Machu Picchu day Trip from Cusco

PRICE FROM
USD $230

Experience the magic of a day trip to Machu Picchu by train from Cusco. Discover the ancient Inca citadel with guided tours, breathtaking views and non-stop travel options: perfect for a memorable adventure in Peru!

Highly recommend

Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco Details

Itinerary at a Glance

Characteristics

Highlights: Visit Machu Picchu in just 1 day, travel through the Sacred Valley by train getting the best views of the Vilcanota River.

Distance Covered: 74.7 km / 46.41 miles

Meals Provided: Lunch

Altitudes: Commencing the trek at 2,000 m, reaching the highest point at the Sun Gate at 2,720 m, and the hotel at 1,900 m.

Weather Conditions: Warm and humid.

Train Departure Times: Voyager train departs at 6:30, while the Expedition train departs at 6:10.

Photos of Machu Picchu

Why book with us?

  1. Our prices are the cheapest in the market in relation to quality, we are direct operators and our treatment is from start to finish with the traveler.
  2. We have all the official certificates (DIRCETUR and MINCETUR) as an operating agency, we have the permits to acquire the tickets to Machu Picchu, Inca Trail, Tourist Ticket and many more.
  3. We have more than 15 years in the field of tourism, our staff is of quality, who will be happy to provide all the information to make your trip to Peru as comfortable as possible.
  4. We have been awarded with certificates of excellence in Trip Advisor these last years, you can verify in the comments to us of our service.

Day trip Machu Picchu from Cusco Itinerary

Day
01

Cusco - Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes - Machu Pichu

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.

Machu Picchu Day trip from Cusco Inclusions

Included

Permits & Entrance Tickets

    • Entrance Ticket for Machu Picchu Archaeological site ( Circuit 2-A: Ruta diseñada)

    Note –  If you want experience Circuit  2-A we recommended you to book  months in advanced.

Pre – departure Briefing

  • Attend our full briefing at 6:00 p.m. the day before your departure at the Sap Adventures office to ensure you’re tour-ready. Can’t make it in-person? Not an issue. Simply contact us via WhatsApp at +51960827076 to schedule a virtual briefing. To ensure a smooth setup, please contact us at least 48 hours in advance to schedule a bespoke session with your tour guide.

Experienced Guides

  • Our trips are guided by certified bilingual (English and Spanish) tourism guides. All guides working with SAP are Peruvian government-licensed and have graduated from recognized Peruvian colleges or tourist schools. This guarantees that you receive informed and expert advice throughout your trip.

Medical Kit

  • SAP guides have specific training in first aid and CPR. They also carry a first aid package for situations including altitude sickness, travelers’ diarrhea, and scrapes. In addition, if required, we will promptly evacuate you off the path and transport you to a clinic for treatment.

24/7 Customer Service

  • Our WhatsApp and local phone services are accessible 24 hours a day.
  • In any emergency, our guides can reach us via satellite phone.

Transport

  • 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 Ollantaytambo.

NOT Included

  • Dinner in Aguas Calientes.
  • Travel insurance.

What to bring to Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco?

  • Passport & water proof cover for passport
  • Extra money in soles
  • Personal medications
  • Water bottle or camel back
  • Sunscrean
  • Insect Repellents
  • Personal Care Products
  • Light Footwear
  • Trekking Socks
  • Trekking Pants
  • Short
  • Long sleeve T-Shirts
  • Warm Jacket
  • Raincoat or Rain Poncho
  • Sun hat
  • Neck Gaiter or Buff
  • Backpack   (15 – 25 L)
  • Camera and chargers
  • Power Bank
  • Snacks
  • Swmming kit

Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco Prices

General Price

  • ADULT: USD $ 250.00 Pp
  • STUDENT: USD $ 230.00 Pp (A Valid student ID is required)
  • CHILD (Minor): USD $ 230.00 Pp, Applies for all age 3 to 17 years
  • Required pre Payment – US$ 150 (you can do the payments in cusco after the Briefing )

Extras & Upgrates

Train to Machu Picchu

Train scheduled

Normally we choose the train schedules that will ensure that we arrive at Machu Picchu village according to our itinerary and that fits precisely to our schedule of visit to Machu Picchu, so the departure time for the Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco is the schedule of 6:30 Hrs.

Climbing Machu Picchu

Private Tour Price.

Pax number Price per person
1 Persons $ USD 350.00 Inquiry Now
2 Persons $ USD 300.00 Inquiry Now
3 Persons $ USD 290.00 Inquiry Now
4 Persons $ USD 280.00 Inquiry Now
5 Persons $ USD 270.00 Inquiry Now
6 or more Persons $ USD 250.00 Inquiry Now

More Information

What people say about us

Frequent Asked Questions About Machu Picchu Day trip from Cusco

Choosing the best time to visit Machu Picchu depends on several factors, including weather, crowd levels, and personal preferences. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you decide when to plan your trip to this iconic Inca site.

1. Dry Season: May to September

The dry season is generally considered the best time to visit Machu Picchu. Here’s why:

  • Weather: During these months, the weather is typically dry and sunny, making it ideal for hiking and exploring the ruins.
  • Crowd Levels: July and August are the peak tourist months, so while the weather is excellent, expect larger crowds.
  • Advantages: Clear skies offer stunning views and great opportunities for photography. This is also the best time for trekking the Inca Trail.

2. Shoulder Seasons: April and October

The shoulder seasons are a great compromise between weather and crowd levels:

  • 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.

