2-Day Trip to Machu Picchu Without Tickets

Exploring Machu Picchu, one of the world’s most captivating wonders, just got more accessible with the 2-Day Trip. While the base package won’t cover the entrance fees, it presents an opportunity to experience the journey hassle-free. From scenic train rides to guided tours, this compact itinerary packs a punch. However, travelers must budget separately for the iconic citadel’s admission, which can significantly impact the overall cost. With thoughtful planning, this 2-day adventure promises an unforgettable glimpse into Peru’s ancient past. What intrigues you most about this Machu Picchu experience?

Key Points

• The 2-day Machu Picchu trip includes roundtrip train, 1-night hotel stay, guided tour, and bus transport back to Cusco, but excludes Machu Picchu entrance tickets.
• Travelers can purchase the Machu Picchu entrance tickets separately, allowing them to manage their budget and schedule flexibly.
• The package focuses on providing hassle-free access to Machu Picchu, including transportation and accommodation, allowing travelers to explore the site independently.
• The itinerary includes a scenic train journey, afternoon exploration in Aguas Calientes, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu on the second day.
• Travelers should budget for additional costs such as lunch, drinks, and optional hikes, as well as consider the physical and environmental challenges of visiting Machu Picchu.

Trip Overview and Pricing

The 2-Day Trip to Machu Picchu offers an all-inclusive adventure from Cusco for $429.00 per person.

Travelers can reserve their spot with the option to pay later, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

The 2-day itinerary includes hotel pickup, roundtrip train transportation, 1-night hotel stay, guided tour of Machu Picchu, and bus transport back to Cusco.

Additional costs may include lunch, drinks, and optional hikes.

Guests can explore the ancient Inca citadel and enjoy free time in the charming town of Aguas Calientes.

This immersive experience provides a hassle-free way to visit the iconic Machu Picchu.

Itinerary Details

The 2-day itinerary for the Machu Picchu tour begins with hotel pickup from Cusco.

Travelers take a 2-hour drive to the Ollantaytambo train station and then enjoy a 1.5-hour scenic train journey to Aguas Calientes. The afternoon and evening are free to explore the charming town.

On day 2, after breakfast, guests board a bus for the short ride up to Machu Picchu. A 2.5-hour guided tour covers the site’s highlights, including the Sacred Plaza, Temple of the Sun, and Royal Residence.

Afterward, there’s free time for independent exploration, with an optional hike up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. Lunch in Aguas Calientes precedes the return journey to Cusco.

Day 1 Highlights

Excitement builds as the journey begins, with travelers embarking on a 2-hour drive from Cusco to the Ollantaytambo train station.

The scenic train ride through the Andes lasts 1.5 hours, delivering guests to the charming town of Aguas Calientes.

With the afternoon and evening free, visitors can explore the quaint streets, discover local shops and restaurants, and prepare for the main event tomorrow.

Anticipation grows as they settle into their hotel, knowing they’ll witness the iconic Machu Picchu in the morning.

Day 2 Highlights

Anticipation reaches a crescendo as the travelers awake to a hearty breakfast, fueling them for the day’s main event.

After a short bus ride, they arrive at the iconic Machu Picchu, where an experienced guide leads them on a 2.5-hour tour, unveiling the mysteries of the Sacred Plaza, Temple of the Sun, and Royal Residence.

With two hours of free exploration time, travelers can venture off the beaten path, capturing breathtaking vistas and seeing the ancient Inca civilization.

For the more adventurous, the option to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountains offers unparalleled panoramic views before the return journey to Cusco.

Inclusions

This 2-day trip to Machu Picchu includes several key inclusions to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

The package covers hotel pickup and drop-off, roundtrip train transportation via Vistadome or Expedition, a 1-night hotel stay with breakfast, and bus transportation from Aguas Calientes to Cusco.

Plus, a knowledgeable English-speaking guide is provided for the 2.5-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu, covering must-see sites like the Sacred Plaza, Temple of the Sun, and Royal Residence.

With these inclusions, travelers can focus on seeing the wonder of Machu Picchu without worrying about logistics.

Additional Costs

While the 2-day Machu Picchu trip includes several key inclusions, there are some additional costs travelers should be aware of.

Lunch isn’t covered and can cost around $25 per person. Visitors will also need to pay for any drinks they consume.

Plus, there are optional activities that come with fees, like hiking Huayna Picchu ($60) or Machu Picchu Mountain ($65).

The admission ticket to the Machu Picchu archaeological site itself costs $40.70 for foreign adults and $17.10 for Peruvian adults.

These optional activities and site entry fees aren’t included in the base tour price, so travelers should budget accordingly for the full experience.

Booking Information

To secure a spot on the 2-day Machu Picchu trip, travelers can check availability for their desired travel dates and number of participants.

Once availability is confirmed, they can reserve their spot without upfront payment using the "Reserve now & pay later" option. This allows them to book their trip and pay later, making it easier to plan their travel arrangements.

The trip has free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for travelers.

Trip Considerations

Travelers planning a 2-day trip to Machu Picchu should consider several factors to ensure a successful and memorable experience.

Key considerations include:

1. Physical fitness: The hike through Machu Picchu requires a moderate level of fitness, as it involves navigating uneven terrain and stairs.

2. Altitude: Cusco and Machu Picchu sit at high altitudes, which can cause altitude sickness. Proper acclimatization and hydration are crucial.

3. Weather: The weather in the region can be unpredictable, with chances of rain, fog, or sun. Packing appropriate clothing is essential.

4. Timing: Early morning and late afternoon visits to Machu Picchu often provide the best light and fewer crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Visit Machu Picchu Without Advance Tickets?

Yes, one can visit Machu Picchu without advance tickets. However, it’s recommended to purchase tickets in advance to ensure availability and avoid long queues at the entrance. Advance booking is especially important during peak seasons.

How Can I Get to Machu Picchu Without a Tour?

To visit Machu Picchu without a tour, one can take the train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, then purchase admission tickets and bus tickets to the site. This allows independent exploration of the ruins.

What Are the Options for Visiting Machu Picchu Independently?

Travelers can visit Machu Picchu independently by purchasing tickets directly, arranging their own transportation, and exploring the site self-guided. This offers more flexibility but requires more planning and logistics compared to joining a guided tour.

Are There Any Last-Minute Machu Picchu Ticket Options?

There are no reliable last-minute Machu Picchu ticket options. Advance reservations are required, and tickets often sell out weeks or months in advance. Visitors should book their tickets well before their planned trip to ensure availability.

Can I Explore Machu Picchu on My Own Without a Guide?

Visitors can explore Machu Picchu on their own without a guide, but they’ll miss out on important historical context and insights. A guided tour provides a deeper understanding of this iconic Inca site.

Recap

The 2-Day Trip to Machu Picchu offers an immersive experience, but travelers should be aware that entrance fees to the iconic site are not included in the base price. Careful budgeting for these additional costs is crucial to fully enjoy the scenic train rides, guided tours, and hotel accommodations. With the right planning, visitors can make the most of this unforgettable Peruvian adventure.