Machu Picchu Day Tour from Cusco by Train – Small Group

Highlights

Inclusions

Itinerary

1. Your day begins at 4:15 am, when our driver will pick you up directly from your hotel in Cusco. As the city sleeps, you’ll travel through the Sacred Valley, where towering Andean peaks, traditional villages, and ancient Inca terraces paint a picture of Peru’s rich cultural heritage.

   2 h

2. At 6:30 am, we’ll arrive at Ollantaytambo and board the train to Aguas Calientes. This scenic ride along the Urubamba River treats you to breathtaking views of towering Andean peaks, lush valleys, and ancient Inca terraces—a perfect preview of the wonders awaiting at Machu Picchu.

   1.5 h

3. At 8:00 am, we’ll arrive at Aguas Calientes, the charming town at the base of Machu Picchu. After a short break to relax, we’ll board a scenic shuttle bus for the final climb up to the citadel. This exciting 30-minute ride winds through lush green mountains, offering wonderful views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Every turn brings us closer to the moment you’ve been waiting for—your first unforgettable view of Machu Picchu.

   30 min

4. At 9:00 am, we’ll arrive at the entrance to Machu Picchu, where the legendary Lost City of the Incas comes to life before your eyes. Over the next few hours, your guide will lead you through this awe-inspiring archaeological site, sharing the fascinating history and hidden secrets of the Inca civilization. You’ll walk through ancient temples, ceremonial plazas, and the famous agricultural terraces, all while taking in the breathtaking mountain views that surround the citadel. Of course, there will be plenty of time to capture those iconic postcard photos—the ones you’ve dreamed of. After your unforgettable exploration, we’ll board the bus back to Aguas Calientes around 1:00 pm, where you’ll have some free time to relax, grab lunch, or browse local shops before your return train to Cusco.

   5 hAdmission included

5. At 5:00 pm, your comfortable transport will be waiting at the train station to take you back to Cusco. As we drive through the Sacred Valley, you’ll have one last chance to soak in the beautiful Andean scenery—a peaceful moment to reflect on your unforgettable day. By around 7:00 pm, we’ll arrive back in Cusco, just in time for the evening lights to glow over the historic streets. You’ll return to your hotel with a heart full of memories and a camera packed with stunning photos—the perfect souvenirs from your day at Machu Picchu.

   2 h

6. This unforgettable day trip is more than just a visit to Machu Picchu—it’s a journey through the heart of Peru’s history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a history lover, a curious explorer, or simply ticking off a bucket list adventure, this experience is sure to be one of the highlights of your trip to Peru.

   1.5 h

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, for a full refund.

Reviews

Ratings come from 8 reviews collected by our booking partner. They are travellers' own words, in the order they were written — never reordered to flatter the experience.

Know before you go

How it compares in Cusco

• Its from-price is 343% above the median of the 1358 day trips we list in Cusco.
• Its length is typical for the group.
• By number of reviews it ranks 385 of 1358.
• The operator lists free cancellation on it.

About Cusco

Cusco, the old Inca capital high in the Peruvian Andes, blends massive stone walls with colonial churches and is the gateway to Machu Picchu.

The Plaza de Armas is the heart of the city, framed by the cathedral and the Jesuit church of La Compañía. Inca stonework survives throughout the centre, most famously at the Qorikancha, the sun temple on which the Spanish built a monastery, and in the twelve-angled stone on Hatun Rumiyoc street. San Blas, the artisans' quarter, climbs steeply with workshops and cafés.

Top-ranked sights in Cusco: Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu, Ollantaytambo Ruins.

See all 4460 experiences in Cusco