Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco
299 usd
- Cusco - Valle SAGRADO - Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes - MACHU PICCHU - CUSCO
Machu Picchu Tour full day
Discover Machu Picchu in one day with an unforgettable tour that combines history, nature and comfort. Travel by panoramic train through the majestic Sacred Valley, enjoy a guided tour of the most iconic points of the Inca citadel (Circuit 2), and contemplate spectacular views from the Guardian’s House. Ideal for those who have little time but do not want to miss the magic of one of the wonders of the world, this all-inclusive tour provides transportation, entrance fees and the best guided experience. Experience Machu Picchu at its best in just one day!
Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco
Summary
Cusco - Ollantaytambo - Aguas calientes - Machu Picchu
Full-Day Tour to Machu Picchu – Itinerary
04:30 hrs – Transfer from your hotel in Cusco to the train station in Ollantaytambo.
06:10 hrs – Departure by train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (the town of Machu Picchu).
08:00 hrs – Arrival at Aguas Calientes. Assistance provided to board the bus up to the Machu Picchu citadel.
10:00 hrs – Guided tour of Machu Picchu begins via Circuit 2. (Time may vary depending on ticket availability.)
12:30 hrs – End of the guided visit to the Inca citadel.
13:00 hrs – Optional lunch at a quality restaurant in Aguas Calientes.
18:30 hrs – Return train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
20:10 hrs approx. – Private transfer from Ollantaytambo back to your hotel in Cusco.
22:00 hrs – Estimated arrival at your hotel in Cusco.
Extra hikes after the guided tour in Machu Picchu:
- Huayna Picchu Mountain – 65 US$ per person: You can climb the mountain
Huayna Picchu for incredible views. The trip takes 2 hours
round trip, and you need to book well in advance. - Machu Picchu Mountain Hike – 65 US$ per person: This is the
highest mountain in Machu Picchu. The hike is round trip and takes
three hours.
Full-Day Machu Picchu Tour Itinerary
01
Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu
We begin this exciting day early, around 4:00 a.m., with pick-up from your accommodation in Cusco. From there, we travel in a tourist vehicle to the train station in Ollantaytambo.
At the station, you’ll board a scenic train to Aguas Calientes, enjoying stunning views of the Andean mountains and cloud forest. Along the way, you can capture amazing photos and videos of snow-capped peaks, lush green hills, farmland, and ancient Inca agricultural terraces.
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, our team will assist you in boarding the bus that will take you to the entrance of the Machu Picchu citadel. Once inside, you’ll begin a guided tour of approximately 2 hours, visiting the most iconic areas of the sanctuary. You’ll learn about Inca history and culture while exploring temples, plazas, and viewpoints that offer unforgettable panoramic views.
If you booked in advance, you’ll also have the option to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (ticket not included in the tour).
After the visit, you’ll return to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have free time to enjoy lunch, walk around the town, or shop for souvenirs before boarding the train back.
In the afternoon, you’ll take the train to Ollantaytambo, where our private transport will be waiting to drive you back to Cusco, dropping you off at your accommodation by evening.
Included
Permits and Entry Tickets
Machu Picchu Entrance Ticket (Circuit 2-A: Classic Route)
Includes the official admission ticket to the Machu Picchu archaeological site with access to Circuit 2-A or 2-B, ideal for those who wish to explore the most iconic landmarks.
Note: To secure your spot on Circuit 2-A or 2-B, we recommend booking several months in advance, especially during the high season.
Pre-Tour Briefing
Join our comprehensive pre-departure briefing at 6:00 p.m. the day before your tour at the NICKEY TRAVEL office.
Can’t attend in person? No problem. Contact us via WhatsApp at +51 958 362 905 to schedule a virtual briefing with your guide.
We kindly ask you to get in touch at least 48 hours before departure to coordinate your personalized session.
Professional Tour Guides
All our tours are led by certified bilingual guides (English and Spanish).
Our NICKEY TRAVEL guides hold official government licenses and have graduated from recognized tourism institutes in Peru, ensuring a high-quality and informative experience.
Each guide is trained in first aid and CPR, and carries a first aid kit with supplies to treat common issues such as altitude sickness, traveler’s diarrhea, and minor injuries.
In emergency situations, we arrange immediate evacuation to the nearest medical center.
24/7 Customer Support
Our WhatsApp and local phone support is available 24 hours a day.
In case of emergency, our guides are equipped to contact our office using satellite phones.
Transportation
Hotel pick-up and transfer to the train station in Ollantaytambo.
