Machu Picchu & Machu Picchu Mountain Day Trip

Machu Picchu stands as one of the most extraordinary destinations globally: unveil the remnants of the Lost City of the Incas and ascend Machu Picchu Mountain through this expedition departing from Cusco.

Tour Overview

On the day of your adventure, you will be picked up from your hotel in Cusco between 4 am and 4:30 am, before heading toward the Ollantaytambo station. The train, scheduled to depart at 5:40 am, will take you to Machu Picchu.

During the one-and-a-half-hour train journey, you'll experience an unforgettable beginning, as this railway is considered one of the most scenic routes globally. Marvel at Andean vistas of unmatched beauty and relish panoramic sights through the train’s glass ceiling.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu, a bus will transport you up the hill to the archaeological site. There, your guide will direct you to the path leading to Machu Picchu Mountain, standing over 3000 meters high. You’ll have the opportunity to climb 300 meters independently, rewarding you with breathtaking views of the ancient Incan citadel. Remember to bring your camera!

After your ascent, we will regroup for a guided exploration of the Machu Picchu ruins. You will spend approximately two and a half hours tracing the steps of the Incas while discovering various segments of this historic city, including the House of the Guardians, which is the highest point in Machu Picchu.

Following the tour, we will descend via bus back to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have some free time to enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants or browse the town’s artisan market.

Your return journey by train will conclude with drop-off back at your hotel in Cusco around 9 pm.

Sightseeing Train

Your transportation to Machu Picchu will be aboard a sightseeing train (Expedition or Voyager trains).

Pickup Information

Picks up will commence between 4 and 4:30 am from hotels located in the historical center of Cusco. If your hotel is outside this area, we will arrange to meet at the Cathedral's entrance in the Plaza de Armas.

Train Stations & Duration

Trains to and from Cusco typically depart from either Poroy station (30 minutes from Cusco) or Ollantaytambo station (1 hour and 30 minutes from Cusco), based on availability. During the rainy season (December to March), Poroy station remains closed, and we will instead use a bus to reach Ollantaytambo. Once your booking is confirmed, you will receive an email detailing the specific pickup time from your hotel and the train station you’ll be using.

The duration of the transfers will vary depending on your departure station. Traveling between Poroy and Aguas Calientes takes around 4 hours, while the trip from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Additional Information

Should the tour be canceled due to strikes or adverse weather, an alternative date will be offered to complete the experience. If rescheduling is not feasible, you will receive a full refund, minus the non-refundable admission fees to Machu Picchu (approximately 200 PEN).

This activity includes a predefined route, and you can view the route map at the link below:

• Route 1-A (alternative)

If you wish to partake in a guided tour of the Incan structures, an additional admission ticket for routes 2 or 3 is necessary at a cost of 60 USD per person, depending on availability. For those interested in hiring a guide as an optional service, the local team will assist with arrangements onsite based on participant interest and language preferences.

Day Trip to Machu Picchu

It is essential to note that tickets for Machu Picchu Mountain often sell out well in advance (over 1 month). If your chosen date lacks availability, consider booking the Day Trip to Machu Picchu.

Last-Minute Day Trip

For those unable to secure availability for preferred dates, a last-minute 2 or 3-day trip to Machu Picchu is also an option, perfect for maximizing your time at this wonder of the modern world!