Machu Picchu Overnight Tour for 2 days by train is the perfect way to explore the amazing UNESCO World Heritage Site. You'll board the bus and train from Cusco and travel through the stunning Sacred Valley of the Incas, arriving at Aguas Calientes in time to explore the town, visit the hot springs, or take a short hike. The next day, you will explore the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu and return to Cusco.
Machu Picchu Overnight Tour Overview
This Machu Picchu Overnight Tour by train takes you on a captivating bus and train ride from Cusco to Machu Picchu Pueblo. Dive deep into the history of this iconic 15th-century Inca fortress, understanding its intricate architecture, rich history, and the daily lives of its inhabitants.
On the first day of the tour, you'll embark on a bus & train journey from Cusco to Aguas Calientes. This approximately 4-hour ride offers you ample opportunity to soak in the mesmerizing scenery en route. Arriving in Aguas Calientes by the afternoon, you'll check into your hotel, after which you can either explore the town or unwind in your room.
Rise and shine early on the second day to catch the first bus to Machu Picchu. Spend your day marveling at one of the world's most breathtaking archaeological wonders: Machu Picchu. In the afternoon, board the bus back to Aguas Calientes and then catch the Expedition train that will take you back to Ollantaytambo and a van back to Cusco.
Tour Highlights:
- Small-group tours ensure personalized service.
- A comfortable way to visit Machu Picchu.
- Door-to-door service: Start and finish at your hotel.
Machu Picchu Overnight Tour at a Glance:
Day 1: Cusco – Aguas Calientes
- Take a scenic bus and train ride from Cusco to Aguas Calientes.
- Enjoy breathtaking views of the Andes Mountains and the Urubamba River.
- Check into your hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- Enjoy free time exploring the town, visiting the hot springs, and shopping for souvenirs.
Day 2: Machu Picchu – Cusco
- Wake up early and board a bus to Machu Picchu.
- Witness the sunrise over the citadel.
- Embark on a guided tour in Machu Picchu Citadel
- Enjoy free time to explore Machu Picchu at your own pace.
- Board the bus back to Aguas Calientes.
- Take the Expedition train to Ollantaytambo and the bus to Cusco
Included
- Pick-up and drop-off to and from your hotel
- All Transportation Included from hotel to hotel
- Round - trip Expedition train
- Hotel in Aguas Calientes (3-star hotel)
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- Bus tickets to Machu Picchu
- Guided tour in Machu Picchu
- Professional tour guide
- Door-to-door service
Not Included
- Huayna Picchu Mountain
- Machu Picchu Montaña
- Meals
- Travel Insurance: Strongly recommended
Optional hikes after the Guided tour in Machu Picchu
- Huayna Picchu Mountain – The walk takes 2 hours round trip. The cost is US$ 68 per person.
- Machu Picchu Mountain – The hike takes 3 hours round trip. The cost is US$ 68 per person.
Full itinerary of the Machu Picchu Overnight Tour
Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
At 7:00 a.m., a representative of the TreXperience team will come to your hotel in Cusco City, pick you up, and take you to the San Pedro train station in Cusco, where you will board the Expedition train to Aguas Calientes. The journey from the heights of Cusco to the cloud forest where Machu Picchu is located is about 5 hours.
During the rainy season, from January to the end of April, all tours will depart from Ollantaytambo; in this case, the pick-up will be from your hotel at 8:00 am and travel to the train station in Ollantaytambo, from where you will board the expedition train to Aguas Calientes. This itinerary also applies when the trains from Cusco are sold out. Possible train stations are San Pedro, Poroy, or Ollantaytambo.
During the trip from Cusco, you will enjoy the views of the city as you exit through the highest mountains. You will enjoy the views of the plains of Anta, Pomatales Canyon, and Ollantaytambo as you follow the Urubamba River snaking its way to Aguas Calientes (Also called Machu Picchu Pueblo).
You will arrive in Aguas Calientes town around 12:00 pm and transfer to the hotel to check-in. Later in the afternoon, you can explore the city on your own and take optional hikes to the Machu Picchu Museum, the butterfly station, or the Mandor Gardens. You can also relax in the town and visit the hot springs of Aguas Calientes.
You will have dinner on your own in the evening and rest early for the next day's tour in Machu Picchu. The hotel is included; we work with selected hotels in Aguas Calientes town, such as Qoya Palace, Susanna Inn or similar.
- Pick from Hotel
- Train ticket Included
- Meals: Not Included
- Hotel: Qoya Palace or Similar
Day 2: Machu Picchu Tour – Return to Cusco
Wake up early and enjoy a delicious breakfast at your hotel. After breakfast, you will meet your tour guide, board one of the first buses to Machu Picchu, and arrive at the main gate of the great citadel. To enter Machu Picchu, you must present your entry tickets and original passport.
