The Machu Picchu Full Day by Train (All-Inclusive) is the fastest way to explore the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu within a single day. If your stay in Cusco, Peru, is short on time, this option is perfect for you. You will visit the most significant areas of Machu Picchu and then have free time to explore and take photographs of the magnificent Inca city.
This one-day Machu Picchu tour departs daily from Cusco and involves an early morning departure, traveling from Cusco to Ollantaytambo by minibus, then taking the train to Aguas Calientes. Experience the Inca city of Machu Picchu by train through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, enjoying stunning views from South America’s unique tourist train.
This Machu Picchu Full Day tour will guide you through the main attractions of the Inca city, including its enigmatic temples, impressive and complex vegetation, as well as structures that have endured for thousands of years and remain a mystery to this day. The World Wonder of Machu Picchu awaits you!!!
Itinerary Summary: One-Day Train Tour to Machu Picchu
The Machu Picchu Full Day by Train tour begins from your hotel/accommodation around 3:30 / 4:10 AM, transferring you to the Ollantaytambo train station to Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes). The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. Once there, you can board the Tourist Train that will take you to Machu Picchu Pueblo. This train arrives in Machu Picchu Pueblo at 7:40 AM, and upon leaving the train station, our transfer will provide an explanatory briefing about the itinerary for Machu Picchu.
You will have time to make some last-minute purchases at the central market of Aguas Calientes, then reunite with the group at the Plaza de Armas or at the Bus Station for Machu Picchu. Once at the Inca citadel, you will have a guided tour of 2 hours to explore and discover the most notable areas of Machu Picchu.
Optional Tour: Ascent to Huayna Picchu
You can add this famous ascent to your Machu Picchu package, offering the best panorama of the grand Inca city of Machu Picchu from the top of Huayna Picchu. Subject to availability, please consult before making a reservation.
After an incredible experience visiting Machu Picchu, you will return to the town of Aguas Calientes and enjoy a nutritious lunch included in our package. You will have some free time in Aguas Calientes to explore this wonderful place. At 5:50 PM or 6:20 PM, you should be at the Aguas Calientes train station to take the return tourist train to Ollantaytambo.
Upon arrival at Ollantaytambo station, we will be waiting to transfer you by bus back to the center of Cusco.
Altitude Information:
| Location | Altitude |
| Ollantaytambo | 2,790 m (9,153 feet) |
| Aguas Calientes | 2,020 m (6,627 feet) |
| Machu Picchu | 2,430 m (7,972 feet) |
Itinerary: Machu Picchu Full Day Train Tour with PeruRail
Bus from Cusco to Ollantaytambo and PeruRail Tourist Train to Machu Picchu, Round Trip
Start: From your accommodation or hotel in the city of Cusco.
| Boarding Area | Service | Meeting / Departure Time | Destination | Arrival Time |
| From your accommodation (Cusco) | PeruRail Tourist Bus | 3:30 / 4:10 AM | Ollantaytambo Station | 5:40 AM |
| Ollantaytambo Station | PeruRail Tourist Train | 5:40 / 6:10 AM | Aguas Calientes Town | 7:40 AM |
| End Point: | Arrive at the center of Cusco around 10:30 PM |
Itinerary: Machu Picchu Full Day Train Tour with IncaRail
Bus from Cusco to Ollantaytambo and IncaRail Tourist Train to Machu Picchu, Round Trip
Start: From your accommodation or hotel in the city of Cusco.
| Boarding Area | Service | Meeting / Departure Time | Destination | Arrival Time |
| From your accommodation (Cusco) | IncaRail Tourist Bus | 4:00 / 4:40 AM | Ollantaytambo Station | 6:10 AM |
| Ollantaytambo Station | IncaRail Tourist Train | 6:10 / 6:40 AM | Aguas Calientes Town | 8:10 AM |
| End Point: | Arrive at the center of Cusco around 11:00 PM |
Pricing: Machu Picchu Full Day Tour (All-Inclusive + Tourist Train and Private Guide)
Bus and Tourist Train PeruRail / IncaRail to Aguas Calientes, Professional Guide, Entrance Fees, Meals, All-Inclusive!!
| Package | Category | Type | Price | Reservations |
| Machu Picchu 1 Day | Tourist | Mode | Price | Reservation Link |
| Full Day Train Machu Picchu | Foreign | Adult | 310.00 USD | Buy |
| Full Day Train Machu Picchu | Foreign | University Student or Minor | 290.00 USD | Buy |
| Full Day Train Machu Picchu | CAN (Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia) | Adult | 290.00 USD | Buy |
| Full Day Train Machu Picchu | CAN (Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia) | University Student or Minor | 280.00 USD | Buy |
Important Notice:
Discounts for each mode are effective only if conditions are met. Information will be provided via WhatsApp and email to the main contact.
The group service is an excellent option for solo travelers or small groups looking to meet new people while sharing a fantastic experience. This service operates on a fixed itinerary with a professional guide who will lead the entire group. It includes shared transportation and a guided tour within the citadel, making it a cost-effective and social way to visit Machu Picchu.
| Service Description | Price per Person |
|---|---|
| Full-Day Machu Picchu Group Tour | $315.00 USD |
A private tour offers the ultimate flexibility and a personalized experience. This all-inclusive service is tailored to your pace and interests, with a private guide dedicated exclusively to your party. Enjoy the convenience of private transportation and the freedom to explore Machu Picchu more intimately, ask all your questions, and spend more time at the sites that capture your interest the most.
| Number of People | Price per Person (All-Inclusive) |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | $595.00 USD |
| 2 People | $480.00 USD |
| 3 People | $445.00 USD |
| 4 People | $415.00 USD |
| 5+ People | $390.00 USD |
Enhance your journey with these upgrades designed to make your visit to Machu Picchu even more memorable. Each upgrade offers a unique benefit, from panoramic train views to exclusive dining experiences and challenging hikes with rewarding vistas.
We offer special pricing for students and minors to make this experience more accessible. Proper identification is required to secure these discounts.
The standard tour includes a tourist-class train (PeruRail Expedition or Inca Rail Voyager). You can upgrade to a superior class for a more comfortable and scenic journey.
This train features spectacular panoramic windows on the walls and roof, making you feel part of the stunning landscape. It offers onboard snacks, non-alcoholic drinks, and a greater level of comfort. The additional cost is for upgrading from the standard Expedition service.
Similar to the Vistadome, this train has tall, panoramic windows and an outdoor observation carriage. It includes onboard service with a selection of hot and cold drinks and Andean snacks. The additional cost is for upgrading from the standard Voyager service.
As per regulations from Peru’s Ministry of Culture, entrance to Machu Picchu is organized into specific circuits to manage visitor flow and preserve the site. Our tour typically includes the most comprehensive circuit available at the time of booking, which is usually Circuit 2.
These hikes require an additional entrance ticket and must be booked far in advance due to a limited number of daily permits. They offer incredible alternative views of the Inca citadel.
This is the famous mountain peak seen in the background of classic Machu Picchu photos. The hike is steep and challenging, featuring narrow paths and stone steps, but it rewards you with unparalleled, close-up aerial views of the citadel.
This mountain is located on the other side of the citadel. The trail is longer and less steep than Huayna Picchu, taking you to a much higher elevation. It offers stunning, panoramic 360-degree views of Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu, and the surrounding mountains.
Important Information:
Documents for Traveling to Peru and Visiting Machu Picchu:
To qualify for the student discount on Inca Trail Permits, travelers must meet the following requirements:
Student IDs will not be accepted for the discount under the following conditions:
This information is crucial for travelers seeking to benefit from discounted permits for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
“Imperial Travel Peru” is a 100% Peruvian-owned tour operator based in Cusco, with extensive experience in hiking, adventure tours, and customized travel packages. As a completely local company, we’re dedicated to providing travelers with authentic, high-quality experiences.
Our vision as a local company is to deliver personalized travel and hiking journeys, managed exclusively by experienced local professionals, with a strong focus on HIGH-QUALITY and PERSONALIZED SERVICE.
