Machu Picchu Express: Full Day Tour

Explore the legacy of the Incas with our Machu Picchu Express tour.

Destinations

Perú

Activity

Tour duration

Full day

Group size

Up to 18 Pax

Star/finish city

Cusco City

Difficulty

Level 2: Easy

Travel with purpose

Plant a Tree

Through this adventure, you will be helping us achieve our goal of planting more than 2,000 trees in the community of Puccamarca in Cusco.

On this exciting one-day tour, you’ll have the opportunity to discover the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu, whether you join a group or enjoy a private experience, immersing yourself in its rich history and culture.

The journey begins early in the morning from Cusco, where you’ll be picked up by a minibus and transferred to the Ollantaytambo train station. From there, you’ll board the train to the charming town of Aguas Calientes, located at the foot of Machu Picchu.

Once in Aguas Calientes, you’ll have the chance to explore Machu Picchu, marveling at its breathtaking landscapes and archaeological monuments. After enjoying this unforgettable experience, you’ll return in the afternoon, completing a full day of adventure and discovery at one of the wonders of the world.

● Sunrise Train Journey to Aguas Calientes: Travel across the Sacred Valley by train, enjoying scenic views on the way to Machu Picchu’s gateway town.
● Guided Exploration of the Citadel: Discover the history, architecture, and hidden meanings of Machu Picchu during a 2-hour guided tour.
● Free Time to Wander the Ruins: Explore the terraces, temples, and viewpoints at your own pace, or opt to hike Huayna Picchu for a dramatic panoramic view.
● Lunch & Stroll in Aguas Calientes: Enjoy an included lunch and take time to explore the artisan market and charming streets of this jungle town.
● Comfortable Return to Cusco: Travel back by train to Ollantaytambo, then by bus to Cusco — arriving in the evening after a full day of adventure.

Machu Picchu Express: Full Day Tour

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TRAVEL ACTIVITIES: Cultural Adventures

TOUR TYPE: Shared group or Private tour

TOUR DURATION: Full Day Tour

TRAVEL STYLE: Standard

PHYSICAL RATING: Easy

STAR/FINISH CITY: Cusco City

● Pick-up Location: Hotel pick-up, only if located in the city center.
● Drop-off Location: Plateros Street (Cusco City Center)

TRANSPORT: Tourist van | Train

GROUP SIZE: Up to 18 Pax per vehicle

AVAILABILITY: All year

DEPARTURES: Daily at 4:00 AM

LANGUAGE:

● Spanish
● English

Machu Picchu Express: Full Day Tour

Immerse yourself in the cultural richness of Cusco while exploring its most remarkable attractions.

Enjoy this tour privately or join a group of passionate travelers like you!

04:00 / 04:30 a.m.: Pick-up from your hotel and transfer by tourist transport to the Ollantaytambo train station.
06:10 a.m.: Board the train at Ollantaytambo heading to Aguas Calientes.
07:50 a.m.: Arrival at Aguas Calientes train station, where our guide will be waiting.
08:00 a.m.: Breakfast in the town of Aguas Calientes.
09:15 a.m.: Board the bus for a 30-minute scenic drive up the winding road to the amazing Machu Picchu, known as “The Lost City of the Incas.”
10:00 a.m.: Guided tour of the citadel, exploring the Main Plaza, Temple of the Sun, Royal Quarters, and Temple of the Three Windows for approximately 2.5 hours.
01:00 p.m.: Return by bus to Aguas Calientes.
02:00 p.m.: Lunch, free time to enjoy the town, visit the local hot springs, or explore the artisan market.
05:50 p.m.: Arrive at the train station.
06:20 p.m.: Departure by train to Ollantaytambo.
08:05 / 08:20 p.m.: Arrival at Ollantaytambo train station, where you will be transferred back to Cusco by bus.
10:00 p.m.: Arrival in Cusco city.

Machu Picchu Express: Full Day Tour

The Machu Picchu Full Day Tour begins with hotel pick-up around 4:00 – 4:30 a.m., from where we’ll transfer to the Ollantaytambo train station, approximately a 1 hour and 40-minute drive. Once at the station, we’ll board the tourist train to the town of Aguas Calientes, arriving around 7:40 a.m.

Upon arrival, our guide will provide a briefing about the Machu Picchu visit. You’ll have time for last-minute shopping at the central market of Aguas Calientes before meeting the group at the Plaza de Armas or the bus station to Machu Picchu. Once at the Inca citadel, enjoy a 2-hour guided tour, exploring the most important sites of Machu Picchu.

