Photo gallery
A glimpse of the journey
Tour overview
Machu Picchu Day Tour from Cusco, thoughtfully organized
Short on time but not willing to miss Machu Picchu? This private full-day tour, with your own guide and transport, takes you from your Cusco hotel to the Inca citadel and back in one smooth journey. Train, bus, entry ticket and guide are all handled by our local team.
Our Cusco team checks the services, timings and availability for your dates and sends the options in a written quote.
Journey highlights
What makes this trip special
- Scenic train ride through the Urubamba River canyon
- About 2–2.5 hours with a bilingual guide in the citadel
- Official entrance ticket and round-trip shuttle bus included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco
Interactive journey map
From Cusco to Machu Picchu
Follow the complete journey from Cusco to Machu Picchu. The line shows the transport sequence rather than turn-by-turn navigation.
Ready in Cusco
- 01CuscoHotel pickup
- 02OllantaytamboBoard the tourist train
- 03Machu Picchu PuebloAlso known as Aguas Calientes
- 04Machu Picchu entranceBegin your guided visit
By private carCusco to Ollantaytambo through the Sacred Valley.
By trainOllantaytambo to Machu Picchu Pueblo beside the Urubamba River.
By shuttle busMachu Picchu Pueblo to the sanctuary entrance.
Return journeyReturn connections are confirmed in your quote.
Detailed itinerary
Your day, step by step
Times and services are indicative. Your final schedule is confirmed in your written quote.
Pickup in Cusco
We collect you from your Cusco hotel and drive about two hours to Ollantaytambo station. Exact pickup depends on your confirmed train.
Train and shuttle
Travel beside the Urubamba River to Aguas Calientes, then take the shuttle bus up to the Machu Picchu entrance.
Guided citadel visit
Explore your confirmed circuit with your bilingual guide for about 2–2.5 hours.
Lunch time and return train
Take the shuttle down, enjoy free time for lunch in Aguas Calientes and board your return train.
Return to Cusco
Travel back from Ollantaytambo to your hotel in Cusco, usually arriving around 8–10 pm.
What's included
Clear inclusions, no guesswork
Included
- Hotel pickup and return transfer in Cusco
- Round-trip Expedition or Voyager tourist train
- Official Machu Picchu entrance ticket for the confirmed circuit
- Round-trip Consettur shuttle bus
- Professional bilingual guide
- Local assistance during your trip
Not included
- Meals and drinks
- Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets unless added
- Tips
- Travel insurance
Optional extras
Ways to tailor this trip
- Vistadome train upgrade +US$ 65
- Vistadome Observatory round-trip upgrade +US$ 145
- Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain ticket +US$ 75
Optional services are subject to availability. Mention your preferences in the booking form notes; your quote will list the selected extras and final total.
Plan with confidence
Essential trip details
Good to know
Before you travel
Entrance routes
Understanding Machu Picchu circuits
Machu Picchu uses timed tickets and set routes. The circuit available for your trip depends on tickets, trek permits and your itinerary.
Panoramic
Elevated viewpoints and selected mountain routes.
Classic
Classic viewpoints and the urban sector.
Royalty
Lower-sector temples and royal spaces.
Routes depend on official availability. Your quote will identify the proposed ticket route.
Planning guides
Useful reading before you book
What to bring
Pack light for the day
- Original passport used for booking, plus student ID if applicable
- Small daypack and refillable water bottle
- Rain jacket or poncho, sun hat and sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Comfortable walking shoes with good grip
- Cash in soles for lunch and tips
Carry the original passport used to book. Check your confirmed ticket and operator instructions for current baggage and site rules.
Frequently asked questions
Before you book
Can Machu Picchu really be visited in one day from Cusco?
Yes. It is a long but popular day trip. Train and entrance times determine the exact pickup and return schedule, so flexibility is important.
Which Machu Picchu circuit is included?
We prioritize Circuit 2 when available. If it is sold out, we explain the best available route before confirming your booking.
How far in advance should I book?
Book early for fixed dates, high season and holidays. Last-minute requests are checked but cannot be guaranteed.
Is the tour private?
Yes. Your guide and road transfers are private, from US$ 349 per person for two travelers. Train and shuttle services carry other travelers.
Do I need my passport?
Yes. Carry the original passport used for the reservation.
Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
It can be, provided travelers are comfortable with a very early start, a long day, stairs and uneven stone paths.
What happens if my preferred circuit is unavailable?
We will offer an available alternative or adjust the schedule where possible. You review the option before confirming.
Can I add Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
Mountain routes need a specific ticket and extra hiking time. Ask early so we can check the schedule.
Is lunch included?
No. You have free time in Aguas Calientes for lunch.
