Machu Picchu day trip: Explore the Inca Citadel

4.9 (505 reviews)

Availability Daily departures
Transporte Hotel pickup
Tour Guide Tour guide included
Available languages Spanish, English & Portuguese
Service type Shared service
Cancellation policy Non-refundable
Maximum altitude 2,430 m a.s.l.
Difficulty Moderate

Discover the magic of Machu Picchu Peru with our unforgettable Machu Picchu Full Day Tour. We will travel through breathtaking Andean landscapes, lush valleys, and scenic rivers as we follow the ancient route of the Incas. Every moment will connect us with the spiritual energy and mystery of this world wonder.

We will begin our adventure early in the morning with a transfer from Cusco to the train station. During the train ride, we will admire snow-capped peaks, colorful villages, and dense tropical vegetation. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, we will take the bus that ascends to the majestic Machu Picchu citadel.

At the site, our guide will lead us through the most important sectors of Machu Picchu Peru. We will explore the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana, and the Sacred Plaza while learning about Inca engineering and spirituality. We will have time to take panoramic photos and absorb the incredible atmosphere of this sacred site.

After the guided tour, we will return to Aguas Calientes for lunch and a short rest. Later, we will board the train back to Cusco, ending our day filled with history, culture, and wonder. This experience will allow us to enjoy one of the best Machu Picchu tours in a single unforgettable day.

Highlight places

Discover the majestic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, one of the 7 wonders of the modern world
Enjoy a scenic train journey through the breathtaking Sacred Valley of the Incas
Explore the main archaeological sectors of Machu Picchu with an expert guide
Admire stunning views of the Andean mountains, rivers, and natural landscapes
Take advantage of free time to capture unforgettable photos from the best viewpoints
Experience the tour with professional guides specialized in Inca history and culture

Itinerary

Day 01 Hotel Pickup – Ollantaytambo – Machu Picchu– Cusco

Cusco, Ollantaytambo, and Machu Picchu: a panoramic train, Inca heritage, and a complete adventure all in one day.

We will start our Machu Picchu Peru Tour early in the morning. Our transport will pick us up at 03:45 AM. from hotels in Cusco’s historic center. For accommodations outside this area, we will coordinate a meeting point. We will travel for 1 hour and 45 minutes (70 km) to Ollantaytambo by tourist vehicle.

At approximately 06:00 AM., we will board the train to Aguas Calientes. The train journey will last around 1 hour and 45 minutes, crossing breathtaking Andean valleys and following the Urubamba River. We will enjoy spectacular views of the cloud forest as the landscape changes from highlands to jungle. Upon arrival, our guide will welcome us and explain the next steps for our visit.

We will have time in Aguas Calientes to enjoy breakfast or relax before boarding the Consettur bus. This ride will take about 35 minutes up to the Machu Picchu Archaeological Park (2,430 meters above sea level). We will begin our guided tour around 10:00 AM., exploring one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Our professional guide will lead us through the most important areas, including the Main Plaza, the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana, and the Royal Tomb.

We will learn about Inca engineering, astronomy, and spirituality during our two-hour guided tour. Afterward, we will have free time to take photos and absorb the mystical atmosphere of Machu Picchu. Later, we will take the return bus to Aguas Calientes. There, we will have time for lunch, visit the local hot springs, or walk the new Stone Chronicles circuit.

At approximately 06:00 PM., we will board the train back to Ollantaytambo. Our transport will be waiting to drive us back to Cusco, where we will arrive around 10:45 PM. at Plaza San Francisco. This full-day Machu Picchu Peru Tour will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience filled with culture, nature, and wonder.

Details

Maximum altitude

2,430 m a.s.l.
Minimum altitude

2,040 m a.s.l.
Route

Cusco
Difficulty

Moderada

Important note: Schedules are for reference only. One day before the tour, our operations team will contact you to reconfirm the schedules.

Inclusions

What’s Included

Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco.
Round-trip transfer: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Cusco.
One-way train ticket on Expedition or Voyager tourist service.
Return train ticket on Expedition or Voyager tourist service.
Round-trip bus tickets to and from Machu Picchu.
Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu (subject to availability).
Shared guided tour in English and Spanish.
Lunch in Aguas Calientes

Meals not mentioned in the itinerary.
Accommodation in Cusco or Aguas Calientes.
Personal expenses and extra purchases.

