Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco by Vistadome Panoramic Train

Machu Picchu Day Tour: From Cusco to the Inca Citadel

Experience one of the New Seven Wonders of the World on this unforgettable day trip from Cusco to Machu Picchu. This tour offers a seamless journey, blending breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and the mystique of the ancient Andean sanctuary.

Early Morning Departure from Cusco

Start your day with an early breakfast at your hotel. Our expert guide will pick you up between 4:00 am and 5:00 am, depending on your selected train class. From there, we’ll drive through the Sacred Valley to the Ollantaytambo train station.

• Tip: Take advantage of this early start to avoid crowds at the archaeological site and witness the sunrise over the Andes.

Scenic Train Journey to Aguas Calientes

From Ollantaytambo, you’ll board a train that will take you on a mesmerizing ride through the Vilcanota River Valley. This train journey offers panoramic views of the lush landscapes, towering mountains, and the winding river that was sacred to the Incas.

• Fun Fact: The Vilcanota River was believed to be a terrestrial reflection of the Milky Way, representing a divine connection between the earth and the heavens.

Arrival at Aguas Calientes and Bus Ride to Machu Picchu

Upon arrival at Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes), our representative will greet you and guide you to the bus station. From here, a 30-minute shuttle ride will take you up the winding mountain roads to the entrance of the sanctuary.

Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

Explore the mysterious Inca citadel with a professional guide who will share insights into the history, architecture, and spiritual significance of this legendary site. You’ll visit key landmarks such as the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana Stone, and the agricultural terraces.

• Legend: According to Inca mythology, Machu Picchu was a royal estate and a spiritual retreat for the Emperor Pachacuti, but others believe it was a sacred place for astronomical observation and religious ceremonies.

Lunch and Free Time in Aguas Calientes

After the tour, we’ll return to Aguas Calientes, where you can enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and have some free time to explore the town or buy local souvenirs.

Return to Cusco

In the afternoon, you’ll board the return train to Ollantaytambo, where our representative will be waiting to take you back to Cusco. You’ll arrive at your hotel by approximately 6:30 pm, with incredible memories of your journey to the Cloud Forest.

Why This Tour is Special:

• Scenic Landscapes: The train ride through the Sacred Valley offers breathtaking views, and the ruins are truly awe-inspiring.
• Historical Expertise: Our expert guide will provide detailed knowledge about the Inca civilization and the significance of the citadel.
• Logistics & Comfort: From hotel pick-up to your return, every detail is handled, allowing you to relax and fully enjoy your visit to one of the world’s most iconic destinations.

This tour offers the perfect balance of adventure, history, and culture, making your trip to Machu Picchu a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Itinerary

Machu Picchu Day Tour - Cusco to Machu Picchu Round Trip

This one-day trip offers a complete journey to the Inca Citadel, allowing you to explore the Sacred Valley, enjoy a scenic train ride, and visit one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Here’s the full itinerary:

Early Morning Departure from Cusco

• Pick-up time: Between 4:00 am and 5:00 am (depending on the train class selected).
• Drive to Ollantaytambo: We’ll take you on a comfortable drive through the Sacred Valley to reach the Ollantaytambo train station.

Why it’s important?
Starting early allows you to experience the ruins at their most serene, avoiding crowds and maximizing your time at the site.

Scenic Train Journey to Aguas Calientes

• Train ride: Board the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, enjoying views of the Vilcanota River and the Andean landscape.

Why it’s special?
The train ride provides some of the most breathtaking views of the Andes Mountains, with dramatic landscapes and Inca history surrounding you.

Bus Ride to Machu Picchu

• Arrival in Aguas Calientes: Your guide will meet you at the station and lead you to the bus.
• 30-minute bus ride: Take a scenic bus ride up to the entrance, climbing through lush greenery and cloud forests.

Why it’s memorable?
The winding roads up to the sanctuary offer a thrilling ascent, giving you glimpses of the iconic ruins before you even arrive.

Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

• Explore Machu Picchu: You’ll have a guided tour covering key landmarks such as the Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana, and agricultural terraces.
• Duration: The tour lasts about 2 to 3 hours, providing plenty of time to learn about the site’s history and significance.

Why it’s unforgettable?
Visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Our guide will bring the site to life with stories about its construction, cultural importance, and the mysteries that still surround this incredible place.

Lunch and Free Time in Aguas Calientes

• Lunch: After the tour, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included).
• Free time: Enjoy time to explore the town or shop for souvenirs before returning to the train.

Why it’s relaxing?
Aguas Calientes offers a peaceful retreat after your exploration. It’s a great opportunity to unwind and soak in the atmosphere of this mountain village.

Return to Cusco

• Train to Ollantaytambo: Board the afternoon train back to Ollantaytambo.
• Transfer to Cusco: Our private transport will take you back to your hotel, arriving by 6:30 pm.

Why it’s convenient?
Your return journey is seamless, with everything taken care of so you can relax and reflect on your day at the Lost City of the Incas.

Includes / Does not Include

Included

• Hotel/AirBnb pick up and drop off (door to door service).
• Machupicchu guided tour.
• Roundtrip train tickets (at your selected train class) Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo.
• Round trip bus tickets in Machupicchu (Aguas Calientes - Machupicchu - Aguas Calientes).
• Admission tickets to Machupicchu.
• Professional English-speaking tour guide.
• Overland transportation for all transfers during the program.
• 1 Lunch.
• 1 Bottle of Water.

Not Included:

• Meals (Breakfast and Dinner).
• Travel insurance (Highly recommended).
• Additional and personal expenses (telephone calls, snacks).
• Gratuity (optional).

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