Full-Day Machu Picchu Tour From Cusco
Active
13h - 15h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Start with pickup from your hotel in Cusco and travel to Ollantaytambo Station to board the train to Aguas Calientes. The train has ample seats with large windows allowing for grand views of the surrounding jungle and mountains. Board a coach for a 25-minute ride to Machu Picchu. The city of Machu Pichu is believed to have been built in the 1450s by the Inca emperor Pachacuti as a holiday retreat. Within a century the city would be abandoned following the Spanish conquest. Instead, it was slowly swallowed up by the jungle and hidden from harm. Take a guided tour of the site which explains the origins behind this awe-inspiring citadel and its most prominent landmarks such as the monumental Main Square, the Royal Quarters. After the tour, be returned to Aguas Calientes where you can take some free time to explore the city. Then, return to Aguas Calientes station to take the train back to the Ollantaytambo Station, from there you will be taken back to your hotel.
Available options
Superior Train Including Lunch
Train service.: You will be traveling by either Vistadome or 360° train. Your tickets will be issued according to availability.<br/>Lunch at Cafe Inkaterra: Cafe Inkaterra Restaurant blends the most amazing Peruvian gastronomy with contemporary cuisine (vegan/vegetarian available).<br/>Pickup included
Tourist Train Including Lunch
Train service: You will be traveling by either Expedition or Voyager train. Your tickets will be issued according to availability.<br/>Lunch at Cafe Inkaterra: Cafe Inkaterra Restaurant blends the most amazing Peruvian gastronomy with contemporary cuisine (vegan/vegetarian available).<br/>Pickup included
Tourist train (Not lunch)
Train service.: You will be traveling by either Expedition or Voyager train. Your tickets will be issued according to availability.<br/>Pickup included
Superior train (Not lunch)
Train service: You will be traveling by either Vistadome or 360° train. Your tickets will be issued according to availability.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Professional Tour Guide (English, Spanish and Portuguese)
Round-trip train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
2.5-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu
Round-trip bus ticket from Agua Calientes to Machu Picchu
Admission to Machu Picchu
Contemporary Peruvian lunch at Cafe Inkaterra Restaurant (only for the option "with lunch")
Hotel pickup and drop-off from Cusco's historic city center to Ollantaytambo Station
Lima Tours office facilities at Aguas Calientes for tourist information and support.
Detailed itinerary
1
Start with a pickup in a minivan or bus from your hotel in Cusco (starting at approximately 5:30 a.m.) and travel to Ollantaytambo station on a 1 hour and a half ride to board the train to Aguas Calientes. This train station is located in the town of Ollantaytambo, in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Here you will board your train to the next train Station (Aguas Calientes). If you book in the Tourist category, you can travel on the Expedition or Voyager train and if you book in the Superior category, you can travel on the Vistadome or 360° train, depending on availability.
The train has ample seats with large windows allowing for grand views of the surrounding jungle and mountains
2
Stop 2
Known as Machu Picchu town, it is the closest town to the Machu Picchu National Park and the site of the last train station.
This town is pedestrian and after arriving you will cross the local Indian market where you can appreciate peruvian handicrafts. If you need to go to the bathrooms, recharge your cell phone, store your things and carry what you need, you can go to the Lima Tours office in Aguas Calientes and our staff will assist you.
Then, our guide will contact you and the other passengers, to take you to the bus station and board the bus that will take you to Machu Picchu in a 25-minute trip.
3
Stop 3
The "lost city of the Incas" is the reason why thousands of people arrive in Peru. Hidden among the vegetation, get closer to our past through its rooms, temples, bridges, and religious sites, built in communion with the surrounding landscape.
Take a 2.5-hour guided tour of the site which explains the origins behind this awe-inspiring citadel and its most prominent landmarks. Consider that to preserve the Historical Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, as well as its condition as World Heritage, the Ministry of Culture has established a maximum of 4 hours per person to stay in the Sanctuary. After the guided tour, you can stay on your own until completing the maximum time established or return to Aguas Calientes.
Depending on the time of entry of your ticket, you can have lunch before or after the tour. Our staff will inform you before the tour.
What's not included
Other visits or items not specified in the itinerary
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
PT
EN
ES
Audio guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.5
8 reviews
5★
6
4★
1
3★
0
2★
1
1★
0
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tickets to Machu Picchu are subject to availability. We remind you that you must send immediately your data (name and surname as it appears on your passport, document number, date of birth and nationality) to issue the tickets. Once the information is obtained, your reservation will be approved. Please note that, after your entry is issued, changes to personal data or date of entry are not allowed.
IMPORTANT: Do not schedule activities or return flights on the same day of your tour to Machu Picchu as this tour ends between 8 and 10 at night approximately.
To preserve the Historical Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, as well as its condition as World Heritage, the Ministry of Culture has established different circuits to visit it. We will make sure that your visit to the archaeological site is a memorable experience. However, please keep in mind, that either Circuit 2 or 3 will be assigned upon availability.
Upon confirmation, please advise us of your arrival date in Cusco and the name and address of your accommodation to organize your pickup
The guided tour lasts about 2 hours and a half accompanied by a guide.
Lima Tours offers tourist support at their local office in Aguas Calientes: customers may use the restrooms and use lockers for keeping volumes while taking the tour
It is recommended to bring local currency as some sites do not accept credit cards.
This activity is done in a small group (not private)
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Rates do not apply for Peruvians or foreign passengers whose stay exceeded 60 days in Peru because sales taxes are not included in the above total and, if applicable, will be collected by the local operator.
For your return to the city of Cusco, please note that the waiting time at Ollantaytambo station is up to 30 minutes from the arrival of your train, before departing to Cusco.
Hotel pickup times are between 4:00 AM and 8:00 AM. The exact time will be confirmed a day before. Please wait in your hotel lobby 15 minutes before your scheduled pickup time.
Important notes
- After your booking, it is mandatory to send to destinationservices@limatours.com.pe: hotel name and address for pickup.
- For taxes purposes, it is important to send your passports copies to destinationservices@limatours.com.pe
- Once you have arrived in Peru, if you have inquiries about your services (start times, pick-up points and others), incident reports (health problems and others), flight problems (delays or cancellations), contact us by our mobile emergency number and Whatsapp: (51) 997516250 - (51) 989397881, or send an email to hola@lito.pe
- Hotel pickup times are between 4:00 AM and 8:00 AM. The exact time will be confirmed a day before. Please wait in your hotel lobby 15 minutes before your scheduled pickup time.
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
