MACHU PICCHU DAY TOUR

TRIP FACTS:

• LOCATION: Cusco, Peru
• STARTING & ENDING POINT: Cusco Hotel.
• DURATION: 1 full day
• AVAILABILITY: All Year Long
• LANGUAGE: English – Spanish.
• CUSTOMIZABLE: Yes
• DEPARTURE DATES: Daily Departure group service and private service.
• TYPE OF TOUR: Cultural and History.
• TRANSPORT: bus and train.
• TRAIN OPTIONS: Expedition Option: This is the cheapest, but still a very comfortable way of get to Machu Picchu.
• VISTADOME OPTION: Vistadome train is faster, has snack-service, bigger windows and is generally a more comfortable experience; if you prefer this service the let us to know at the time of booking (Extra US$70pp).

SHORT ITINERARY.

Machu Picchu Day Tour:

Your Machu Picchu adventure begins with transportation from your hotel in either Cusco or the Sacred Valley, including Pisac, Calca, Urubamba, or Ollantaytambo, to the train station. The primary station used is Ollantaytambo, which is approximately a 1.45-hour car ride from the city of Cusco.

Train Journey:

Sit back and relax on a comfortable and panoramic train departing from Ollantaytambo, usually around 6:10 or 6:40 am. During the approximately 1.5-hour journey, take in the breathtaking views of the Andean landscapes and the Urubamba River that await you on your Machu Picchu tour.

Aguas Calientes:

Upon arrival in the town of Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, our guide from Machu Picchu Reservations will be there to greet you before boarding the bus to the Inca city of Machu Picchu.

Ascent to Machu Picchu:

From Aguas Calientes, enjoy a short and scenic bus ride of about 30 minutes to the main entrance of Machu Picchu, offering majestic views of the valley and surrounding mountains.

Guided Tour in Machu Picchu:

Step into the fascinating citadel as an expert guide takes you through the main points of interest, unraveling the history, architecture, and mysteries surrounding this enigmatic place. The tour typically lasts around 2.5 hours and covers the circuit included in your Machu Picchu ticket, usually circuit 02. Find more information here.

Free Time:

While free time in Machu Picchu is limited to about 30 minutes, the maximum allowed time being 3 hours including the 2.5-hour tour, you’ll have an additional 30 minutes to explore and capture memorable photographs at your own pace.

Return to Aguas Calientes:

After exploring the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, descend back to Aguas Calientes by bus, a journey of approximately 25 minutes. Take the opportunity to further explore the charming town of Aguas Calientes, savor a meal, and immerse yourself in the surroundings before your return journey.

Return Train Journey:

Depart aboard the return train to Ollantaytambo, scheduled for 2:30 or 3:20 pm, which will bring you back from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo in approximately 1.5 hours. Once there, transportation will be ready to transfer you back to your hotel.

Arrival in Cusco/Sacred Valley:

Finally, you’ll arrive at your hotel, whether in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, as part of our full-day Machu Picchu tour by train, with drop-off service included.

Please Note: Train schedules may change according to availability.

TOUR ITINERARY – MACHU PICCHU DAY TOUR

Machu Picchu Day Tour Itinerary: A Comprehensive Expedition from Cusco to Machu Picchu via Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes

Sacred sites of pilgrimage and transformation such as “Machu Picchu” have always played a significant role in the evolution of humanity by helping to awaken us to remember who we are and why we are here.  Now, these places of power and grace are calling to us with even more urgency as we move toward a time singled out by many great civilizations of the past as a major turning point in human and earth evolution.

Early Morning Start:

Kick off your adventure with an early morning pickup between 4:00 and 4:15 AM from your hotel in Cusco. Let us know at WhatsApp number +51 984 734633 if you’re in the Sacred Valley for pickup scheduling. A designated vehicle from SPT Travel & Tours will arrive to collect you. Be ready and waiting at your hotel or Airbnb’s reception. You’ll enjoy a comfortable ride through the captivating Andean landscapes for approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to reach the Ollantaytambo train station.

Train to Aguas Calientes:

Once you arrive, our driver will assist you in boarding the train departing at either 6:10 AM or 6:40 AM, heading to the charming town of Aguas Calientes. This 1.5-hour train journey treats you to stunning views of the Urubamba River and the surrounding rugged terrain.

Welcoming at Aguas Calientes:

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu, our guide will be waiting for you with a sign that reads “SPT Travel & Tours” or your specific names. After a brief introduction and key instructions, enjoy 20 to 30 minutes of personal time to grab a coffee, snacks, or visit the restroom.

Ascent to Machu Picchu by Bus:

Get in line for the bus that will take you on a winding 30-minute climb to the main entrance of Machu Picchu, estimated arrival between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM.

