Embarking on a Machu Picchu adventure couldn’t be easier with the 1-Day Tour from Cusco. Travelers are whisked away at the crack of dawn, transported to the train station to board the iconic Voyager or Expedition trains. After a scenic journey, they’ll have the opportunity to explore the UNESCO World Heritage site with a knowledgeable guide, uncovering the Intihuatana and Temple of the Sun. But the day’s highlights don’t end there – a delectable Peruvian lunch awaits, energizing visitors for the return trip. With an action-packed itinerary and seamless transportation, this tour promises an unforgettable Machu Picchu experience. What secrets might the ancient citadel unveil for those bold enough to discover them?
Key Points
- This one-day Machu Picchu tour departs from Cusco around 4:00 am and returns to Cusco around 8:30 pm.
- The tour includes transportation, train tickets, bus to Machu Picchu, a 2.5-hour guided tour, and a provided lunch in Aguas Calientes.
- Travelers can choose between the Voyager or Expedition train options to reach Aguas Calientes, the town nearest to Machu Picchu.
- Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, and an option to reserve now and pay later is offered.
- The tour covers key Machu Picchu highlights, including the Intihuatana, Sungate, Temple of the Sun, Terraced Gardens, and Inca Bridge.
Tour Overview
The Machu Picchu Tour 1 Day is an immersive experience that offers travelers the opportunity to discover one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Priced from $377.00 per person, this day tour lasts approximately 16 hours, with the journey beginning as early as 4:00 am. The tour is offered in both Spanish and English, ensuring a seamless experience for all guests.
Travelers can enjoy the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, as well as the option to reserve now and pay later.
This tour’s comprehensive itinerary and inclusions make it an excellent choice for those seeking to explore the iconic Machu Picchu.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Aguas Calientes.
Itinerary Details
What time does the tour begin?
The tour starts with an approximate 4:00 am pickup at the agreed meeting place in Cusco. Guests then travel to the train station, either Ollantaytambo or Poroy, depending on availability.
They board a tourist train that takes them to Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival, they transfer to a bus that takes them to the Machu Picchu entrance gate.
A professional guide then leads them on a 2.5-hour guided tour of the iconic Inca citadel.
After the tour, guests enjoy lunch in Aguas Calientes and have free time before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo or Poroy and transferring to Cusco, with an approximate arrival time of 8:30 pm.
Transportation Arrangements
The tour’s transportation arrangements begin with a pickup from the agreed meeting place in Cusco, which is scheduled to occur around 4:00 am.
From there, travelers will be transported to the train station, either Ollantaytambo or Poroy, depending on availability.
Once at the station, they’ll board a tourist train that will take them to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu.
The transportation plan includes:
- Cusco meeting point to train station transfer
- Tourist train tickets from the station to Aguas Calientes
- Bus transportation from Aguas Calientes to the Machu Picchu entrance
- Return journey by train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (or Poroy) and transfer to Cusco
Machu Picchu Exploration
Upon arrival at Aguas Calientes, travelers will transfer to a bus that will take them up the winding road to the entrance of the iconic Machu Picchu site. There, a professional guide will lead them on an in-depth 2.5-hour tour, exploring the site’s impressive architecture, learning about its history, and marveling at the breathtaking natural surroundings. The guided tour will cover key areas, as outlined in the table below:
Area | Highlights |
---|---|
Intihuatana | Ceremonial stone structure |
Sungate | Offering panoramic views |
Temple of the Sun | Astronomical significance |
Terraced Gardens | Impressive agricultural feats |
Inca Bridge | Impressive engineering |
After the tour, visitors will have free time to further explore Machu Picchu or the town of Aguas Calientes before returning to Cusco.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyDining Experience
Where does the dining experience take place as part of this Machu Picchu tour?
As part of the itinerary, lunch is provided in Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu.
The lunch is a tourist menu, offering a selection of Peruvian cuisine.
Travelers can expect to enjoy:
- Traditional Peruvian dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado, or vegetarian options
- A hearty main course, often featuring local ingredients and flavors
- Sides such as rice, potatoes, or fresh salads
- Refreshing beverages to accompany the meal
- Dessert, allowing travelers to indulge in a sweet treat after their Machu Picchu exploration.
This included lunch provides an opportunity to fuel up and savor the local flavors before the return journey to Cusco.
Return Journey
After the guided tour of Machu Picchu, travelers will enjoy a lunch in Aguas Calientes.
They’ll then have free time to explore the charming town before boarding the train for the return journey.
The train will take them back to Ollantaytambo or Poroy, where they’ll be transferred to Cusco.
The approximate arrival time in Cusco is 8:30 pm.
The return journey includes transportation from the meeting point to the train stations, tourist train tickets, and bus transportation within Machu Picchu.
Travelers should note that the return journey doesn’t include food not mentioned, travel insurance, water and drinks, tips for service, or personal purchases.
Included Services
The Machu Picchu Tour includes a comprehensive array of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.
This tour provides:
- Transportation from the Cusco meeting point to the train stations and back
- Voyager or Expedition train tickets for the journey to and from Aguas Calientes
- Bus transportation within Machu Picchu for the ascent and descent
- A professional guide for the 2.5-hour tour of the Machu Picchu site
- Lunch at a tourist restaurant in Aguas Calientes
- Entrance ticket to the Classic Circuit of Machu Picchu
These inclusions cover the essential elements of the tour, allowing visitors to focus on exploring the wonder of Machu Picchu without the hassle of logistics.
Excluded Services
While the Machu Picchu Tour provides a comprehensive set of included services, there are a few exclusions to be aware of.
Any foods not mentioned in the inclusions, such as snacks or additional meals, will be at the traveler’s own expense. Travel insurance is also not included, so it’s recommended to secure your own coverage.
Plus, the cost of water, drinks, and tips for service personnel aren’t covered. Lastly, any entrance tickets to additional mountains like Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu, or Huchuy Picchu will need to be purchased separately.
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. This offers clearer skies, milder temperatures, and smaller crowds, providing an optimal experience to explore the ancient Inca citadel.
How Physically Demanding Is the Tour?
The Machu Picchu tour is moderately physically demanding, with a trek to the ruins and some steep stairs. Visitors should be in reasonable physical condition, but the guided tour provides ample time to rest and explore at a comfortable pace.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but the package includes lunch in Aguas Calientes. Any additional snacks or beverages outside of the provided meal would need to be purchased separately by the traveler.
Are There Any Age or Fitness Restrictions?
There are no age or fitness restrictions for the tour. It’s suitable for travelers of all ages and fitness levels, though some hiking and walking is required at Machu Picchu. The tour provider can accommodate participants with mobility needs.
Can I Extend My Stay in Aguas Calientes?
Travelers can extend their stay in Aguas Calientes if desired, though the tour itinerary only includes a brief free time period there before returning to Cusco. Any additional time and activities in Aguas Calientes would need to be arranged independently.
Recap
The Machu Picchu Tour 1 Day offers an unforgettable experience, exploring the iconic Inca ruins with a guided tour and discovering the rich Peruvian culture through a delectable lunch. With early morning pickup, train transportation, and a return journey to Cusco, this tour provides a comprehensive and convenient way for travelers to visit the world-renowned archaeological site of Machu Picchu.
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