Short itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Machu Picchu – Cusco
- Pick up from your hotel around 4:10 AM in Cusco.
- Transfer by bus to Ollantaytambo train station (approx. 1.5 hours).
- Board the Expedition train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town), arriving around 7:40 AM.
- Meet your guide and take the bus up to Machu Picchu citadel.
- Enjoy a 2-hour guided tour of the most important areas of Machu Picchu.
- Free time to explore the site on your own until noon.
- Return by bus to Aguas Calientes. Free afternoon to explore, visit the hot springs or the Manuel Chávez Ballón Museum (optional, entrance not included).
- Be at the train station at least 30 minutes before departure. The return train leaves Aguas Calientes at 3:20 PM.
- Arrive at Ollantaytambo around 5:15 PM. Continue by bus to Cusco, with drop-off at your hotel.
Detailed itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Your adventure starts very early. We’ll pick you up from your hotel in Cusco around 4:10 AM and travel by bus to the Ollantaytambo train station, a journey of approximately one and a half hours through the Sacred Valley. Upon arrival at the station, you will board the comfortable Expedition train to Aguas Calientes. This scenic ride offers beautiful views of the Urubamba river valley as you approach the lush jungle region surrounding Machu Picchu.
The train arrives at Aguas Calientes around 7:40 AM. There, your guide will be waiting to accompany you to the bus station, where you’ll take the 30-minute ride up to the Machu Picchu archaeological site. Once inside, enjoy a guided tour of about two hours, exploring the most significant sectors such as the Temple of the Sun, Sacred Plaza, Intihuatana, and terraces.
After the guided tour, you’ll have free time until noon to continue exploring the citadel on your own, take photos, or simply soak in the unique energy of this Wonder of the World. When ready, take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have the afternoon free to wander the village streets, relax at the hot springs, or visit the Manuel Chávez Ballón Museum (entrance fees not included).
Important: you must be at the train station at least 30 minutes before departure. Your return train leaves Aguas Calientes at 3:20 PM and arrives in Ollantaytambo at approximately 5:15 PM. From there, staff will assist you onto a bus that will take you directly to Wanchaq station in Cusco. Finally, our transfer will meet you and take you back to your hotel, concluding an unforgettable day visiting Machu Picchu.
Included
- Professional guide
- Transfers Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
- Train tickets Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo
- Bus tickets Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
Not included
- Lunch
- Entrance tickets to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (require advance booking and extra fee)
Recommendations
- Wear light clothing, bring a jacket for cooler temperatures or rain, and wear comfortable walking shoes
- Use sunscreen, hat or cap, sunglasses, and insect repellent
- Carry your valid passport or ID (required for entry)
- Have a small backpack with water, snacks, and personal essentials
- If you wish to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, book tickets in advance
- Always follow your guide’s instructions and respect the rules to help preserve this World Heritage site