Guided Exploration of Machu Picchu:

Your journey includes a Machu Picchu ticket, usually granting access via circuit 02 or 01, subject to availability. In case of unavailability, circuits 04 or 03 will be used as alternatives. We recommend booking in advance to secure your preferred route. Once inside, our guide will lead a 2.5-hour insightful excursion through the Inca citadel, highlighting key monuments, sharing stories, and providing plenty of opportunities for you to soak in the views and capture memories.

Return to Aguas Calientes:

After exploring the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, you’ll descend back to Aguas Calientes by bus, which takes about 25 minutes. There, you can take your time to explore the town of Aguas Calientes.

Leisure Time in Aguas Calientes:

After the tour, head back to Aguas Calientes by bus and enjoy some downtime to savor a meal and wander around the town before heading to the train station.

Return Journey to Cusco: The return voyage to Cusco forms the final leg of your Machu Picchu day tour.

The Price for Machu Picchu Day Tour Includes:

• Transportation from your Cusco Hotel to Train Station and from the Train Station to your Cusco Hotel
• Round-trip train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and back to Cusco
• Machu Picchu Guided tour by a professional, experienced guide licensed in Tourism (Spanish /English)
• Bus tickets round-trip from Aguas Calientes town up to Machu Picchu
• Entrence tickets to Machu Picchu Inca citadel
• Permanent assistance

Excluded.

• Meals
• Drinks
• Snacks
• Tips
• Transfer from airport – hotel – airport,

What do you need to bring for Machu Picchu Day tour?

• Small backpack (20 or 30 liters)
• Your passport! You cannot enter without it!
• Your Train ticket and the entrance to Machu Picchu
• Some money for a passport stamp (s/1), the toilet (S/2) and for souvenirs you may want to buy or for lunch at the restaurant (expensive).
• Camera
• Good walking shoes.
• Water.
• A lunchbox and some snacks.
• Sunscreen and rain gear depending on the weather.

Things that you should NOT bring to Machu Picchu

• The Tripods are not allowed to the historical site. You can leave yours in the lockers outside.
• Professional cameras are not allowed. Permits for professional cameras are over $300 so avoid bringing a professional looking camera in.
• You cannot come to Machu Picchu with your travel backpack. Only smaller models are allowed so leave your backpack in your hotel
• Walking sticks are not allowed unless the person needs them.

Travel Guide About Machu Picchu Tour.

Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the most significant archaeological icons in the world. Located high in the Andean mountains of Peru, this well-preserved Incan city offers a unique window into the past. Its intricate stone constructions, thought to date back to the 15th century, are a testament to Incan engineering ingenuity and aesthetic sensibility. With its breathtaking vistas and profound historical significance, Machu Picchu stands as a monument to the complexity and sophistication of pre-Columbian societies.

Machu Picchu History:

The history of Machu Picchu is shrouded in mystery and intrigue. It is believed to have been constructed around 1450 by the Incan emperor Pachacuti, but was abruptly abandoned just over a century later, during the Spanish Conquest. The Spanish never discovered this hidden city, thus it escaped destruction – a fate that befell many other Incan sites. For centuries, Machu Picchu lay forgotten, its existence known only to local Quechua farmers. It wasn’t until 1911, when American historian Hiram Bingham was led to the site, that Machu Picchu was revealed to the world. Today, it’s not only a major tourist destination but also a vital link to the rich cultural heritage of the Inca civilization.

Getting There:

Reaching Machu Picchu can be an adventure in itself, often forming a part of the overall experience. The most common way to get to Machu Picchu is via a train ride from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, the town located at the base of Machu Picchu. From Aguas Calientes, frequent buses run up the winding road to the archaeological site. For the more adventurous, the four-day Inca Trail offers a chance to trek through stunning Andean scenery, culminating in a magical sunrise view over Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate. Regardless of how one chooses to arrive, the journey to this spectacular historical monument is sure to be a memorable one.

Machu Picchu Weather.

Machu Picchu experiences a subtropical highland climate with two distinct seasons – the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season, from May to October, offers clear skies and a lower risk of rain, making it the ideal time for tourists to explore the ancient ruins. Daytime temperatures during this time range from 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C). The rainy season, from November to April, brings heavy showers, with January and February being the wettest months. Despite the rain, the site remains open, and the lush vegetation during this season adds a unique beauty to the landscape. The average temperature throughout the year varies from 52°F to 75°F (11°C to 24°C), so layered clothing is recommended to adapt to the changing conditions.