You will have a comprehensive guided tour lasting around 3 hours, exploring the best of the Machu Picchu citadel. Explore the terraces, the Guardhouse, the viewpoint, temples, and palaces. Afterward, you will have free time to explore on your own or hike the extra mountains: Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain (both optional, not included).
After your visit to Machu Picchu, you will take the bus back to Aguas Calientes town. There, you can have lunch, explore the city, and shop. In the late afternoon, you will board the Expedition train for a 1.5-hour journey to Ollantaytambo, followed by a private van to Cusco. You should arrive back at your hotel in Cusco around 7:00 p.m.
- Entrance to Machu Picchu included
- Meals: Breakfast at the hotel; others not Included
- Train tickets: Expedition Train to return
- Tour Guide: Professional guide
Price for the Machu Picchu Overnight Tour
Group Tour Price:
- From US$ 360 - Adults
- From US$ 320 - Children and students
To book the Machu Picchu Overnight tour, you need to make an initial payment of US$ 200 per person; the remaining balance can be paid online or at our office in Cusco in cash or any credit card.
Student Discount:
- US$ 40 off
All travelers under 17 have a $30 discount. If you are 25 years old or under when traveling, you can get the discount with your Student ID. Please send us an email to receive a code for the discount.
Valid Student ID
To get the student discount, travelers should have a Valid ID with the following:
- 25 years or less at the time of entering Machu Picchu. Older than 25 can not enter as a student
- The ID must have the Name of the university, name, and photo of the student
- The ID must have a valid expiration date
Invalid Student IDs
Student IDs are not eligible for a discount when:
- Traveler is older than 25
- Expired ID
- Student ID without expiration date
- ISIC cards are not valid.
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Machu Picchu Overnight Packing List
During this 2-day Machu Picchu tour, you will travel mostly by train and bus to Machu Picchu. You need to pack very light in a small carry-on and have a comfortable daypack as well.
Essentials:
Below is a list of items that you need to have for the Machu Picchu tour.
- Daypack: A comfortable daypack for hiking in Machu Picchu.
- Passport: Make sure to bring your original passport.
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: You will be doing a lot of walking on day 2.
- Rain jacket or poncho: Pack a rain jacket or poncho.
- Sunscreen and Sunglasses: The sun can be intense in the cloud forest.
- Insect Repellent: There may be mosquitos and other insects in the area
- Camera: You will want to capture the amazing views and scenery during your tour.
- Cash: Bring cash in small denominations to pay for souvenirs, food, and any other expenses during your trip.
- Medications: If you have any prescription medications, make sure to bring enough for the duration of your trip.
- Snacks and water: Pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and energized during your journey.
In your carry-on:
Your carry-on must stay in the hotel on day 2 during the Machu Picchu tour. Make sure you check out and store in the lockers before you board the buses to Machu Picchu.
- Clothes for 2 days: Take light clothes for warm weather and cold weather
- Warm Clothing: Bring a fleece jacket or a sweater.
- Personal care items: Pack a small toiletry bag with travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, and toothbrush.
- Electronics: Bring your phone, camera, and other electronics you may need, along with chargers and adapters if necessary.
- Travel pillow: A travel pillow can make your journey more comfortable.
- Reading materials: Bring a book or e-reader, magazines, or any other reading material to keep yourself entertained during the journey.
Remember to pack light as you carry your luggage during the trip. Most hotels in Aguas Calientes will store your larger luggage while you explore Machu Picchu.
Tour to Machu Picchu 2 Days FAQs
You want to go to Machu Picchu, but only have 2 days? Here is a suggested way to make the most of your trip without feeling rushed and with some frequently asked questions that will help you prepare.
What is Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu is a 15th-century Inca citadel located in the Eastern Cordillera of southern Peru on a 2,430-metre (7,970 ft) mountain ridge. It is one of the World's New Seven Wonders and was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. The Inca emperor Pachacuti built the site and later abandoned it after the Spanish Conquest in the 16th century.
How to get to Machu Picchu?
The best way to get to Machu Picchu is by hiking the Classic Inca Trail. The Inca Trail is a 4-day trek that leads you through the stunning Andes Mountains and culminates at the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu. Along the way, you'll pass through pristine rainforests, small villages, and incredible archaeological sites. The Inca Trail is an amazing experience and something that everyone should do at least once in their lifetime.
