Experience a once-in-a-lifetime Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco. Travel by train from the Andes into the lush Cloud Forest, where dramatic landscapes and the rushing Urubamba River set the stage for your adventure. Arriving at Machu Picchu, step into history as your expert guide reveals the secrets behind the architecture, culture, and daily life of this legendary citadel.
This small group Machu Picchu day trip is available every day and offers a perfect mix of breathtaking scenery, rich storytelling, and authentic discovery, ideal for travelers who want to make the most of their time in Peru. Dare to discover Machu Picchu without worrying about a thing!
Machu Picchu Day Trip from Cusco with TreXperience
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure on this Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco. Begin your journey early in the morning with a scenic train ride through the breathtaking Andes, passing snow‑capped peaks, traditional villages, and the lush cloud forest. As you approach Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), the gateway to Machu Picchu, the excitement builds.
Upon arrival, a professional guide will lead you through the majestic archaeological site, exploring its temples, terraces, and mysterious stone structures. Discover the legends behind the “Lost City of the Incas,” one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
This full-day tour offers the perfect balance of adventure and culture—ideal for travelers who want to witness the magic of Machu Picchu in a single day. If you're short on time, this Machu Picchu day trip is an incredible way to connect with Peru’s rich past while enjoying stunning natural landscapes.
Return to Cusco in the evening with memories that will last a lifetime.
Join us on this expedition from Cusco or the Sacred Valley and visit this ancient city, abandoned in the early 16th century.
Tour Highlights:
- Enjoy this Machu Picchu Day Trip from Cusco in a small group.
- Door‑to‑door service: pick‑up and drop‑off at your hotel.
- Admire the stunning scenery on the train journey to Machu Picchu.
- Visit one of the New 7 Wonders of the World.
- Expert tour guides accompany you through the Machu Picchu citadel.
Machu Picchu Full Day Tour at a Glance
- We’ll pick you up from your hotel in Cusco around 4:00 AM and drive to the Ollantaytambo train station in the Sacred Valley aboard comfortable tourist transport with other enthusiastic travelers like you. If you’re staying in the Sacred Valley, don’t worry—we’ll pick you up there too.
- The train ride is a beautiful 1.5‑hour journey along the Sacred Valley.
- Upon arrival in the charming town of Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), your tour guide will meet you and accompany you on the bus up to the Machu Picchu citadel.
- Upon entering the Inca citadel, the magic begins. Our guided visit lasts about 2–3 hours, following Circuit 2 (Classic), which includes some of the most beautiful areas of the citadel—observatories, enclosures, temples, and the central sector.
- After the tour, take the bus back to Aguas Calientes. You’ll have free time for lunch or to relax before your train.
- Then, board the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a comfortable transfer to Cusco in tourist transportation.
- You’ll arrive in Cusco around 7:30 PM.
Train schedules and the assigned circuit in Machu Picchu depend on availability at the time of booking. If tickets for Machu Picchu Circuit 2 are sold out, we will secure tickets for Circuit 1 or 3. We strongly recommend booking as early as possible—entrance tickets are first‑come, first‑served, and the best circuits and schedules sell out first.
Included
- Pick‑up from your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley
- Round‑trip ground transportation
- Train to Machu Picchu Pueblo (Expedition or Voyager)
- Round‑trip bus between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- Return train from Machu Picchu to Ollantaytambo (Expedition or Voyager)
- Bus back to Cusco and transfer to your hotel (drop‑off included)
- Professional English‑speaking tour guide
Not Included
- Meals
- Travel insurance
Extra Upgrades and Hikes You Can Do After Machu Picchu
- Panoramic trains (Vistadome or 360°).
- Private Tour (Your tour guide travels with you from Cusco and back). Contact us for more details.
- Huayna Picchu Mountain - $68 per person (2‑hour round‑trip).
- Machu Picchu Mountain - $68 per person (3‑hour round‑trip).
You can only hike one of these mountains, and it is done after the guided tour in Machu Picchu. Advance booking is required for both hikes.
Why book with TreXperience?
- Local Expert: Get the best prices and service with a 100% Peruvian company.
- Expert Tour Guides: Our guides are professionals and fluent in English.
- Want more? We also offer the Private Machu Picchu Tour with Observatory Train.
Full Itinerary of the Machu Picchu Day Trip
For the Full‑Day Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco, we recommend arriving a few days in advance to acclimatize and staying at a hotel near the historic center for easy pick‑up.
On this memorable day, we’ll pick you up from your hotel around 4:00 AM. If you’re staying in the Sacred Valley, pick‑ups run between 6:00 and 7:00 AM. Enjoy a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley to the Ollantaytambo train station, where you’ll board the train to Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes).
