Machu Picchu day Trip from Cusco
$295 USD
- Cusco - Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes - MACHU PICCHU - CUSCO
Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco
On our Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco By Train, you’ll enjoy a full day discovering the majestic Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu on a smooth, all-inclusive journey from Cusco. Travel comfortably by train through the Andes, then explore this world-famous archaeological wonder alongside a knowledgeable local guide who will bring its history, architecture, and ancient traditions to life.
This experience is designed with a relaxed, accessible pace, making it the perfect choice for first-time visitors, families, and solo travelers looking for a memorable and stress-free visit to one of the world’s greatest destinations.
Highly recommend
US$295
per person
- Transport: Archaeological Bus | Train
- Type: Archaeological
- Locally Owned & Operated: Your Team
Have questions?
Connect with us anytime via WhatsApp or through our website. Our team responds fast and is always ready to help you plan the perfect Machu Picchu experience.
MACHU PICCHU TOUR Overview
01
Cusco - Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes - MACHU PICCHU - CUSCO
04:00 – 04:30 hrs – Transfer from Cusco to the train station in Ollantaytambo.
06:10 hrs – Departure by train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu village).
08:00 hrs – Arrival in Aguas Calientes. Our staff will assist you to board the bus to the citadel of Machu Picchu.
10:00 hrs – Start of the tour in Machu Picchu (Route 1).
12:30 hrs – End of the tour in Machu Picchu.
13:00 hrs – Lunch at a good restaurant in Aguas Calientes (optional).
14:30 hrs – Train back to Ollantaytambo.
Extra hikes after the guided tour in Machu Picchu:
- Huayna Picchu Mountain – US$ 65 per person
You can climb Huayna Picchu Mountain for amazing views. The trip takes 2 hours round trip, and you need to book far in advance.
- Machu Picchu Mountain Hike – US$ 65 per person
This is the highest mountain in Machu Picchu. The hike is a round trip that takes three hours.
- Great Cavern – USD 45
- Sun Gate (Inti Punku) – USD 45
- Inca Bridge – USD 45
- Circuit 1+3 = Machu Picchu 90%
Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco Itinerary
01
Cusco - Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Cusco
Begging with this interesting day in early 4.00 in the morning, we pick up you from your accommodation in “Cusco” and drive to “Ollantaytambo”. At the “Ollantaytambo” train station, you’ll board to train to “Aguas Calientes”, which will take you through the stunning Andean Mountain landscape and inca jungle. Also you can take video of the of the snow peaks, mountains, green fields, and Inca agriculture sites.
Once you arrive in “Aguas Calientes”, you’ll board the bus that will take you to the entrance of the “Inca” city of “Machu Picchu”. Once you enter “Machu Picchu” our guide will start a 2-hour guided tour. You can study “Inca” history and culture, and our guide will take you to the to the most important areas. You can snap “Inca” ruins and “Machu Picchu’s” amazing photos.
After the amazing guide tour, you can trek to ‘Huayna Picchu” if you already booked your ticket in advance (not included in the tour) In the afternoon, you will return to “Aguas Calientes” City. At city “Aguas Calientes”, you can find a restaurant to have lunch, explore “Aguas Calientes” City, or shop around before heading to the train station.
In “Aguas Calientes”, you will board a train to “Ollantaytambo”, then travel to Cusco in our private transport from the “Ollantaytambo” train station. In the evening, we will drop you off at the door of your accommodation in “Cusco”.
Note: Your arrival time depends on your scheduled ticket.
Inclusions
Included
- Permits & Entrance Tickets
Entrance Ticket for Machu Picchu Archaeological site (Circuit 1,2 or 3) depending on ticket availability.
Note – If you want experience Circuit 2-A we recommended you to book months in advanced.
Experienced Guides
Certified bilingual (English and Spanish) tourism guides.
Peruvian government-licensed.
Graduates from recognized Peruvian colleges or tourist schools.
Provide informed and expert advice throughout the trip.
Medical Kit
Guides trained in first aid and CPR.
Carry a first aid kit for altitude sickness, traveler’s diarrhea, and scrapes.
Quick evacuation and transport to a clinic if necessary.
24/7 Customer Service
Contact available via WhatsApp, local phone, and email 24/7.
Guides can contact the company via satellite phone in emergencies.
Meals
Breakfast: Fruit juice, hot chocolate, coffee, tea, fruit salad, bread or pancakes with butter and jam.
Transportation
- Pick up from your hotel and transfer to ollantaytambo train station.
