Discover the magic of the Andes on this unforgettable Machu Picchu tour 1 day by train. Travel comfortably through the breathtaking Sacred Valley , following the path of the Vilcanota River, as you journey toward the legendary Inca citadel. This full-day experience is ideal for travelers who want to explore the wonder of Machu Picchu without hiking. Enjoy a scenic train ride, a professionally guided tour of the archaeological site, and return to Cusco the same evening — all in one incredible day.
We will begin our adventure early in the morning, departing from Cuscoby bus towards the picturesque town of Ollantaytambo. From there, we will board a comfortable train that will take us on a scenic journey through the lush cloud forest of the Cusco Valley, following the course of the Vilcanota River until we arrive at Machu Picchu Pueblo (also known as Aguas Calientes).
Upon arrival, we’ll continue our ascent by bus to the majestic archaeological sanctuary of Machu Picchu. Accompanied by a professional guide, we’ll explore the iconic Inca citadel, uncovering its history, architecture, and mysteries. During the guided tour, you’ll visit the main temples, ceremonial areas, terraces, and dwellings that reveal the genius of Inca engineering.
One of the highlights of the visit is the opportunity to take stunning panoramic photos from the Guardian’s House — one of the best viewpoints in the complex. From here, you’ll capture unforgettable shots of the entire site, with the imposing Huayna Picchu Mountain rising in the background.
After the tour, we’ll return to Machu Picchu Pueblo, where you’ll have some free time to explore, enjoy lunch (not included), or shop for local crafts before taking the train and bus back to Cusco.
Duration
1 day
Tour type
Archaeological
Difficulty
Easy
Guide
Inglés, español
Group size
6 to 10
Maximum altitude
2400 masl
Itinerary
Day: 01 Machu Picchu tour 1 day
At 4:00 am approx. our transfer pick up you at your hotel and take you to the departure point of the bus to Ollantaytambo.
From Cusco we will have a trip approximately 2 hours, crossing the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo, where we will board the train to MachuPicchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes),
After boarding the train we will have 2 hours travel next to the vilcanota river, enjoying a beautiful landscape with fields crops and Inca terraces, upon arrival at our destination, our guide will be waiting for us to give instructions to take the bus to visit Machu Picchu in Peru.
After a 40 minute ride on a winding road, we will arrive at the control gate of Machu Picchu, from here we will start the visit the great citadel, accompanied by our guide, who will explain the most important events and take the best picture of machu picchu.
After 2 hours and 30 minutes visit we will take our bus back to the village, where we will have enough time to visit the village, have lunch and then get ready to take the train to Ollantaytambo.
Upon arrival to Ollantaytambo our transfer will be waiting to take you back to Cusco City, near the main square or to the hotel.
Photo Gallery: Machu Picchu Tour 1 Day by train
Machu Picchu tour 1 day schedule
4:00 am pick up from your hotel.
4:20 am bus Cusco to Ollantaytambo.
7:22 am travel to Machu Picchu by train.
8:50 am arrival to Machupicchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes).
8:50 am to 10:00 am Arrival to Aguas Calientes, meeting with the guide, free time for breakfast.
10:00 am take the bus from the Inca Citadel.
10:00 am visit Machupicchu with tour guide for 3 hours.
1:00 pm free time.
16:12 pm train back to Ollantaytambo (depending on availability the schedule may change, check availability).
18:10 pm bus from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
20:20 pm arrival to Cusco and transfer to your hotel.
Note: Departure times are subject to availability of entrance tickets to Machu Picchu and train schedules. The exact start time of the tour will be confirmed at the time of booking.
Starting Point: Cusco city (hotel pickup included in most cases)
Departure Time: Early morning (exact time will be confirmed at the time of booking)
Note: Times are subject to availability of Machu Picchu entrance tickets and train schedules.
Duration: Full-day tour (approximately 14–16 hours round trip)
Transportation:Tourist bus from Cusco to Ollantaytambo
Expedition or Voyague train to Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes)
Bus to Machu Picchu archaeological site
Return by train and bus to Cusco
Machu picchu 1 day trip by train from cusco – Peru Rail & Inca Rail Options
Enjoy an unforgettable full-day experience to the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. Travel comfortably from Cusco by bus and train, explore one of the New Seven Wonders of the World with a professional guide, and return the same evening. We offer two train options: Peru Rail and Inca Rail, based on your preference and availability.
*Departure and return times may vary depending on train and Machu Picchu ticket availability. We recommend booking in advance.*
🟦 Itinerary – Peru Rail Option
Pick-up time: Between 04:30 and 05:00 AM from your hotel in Cusco.
Boarding Point
Service
Departure
Destination
Arrival
Hotel in Cusco
Tourist Bus
04:30 – 05:00
Ollantaytambo Station
06:30
Ollantaytambo Station
Peru Rail Train
06:40 – 07:22
Aguas Calientes
08:40
Return Time: Approximate arrival in Cusco: 21:30 hrs.
Boarding Point
Service
Departure
Destination
Arrival
Aguas Calientes Station
Peru Rail Train
16:22 – 18:20
Ollantaytambo
20:05
Ollantaytambo Station
Tourist Bus
20:20
Cusco City Center
22:30
🟩 Itinerary – Inca Rail Option
Pick-up time: Between 03:50 and 04:20 AM from your hotel in Cusco.
Boarding Point
Service
Departure
Destination
Arrival
Hotel in Cusco
Tourist Bus
03:50 – 04:20
Ollantaytambo Station
06:20
Ollantaytambo Station
Inca Rail Train
06:10 – 06:40
Aguas Calientes
08:20
Return Time: Approximate arrival in Cusco: 18:30 hrs.
Boarding Point
Service
Departure
Destination
Arrival
Aguas Calientes Station
Inca Rail Train
14:00 – 14:30
Ollantaytambo
16:30
Ollantaytambo Station
Tourist Bus
16:30
Cusco City Center
18:30
📌 Important Notes
All schedules are subject to change based on train availability and entrance times to Machu Picchu.
If you prefer to return earlier, we offer return options between 14:30 and 14:50, arriving in Cusco around 18:00.
Train ticket times are linked to your Machu Picchu entrance slot, so we strongly recommend booking the Machu Picchu Tour 1 Day in advance.
Highlights of the Machu Picchu Tour 1 Day
One-Day Machu Picchu Tour: Experience the iconic Inca citadel on a full-day guided tour, perfect for travelers with limited time.
Train Journey through the Sacred Valley: Enjoy a scenic train ride from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, passing through Peru’s breathtaking landscapes.
Professional English-Speaking Guide: Learn about Peru’s history and Inca civilization during a 2.5 to 3-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu.
Access to Machu Picchu Archaeological Park: Includes entrance tickets to explore the UNESCO World Heritage site, with options to walk circuits 1 or 2 within the Inca citadel.
Convenient Bus Transfers: Round-trip bus transportation between Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town) and the archaeological site ensures a comfortable visit.
Perfect for Cusco Travelers: Ideal for visitors who want to explore Machu Picchu without trekking the Inca Trail, Salkantay Trek, or Inca Jungle.
Secure Your Spot in Advance: Due to limited entry permits and train availability, booking your Machu Picchu tour 1 day early is highly recommended.
Included
What Is Included in the Machu Picchu Tour?
Hotel Pickup: We will pick you up from your hotel approximately 20 minutes before our bus departs from Cusco to the train station, ensuring a smooth start to your journey.
Tourist Transportation: We provide comfortable tourist transportation from Cusco city to the train station—either Poroy or Ollantaytambo—and the return trip from the train station back to Cusco.
Train Ticket to Machu Picchu: Your Machu Picchu Tour 1 Day includes a ticket for either the Expedition or Vistadome train, both tourist-class services. Departure times will be scheduled according to your Machu Picchu entrance ticket.
Entrance Ticket to Machu Picchu: Enjoy access to the main entrance of Machu Picchu, allowing you to explore the iconic citadel on either Circuit 1 or Circuit 2.
Professional English-Speaking Guide: A knowledgeable, professional English-speaking guide will lead you on a detailed 2.5 to 3-hour tour of Machu Picchu, sharing fascinating insights about the history and culture of the site.
Bus Ticket Within Machu Picchu: Included is the round-trip bus service (CONSETTUR) between Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo).
No Included
Machu Picchu mountain entrance US$70.00 dollars
Huaynapicchu Mountain entrance US$70.00 dollars.
Meals: breadfast, lunch, dinner.
Panoramic train: Vistadome or 360° train additional US$80.00 per person.
Additional private tour guide.
Ask for our private guide services in French, German, Portuguese, Italian, Japanese and Chinese.
Recommendations for the Machu Picchu full day tour
Book in advance: Machu Picchu has a limited number of daily visitors. We highly recommend booking early to secure your entrance and train tickets.
Schedules are subject to availability: Departure and return times may vary depending on ticket and train availability. We will confirm exact times at the moment of booking.
Bring your original passport: A valid passport is required to board the train and enter Machu Picchu. Don’t forget it on the day of your tour.
Pack light: Bring only the essentials: sunscreen, insect repellent, water, a light jacket, and a camera. Avoid carrying large or heavy items.
Unpredictable weather: Weather in Machu Picchu can change quickly. Even on sunny days, rain is possible. Bring a rain poncho or waterproof clothing.
Altitude adjustment: If you’ve just arrived in Cusco, it’s best to acclimate for at least one day before the tour to avoid altitude sickness.
Machu Picchu Tour 1 Day – Pricing
Choose your preferred train service and enjoy a full-day adventure to one of the most iconic destinations in Peru. All prices include transportation, train tickets, entrance fees, and guided tour.
Shared tours Services
Group Size
Price (Total)
Adult
$309.00 USD
Student (with valid ISIC card)
$289.00 USD
Child (3–10 years)
$269.00 USD
Private services
Contact us for a special group rate 💬
✔️ Private tours include the same full service as group tours, plus more personalized attention and flexibility in timing.
Payment and Booking Terms
Tickets: All train and Machu Picchu entrance tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable once issued.
Booking: A 30% deposit is required to confirm your reservation. The balance must be paid at least 15 days before the tour date.
Changes: Modifications must be requested at least 10 days in advance and may incur additional fees.
Cancellations:
More than 30 days in advance: partial refund (minus ticket fees).
Less than 07 days or no-show: no refund.
Delays & Force Majeure: We are not responsible for delays or cancellations caused by weather, strikes, or other force majeure events.
Traveler Responsibility: It is your responsibility to provide accurate passport information for ticket issuance and to be on time for all scheduled departures.
⚠️ Important: For bookings made within 45 days of the travel date or for last-minute reservations, please check availability with us before making any payment.
Why Choose Aremika Expeditions as Your Travel Agency in Cusco – Peru?
At Aremika Expeditions, we don’t just organize tours—we create unforgettable journeys. Based in Cusco, Peru, we are a local travel agency specializing in adventure, cultural, and tailor-made experiences throughout the Andean region. Our mission is to provide authentic, safe, and high-quality service for every traveler who dreams of exploring the wonders of Peru.
With years of experience in the tourism industry, we know every corner of the Andes and understand what real travelers are looking for. Whether you’re hiking the Inca Trail, exploring the remote beauty of the Choquequirao trek, or visiting iconic places like Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, or the Sacred Valley, we are here to guide you every step of the way.
Local Experts, Authentic Experiences:
We’re a Cusco-based team with deep roots in the Andes. Our local knowledge means you get more than just a tour — you get an insider’s perspective on Inca culture, hidden gems, and real connections with local communities.
Small Groups, Big Memories
We believe in quality over quantity. Our small group sizes (max. 20 people) allow for a more personal, comfortable, and flexible experience — no rushing, no crowds.
Passionate, Bilingual Guides
Our professional guides are not only fluent in English and Spanish — they’re passionate storytellers who bring Peru’s ancient history and living culture to life.
Comfort & Safety First
From our well-maintained vehicles to our attention to altitude and pacing, we prioritize your well-being. You’ll travel in comfort, with every detail handled by professionals.
All-Inclusive, No Hidden Fees
We include everything you need for the day — transportation, entrances, a delicious buffet lunch, and expert guiding — so you can just relax and enjoy the journey.
Committed to Responsible Tourism
We support local artisans, use sustainable practices, and aim to preserve the natural and cultural heritage of the Sacred Valley for future generations.
Frequently Asked Questions – Cusco 3 Days Tour
Can I really learn about Peru’s history and the Inca culture with the Machu Picchu Tour, or do I need to hike the Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek?
Absolutely. The Machu Picchu Tour includes a professionally guided tour of the Inca citadel, where you’ll learn about Peru’s history, the achievements of the Inca civilization, and the spiritual significance of the site. While treks like the Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek offer a deeper immersive experience, this day tour still provides valuable insight without the physical challenge.
What’s the difference between the Machu Picchu Tour 1 Day and other routes like the Inca Trail or Inca Jungle?
The Machu Picchu Tour is perfect for travelers who want a comfortable, non-trekking option. You’ll travel by bus and train from Cusco, making it ideal for those short on time. In contrast, the Inca Trail and Inca Jungle are multi-day adventure treks that involve hiking, camping, and exploring remote Inca sites along the way to Machu Picchu.
Does the Machu Picchu Tour 1 Day start directly from Cusco, and do I need to acclimate before the trip?
Yes, the tour starts from Cusco, with transportation provided to Ollantaytambo and then by train to Machu Picchu. While acclimatization isn’t strictly necessary for this tour since there’s no hiking involved, we do recommend spending at least one night in Cusco before your trip to adjust to the altitude and enjoy other nearby Peru trips.
Can I combine the Machu picchu tour from Cusco with other adventures like the Salkantay Trek, Inca Trail, or Sacred Valley tours?
Definitely! Many travelers use the Machu Picchu Tour as part of a larger itinerary in Peru. You can easily combine it with multi-day treks like the Salkantay Trek or Inca Trail, or cultural experiences like the Sacred Valley tour. It’s a flexible option that fits well into any Peru adventure.
How long does the Machu Picchu 1 day tour take?
Approximately 16 hours round-trip from Cusco.
Can I upgrade my train to Vistadome?
Yes, for an additional fee. Contact us during booking.
Is lunch included?
No, but you’ll have time to enjoy local restaurants in Aguas Calientes.
Book Your Machu Picchu Full Day Tour Now
Spaces are limited! Reserve your Machu Picchu 1 Day Tour by Train today and enjoy a seamless experience with Aremika Expeditions.
Duration
Tour type
Difficulty
Guide
Group size
Maximum altitude