The train ride lasts about 1.5 hours, passing breathtaking landscapes from the high Andes into the lush cloud forest.
Upon arrival at Aguas Calientes, your TreXperience guide will be waiting to meet you and walk you to the official CONSETTUR shuttle. Enjoy a scenic 30‑minute ride up to the entrance of the Machu Picchu Archaeological Park.
Next, you’ll arrive at the main gate of Machu Picchu around 10:00 AM, ready for an unforgettable experience. Please bring your original passport and entry ticket.
Inside the citadel, enjoy an exclusive TreXperience tour with our expert guide for approximately 2–3 hours. We follow Circuit 2 (Classic), taking in the best viewpoints, the Guardhouse, terraces, temples, palaces, and the heart of the citadel. We’ll pause at the iconic photo spots so you can capture—and savor—the views.
After the tour, your guide will assist you in boarding the shuttle back to Aguas Calientes. Depending on your train time, enjoy lunch on your own, stroll the craft markets, or visit the hot springs. In the afternoon, board the train back to Ollantaytambo (about 1.5 hours), where our transport will be waiting to take you back to Cusco.
After an additional 2-hour drive, we’ll drop you at your hotel in Cusco, typically between 7:30 and 8:00 PM. Staying in the Sacred Valley? We’ll drop you there, too.
Looking for a panoramic experience? Consider upgrading to a Vistadome or 360° train for larger windows, onboard entertainment, and extra comfort.
Please note: pick‑up and drop‑off times may vary based on your confirmed train schedule. If Circuit 2 tickets are sold out, we’ll secure the best available alternative—Circuit 1 or Circuit 3. To lock in your preferred circuit and times, we highly recommend booking as early as possible; tickets are limited and sell out on a first‑come, first‑served basis.
Price for Machu Picchu Full Day Trip
We operate small-group tours to keep your experience personal and immersive. Traveling with a big party or prefer something exclusive? We also offer private Machu Picchu day trips—contact us today and we’ll share the best tour options and design the perfect itinerary to fit your dates, pace, and interests.
Price per person
- From US$290 – Adults
- From US$ 260 – Children & Students
Upgrade to the Vistadome Train
US$35 (one way, per person)
Booking and payment
To book the Machu Picchu Day Trip from Cusco, you must make an initial payment of US$200 per person. The balance can be paid online or at our office in Cusco using a credit card, PayPal, or wire transfer. Contact us for alternative payment options.
Student Discount
- US$30 off (per person)
Applies to travelers under 17 and students under 25 with a valid university ID. To receive the discount, the ID must include:
- Student name, photo, and university name.
- A valid expiration date (expired IDs are not accepted).
- ISIC cards are not accepted.
The discount is applied automatically for children. For students, please submit a copy of your student ID when booking; if your ID is not accepted, the adult rate will apply.
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What to Bring for Your Machu Picchu Day Trip
For this Machu Picchu day trip, wear comfortable hiking clothing and pack smart. Early mornings in Cusco can be cold, but temperatures rise as you reach the cloud forest. Dress in layers and carry a small daypack for snacks, water, a light jacket, and other essentials.
Essentials
Packing the essentials will keep your visit comfortable and memorable.
- Passport or ID: Bring your original passport (or valid ID, if applicable) to enter Machu Picchu
- Machu Picchu ticket: We will provide this on the tour day
- Valid student card (if booked as a student): Must be issued by your university and valid up to age 25; it must show the university name, your full name, your photo, and an expiration date no later than December 31 of the year of travel
- Backpack: A daypack up to 25 liters works best; if yours is larger, pack it light—otherwise you may be asked to store it in the lockers at the entrance
- Insect repellent: Mosquitoes can be present in the cloud forest
Clothing and gear
- A good pair of waterproof hiking shoes or boots
- Underwear and socks – preferably moisture‑wicking
- Moisture‑wicking t‑shirt
- Fleece or warm layer
- Quick‑dry trekking pants made from lightweight fabric
- Lightweight, waterproof jacket
- Comfortable, packable hat or cap
Accessories and extras
- Water bottle: Bring a refillable bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day
- Sun protection: Sunscreen and sunglasses (a brimmed hat also helps)
- Snacks: Energy bars or light snacks for the visit
- Camera/phone: Capture the views and memories
- Cash: There are no ATMs inside the citadel; some vendors may not accept cards (ATMs are available in Aguas Calientes)
Prohibited items at Machu Picchu
To travel comfortably and responsibly, please avoid bringing the following:
- Trekking poles with metal tips, tripods, umbrellas, parasols, or any sharp objects that could damage stone surfaces
- Bulky or heavy clothing: Opt for lightweight, breathable layers suitable for a warm, humid climate
- Large bags or suitcases: Trains and buses have size limits; use a small backpack or daypack
- Single‑use plastics: Choose reusable items, such as a refillable bottle
- Drones: Not permitted and may be confiscated
- Illegal substances: Prohibited by law and strictly enforced
Overall, pack light, respect local regulations, and protect the environment. If you’re unsure what to bring, our team is happy to provide personalized packing advice when you book.
