Machu Picchu Full Day from Cusco
- Duration
- Full day
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Group size
- 2-12 people
- Maximum elevation
- Approx. 3,400 m
Machu Picchu day tour · Train + Bus + Expert guide · All circuits available · One day Machu Picchu experience
Machu Picchu is Peru’s most iconic archaeological site and one of the world’s most remarkable travel experiences. Built by the Incas in the 15th century, this extraordinary citadel rises above the Urubamba Valley, surrounded by dramatic Andean mountains and cloud forest. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu continues to fascinate travelers with its history, architecture, and spectacular setting.
Our Machu Picchu Full Day Tour from Cusco is designed for travelers who want to experience the Inca citadel comfortably in just one day. We coordinate the essential logistics, including transportation, train tickets, bus transfers, Machu Picchu entrance tickets, and a professional guide. This allows you to concentrate on exploring the archaeological site and learning about the remarkable civilization that created it.
During your guided visit, you will discover terraces, temples, ceremonial areas, stone structures, and panoramic viewpoints while learning about Inca history and engineering. With carefully coordinated schedules and local assistance, this tour offers one of the most convenient ways to visit Machu Picchu from Cusco.
Itinerary
Full Day
5:00 AM: Hotel pickup in Cusco. Transfer to Poroy or Ollantaytambo train station.
6:00 AM: Board the train to Aguas Calientes (Machupicchu Pueblo). The train follows the Urubamba River valley through cloud forest a spectacular journey in itself.
9:00 AM: Arrive in Aguas Calientes. Board the shuttle bus to Machu Picchu entrance (~25 minutes).
9:30 AM: Enter the sanctuary with your assigned time slot. Guided tour of Machu Picchu (~2 hours) covering the Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana, Temple of the Three Windows, agricultural terraces and water channels. Your guide will explain the history, architecture and ongoing research at the site.
11:30 AM: Free time to explore at your own pace, photograph from the classic viewpoints, or add a mountain hike (Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, must be booked in advance with your circuit).
1:30 PM: Descend by bus to Aguas Calientes. Lunch at a local restaurant (own expense, or see included options).
3:00 PM: Board the return train to Ollantaytambo or Poroy.
7:00 PM: Arrive back in Cusco, drop off at your hotel.
Included
- Round trip train tickets (Expedition class, upgrade available)
- Round trip shuttle bus between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket (your preferred circuit and route)
- Professional English speaking certified guide inside the sanctuary
- Hotel transfers in Cusco
Not included
- Lunch in Aguas Calientes
- Optional Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain ticket (must be added at booking)
- Tips (Optional)
- Travel insurance
What to bring
- Book your Machu Picchu ticket before your train. Ticket availability is more limited than train availability.
- Choose Circuit 2 (Classic) for your first visit to Machu Picchu, it covers the most iconic areas.
- Arrive at the sanctuary at your assigned entry time, late arrivals may not be admitted.
- Bring your passport to the entrance, it must match the name on the ticket.
- Do not bring a large backpack, only small daypacks are permitted inside.
Pricing
Price
|
Option |
Price per Person |
|
Standard (Expedition train) |
$180 USD |
|
With Vistadome upgrade |
$220 USD |
|
With Huayna Picchu ticket added |
$230 USD |
Machu Picchu entrance tickets have limited availability. Book at least 4–6 weeks in advance during high season (June, August).
Booking policy
Booking policy
- Free cancellation up to 72 hours before departure (Machu Picchu tickets are non refundable once issued).
- Train tickets are non refundable within 24 hours of departure.
- We recommend booking at least 4 weeks in advance during high season.
FAQs
Which circuit should I choose at Machu Picchu?
For a first visit, Circuit 2 (Classic Machu Picchu) is the most recommended, it covers the main archaeological areas. If you also want a mountain hike, add Huayna Picchu (Circuit 3, Route 3-A) or Machu Picchu Mountain (Circuit 1, Route 1-A).
Can I visit Machu Picchu without a guide?
Yes, you can enter independently with your ticket. However, a licensed guide provides context that transforms the experience from seeing old walls to understanding a living civilization.
Is one day enough for Machu Picchu?
One day gives you the essential experience. Two days (with overnight in Aguas Calientes) allows a second circuit and a mountain hike the next morning. See Tour 6.
Is altitude a problem at Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu (~2,430 m) is considerably lower than Cusco (~3,400 m). Most travelers feel fine after adjusting to Cusco's altitude.