2 day Machu Picchu tour from Lima
Our 2 Day Machu Picchu Tour from Lima is perfect for exploring the ancient Machu Picchu citadel in a short time.
2 day machu picchu tour from lima by train
If you are planning a 2 day Machu Picchu tour from Lima, you are about to visit a place steeped in mystery. Machu Picchu is an impressive Inca archeological site located 80 km (49.7 miles) from Cusco city, often celebrated as the “Lost City of the Incas”. The site was built in the 15th century under the rule of Inca Pachacutec, but the citadel was later abandoned and famously rediscovered by an American expedition led by Hiram Bingham in 1911.
Most historians agree that Machu Picchu was actually an Inca religious sanctuary. During the height of the empire, the entrance was restricted strictly to the royal Inca family and high ranking priests. Today, anyone can visit Machu Picchu from Lima, but for centuries, its remote location kept it hidden it was never found by the Spanish during the entire Peruvian colonial period.
It is believed that the site was occupied by the last remnants of the Inca Empire until 1572, when Tupac Amaru was captured and executed. After the fall of the empire, the citadel disappeared from historical records, with just sporadic references to a “hidden Inca city.” This fascinating history is exactly what makes our lima tours machu picchu so unforgettable.
Who discovered Machu Picchu?
So, who actually found this place? It’s a bigger debate than you might think. While history books love to credit Hiram Bingham for “discovering” the site in 1911, the truth is a bit messier. There are whispers going back to the late 1500s about a Spanish soldier seeing a massive complex hidden in the jungle.
But here is the kicker: a local farmer named Agustin Lizarraga was actually walking around those ruins in 1902 nearly a decade before Bingham arrived with his cameras. Bingham is the one who put it on the map, sure, but he wasn’t the first. Hearing these stories right where they happened is what makes a trip to Machu Picchu from Lima so special.
When you finally stand there, the architecture just hits you. It’s classic Inca style massive stones, no mortar, yet they fit together so perfectly that you can’t even slide a credit card between them. You’ll walk through the Main Temple and the Temple of the Three Windows and just wonder, “How did they do this?”
Let’s be honest, a visit to Machu Picchu from Lima is the main reason you came to Peru. We know time is tight, which is why we designed this itinerary to get you to the citadel and back in just 2 days. Day one is your flight to Cusco and transfer to Aguas Calientes.
Day two is the big reveal: exploring the ruins before heading back to the coast. If you want to see the Wonder of the World without wasting a week, this is hands down the most efficient 2 day Machu Picchu tour from Lima you’ll find.
Why travel with us?
We aren’t just a booking website, we are a local travel agency totally committed to showing you the real Peru. Our staff has years of hands-on experience planning vacations here, which means we know exactly how to make your trip smooth. On our tours, you don’t just see the sites, you get unique, deep insights into the history and local traditions of every place you visit.
If you are short on time, our 2 Day Machu Picchu Tour from Lima is the perfect solution. We designed this specific itinerary to be the most efficient way to explore the ancient citadel without wasting a moment, making it arguably the best 2 day machu picchu tour from lima available. It really is the stress-free way to visit Machu Picchu from Lima.
But we don’t stop there. We also offer incredible day trips to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, the stunning Humantay Lake, and the famous Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain. Looking for a bigger challenge? Check out our special packages for the Salkantay Trek and the Inca Trail. Let us handle the logistics of your lima tours machu picchu so you can just focus on exploring the most incredible places in South America.
Day 1: Lima - Cusco - Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes
Itinerary for the 2 day excursion to Machu Picchu from Lima
Day 1: Lima - Cusco - Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes
We will pick you up from your hotel in Lima at 4:00 am. Then we will drive to Lima’s airport to take a flight to Cusco city, where we will be arriving around 7:00 am. Then, we will go in our private vehicle to Ollantaytambo train station. We will be driving through the beautiful Sacred Valley of the Incas. During the trip, you will enjoy the stunning landscapes of the Andes mountains.
Once we arrive in Ollantaytambo, we will board a train to Aguas Calientes town, which is the entry point to Machu Picchu. The train trip will take around 1.5 hours to complete and follows the course of the Urubamba river.
Once in Aguas Calientes, our staff will transfer you to your hotel room. Then, you will have free time to explore the town and its famous hot springs.
