Machu Picchu Day Trip from Cusco

From$239
12 hours
Cusco, Peru

About this activity

Experience the wonders of Machu Picchu on a guided day trip from Cusco, including transportation, a guided tour, and lunch in Aguas Calientes.

Highlights

  • Explore the ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu
  • Marvel at the panoramic views of the Andes Mountains
  • Discover the architectural wonders of the Temple of the Sun
  • Learn about Incan history and culture from a knowledgeable guide
  • Enjoy a scenic train ride through the Sacred Valley

Full description

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu. Departing from Cusco, you'll travel through the picturesque Sacred Valley, arriving in Aguas Calientes for a delicious lunch. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, explore the architectural marvels of Machu Picchu, including the Temple of the Sun and the Intihuatana stone. Learn about the rich history and culture of the Incas as you take in breathtaking panoramic views of the Andes Mountains. This day trip offers a perfect blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty, making it an essential experience for any traveler visiting Peru.

Included / Excluded

  • Round-trip transportation from Cusco to Machu Picchu
  • Guided tour of Machu Picchu's main attractions
  • Lunch at a local restaurant in Aguas Calientes
  • Entry ticket to Machu Picchu

Itinerary

1

Pass by: Cusco Hotel Pickup and Transfer to Train Station Begin your adventure with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco, followed by a transfer to the train station.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2

Pass by: Train Journey to Aguas Calientes Enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour train ride, where you can choose between various train options, such as the Expedition, Vistadome, Executive Class 360, or Voyager, each offering unique ways to take in the beautiful landscapes. Once you arrive at Aguas Calientes station, board a small bus to begin your journey up the winding road to Machu Picchu.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
3

Discover the awe-inspiring ruins of Machu Picchu, known as the Lost City of the Incas, with its terraces, shrines, steps, and urban areas, while your expert guide walks you through the historic site. There will be time to be alone and fully embrace this magnificent wonder of the world, letting this once in a lifetime experience set in.

Duration: 3 hoursAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
4

Pass by: After your exploration, head back to Aguas Calientes station to board the train for your return trip to Cusco.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
5

Pass by: Relax and enjoy the scenic train journey back to Cusco, where your day concludes with a transfer to your hotel.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE

Important information

Know before you book

  • Ensure you have a valid passport for entry into Machu Picchu.
  • Be prepared for early morning departure from Cusco to maximize your time at the site.
  • Note that this tour does not include entry tickets to Machu Picchu; please arrange these in advance.

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
  • Bring a light jacket or sweater, as temperatures can vary throughout the day.
  • Carry a small backpack with essentials like water, snacks, and a camera.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Good to know

  • All traveler passport details are mandatory for the Machu Picchu Day Trip: Full name, Passport number, date of birth and nationality, otherwise the tour is not confirmed. VIPAC needs these information to issue the entrance fee.
  • In order to confirm your service I need you to indicate the time of your entrance to Machu Picchu.
  • Remember that, if you are a Peruvian national, you must have a valid National Identity Document (DNI) in order to be able to issue your ticket to Machu Picchu. In addition, this document must be sent through the corresponding platform and presented on the day of the visit. The system does not allow the issuance of tickets with a passport for Peruvian citizens.
  • Some hotels or lodgings are in areas where the access by vehicle is not permitted. Send hotel details in order to arrange your pickup and drop-off in a nearby place if necessary.
  • There could be a waiting time of up to 40 minutes at Machu Picchu town, depending on your shift hour entrance.
  • This tour is only considered for entrance tickets after 8am, before that time an additional fee will be charged.

Traveler reviews

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Machu Picchu one day Inca Trail Walk.

Our guide for our two days at Machu Picchu was Lizandro, he did a great job on our walk along the Inca Trail with loads of information and interesting stops. Lizandro was very attentive and made sure that we were drinking plenty water and that weren’t suffering any effects from altitude. We spent two days in total together and totally enjoyed the time we spent with Lizandro. We could highly recommend him as a guide.

JAY DMay 18, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Additional information

All traveler passport details are mandatory for the Machu Picchu Day Trip: Full name, Passport number, date of birth and nationality, otherwise the tour is not confirmed. VIPAC needs these information to issue the entrance fee. In order to confirm your service I need you to indicate the time of your entrance to Machu Picchu. Remember that, if you are a Peruvian national, you must have a valid National Identity Document (DNI) in order to be able to issue your ticket to Machu Picchu. In addition, this document must be sent through the corresponding platform and presented on the day of the visit. The system does not allow the issuance of tickets with a passport for Peruvian citizens. Some hotels or lodgings are in areas where the access by vehicle is not permitted. Send hotel details in order to arrange your pickup and drop-off in a nearby place if necessary. There could be a waiting time of up to 40 minutes at Machu Picchu town, depending on your shift hour entrance. This tour is only considered for entrance tickets after 8am, before that time an additional fee will be charged.