- Round trip Bus Tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Pichu gate
- Transport from Ollantaytambo train station to your hotel in cusco.
Train Tickets - From Ollantaytambo to Aguas calientes.
- From Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
Not Included
- Lunch and Dinner in Aguas Calientes.
- Travel insurance.
WHAT TO BRING TO MACHU PICCHU BY TRAIN
Essentials
Passport
Bag
Bottle Water
Money Cash in Soles
Clothing
Rain jacket or rain poncho
long-sleeve trekking shirts
short-sleeve shirts
Pants
Deport Pants
Rain Jacket
Hat
Sunglasses
Beanie
Gloves
Short
Shoes
Additional Items
Sunscreen
Insect Repelent
Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco Price
$295 USD
$275 USD
Student Discount:
- US$ 20 off per person
- All travelers under 17 years of age are eligible for the 20 USD discount.
- All travelers under 25 years of age and who are students are eligible for the 20 USD discount.
Valid Student ID for Machu Picchu:
To obtain the student discount, travelers must have a valid ID with the following:
Invalid student ID cards:
Student ID cards are not valid when:
- Over 25 years of age cannot be entered as a student.
- The card must have the name of the university, name and photo of the student.
- The card must have a valid expiration date
- Expired student ID card
- Student ID card without expiration date
- ISIC cards are not valid.
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Important Information
Things To Know Before Visiting Machu Picchu
You must bring your original passport to enter Machu Picchu. The document must match the information used to purchase your ticket.
With the standard entry ticket, re-entry is not allowed once you exit the site, even if you have not completed the full 2 hours inside.
Machu Picchu tickets are limited to 5,600 per day, so it is strongly recommended to book at least two months in advance, especially during peak season.
All entrance tickets—Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu, and Machu Picchu Mountain—are non-refundable, non-transferable, and cannot be rescheduled, according to the Ministry of Culture regulations.
Avoid dangerous selfies or jumping photos; these are the most common causes of accidents in the area.
Training shoes or lightweight walking shoes are recommended for this Machu Picchu day trip.
The Machu Picchu day tour from Cusco does not allow climbing Machu Picchu Mountain due to time limitations.
You will not see the sunrise on this tour; arrival time to Machu Picchu is typically around 8:00 AM.
Bring strong insect repellent, as mosquitoes are abundant around the citadel.
Machu Picchu offers the opportunity to get a unique passport stamp—a fun souvenir for travelers.
This day trip is ideal for couples, families, friends, and children.
Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level.
This full-day tour is the best option for travelers with limited time who still want a complete Machu Picchu experience.
You must arrive in Cusco at least one day before your tour to avoid logistical issues.
Your guided tour inside Machu Picchu lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.
This Machu Picchu tour with SAP Adventures has a maximum of 8 participants to ensure a more personalized experience.
Bathroom
There are no bathrooms or food stalls inside Machu Picchu.
Use the facilities located right outside the entrance before starting your tour.
The bathroom fee is 2 soles.
Food and Water
Bring your own water and small snacks.
Eating inside the site is officially prohibited, but a discreet snack is usually acceptable as long as you do not litter.
Bring water in reusable bottles, as Machu Picchu prohibits single-use plastics.
Prohibited Objects Inside Machu Picchu
Walking sticks are only allowed for visitors who require them; the tip must be rubber, not metal.
Drones, tripods, and selfie sticks are strictly prohibited.
Professional cameras require a special permit costing over $300—avoid bringing gear that appears professional.
Large backpacks are not allowed. Only small daypacks are permitted, so leave larger luggage at your hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Strikes
Strikes and roadblocks are relatively common in Peru and may impact rail services or normal tour operations.
SAP Adventures will always do everything possible to ensure your Machu Picchu tour takes place, though adjustments may be necessary.
If a strike occurs on the day of your Machu Picchu tour:
We will transfer you to Aguas Calientes the night before your tour date so you can enter Machu Picchu as planned.
After your visit, you will need to walk 3 hours from Aguas Calientes to Hidroelectrica.
From there, our private transport will drive you 7 hours back to Cusco.
You will arrive at your hotel around 11:00 PM.
About Trains to Machu Picchu
Expedition or Voyager Train
The Expedition Train is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a comfortable and affordable journey to Machu Picchu. Its spacious seats and large windows provide great views of the stunning Andean landscapes, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of the Sacred Valley as you travel. With a cozy atmosphere and attentive service, the Expedition Train ensures a pleasant and enjoyable experience at an accessible price.
