Nestled high in the Andes, Machu Picchu is a captivating remnant of the Inca Empire. This iconic citadel offers visitors a glimpse into ancient civilizations, showcasing intricate stone terraces and significant landmarks like the House of the Guardians. For the adventurous, climbing Machu Picchu Mountain rewards with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. While the citadel itself is a must-see, the mountain hike provides an opportunity to immerse oneself further in the region’s natural beauty and historical significance. Discover why this UNESCO World Heritage site continues to captivate travelers from around the globe.
Key Points
- The Machu Picchu tour offers a guided exploration of the ancient Inca citadel, including visiting the House of the Guardians and ascending Machu Picchu Mountain.
- Machu Picchu Mountain, with an elevation of 3,082 meters, offers stunning panoramic views but requires a challenging 2-3 hour hike with an elevation gain of 300 meters.
- The tour package includes return transportation by train and bus, and an English-speaking guide for a 2.5-hour tour of Machu Picchu.
- Flexible pricing options, free cancellation, and a "reserve now, pay later" policy provide budget-friendly and hassle-free arrangements for the Machu Picchu tour.
- The scenic train journey to Machu Picchu features panoramic views of Andean landscapes through the glass ceiling, enhancing the overall cultural experience.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview
- Pricing and Cancellation
- Pickup and Departure
- Train Journey
- Scenic Experience
- Guided Tour of Machu Picchu
- Machu Picchu Mountain Climb
- Inclusions and Exclusions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Machu Picchu?
- Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Site?
- Are There Any Restrictions on Photography at Machu Picchu?
- How Fit Do I Need to Be for the Machu Picchu Mountain Climb?
- Can I Extend My Stay in Machu Picchu After the Tour?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Cusco
- More Tour Reviews in Cusco
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Tour Overview
What does the Machu Picchu tour entail? The tour price ranges from €526.15 per person, with a duration of 16 hours.
Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can reserve their spot without upfront payment.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, return transport by train, and a bus to the Machu Picchu site.
Visitors will have a guided exploration of the ancient city, including the House of the Guardians, and they can ascend Machu Picchu Mountain for stunning views of the citadel.
The tour’s inclusions don’t cover food and drinks.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Cusco.
Pricing and Cancellation
The Machu Picchu tour offers flexible pricing, starting from €526.15 per person.
The tour duration is 16 hours, and travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Plus, the tour operates on a reserve now and pay later basis, allowing visitors to secure their spot without upfront payment.
This convenient arrangement provides travelers with several key benefits:
- Flexible pricing to suit various budgets
- Hassle-free cancellation policy for last-minute changes
- Ability to reserve the tour without immediate financial commitment
Pickup and Departure
The Machu Picchu tour offers a convenient pickup service, with participants being collected from their hotels in Cusco or the Cathedral entrance in Plaza de Armas between 4 am and 4:30 am.
From there, the group boards the train at 5:40 am, departing from Ollantaytambo station or Poroy station if available. The train journey takes 1.5 hours from Ollantaytambo or 4 hours from Poroy.
After exploring Machu Picchu, the tour culminates with the return to Cusco, which is expected around 9 pm.
Train Journey
After being picked up from their hotels or the Cathedral entrance, travelers embark on the scenic train journey to Machu Picchu.
The train departs from either Ollantaytambo station at 5:40 am or Poroy station if available, with the journey lasting 1.5 hours from Ollantaytambo or 4 hours from Poroy.
During the ride, passengers can enjoy:
- Panoramic views of the Andean landscapes through the train’s glass ceiling.
- A comfortable and relaxing experience aboard the Expedition/Voyager train.
- The anticipation of reaching the iconic Machu Picchu archaeological site.
The train ride is an integral part of the Machu Picchu experience, setting the stage for the upcoming exploration of this ancient wonder.
More Great Tours NearbyScenic Experience
Aboard the Expedition/Voyager train, passengers can enjoy panoramic views of the Andean landscapes through the glass ceiling.
The scenic journey winds through the mountains, offering breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and traditional villages. From the comfort of the train, travelers can take in the stunning natural beauty that surrounds them.
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, a bus transfer whisks passengers up the mountainside to the iconic Machu Picchu archaeological site, providing a seamless transition from the train ride to the exploration of this ancient wonder.
Guided Tour of Machu Picchu
Once visitors arrive at the ancient citadel, an enthusiastic guide leads them on a captivating 2.5-hour tour of Machu Picchu.
The guide expertly brings the site to life, highlighting key landmarks such as:
- The House of the Guardians, where the Inca’s elite soldiers once resided.
- The sacred Sun Gate, a symbolic entry point to the citadel.
- The intricate stone terraces, which served as agricultural plots for the Inca civilization.
Through insightful commentary and thought-provoking anecdotes, the guide unveils the rich history, architectural marvels, and profound significance of Machu Picchu, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for this iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Machu Picchu Mountain Climb
For many visitors, the opportunity to ascend Machu Picchu Mountain is a highlight of their Machu Picchu experience. The climb offers stunning panoramic views of the ancient citadel and the surrounding Andean landscape. Reaching the summit, situated at an elevation of 3,082 meters (10,112 feet), requires a strenuous hike that takes approximately 2-3 hours.
| Difficulty Level | Duration | Elevation Gain |
|---|---|---|
| Challenging | 2-3 hours | 300 meters (984 feet) |
The climb is rewarded with breathtaking vistas that provide a unique perspective on the grandeur of Machu Picchu. Visitors should be prepared for the physical demands of the ascent and bring appropriate gear, such as sturdy hiking shoes, water, and snacks.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour package includes several key elements to ensure a seamless Machu Picchu experience.
The inclusions cover transportation, guide services, and site access:
- Return transport by Expedition/Voyager train from Ollantaytambo or Poroy station to Aguas Calientes.
- Return bus transfer from Aguas Calientes to the Machu Picchu archaeological site.
- An English-speaking guide to lead the 2.5-hour tour of the ancient city.
However, the package excludes food and drinks, which visitors will need to arrange for themselves during the day-long tour.
With these key inclusions and exclusions in mind, travelers can plan accordingly for their Machu Picchu adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Machu Picchu?
The best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season from May to October when the weather is mild and sunny, making it an ideal time for hiking and exploring the ancient citadel.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Site?
Food and drinks are not included in the tour, but visitors can bring their own. However, glass containers, alcohol, and food items that could attract wildlife are generally not permitted within the Machu Picchu archaeological site.
Are There Any Restrictions on Photography at Machu Picchu?
Photography is generally allowed at Machu Picchu, but there are some restrictions. Tripods, selfie sticks, and drones are prohibited. Visitors should be respectful and avoid interfering with other travelers’ experiences while taking photos.
How Fit Do I Need to Be for the Machu Picchu Mountain Climb?
For the Machu Picchu Mountain climb, visitors should be moderately fit, as the hike up to 300 meters in elevation can be challenging. However, the stunning views from the top make the effort worthwhile for most able-bodied travelers.
Can I Extend My Stay in Machu Picchu After the Tour?
Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Machu Picchu after the tour. However, they’ll need to make their own arrangements for accommodation, transportation, and entry tickets to the site beyond the tour’s scheduled itinerary.
Machu Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain
Recap
Machu Picchu offers a captivating glimpse into ancient Inca civilization. The challenging hike up Machu Picchu Mountain rewards adventurers with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, providing both historical insight and natural beauty. This tour is a must-do experience for visitors seeking to fully enjoy the majesty of this iconic Andes destination.
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