Cusco , Peru

Machu Picchu Day Trip from Cusco

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(1618 reviews)

14h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Local experts for an easy way to visit Machu Picchu with a special cancellation poliy, all details are arranged: ticket train on premium departures from/to Machu Picchu, bus on shift to go up and down the citadel, morning shift entrance fee, and expert local guide. Feel the energy, hear the stories and history of one of the most attractive places over the World.

VIPAC refund cancellation Policy: if you cancel your booking before 20 days of the tour departure, we will refund 80% of the total amount. Cancellations with less than 20 days prior of the tour departure are non refundable in 100%.

Due to high demand of visitors to Machu Picchu and limited capacity, we suggest to book 60 days prior. Last minute bookings, less than 60 days, can be booked on midday and afternoon shifts.

Available options

Machu Picchu 360 & Circuit 1

Panoramic Route: Circuit 1 - Upper terrace route, There is no access to enter the lower part of the citadel.

 Pickup included

Expedition train & Circuit 3

Route of royalty: Duration: 2.5hrs
Visit the lower part of the sanctuary. Pickup included

Voyager train & Circuit 3

Route of royalty: Duration: 2.5hrs
Visit the lower part of the sanctuary. Pickup included

Vistadome Bimodal Circuit 1

Vistadome Bimodal Pickup included

Expedition train & Circuit 1

Panoramic Route: Circuit 1 - Upper terrace route, There is no access to enter the lower part of the citadel.
 Pickup included

Vistadome Train & Circuit 1

Panoramic Route: Circuit 1 - Upper terrace route, There is no access to enter the lower part of the citadel.
 Pickup included

Voyager train & Circuit 2

Traditional: Duration 2.5hrs Pickup included

Voyager train & Circuit 1

Panoramic Route: Circuit 1 - Upper terrace route, panoramic circuits. There is no access to enter the lower part of the citadel Pickup included

Machu Picchu 360 & Circuit 2

Traditional: Duration 2.5hrs Pickup included

Vistadome Bimodal Circuit 3

Vistadome Bimodal Pickup included

Vistadome Bimodal Circuit 2

Vistadome Bimodal Pickup included

Vistadome Train & Circuit 2

Traditional: Duration 2.5hrs Pickup included

Expedition train & Circuit 2

Traditional: Duration 2.5hrs Pickup included

Vistadome Train & Circuit 3

Route of royalty: Duration: 2.5hrs
Visit the lower part of the sanctuary. Pickup included

Machu Picchu 360 & Circuit 3

Route of royalty: Duration: 2.5hrs
Visit the lower part of the sanctuary. Pickup included

What's included

Admission ticket to Machu Picchu Citadel.

Selected round trip train ticket or bimodal bus&train service from Cusco.

Round trip shuttle bus ticket to go up & down to the citadel from Machu Picchu town.

Local Expert guide (The guidance is in Spanish or English)

Pick up and drop-off from your lodging in Cusco.

Detailed itinerary

Cusco Hotel Pickup and Transfer to Train Station
Begin your adventure with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco, followed by a transfer to the train station.

Stop 2 Pass by

Train Journey to Aguas Calientes
Enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour train ride, where you can choose between various train options, such as the Expedition, Vistadome, Executive Class 360, or Voyager, each offering unique ways to take in the beautiful landscapes.

Once you arrive at Aguas Calientes station, board a small bus to begin your journey up the winding road to Machu Picchu.

Stop 3

Discover the awe-inspiring ruins of Machu Picchu, known as the Lost City of the Incas, with its terraces, shrines, steps, and urban areas, while your expert guide walks you through the historic site.
There will be time to be alone and fully embrace this magnificent wonder of the world, letting this once in a lifetime experience set in.

Stop 4 Pass by

After your exploration, head back to Aguas Calientes station to board the train for your return trip to Cusco.

Relax and enjoy the scenic train journey back to Cusco, where your day concludes with a transfer to your hotel.

What's not included

Gratuities

Lunch

Bottled water

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

1,134 reviews

5★

797

4★

185

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.6

484 reviews

5★

376

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

MANDATORY: The Authority of Machu Picchu asks full name, passport number, date of birth, nationality details to issue the admission ticket.

The admission ticket of Machu Picchu is NOT REFUNDABLE and date changes or amendments are NOT accepted. *If you need to change your visit date, you will need to purchase a new entrance ticket.

Due to high demand and limited entrances to the citadel, VIPAC will issue your admission ticket on trail 2 as a priority. If it is not available, trail 3 or 1 will be provided, after prior coordination with the passenger before issuance.

Machu Picchu Admission ticket and train tickets are included in this tour. Our sales team will send them 72 hour after paid.

Shifts entry by hours from 6 am to 3 pm. Our shared tour considers 9 am, 10 am and 11 am shifts. If the shifts are not available, we will open a new shared tour in the next hour available. Our staff will inform you for acceptance.

Travelers must arrive to Cusco city at least one day before Machu Picchu day tour. The authority of Machu Picchu do not accept travel date ammends of admission ticket.

This shared tour could have a waiting time of up to 40 minutes to start the tour, depending on Machu Picchu shift time and train timetable avaliability.

One day before the company's staff will contact the travelers to send the pick-up time through Viator or Tripadvisor experiences extranet.

For weather reasons, from January to March, all excursions departs on bimodal service (Bus from Cusco to Ollantaytambo & train from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu.

The guided tour inside Machu Picchu takes around 2h 30m following a delimited trail.

Machu Picchu has two seasons. Rainy season from December to March. Dry season, the rest of the year.

VIPAC is not responsible for flight cancellations or delays. We recommend arriving in Cusco one day before the scheduled tour date."

Machu Picchu has implemented new visitor circuits, with three main routes with specific differences to distribute passengers in various areas. These changes are intended to improve the visitor experience and preserve the integrity of the archaeological site. The circuit with route 2 will be given as priority and if it is not available, the options of taking circuit 3B or circuit 1B will be informed so that you can confirm your decision before the tickets are issued.

Remember that, if you are a Peruvian national, you must have a valid National Identity Document (DNI) in order to be able to issue your ticket to Machu Picchu. In addition, this document must be sent through the corresponding platform and presented on the day of the visit. The system does not allow the issuance of tickets with a passport for Peruvian citizens.

Important notes

Important: you can´t change the personal information after the admission ticket was issued. if you need to change any detail, contact us inmediately. Admission ticket is not refundable and not accept date changes or ammends.

One day before, the company's staff will contact the travelers to send the pick-up time through Viator or Tripadvisor experiences extranet.

Due to high demand and limited admission tickets to the citadel, VIPAC will issue immediately your admission ticket on trails 1-2-4. Supplement apply for Wayna Picchu mountain (trail 4 plus) and Machu Picchu peak mountain (trail 3).

From January to March, all trains are departing from Sacred Valley station, in the middle of the railway route to Machu Picchu. You will have a bus transfer from your lodging in Cusco to Sacred Valley Station and v.v.

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