Machu Picchu Expedition 1 Day | Adventure + Lunch

Explore the captivating ruins of Machu Picchu on a guided expedition that promises an unforgettable adventure. This full-day tour offers an immersive cultural experience, blending scenic train rides, a 2.5-hour guided tour, and a delectable lunch in the charming town of Aguas Calientes. With a maximum of 10 participants, you’ll enjoy an intimate journey that delves into the remarkable history and architecture of the Inca civilization. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a curious traveler, this expedition is sure to leave you enamored with the majesty of one of the world’s most iconic archaeological wonders.

This experience made our list of the 12 Best Lunch Experiences In Aguas Calientes.

Contents hide

1 Tour Overview and Pricing

2 Experience Highlights

3 Itinerary

4 Inclusions and Exclusions

5 Preparation and Important Information

6 Scenic Journey

7 Inca Culture and Archaeology

8 Lunch at Reserved Restaurant

9 Frequently Asked Questions

Key Points

Fully guided 1-day tour of Machu Picchu, including hotel pick-up, transportation, entrance fee, and a 2.5-hour exploration of the iconic Inca citadel.
Small-group tour limited to 10 participants, providing an intimate setting for immersive cultural and historical insights.
Scenic train journey through the Andes and Urubamba River, followed by a bus ride to the Machu Picchu entrance.
Includes a reserved lunch at a local restaurant in Aguas Calientes, featuring traditional Peruvian cuisine.
Flexible cancellation policy with a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance, ensuring peace of mind for last-minute changes.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Machu Picchu Expedition 1 Day tour typically costs $385.00 per person and lasts for a full day.

This small-group tour, limited to 10 participants, offers guided exploration of the extraordinary Inca ruins, with tours conducted in English and Spanish.

Cancelations can be made up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and travelers can reserve their spot with no upfront payment.

The tour includes hotel pick-up, transportation to Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes, the entrance fee to Machu Picchu, and a guided tour of the site.

Lunch at a reserved restaurant in Aguas Calientes is also provided.

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Experience Highlights

Explore Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the seven wonders of the world, on this guided tour. Discover the extraordinary Inca ruins with a knowledgeable guide for 2-3 hours, and learn about the rich cultural and archaeological significance of this ancient citadel. The journey also includes scenic transportation, with hotel pick-up, train rides, and bus transfers to the site.

Tour Highlights	Details
Guided Tour	2-3 hours exploring Machu Picchu
Inca Culture	Learn about the history and significance
Scenic Journey	Hotel pick-up, train, and bus transportation
Small Group	Limited to 10 participants
Language Options	English and Spanish

Itinerary

Your day begins with a hotel pick-up between 4:00 and 5:00 a.m. in Cusco.

You’ll then transfer to Ollantaytambo Station and take the train to Aguas Calientes.

From there, you’ll ride the Consettur bus up to the Machu Picchu entrance.

Your 2.5-hour guided tour will let you explore the extraordinary Inca ruins and learn about the site’s rich history and cultural significance.

Afterward, you’ll return by bus to Aguas Calientes for a reserved lunch at a local restaurant.

The journey continues with the train back to Ollantaytambo and a bus ride to Cusco, completing your day of adventure at the iconic Machu Picchu.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This Machu Picchu expedition package includes several key services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

It covers hotel pick-up, transportation to Ollantaytambo, train tickets, Consettur bus rides, a professional guide, entrance to Machu Picchu, and a reserved lunch.

However, the package excludes any food or beverages not explicitly mentioned, travel insurance, and tips for service.

Clients should come prepared with their passport, a windbreaker, sunglasses, a camera, sunscreen, water, insect repellent, and cash.

Proper contact information with the country code is also essential for communication.

Last-minute reservations require verifying availability with the supplier via email.

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Preparation and Important Information

To ensure availability, it’s recommended to book the Machu Picchu Expedition 1 Day package at least 1 month in advance.

Travelers should bring the following essentials:

Passport for entry to Machu Picchu
Windbreaker and sunglasses to shield against the elements
Camera to capture the breathtaking views

Plus, it’s crucial to provide the correct contact information, including the country code, for effective communication.

For last-minute reservations, it’s advised to verify availability with the supplier via email.

Following these preparation guidelines will help ensure a seamless and memorable Machu Picchu adventure.

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Scenic Journey

How does the scenic journey unfold for this Machu Picchu expedition?

The adventure begins with an early hotel pickup in Cusco, around 4-5am. Guests are then transferred to the Ollantaytambo Station to board the train to Aguas Calientes.

This scenic train ride offers breathtaking views of the Andes Mountains and the Urubamba River. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, travelers hop on a Consettur bus that whisks them up to the entrance of the iconic Inca citadel.

The guided tour of Machu Picchu itself typically lasts 2.5 hours, allowing ample time to explore the extraordinary ruins and learn about their cultural significance.

After the tour, the return journey retraces these steps, providing a full day of immersive experiences.

Inca Culture and Archaeology

Machu Picchu stands as a testament to the innovative engineering and sophisticated understanding of the Inca civilization. The Inca people were renowned for their mastery of stonework, constructing the ruins without the use of mortar.

Visitors can observe:

Precisely fitted stone blocks that demonstrate the Inca’s advanced mathematical and architectural knowledge.
Intricate irrigation systems that channeled water through the site, showcasing their hydrological expertise.
Astronomical alignments within the structures, revealing the Inca’s profound understanding of the celestial world.

These remarkable feats provide a glimpse into the Inca’s remarkable achievements, offering visitors a deeper appreciation for this ancient and captivating culture.

Lunch at Reserved Restaurant

After the guided tour of Machu Picchu, visitors return by bus to Aguas Calientes for a reserved lunch at a local restaurant.

This included lunch provides a welcome break and chance to refuel after the morning’s exploration.

The restaurant offers a menu featuring traditional Peruvian cuisine, allowing guests to sample regional dishes and flavors.

Diners can enjoy a set menu or order à la carte, selecting from options like hearty stews, fresh seafood, and vegetarian plates.

The meal is served in a comfortable setting, providing an opportunity to reflect on the day’s experiences and prepare for the journey back to Cusco.

This lunch is an integral part of the comprehensive Machu Picchu expedition experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

The tour information does not mention a minimum age requirement. However, the small group size and strenuous nature of the activity may make it more suitable for older children and adults.

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

You can bring your own food and drinks to Machu Picchu, but the tour doesn’t include them. It’s recommended to pack a light lunch, snacks, and plenty of water to stay hydrated during the visit.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

The tour provider does not offer an option to extend the duration of the 1-day Machu Picchu tour. The tour has a fixed itinerary and schedule that cannot be customized or lengthened by participants.

Are There Any Specific Health Requirements for This Tour?

There are no specific health requirements for this tour. Participants should be in good physical condition, as the tour involves walking on uneven terrain for 2-3 hours. It’s recommended to bring water, snacks, and appropriate clothing.

Can I Purchase Additional Souvenirs or Merchandise at Machu Picchu?

Yes, visitors can purchase additional souvenirs and merchandise at Machu Picchu. The site has several shops and vendors offering a variety of traditional Peruvian handicrafts, textiles, and other items for visitors to bring home as mementos.

Recap

The Machu Picchu Expedition 1 Day offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the iconic Inca ruins in an intimate setting. From the scenic train ride to the guided tour and delectable lunch, this full-day adventure immerses visitors in the rich history and cultural significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its all-inclusive package and small group size, it’s an ideal choice for those seeking an unforgettable Machu Picchu experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: