Therefore, bring a waterproof jacket or a light rain poncho.
Comfortable Walking Shoes: Wear sturdy shoes with good grip. They will help you walk safely on stone paths and uneven surfaces.
Sunglasses and Sunscreen: Protect your eyes and skin from strong sunlight, especially during clear days.
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated throughout your journey. Also, remember to dispose of any waste responsibly.
Insect Repellent: Carry repellent for warmer and humid areas, particularly around Aguas Calientes.
Cash in Peruvian Soles: Bring some cash for meals, souvenirs, and personal expenses.
Hat or Cap: Protect yourself from direct sunlight while exploring the archaeological site.
Personal Medication: Carry any medication you may need during the trip. Keep it easily accessible in your daypack.
Machu Picchu Tour Prices & Discounts
Price per Person
$299USD per person
The Machu Picchu Tour is available on any date of the year, as long as there is a minimum of 2 travelers.
Private Service
Available for an additional $50 USD per person.
Includes all the benefits of the group service with personalized attention.
Group Size
Small and exclusive groups.
Average: 5 people per group.
Maximum: 8 passengers per departure.
Special Discounts
| Category | Discount | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Students (18 to 25 years old) | $20 USD | Valid university student card copy (must show university name, student’s full name, photo, and expiration date). Government approval required. |
| Under 18 years old | $20 USD | Copy of passport at the time of booking. |
| Children under 11 years old | $30 USD | Copy of passport at the time of booking. |
Important Notes
Discounts are only valid with official documents provided at the time of booking.
Prices are final and include all tickets, permits, and full services.
Important Info
Machu Picchu Full Day Tour Schedule from Cusco
Discover the wonders of Machu Picchu with Nig Adventures. Enjoy a scenic train journey, explore ancient Inca landmarks, and admire the breathtaking Andes.
Our Machu Picchu Full Day Tour from Cusco offers an organized travel experience in a small group of up to 8 travelers.
Daily Tour Schedule
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 04:00 AM | Hotel Pick-up: Begin your adventure with a transfer from Cusco to Ollantaytambo train station. |
| 06:10 AM | Scenic Train Journey: Travel toward Aguas Calientes while enjoying beautiful views of the Urubamba River and Andean mountains. |
| 07:30 AM | Arrival in Aguas Calientes: Meet your guide and take the shuttle bus to Machu Picchu. |
| 08:00 AM – 11:00 AM | Machu Picchu Guided Tour: Explore the Inca citadel, discover its history, and admire spectacular viewpoints along your assigned circuit. |
| 11:00 AM – 01:00 PM | Return to Aguas Calientes: Take the shuttle bus downhill. Depending on your schedule, enjoy lunch or explore the town. |
| 03:20 PM – 06:20 PM | Return Train: Board your scheduled train to Ollantaytambo. Departure time depends on your confirmed reservation. |
| 07:00 PM – 09:00 PM | Return to Cusco: Continue by tourist transportation to your accommodation. Arrival time varies according to your train schedule. |
All times are approximate. The final schedule depends on train availability, entrance tickets, and operational conditions.
Important Travel Information
Advance Booking: Reserve early to improve your chances of securing your preferred Machu Picchu entrance circuit and train schedule.
Small-Group Experience: Travel with a group of up to 8 people, when this service is selected. This allows for a more personal and enjoyable experience.
Entrance Circuits: Your visit follows the route assigned to your confirmed ticket. Therefore, specific viewpoints and archaeological areas may vary.
Train Departure Times: Return schedules depend on availability. As a result, your arrival time in Cusco may change.
Optional Mountain Hikes: Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain are not included in this standard itinerary. These routes require separate tickets and additional time.
Meals: Lunch is not included. However, you may have time to eat in Aguas Calientes before your return train.
Weather Conditions: Andean weather can change throughout the day. For this reason, bring a rain jacket, comfortable shoes, and sun protection.
Ready to Explore Machu Picchu?
Experience one of Peru’s most iconic destinations with Nig Adventures. Contact our team to check availability and plan your Machu Picchu adventure from Cusco.
Frequent Asked Questions About Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco
What time does the Machu Picchu Full Day Tour start?
The tour usually begins around 4:00 a.m. with hotel pick-up in Cusco. Afterward, we travel to Ollantaytambo to board the train to Aguas Calientes. However, departure times may vary depending on your confirmed train schedule.
Which Machu Picchu circuit is included?
Our preferred option is Circuit 2, also known as the Classic Route. This route offers an excellent combination of Inca architecture, archaeological sites, and scenic viewpoints.
However, tickets are subject to availability. If Circuit 2 is sold out, our team will discuss alternative routes with you before confirming your reservation.
Can I hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
These hikes require separate entrance tickets and advance reservations. In addition, they need extra time and may not fit our standard full-day schedule.
If you want to explore either mountain, contact Nig Adventures before booking. We can help you review suitable alternatives.
How long is the guided tour of Machu Picchu?
The guided visit usually lasts between 2 and 3 hours, depending on your assigned circuit and the group’s pace.
During the tour, your guide will explain the history, architecture, and cultural importance of this remarkable Inca site.
What time will I return to Cusco?
Most departures are planned to return to Cusco in the evening. However, your arrival time depends on your return train, road conditions, and transportation arrangements.
Therefore, we recommend avoiding other activities on the same evening.
Is the Machu Picchu Full Day Tour physically demanding?
This tour is suitable for most travelers with a basic level of fitness. However, you should be comfortable walking on stone paths, climbing steps, and exploring uneven terrain.
Unlike multi-day treks, this experience does not require long-distance hiking.
How far in advance should I book my Machu Picchu tour?
We recommend booking several months ahead, especially between May and September.
Machu Picchu entrance tickets have limited availability. Therefore, early reservations improve your chances of securing your preferred circuit and train schedule.
Are train tickets and entrance fees included?
Yes. Our standard full-day package includes round-trip train tickets, Machu Picchu admission, a guided visit, and scheduled transportation.
However, the exact services and train category depend on your confirmed package.
Is lunch included in the tour?
No. Meals are not included in the standard package. However, you may have time to enjoy lunch in Aguas Calientes before your return train.
What should I bring to Machu Picchu?
Bring your original identification document, comfortable walking shoes, a rain jacket, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle.
Also, carry some Peruvian soles for meals and personal expenses.
Machu Picchu Tour 1 day
Book now with a small deposit and finish later.
Trip Details
- Tour Type: Group
- Duration: Full Day
- Activity: Cultural
- Group Size: 6 - 12
- Difficulty: Easy
- Languages: Spanish, English
- Distance Trip: 50 km