Peru
Machu Picchu by Train
Machu Picchu by Train
Duration
Day tour
Start/End
Cusco
Tour type
Private · Group
Level
Easy
Overview
The classic way to visit Machu Picchu in a single day. A scenic train ride takes you from Ollantaytambo along the Urubamba River, past Andean peaks and lush cloud forest, to Aguas Calientes – the gateway to the Lost City of the Incas. From there, a short bus ride brings you up to the citadel, where your guide reveals the history, architecture and ceremonial centers of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Afterwards, you have time to enjoy the views and take photos before the train and our private transfer bring you back to Cusco. Train and bus tickets, your Machu Picchu entrance and a professional local guide are included – a relaxed way to experience Peru's most famous site, even with little time.
Tour Code
Tour Language
English, SpanishMaximum altitude
Itinerary
Itinerary
Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Your day begins at 5:00 am with a pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. Our private transport takes you through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo, where you board the train to Aguas Calientes. The ride follows the Urubamba River through a deep valley framed by Andean peaks and lush vegetation. In Aguas Calientes, a short bus ride brings you up to the entrance of Machu Picchu (2,400 m / 7,874 ft). Your guide leads you through the citadel and explains its fascinating history, the architecture of its temples and terraces and the meaning of its ceremonial centers. Afterwards, you have time to enjoy the views and take photos. In the afternoon, you return by bus to Aguas Calientes and take the train back to Ollantaytambo, where our private transport is waiting to bring you back to your hotel in Cusco.
Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Itinerary
Your day begins at 5:00 am with a pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. Our private transport takes you through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo, where you board the train to Aguas Calientes. The ride follows the Urubamba River through a deep valley framed by Andean peaks and lush vegetation. In Aguas Calientes, a short bus ride brings you up to the entrance of Machu Picchu (2,400 m / 7,874 ft). Your guide leads you through the citadel and explains its fascinating history, the architecture of its temples and terraces and the meaning of its ceremonial centers. Afterwards, you have time to enjoy the views and take photos. In the afternoon, you return by bus to Aguas Calientes and take the train back to Ollantaytambo, where our private transport is waiting to bring you back to your hotel in Cusco.
Price from
US$399.00
Services
What's included
Private Transportation: From your hotel in Cusco to Ollantaytambo station and back.
Train Tickets: Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes round trip.
Bus Tickets: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu round trip.
Entrance Fee: Machu Picchu entrance ticket.
Professional Guide: Experienced local guide (English and Spanish).
What's not included
Meals: Meals are not included.
Tips & Personal Expenses: Tips for the guide and driver are optional and appreciated; personal expenses are not included.
Travel Insurance: Highly recommended.
Character of the trip
Condition
Easy
Altitude
Gentle (up to 2,400 m)
Culture / nature
Balanced
Fitness – easy: There is no hike – you walk through the site on stone steps and paths for about 2–3 hours. A basic level of fitness is enough.
Altitude – low: Machu Picchu lies at 2,400 m (7,874 ft), lower than Cusco at 3,400 m (11,155 ft).
Culture & nature – culture-focused: The Inca citadel of Machu Picchu with its temples, terraces and plazas, combined with the train ride through the Urubamba Valley.
Long day: With a 5:00 am pick-up and the return to Cusco in the evening, it is a long but rewarding day.
Dates and Prices
Individual Dates
Groups of 5 or more: contact us for special rates and tailor-made options.
Travel Information
Good to know
Book early: Machu Picchu tickets and trains are limited, especially from May to September – we recommend booking as early as possible.
What to bring
Daypack: A small, comfortable backpack for the day.
Original Passport: Required at entrance checks; bring your ISIC card if you claim a student discount.
Footwear: Sturdy shoes or hiking boots with ankle support.
Clothing: Rain jacket or poncho and warm layers (fleece, beanie, gloves) – mornings and evenings in the Andes are cold.
Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat and insect repellent.
Extras: Water bottle (metal or Nalgene), snacks, camera with spare batteries, personal medication and some Peruvian soles for drinks and emergencies.