Vistadome or 360° Train
The Vistadome Train offers a unique and comfortable journey to Machu Picchu, designed to immerse you in the breathtaking Andean scenery. With its large panoramic windows, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the mountains, rivers, and surrounding landscapes throughout the trip. The onboard experience includes comfortable seating, traditional music, and live cultural performances, making your journey as memorable as the destination itself.
Vistadome Observatory Train
The Vistadome Observatory Train offers a premium travel experience, combining comfort, breathtaking panoramic views, and a touch of luxury. Its large, dome-like windows provide uninterrupted views of the stunning Andean landscapes, while the Observatory Lounge, equipped with an open-air balcony, allows you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Sacred Valley. Passengers enjoy comfortable seating, onboard entertainment, and personalized service, making it the perfect choice for those seeking an unforgettable journey to Machu Picchu.
Frequent Asked Questions
What Circuit Will Your Machu Picchu Day Trip Follow?
We buy the Circuit 2 ticket for our Machu Picchu tour from Cusco, so you will visit with our guide both the upper and lower parts of Machu Picchu. This circuit is highly recommended because it allows you to explore the most iconic viewpoints and the heart of the Inca city.
How To Book A Machu Picchu Guided Tour With SAP Adventures?
To book your Machu Picchu Full Day by Train with us, simply click the BOOK NOW button on this page, choose your travel date, complete the booking form with your personal information, and make the deposit payment using your debit or credit card.
You only need to pay the deposit — the outstanding balance is paid in Cusco one day before your tour at our office.
What About The Outstanding Balance?
The remaining balance must be paid in cash (USD or soles) one day before your tour.
If you prefer to pay with a credit or debit card, a 2.9% service fee applies.
Cash payments are recommended to avoid additional fees.
May I Change The Departure Date After The Permits Have Been Purchased?
Unfortunately, once your Machu Picchu tickets and train tickets are issued, the date cannot be modified.
The only option is to purchase a new Machu Picchu ticket and pay a penalty fee to reschedule your train ticket.
The total additional cost to reschedule your trip is $100 per person, and we must first confirm availability for your new requested date.
What if there are no tickets?
When Circuit 2 is sold out on the official website, we cannot obtain it either.
In this case, SAP Adventures will purchase two separate tickets:
Circuit 3
Circuit 1
You will first explore Circuit 3 with our guide for approximately 2 hours, then exit and re-enter Machu Picchu to visit Circuit 1 on your own for 1 hour.
This allows you to see nearly the entire site, including photo viewpoints and the main temples.
An additional $45 per person applies due to purchasing two tickets.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Machu Picchu?
The best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the shoulder months:
April, May, September, October, and November.
These months offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower chances of rain.
Best time to visit Machu Picchu
Do I Need To Bring My Original Passport On The Machu Picchu 1-Day Tour?
Yes! You must bring your original passport, and it must match the one you used to book your ticket.
Your passport will be checked when entering Machu Picchu and when boarding the train.
Can I Book the Machu Picchu By Train Tour With My Expired Passport?
If you are renewing your passport, send us a copy of your old passport so we can book your ticket.
If you no longer have it, any government-issued document with the same name will work.
Once you receive the new passport, email us a copy immediately so we can update your ticket information.
Can I Stay In The Sacred Valley For My Machu Picchu Day Trip?
Yes, you can stay in Urubamba or Ollantaytambo.
Your pickup time will be about 1.5 hours later than Cusco pickups, allowing for more rest.
How About The Student Discount?
According to Peruvian law:
Students 11 to 17 years old: $20 USD discount
Children 2 to 11 years old: $30 USD discount
A valid passport and student ID must be sent to us at the time of booking:
info@sapadventures.org
Is This Day Trip To Machu Picchu Safe For Children?
Absolutely. This tour is family-friendly, safe, and suitable for children.
Machu Picchu has easy access pathways and all necessary visitor facilities.
Children receive a $30 discount, so feel free to email us for a personalized quote.
How Long In Advance Should I Book Machu Picchu 1-Day Tours From Cusco?
We recommend booking:
2-3 months in advance (May–August)
1 month in advance (April, September, November, December)
2–3 days before (January–February)
During holidays (Holy Week, July 28th, Christmas/New Year), book earlier because tickets sell out quickly.
I’m Staying At an Airbnb. Can You Still Pick Us Up?
Yes! We just need your exact address, and we will arrange your pickup at no extra cost.