Day 2: Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Cusco - Lima
Day 2: Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Cusco - Lima
We will wake up early in the morning. After having breakfast, we will board a bus to Machu Picchu. After passing the security checkpoints, we will enter the Inca citadel.
Once inside Machu Picchu, you will have a guided tour of this amazing Inca archaeological site. You will be visiting the most famous places of the citadel, including the Main Temple, the Temple of the Condor, and the Intihuatana. If you have purchased a ticket to Huayna Picchu mountain or Machu Picchu mountain, our staff will guide you to the respective entrance.
After the guided tour, we will return to Aguas Calientes. You will have free time to have lunch at a local restaurant. However, the lunch is not included in the tour price. In the afternoon, we will board a train to return to Ollantaytambo.
Once in Ollantaytambo, we will transfer you to Cusco city. From there, you will take a flight to Lima city. You will be arriving in Lima around 11:00 pm. Once there, we will transfer you back to your hotel.
Logistics & Departure
Pick-Up Location: We provide a seamless Lima Hotel Transfer. We pick you up right from your doorstep to start your 2-day Machu Picchu tour from Lima.
Departure Time: Around 4:00 a.m. (Yes, it is an early start, but it ensures we catch the first flight to Cusco and maximize your time in the Andes!)
What’s Included in Your Package (The Essentials)
We designed this tour from Lima to Machu Picchu to be all-inclusive regarding logistics, so you don't have to worry about bookings.
Professional Guide: An expert English-speaking Tour Guide to lead you through the history.
Flights: Round-trip plane tickets from Lima to Cusco (Includes the Light Option: 1 carry-on bag up to 10kg—perfect for a short trip).
Train Tickets: Round-trip tickets from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes on the comfortable Expedition Train.
Accommodation: 1 night at a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes (private room with hot shower).
Meals: Breakfast at the hotel on the second day to fuel up before the ruins.
Transfers: Round-trip Consettur bus tickets from Aguas Calientes up to the Citadel.
Entrance Fee: The official entrance ticket to the Machu Picchu citadel.
What’s Not Included (Flexibility & Upgrades)
We leave these items open so you can customize your budget or experience on your Lima tours Machu Picchu.
Travel Insurance: Highly recommended for peace of mind.
Meals: Breakfast on the first day, plus lunches and dinners (This gives you the freedom to explore local restaurants).
City Hotels: Accommodation in Lima or Cusco is not included (since you start and end at your own hotel).
Mountain Hikes: Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (These are optional and must be booked months in advance).
Relaxation: Entrance to the Aguas Calientes hot springs (completely optional).
Train Upgrades: Want more luxury? Ask us about upgrading to the Vistadome or Hiram Bingham trains.
Personal: Tips for staff and any private expenses/souvenirs.
Packing list for the 2 day machu picchu
- Camera fully charged & extra batteries (batteries drain quicker in the cold)
- Water bottle and snacks
FAQs about 2 day Machu Picchu tour from Lima
We know planning a trip to the Andes can feel overwhelming. Don't worry we handle the logistics so you don't have to. Here are the answers to the most common questions about our 2 day Machu Picchu tour from Lima.
1. How do I get from Lima to Machu Picchu in 2 days?
It seems impossible, but it works if the logistics are perfect. We don't waste a single minute.
The Flow: Your tour from Lima to Machu Picchu is a synchronized chain. You take the first flight out (approx 5:00 AM) to Cusco. Upon landing, we don't linger in the city; we transfer you directly to the Sacred Valley (lower altitude) to catch the scenic train to Aguas Calientes. You sleep at the base of the mountain.
The Benefit: By sleeping in Aguas Calientes on Day 1, you wake up already there. On Day 2, you are among the first to enter the ruins, explore, and then travel back to Cusco for your evening flight to Lima. It is intense, but it is undoubtedly the best 2 day machu picchu tour from lima for travelers on a tight schedule.
2. What are the flight options from Lima to Cusco for this tour?
This is the most common concern. Here is the scientific reality:
The Strategy: Cusco City is high (3,400m). However, Machu Picchu is significantly lower (2,430m). On this specific 2 day machu picchu tour from lima, we skip staying in high altitude Cusco. We move you straight to the Sacred Valley and Aguas Calientes, which are much lower and richer in oxygen.
