2-Day Trip to Machu Picchu Without Entrance Fees

Visiting the majestic Machu Picchu is on many travelers’ bucket lists. While a 2-day trip from Cusco may seem like a convenient option at $423 per person, it’s important to note that the entrance fees to the archaeological site are not included. These essential costs must be budgeted separately to fully experience the wonder of this ancient Inca citadel. Beyond the logistics, the true highlight of any Machu Picchu journey lies in immersing oneself in the captivating history and breathtaking vistas that have captivated explorers for generations. Navigating the additional requirements can ensure an enriching and memorable adventure.

Key Points

• The 2-day Machu Picchu trip package costs $423 per person and includes roundtrip transportation, a scenic train ride, 1-night hotel stay, and a guided tour.
• Additional costs not covered in the package price include lunch, drinks, and optional hikes to Huayna Picchu ($60) and Machu Picchu Mountain ($65).
• The itinerary involves a pickup from Cusco, a train ride to Aguas Calientes, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu on the second day.
• The package offers a full refund for cancellations made up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility.
• The guided tour is available in both Spanish and English, ensuring an informative and accessible experience for all visitors.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Trip Overview and Pricing

This 2-day trip to Machu Picchu from Cusco costs $423.00 per person.

Customers can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. There’s also a reserve now, pay later option available.

The trip includes roundtrip transportation from Cusco, a 1.5-hour scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, a 1-night hotel stay with breakfast, and a guided 2.5-hour tour of Machu Picchu.

Visitors will have 2 hours of free time to explore or hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountains.

Additional costs include lunch, drinks, and entrance fees for the Machu Picchu archaeological site and optional hikes.

Itinerary and Experience

The 2-day trip to Machu Picchu begins with a pickup from Cusco, followed by a 2-hour ride to the Ollantaytambo train station.

Travelers then enjoy a 1.5-hour scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, where they’ve the afternoon and evening free to explore the town.

On the second day, after a hotel breakfast, they board a bus to Machu Picchu and embark on a 2.5-hour guided tour, visiting highlights like the Sacred Plaza and Temple of the Sun.

Afterward, they’ve 2 hours of free time for self-exploration or optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountains.

Transportation and Accommodation

Roundtrip transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo train station and back, as well as the train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and return, are all included in the package.

You’ll also enjoy:

1. 1 night’s stay at a hotel in Aguas Calientes with breakfast.
2. Convenient bus transportation from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
3. Flexibility to explore Aguas Calientes on your own during the afternoon and evening of the first day.

This comprehensive transportation and accommodation package allows you to focus on experiencing the magic of Machu Picchu without hassle.

Guided Tour and Language

A knowledgeable live tour guide is available during the guided tour of Machu Picchu, offering commentary in both Spanish and English.

The guide provides insights into the history, architecture, and significance of the ancient Inca site, ensuring visitors gain a deeper understanding of this wonder of the world.

Whether you’re fluent in Spanish or English, the tour caters to your language preference, making it an accessible and informative experience for all.

The guide’s expertise enhances the overall exploration, allowing you to fully learn about the magic of Machu Picchu.

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Additional Costs

Along With the base tour price, travelers should plan for several additional costs associated with their Machu Picchu experience.

These include:

1. Lunch: Approximately $25 per person.

2. Entrance fees:

   • Huayna Picchu Mountain: $60 per person
   • Machu Picchu Mountain: $65 per person
   • Machu Picchu archaeological site: $40.70 for foreign adults, $17.20 for Peruvian adults.

3. Drinks and any other personal expenses.

It’s important to factor in these additional costs when budgeting for the 2-day Machu Picchu trip to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Machu Picchu Entrance Fees

Visiting Machu Picchu requires several entrance fees that travelers must be aware of. The most important fee is the Machu Picchu archaeological site admission, which costs S/152 (US$40.70) for foreign adults and S/64 (US$17.20) for Peruvian adults. Optional add-ons include climbing Huayna Picchu Mountain for US$60 per person or Machu Picchu Mountain for US$65 per person.

Fee	Foreign Adult	Peruvian Adult
Machu Picchu Archaeological Site	S/152 (US$40.70)	S/64 (US$17.20)
Huayna Picchu Mountain	US$60	US$60
Machu Picchu Mountain	US$65	US$65

It’s important to factor these costs into your Machu Picchu trip planning to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Hiking Options

Aside from exploring the ruins of Machu Picchu, visitors can opt to embark on two popular hiking experiences – Huayna Picchu Mountain and Machu Picchu Mountain.

These hikes offer breathtaking views and a unique perspective of the ancient citadel. To access these hikes, visitors must purchase separate tickets:

1. Huayna Picchu Mountain: A challenging 2-hour round-trip hike with an elevation gain of 360 meters, offering panoramic vistas of Machu Picchu.

2. Machu Picchu Mountain: A moderately difficult 3-hour round-trip hike with an elevation gain of 700 meters, providing a bird’s-eye view of the entire site.

3. Visitors should book these hikes in advance as the number of daily permits is limited.

Cancellation Policy

Although the 2-day Machu Picchu trip offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, travelers should be aware of the policy’s details.

The free cancellation applies to the full package, including transportation, train tickets, and accommodation. Cancellations made within 24 hours of the trip start time aren’t eligible for a refund.

Plus, there’s a "reserve now & pay later" option available, allowing travelers to secure their spot without an immediate payment. This provides flexibility, but the cancellation policy still applies.

Regardless of the booking method, it’s crucial to review the terms and conditions to ensure a smooth and worry-free experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Best Spots for Taking Photos at Machu Picchu?

The best photo spots at Machu Picchu are the Sacred Plaza, the Temple of the Sun, and the Royal Residence. Visitors can also capture stunning views from the Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu mountains.

How Much Time Is Needed to Explore Machu Picchu Thoroughly?

To thoroughly explore Machu Picchu, visitors should plan for at least 3-4 hours. This allows time to wander the ruins, visit key sites like the Sun Gate and Wayna Picchu, and capture stunning photos from various viewpoints.

Are There Any Tips for Avoiding Crowds at the Site?

To avoid crowds at Machu Picchu, visitors should arrive early in the morning, explore the site at a leisurely pace, and consider hiking alternative trails like Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for a less crowded experience.

What Is the Weather Like During the Different Seasons?

The weather at Machu Picchu varies by season. During the dry season from May to September, it’s sunny and dry, while the rainy season from October to April brings more precipitation, cooler temperatures, and potential for landslides.

Can I Visit Machu Picchu on My Own Without a Guided Tour?

Yes, visitors can explore Machu Picchu on their own without a guided tour. However, they’ll need to purchase entrance tickets and arrange their own transportation to reach the site.

Recap

The 2-day Machu Picchu trip offers a scenic and immersive experience, with roundtrip transportation, a train ride, and hotel stay. However, visitors must budget for the essential Machu Picchu entrance fees, as well as optional hikes and lunch, to fully enjoy the rich history and breathtaking views. Careful planning is necessary to ensure a smooth and memorable trip to this iconic Peruvian wonder.

You can check if your dates are available here: