Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco

Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

Cusco – Departure

Your adventure begins early in the morn

ing with a hotel pick-up in Cusco between 4:00 a.m. and 4:30 a.m. Our private tourist transport will take you through the scenic Sacred Valley of the Incas toward Ollantaytambo train station. Along the way, you’ll witness majestic Andean landscapes, ancient agricultural terraces, and traditional villages nestled in the valley.

Ollantaytambo – Train Ride

Upon arrival at Ollantaytambo, you’ll board the PeruRail Expedition or Inca Rail Voyager train (depending on availability). These comfortable trains feature panoramic windows, offering spectacular views as you travel alongside the Urubamba River toward Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. Don’t forget to bring your passport or ID – it’s required for boarding both the train and the entrance to Machu Picchu.

Aguas Calientes – Meet Your Guide

At the Aguas Calientes train station, our professional guide will be waiting for you with a sign that reads Happy Gringo Tours. From here, you’ll head to the Consettur bus station, where you’ll take a 25-minute uphill ride through lush cloud forest toward the entrance of Machu Picchu. We recommend buying water and snacks before boarding the bus.

Bus to Machu Picchu Citadel

Enjoy a scenic 30-minute bus ride up the winding road to Machu Picchu. Marvel at the surrounding rainforest and towering peaks on your way to the entrance.

• Buy water and light snacks beforehand—you’ll need the energy!

Machu Picchu – Guided Visit

Around 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., you’ll enter the iconic Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Enjoy a 2.5-hour guided tour of Circuit 2 (Classic Route), where you’ll explore the most important sectors: the Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana stone, Royal Residence, agricultural terraces, Sacred Plaza, and more. Your guide will enrich your visit with stories, cultural insights, and historical context.

• Tip: Don’t forget to stamp your passport at the entry gate!
• Circuit: Usually Circuit 1 or 2 (Classic); if unavailable, we’ll confirm 3 or 4.

Return to Aguas Calientes – Lunch and Free Time

After the guided tour, you’ll return by bus to Aguas Calientes. You’ll have time to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant (your guide can recommend top options), relax, or explore the craft market, ideal for purchasing souvenirs and local art.

• Ask your guide for lunch recommendations—you’re welcome to join them!

Train Back to Ollantaytambo

In the afternoon, you’ll board your return train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. Departure is usually scheduled between 2:30 p.m. and 3:20 p.m. We recommend arriving at the station 30 minutes early to board without stress.

Ollantaytambo to Cusco – Final Stretch

Once in Ollantaytambo, our driver will be waiting to transfer you back to Cusco in a comfortable van. You’ll arrive at your hotel or drop-off point around 6:45 p.m. to 7:20 p.m., ending a truly unforgettable journey to the heart of the Andes.

• Drop-off options: Your hotel or Cusco’s Main Square if you’d lik