The Result: This "go low" strategy minimizes the risk of altitude sickness significantly compared to standard tours that stay in Cusco city. It makes this the safest machu picchu trip from lima for a quick visit.
3. How much time do I spend at Machu Picchu during the 2 day Machu Picchu tour from Lima?
The 2 day machu picchu tour from lima cost varies depending on your travel style, but transparency is key.
What dictates the price? The main variables are the train class (Expedition vs. Vistadome) and your hotel category in Aguas Calientes.
Value: Our packages bundle the expensive flights, train tickets, and private transfers. Booking these individually often costs more and carries the risk of missed connections. We bundle it to give you the best value lima machu picchu tour.
4. Is the 2 day Machu Picchu tour from Lima suitable for all fitness levels?
This is a logistical hack you need to know. The trains to Machu Picchu have a strict 5kg (11 lbs) limit for carry on luggage. They do not accept large suitcases.
The Solution: Since you start and end in Lima, we recommend leaving your large luggage in the secure storage at Lima Airport (Jorge Chávez) or at your Lima hotel.
What to bring: Pack a backpack for 2 days only. This lightens your load and makes the transfers on your machu picchu tour from lima much smoother.
5. What documents do I need for the 2 day Machu Picchu tour from Lima?
Don't let anyone tell you "all day" that doesn't exist anymore.
The Reality: Government regulations now limit visits to specific circuits. On your visit machu picchu from lima, you will have a high quality, 2.5 to 3 hour comprehensive experience.
The Guide's Role: Your private guide ensures you hit every key spot (Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana, etc.) efficiently. You won't wander aimlessly; you will see the best of the site with deep historical context.
6. Can I do the 2 day Machu Picchu tour from Lima with children or elderly travelers?
We prioritize your time and comfort.
The "Car Route": Takes 7+ hours of driving on winding, dangerous roads. It’s exhausting.
The Train: Takes 1.5 hours of comfort. The 2 day machu picchu tour from lima by train is the only way to ensure you arrive rested and ready to explore, rather than motion sick and tired. Plus, the river views from the train are a highlight of the trip itself!
7. How far in advance should I book the 2 days Machu Picchu tour from Lima?
If you are a photographer or love scenery, yes.
Expedition Train (Standard): Comfortable, good windows, efficient.
Vistadome Train (Upgrade): Panoramic windows (even on the ceiling), leather seats, and on board cultural shows.
Our Advice: For a trip to machu picchu from lima where you spend significant time traveling, the Vistadome upgrade transforms the transfer into a luxury sightseeing experience.
8. Where can I stay for a 2 day Machu Picchu Tour from Lima?
We wish we could say yes, but we have to be honest: Machu Picchu sells out.
The Hard Truth: Entrance tickets to the citadel are limited by the government. In high season (May–August), tickets can sell out 2 months in advance.
Recommendation: To secure the best 2 day machu picchu tour from lima, please book at least 6 to 8 weeks ahead. If you are booking last minute, contact us immediately we sometimes have access to cancellations or alternative circuits.
Mid Range Hotels (3-4 stars)
- Casa del Sol Machu Picchu Boutique Hotel – Great location, river views, and comfortable rooms.
- Tierra Viva Machu Picchu – Well rated for service and comfort, near the train station.
- El MaPi by Inkaterra – Modern design, good amenities, and an eco friendly approach.
Budget Hotels & Hostels
- Gringo Bill’s Hotel – Affordable, cozy, and centrally located.
- Supertramp Hostel – Backpacker friendly with dorm and private room options.
- Ecopackers Machu Picchu Hostel – Budget stay with comfortable beds and social spaces.
9. What should I bring for a 2 day Machu Picchu tour from Lima?
Absolutely, and here is why:
Low Impact: Because we use the train and private transfers, there is very little strenuous hiking involved until you reach the ruins.
Bus Access: We take the bus right up to the entrance gate.
Pace: Since you sleep in Aguas Calientes, you don't have a 3:00 AM wake up call like the one day tours. This relaxed pace makes it the most family friendly lima peru machu picchu tour available.
From:
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- Affordable prices
- Expert guides
- Transport included
- Comfortable accommodation
- Unique cultural experience
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