2 Day Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco

Ancient stonework of Machu Picchu showcasing Inca engineering.

Iconic view of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate.

Trekking the Inca Trail surrounded by lush mountains.

Memorable photo moment at Machu Picchu’s main viewpoint

Relaxing at the hot springs of Aguas Calientes after the hike.

Temple of the Sun – a sacred ceremonial site within Machu Picchu.

Duration2 days

TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted

LanguagesEnglish, Spanish

Group sizeUp to 10 travelers

Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below

Overview

Explore the wonders of Machu Picchu over two days with a scenic train journey from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to the iconic Inca citadel. Experience a guided tour of Machu Picchu, where you’ll uncover the history of this UNESCO World Heritage site, including highlights like the Temple of the Sun and the Intihuatana Stone. Enjoy free time to wander the ruins and soak up the spiritual atmosphere. This tour provides comfortable accommodation, expert guides, and seamless transportation for an enriching adventure.

Scenic train ride through the Sacred Valley and lush landscapes
Expert-guided tour of Machu Picchu with in-depth historical insights
Overnight accommodation in Aguas Calientes for a relaxed experience
Free time to explore the town and enjoy local cuisine

What's included

One night accommodation in Aguas Calientes
Bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu
Round trip train tickets between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes
Transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo and back.
Professional tour guide
Entrance to Machu Picchu

Tips
Meals not mentioned in the itinerary (lunches and dinners), allowing flexibility to try local cuisine.
Extra hotel nights in Cusco or Aguas Calientes, if extending your stay
Optional activities: hot springs

What to expect

Day 1: Cusco - Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes

Cusco
2h

Your journey starts early in the morning with a transfer from your hotel in Cusco to the town of Ollantaytambo. This scenic drive takes around 1.5 hours and passes through the breathtaking landscapes of the Sacred Valley. Along the way, you'll see impressive Andean mountains, green valleys, and traditional farmlands, an ideal introduction to the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region
Ollantaytambo
2h

Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, you’ll board a tourist train that travels through the picturesque Urubamba Valley. The train ride lasts about 1.5 hours and follows the river’s path as it winds through lush, mountainous terrain. With stunning views of the cloud forest and towering Andean peaks, this scenic journey perfectly sets the mood for your upcoming visit to Machu Picchu.
Aguas Calientes
10h

Once you arrive in Aguas Calientes, our local team will meet you at the station and escort you to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to explore this charming mountain town at your own pace. You might choose to soak in the relaxing hot springs, browse the artisan market for souvenirs, or enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many local or international restaurants (meals not included). In the evening, you’ll spend the night in a comfortable hotel with a private bathroom and hot water, resting up for your visit to Machu Picchu the following day.

Day 2: Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Cusco

Aguas Calientes
1h

The second day begins early with a short bus ride from the town of Aguas Calientes up to Machu Picchu. As you ascend the winding mountain road, the anticipation builds for the experience ahead. The early morning light creates a peaceful and magical atmosphere, perfect for arriving at the Inca citadel just as the first rays of sun start to touch the ancient stones.
Machupicchu
3h · Admission ticket included

Once at Machu Picchu, your expert guide will take you on a guided tour of about two hours, showing you the most important parts of the archaeological site. You'll visit sacred temples, farming terraces, ceremonial plazas, and other iconic structures, all while learning about the site's deep historical and cultural significance. After the tour, you'll have free time to explore on your own. You might choose to hike to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for sweeping views of the citadel or simply wander the ruins at your own pace, taking in the beauty and mystery of this world wonder.
Cusco
5h

In the early afternoon, you'll take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes. Here, you'll have some free time to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant or do some last-minute shopping (meals not included). Later, you'll board the train for your return journey to Ollantaytambo, enjoying final glimpses of the Urubamba Valley. Upon arrival, a private transfer will take you back to your hotel in Cusco, bringing your two-day adventure to a memorable close.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Hotel pick-up is available for travelers in Cusco’s historic center. Be ready in your lobby 10 minutes before departure. If staying outside the center, we’ll contact you to arrange a meeting point or possible pick-up. Provide accurate contact info.

End point

At the end of the tour, travelers will be dropped off at Plaza San Francisco, located in the historic center of Cusco. From there, it’s easy to walk or take a taxi to your accommodation.

Pickup details

Hotel pick-up is available for travelers in Cusco’s historic center. Be ready in your lobby 10 minutes before departure. If staying outside the center, we’ll contact you to arrange a meeting point or possible pick-up. Provide accurate contact info.

Additional information

Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Cancellation policy

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

Reviews

5.0 (1)