When visiting Peru, many travelers have a strong desire to maximize their time in Cusco and Machu Picchu. The typical Peru tour package itinerary involves spending 3-4 days in Cusco and 1-2 days in Aguas Calientes/Machu Picchu.

Here is a breakdown of the multi-day tour itineraries commonly followed:

  1. Cusco city tour.
  2. Sacred Valley Tour.
  3. Train ride to Aguas Calientes.
  4. Guided hike to Machu Picchu.
  5. Return train ride to Cusco.

However, there are various alternatives to this 6-7 day Machu Picchu travel itinerary that one can explore. Additionally, for those who prefer a quicker visit, there are alternative options available. Let’s take a closer look at the essential outline for a Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco:

Machu Picchu Day Trip Outline:

  1. Pick up at your Cusco hotel and transfer to Ollantaytambo train station near the Sacred Valley.
  2. Train to Aguas Calientes.
  3. Machu Picchu Guided Tour.
  4. Return Train Ticket to Cusco.

As you can see, the day is filled with travel time and activities. Now, let’s delve into a more detailed itinerary for each section:

Machu Picchu Day Trip From Cusco Itinerary:

4:30 am – Hotel Pick Up: We begin the day with an early pick-up at your hotel in Cusco. The driver will be ready to pick you up around 4:30 am, and we will head to the Ollantaytambo train station, which is approximately an hour away. Make sure to bring a day pack with essential items.

6:30 am – Train to Aguas Calientes: Upon arriving at Ollantaytambo station at around 6:00 am, we will wait for the train. Depending on your package, you will board either the Expeditions, Vistadome, or Hiram Bingham Train to the small town of Aguas Calientes.

8:00 am – Arrival at Aguas Calientes and Consettur Bus Ride to Machu Picchu: Once we reach the train station in Aguas Calientes, we will proceed to the shuttle station. The walk takes about 5-10 minutes and offers glimpses of the town’s unique atmosphere. We will board a shuttle bus that will take us to Machu Picchu, providing beautiful views along the way.

8:35 am – Arrival at Machu Picchu: After a 20 to 30-minute bus ride, we will arrive at the entrance of Machu Picchu. Our bilingual tour guide will join us, and we will go through the ticket check to enter the Inca citadel. The guided tour will commence, showcasing the remarkable landmarks and attractions within Machu Picchu.

9:00 am – Machu Picchu Guided Tour: This is the highlight of the day. The guided tour of Machu Picchu lasts approximately 2 hours, allowing you to immerse yourself in the energy, history, and culture of this awe-inspiring place. Afterward, you will have free time to explore the Inca ruins at your own pace.

1:00 pm – Departure from Machu Picchu: By 1:00 pm, we will gather at the Machu Picchu entrance and start descending the mountain back to Aguas Calientes. You have the option to either hike down, which takes around 1.5 hours, or take the shuttle bus.

1:30 pm – Lunch in Aguas Calientes: After the Machu Picchu experience, it’s time to replenish your energy with a satisfying lunch in one of the restaurants in Aguas Calientes. You’ll find a variety of options, ranging from local cuisine to international favorites.

3:30 pm – Return Train to Ollantaytambo Train Station: Board the return train to Ollantaytambo, which takes about 1.5 hours. Enjoy the scenic views of the cloud forest and the Sacred Valley during the journey. The train ticket includes a snack and refreshments.

5:00 pm – Arrival at Ollantaytambo Station and Shuttle Service to Cusco: Upon arriving at Ollantaytambo train station, we will take a shuttle back to the city of Cusco, which will take approximately 1-1.5 hours. The shuttle will drop you off near the main square, concluding the day’s trip.

6:45 pm – Arrival in Cusco: The shuttle will arrive back in Cusco around 7:00 pm, near the main square.

What to Pack for Machu Picchu Day Trips: Although it’s a day trip, it’s important to pack essential items for your comfort and convenience. Some items to include in your day pack are:

  • Rain poncho (during the wet season)
  • Sunblock
  • Chapstick or lip balm
  • Hat or cap
  • Insect repellent
  • Jacket or sweater (for colder evenings)
  • Water bottle
  • Camera or good phone camera for photographs

Tips for Machu Picchu Day Trips from Cusco: To make your trip more enjoyable, here are a few tips:

  1. Skip breakfast at the hotel: Instead, have a quick breakfast on the way or wait until you reach Ollantaytambo, where you can find charming restaurants with scenic views.

  2. Consider the Vistadome train: Opt for the Vistadome train for breathtaking views of the Urubamba Valley and a more comfortable experience.

  3. Maximize time in Machu Picchu: Since it’s an express trip, it’s advisable to focus on exploring Machu Picchu rather than spending too much time in Aguas Calientes.

Tours to Cusco and Machu Picchu: When planning a trip to Cusco and Machu Picchu, it’s recommended to start in Lima and fly to Cusco. Allow 24 to 48 hours for acclimatization to the elevation. You can also explore day trips to Rainbow Mountain, the Sacred Valley, or Humantay Lake before or after your visit to Machu Picchu.

It’s essential to book your tours to Cusco and Machu Picchu in advance, especially during the dry season (late April to late August), which attracts larger crowds. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (late March, April, September, and October) for good weather with fewer tourists.

Transportation from Cusco to Machu Picchu: The most common transportation route is from Cusco to the Ollantaytambo train station, followed by a train ride to Aguas Calientes. From there, a shuttle bus takes you to the entrance of Machu Picchu. Alternatively, you can opt for multi-day hikes, such as the Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trek.

Conclusion: We hope you enjoy your Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco and consider exploring our other Peru tours. For booking inquiries or assistance from our travel advisors, please feel free to reach out to us using the contact form below.