Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco

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During our Machu Picchu day trip By Train from Cusco, you’ll dedicate a day to the exploration of Machu Picchu, the famous Inca Citadel. This comprehensive day trip departs from Cusco and offers a chance to uncover the secrets of this iconic mountaintop Inca site with the guidance of a local expert. Gain insights into its construction, historical significance, and the daily routines of its inhabitants. The tour maintains a leisurely and non-taxing pace, making it an excellent choice for newcomers, families, and solo adventurers alike.

During our Machu Picchu day trip By Train from Cusco, you’ll dedicate a day to the exploration of Machu Picchu, the famous Inca Citadel. This comprehensive day trip departs from Cusco and offers a chance to uncover the secrets of this iconic mountaintop Inca site with the guidance of a local expert. Gain insights into its construction, historical significance, and the daily routines of its inhabitants. The tour maintains a leisurely and non-taxing pace, making it an excellent choice for newcomers, families, and solo adventurers alike.

From
$
280
USD

Book now by paying a percentage of the total price and pay the rest when you arrive.

This price is applicable for groups of 02 people or more. If you are traveling alone, please consult with our travel consultants.

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Don't miss Machu Picchu

Normally booked 60 days in advance.

What's included

  • Hotel Pick-up – Cusco
    Our professional guide will meet you punctually at the reception area of your hotel in Cusco. The guide will be easily identifiable by wearing a jacket with the Bigfoot Machu Picchu logo.
  • Meals
What's included
  • Hotel Pick-up – Cusco
    Our professional guide will meet you punctually at the reception area of your hotel in Cusco. The guide will be easily identifiable by wearing a jacket with the Bigfoot Machu Picchu logo.
  • Tourist Transportation: Cusco to Ollantaytambo
    Enjoy a comfortable journey in a tourist van from Cusco to the Ollantaytambo train station.
  • Outbound Train Ticket: Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
    We include the Expedition Train, offering beautiful scenic views throughout the trip. Departure is scheduled around 5:00 a.m.
  • Round-Trip Bus Tickets: Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
    Includes two bus tickets—one for the ascent to Machu Picchu and one for the return to Aguas Calientes.
  • Machu Picchu Entrance Ticket – Circuit 2
    This ticket grants access to the most iconic and scenic parts of the archaeological site. If Circuit 2 is unavailable, we will notify you promptly to offer alternatives such as Circuit 1 or 3.
  • Professional Guide – English or Spanish
    Our certified guides are experienced, university-trained, and passionate about Inca history. They will provide a comprehensive guided tour of approximately 2 hours, explaining each section of Machu Picchu in an informative and engaging way.
  • Return Train Ticket: Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
    We include your return ticket on the Expedition Train, scheduled between 2:55 p.m. and 3:20 p.m.
  • Private Transportation: Ollantaytambo to Cusco
    Upon your arrival in Ollantaytambo, our driver will be waiting to comfortably take you back to your hotel in Cusco.
  • Oxygen Tank Onboard
    As the van reaches altitudes of up to 3,700 meters above sea level, we carry an oxygen tank for safety in case of altitude discomfort.
  • First Aid Kit
    Our guides carry a basic first aid kit to manage minor issues or emergencies during the tour.
  • 24/7 Assistance
    Our support team is available at all times via phone or WhatsApp to assist you before, during, and after your experience.
  • Meals
  • Tips

Itinerary

Day 1
Cusco - Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Return

Description

Hotel Pickup in Cusco

We will pick you up from your hotel early in the morning for your unforgettable day trip to Machu Picchu. You’ll travel in our private transportation for about 1.5 hours through the Sacred Valley to the train station in Ollantaytambo.

Train Ride: Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes

Hop aboard the Expedition train for a scenic 1.5-hour journey to Aguas Calientes. Enjoy incredible views of snow-capped mountains, the Urubamba River, green valleys, and ancient agricultural terraces along the way.

Arrival in Aguas Calientes

Once we arrive in Aguas Calientes, we’ll take the shuttle bus for a 30-minute ride up to Machu Picchu.

Entrance to Machu Picchu

At the checkpoint, you’ll show your original passport and entry ticket (held by your guide). Then we’ll begin the experience with a stop at the Guardhouse, the famous postcard spot, for amazing panoramic photos.

Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

Enjoy a 2-hour guided tour with one of our expert local guides. You’ll explore the most iconic areas of the Inca citadel, including:

  • The Temple of the Sun

  • The Temple of the Three Windows

  • The Sacred Plaza

  • The House of the Inca

  • The Sacred Rock

  • Wayrana sector and more.

Return to Aguas Calientes

Take the bus back down to the town of Aguas Calientes. You’ll have free time to explore, shop for souvenirs, or have lunch at one of the local restaurants.

Train Back to Ollantaytambo

Board your return train for another scenic journey back to Ollantaytambo.

