1 Day Machu Picchu Express Tour from Cusco

Cusco , Peru

1 Day Machu Picchu Express Tour from Cusco

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15h

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About this experience

Discover Machu Picchu at your own pace on a private day trip from Cusco. With all transfers, train tickets, bus fares and archaeological site entrance fees included, you won’t waste time organising or in long queues. At Machu Picchu, you can enjoy the exclusive attention of your personal guide, who will give you detailed information about the place. You will also have free time to explore and capture memories before returning to Cusco.

Available options

1 Day Machu Picchu Express Tour from Cusco

Pickup included

What's included

Train ticket (choose your class) for the journey Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo.

Private Guide in Machu Picchu (Available in English, Spanish, Portuguese)

Transfers Cusco – Ollantaytambo - Cusco

Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes bus ticket.

Meeting a day earlier to provide you with all the details and important aspects of the visit.

Full shuttle service (pick-up and drop-off).

Access ticket to Machu Picchu Historical Shrine.

Detailed itinerary

At 05:00 am, we will start the tour with pick-up from your hotel in Cusco, Pisac, Ollantaytambo or the Sacred Valley. We will take you by our comfortable and private transport to the train station in the picturesque village of Ollantaytambo.

Here they will take the train that will transfer them to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), with a journey of 1 hour and 45 minutes. Throughout the trip, you will have the opportunity to take in beautiful scenery, including extensive agricultural areas, animal herds, towering mountains and snow-covered summits.

Stop 3 Pass by

When you arrive at Aguas Calientes train station, our guide will meet you and take you to the bus station. Then we will take a 30-minute tour until we reach Machu Picchu.

Stop 4

Be captivated by the landscapes of the trip as you cross the Andes and enjoy the spectacular views of the Sacred Valley. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, the city at the foot of Machu Picchu, your private guide will be waiting for you. Together, they will take the last bus to take them to the top of Machu Picchu, climbing to an impressive altitude of 7,970 feet (2,430 meters).

Take a moment to capture your first photo of Machu Picchu, as your guide shares fascinating details about the history of the Lost City of the Incas. Then, you will have time to explore and discover emblematic places like temples. This private tour can be customized to your preferences, allowing you to choose between climbing the most impressive viewpoints or spending more time exploring the lesser-known areas of the ruins.

After visiting Machu Picchu, you will return to Aguas Calientes to enjoy lunch and explore this picturesque village.

Stop 5 Pass by

At the time indicated on the ticket, we will take the train back to Ollantaytambo.

Upon arrival, the driver will be waiting for you with a name sign and will take you comfortably to your hotel in Cusco. The approximate arrival time in Cusco will be 19:30 pm.

Finally, you will conclude your tour with a private transfer back to your hotel in Cusco.

What's not included

Food and drinks.

Available in other languages, you can request it for an additional fee after booking.

personal expenses

Tips (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN ES

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Confirmation will be received at time of booking

What can you wear?Sunglasses, comfortable clothing and footwear, hat, sunscreen, repellent, water bottle, extra battery, jacket, a small backpack with what you need for the night, and waterproof clothing if you travel during the rainy season.

It is an exclusive tour/activity for your group

Minimum of 1 person required per reservation.

Tickets to Machu Picchu will be allocated subject to availability at the time of booking. The first option will be Circuit 2, so we recommend booking in advance. If exhausted, Circuit 1 or Circuit 3 will be assigned as the last option.

To participate in the Machu Picchu full day tour from Cusco, it is necessary to provide the full passport details of each traveler (full name and passport number). These details, together with date of birth and nationality, must be provided at the time of booking.

Important notes

The guide will give you your tickets

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