Machu Picchu Day Trip - Travel Info
You've booked your Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco and are ready to go...but what should you pack? Don't worry; we've got you covered. Here are some travel details and useful tips for Machu Picchu. So please sit back, relax, and let us help you prepare for the trip of a lifetime!
Circuits visited on this Tour
This Machu Picchu Tour follows Circuit 2, which takes you to the Citadel's most complete side and important buildings, including the observatory, the temples, the houses, the Sacred Rock, the Temple of the Condor, and more. If Circuit 2 isn't available, you will be offered an alternative that fits your schedule. Please note that Circuits are subject to availability depending on the season and visitor demand.
For more details about the different circuits in Machu Picchu, check out our Machu Picchu Tickets Guide.
Map of Circuit 2 in Machu Picchu
Tips for visiting Machu Picchu
- Arrive early - aim to arrive at Machu Picchu as early as possible to avoid the crowds. The gates open at 6 am, so if you can get there then or soon after, you'll have a much better experience.
- Hire a tour company - unless you want to explore the site alone, we recommend hiring a tour company with a guide. They'll be able to bring the ruins to life and tell you all sorts of interesting stories and facts about what you're seeing.
- Allow plenty of time - because there's so much to see at Machu Picchu
- Dress appropriately - although it can be hot during the day, it gets cold once the sun goes down, so pack some warm clothes for the evening.
Machu Picchu Day Trip from Cusco FAQs
Looking for an adventure while in Cusco, Peru? Why not consider a day trip to the iconic Machu Picchu? Located just a few hours away from Cusco by train, Machu Picchu is one of Peru's most popular tourist destinations. And for a good reason - it's simply breathtaking.
What is Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu is an ancient Inca site in the Andes Mountains of Peru. The site is situated on a mountain ridge above the Urubamba River valley and consists of numerous buildings and temples. The most famous structure at Machu Picchu is the Intihuatana Stone, an ancient sun clock.
Machu Picchu was built in the 15th century and was later abandoned after the Spanish conquest of the Inca Empire. The site was rediscovered in 1911 by American explorer Hiram Bingham. Today, Machu Picchu is one of Peru's top tourist attractions and receives over 2 million visitors yearly.
What's the weather like in Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu is located in the Southern Hemisphere and, as such, experiences weather patterns different from those of the Northern Hemisphere. The average temperature in Machu Picchu is 20° Celsius (68° Fahrenheit), with an average high of 22° C (72° F) and an average low of 17° C (64° F).
However, Machu Picchu is located in the Andes Mountains, so temperatures vary depending on altitude. The higher you are in the mountains, the cooler it will be. For example, at the summit of Huayna Picchu, the average temperature is about 7° C (46° F). Rain is also common in Machu Picchu, especially from November to March.
What's the weather like in Cusco?
Cusco is a city in Peru that experiences a variety of weather patterns throughout the year. The city is located in the Andes Mountains, which can make the weather unpredictable. However, Cusco's climate is generally mild, with average temperatures ranging from 15° C to 20° C.
The rainy season in Cusco usually lasts from November to March, with January and February being the wettest months. During this time, it is not uncommon for the city to receive up to 300 mm of rainfall. This can cause flooding and mudslides, so it is essential to be aware of the weather conditions before traveling to Cusco during this time.
From April to October, Cusco experiences its dry season. This is the best time to visit the city as the weather is more stable and there is less chance of rain. However, it is still advisable to pack a raincoat even during the dry season, as showers can occur. Overall, Cusco has pleasant weather conditions, making it an excellent destination all year round.
How to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco?
There are a few different ways to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco.
- The most popular way is to take the train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes and then a bus to Machu Picchu. This is the easiest and most comfortable way to get there.
- Another option is to hike the Inca Trail. This is a more challenging option but also a lot more rewarding. The hike takes about four days, and you will camp along the way. On the fourth day, you will reach Machu Picchu.
- If you are feeling adventurous, you can take an alternative hike to Machu Picchu, such as the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. This is a more challenging route, so you will need to be in good physical condition.
No matter how you choose to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco, it will be a fantastic experience.
What to see in Machu Picchu?
There are many things to see in Machu Picchu, but here are some of the highlights:
- The Temple of the Sun: This is one of the most iconic structures in Machu Picchu and is worth a visit.