When to Go:

The best time to visit Machu Picchu depends largely on personal preferences. If you prefer a quieter experience, the months of November to March might be best. This is the rainy season, which deters some tourists, but the showers can often be brief and the site is less crowded during this time. The dry season, from April to October, offers the best weather conditions, but it also coincides with peak tourism, so expect larger crowds. No matter when you choose to visit, the mystical charm of Machu Picchu never fails to captivate its visitors.

Where to Stay:

When planning a visit to Machu Picchu, there are a variety of accommodation options to choose from, all offering different levels of comfort and proximity to the archaeological site. For those who want to stay as close as possible, the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge is the only hotel located directly at the entrance of Machu Picchu. If you’re looking for something a bit more budget-friendly, the town of Aguas Calientes hosts a range of hotels and guesthouses. From luxury hotels such as the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, which boasts lush gardens and a traditional Andean spa, to more economical options like El MaPi, there’s an accommodation to fit every traveler’s needs. Regardless of where you choose to stay, the mystical allure of nearby Machu Picchu will surely enhance your lodging experience.

Things to Do:

Visiting Machu Picchu offers a plethora of activities beyond simply exploring the ancient city itself. For an adventurous trek, consider ascending Huayna Picchu, the towering mountain overlooking the site, offering unparalleled views. However, due to its steep trail, it’s best tackled by those in good physical condition. Alternatively, the Sun Gate hike provides a more leisurely option with equally stunning vistas. Intrepid explorers might also enjoy a trip to the Inca Bridge, a marvel of ancient engineering. In Aguas Calientes, you can explore local markets for unique souvenirs or relax in the town’s hot springs after a busy day of exploration. Regardless of your interests, Machu Picchu and its surrounding regions present an array of experiences sure to captivate any traveler.

Important sites to visit in Machu Picchu:

Machu Picchu is home to several significant sites that offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Inca civilization. The Intihuatana Stone, often referred to as a “hitching post for the sun,” is an essential Inca ceremonial stone associated with their astronomic clock or calendar. The Temple of the Sun, a semi-circular structure that overlooks the sacred Urubamba River, was used for religious and astronomical purposes. The Room of Three Windows, a significant architectural feature located in the Royal Sector, offers insight into the Inca’s solar worship. Another fascinating site is the Temple of the Condor, where the natural rock formation has been carved to resemble a condor in flight. Each of these sites provide unique perspectives into the Inca civilization and are not to be missed when visiting Machu Picchu.

In addition to the historical and cultural significance of Machu Picchu, the site also offers stunning natural beauty. The surrounding mountains, lush green valleys, and winding rivers all contribute to the breathtaking scenery. It’s no wonder that Machu Picchu is often referred to as one of the most beautiful places in the world.

Food and Drink:

Machu Picchu and the surrounding region also offer a delightful culinary experience. Peru is known for its rich gastronomy, and local restaurants serve up a variety of dishes that highlight the country’s diverse and flavorful ingredients. Visitors should not miss out on trying delicacies like Ceviche, a raw fish salad marinated in citrus juices, or Lomo Saltado, a savory stir-fry combining marinated strips of sirloin, onions, tomatoes, and french fries, served with rice. For the daring foodie, Cuy, or guinea pig, is a traditional Andean delicacy worth tasting. Pair that with a glass of Chicha Morada, a sweet beverage made from purple corn, or a Pisco Sour, Peru’s national drink and you have yourself a quintessential Peruvian meal.

The Incredible biodiversity of Machu Picchu:

Machu Picchu and the surrounding Peruvian Andes are not just culturally rich but also biologically diverse. Home to a myriad of unique species, the area is a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. From the iconic Andean condor soaring above the mountains to the smallest orchid hiding in the densest forest, the biodiversity is remarkable. The cloud forests around Machu Picchu are teeming with a variety of birds, mammals, reptiles and insects. Beyond the wildlife, the region is renowned for its diverse plant life, with hundreds of types of orchids and medicinal plants that the Incas used centuries ago. This rich biodiversity plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of the planet and makes a trip to Machu Picchu an unforgettable exploration of nature’s bounty.

Safety:

While Peru is a fascinating destination, ensuring safety during your visit is paramount. Travelers are advised to stay updated on local weather conditions, particularly when planning to hike in the Andes, as weather can be unpredictable and may affect trail conditions. Avoid isolated areas, especially after dark, and always keep your personal belongings secure. Vaccinations for diseases such as yellow fever and typhoid are recommended before traveling to Peru. Additionally, altitude sickness is a common issue for visitors in high-altitude areas like Machu Picchu, so it’s advisable to spend a few days at a lower elevation to acclimate, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous activity upon arrival. Always adhere to local laws and respect cultural customs for a safe and enjoyable trip.