The Cusco: Machu Picchu 2-day Budget Tour by Van offers a cost-effective way to explore one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites. Priced affordably from $110 per person, the tour provides round-trip transportation, meals, and accommodation, ensuring a seamless journey to the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu. Starting early from Cusco, travelers can enjoy a scenic trek to Aguas Calientes before embarking on a guided exploration of the breathtaking ruins. With flexible circuit options and a focus on maximizing value, this tour is perfect for adventure seekers on a budget who want to enjoy the rich history and stunning landscapes of Peru.
- Key Points
- Tour Overview and Pricing
- Itinerary Details
- Day 1 Schedule
- Day 2 Schedule
- Machu Picchu Circuit Options
- Tour Inclusions
- Tour Exclusions
- Preparation and Customer Reviews
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Upgrade to a Private Tour Instead of a Shared One?
- Are There Any Age Restrictions or Limitations for This Tour?
- What Types of Dietary Requirements Can Be Accommodated?
- Is It Possible to Visit Other Sites in Addition to Machu Picchu?
- How Do I Obtain the Necessary Permits and Tickets for This Tour?
- Recap
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Key Points
- The 2-day Machu Picchu budget tour from Cusco starts at $110 per person and includes round-trip transportation, meals, accommodation, and a guided tour of the iconic site.
- The tour itinerary involves an early pick-up from Cusco, a scenic drive, a hike to Aguas Calientes, and an early ascent to Machu Picchu on the second day.
- The tour offers four distinct circuit options for exploring Machu Picchu, catering to different interests and time constraints.
- The package includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as accommodation in Aguas Calientes, but excludes beverages, travel insurance, and optional tips.
- Customers have generally rated the tour as providing good value for money, with a focus on efficiency and maximizing scenic experiences.
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Tour Overview and Pricing
For this 2-day budget tour to Machu Picchu, the price starts from $110.00 per person.
The tour includes round-trip transportation from Cusco, meals, accommodation, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu.
While the cancellation policy is non-refundable, the tour offers a live guide in English and Spanish.
Pickup is provided from downtown hotels and Airbnbs, with a 10-minute window before departure.
The tour duration is 2 days, making it a compact yet affordable way to experience the iconic Inca ruins.
With a 4.4/5 rating based on 38 reviews, this budget tour provides good value for money.
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Itinerary Details
The 2-day Machu Picchu budget tour starts bright and early, with pick-up from Cusco between 5:50 to 6:00 a.m.
First, you’ll stop for breakfast in Ollantaytambo before continuing on a scenic drive to the high-altitude Abra Málaga.
From there, you’ll transfer to the Hydroelectric station and trek for 3 hours to reach Aguas Calientes, where you’ll enjoy dinner and rest for the night.
The next day, you’ll rise early to ascend to Machu Picchu for a guided tour, then have free time to explore on your own.
Afterward, you’ll trek back to the Hydroelectric station and transfer to Cusco, arriving around 9:30 p.m.
Day 1 Schedule
Starting as early as 5:50 a.m., travelers on the Machu Picchu budget tour depart Cusco for their first day’s adventure.
Their journey begins with a breakfast stop in Ollantaytambo, a scenic town nestled in the Andes. Next, they’ll ascend to the stunning Abra Málaga viewpoint, reaching an altitude of 4,300 meters.
From there, they’ll transfer to the Hydroelectric station and embark on a 3-hour trek to the charming town of Aguas Calientes, where they’ll enjoy dinner and rest for the night.
This efficient itinerary optimizes the budget by minimizing transportation costs while maximizing the opportunity to experience the stunning Andean landscapes.
Day 2 Schedule
Early the next morning, travelers begin their ascent to Machu Picchu, the iconic Inca citadel. They’ll take an early ride up to the ruins and enjoy a guided tour, exploring the different circuits. Afterward, they’ll have free time to wander and take in the stunning views at their own pace. Then, it’s time to head back, trekking to the Hydroelectric station and transferring to Cusco, arriving around 9:30 p.m.
| Circuit | Duration | Key Attractions |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 3 hours | Upper/lower parts, platform, terrace area |
| 2 | 4 hours | Inti Punku, Puente del Inca |
| 3 | 1.5 hours | Lower part, agricultural area, Temple of the Sun |
| 4 | 2.5 hours | Lower part, Sacred Rock, reflecting pools |
Machu Picchu Circuit Options
Typically, Machu Picchu offers four distinct circuit options, each catering to varying interests and fitness levels.