Recommendations

Before Booking

Entrance times for Machu Picchu are subject to availability.
Train schedules are subject to availability and/or changes by the railway company.
A minimum of 48 hours in advance is required to book this tour.
The earlier you book, the better train and Machu Picchu entry times we can secure.
The tour is offered in two languages: English and Spanish.
Requirements: a high physical level is not needed, but good health is required.
Shared group service.
IMPORTANT: Before booking, check availability with our customer service center (JivoChat or WhatsApp). If no tickets are available, you will receive a 90% refund within 15 to 30 days.
If there are no tickets for Circuit 2, alternatives for Circuits 1 or 3 are offered at an additional cost.
After processing your ticket and train reservation, no changes or cancellations are allowed (non-refundable).

Before Traveling

A light backpack.
Light clothing.
Sturdy footwear, preferably for trekking.
Warm clothing and waterproof layers, if necessary.
Sunscreen.

Legal and safety requirements before traveling

Tour policies

Cancellations up to 5 business days before the tour:50% penalty of the total amount + 6% payment processing fee.
Cancellations within 5 days prior or No Show: 100% penalty of the total amount (non-refundable).
Partial payments: If only a 50% deposit was made, it is non-refundable.
Non-refundable services: Tickets to Machu Picchu, train, and bus services are personal, non-transferable, and non-refundable.
Date changes:Allowed up to 72 hours before the tour, subject to availability. A 100% penalty applies to entrance tickets and train services.
Promotional rates: All special offers and promotional fares are non-refundable.
Force majeure: In cases of strikes, extreme weather, or emergencies:
✔ Tour rescheduling will be offered
✔ Or a 25% administrative fee will apply
Refunds: Processed within 7 to 45 business days, subject to evaluation.

Prices & Options

Rate per Person	Base Price
PERUVIAN TRAVELER	US$ 325 USD
TRAVELER FROM THE ANDEAN COMMUNITY	US$ 340 USD
FOREIGN TRAVELER	US$ 375 USD

Additional Services

GETTING BACK BY TRAIN DRESSED ME + 75 USD

TRAIN RETURN OBSERVATORY VISTADOME + 90 USD

LUNCH IN MACHU PICCHU + 55 USD

Frequently asked questions

What type of train is included in this tour?

We will include the Expedition train by PeruRail or the Voyager train by Inca Rail in our Machu Picchu Full Day Tour.

Can we upgrade the train service?

Yes, we can upgrade to the Vistadome or Vistadome Observatory train for an additional cost. Contact our travel agents via WhatsApp for a personalized quote.

What circuit does the tour include at Machu Picchu?

The tour includes Circuit 2, which covers the most important areas of Machu Picchu. However, it depends on availability, so we recommend confirming with us before booking.

When is the high tourist season in Machu Picchu?

High season dates are Easter (April 7–11), Inti Raymi (June 20–25), National Holidays (July 28–31), All Saints’ Day (November 1–4), and Christmas–New Year (December 23–January 1).

How long does the Machu Picchu Full Day tour last?

The full experience lasts around 19 hours, from hotel pickup in Cusco to return at night.

Is the Machu Picchu Full Day tour suitable for everyone?

Yes, this tour is suitable for travelers in good health. It does not require intense physical activity, just moderate walking.

What should we bring for the tour?

We recommend a light backpack, trekking shoes, rain jacket, sunscreen, and personal identification.

Can we add lunch in Machu Picchu?

Yes, lunch in Machu Picchu can be added for an additional cost. It offers a delicious Peruvian buffet with local ingredients.

Do train and bus tickets sell out quickly?

Yes, especially during peak seasons. Booking at least 30 days in advance ensures the best schedules and availability.

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Machu Picchu day trip: Explore the Inca Citadel

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Traveler experiences

Hear from Those Who Have Experienced the Magic of Our Tours

4.9 out of 5 from more than 1,200 reviews

See all reviews on TripAdvisor

Carmelo G.

jun. 2026 • Parejas

Fue una linda experiencia y un servicio muy profesional de la agencia.

VIAJANDO CON GATITOS

jul. 2026

Recomendamos al 100% la agencia Machu Picchu Peru Tours. Nos atendieron desde el momento en que llegamos y estuvieron pendientes de nosotros durante todo el viaje. La atención al cliente fue excelente, siempre muy amables y atentos. Los hoteles fueron muy buenos y todos los servicios estuvieron muy bien organizados. Sin duda, una excelente opción para conocer Cusco y Machu Picchu. ¡Muchas gracias por hacer de nuestro viaje una experiencia inolvidable!

Agostina Z.

ago. 2026

Muy linda experiencia! El traslado y el guía estuvieron muy bien. Es una caminata exigente pero muy bonita. Estaría bueno tener una media hora más para recuperarse y subir hasta la cima donde salen mejores fotos. Al menos con mi estado físico no me dio el aire para hacer todo tan rápido!

Machu Picchu day trip: Explore the Inca Citadel

Itinerary