2 Day Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu Tour From Cusco
Our 2 day tour from Cusco combines a guided visit to the Machu Picchu citadel with the challenging climb to Huayna Picchu. The itinerary includes travel by tourist transportation and train, an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, and coordinated entrance times for both parts of the experience.
This is not a multi-day trek to Machu Picchu. You travel to Aguas Calientes by train, while the main physical challenge is the ascent of Huayna Picchu. During the archaeological visit, a professional local guide will explain the history, architecture, and cultural importance of the Inca citadel following the route assigned to your entrance ticket.
The Huayna Picchu trail follows steep stone stairways with narrow and exposed sections. It is recommended for active travelers who are comfortable with heights and can maintain a steady pace on demanding uphill terrain. From the upper viewpoints, you can see the citadel, surrounding mountains, and the Urubamba River from a different perspective.
Our team coordinates the main travel arrangements, including hotel pickup in Cusco, ground transportation, train connections, accommodation in Aguas Calientes, entrance tickets, bus transfers, and the return journey. Huayna Picchu tickets have limited daily availability, so the travel date must be confirmed before finalizing the reservation.
Tour Highlights
- Two-day, one-night service beginning and ending in Cusco
- Scenic train journey through the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes
- Overnight hotel accommodation near Machu Picchu
- Guided visit through the authorized citadel circuit
- Official entrance ticket for the Huayna Picchu route
- Steep mountain hike along original Inca stone stairways
- Panoramic views of the citadel and surrounding landscape
- Coordinated train, bus, entrance, and transfer schedules
- Professional local assistance throughout the journey
- More manageable schedule than completing all transportation and visits in one day
Itinerary
Detailed 2 Day Itinerary
We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and travel through the Sacred Valley in comfortable tourist transportation. The drive ends at Ollantaytambo train station, where our team will assist you before boarding the train to Aguas Calientes.
The rail journey follows the Urubamba River as the landscape changes from the high Andes to the vegetation of the cloud forest. Travel time is approximately two hours, although the exact duration depends on the train service selected for your reservation.
When you arrive in Aguas Calientes, a representative will meet you and assist with your hotel check-in. The rest of the afternoon is free to walk through town, visit the local market, or rest before the following morning’s activities.
You may also visit the thermal baths independently. Admission, meals, and optional afternoon activities are not included unless stated in your booking confirmation.
Day 1 at a glance
- Route: Cusco, Ollantaytambo, and Aguas Calientes
- Transportation: Tourist vehicle and train
- Train journey: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours
- Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Meals: According to the services confirmed in your reservation
- Difficulty: Easy
Early in the morning, we will walk to the bus station and travel approximately 25 minutes to the entrance of Machu Picchu. Your guide will assist with the admission process before beginning the visit.
The guided tour follows the circuit assigned to your reservation and lasts approximately two hours. Along the route, your guide will explain the construction, history, and cultural importance of the Inca citadel. The exact archaeological sectors visited depend on the entrance ticket confirmed for your travel date.
After completing the guided circuit, your guide will coordinate the next entrance and accompany you to the Huayna Picchu checkpoint. Before the climb, you will receive practical instructions about the route, permitted time, and safety conditions.
The ascent follows original stone stairways through steep, narrow, and sometimes exposed sections. Reaching the upper viewpoints normally takes between one and one and a half hours, depending on your pace. From the mountain, you can see Machu Picchu, the surrounding peaks, and the Urubamba River, weather permitting.
Allow approximately two to three hours for the complete ascent and descent. Walk carefully, use the available handrails where necessary, and follow all instructions from the site staff. This route is challenging and is not recommended for travelers with a strong fear of heights or limited mobility.
After returning to the checkpoint, we will leave the archaeological site and take the bus back to Aguas Calientes. You will have time to purchase lunch before boarding the return train to Ollantaytambo.
Our driver will meet you at the train station for the final transfer to your hotel in Cusco. Arrival is expected in the evening, depending on the confirmed train schedule and road traffic.
Day 2 at a glance
- Guided citadel visit: Approximately 2 hours
- Mountain hike: Approximately 2–3 hours round trip
- Huayna Picchu elevation: Approximately 2,667 m (8,750 ft)
- Trail conditions: Steep stone steps and narrow exposed sections
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Return transportation: Bus, train, and tourist vehicle
- Arrival in Cusco: Evening, according to the confirmed train schedule
Inclusions
Everything included in the Huayna Picchu tour
What Is Included?
- Pickup from your hotel in Cusco
- Private transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo train station
- Round-trip tourist train tickets between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes
- One night of hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes
- Breakfast at the hotel on Day 2
- Round-trip bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu
- Official Machu Picchu entrance ticket for the assigned citadel circuit
- Official Huayna Picchu entrance ticket for Circuit 3, Route 3A
- Professional English-speaking guide for the Machu Picchu citadel visit
- Assistance with entrance procedures and the Huayna Picchu checkpoint
- Coordination of hotel, train, bus, and entrance schedules
- Private return transfer from Ollantaytambo train station to your hotel in Cusco
Entrance circuits, train services, and departure times are subject to availability when the reservation is confirmed.
What Is Not Included?
- Breakfast on Day 1
- Lunches and dinners
- Snacks and beverages
- Hotel accommodation in Cusco
- Guided accompaniment during the Huayna Picchu ascent
- Entrance to the Great Cavern or Temple of the Moon on Route 3C
- Admission to the Aguas Calientes hot springs
- Train or hotel upgrades
- Excess luggage or private luggage-transfer services
- Travel and medical insurance
- Personal expenses
- Tips for guides and drivers
- Services not specifically listed under “What Is Included”
Huayna Picchu tickets are limited and issued for a specific traveler, date, and entry time. Your reservation is considered confirmed only after availability has been verified and written confirmation has been provided.