Can I Do This Machu Picchu Train Tour Alone?
Of course. Solo travelers can join the tour in private service for an additional $60, making the total $350.
Is It Possible To Climb Machu Picchu Mountain On Your Machu Picchu Day Trip?
Yes, but we do not recommend it.
The climb takes 3 hours and must be done early (latest entry is 9 AM).
Most travelers finish exhausted and cannot enjoy the guided tour afterward.
I Am A Solo Person, Can I Join The Group Tour?
Yes, but please email us first to confirm group availability:
info@sapadventures.org
Can you organize our trip with a private service?
Yes! SAP Adventures offers private tours tailored to your group size.
Send us a message to receive a custom quote:
info@sapadventures.org
Is This Tour Appropriate for Visitors with Limited Fitness?
Yes. Many travelers over 70 have enjoyed this tour without issues.
There are some steps inside the citadel, so if you prefer going at your own pace, a private tour is recommended.
My luggage is large. Where can I leave it?
Large luggage is not permitted on the train.
Bring only a small backpack.
You can leave extra belongings at your hotel or with our driver — we will store them safely free of charge.
Which Attractions Will I Visit With a Full-Day Tour to Machu Picchu From Cusco?
Your experience includes:
Aguas Calientes main square
Machu Picchu Citadel
Aguas Calientes handicraft market
How Long Does This Machu Picchu One-Day Tour Last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 12 hours.
Can I Fly the Same Day After the Tour?
It is technically possible but not recommended.
Train delays are common and could cause you to miss your flight.
What To See In Machu Picchu Day Trip?
Highlights include:
Guardhouse Viewpoint (classic photo)
Temple of the Sun
Inca House
Temple of the Condor
Water Mirrors
Is Altitude Sickness a Problem at Machu Picchu?
No. Machu Picchu is much lower in altitude than Cusco.
If you felt fine in Cusco, you will feel fine at Machu Picchu.
Do I Need To Be Very Physically Fit?
No. This tour is rated easy and does not require previous hiking experience.
You will only walk inside the archaeological site.
Weather: These months mark the transition between the dry and rainy seasons, with relatively mild weather and fewer rainy days compared to the peak of the rainy season.
Crowd Levels: Fewer tourists than during the peak season, providing a more relaxed experience.
Advantages: Good weather conditions and fewer crowds make for an enjoyable visit. Prices for accommodation and tours may also be lower.
3. Rainy Season: November to March
While the rainy season has its downsides, it can still be a good time to visit Machu Picchu under the right circumstances:
Weather: Expect frequent rain showers and cloudy skies. February is the wettest month, and the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance during this month.
Crowd Levels: Significantly fewer tourists, which means a more serene experience.
Advantages: Lush green landscapes and fewer crowds. If you don’t mind the rain and are prepared for it, you can still enjoy the beauty of Machu Picchu.
4. Festivals and Events
Consider planning your visit around local festivals and events for a unique cultural experience:
Inti Raymi: Held in June, this is the Festival of the Sun, a significant Inca celebration in Cusco that attracts many visitors.
Winter Solstice: Occurs around June 21st, marking an important time in Inca astronomy and culture.
Differences Between the Circuits of Machu Picchu
| Feature | Circuit 1 Panoramic Route | Circuit 2 Complete Route | Circuit 3 Lower Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Postcard View | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes | ✘ No |
| Upper Terraces | ✔ Included | ✔ Included | ✘ Not Included |
| Main Temples (Sun, Condor, etc.) | ✘ Not Included | ✔ Included | ✔ Included (Lower Access) |
| Urban Sector | ✘ Limited | ✔ Full Access | ✔ Lower Area Only |
| Difficulty | Easy | Moderate | Easy |
| Best For | Panoramic Photos | Full Experience (Best Choice) | Shorter Visit / Limited Time |
| Includes the Most Important Areas | ✘ No | ✔ Yes (Most Complete) | ✘ Limited |
Where is Machu Picchu?
It is located in the center of Peru’s cloud forest, in the Cusco area. The iconic Inca Citadel sits atop a peak almost 2,400 meters above sea level.
Can you hike from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu?
Yes, you may walk from Machu Picchu Town to the Inca citadel, which takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Reserve now with a small deposit and finish later.
Trip Details
- Tour Type: Group Tour
- Duration: Full day
- Activities: Cultural
- Group Size: 6 - 12
- Difficulty: Easy
- Languages: English, Spanish
- Total Distance: 50 km