Full Day Tour to Machu Picchu (Circuit 4 + Uchuy Picchu)

The full day tour to Machu Picchu offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites. This comprehensive journey not only takes visitors through the main ruins of Machu Picchu, but also includes a visit to the lesser-known Huchuy Picchu mountain, providing a unique perspective on the Inca citadel. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, travelers can expect to uncover the site’s rich history and hidden gems, all while taking in the breathtaking vistas that have captivated visitors for generations. Whether a seasoned adventurer or a first-time explorer, this tour promises an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Full-Day Tours In Aguas Calientes.

Key Points

• The full-day tour to Machu Picchu includes round-trip transportation, train tickets, and a guided exploration of the site, including the Temple of the Sun and Sacred Rock.
• The tour features a scenic train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, a 30-minute bus ride to the Machu Picchu entrance, and a 2-hour guided tour of key sites.
• The guided tour covers the Inca architectural wonders of Las Qolqas, the Agricultural Zone, and the Water Canal, as well as the unique perspectives from Huchuy Picchu mountain.
• Travelers have the option to visit nearby thermal baths and enjoy a buffet lunch in Aguas Calientes, with the return journey including a train ride from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
• The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and no upfront payment required for reservations, providing a flexible and convenient booking experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This full day tour to Machu Picchu offers visitors the chance to explore the iconic Inca citadel and its surrounding landscapes.

Priced from $458.00 per person, the tour includes round-trip transportation, train tickets, and a guided exploration of Machu Picchu and the Huchuy Picchu mountain.

Spanning 15 hours, the tour provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and allows customers to reserve their spot with no upfront payment.

Highlights include a scenic train ride, a bus journey to the ruins, and a comprehensive guided tour of Machu Picchu’s key sites, such as the Temple of the Sun and the Sacred Rock.

Itinerary and Transportation

The tour begins with a morning pickup from your hotel in Cusco at 04:00 hrs. After a 1 hour and 40 minute car trip, you’ll arrive at the Ollantaytambo train station to board the train departing at 06:10 hrs. Enjoy the scenic train ride with views of mountains, rivers, flora, and fauna as you make your way to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town). From there, you’ll take a 30-minute bus ride up to the entrance of the iconic Machu Picchu site.

Departure	Duration	Arrival
Cusco Hotel	1h 40m	Ollantaytambo Train Station
06:10	–	Aguas Calientes
Aguas Calientes	30m	Machu Picchu

Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

With the necessary entrance tickets and IDs in hand, the tour group gains access to the iconic Machu Picchu site. A knowledgeable guide leads the way, sharing insights and historical context as they explore the various structures and landmarks.

The group visits key sites like the Las Qolqas, Agricultural Zone, Water Canal, Temple of the Sun, Inka House, and Water Fountains, learning about the Inca’s impressive engineering and architectural feats.

Venturing up the Huchuy Picchu mountain, the group is rewarded with unique perspectives and a deeper understanding of the Inca’s ingenuity.

Throughout the guided excursion, which lasts approximately 2 hours, the group is immersed in the rich cultural heritage and mystique of this ancient citadel.

Return Journey and Optional Activities

After the guided tour of Machu Picchu, the group returns by bus to the town of Aguas Calientes. Here, they’ve the option to enjoy a buffet lunch at an additional cost.

Afterwards, visitors can choose to visit the nearby thermal baths, which offer a relaxing soak after a long day of exploration.

The return journey continues with a train ride from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, followed by transportation back to Cusco.

Guests have the flexibility to customize their experience by adding optional activities, such as climbing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, which provide unique perspectives of the iconic Inca citadel.

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Inclusions and Optional Add-Ons

This tour includes transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo and back, round trip train tickets (Expedition or Voyager class), bus transport between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu, and entrance tickets to Machu Picchu (Circuit 4 + Huchuy Picchu).

A professional tour guide is also provided. Guests can opt to add a buffet lunch ($25.00), entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain ($70.00), and thermal baths entrance fee.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the ability to reserve now and pay later, this comprehensive Machu Picchu tour offers flexibility and convenience.

Tour Duration and Cancellation Policy

The full-day tour to Machu Picchu takes approximately 15 hours, with the journey beginning at 4:00 AM with pickup from the guest’s hotel in Cusco.

Travelers will enjoy a 1 hour and 40 minute car ride to Ollantaytambo train station, followed by a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes.

After a 30-minute bus ride, guests will explore the iconic Machu Picchu site with a 2-hour guided tour.

The return journey includes the option to visit thermal baths and have lunch in Aguas Calientes before the train and car ride back to Cusco.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and guests can reserve their spot with no upfront payment.

Train Ride and Scenic Views

The train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes offers travelers a scenic journey through the Andes mountains. The train departs at 6:10 am and takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Along the way, passengers can admire breathtaking views of the rugged terrain, flowing rivers, lush vegetation, and diverse wildlife. The train ride is a memorable experience, providing a comfortable and efficient mode of transportation to Machu Picchu.

Travelers can sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning natural landscapes as they make their way to the iconic Inca citadel. This picturesque train journey is an integral part of the full-day tour, setting the stage for the remarkable exploration of Machu Picchu.

Exploring Huchuy Picchu Mountain

After the scenic train journey, the tour continues with an exploration of the Huchuy Picchu mountain.

This unique vantage point provides unparalleled views of the iconic Machu Picchu site below. Visitors have the opportunity to delve deeper into the engineering prowess of the Incas, as the guide explains how they were able to construct this remarkable citadel.

Navigating the rugged terrain, guests can appreciate the sheer scale and complexity of the Inca achievements. The excursion to Huchuy Picchu offers a chance to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the site’s history and the strategies employed by the Inca builders to create this architectural masterpiece nestled in the Andes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, visitors can bring their own food and drinks to Machu Picchu. However, they should be mindful of not leaving any litter and disposing of waste properly to preserve the site’s natural beauty and cleanliness.

What Should I Pack for the Tour?

For the Machu Picchu tour, travelers should pack water, snacks, sun protection, proper hiking shoes, extra layers of clothing, and any necessary medications. It’s also a good idea to bring a portable charger and camera to capture the stunning scenery.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour has no age restrictions – it’s suitable for all ages. Children under 8 receive a discounted rate, and there are no special age requirements to participate in the guided tour of Machu Picchu and Huchuy Picchu.

Can I Take Photos and Videos During the Guided Tour?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photos and videos during the guided tour of Machu Picchu. However, guests should avoid using flash photography and respect any additional restrictions or guidelines provided by the tour guide or site authorities.

Is There an Option to Extend My Stay at Machu Picchu?

Yes, there’s an option to extend one’s stay at Machu Picchu. Visitors can choose to spend more time exploring the site after the guided tour, though additional fees may apply for extended access beyond the standard tour duration.

Recap

This full-day tour to Machu Picchu offers an unparalleled experience, combining the iconic Inca citadel with the lesser-known Huchuy Picchu. Travelers will be captivated by the breathtaking landscapes, guided exploration of Machu Picchu’s key sites, and the opportunity to hike the Huchuy Picchu mountain for panoramic vistas. With seamless transportation and a range of included activities, this comprehensive tour ensures a memorable journey through one of the world’s most remarkable archaeological wonders.

You can check if your dates are available here: