Day Trip Tour to Machu Picchu from Cusco

Cusco , Peru

Day Trip Tour to Machu Picchu from Cusco

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(699 reviews)

12h - 16h

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

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About this experience

Our Day trip to Machu Picchu from Cusco is a beautiful way to see one of the World's New Seven Wonders. Happy Gringo offers you your best opportunity to visit this marvel of South America and the whole Earth. Machu Picchu Day Trip lets you experience the spectacular Citadel of Machu Picchu in just one day with a local tour operator.

On our comfort service Machu Picchu Day Trip from Cusco, you’ll see the breathtaking Cloud City of Machupicchu with roundtrip train tickets to Cusco. You will also have a guided tour of the citadel and enjoy a delicious complimentary lunch at Machu Picchu Pueblo.

The Machu Picchu Inca Sanctuary Day Trip lasts around 14 hours; our Machu Picchu one-day tour leaves every day at 4:30 am.

We return to Cusco around 19:00 on Voyager or Expedition tourist trains, and our service is DOOR TO DOOR.

Note—the Machu Picchu ticket and circuit are provided according to availability. We recommend booking your trip months in advance to get the best circuit.

Available options

Day Trip Tour to Machu Picchu from Cusco

Pickup included

What's included

Bus tickets from Aguas Calientes town to Machu Picchu citadel

Multi language tour guide is included

Machu Picchu ticket and circuit are provided according to the availability.

Round-trip train tickets (Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes).

Hotel pick up & drop off door-to-door.

Guided tour at Machu Picchu site

Pre-tour information a day before the trip to Machu Picchu in our Cusco office.

Detailed itinerary

At 4:30 a.m., we will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you by van to the Ollantaytambo train station for 1 hour and 30 minutes, where you will board the train to Machu Picchu.

(You need to be ready 20 minutes before the van departs).

We will travel by train to Machu Picchu town or Aguas Calientes (the village has two names) between 06:40 am and 7:20 a.m. and enjoy the landscapes surrounding the entrance.

(We need to be there 30 minutes before the train departs).

Upon arrival in Machu Picchu town, our transfer will wait for us to get directions, and then we will take the bus to the Inca citadel. At the end of the excursion in this place, we can also enjoy lunch in a local restaurant.

Note 1: once we arrive at the village, we take the bus for 30 minutes to the citadel.

Note 2: After visiting Machu Picchu's citadel, you return to Aguas Calientes town, where you have one hour extra to enjoy lunch.

Stop 4

On arrival at Machu Picchu, you'll board a bus to the citadel for 30 minutes and a two-hour walking tour that explores ancient stairways, delicate carvings, and spectacular views. Afterward, enjoy some independent time to snap pictures or relax, finishing the day with the beautiful return journey to Cusco.

What's not included

Gratitudes

Meals

Available languages

Guide guide

DE PT EN FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.2

175 reviews

5★

117

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Tripadvisor 4.7

524 reviews

5★

466

4★

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1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

IMPORTANT

- A day before your Machu Picchu tour from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. the orientation, and the tickets will be provided in our office.

- The check-in must be with your original passport
- Orientation is to clarify all the questions and doubts of the clients

Note 1, the last-minute booking is carried out according to the availability of train and Machu Picchu tickets. Therefore, the last minute bookings will be accommodated and it will require the flexibility of our clients.

Note 2, the Machu Picchu ticket and circuit are provided according to availability.

- Phone Number +51 918 885 164

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