Private Transfer: Ollantaytambo to Cusco

Upon arrival, our driver will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Cusco by private van.

Arrival at Your Hotel in Cusco

We will drop you off directly at your hotel. End of a magical day!

flag-swallowtail
Certified local guide

GUIDE

map
guided from 2 to 3 hours.

MACHU PICCHU

Voyager or expeditions

TRAIN

Dificulty

EASY

Meeting and pick-up

Pickup Points

Free pickup from hotels, hostels, houses, apartments anywhere in the city of Cusco or in the Sacred Valley.

Start time

05:00 AM

Pickup Details

After booking, you can contact us to provide your pickup information. It is very important that your hotel has vehicle access; otherwise, we will arrange a meeting point.

Information about Machu Picchu 1 day trip from Cusco

Why go?

For many visitors to Peru and even South America, a visit to the Inca city of Machu Picchu is the long-anticipated highpoint of their trip. In a spectacular location, it’s the best-known archeological site on the continent. The Ina city remained forgotten for almost four centuries after the Spaniards arrived in Cusco in the 16th century. Machu Picchu is also a niche of astounding biodiversity with hundreds of birds, exotic flowers, and dense tropical nature….

Información Importante

Why go?

For many visitors to Peru and even South America, a visit to the Inca city of Machu Picchu is the long-anticipated highpoint of their trip. In a spectacular location, it’s the best-known archeological site on the continent. The Ina city remained forgotten for almost four centuries after the Spaniards arrived in Cusco in the 16th century. Machu Picchu is also a niche of astounding biodiversity with hundreds of birds, exotic flowers, and dense tropical nature. 

When to go?

The best months to visit Cuzco are from March to December, although Machu Picchu is available all year long. Just make sure to reserve the Machu Picchu tickets and Train tickets in advance

Getting here.

All the international flights get to Lima Aeropuerto Internacional Jorge Chavez, and from Lima airport, you have to catch another plane all the way to Cusco. Get to Machu Picchu there are only three ways, by train, by bus, and by train through Santa Teresa or by the Inca Trail. 

Departure Dates.

Daily departures are available through the year, although this activity is subject to the Machu Picchu tickets and Train tickets, the sooner you book the better is for your travel agency in Cusco to book all the tickets required. 

Price information.

The price of this tour is based on two people, if you are a solo traveler you will need to contact our sales department so they can quote a price for a solo traveler.

Group size.

Group size is decided by the client, to reserve this tour we require at least 2 travelers. If you on a small group of 2 people, you will be able to hear the guide better, explanations can be geared toward your particular interest, you can decide which sites you want to see, and you can stay as long as it’s permitted rather than being herded back on to the bus before you are ready.   

Climbing Huayna Picchu.

climbin huayna picchu mountain

Climbing Huayna Picchu Mountain is one of the most thrilling experiences in Machu Picchu. The trail is steep and narrow, taking about 2 hours round trip. It reaches an altitude of 2,720 meters (8,923 ft) and offers incredible views of the Inca citadel from above.

Along the way, you’ll also see fascinating ruins like the Temple of the Moon. Due to its popularity, permits are limited to 200 people per time slot, so early booking is essential.

This hike is perfect for adventurous travelers looking for a unique and unforgettable view of Machu Picchu.

Climbing Machu Picchu mountain.

climbing machu picchu mountain

Climbing Machu Picchu Mountain offers a breathtaking adventure above the Inca citadel. The hike is moderate to challenging, reaching an altitude of 3,082 meters (10,111 ft). It takes about 3 hours round trip and rewards hikers with incredible panoramic views of Machu Picchu, the surrounding mountains, and the Urubamba River.

Entry requires a separate ticket, and it’s important to book in advance, as permits are limited. The trail is less crowded than Huayna Picchu and offers a wider, safer path, making it ideal for those seeking a peaceful, scenic hike.

About Trains

Train CategoryEstimated Price (One Way)Main FeaturesIncludes
Expedition$70 – $90Affordable option with panoramic windows.Comfortable seats, light snack, hot drink, Andean music.
Vistadome$90 – $120Larger panoramic windows for better scenic views.Snack, drink, onboard cultural show (on return journey).
Vistadome Observatory$120 – $150Includes an observatory-style carriage with open balcony.Drinks, snack, live Andean music show, premium panoramic views.
Sacred Valley Train$180 – $250Premium service departing from Urubamba.Gourmet lunch, welcome drink, luxury seating, onboard music and entertainment.
Hiram Bingham$480 – $500+Luxury train with all-inclusive service and elegant vintage style.Gourmet meals, open bar, private guide, exclusive bus, Machu Picchu entrance, live music.