Round-trip bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
Private transport from the train station back to your hotel in Cusco after your visit.
Train Tickets
Outbound: Ollantaytambo ➝ Aguas Calientes
Return: Aguas Calientes ➝ Ollantaytambo
Not Included
Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
Travel insurance (we highly recommend arranging it on your own)
What to bring on the tour
Passport: Essential for Machu Picchu entry, train tickets, and official checkpoints. Without it, you cannot access the site.
Daypack: Lightweight and comfortable, with enough space for water, snacks, camera, and personal items.
Jacket: Perfect for sudden changes in Andean weather – it can be hot at noon and cold in the evening.
Comfortable trekking shoes: With good grip for walking safely on uneven or wet trails.
Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from strong UV rays at high altitude.
Water: Stay hydrated at all times. A reusable water bottle is highly recommended.
Insect repellent: Essential in humid areas near the jungle where mosquitos are common.
Cash: In Peruvian soles, for souvenirs, snacks, or any extra expenses.
Hat or cap: To shield yourself from direct sunlight during the hike.
Machu Picchu Tour Prices & Discounts
Price per Person
$299USD per person
The Machu Picchu Tour is available on any date of the year, as long as there is a minimum of 2 travelers.
Private Service
Available for an additional $50 USD per person.
Includes all the benefits of the group service with personalized attention.
Group Size
Small and exclusive groups.
Average: 5 people per group.
Maximum: 8 passengers per departure.
Special Discounts
| Category | Discount | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Students (18 to 25 years old) | $20 USD | Valid university student card copy (must show university name, student’s full name, photo, and expiration date). Government approval required. |
| Under 18 years old | $20 USD | Copy of passport at the time of booking. |
| Children under 11 years old | $30 USD | Copy of passport at the time of booking. |
Important Notes
Discounts are only valid with official documents provided at the time of booking.
Prices are final and include all tickets, permits, and full services.
Important Info
Schedule – Machu Picchu 1 Day Tour
Enjoy Machu Picchu in one full day with Nickey Travel, in a small group of up to 8 people!
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 04:00 am | Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco and transfer to Ollantaytambo train station. |
| 06:10 am | Departure by Expedition Train. Enjoy spectacular views of the Vilcanota River along the way. |
| 07:30 am | Arrival at Aguas Calientes. Your guide meets you at the station and takes you on a 30-minute shuttle bus ride up to Machu Picchu. |
| 08:00 am – 11:00 am | Guided tour of Machu Picchu Citadel (approx. 3 hours). Visit the most important temples, plazas, and viewpoints. |
| 11:00 am – 12:30 pm | Free time to explore and take photos at your own pace. |
| 12:30 pm – 1:00 pm | Shuttle bus back to Aguas Calientes town. Opportunity to enjoy lunch (not included). |
| 03:20 pm / 04:22 pm / 04:43 pm / 06:20 pm | Return to Ollantaytambo by Expedition Train (time depends on availability & booking). |
| 07:00 pm – 09:00 pm | Arrival in Cusco. Transfer back to your hotel. |
Important Notes
The return train schedule depends on availability and how early you book.
Hiking Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain is not possible with a one-day tour due to time restrictions.
Groups are small, averaging 5–8 travelers, for a more personalized experience.
Frequent Asked Questions About Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco
What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 4:00 a.m. with hotel pick-up in Cusco. From there, we head to the train station in Ollantaytambo.
Which circuit of Machu Picchu is visited?
This tour covers Circuit 2 (the classic route), which includes the most iconic sites, such as the Temple of the Sun, the Sacred Plaza, the Guard House, and more.
If this ticket is not available, the available ticket will be purchased, either Circuit 1 or Circuit 3.
Can I hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
Yes, but these hikes must be booked in advance. They are not included in the standard tour and require additional tickets, subject to availability.
How long is the guided tour inside Machu Picchu?
The guided visit lasts approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.
What time will I return to Cusco?
You will arrive back at your hotel in Cusco at approximately 6:30 p.m., after the train ride and the final transfer from Ollantaytambo.
Do I need to be in good physical condition?
Excellent fitness is not required. The tour is suitable for most people, although there are some stairs and uphill paths within Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu Tour 1 day
Book now with a small deposit and finish later.
Trip Details
- Tour Type: Group
- Duration: Full Day
- Activity: Cultural
- Group Size: 6 - 12
- Difficulty: Easy
- Languages: Spanish, English
- Distance Trip: 50 km