Machu Picchu Day Trip

Machu Picchu, the iconic Inca citadel, is a bucket-list destination for many travelers. The Machu Picchu Day Trip offers an exceptional opportunity to explore this wonder of the world in a single day. Visitors can expect a seamless experience, with convenient hotel pickup, a scenic train journey, and a guided tour that brings the ancient ruins to life. While the day may seem packed, the itinerary is designed to provide ample free time to savor local cuisine or indulge in the region’s natural thermal baths. For those seeking an immersive yet efficient Machu Picchu experience, this day trip could be the perfect solution. But the real question is, what hidden gems might be uncovered during this remarkable journey?

Contents hide

1 Trip Overview

2 Experience Highlights

3 Itinerary Details

4 Pickup and Stations

5 Travel Times

6 Activities and Free Time

7 Inclusions

8 Reservation and Cancellation

9 Frequently Asked Questions

Key Points

A guided exploration of the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Includes a scenic train journey through rural Peru and a guided tour of Machu Picchu’s history for 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Flexible cancellation policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, round-trip train tickets, and bus transportation to the Machu Picchu site.
Opportunity to explore the local markets, riverside areas, and natural thermal baths in Aguas Calientes during free time.

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Trip Overview

The Machu Picchu Day Trip offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Priced from $499 per person, this 14-hour tour provides a guided exploration of the iconic Inca citadel.

Available in English and Spanish, the trip features a scenic train journey through rural Peru, as well as free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can reserve their spot with no upfront payment, and enjoy a 2-hour 30-minute guided tour of Machu Picchu’s history and secrets.

The convenient hotel pickup and drop-off service, panoramic train tickets, and entrance fees are all included, making this an efficient and comprehensive way to experience this wonder of the ancient world.

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Experience Highlights

Exploring the wonders of Machu Picchu, one of the 7 New Seven Wonders of the World, is a must-see for visitors to Peru.

This day trip offers a guided tour to uncover the history and secrets of the legendary Inca citadel, lasting 2 hours and 30 minutes.

The journey there’s as impressive as the destination, with a scenic 3.5-hour train ride through rural Peru in panoramic trains with glass roofs.

Once at Machu Picchu, visitors can take in the breathtaking vistas and enjoy the fascinating heritage of this ancient wonder.

Itinerary Details

The Machu Picchu Day Trip begins with pickup from hotels in Cusco’s historic center or an alternative pickup at the Cathedral’s Plaza de Armas, scheduled between 4 am and 6 am.

Depending on the season, the departure station may be Poroy (30 minutes from Cusco) or Ollantaytambo (1 hour 30 minutes from Cusco), with the latter being closed during the rainy season from December to March.

The train journey to Aguas Calientes takes around 4 hours from Poroy or 1 hour 30 minutes from Ollantaytambo.

Pickup and Stations

Cusco’s historic center hotels provide the pickup for this Machu Picchu Day Trip, with an alternative option at the Cathedral’s Plaza de Armas.

The tour departs either from Poroy station, about 30 minutes from Cusco, or Ollantaytambo station, 1 hour 30 minutes away. Poroy may be closed during the rainy season from December to March.

The journey from Poroy to Aguas Calientes takes around 4 hours, while the trip from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes is 1 hour 30 minutes.

From Aguas Calientes, it’s a 25 to 30-minute bus ride to reach the entrance of the Machu Picchu archaeological site.

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Travel Times

After making the journey from either Poroy or Ollantaytambo station, travelers can expect the train ride to Aguas Calientes to take around 4 hours from Poroy and 1 hour 30 minutes from Ollantaytambo.

The travel times to Machu Picchu vary depending on the starting point:

Poroy to Aguas Calientes: Approximately 4 hours
Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes: Around 1 hour 30 minutes
Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu: 25 to 30 minutes by bus

The train may be closed during the rainy season (December to March) when Poroy station isn’t operational.

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Activities and Free Time

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, travelers will have 2 to 5 hours of free time to explore the town and have lunch, depending on the Machu Picchu operating hours and their return train schedule. During this time, visitors can:

Activity	Description
Explore Aguas Calientes	Stroll through the charming town, visit local markets, and enjoy the riverside setting.
Dine on Peruvian Cuisine	Savor traditional dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado, and quinoa dishes.
Visit the Machu Picchu Museum	Learn more about the history and significance of the Inca citadel.
Relax at the Hot Springs	Unwind in the natural thermal baths that give Aguas Calientes its name.

This free time allows travelers to enjoy the local culture and prepare for their visit to the iconic Machu Picchu.

Inclusions

The Machu Picchu Day Trip includes a range of essential services and amenities to ensure a seamless and memorable experience.

The package includes:

Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off for hotels in Cusco’s historic center.
Round-trip train tickets on either the panoramic Vistadome/The 360° or the Expedition/Voyager trains.
Bus transportation from Aguas Calientes to the Machu Picchu archaeological site.
An expert English-speaking guide to lead the 2.5-hour tour of the Inca citadel and share its fascinating history.

Plus, the entry ticket to Machu Picchu is provided, allowing you to fully learn about the wonder of this ancient wonder.

These inclusions cater to the needs of travelers, ensuring a seamless and enriching Machu Picchu experience.

Reservation and Cancellation

Travelers can easily reserve their spot on the Machu Picchu Day Trip with the convenient "Reserve now & pay later" option. This allows them to book their tour without making any upfront payment, ensuring their place is secured.

The Machu Picchu Day Trip also offers a flexible cancellation policy, providing free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This gives travelers peace of mind and the freedom to adjust their plans if needed.

With these hassle-free booking and cancellation terms, guests can confidently plan their Machu Picchu adventure and focus on anticipating the incredible experience that awaits them.

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, they should be mindful of any restrictions or guidelines set by the site authorities regarding permitted items.

Are There Restrooms or Dining Options at the Archaeological Site?

There are limited restroom facilities at the Machu Picchu archaeological site. Visitors can purchase snacks and meals from food vendors within the site, though they’re also allowed to bring their own packed lunches and drinks.

Is There a Dress Code or Recommended Attire for Visiting Machu Picchu?

There’s no strict dress code, but comfortable, lightweight clothing and sturdy walking shoes are recommended. Layers are advised as the weather can change quickly at high altitudes. Avoid wearing sandals or open-toe shoes.

Can I Take My Pet With Me on the Trip?

No, pets are not allowed on the Machu Picchu tour. The site has strict regulations prohibiting animals, as it’s a protected archaeological heritage site. Visitors can only bring service animals with the proper documentation.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Special Requirements for Children?

Children are welcome on the Machu Picchu day trip, but there may be age-based restrictions or requirements. Families should check with the tour operator for specific details on bringing kids and any special arrangements needed.

Recap

The Machu Picchu Day Trip offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore one of the world’s most iconic ancient sites. With a comprehensive itinerary, scenic transportation, and ample free time, this adventure provides a seamless and unforgettable experience for anyone seeking to witness the grandeur of Machu Picchu. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or simply seeking an extraordinary adventure, this day trip is an ideal choice.

You can check if your dates are available here: