Machu Picchu: Full-Day Tour From Cusco With Optional Lunch

Exploring the wonders of Machu Picchu is a bucket-list item for many travelers. This full-day tour from Cusco promises an immersive experience, combining the convenience of round-trip transportation with the expertise of professional guides. Visitors can anticipate a scenic train ride through the Andes, an in-depth tour of the historic ruins, and free time to soak in the atmosphere of Aguas Calientes. While the base price of $339 per person may seem steep, the tour’s inclusions and the opportunity to witness one of the world’s most captivating archaeological sites make it a compelling option for those seeking a comprehensive Machu Picchu adventure. However, the true value lies in the memories and insights that travelers can take away from this unforgettable journey.

Key Points

• The Machu Picchu full-day tour from Cusco is priced from $339 per person and covers a 15-hour duration with live guides in Spanish and English.
• The tour includes round-trip transportation, entry fees, and a 2.5-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu’s key highlights like the Main Plaza, Royal Residence, and Circular Towers.
• Travelers can enjoy a scenic train ride through the Andes Mountains, free time in Aguas Calientes, and an optional contemporary Peruvian lunch.
• The tour covers pickup, train, and bus transportation, with the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Booking the tour is a hassle-free process with a flexible system, "Reserve Now & Pay Later" option, and free cancellation policy.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Machu Picchu: Full-Day Tour from Cusco with Optional Lunch offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of the iconic Inca citadel.

Priced from $339.00 per person, the tour lasts 15 hours and provides live guides in Spanish and English. Guests can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a flexible booking option.

The tour includes round-trip transportation from Cusco to Machu Picchu, entry fees, and a 2.5-hour guided tour of the site’s key landmarks, such as the Main Plaza, Royal Residence, and Circular Towers.

Travelers have the option to purchase a contemporary Peruvian lunch in Aguas Calientes during their free time.

Travel Logistics

From Cusco’s historic center, the tour picks up guests and transports them to Ollantaytambo station.

There, travelers board a round-trip train to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. After arriving, they take a bus up to the iconic Inca citadel.

Following the guided tour, the group has free time in Aguas Calientes before taking the train back to Ollantaytambo and returning to Cusco.

All transportation, including the train and bus tickets, is included in the tour price, making it a seamless and convenient way to experience Machu Picchu.

Experience Highlights

This tour offers an immersive experience at the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. The scenic train ride through the Andes Mountains sets the stage for an unforgettable day.

A guided tour takes visitors through the site’s key highlights, including:

1. The Main Plaza, the central gathering place of the ancient city.
2. The Royal Residence, where the Inca emperor and his family lived.
3. The Temple of the Three Windows, an architectural masterpiece.
4. The Circular Towers, iconic structures that showcase Inca engineering prowess.

After the guided tour, guests can explore Aguas Calientes at their own pace, with the option to enjoy a contemporary Peruvian lunch.

Cultural and Historical Context

Machu Picchu, constructed by Inca emperor Pachacuti in the 1450s, served as a secluded retreat for the Inca elite.

This ancient citadel was abandoned after the Spanish conquest, and its existence was hidden for centuries as the jungle reclaimed the site.

Rediscovered in 1911, Machu Picchu is renowned for its remarkable Inca architecture, including the Main Plaza, Royal Residence, and the iconic Circular Towers.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the ruins offer a glimpse into the advanced engineering and sophisticated spiritual beliefs of the Inca civilization.

Machu Picchu’s cultural and historical significance continues to captivate visitors from around the world.

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Included in Tour

The Machu Picchu Full-Day Tour includes several key components to ensure a comprehensive experience.

The tour provides pickup and drop-off service, entrance to Machu Picchu, and a 2.5-hour guided tour led by professional guides in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.

It also offers access to Lima Tours’ office facilities in Aguas Calientes. Plus, travelers have the option to enjoy a contemporary Peruvian lunch at Café Inkaterra.

However, the tour excludes other visits or items not specified in the itinerary, tips, and ascent to Machu Picchu or Huayna Picchu mountain.

The key inclusions are:

1. Pickup and drop-off service
2. Entrance to Machu Picchu
3. 2.5-hour guided tour
4. Optional contemporary Peruvian lunch

Excluded From Tour

What does the Machu Picchu Full-Day Tour exclude?

The tour doesn’t include other visits or items not specified in the itinerary, such as tips.

Travelers will also need to cover the cost of ascending to Machu Picchu or Huayna Picchu mountain on their own. These iconic peaks offer stunning vistas but require additional fees and advance permits.

The tour provides a comprehensive Machu Picchu experience, but guests should budget for any supplementary activities they wish to enjoy during their free time in Aguas Calientes.

Flexibility and Cancellation

This Machu Picchu tour offers travelers a great deal of flexibility. For starters, you can cancel your booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Plus, there’s a "Reserve Now & Pay Later" option available, allowing you to secure your spot without paying upfront.

The tour also features:

1. Convenient pickup service from Cusco’s historic center to Ollantaytambo station.
2. Round-trip train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
3. Free time in Aguas Calientes for exploring or enjoying an optional Peruvian lunch.
4. Language options, with live guides available in Spanish and English.

This level of flexibility and convenience ensures a seamless and worry-free Machu Picchu experience.

Booking and Reservations

To book this Machu Picchu tour, travelers can conveniently reserve their spot using the "Reserve Now & Pay Later" option.

This flexible booking system allows them to secure their place on the tour without having to make full payment upfront. Travelers can then pay the balance closer to their travel date.

The tour also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind in case plans change.

With these user-friendly booking policies, it’s easy for visitors to plan their Machu Picchu experience.

Whether travelers are ready to pay right away or prefer to reserve their spot first, the tour makes the booking process hassle-free.

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, which runs from May to October. This period offers clear skies, moderate temperatures, and smaller crowds, providing the optimal conditions to fully experience the iconic Inca site.

How Fit Do I Need to Be to Visit Machu Picchu?

Visitors to Machu Picchu don’t need to be extremely fit, but should be able to handle moderate hiking and stairs. Those with mobility issues can take the bus to the ruins. Proper footwear and hydration are essential.

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

Visitors can bring their own food and drinks to Machu Picchu, but they’re not allowed to consume them inside the archaeological site. There are designated areas for picnicking within the complex.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Visiting Machu Picchu?

There are no strict age restrictions for visiting Machu Picchu. However, it’s recommended that children be at least 6 years old as the site involves walking on uneven terrain. Some activities may be unsuitable for very young kids.

Can I Take a Helicopter Tour of Machu Picchu?

No, helicopter tours of Machu Picchu are not available. The site is located in a remote, mountainous region and fly-overs are prohibited to preserve the integrity and tranquility of this iconic Inca citadel.

Recap

The Machu Picchu: Full-Day Tour from Cusco with Optional Lunch offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore one of the world’s most iconic ancient sites. With round-trip transportation, entry fees, and a guided tour, travelers can enjoy the rich cultural and historical significance of Machu Picchu. Whether opting for the included tour or adding a contemporary Peruvian lunch, this comprehensive experience promises an unforgettable journey through the stunning Andes.

You can check if your dates are available here: