One Day Train Trip to Machu Picchu from Cusco
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12h - 15h
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About this experience
This one-day trip to Machu Picchu from Cusco offers a seamless journey to one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. After an early morning pickup, enjoy a scenic train ride along the picturesque Urubamba River to Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival, a professional guide will lead a comprehensive 2 to 2.5-hour tour of the ancient citadel, exploring key sites such as the Temple of the Sun and the Intihuatana stone. After the tour, take some time to explore Aguas Calientes and enjoy lunch at your leisure. The day concludes with a return train journey and evening arrival back in Cusco.
- Early hotel pickup in Cusco for a smooth start to your day
- Scenic train ride along the Urubamba River to Aguas Calientes
- 2 to 2.5-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu’s main highlights
- Designed for small groups for an intimate and personalized experience
Available options
Vistadome Train – Circuit 2
Premium - Circuit 2: A top experience: Vistadome or 360° train, gourmet lunch, round-trip bus, private guide, and circuit 2 entry.<br/>Pickup included
Vistadome Train – Circuit 3
Premium - Circuit 3: Discover Machu Picchu’s lower-middle section with stunning views. Includes Vistadome train, entrance ticket, round-trip bus, <br/>Pickup included
Expedition Train Circuit 2
Standard - Circuit 2: Includes Expedition train, circuit 2 entry, round-trip bus, small-group guided tour, and private transport.<br/>Standard - Circuit 2: Comfortable package with private transport, Expedition train, round-trip bus, Circuit 2 entry, and small-group guided tour.<br/>Duration: 13 hours<br/>Pickup included
Vistadome Train – Circuit 1
Premium – Circuit 1: Premium service with Vistadome train, gourmet lunch, circuit 1 entry, round-trip bus, and private guide.<br/>Pickup included
Expedition Train – Circuit 1
Standard - Circuit 1: Enjoy comfort with Expedition train, circuit 1 entry, round-trip bus, guided tour, and private transportation.<br/>Duration: 13 hours<br/>Pickup included
Expedition Train – Circuit 2
Budget - Circuit 2: Affordable option: Expedition train, circuit 2 entry, one-way bus, and guided tour with shared transport.<br/>Pickup included
Expedition Train Circuit 3
Standard Circuit 3: Explore Machu Picchu’s lower area with Expedition train, circuit entry, bus tickets, guide, and hotel pickup.<br/>Pickup included
Expedition Train - Circuit 1
Budget - Circuit 1: Budget choice with Expedition train, circuit 1 entry, one-way bus, and guided tour.<br/>Pickup included
Expedition Train – Circuit 3
Budget - Circuit 3: Low-cost option with Expedition train, circuit 3 entry, one-way bus, and guided tour.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Bus Tickets Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu:
Tourist Transportation Ollantaytambo – Cusco:
Premium: 360° or Vistadome.
Budget & Standard: Shared transport.
Budget & Standard: Expedition or Voyager (based on availability).
Hotel Pickup: From your hotel or Airbnb located in the historic center of Cusco.
Tourist Transportation Cusco – Ollantaytambo: Shared or private, depending on the selected service.
Budget & Standard: Expedition or Voyager.
Professional Guide in Machu Picchu:
Premium: Private transport.
Standard & Premium: Round-trip bus (up and down).
Premium: 360° or Vistadome panoramic train.
Train to Aguas Calientes:
Train Back to Ollantaytambo:
Machu Picchu Entrance Ticket: Includes access to Circuit 1, 2, or 3 (subject to availability).
Pre-tour Briefing: One day before the tour.
Premium: Private guide.
Budget: Only descent included (Aguas Calientes → Machu Picchu).
Budget & Standard: Shared service (approx. 3 hours).
Detailed itinerary
1
Your adventure begins with a convenient hotel pickup in Cusco and a comfortable transfer to the train station.
2
Board your selected train service – Expedition, Vistadome, 360° Executive Class, or Voyager – and enjoy an unforgettable 1.5-hour ride through the Andes, passing rivers, valleys, and breathtaking mountain landscapes.
3
Stop 3
Pass by
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, a short bus ride will take you up the winding road to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
4
Stop 4
Guided Tour of Machu Picchu (Approx. 3 hours)
Explore the majestic Machu Picchu, the legendary Lost City of the Incas. Walk through its terraces, temples, shrines, stairways, and urban sectors while your expert guide reveals the history and mysteries of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Depending on the circuit selected at the time of booking (1, 2, or 3), you will follow the designated route and immerse yourself in this once-in-a-lifetime experience. After the guided tour, you’ll also have free time to enjoy the citadel at your own pace.
5
Stop 5
Pass by
From Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
After your guided visit to Machu Picchu, you will return to Aguas Calientes either by bus or on foot, depending on the program you have reserved.
If your package includes lunch, you will enjoy it at a local restaurant in Aguas Calientes. If lunch is not included, you will have free time to choose from the many restaurants available in town.
6
From Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
After lunch, you will board your train back to Ollantaytambo at the scheduled time. The train journey takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, with the service depending on the train option you selected at the time of booking.
7
From Ollantaytambo to Cusco
Upon arrival at Ollantaytambo station, our transfer staff will be waiting for you according to your train schedule. From there, you will travel comfortably back to Cusco (approx. 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours). Drop-off will be at your hotel or, depending on accessibility, at the nearest point to your accommodation.
What's not included
Meals or lunch (not included in Budget or Standard).
Travel insurance (highly recommended).
Tips or gratuities (optional).
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
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1★
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Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
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
Important notes
Our team will contact you one day before your tour to send your tickets and provide a briefing. This can be done in person at our office or via video call.
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