After the guided tour, you’ll have free time to explore Machu Picchu on your own until approximately 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. You may also choose to add the option to climb Huayna Picchu for a spectacular panoramic view of the Inca city from above (subject to availability, please check before booking).

After experiencing Machu Picchu, we’ll return to Aguas Calientes for a included lunch. You’ll have some free time to explore the charming town before heading to the train station between 5:50 – 6:30 p.m. to board the train back to Ollantaytambo.

Upon arrival at Ollantaytambo station, our team will be waiting to transfer you back to Cusco city center.

Altitudes:

Cusco: 3,350 m.a.s.l. (10,990 ft)
Ollantaytambo: 2,790 m.a.s.l. (9,153 ft
Aguas Calientes: 2,020 m.a.s.l. (6,627 ft)
Machu Picchu: 2,430 m.a.s.l. (7,972 ft)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Tourist Transport: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Train Transport: Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo
Bus Transport: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu Citadel – Aguas Calientes

Note:
For this tour, it is necessary to purchase tickets at least three months in advance if you wish to secure entry following the traditional Machu Picchu route. Availability is limited, so we strongly recommend booking early to ensure your spot.

Important:
The listed price applies to foreign tourists. For Peruvian nationals and tourists from the Andean Community, please contact us for pricing and special rates.

● English or Spanish – speaking local guide
● Pick-up from hotel (available only for hotels close to the city center)
● 01 Breakfast
● 01 Lunch
● 01 Dinner
● Tourist transport
● Train Ticket (Round Trip): Cusco or Ollantaytambo – Machu Picchu
● Bus Ticket (Round Trip): Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu citadel
● Entrance to the Wonder of the World Machu Picchu
● Medical kit: First aid equipment, oxygen, and altitude sickness pills

● Meals, except those mentioned.
● Flights
● Extra expenses (such as tips or others).
● Travel insurance.

● Comfortable clothing
● Light jacket or raincoat (depending on the weather)
● Comfortable walking shoes
● Professional camera or a smartphone with good resolution to capture excellent photos.
● Hat or cap to protect yourself from the sun, rain, and cold.
● sunglasses, Sunscreen and/or moisturizer for face and body.
● Snacks: energy bars, chocolate, fruit, granola, or cookies.
● Your own medical kit with any special medication you may need, such as Sorojchi Pills (for altitude sickness) and blister protection.
● Cash in local currency, preferably in small bills and coins.

1. What is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu can be visited all year round, but the best time is from April to October, when there is little rain and it is ideal for exploring the city and visiting its main attractions.

2. What important details should I know about the experience?
● This experience is offered as a shared service, meaning transportation will be shared with other travelers, up to a maximum of 18 passengers, all following the same itinerary. Private tours are also available. Contact us at info@nomadex.com to learn about private tour pricing.
● To ensure the itinerary is followed, a maximum tolerance of 15 minutes is allowed for the tour start.
● Seats are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, and you must return in the same seat you occupied at the beginning of the tour.

3. How far in advance can I make a reservation?
● Up to 6 months in advance, subject to availability (since entry to some attractions is limited).
● Up to 48 hours before the tour, subject to availability (only if you are already in Cusco). If you are traveling from another country, we recommend booking at least 30 days in advance, or 2 months in advance during high season.

4. Do I need to bring my identification for the tour?
Yes. All participants must carry a valid ID, foreigner card, or passport, since entrance tickets must be purchased physically on the day of the tour, presenting your ID at the ticket office of each attraction.

5. Is the tour suitable for children and seniors?
The tour is recommended for adults and young travelers in good physical condition due to the altitude and hiking difficulty. Children over 8 years old may join with adult supervision. Seniors should consult with their doctor and consider altitude acclimatization before booking.

6. Are meals included in the tour?
Yes, lunch is included. We recommend bringing snacks and water.

7. Can I request a private tour for my group?
Yes, private tours are available. Contact us for pricing and arrangements.

8. What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, and a light jacket are recommended due to the varying weather conditions in Cusco.

9. How long does the City Tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 18 – 20 hours, depending on traffic and time spent at each attraction.

10. Can I climb Huayna Picchu during this tour?
Yes, it is possible, but it requires an additional entrance ticket, so the cost of the tour will change accordingly. Availability is limited, so it is recommended to book this option in advance.

11. Are there discounts for Peruvian and Andean Community tourists?
Yes, we offer special rates for Peruvian tourists and members of the Andean Community. Prices may vary depending on the type of service (train, private or shared tour) and the season.
To get a personalized quote and check availability, please contact us directly at info@nomadex.com or through our reservation form.

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