Cusco: Full-Day Guided Tour to Machu Picchu

Embark on an unforgettable journey to one of the world’s most iconic destinations – Machu Picchu. This full-day guided tour from Cusco immerses you in the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of the Inca Empire. With a scenic train ride, a comprehensive guided exploration of the ancient ruins, and free time for personal discovery, this 18-hour adventure promises an intimate and enlightening experience. Meals, transportation, and travel insurance are included, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free excursion. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, this tour offers something for all. But the true magic lies in the stories waiting to be uncovered…

This experience made our list of the 6 Best Guided Tours In Urubamba.

Key Points

• A full-day guided tour from Cusco to the iconic Machu Picchu ruins, including a scenic train ride, 2.5-hour guided tour, and free time for exploration.
• Comprehensive service package with hotel pickup/drop-off, transfers, entrance tickets, meals, and travel insurance, priced at $380 per person.
• Tour led by certified professional guides available in English and Spanish, with a maximum group size of 15 travelers for a personalized experience.
• Highlights include panoramic views during the train ride, insightful commentary on Inca history and architecture, and optional visits to the local museum or thermal baths.
• Important information, including suitability for children, physical fitness requirements, and a non-refundable cancellation policy, should be thoroughly reviewed before booking.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The guided tour to Machu Picchu is a full-day activity that takes participants on an 18-hour journey from Cusco.

Priced from $380 per person, the tour is led by certified professional guides and accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers.

Available in English and Spanish, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transfers, entrance tickets, meals, and travel insurance.

Highlights include the scenic train ride, a 2.5-hour guided tour of the ancient ruins, and free time for personal exploration and relaxation.

However, the tour isn’t recommended for children under 5 or travelers with certain health conditions, and a moderate level of physical fitness is required.

Itinerary

Early in the morning, guests are transferred from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, where they board a scenic train that takes them to Aguas Calientes.

From there, they board a bus up to the ruins of Machu Picchu. A 2.5-hour guided tour provides insight into the site’s Inca history and architecture.

Afterwards, guests have free time to explore the ruins and take photographs. In the afternoon, they can optionally visit the local museum or relax in the thermal baths.

Inclusions

This tour includes a comprehensive package of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

The inclusions cover all the essential elements for a hassle-free journey to Machu Picchu, such as:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off in central Cusco
• Transfers between Cusco, Ollantaytambo, and Aguas Calientes
• Round-trip bus transportation from Aguas Calientes to the Machu Picchu site
• Entrance ticket to the iconic Inca ruins
• Guidance from a certified professional guide
• Meals including breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Travel insurance for added peace of mind

The carefully curated inclusions aim to provide a well-rounded and memorable exploration of the ancient wonder of Machu Picchu.

Highlights

Visitors to Machu Picchu can expect a captivating experience exploring the ancient Inca ruins. The guided tour provides panoramic views during the scenic train ride, offering a glimpse of the stunning Peruvian landscape.

A professional guide shares insight into the history and architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage site, enhancing the understanding of Inca civilization. Travelers have the opportunity to personally explore and capture photographs of the iconic landmarks, such as the Temple of the Sun and the Intihuatana Stone.

For those seeking additional relaxation, the tour includes optional visits to the local museum or the nearby thermal baths, providing a well-rounded culture.

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Important Information

Travelers should keep in mind that this tour isn’t suitable for children under 5 years of age due to the physical demands of the itinerary.

Plus, it isn’t recommended for those with back or heart problems, as the terrain can be challenging. A moderate level of physical fitness is required to fully enjoy the experience.

Participants should check availability for starting times and group size, as there’s a maximum of 15 travelers per tour.

The tour has a non-refundable cancellation policy, so it’s important to plan accordingly.

Key considerations include:

• Suitability for young children
• Restrictions for medical conditions
• Physical fitness requirements
• Group size limitations
• Cancellation policy

Cancellation Policy

The cancellation policy for this tour is non-refundable. This means that once the tour is booked, any cancellations or changes made won’t be eligible for a refund.

This policy is in place to ensure the tour operator can properly plan and manage the logistics of the tour. Customers are advised to carefully consider their travel plans before booking, as no exceptions will be made to the cancellation policy.

It’s important to note that this policy applies to the entire tour package, including all transportation, entrance fees, and other inclusions. Customers should review the policy thoroughly before making their reservation.

Group Size

This guided tour to Machu Picchu has a maximum group size of 15 travelers. The compact group size ensures a more personalized experience and allows for better interaction with the guide.

Some key benefits of the small group format include:

• Enhanced engagement and opportunities to ask questions
• Easier navigation through the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu
• Ability to move quickly and efficiently as a cohesive unit
• More attentive service and individualized attention from the guide
• A sense of camaraderie and shared exploration with fellow travelers

The limited group size creates an intimate atmosphere, enabling each participant to fully enjoy the wonder of Machu Picchu without feeling lost in a large crowd.

Languages Offered

The guided tour to Machu Picchu offers tour services in both English and Spanish. This allows visitors from various language backgrounds to fully understand and appreciate the historical significance and cultural insights provided by the certified professional guide.

Whether you’re a native English or Spanish speaker, or someone who’s more comfortable in either language, the tour accommodates your needs, ensuring you get the most out of your Machu Picchu experience.

The multilingual approach ensures everyone can enjoy the ancient wonder, learning about the Inca Empire’s architectural marvels and their enduring legacy. This level of personalized service enhances the overall tour experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to Machu Picchu?

Yes, travelers can bring their own food and drinks to Machu Picchu. However, it’s important to follow the site’s rules and avoid littering or consuming alcohol. Bringing a packed lunch is a practical and cost-effective option for the visit.

What Should I Pack for the Tour?

For a Machu Picchu tour, travelers should pack comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, rain gear, snacks, water, and any necessary medication. Plus, bringing a camera to capture the stunning views is recommended.

Are There Any Medical Facilities Near Machu Picchu?

There are a few medical facilities located near Machu Picchu. The closest is a first aid post in Aguas Calientes, the town below the ruins. There’s also a small health clinic in Machu Picchu Pueblo, roughly 10 minutes from the site.

Can I Extend My Stay in Machu Picchu After the Tour?

After the tour, travelers can extend their stay in Machu Picchu by arranging additional transportation and accommodation independently. However, the tour package itself doesn’t include any extensions beyond the scheduled itinerary.

Is There a Weight Limit for the Train Ride?

The tour operator does not specify a weight limit for the train ride to Machu Picchu. Passengers should be able to board and disembark the train without assistance. Larger guests may require additional space.

Recap

This full-day guided tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the captivating history and breathtaking landscapes of the Inca Empire. With a comprehensive itinerary, inclusive amenities, and expert bilingual guides, this tour promises an intimate and enriching experience at one of the world’s most renowned archaeological sites.

You can check if your dates are available here: