Machu Picchu Full Day Tour from Cusco(Small Groups )

Cusco , Peru

Machu Picchu Full Day Tour from Cusco(Small Groups )

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(36 reviews)

16h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The New Wonder of the World Machu Picchu deservedly tops the agenda of most visitors to Peru. Perched on a lofty plateau surrounded by soaring and descending Andean peaks, this ancient city is a poignant reminder of an advanced and powerful civilization.

For the traveler to have a better experience Explore Unlimited Peru provides the best local Cusco guides with the best possible quality of service and you will feel that the price you paid for the tour will be a fair deal for everyone.

Available options

Machu Picchu Full Day Tour from Cusco(Small Groups )

What's included

Roundtrip bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu

Professional certified tour guide

Pick up and Drop from your hotel in Cusco

Roundtrip train tickets Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes (Tourist class)

Machu Picchu admission ticket.

Machu Picchu guided tour

Detailed itinerary

We will be picking you up from your hotel in Cusco. Then in our private transport, we will be driving you to Ollantaytambo train station. It is a three hours drive through the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Here you will board the train to Aguas Calientes.

Stop 2

The train journey itself is a rewarding travel experience. You will be able to see some remote Andean farms and villages along the course of the Urubamba river.
You will then board the 2 hours train back to Ollantaytambo.

Once at Aguas Calientes, our crew will be transferring you to the bus terminal. Here you will be boarding the bus to Machu Picchu citadel

Stop 3

Once at the entrance of the citadel, the local authorities will be verifying your passport and the entrance ticket so make sure to carry your original passport. We will then start with the two hours guided tour of the citadel.

After this unforgettable experience, at a designated time, you will be boarding the bus from Machu Picchu back to Aguas Calientes. Here you will have some free time to have lunch (not included in the price).

On this tour, you will be introduced to the Incas way of life and how each area in the citadel was used by Incas. After the tour, you will have some free time to explore the citadel on your own. If you have booked a hike to Machu Picchu mountain or Huayna Picchu, our guide will be directing you to the entrance.

Alternatively, you can hike to the sun gate. It offers a spectacular view of the citadel. This is also the point of entrance to those on Inca trail.

Our representative will be meeting you on arrival and will be transferring you back to your hotel in Cusco. It will be a three hours drive from Ollantaytambo to Cusco. We will be reaching by 09:00 PM.

What's not included

Entrance to Huayna Picchu mountain (optional hike, must be booked in advance).

Meals or drinks.

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

36 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

We will be handing you over your entrance ticket to Machu Picchu once in Aguas Calientes town

About Cusco

Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, is a captivating blend of Indigenous and colonial influences. Known for its well-preserved archaeological sites, vibrant culture, and stunning Andean landscapes, it's a gateway to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. The city's rich history, combined with its lively arts scene and delicious cuisine, makes it a must-visit destination in South America.

Top Attractions

Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley is a stunning region filled with Inca ruins, traditional villages, and breathtaking landscapes. It's a must-visit for history and nature lovers.

Historical/Nature Full day PEN 10-50 (USD 2.50-12.50) depending on the site

Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is the iconic Inca citadel and one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. Its breathtaking views and rich history make it a must-see.

Historical/Adventure Full day or overnight PEN 152 (USD 38) for entrance, train tickets vary

Qorikancha

Qorikancha, or the Temple of the Sun, was the most important temple in the Inca Empire. It's a fascinating blend of Inca and colonial architecture.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours PEN 10 (USD 2.50)

Sacsayhuaman

Sacsayhuaman is a massive Inca fortress with impressive stone walls and panoramic views of Cusco. It's a testament to Inca engineering and military might.

Historical 1-2 hours PEN 10 (USD 2.50)

San Pedro Market

San Pedro Market is a bustling market offering a variety of fresh produce, local crafts, and traditional foods. It's a great place to experience local life.

Cultural/Food 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary for purchases

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cuy al Horno

Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish.

Main Course Not vegetarian

Lomo Saltado

Stir-fried beef with onions, tomatoes, and fries.

Main Course Can be made vegetarian

Aji de Gallina

Shredded chicken in a creamy, spicy sauce.

Main Course Not vegetarian

Sopa de Quinoa

Quinoa soup, a nutritious and traditional dish.

Soup Can be made vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking Trekking Mountain biking Whitewater rafting Visiting spas Exploring parks Enjoying local cafes Visiting museums

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the dry season, offering the best weather for exploring the city and its archaeological sites. The skies are clear, and temperatures are mild.

5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F) 41°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: Quechua, English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Peruvian Sol (PEN)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe with common-sense precautions

Cusco is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be cautious with your belongings and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use reputable tour operators
• Be cautious with street food

Getting there

By air

Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport • 5 km (3 miles) from city center

By train

San Pedro Station

By bus

Cusco Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Shared taxis (colectivos) are a common and affordable way to get around Cusco. They follow specific routes and can be flagged down.

Taxis

Available • Apps: InDriver, Easy Taxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic Center San Blas San Cristobal

Day trips

Pisac

35 km (22 miles) from Cusco • Full day

Pisac is a charming town known for its vibrant market and impressive Inca ruins. It's a great day trip from Cusco.

Ollantaytambo

60 km (37 miles) from Cusco • Full day or overnight

Ollantaytambo is a picturesque town with well-preserved Inca ruins and a gateway to Machu Picchu. It's a must-visit for history and adventure lovers.

Tipon

25 km (16 miles) from Cusco • Half day

Tipon is a beautiful archaeological site with well-preserved Inca terraces and water channels. It's a peaceful and less crowded alternative to other Inca sites.

Festivals

Inti Raymi • June 24 Cusco Festival of Music and Dance • August

Pro tips

Acclimatize to the altitude before engaging in strenuous activities
Dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures
Learn a few basic phrases in Spanish or Quechua to enhance your experience
Visit the San Pedro Market early in the morning for the best selection and prices
Book tickets and train tickets in advance for Machu Picchu and other popular attractions