- The Inka's House: Another must-see in Machu Picchu, located in the center of the citadel.
- The Inca Bridge: Located in the upper section, currently closed to the public.
- The Intihuatana Stone: This stone is located in the central plaza of Machu Picchu and is thought to have been used by the Incas for astronomical purposes.
- The temple of the Condor: located in the lower part of Machu Picchu.
Where to stay in Cusco before the Machu Picchu day trip?
There are a few things to consider when choosing where to stay in Cusco before your trip to Machu Picchu.
- Firstly, Cusco is a large city, and Machu Picchu day trips start very early, so staying in the city center is a good option. However, if you prefer to avoid the hustle and bustle of the city, there are plenty of hotels and hostels located in the quieter suburbs of Cusco.
- Another thing to consider is whether you want to stay in a hotel or a hostel. Hostels are a good option if you're traveling on a budget and want to meet other travelers. However, you may not have the same level of comfort as a hotel. A hotel may be better if you want a more luxurious experience.
- Finally, it is essential to consider your personal preferences when choosing where to stay in Cusco. Do you prefer being close to the city center or being in a quieter area? Do you mind spending a little extra money on a hotel, or would you like the value of a hostel? Consider all of these factors when making your decision and choose the option that is best for you.
What are the best Machu Picchu tours by train?
There are several ways to get to Machu Picchu by train:
Full-day trip to Machu Picchu: A day trip to Machu Picchu from Cusco is the perfect way to see this world-famous Inca site in a short time. The trip includes round-trip transportation from Cusco, a guided tour of the ruins, and plenty of time to explore on your own.
Overnight trip to Machu Picchu: This 2-day tour takes you from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, where you'll take a scenic ride through the valley to Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, you'll check into your hotel. The next day, you will explore Machu Picchu and return to Cusco.
Sacred Valley + Machu Picchu: are two of Peru's most popular tourist destinations. While the Sacred Valley is home to many Inca ruins, including the well-known site of Pisac, Machu Picchu is the country's most famous ruin and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Combine these 2 excellent sites in just 2 days.
Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu: This 4-day trip will start with exploring Cusco, where you will learn about the Inca culture and see some of the most impressive ruins in the area. From Cusco, you will head to the Sacred Valley to explore more ruins, hike through stunning scenery, and visit traditional villages. Finally, you will end your trip with a visit to Machu Picchu, one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world.
What are the best trains for the Machu Picchu day trip?
A few trains go from Cusco to Machu Picchu, but the PeruRail Expedition and Vistadome trains are the best options. There is also another company, IncaRail. However, this one has fewer trains departing every day.
The best train for a Machu Picchu day trip is the early morning train from 6.00 am to 9.00 am. These trains depart from Ollantaytambo. To return, we recommend taking the 3-4 pm train to Ollantaytambo and then the bus back to Cusco.
What is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu is one of the Seven Wonders of the World and a must-see destination for anyone traveling to Peru. But with only a limited number of visitors allowed per day, it's important to plan your trip carefully. So when is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?
The answer depends on what you're looking for in your trip. If you want to avoid the crowds, the best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the shoulder seasons of April-May and September-October. These months see fewer tourists than the peak summer months, so you'll have a more intimate experience of this amazing site. However, be aware that weather conditions can be unpredictable during these times, so come prepared for rain or cold temperatures.
If you're looking for ideal weather conditions, the best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season of June-August. You'll enjoy clear skies and warm days, making it perfect for exploring all Machu Picchu offers. However, this is also the busiest time of year, so expect large crowds.
No matter when you visit Machu Picchu, it's sure to be an unforgettable experience. Just remember to plan and prepare for whatever Mother Nature has in store!
Is this tour safe for children?
Yes, this tour is safe for children. Our experienced guides will take care of your children and ensure they have a great time.
How long in advance should I book?
If you're planning a day trip to Machu Picchu from Cusco, it's best to book at least a few days in advance. This will give you enough time to arrange transportation and accommodation and some flexibility in case of any changes or cancellations.
Can you pick us up from the Sacred Valley?
We can pick you up from the Sacred Valley and take you to Machu Picchu! The Sacred Valley is home to some of the most stunning scenery and is one of Peru's most popular tourist destinations. Just make sure to book a hotel with easy access and located near the train station, like Ollantaytambo and Urubamba.
I'm staying at an Airbnb. Can you still pick us up?
Yes, we can still pick you up from your Airbnb rental! You will just need to provide the rental address and the host number. Please note that our Machu Picchu day trip includes transportation from Cusco to Machu Picchu, so you won't need to worry about getting there on your own.