Prices

MACHU PICCHU TOUR 1 DAY FROM CUSCO – PRICE PER PERSON

  • From $350 USD – Adults
  • From $330 USD – Students (under 25 years of age)
  • From $30 USD  – Children (3-8 years old)
Prices

MACHU PICCHU TOUR 1 DAY PRICE PER PERSON

  • From $350 USD – Adults
  • From $330 USD – Students (under 25 years of age)
  • From $30 USD  – Children (3-8 years old)

 STUDENT DISCOUNT

  • Discount: 20 USD

The student discount can reduce the price of your entrance ticket to Machu Picchu by approximately 20USD depending on the type of ticket. You must be a student of higher education (university or high school) and be under 25 years of age.

REQUIREMENTS FOR THE STUDENT ID

To benefit from the student discount, travelers must present a valid student ID that meets the following criteria:

  • Must be 25 years old or younger at the time of entry to Machu Picchu. Travelers over the age of 25 are not eligible for the student discount.
  • The ID must include the name of the university, as well as the name and photograph of the student.
  • The ID must be current and not expired.

VALID STUDENT ID

INVALID STUDENT IDS

Student IDs will not be accepted for a discount under the following circumstances:

  • The traveler is over the age of 25.
  • The ID is expired.
  • The student ID does not include an expiration date.
  • ISIC cards are not considered valid for this discount.

INVALID STUDENT ID

CHILDREN DISCOUNTS

  • All children under 8 years old have a 30 USD discount on this tour.



Cancellation Policy

This tour cannot be cancelled

Once issued, entrance tickets to Machu Picchu cannot be cancelled, exchanged or refunded. This is because the tickets are nominative and are regulated directly by the Peruvian Ministry of Culture. Each ticket is linked to the visitor’s name, passport number, and specific date, which guarantees strict control of daily capacity at the sanctuary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you do Machu Picchu in 1 day?

Yes, you can visit Machu Picchu in one day, but it is a bit tight. Plan to arrive early, explore the ruins and return in the afternoon. To fully appreciate Machu Picchu, consider a multi-day visit, which will allow you more time to explore and experience the beauty and history of this iconic Inca site…

Preguntas Frecuentes

Can you do Machu Picchu in 1 day?

Yes, you can visit Machu Picchu in one day, but it is a bit tight. Plan to arrive early, explore the ruins and return in the afternoon. To fully appreciate Machu Picchu, consider a multi-day visit, which will allow you more time to explore and experience the beauty and history of this iconic Inca site.


When Is The Best Time To Visit Machu Picchu?

“The optimal period for touring Machu Picchu is during the shoulder seasons, namely April, May, September, October, and November. These months offer minimal rainfall, comfortable temperatures, and a reprieve from the frigid winter nights of the high season. Additionally, visitor numbers tend to be lower during this time.”


Do I need to book the tour in advance?

Yes. Machu Picchu has limited daily entries, and tickets often sell out weeks or months in advance—especially during high season (May to September). We recommend booking at least one month in advance.


How long is the tour?

The tour lasts around 16 hours, from about 4:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., including all transfers, guided tour, and free time in Aguas Calientes.


Can I choose the train departure time?

Yes, depending on availability. We recommend early morning departures to enjoy more time in Machu Picchu. You can also request Vistadome panoramic train upgrades.


Which circuit do I visit in Machu Picchu?

There are different circuits for exploring Machu Picchu. The most requested is Circuit 2, which covers the main viewpoints and highlights. If this is unavailable, we’ll notify you and offer options for Circuit 1 or 3.


Do I need to bring my passport?

Yes. Your original passport is required to enter Machu Picchu and board the train. Please don’t forget it.


Can I hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?

Yes, but those tickets must be purchased in advance and have limited availability. We recommend booking as early as possible if you want to include a hike.


Can I store my luggage?

Yes. You can leave your large suitcase at your hotel in Cusco and bring only a daypack. Many hotels in Aguas Calientes also offer luggage storage.


What if it rains on the day of the tour?

The tour runs rain or shine, so please come prepared. Even in fog or rain, Machu Picchu is still a magical and unforgettable place.


Do you offer medical support or oxygen?

Yes. Our vans carry oxygen tanks and our guides have basic first-aid kits. They are trained to assist in case of altitude sickness or other issues.


Can I cancel or reschedule my tour?

This depends on your booking conditions. Most train and Machu Picchu tickets are non-refundable and non-changeable, but we’ll do our best to help in case of emergency.

Ratings and comments

From
$
280
USD

Book now by paying a percentage of the total price and pay the rest when you arrive.

This price is applicable for groups of 02 people or more. If you are traveling alone, please consult with our travel consultants.

fire
Don't miss Machu Picchu

Normally booked 60 days in advance.

Pedro travel advisor Big Foot Machu Picchu
Travel Advisor
Alonso

alonso travel advisor lost in peru
Travel Advisor
Carla

$280 USD

Per person