Machu Picchu By Train (2 days)

Embark on a memorable journey with our 2-Day Cusco to Machu Picchu Tour. This is the perfect opportunity to explore the ancient citadel in the heart of the Peruvian Andes.

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Duration: 2 days
Difficulty: Moderate
Recommended age: 16 years
Language: Spanish, English, Portuguese
Max Height: 3200 msnm
Group: 2 people minimum

Embark on a memorable journey with our 2-Day Cusco to Machu Picchu Tour. This is the perfect opportunity to explore the ancient citadel in the heart of the Peruvian Andes.

Our Machu Picchu Tours from Cusco are designed to provide you with a seamless and immersive experience. Our travel experts put together an awesome itinerary to make sure you create memories that’ll last a lifetime. With the guidance of our expert tour guides, you will delve into the fascinating history and culture of this iconic destination. You will be immersed in its natural beauty.

Your adventure begins in the historic city of Cusco. We will transport you to the charming town of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to marvel at the picturesque Sacred Valley and its lush landscapes.

After arriving in Aguas Calientes, you’ll have the evening to relax, explore the local attractions. We will give you plenty of tips to prepare you for the following day’s visit to the world-renowned Inca citadel.

On the second day, we will start early and make our way to the entrance of Machu Picchu. Our knowledgeable tour guide will lead you through the ancient site. During the tour we will be sharing captivating stories and insights about the Inca civilization. You will understand the significance of this masterpiece.

The closer you get to the archaeological site, the more its mystery will surround you. On a guided tour, you will be visiting the prominent sites of the citadel. You will tour the Main Plaza, the Sacred Solar Clock, the Temple of the Three Windows, among other delights.

After the tour, you’ll also have the option to climb Huayna Picchu, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

Day 1: Cusco to Aguas Calientes

7 AM: Our 2-Day Machu Picchu Tour kicks off with an early morning pick-up from your hotel. We will be leaving from Cusco at approximately 7 AM. We will embark on a picturesque drive through the Sacred Valley

8:30 AM: After about 1.5 hours, we will reach Ollantaytambo Train Station, located 38 miles (61 kilometers) from Cusco. Here, we board the train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

10 AM: The train journey takes around 1.5 hours, covering a distance of 30 miles (48 kilometers). During this time, you will marvel at the breathtaking scenery, including lush valleys and towering mountains. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, we will check into our accommodation, and you will have some free time to enjoy lunch (not included).

The afternoon offers the opportunity to explore the charming town at your leisure. You can visit local markets, stroll through the streets, or unwind in the nearby hot springs. To ensure you’re well-rested for the following day’s adventure, we recommend turning in early.

Our first day of the 2-Day Machu Picchu Tour sets the stage for an unforgettable journey. We will be exploring the heart of the Inca Empire. As we travel from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, you will experience the stunning natural beauty of the region. Be prepared for the awe-inspiring experience of visiting Machu Picchu on this 2- day tour.

What to do in Aguas Calientes?

If you love history, the Machu Picchu Museum is a great place to visit. The museum highlights pre-Inca times with a collection of Inca artifacts, offering a deep dive into the region’s rich cultural heritage. Located just hours from Aguas Calientes town, it provides a perfect start to your exploration. After visiting the museum, you can take the train to Aguas Calientes, which takes about 2 hours to reach Aguas Calientes, and continue your journey.

The Orchid Gardens is another must-visit location, about a 30-minute walk from Aguas Calientes. This site has a rustic feel and is filled with a variety of beautiful orchids on display, offering a serene and picturesque environment. For those looking to unwind, enjoy the rest of the day relaxing in the thermal waters of the Hot Springs in Aguas Calientes. This soothing experience is a perfect way to end your day, soaking in the warm waters and taking in the natural beauty of the surroundings.

