Exploring the iconic Machu Picchu from Cusco is a popular choice for travelers seeking an immersive Peruvian adventure. This comprehensive 14-hour excursion promises a seamless experience, transporting visitors from their hotel to the ancient Inca citadel. Along the way, they’ll embark on a scenic bus ride, a train journey, and a bus transfer, culminating in a guided tour of the captivating UNESCO World Heritage site. While the tour’s inclusions, such as meals and travel insurance, aim to provide a hassle-free experience, some customers have raised concerns about the quality of service. Nevertheless, the opportunity to uncover the mysteries of Machu Picchu remains a compelling draw for those seeking to connect with Peru’s rich cultural heritage.
Key Points
- This 14-hour excursion from Cusco includes hotel pickup, transportation, meals, and travel insurance to visit the iconic Machu Picchu.
- The tour offers guided exploration of Machu Picchu for 2.5 hours, followed by free time for independent exploration.
- Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu are included, with advance booking required for specific circuit options.
- The tour is available in both Spanish and English, and allows for cancellation up to 24 hours for a full refund.
- Customers have reported mixed reviews regarding the tour guide quality and value for money, indicating the need to consider feedback before booking.
Tour Overview
What does this excursion to Machu Picchu from Cusco entail? The tour is priced from €323.62 per person and lasts 14 hours.
It’s offered in Spanish and English. Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the tour allows booking flexibility with pay-later options.
The journey starts in Cusco, involving a bus/coach to Ollantaytambo, a train to Aguas Calientes, and a bus/coach to Machu Picchu.
After a 2.5-hour guided tour, guests have free time to explore the site on their own.
Inclusions cover hotel pickup, transportation, entrance tickets, a local guide, meals, and travel insurance.
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Tour Itinerary
The tour begins with a 2-hour bus or coach journey from Cusco to the town of Ollantaytambo.
From there, travelers will board a 2-hour train to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu.
A 30-minute bus ride then takes them up to the entrance of the iconic Inca citadel.
A 2.5-hour guided tour provides an in-depth exploration of Machu Picchu’s history and architectural wonders.
After the guided tour, visitors can:
- Wander the ruins at their own pace
- Climb the Inca Trail to the Sun Gate
- Hike up Huayna Picchu for stunning views
- Explore the Inca Bridge and other off-the-beaten-path sites
Tour Inclusions
This excursion to Machu Picchu includes a range of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. The tour package includes hotel pickup in Cusco, transportation to Ollantaytambo train station, round-trip train tickets to Aguas Calientes, entrance tickets to Machu Picchu, and a local guide to provide a 2.5-hour guided tour. Plus, travelers will receive entry tickets to Circuit 2 (2 months in advance) and Circuit 1 or 3 (1 month in advance), as well as transfer back to Cusco from Ollantaytambo. Meals, including breakfast and lunch, and travel insurance are also included in the package.
Inclusions |
---|
Hotel pickup in Cusco |
Transportation to Ollantaytambo train station |
Round trip train ticket to Aguas Calientes |
Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu |
Local guide |
Entry ticket to Circuit 2 and Circuit 1 or 3 |
Transfer back to Cusco from Ollantaytambo |
Meals: Breakfast, lunch |
Travel insurance |
Pickup and Transportation
The tour begins with hotel pickup from your accommodation in Cusco.
From there, you’ll board a bus or coach for the 2-hour journey to Ollantaytambo train station.
The next leg of the trip involves a 2-hour train ride to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu.
Finally, a 30-minute bus or coach ride will take you directly to the entrance of the iconic Inca citadel.
The return journey follows the same route in reverse, ensuring a seamless and efficient transportation experience throughout the day.
- Bus/coach from Cusco to Ollantaytambo (2 hours)
- Train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (2 hours)
- Bus/coach from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (30 minutes)
- Return journey via the same transportation modes
Entrance Tickets
As part of the tour package, your entrance tickets to Machu Picchu are included. This ensures you have hassle-free access to the iconic Inca citadel.
