From Cusco: 2-Day Machu Picchu Tour, Sunset or Sunrise

Exploring the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu is a bucket-list item for many travelers. The "From Cusco: 2-Day Machu Picchu Tour" promises an unforgettable experience, allowing visitors to witness the site’s grandeur at either sunrise or sunset. Beginning with a scenic journey from Cusco, the tour includes an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes and a guided exploration of the ruins on the second day. With options to hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, this tour caters to a range of adventure levels. For those seeking to enjoy the history and beauty of this wonder of the world, the details of this tour may prove irresistible.

Key Points

• This 2-day tour from Cusco includes roundtrip transport, train tickets, Machu Picchu entrance, and a guided tour of the archaeological site.
• Travelers can choose to visit Machu Picchu at sunrise or sunset, with an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes.
• Additional tickets are required for optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, which offer stunning views.
• Advance booking is recommended due to the tour’s popularity, with limited last-minute tickets available.
• The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, breakfast, and shuttle bus transportation to and from Machu Picchu.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

As part of the 2-day Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco, travelers can expect a price range from Kč7,678 per person.

The tour lasts for 2 days and has a non-refundable cancellation policy. Guides are available in English and Spanish for a small group of up to 10 participants.

On the first day, guests are picked up from their Cusco accommodation and travel to Ollantaytambo to board the train. They arrive at Aguas Calientes in the afternoon and have the option to visit the hot springs.

On the second day, they hike or take a bus to Machu Picchu for a 3-hour guided tour before returning to Cusco.

Itinerary Details

The 2-day Machu Picchu tour starts with pickup from Cuzco accommodations between 9:40 and 10:00 a.m. Travelers then travel to Ollantaytambo to board the train at 12:55 p.m., arriving in Aguas Calientes around 2:00 p.m. The evening is spent in Aguas Calientes, with an optional visit to the hot springs.

Day 1	Day 2
Pickup from Cuzco	Hike or bus to Machu Picchu
Travel to Ollantaytambo	3-hour guided tour
Train to Aguas Calientes	Free time for exploration
Overnight in Aguas Calientes	Return to Cusco

The second day begins with an early morning journey to Machu Picchu, followed by a 3-hour guided tour and free time for independent exploration.

Pre-Tour Coordination

One day prior to the tour, an informative meeting takes place in Cuzco for ticket distribution and itinerary details.

Last-minute bookings, made within 4 weeks, may require adjustments to the itinerary. To secure entry tickets, it’s recommended to book well in advance, at least 3 months prior.

This 2-day Machu Picchu tour from Cusco is popular, so early booking is advised to ensure availability.

Participants will receive all necessary information and materials during the pre-tour coordination meeting, allowing them to be fully prepared for the exciting journey ahead.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This 2-day Machu Picchu tour includes a variety of services to ensure a comprehensive and hassle-free experience. The package covers transportation, train tickets, Machu Picchu entrance, and a guided tour. Accommodation with breakfast in Aguas Calientes is also provided. However, optional activities like visiting the hot springs and accessing additional Inca sites require separate tickets.

Inclusions	Exclusions
Pickup and drop-off at hotel	Incidental expenses
Round-trip minivan and train tickets	Access to hot springs (optional)
Machu Picchu entrance ticket and 3-hour guided tour	–
Accommodation with breakfast in Aguas Calientes	–
Shuttle buses for ascent and descent	–

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Important Information

As a part of the Machu Picchu tour experience, travelers should bring essential items like their passport, ID card, camera, and comfortable clothing.

Certain items aren’t allowed on the tour, such as:

1. Drones
2. Plastic bags
3. Bikes
4. Alcohol and drugs

Booking well in advance is highly recommended, as last-minute tickets are limited and can be purchased at the Aguas Calientes ticket office.

Visitors should also be aware that additional areas like Huayna Picchu, Huchuy Picchu, and Machu Picchu Mountain require separate tickets, with only one area accessible per day due to time constraints.

Hiking Options

Two hiking options are available as part of the Machu Picchu tour: the Huayna Picchu hike and the Machu Picchu Mountain hike.

Huayna Picchu is a steep and challenging climb up the iconic mountain overlooking Machu Picchu. It grants stunning views but requires an additional ticket and permits are limited.

The Machu Picchu Mountain hike offers a less strenuous alternative, climbing to the top of the mountain for panoramic vistas of the site.

Both hikes must be booked in advance, as they’re subject to daily quotas. Visitors can only select one hike per day due to time constraints.

Photography Tips

Capturing the grandeur of Machu Picchu through photography is a rewarding experience for many visitors. To ensure you capture the best shots, consider these four tips:

1. Arrive early to beat the crowds and take advantage of the soft morning light.

2. Explore different vantage points, including the Inca Bridge and the Sun Gate, to capture unique perspectives.

3. Bring a variety of lenses, from wide-angle to telephoto, to accommodate various scenes and compositions.

4. Be mindful of the site’s rules, such as no tripods or selfie sticks, and respect the fragile nature of the ancient ruins.

With careful planning and creative eye, you can immortalize the breathtaking beauty of Machu Picchu in your photographs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Travelers often have questions about the logistics and planning of a Machu Picchu tour. What’s the best way to get there? Can I book last-minute? How long does the tour take?

The 2-day tour from Cusco includes roundtrip transportation, train tickets, and a guided tour of the ruins. While advance booking is recommended, some last-minute tickets may be available in Aguas Calientes.

The full itinerary spans two days, with an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes. Visitors can choose to hike or take the bus up to the site. Additional areas like Huayna Picchu require separate tickets.

With a small group size and live guide, this tour provides a comprehensive Machu Picchu experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

The tour does not specify a minimum age requirement. However, the itinerary may not be suitable for very young children due to the physical demands of hiking and the length of the tour.

Is the Tour Available on All Days of the Week?

The tour is available on all days of the week. The tour operator runs daily departures, allowing travelers flexibility in scheduling their Machu Picchu visit. Advance booking is recommended to secure availability, especially during peak seasons.

Can I Upgrade My Accommodation to a Higher Class?

Yes, you can upgrade your accommodation to a higher class, such as a deluxe or premium room, for an additional fee. The tour operator offers various room options to suit your preferences and budget.

Are Vegetarian/Vegan Meal Options Available?

Yes, vegetarian and vegan meal options are available during the 2-day Machu Picchu tour. Guests can inform the tour operator of their dietary requirements when booking, and special meals will be provided at the included accommodation in Aguas Calientes.

Can I Book This Tour for a Private Group?

Yes, this 2-day Machu Picchu tour can be booked for a private group. The tour operator offers customized packages for private groups, allowing for greater flexibility and a more personalized experience.

Recap

The "From Cusco: 2-Day Machu Picchu Tour" offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the majesty of Machu Picchu, whether at sunrise or sunset. With a scenic train ride, guided tour, and optional hikes, this tour promises breathtaking vistas and deep cultural insights. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, this immersive two-day journey is sure to create lasting memories.

You can check if your dates are available here: