Embarking on the FD Machu Picchu tour from Cusco is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the iconic Inca citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With limited daily access, this exclusive experience promises an immersive journey through the well-preserved ruins. From a scenic train ride along the Sacred Valley to a challenging climb up Machu Picchu Mountain, travelers can expect breathtaking views and an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or simply seeking an extraordinary experience, this tour offers a seamless and comprehensive way to discover the wonders of Machu Picchu.
Key Points
- This one-day tour from Cusco offers an exclusive experience at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Machu Picchu, including the climb to Machu Picchu Mountain.
- The tour includes hotel pick-up, transportation, a bilingual guide, lunch, and drinks, ensuring a seamless and memorable journey.
- The itinerary involves a scenic train ride along the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes, followed by exploration of the well-preserved Inca ruins at Machu Picchu.
- Participants have the option to add an extra hike to Huaynapicchu Mountain, subject to availability, for panoramic views of the entire site.
- With a daily capacity of 800 climbers, early booking is recommended to secure a spot on this highly sought-after Machu Picchu tour from Cusco.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview
- Highlights of the Tour
- Itinerary and Transportation
- Inclusion and Optional Fees
- Meeting Points and Pickup Details
- Reviews and Ratings
- Preparing for the Tour
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How Fit Do I Need to Be for the Machu Picchu Mountain Hike?
- Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Tour?
- Are There Toilets Available Along the Hiking Trail?
- Can I Store My Luggage During the Tour?
- Is There an Option to Visit Huayna Picchu Instead?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Cusco
- More Tours in Cusco
- More Tour Reviews in Cusco
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Cusco we have recnetly reviewed
Tour Overview
The Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco offers adventurous travelers a chance to explore the legendary lost citadel of the Incas.
This unforgettable experience allows visitors to climb Machu Picchu Mountain and witness the awe-inspiring panoramic views of the Urubamba River. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Machu Picchu is a true wonder of the world.
The tour is limited to 800 climbers per day, ensuring an intimate and exclusive experience. Guests will travel along the Sacred Valley road to Ollantaytambo, then take the EXPEDITION train to Aguas Calientes, enjoying scenic vistas throughout the journey.
The tour includes hotel pick-up, a professional bilingual guide, transportation, lunch, and drinks, providing a comprehensive and hassle-free excursion.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Cusco.
Highlights of the Tour
Climbing Machu Picchu Mountain offers visitors the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring panoramic views of the Urubamba River and the lost citadel of the Incas below.
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this tour promises an unforgettable experience.
Highlights include:
- Ascending the iconic Machu Picchu Mountain, which is limited to 800 climbers per day
- Exploring the well-preserved ruins of the Inca Empire’s sacred site
- Enjoying scenic train journeys along the Sacred Valley road
- Indulging in a delicious included lunch
- Experiencing the expertise of a professional bilingual tour guide
This tour provides a comprehensive and immersive way to discover the wonders of Machu Picchu.
Itinerary and Transportation
From early morning, travelers are picked up from their hotels in central Cusco or the meeting point at the Inca statue in Plaza Mayor del Cusco. The route then takes them along the Sacred Valley road to the Ollantaytambo train station, where they board the EXPEDITION train. During the approximately 2-hour journey, they can enjoy the scenic views as the train takes them to Aguas Calientes.
| Itinerary | Duration |
|---|---|
| Pick-up from Cusco | Early morning |
| Travel to Ollantaytambo train station | – |
| Train journey to Aguas Calientes | 2 hours |
The tour is designed to provide a seamless and efficient transportation experience, allowing travelers to focus on exploring the wonders of Machu Picchu and its surrounding landscapes.
Inclusion and Optional Fees
The tour package includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, a professional bilingual tour guide, transportation from Cusco to the train station, a provided lunch, and drinks.
Optional fees may include:
- Entrance fee to Huaynapicchu Mountain, subject to availability
- Additional meals or snacks not mentioned in the included items
- Gratuities for the tour guide and other service providers
- Personal items and expenses
- Travel insurance
The tour is designed to provide a comprehensive Machu Picchu experience, with the option to enhance the adventure by exploring the iconic Huaynapicchu Mountain, if desired.
