2 Day Machu Picchu Sunrise Tour from Cusco by Train
Our 2-Day Machu Picchu Sunrise Tour from Cusco is an overnight train journey designed around an early-morning visit to the Inca citadel. The service begins with pickup from your hotel in Cusco and lasts two days and one night, giving you time to travel to Aguas Calientes and rest before visiting Machu Picchu the following morning.
We recommend this tour for first-time visitors, couples, photographers, active adults, and families traveling with teenagers who prefer a more comfortable alternative to a long one-day journey. When conditions are clear, the morning light gradually illuminates the mountains and terraces. Because Machu Picchu is located in a cloud forest, mist or clouds may affect visibility, and a clear sunrise cannot be guaranteed.
Our service covers the essential transportation, one night of accommodation, official Machu Picchu admission, shuttle buses, and a professionally guided visit. Our Cusco-based team coordinates the train schedules, hotel, entrance time, available circuit, and return transportation as one connected trip, with local assistance from pickup until your arrival back in Cusco.
Highlights
- Early-morning Machu Picchu visit with the opportunity to experience changing light, mountain mist, and peaceful views across the citadel.
- Overnight stay in Aguas Calientes so you can begin the second day close to Machu Picchu instead of traveling from Cusco before your visit.
- Scenic round-trip train journey through the Sacred Valley and alongside the Urubamba River.
- Professional guided tour focused on the history, architecture, and cultural importance of the Inca citadel.
- Locally coordinated service connecting your hotel transfers, trains, accommodation, entrance ticket, shuttle buses, and guide.
Itinerary
Detailed Sunrise Tour Itinerary
Click any day to expand/collapse
Day 1
Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
Our service begins with morning pickup from your hotel in Cusco. We then travel in private transportation through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo train station.
From Ollantaytambo, you will board the tourist train to Aguas Calientes. The journey follows the Urubamba River as the landscape gradually changes from the Andean valley to the cloud forest surrounding Machu Picchu.
Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel and have the remainder of the afternoon free. You may walk through town, visit the artisan market, enjoy a local restaurant, or relax at the thermal baths before resting for the following morning.
Day 1 at a glance
- Route: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
- Train journey: Approximately 1.5–2 hours
- Afternoon: Free time in Aguas Calientes
- Overnight: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Day 2
Early-Morning Machu Picchu Visit – Return to Cusco
After an early breakfast, you will walk to the bus station and take the approximately 25-minute shuttle ride to Machu Picchu. At the entrance, you must present the original passport used to reserve your ticket.
Your professional guide will lead an approximately two-hour visit following the route established by your assigned entrance circuit. During the tour, you will learn about the citadel’s history, architecture, agricultural terraces, temples, and role within the Inca Empire.
Our visit is arranged for the early morning, when changing light and mountain mist can create distinctive views across the archaeological site. On clear days, you may see sunlight gradually illuminate the surrounding peaks and stone terraces. However, cloud cover and local weather conditions mean that a visible sunrise cannot be guaranteed.
After completing the guided visit, we take the shuttle 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 station for the private transfer back to your hotel in Cusco. Arrival is generally expected in the early evening, although the exact time will depend on your confirmed train schedule and road conditions.
Day 2 at a glance
- Bus ride to Machu Picchu: Approximately 25 minutes
- Guided visit: Approximately 2 hours
- Machu Picchu elevation: 2,430 m (7,972 ft)
- Return transportation: Shuttle bus, train, and private vehicle
- Final destination: Your hotel in Cusco
Inclusions
What Is Included
Our service includes the main reservations and transportation needed for your two-day visit from Cusco.
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco
- Private transportation between Cusco and Ollantaytambo
- Round-trip tourist train tickets
- One night of accommodation in Aguas Calientes
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Round-trip bus tickets to Machu Picchu
- Official Machu Picchu entrance ticket
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Booking coordination and local assistance
What Is Not Included
The following expenses are not included in the tour price:
- Lunches, dinners, and drinks
- Entrance to the Aguas Calientes hot springs
- Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Optional tips for the guide and driver
Packing List
Packing List for the Machu Picchu Sunrise Tour
Travel with a small overnight bag and leave large suitcases at your hotel in Cusco. Always follow the baggage allowance shown on your confirmed train ticket.
- Original passport used to make the reservation
- Valid student ID if you booked a student rate
- Small overnight bag or daypack
- Comfortable walking shoes with good traction
- Warm fleece or light jacket for the early morning
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
- Sun hat, sunglasses, and SPF 50 sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Reusable water bottle
- Personal medication and basic toiletries
- Phone or camera with charger or power bank
- Cash in Peruvian soles for meals and personal expenses
Price
Machu Picchu Sunrise Tour Prices
All prices are listed in US dollars per person. Early-morning admission and train schedules are confirmed according to official availability.
Small-Group Tour
| Traveler Category | Price per Person |
|---|---|
| 2–3 travelers | US$450 |
| 4 or more travelers | US$430 |
| University students | US$400 |
The small-group service is recommended for travelers who want an organized experience at a more accessible price while sharing transportation and guiding services with other guests.
Private Tour
| Traveler Category | Price per Person |
|---|---|
| 2–3 travelers | US$510 |
| 4 or more travelers | US$490 |
| Children and students | US$460 |
The private service includes a dedicated guide for your group, allowing a more personalized walking pace and additional attention during the Machu Picchu visit.
Student and child rates are subject to eligibility and document verification. Valid original identification must be presented when required.
FAQs
FAQs about Machu Picchu sunrise tour 2 days
What is the best time of year to do the Machu Picchu sunrise tour?
The best time for the Machu Picchu sunrise tour is during the dry season, from May to October, when the weather is more stable. However, the tour is available year-round.
How difficult is the Machu Picchu sunrise tour?
The Machu Picchu sunrise tour is considered moderate in difficulty. It doesn’t require advanced trekking experience, but it does involve some walking and waking up early to enjoy the sunrise.
Is the Machu Picchu sunrise tour safe?
Yes, the Machu Picchu sunrise tour is safe. It includes a professional guide, organized transportation, and official entrance tickets. We recommend having travel insurance and bringing proper clothing for changing weather conditions.
What documents do I need for the Machu Picchu sunrise tour?
You must bring your original passport, the same one you used when booking. It is required to enter Machu Picchu.
Concierge & Local Guide
Available in Cusco
John Taqquere
Local Tour Guide
Travel specialist in Machu Picchu
“I grew up surrounded by the Andes, and I love sharing the history, traditions, and hidden stories of my home with travelers from around the world.”Text John Taqquere on WhatsApp → (opens in a new tab)
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