If you're not up for the Classic Inca Trail, the train is the best way to get to Machu Picchu. You can take the train from Cusco train station, Poroy, or Ollantaytambo train station. Getting to Machu Picchu is an unforgettable experience, whichever you choose.
What are the opening hours in Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu is open every day from 6 am to 5 pm. The entry times are divided by hours: 6. am, 7. am, 8. am, 9. am, 10. am 11. am 12. pm, 13. pm, 14. pm. Travelers can spend around 2 hours only in Machu Picchu and enter at the designated time.
What are the circuits in Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu is divided into different circuits, each with its unique features. The most famous circuit is Circuit 2 and the Inca Trail circuit, which leads visitors through a number of ruins and scenic views. Other famous circuits include the Huayna Picchu trail, which offers views of the surrounding mountains, and the Temple of the Sun trail, which takes visitors past some of the most important religious sites in Machu Picchu. Whichever circuit you choose, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience at this amazing archaeological site.
- Circuit 1: This circuit is divided into three routes: Machu Picchu Mountain, the Sun Gate, and the Upper Terrace. The Upper Terrace gives you access to the main observatory for the classic Machu Picchu views. However, it does not allow access to the main archaeological site.
- Circuit 2: The longest circuit in Machu Picchu, it takes you to the most important buildings, including the viewpoints, the Main Plaza, the Temple of the Sun, the Palace of the Inca, the water fountains, and the mirrors, among others.
- Circuit 3: This circuit explores the lower area of Machu Picchu. Depending on the route you choose, you can climb Huayna Picchu Mountain, the Great Cavern, and Huchuy Picchu Mountain. This circuit is also included in the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu tickets.
What is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?
There is no best time to visit Machu Picchu, as the Inca citadel is beautiful at any time of year. However, the weather varies throughout the year, so depending on your preferences, you may want to plan your trip for a certain time. The dry season (May to September) is the best time to visit Machu Picchu, as there is less chance of rain interrupting your plans. However, this is also the busiest time of year, so you may want to avoid peak season if you prefer a more relaxed experience.
The shoulder seasons (April and October) can also be a good time to visit Machu Picchu, as the weather is still fairly dry, and crowds are not as large as they are during peak season. Keep in mind that April can be wetter than October, so if you're planning a trip during this time, be sure to check the forecast in advance.
If you don't mind some rain and want to avoid the crowds, the wet season (November to March) can be a great time to visit Machu Picchu. Just be sure to pack your rain gear and have flexible plans in case of bad weather.
How much does it cost to enter Machu Picchu?
The cost of entry to Machu Picchu is $50 USD for adults and $25 USD for students. If you want to buy Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain, the cost is 75$ per person.
What are some other things to do near Machu Picchu?
There are plenty of other things to do near Machu Picchu! Here are just a few ideas:
- Visit the Sacred Valley of the Incas. This valley is full of Incan ruins, traditional villages, and stunning scenery.
- Hike the Inca Trail. This classic trek takes you through some of Peru's most beautiful landscapes, culminating in a visit to Machu Picchu.
- Explore Cusco. This city was once the capital of the Inca Empire and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are plenty of Inca ruins to visit and traditional markets and plazas.
- Lake Titicaca. This massive lake is located on the border of Peru and Bolivia and is home to several floating islands inhabited by indigenous people.
How long in advance do you need to arrive in Cusco for the tour to Machu Picchu?
You should arrive in Cusco at least 2 days before your Machu Picchu tour. This will give you time to acclimatize to the high altitude and avoid any issues with altitude sickness. Arriving a day or two early also allows you to explore the city of Cusco and visit some of the nearby ruins, like Sacsayhuaman and Q'enko.
Where to stay before the tour to Machu Picchu?
There are several options for where to stay before the tour to Machu Picchu.
The first option is to stay in Cusco, which is the closest city to the main city and airport to Machu Picchu. Cusco is a beautiful city with a lot of history and culture. It is also a good place to acclimate to the altitude before heading to Machu Picchu.
Another option is to stay in Ollantaytambo, located in the Sacred Valley and near the train station.
Where to stay after the Machu Picchu tour?
After your Machu Picchu tour, you should return to Cusco; any tours around Cusco will depart from the city; also, if you need to travel to other regions, you need to board the buses, trains, and flights from Cusco city.
Can I store my luggage in Cusco?
If you're planning on spending a few days in Cusco before or after your Machu Picchu tour, you might be wondering what to do with your luggage. Here are a few options for storing your luggage in Cusco:
- You can store your luggage at the hotel where you're staying. Most hotels will have a luggage storage area where you can leave your bags for a fee.
- You can also store your luggage with us; we do not charge for this service.