Embarking on a private tour of Machu Picchu from Cusco is an unparalleled opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The Vistadome train journey offers a scenic and immersive experience, transporting you through the stunning Andean landscapes. Once at the ancient site, a guided exploration unveils the iconic landmarks, from the captivating Main Square to the enigmatic Temple of the Condor. With convenient pickup options and a wealth of inclusions, this adventure promises an unforgettable glimpse into the rich history and cultural significance of this iconic Inca citadel. What secrets and marvels await those who choose to…
Key Points
- Private day trip from Cusco to Machu Picchu with a 2.5-hour guided exploration, priced between £456.21 and £433.40 per person.
- Includes roundtrip transportation by bus, Vistadome train, and bus, as well as entrance to Machu Picchu Circuits 1, 2, and 3.
- Offers an immersive experience with a live tour guide in English and Spanish, and the option to climb Wayna Picchu.
- Non-refundable cancellation policy, with pickup locations in Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, and Cusco.
- Highlighted features include panoramic Andes views from the Vistadome train and opportunities to capture classic photos at Machu Picchu.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview and Pricing
- Itinerary and Transportation
- Experience Highlights
- Inclusions and Exclusions
- Important Information and Restrictions
- Customer Reviews
- Pickup and Drop-off Locations
- Train Journey and Exploration
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to Machu Picchu?
- Is Photography Allowed Inside the Machu Picchu Site?
- Can I Explore Machu Picchu on My Own Without a Guide?
- Is There a Weight Limit for the Vistadome Train?
- Can I Extend My Stay in Aguas Calientes After the Tour?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Cusco
- More Private Tours in Cusco
- More Tours in Cusco
- More Tour Reviews in Cusco
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Tour Overview and Pricing
The private day trip from Cusco to Machu Picchu is typically priced from £456.21 to £433.40 per person, allowing customers to save up to 5%.
This 1-day tour offers an immersive experience, with a live tour guide available in English and Spanish. The non-refundable cancellation policy applies.
Pickup options include Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, and Cusco, with the travel sequence involving bus/coach, train, and bus/coach again to reach and return from Machu Picchu.
The tour includes entrance to the Machu Picchu Circuit 1, 2, and 3, subject to availability, as well as the opportunity to climb Wayna Picchu mountain.
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Itinerary and Transportation
For the private Machu Picchu tour, pickup options include Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, and Cusco.
The transportation sequence starts with a 2-hour bus or coach ride, followed by a 100-minute train journey on the Vistadome. After reaching Aguas Calientes, guests will board a 30-minute bus to Machu Picchu.
The guided tour of the iconic site lasts 2.5 hours. The return follows the same route – 30-minute bus, 100-minute train, and 2-hour bus or coach.
Drop-off locations are Ollantaytambo, Cusco, and Urubamba. This comprehensive itinerary ensures travelers experience the best of Machu Picchu, from the scenic train ride to the guided exploration of the main monuments.
Experience Highlights
Visiting Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, is the highlight of this private tour.
The panoramic views from the Vistadome train are truly breathtaking as it winds through the Andes mountains. Upon arrival, the guided exploration uncovers the main monuments, including the Main Square, Temple of the Three Windows, Temple of the Condor, and Intihuatana.
Guests have the opportunity to capture the classic photo at the lookout point. After the tour, there’s free time in Aguas Calientes to explore the town or enjoy a local lunch.
The tour provides a well-rounded experience of this iconic Inca citadel, blending transportation, knowledgeable guidance, and ample opportunity to take in the site’s history and natural beauty.
Inclusions and Exclusions
Included in this private tour of Machu Picchu are a pre-trip briefing at the hotel, pickup and return from the guest’s hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, private tourist transportation, the Vistadome train to Machu Picchu, bus transport to and from the site, entrance to Circuits 1, 2, and 3 (subject to availability), a professional private guide, and access to Wayna Picchu mountain. Excluded from the tour are food, drinks, and tips. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, guests are advised to bring their passport, warm clothing, sunglasses, camera, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Certain items, such as pets, oversized luggage, baby strollers, drones, and tripods, are not allowed.
| Included | Excluded |
|---|---|
| Pre-trip briefing | Food and drinks |
| Hotel pickup and return | Tips |
| Private transportation | N/A |
| Vistadome train | N/A |
Important Information and Restrictions
Guests must bring their passport, warm clothing, sunglasses, camera, sunscreen, and insect repellent to ensure a comfortable and successful experience.