Packing List
Essential Packing List
Pack light for the train journey, overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, and Huayna Picchu hike. Bring only what you can comfortably carry in a small backpack.
- Original passport used to reserve your entrance tickets
- Small 15–20-liter daypack that keeps your hands free on the steep steps
- Broken-in hiking shoes with reliable traction
- Breathable hiking clothes that can be worn in layers
- Light fleece or jacket for cooler mornings
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
- Reusable water bottle
- SPF 50 sunscreen, sunglasses, and sun hat
- Insect repellent
- Personal medication and blister treatment
- Clean clothes and basic toiletries for the overnight stay
- Phone or camera with a secure strap
- Compact power bank and charging cable
- Cash in Peruvian soles for meals, drinks, personal purchases, or tips
Leave large suitcases and unnecessary valuables at your hotel in Cusco. Your confirmed train service may have a limited carry-on allowance, so check the permitted luggage size before departure.
Price
Tour Prices
All prices are listed in US dollars and apply per person. Your final reservation depends on the availability of Huayna Picchu tickets, train schedules, and hotel accommodation.
Small Group Tour
| Traveler Category | Price per Person |
|---|---|
| 2–3 travelers | US$495 |
| 4 or more travelers | US$475 |
| University students with valid physical ID | US$445 |
The small-group option allows you to share the experience with other travelers while receiving organized transportation, scheduled entrance tickets, hotel accommodation, and professional guided service.
Private Tour
| Traveler Category | Price per Person |
|---|---|
| 2–3 travelers | US$565 |
| 4 or more travelers | US$545 |
| Children and students | US$515 |
The private option provides a dedicated guide for your party and more personalized attention throughout the trip. Your group can maintain its own walking pace and take breaks when necessary, while respecting the fixed train schedules, entrance times, and site regulations.
Important Pricing Information
- Prices are per person and shown in US dollars.
- Student discounts require a valid physical student ID that meets current ticket requirements.
- Child and student rates must be confirmed before ticket purchase.
- Entrance tickets are not guaranteed until availability has been verified and written booking confirmation has been issued.
- Optional upgrades and services not listed under the tour inclusions may require an additional payment.
FAQs
Questions About the Mountain Expedition
Our travel team receives constant questions regarding the physical demands and logistics of this specific peak. Here is what you need to know before securing your spot.
What does the Huayna Picchu Tour include?
Our Huayna Picchu Tour package really is all-inclusive! It takes care of your round-trip train tickets from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, those handy bus transfers to and from Machu Picchu, and even the entrance fees for both Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu. You'll also have a professional English-speaking guide with you, and we've got your one night's accommodation in Aguas Calientes covered for a comfortable stay.
Is the entrance to Huayna Picchu included in the tour package?
Yes, the Huayna Picchu Tour includes your entrance ticket to Huayna Picchu. Just a heads-up, though: due to very limited availability, it's absolutely essential to book well in advance.
Is it safe to climb Huayna Picchu?
Yes, the trail is generally safe for those who stick to the guidelines and take proper precautions. However, it's really important to be extra cautious, especially when it's wet, because of some steep and narrow paths.
How far in advance should I book the Huayna Picchu Tour?
Booking your Huayna Picchu Tour at least two months in advance is a smart idea, especially if you're going during a busy time of year. You have a far higher chance of getting your spot that way.
What happens if there’s bad weather on the day of the tour?
The Huayna Picchu Tour operates come rain or shine. In the rare event of truly extreme conditions, your safety will always be our absolute top priority, and our guides will provide alternatives if necessary.
Will I have free time to explore Machu Picchu after hiking Huayna Picchu?
Yes! Our itinerary allows time to visit the main Machu Picchu site before or after the Huayna Picchu climb, depending on your assigned entry schedule.
Are meals included during the Huayna Picchu Tour?
Your Huayna Picchu Tour package does include breakfast, served right at your accommodation in Aguas Calientes. For lunch and dinner, those aren't covered in the package, but don't worry—there are tons of great local dining spots in town for you to check out!
Do I need to show my passport during the Huayna Picchu tour?
Yes, it's mandatory to show your original passport and entrance ticket at the checkpoint before entering Machu Picchu and starting the Huayna Picchu hike.
What time will we return to Cusco at the end of the Huayna Picchu tour?
You'll arrive back in Cusco at approximately 7:00 p.m., after taking the train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and a private transfer to the city.
Can I book a 1 day tour of machu picchu and huayna picchu?
While technically possible doing a machu picchu huayna picchu 1 day tour from Cusco is something we strongly advise against. The logistics are incredibly stressful and you run a massive risk of missing your strict mountain entry time due to train delays. Our two day itinerary guarantees you are already in town and completely rested for the demanding physical climb.
Is the tour machu picchu y huayna picchu safe
Yes the trail is absolutely safe as long as you follow the rules. There are steel cables installed on the steepest sections to help you keep your balance. However the path is rugged and exposed so it requires focus and proper footwear. If it rains heavily the stones become slick so stepping carefully is mandatory.
How far in advance do I need to find a tour of machu picchu huayna picchu?
You must book this expedition several months in advance. The government only allows a very small fraction of daily visitors to access this specific mountain. During the peak dry season from May to October these permits sell out entirely making last minute bookings completely impossible.