Circuit 1 covers the upper and lower parts, platform, and terrace area in 3 hours.
Circuit 2 explores the routes to Inti Punku and Puente del Inca, taking 4 hours.
The 1.5-hour Circuit 3 focuses on the lower part, agricultural area, and Temple of the Sun.
For a 2.5-hour tour, Circuit 4 takes visitors through the lower part, including the Sacred Rock and reflecting pools.
The tour operator recommends Circuit 2 for travelers seeking more attractions and better photo opportunities within the budget-friendly time frame.
Tour Inclusions
The Machu Picchu budget tour includes a range of amenities to provide a comfortable and convenient experience. The package covers round-trip transportation between Cusco and the Hydroelectric station, with drop-off in central Cusco upon return.
Meals are provided, including breakfast on Day 2, lunch on Day 1, and dinner on Day 1. Accommodation is included, with a stay at the Yanantin Collection hostel or a similar property in Aguas Calientes. Plus, the tour includes a guided visit to Machu Picchu.
However, the tour excludes beverages, travel insurance, medical coverage, and tips, which are optional. Travelers should ensure they’re physically prepared and have the necessary clothing and entry requirements for Peru.
Tour Exclusions
Several items are excluded from the Machu Picchu budget tour.
While the tour covers the essentials, there are a few additional expenses travelers should be aware of:
- Other stops not mentioned in the itinerary, like any side trips or diversions along the way.
- Meals not specified, such as lunch on the second day and any snacks or beverages throughout the journey.
- Incidentals like travel insurance, medical coverage, and tips for the guide and driver, which are optional but recommended.
Keeping these exclusions in mind will help budget-conscious travelers plan accordingly and avoid unexpected costs during their Machu Picchu adventure.
Preparation and Customer Reviews
Ensuring proper preparation is key to a successful Machu Picchu budget tour. Travelers should be in good physical condition to handle the hiking activities. They should also pack appropriate clothing and gear to handle the varying weather conditions. Plus, it’s important to research and fulfill any entry requirements to Peru, such as obtaining the necessary visa.
| Preparation Aspect | Recommended Actions |
|---|---|
| Physical Fitness | Prepare for hiking and be in good condition |
| Clothing & Gear | Pack layers, rain protection, comfortable shoes |
| Travel Documents | Ensure valid passport and any required visas |
| Weather Conditions | Research and prepare for variable mountain climate |
With the right preparation, travelers can fully enjoy the 2-day budget tour to Machu Picchu and create lasting memories. Customer reviews indicate an overall satisfactory experience with the transportation, value, and guided tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Upgrade to a Private Tour Instead of a Shared One?
Yes, you can upgrade to a private tour. This will provide a more personalized experience, but it’ll cost more than the shared tour. The private tour option is available if you want a more exclusive and customized Machu Picchu visit.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Limitations for This Tour?
The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions, but it’s recommended for travelers in good physical condition due to the hiking involved. Children under 12 receive a 10% discount on the tour price.
What Types of Dietary Requirements Can Be Accommodated?
The tour can accommodate various dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Guests should notify the tour provider of any special dietary needs when booking to ensure appropriate meals are provided during the tour.
Is It Possible to Visit Other Sites in Addition to Machu Picchu?
Yes, travelers can visit other sites in addition to Machu Picchu on this tour. The itinerary includes a scenic drive to Abra Málaga and a trek to Aguas Calientes, allowing for more exploration beyond just the main archaeological site.
How Do I Obtain the Necessary Permits and Tickets for This Tour?
The tour includes the Machu Picchu entrance ticket. Travelers need to book the tour in advance to secure their spot and permits. They’ll be picked up from their hotel and transportation is provided throughout the 2-day itinerary.
From Cusco: Machu Picchu 2-day Budget Tour by Van
“This was really good value for money- transport from my hostel, breakfast, lunch and dinner included, I had a double room in a nice hotel and a gui…”
Recap
The Cusco: Machu Picchu 2-day Budget Tour by Van offers an affordable and comprehensive way to experience the iconic Machu Picchu. With round-trip transportation, meals, and accommodation included, travelers can enjoy a seamless journey to this ancient wonder while staying within their budget. The flexible circuit options and focus on value make this tour an excellent choice for adventure-seekers looking to explore Machu Picchu on a tight schedule.
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