Pets, oversized luggage, baby strollers, drones, and tripods aren’t allowed. Plus, visitors must refrain from littering and jumping.
Children as young as 3 years old must pay the entrance fee, and ticket assignments are based on availability.
The tour offers three circuit options, each providing unique experiences – Circuit 1 offers the best panoramic views, Circuit 2 follows the classic route, and Circuit 3 includes various routes like Waynapicchu Mountain, Royal Route, and Great Cavern Route.
Customer Reviews
As reflected in the overall 5/5 rating based on 41 reviews, customers have been overwhelmingly satisfied with the private tour of Machu Picchu.
Reviewers highlighted the tour’s impeccable organization, from hotel pickup to return. The exceptional guide provided an educational and entertaining experience, imparting insightful information about the ancient Inca site.
Customers were in awe of the stunning Vistadome train ride, which offered breathtaking panoramic views of the Andes mountains.
Pickup and Drop-off Locations
Where can travelers be picked up and dropped off for this private Machu Picchu tour?
The tour offers pickup and drop-off options in three locations:
- Urubamba
- Ollantaytambo
- Cusco
The return sequence follows the same route in reverse, with drop-off locations at Ollantaytambo, Cusco, and Urubamba.
This flexibility allows travelers to conveniently access the tour from various points in the Sacred Valley and Cusco region.
The private transportation ensures a seamless journey to and from the iconic Machu Picchu site, maximizing the time spent exploring this New Wonder of the World.
Train Journey and Exploration
After being picked up from their designated location, travelers embark on the scenic Vistadome train journey to Machu Picchu. The 100-minute train ride offers panoramic views of the Andes mountains, setting the stage for the remarkable experience to come.
| Circuit | Access to Temple Area | Panoramic Views |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | No | Best |
| 2 | Yes | Good |
| 3 | Yes | Varied |
Upon arrival at Aguas Calientes, the group takes a 30-minute bus ride up the mountain to reach the iconic Machu Picchu site. A professional private guide leads the 2.5-hour exploration, providing insights into the main monuments and offering opportunities for classic photos.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to Machu Picchu?
According to the tour information, food and drinks are not included in the tour package. Visitors are allowed to bring their own food and drinks to Machu Picchu, though the tour doesn’t provide this service.
Is Photography Allowed Inside the Machu Picchu Site?
Photography is allowed inside the Machu Picchu site, but the use of tripods, drones, and professional equipment is prohibited. Visitors are encouraged to capture the stunning scenery and historic structures with their cameras and smartphones.
Can I Explore Machu Picchu on My Own Without a Guide?
No, you cannot explore Machu Picchu on your own without a guide. All visitors to Machu Picchu must be accompanied by an authorized guide to ensure proper access and to provide educational information about the site’s history and significance.
Is There a Weight Limit for the Vistadome Train?
There’s no specific weight limit for the Vistadome train. However, passengers are advised to avoid bringing oversized luggage as storage space is limited. Travelers should pack light and follow the tour’s luggage guidelines to ensure a comfortable journey.
Can I Extend My Stay in Aguas Calientes After the Tour?
Yes, you can extend your stay in Aguas Calientes after the tour. The tour includes free time in Aguas Calientes, allowing you to explore the town or have lunch before returning to your original pickup location.
From Cusco: Private Tour of Machu Picchu by Vistadome Train
Recap
Exploring Machu Picchu on a private tour from Cusco via the scenic Vistadome train offers an unforgettable experience. Visitors can admire the ancient ruins, marvel at the stunning panoramic views, and gain a unique insight into one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. This immersive day trip promises an unforgettable adventure, showcasing the breathtaking beauty and rich history of this iconic Inca site.
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