5:30 AM: On the second day of our 2-Day Machu Picchu Tour, we will rise early and have breakfast at the hotel. We will then board a bus to Machu Picchu at around 5:30 AM for a 25-minute ride to the entrance of Machu Picchu. The 5-mile (8-kilometer) serpentine road offers breathtaking views of the Urubamba River below.

6 AM: Upon arrival, our expert tour guide will lead you on a 2- to 3-hour exploration of the magical Inca citadel. To get to Machu Picchu, you will traverse breathtaking landscapes and climb through lush, cloud-covered mountains, making the journey as remarkable as the destination. Once at the site, our guide will share some interesting stories about the history and cultural importance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will have the opportunity to explore the intricacies of the ancient stone structures, terraces, and temples, each telling a story of the ingenuity and spiritual beliefs of the Inca civilization. The panoramic views from various points in the citadel will offer unforgettable memories, ensuring that your visit to Machu Picchu is both enlightening and awe-inspiring.

Following the guided trip to Machu Picchu, you’ll have some free time to explore the citadel at your own pace. This is the perfect opportunity to capture memorable photos of the stunning vistas and ancient architecture that surrounds you. For those seeking a bit more adventure, you can hike to the Sun Gate, also known as Inti Punku, which offers a magnificent panoramic view of Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountains. Alternatively, you can trek to the Inca Bridge, an impressive and historically significant structure that showcases the remarkable engineering skills of the Incas. Whether you choose to relax and soak in the mystical atmosphere or embark on these additional hikes, your time in Machu Picchu will be filled with unforgettable experiences and discoveries.

For those interested, this is the ideal time to embark on the adventure of climbing Huayna Picchu. It is subject to availability and advance booking. Enquire with us (add link) if you would like to customize your Machu Picchu tour to include trekking Huayna Picchu.

You can also hike to Sungate. It is the point of entrance to Machu Picchu for those hiking the esteemed Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu.

After the tour, we will return to Aguas Calientes town for a late lunch (not included).

4 PM: After lunch, we will board the train back to Ollantaytambo around 4 PM. The train journey takes approximately 1.5 hours. It offers more opportunities to admire the surrounding landscape.

5:30 PM: From Ollantaytambo, we will drive you back to your hotel in Cusco, completing your unforgettable 2-Day Machu Picchu Tours from Cusco.

8 PM: The drive takes around 1.5 hours, and you are expected to arrive back at your hotel in Cusco by 8:00 PM. You are then free to explore Cusco city at your own leisure, or have an early rest while you recount one of the most unforgettable day of your life.

Departure & Return Location
Cusco Hotel Transfer

Departure Time
8:00 a.m.

Price Includes

  • Professional english speaking Tour Leader in Machu Picchu
  • Pick-up from and drop off in your hotel
  • Transportation by bus to and from Ollantaytambo
  • Round trip train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
  • 1 Breakfast
  • 3 Star hotel in Aguas Calientes
  • Machu Picchu entrance ticket
  • Return bus tickets from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes

Price Excludes

  • Entrance fee to Huayna Picchu
  • Travel Insurance
  • Any Private Expenses

Packing list

  • Original Passport (same as used at time of booking for permits/ tickets)
  • Waterproof jacket / rain poncho
  • Sun hat or cap
  • Warm jacket/ fleece
  • Insect repellent
  • Personal medication
  • Protect & hydrate sunscreen lotion (factor 60 or 70+ is recommendable)
  • Long sleeve Shirt (protection from sun)
  • Pants (zip off pants are ideal in changing weather conditions )

Usefull info

  • Distance from Cusco to Machu Picchu -112 kms /69.6 miles
  • Train to Machu Picchu – Peru Rail Expedition Train
  • Accommodation – 3 Star Hotel
  • Consideration: Entrance fee to Machu Picchu required
  • Tour Availability – Daily departure with minimum 2 people
  • Weather – Dry season from May to October, Wet from November to April
  • To climb Huayna Picchu Mountain you need to book in advance
Ready to Experience This Adventure?

From:

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430

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