Meeting Points and Pickup Details
Pickup for the tour is available from hotels in central Cusco or the meeting point at the Inca statue on Plaza Mayor del Cusco. The tour guide will ensure everyone is accounted for before departing for the day’s adventure. At the end of the tour, the group will return to the original meeting point.
| Pickup | Drop-off |
|---|---|
| Hotels in central Cusco | Plaza Mayor del Cusco |
| Inca statue, Plaza Mayor del Cusco | – |
The tour is designed for convenience, allowing participants to start and end their day at a central location in Cusco.
Reviews and Ratings
A total of 16 reviews have been left for this Machu Picchu tour, and an impressive 101% of travelers recommend it.
The ratings are overwhelmingly positive, with 14 reviews earning 5 stars and 2 reviews earning 4 stars. There are no reviews below 3 stars.
Standout feedback includes:
- "Everything was great, urial was a very good tour guide." – Paula_C, Dec 2023
The tour provides:
- Breathtaking views of Machu Picchu
- A knowledgeable and bilingual tour guide
- Convenient transportation and inclusions
This feedback demonstrates the tour’s ability to deliver an exceptional Machu Picchu experience for visitors.
Preparing for the Tour
Preparing for the tour begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel in central Cusco or the meeting point at the Inca statue in Plaza Mayor del Cusco.
From there, you’ll travel along the Sacred Valley road to Ollantaytambo train station, where you’ll board the EXPEDITION train for the scenic journey to Aguas Calientes.
The tour includes a professional bilingual guide, transportation, lunch, and drinks.
Depending on availability, you may have the option to add an entrance fee to Huaynapicchu Mountain.
With a limited capacity of 800 climbers per day, it’s important to plan ahead and secure your spot at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Frequently Asked Questions
Travelers often have questions about the logistics and details of the Machu Picchu tour from Cusco. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions:
-
What’s the capacity for climbing Machu Picchu Mountain? The daily capacity is limited to 800 climbers per day, so it’s essential to book your tickets well in advance.
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Can I visit Huaynapicchu Mountain as well? The Huaynapicchu Mountain hike is an optional add-on, subject to availability.
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How long is the train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes? The train journey takes approximately 2 hours, offering scenic views along the way.
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What’s included in the tour package? The tour includes hotel pick-up/drop-off, a professional bilingual guide, transportation, and lunch.
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What’s the dress code? Comfortable hiking attire and sturdy shoes are recommended for the Machu Picchu Mountain climb.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Fit Do I Need to Be for the Machu Picchu Mountain Hike?
The Machu Picchu Mountain hike requires a moderate level of fitness. Climbers should be able to handle steep, uneven terrain and high altitudes. However, the hike is challenging and not recommended for those with significant mobility issues or health concerns.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Tour?
Travelers can bring their own snacks and food on the Machu Picchu Mountain tour. The tour includes lunch, but bringing extra provisions is allowed and can be helpful for the hike up the mountain.
Are There Toilets Available Along the Hiking Trail?
Yes, there are toilet facilities available at various points along the Machu Picchu Mountain hiking trail. Hikers can use the restrooms during their climb to the summit for convenience and comfort.
Can I Store My Luggage During the Tour?
Yes, travelers can store their luggage during the tour. The tour operator provides luggage storage facilities at the starting point, allowing participants to leave their belongings while they explore Machu Picchu and climb the mountain.
Is There an Option to Visit Huayna Picchu Instead?
Yes, there is an optional opportunity to visit Huayna Picchu mountain instead of Machu Picchu Mountain. However, availability is limited and must be booked in advance as part of the tour package.
FD Machu Picchu: Tour & Machu Picchu Mountain From Cusco
Recap
The FD Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco offers an unforgettable journey to the iconic Inca citadel. With a limited daily capacity, participants can enjoy an exclusive experience exploring the well-preserved ruins. The tour includes a scenic train ride, a challenging climb up Machu Picchu Mountain, and a seamless adventure with hotel pick-up, bilingual guide, lunch, and drinks. This tour provides an opportunity to take in the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of Machu Picchu.