We are proud of our reputation as a travel agency that upholds RESPONSIBLE and SUSTAINABLE practices benefiting both the environment and local communities.
We treat our team like family and ensure they receive fair wages. We are incredibly proud of each member of our team! Their dedication makes it possible for us to provide the top-notch service that our many travelers appreciate.
At “Imperial Travel Peru,” we understand that our reputation and the feedback from our travelers are essential for gaining the trust of future adventurers. You can check out honest reviews from our guests on TripAdvisor, Facebook, and Google to see why we’re a reliable choice for creating your Peruvian adventure.
To ensure a more personalized experience at “Imperial Travel Peru,” we keep our group sizes to a maximum of 8 travelers. This approach allows us to offer a tailored experience, unlike companies that operate with larger groups.
Our guides are our pride. They’re highly knowledgeable and professional, fluent in English, and deeply passionate about Inca culture and history. Each guide is committed to ongoing personal and professional development, allowing them to share accurate insights and fascinating theories about Andean heritage. They are friendly, athletic, and well-educated, with backgrounds in Archaeology, Tourism, Botany, History, or Anthropology.
Hiking with “Imperial Travel Peru” ensures a fulfilling experience. Our porters are here to make your journey comfortable and memorable. They carry your equipment, prepare meals, set up camps, and attend to your needs so you can relax and enjoy the adventure. Along the way, you’ll connect with local people, explore stunning sites, and discover historic Inca villages.
We provide our porters with essential equipment at no cost: jackets, sun hats, warm hats, shirts, pants, hiking boots, comfortable bags, canteens, back support belts, sleeping bags, mattresses, and travel insurance. Our porters come from remote communities, and by hiring them, we help improve their economic conditions and support their children’s education. We treat our porters like family!
Our team—guides, cooks, porters, muleteers—and our equipment make “Imperial Travel Peru” stand out from the competition. During our hikes, we provide:
“Imperial Travel Peru” is committed to giving back to isolated communities. We support social projects and prioritize hiring local staff.
We are proud to support local communities not only by providing employment but also by offering assistance to their families. This holistic approach benefits our employees from the Peruvian Andes and their loved ones, strengthening our connection to the local heritage.
The tour typically includes train transportation from Cusco or the Sacred Valley, entrance fees to Machu Picchu, a tour guide, and bus transportation from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of the archaeological site.
The tour usually starts very early, with departures around 4:00 or 5:00 AM, depending on the train station of departure and the type of train chosen.
The train journey from Cusco to Aguas Calientes takes between 3 and 4 hours, depending on the type of train and the departure station.
You should bring your passport, entrance tickets, water, sunscreen, insect repellent, a lightweight jacket, and comfortable clothing. Don’t forget a hat and sunglasses.
Yes, it is highly recommended to purchase entrance tickets to Machu Picchu in advance, as tickets are limited and sell out quickly, especially during high season.
Yes, it is possible to do the one-day Machu Picchu tour from Cusco. However, be prepared for a long day, as it involves several hours of train travel both ways.
There are different train options such as the Expedition, Vistadome, and the luxurious Hiram Bingham, each offering different levels of comfort and services.
Yes, Machu Picchu is open year-round, but during the rainy season (November to March), you may encounter frequent rains. Bring a raincoat and be cautious while walking.
Are meals included in the tour? Some tours include lunch in Aguas Calientes or on the return train. Check with your travel agency to see if lunch is included or if you will have time to eat on your own.
While visiting Machu Picchu is not extremely strenuous, the site has many stairs and steep paths, so it is recommended to be in moderate physical condition.
Yes, it is possible, but you must reserve your entrance in advance as spots for Huayna Picchu are limited and sell out quickly.
Trains may occasionally experience delays, especially during the rainy season. In case of a delay, your agency or the train operator should provide assistance and solutions.
Yes, the trains to Machu Picchu are very safe and comfortable, offering reliable service and a pleasant experience for travelers.
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from April to October, when the weather is more stable and travel conditions are ideal for exploring archaeological sites.