The tour provides entry tickets to two different circuits – Circuit 2, which must be booked at least 2 months in advance, and either Circuit 1 or 3, which need to be reserved at least 1 month prior. This allows you to explore the most popular sections of the site with your local guide.
Plus, the tour includes a bus transfer from Aguas Calientes to the Machu Picchu entrance, making the logistics seamless.
With these essential tickets and transportation covered, you can focus on enjoying the wonder of Machu Picchu.
Prohibited Items
Visitors’ possession of drones is strictly prohibited during the Excursion to Machu Picchu from Cusco.
This rule aims to preserve the tranquility and natural beauty of the ancient Inca citadel.
The following items are also not allowed:
- Tripods or selfie sticks
- Alcoholic beverages
- Recreational drugs
- Large backpacks or luggage
Travelers are advised to pack light and bring only essential items.
Any prohibited items will be confiscated by the authorities at the entrance to Machu Picchu.
Adhering to these rules ensures a seamless and respectful experience for all visitors to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Document Requirements
Typically, travelers must present a valid passport or ID card to participate in the Excursion to Machu Picchu from Cusco. This requirement ensures compliance with Peruvian immigration laws and facilitates seamless entry to the historic site. After booking, travelers must submit a photo of their passport or ID card to the tour provider. This pre-trip documentation helps streamline the check-in process and avoid any delays or issues during the tour.
Document Requirement | Details |
---|---|
Passport | Valid for at least 6 months beyond the tour date |
ID Card | Government-issued photo ID |
Submission | Photo sent to tour provider after booking |
Purpose | Immigration compliance and check-in facilitation |
Deadline | Prior to tour departure |
Customer Feedback
Travelers have shared mixed reviews about their experiences on the Excursion to Machu Picchu from Cusco.
The tour has an overall rating of 3.7 out of 5 based on 3 reviews. While some customers were satisfied with the tour, others reported issues:
- Dissatisfaction with the availability and quality of the tour guide
- Concerns about the service provided during the tour
- Complaints about the organization and logistics of the excursion
- Disappointment with the value for money compared to the overall experience
Despite these negatives, the tour still attracts many visitors seeking to explore the iconic Machu Picchu site.
Prospective travelers should carefully consider the feedback before booking to set their expectations accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Machu Picchu?
The best time to visit Machu Picchu is typically during the dry season from April to October. This period offers clearer skies, milder temperatures, and fewer crowds, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the ancient Inca citadel’s grandeur.
Can I Purchase Additional Snacks or Drinks During the Tour?
Yes, visitors can purchase additional snacks and drinks during the tour. Stops are made at various points, including Aguas Calientes, where there are shops and restaurants offering a variety of food and beverage options.
Is There a Storage Facility for Luggage at Machu Picchu?
Yes, there are luggage storage facilities at Machu Picchu where visitors can leave their belongings during the tour. These facilities are secure and convenient, allowing travelers to explore the site without the burden of carrying extra items.
Can I Extend My Stay in Aguas Calientes After the Tour?
Travelers can extend their stay in Aguas Calientes after the tour. They’ll need to arrange their own accommodation and transportation back to Cusco separately from the tour package. Extending one’s stay provides more time to explore the area at one’s own pace.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Special Considerations for Children?
The tour has no strict age restrictions, but it’s important to consider the physical demands on children. Parents should assess their child’s abilities and ensure proper preparation to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience at Machu Picchu.
Recap
The "From Cusco: Excursion to Machu Picchu With Entrance Tickets" offers a comprehensive 14-hour adventure, providing hotel pickup, transportation, entrance tickets, and a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu site. While customer feedback highlights some concerns about service quality, the tour’s convenience and inclusion of essential elements make it a viable option for those seeking a hassle-free Machu Picchu experience.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Tickets in Aguas Calientes
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