Tips for Visiting Machu Picchu:

  • Book in Advance: Regardless of the season, it’s essential to book your tickets and accommodations well in advance, especially if you plan to hike the Inca Trail.
  • Pack Accordingly: Bring appropriate clothing and gear for the weather, including rain gear if you’re visiting during the rainy season.
  • Stay Hydrated: At high altitudes, staying hydrated is crucial. Carry water and take breaks as needed.
  • Altitude Preparation: Spend a few days acclimatizing in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before visiting Machu Picchu to adjust to the altitude.

Machu Picchu, one of the world’s most iconic tourist destinations, offers several circuits to explore its wonders. Each circuit has its unique features and highlights. Here, we present the differences between the main circuits to help you choose the one that best suits your interests.

1. Circuit 1: Short High Circuit
  • Duration: Approximately 2 hours.
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate.
  • Main Attractions:
    • The Guardian’s House.
    • The Sacred Plaza.
    • The Temple of the Sun.
    • The Sacred Rock.
  • Features: This circuit is shorter and focuses on the higher points of the citadel. It is ideal for those with limited time but who want to see the most iconic spots of Machu Picchu.
2. Circuit 2: Long High Circuit
  • Duration: Approximately 3 hours.
  • Difficulty Level: High, due to the greater number of stairs.
  • Main Attractions:
    • The Guardian’s House.
    • The Sacred Plaza.
    • The Temple of the Sun.
    • The Sacred Rock.
    • Intihuatana.
    • The Eastern Terraces.
  • Features: This circuit covers more ground and offers a more comprehensive view of the upper part of Machu Picchu. It is ideal for those who want to explore in more detail and are in better physical condition.
3. Circuit 3: Short Low Circuit
  • Duration: Approximately 2 hours.
  • Difficulty Level: Low.
  • Main Attractions:
    • The Temple of the Condor.
    • The Quarries.
    • The Mirrors of Water Enclosure.
  • Features: This circuit is more accessible and focuses on the lower parts of the citadel, making it ideal for people with physical limitations or families with young children.
4. Circuit 4: Long Low Circuit
  • Duration: Approximately 3 hours.
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate.
  • Main Attractions:
    • The Temple of the Condor.
    • The Quarries.
    • The Mirrors of Water Enclosure.
    • The Sacred Rock.
    • The Temple of the Sun.
  • Features: This circuit covers more ground in the lower parts and some areas of the upper parts, offering a more complete view of the citadel without the need to climb many stairs.
General Comparison
CircuitDurationDifficultyMain AttractionsFeatures
Short High Circuit2 hoursModerateGuardian’s House, Sacred Plaza, Temple of the Sun, Sacred RockIdeal for quick visits
Long High Circuit3 hoursHighGuardian’s House, Sacred Plaza, Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana, Eastern TerracesMore comprehensive view, more stairs
Short Low Circuit2 hoursLowTemple of the Condor, Quarries, Mirrors of Water EnclosureAccessible, ideal for families
Long Low Circuit3 hoursModerateTemple of the Condor, Quarries, Mirrors of Water Enclosure, Sacred Rock, Temple of the SunMore comprehensive view, fewer stairs
Additional Considerations
  1. Tickets and Schedules: It is important to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season. Each circuit has specific entry times, so plan your visit accordingly.

  2. Tour Guides: Hiring a tour guide can enrich your experience by providing detailed information and historical context about each point of interest.

  3. Weather and Gear: The weather at Machu Picchu can be unpredictable, so bring appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and water. Good footwear is essential due to the many stairs and uneven terrain.

  4. Restrictions: Some circuits may have access restrictions during certain times of the year due to maintenance or weather conditions.

Yes, you can. Our group trips are for 10 or 15 persons, but you may also organize a private tour. We have varying pricing based on how many persons you have.

We recommend bringing only small backpacks because there are hikes to do; the rest of your belongings can be stored at your Cusco accommodation. All hotels have storage, so if you book the night for your return, you can leave your belongings there; another option is to leave your belongings in our office; neither option requires you to pay any additional fees.

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.

If you want more information about where Machu Picchu is located click on the following link

Yes, one day is plenty to explore the historic fortress of Machu Picchu. However, the visit is limited to four hours per passenger, and tickets are given with a certain admission time. Furthermore, if you undertake the additional hikes, your stay may be extended from 2 to 3 hours.

The Machu Picchu citadel’s only bathrooms are located near the main entrance. There are no bathrooms in the archaeological complex.

Yes, it is strongly advised to book your Machu Picchu ticket in advance, especially if you are visiting during the peak tourist season. For further information, contact your travel agent.

No, there is no age limit for entry inside the historical sanctuary.

Yes, a guide must accompany you on your visit to Machu Picchu.

Yes, you may walk from Machu Picchu Town to the Inca citadel, which takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes.


Currently, it is not possible to purchase bus tickets to Machu Picchu in advance. However, you may simply buy it once in Aguas Calientes.

Yes, we strongly advise reserving a train ticket to Aguas Calientes in advance. For further information, please contact your travel agent.

Yes, to improve the experience within the archaeological site, the Peruvian government has adopted the following measures:

  • Permanence is restricted to four hours per ticket.
  • You will be unable to access the fortress without a guide.
  • Only small backpacks are permitted at the archaeological site.
  • Alcohol, narcotics, and tobacco are prohibited.
  • Drones are not permitted in the historical sanctuary.
  • Tripods, huge umbrellas, and selfie sticks are not permitted.
  • Baby carts are not permitted.
  • Professional cameras require a specific permission.

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