It is recommended to book your tour at least two to three months in advance, especially if you plan to travel during high season (June to August) or want to ascend Huayna Picchu.
Travel Guide: One-Day Train Tour to Machu Picchu
The one-day train tour to Machu Picchu is an incredible and comfortable experience for those who wish to explore the famous Inca citadel in a short time. Below are key recommendations to make your trip perfect, including how to dress, what to expect weather-wise, and health and physical preparation tips.
Climate in Machu Picchu
Altitude and Climatic Conditions Machu Picchu is located at an altitude of approximately 2,430 meters above sea level, meaning the climate can vary significantly during the day. Situated in a subtropical zone, the climate is humid and tends to have rains, especially during the rainy season.
Dry Season (April to October) During these months, the weather is more pleasant, with sunny days and clear skies. Daytime temperatures range between 20 and 25°C, though mornings and evenings can be cool.
Rainy Season (November to March) In the rainy season, rains are frequent, especially in the afternoons. Temperatures are similar, but humidity is much higher, making it essential to carry rain protection.
How to Dress for a One-Day Tour
Layered Clothing The weather can change quickly, so it’s best to dress in layers. Wear a lightweight t-shirt and add a sweater or jacket for cooler temperatures. A waterproof jacket is also useful if traveling during the rainy season.
Appropriate Footwear Many archaeological sites, such as Pisac and Ollantaytambo, have uneven paths and stairs. Wear comfortable shoes with good traction to avoid slips or falls.
Sun Protection and Rain Gear Even if you don’t feel very hot, the high-altitude sun can be intense. Use sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. Also, carry a raincoat or poncho, especially if visiting during the rainy season.
Tips for a Day in Machu Picchu
Purchase Tickets in Advance Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu are limited, so ensure you purchase them weeks in advance, especially during high season. This includes both the entrance ticket to the citadel and train tickets.
Arrive Early at the Station The train to Machu Picchu departs early in the morning, so it’s advisable to arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before departure. The main stations for this tour are Ollantaytambo or Poroy, depending on your departure point.
Stay Hydrated Bring a water bottle, as it is important to stay hydrated, especially at high altitude. However, remember that plastic bottles are not allowed inside the citadel.
Restrictions and Precautions
Entrance Restrictions It is prohibited to enter Machu Picchu with large backpacks, selfie sticks, or food. Only small backpacks are allowed, and you must adhere to the site’s regulations.
Respect the Heritage Machu Picchu is a protected site, so it is important to follow the rules. Do not climb or lean on Inca structures, as they are fragile and need to be preserved for future generations.
Cultural Respect In local communities, especially in Chinchero and Maras, respect customs and traditions. If you want to take photos of locals or during any cultural activity, ensure you ask for permission first.
Physical Preparation for the Machu Picchu Tour
Fitness Level The one-day train tour to Machu Picchu involves walking and climbing stairs, particularly in places like Ollantaytambo. While excellent physical condition is not required, being moderately active will help you enjoy the tour more.
Acclimatization to Altitude If you are coming from a lower altitude area, it is recommended to spend at least one or two days in Cusco to acclimate before the tour. This will help prevent altitude sickness and allow your body to adjust.
Pre-Tour Exercises Stretch your legs and back before starting the day, as the terrain can be rugged and the walks long. This will help avoid soreness or discomfort.
Health Recommendations
Prevention of Altitude Sickness To avoid symptoms like headaches, nausea, or fatigue due to altitude, drink coca tea, avoid alcohol, and move slowly, especially during the first few days in Cusco.
Basic First Aid Kit It is advisable to carry a small first aid kit with pain relievers, sunscreen, insect repellent, and any personal medications. It’s also a good idea to bring altitude sickness pills in case you need them during the tour.
Safe Eating During the tour, especially at buffet lunches, choose fresh and well-cooked foods to avoid stomach issues. Use bottled water for drinking.
At Imperial Travel Peru, we believe every journey should be as unique as the traveler. Nestled in the heart of Peru, we specialize in curating unforgettable experiences that blend ancient history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes.
