Machu Picchu 2D/1N by Train
Dificulty
Easy
Duration
2 Days / 1 Night
Group Size
02 - 19 people
Max Altitude
3.399. m.s.n.m
Description
Machu Picchu 2D/1N by Train is the perfect way to discover one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites with comfort and ease. Travel from Cusco to the heart of the Andes aboard a scenic train that winds through the Sacred Valley and along the majestic Urubamba River. This journey offers a breathtaking transition from highland to cloud forest, with panoramic windows that allow you to witness Peru’s diverse geography in all its splendor.
Spend one night in the charming town of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Relax in hot springs, explore local markets, or visit cultural sites before your big day. Your overnight stay allows you to take advantage of early entry tickets to Machu Picchu, avoiding crowds and capturing stunning sunrise photos from the famous viewpoints.
On day two, embark on a guided tour of Machu Picchu, the 15th-century Incan citadel that continues to awe visitors with its sophisticated architecture, astronomical alignments, and historical significance. Learn about the spiritual and strategic importance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site from expert local guides.
This Machu Picchu 2D/1N by Train tour is ideal for travelers who want a deeper and more relaxed experience—without the intensity of long treks—while still soaking in the mystique, beauty, and grandeur of ancient Peru. Whether you’re on a short holiday or looking for a comfortable cultural getaway, the Machu Picchu 2D/1N by Train package offers a perfect blend of adventure and ease.
During the first day of this incredible excursion, you will travel by train and enjoy the best panoramic views from Cusco to Aguas Calientes. Once in the small town, you will have the chance to rest, explore the village of Aguas Calientes, and relax in its hot springs.
The following day, you will wake up filled with excitement, as you will be one of the fortunate ones to enter and witness the sunrise at the majestic Machu Picchu, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983. Our guide will accompany you to uncover the secrets and mysteries of this sacred place, revealing the history and meaning behind each Inca construction. You will have plenty of time to explore the most notable corners of Machu Picchu, marvel at its architecture, and immerse yourself in the stunning surroundings. Remember to capture this moment with incredible photographs.
After this unforgettable experience, you will return to Aguas Calientes to enjoy a delicious lunch before boarding the train back to Cusco. Finally, you will reflect on everything you’ve experienced and take home lasting memories of this unique journey.
What are you waiting for? The remnants of a lost civilization intertwine with the imposing natural beauty of the Peruvian Andes, creating a unique environment eagerly awaiting your visit.
Day 1: Cusco | Ollantaytambo Train Station - Aguas Calientes.
You will begin your exciting two-day adventure when we pick you up from your hotel at the designated time and head to the Ollantaytambo train station. You will board the train at 12:55 p.m., so there’s no need to wake up early or leave at dawn. During the journey, you will pass through spectacular landscapes unique to the Sacred Valley of the Incas: mountains, rivers, agricultural terraces, and more.
After approximately an hour and a half of traveling by train along the Urubamba River, also known as the Vilcanota River, you will arrive at Aguas Calientes. Your guide will accompany you to your hotel to drop off your things. Since there are no vehicles in the area, you will need to move around on foot.
Next, enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the best restaurants in the city before exploring Aguas Calientes as you prefer. This place is located in the middle of a deep valley, and you’ll find several cafes and restaurants where you can spend some time or walk around its beautiful streets and discover its stone sculptures. We also recommend considering one of the following optional activities to enjoy your free time in Aguas Calientes:
Allcamayo Waterfalls: If you’d like to enjoy an extra walk to this incredible location, we recommend visiting the Allcamayo Waterfalls, a 30–45 minute hike from Aguas Calientes. You’ll walk through typical Cusco jungle landscapes until you reach a 30-meter high waterfall.
Hot Springs: After a stunning train ride, you can take a moment to relax in the village’s hot springs. You will find small pools of natural hot water before your excursion to Machu Picchu.
Butterfly House: The Butterfly House is easy to reach. It’s located 15 minutes from Aguas Calientes and along the same route buses take to Machu Picchu. It houses over 100 endemic species and more than 400 known species of butterflies. A fantastic place to learn about the diverse flora and fauna of the area.
Artisan Market: Located near the train station, you will find a variety of local products, including sculptures, traditional clothing, paintings, jewelry, and more.
In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner, and your guide will provide you with all the details for the big day ahead. Make sure to rest early, as you will be waking up before dawn the next day.
🍽 Meals: lunch, dinner
🏨 Accommodation: hotel
🥾 Difficulty level: easy
📉 Minimum elevation: 2,792 m / 9,160 ft
📈 Maximum elevation: 3,400 m / 11,154 ft
🛏 Accommodation elevation: 2,040 m / 6,693 ft
Día 2: Aguas Calientes | Machu Picchu - Ollantaytambo - Cusco.
Today is the day of Machu Picchu. You will need to wake up before dawn to ensure you beat the crowds and catch the first bus, which will take you on a 25-minute journey to the entrance gate of Machu Picchu.
Once at Machu Picchu, your guide will take you to a strategic point where you can observe the Inca architecture of Machu Picchu and take the best postcard photos. Then, you will begin your guided tour of the main areas of the citadel, which will last for 2 hours. Throughout this guided visit, you will learn more about the history and culture of the Inca Empire.
At the end of the tour, you will have additional free time to continue taking photos and explore the areas you haven’t yet visited. If you are interested in hiking Huayna Picchu, your guide will show you where to start this hike, which will take no more than 2 hours round trip. (This must be booked in advance as spots fill up, and there is a cost of $60 USD per person).
Machu Picchu Mountain is another hike option instead of Huayna Picchu. This hike is more challenging and takes at least 3 hours round trip (with an additional cost of $60 USD per person).
After enjoying the exceptional views of Machu Picchu, take the bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Depending on your train departure time, you may also have time to shop, do some sightseeing, or visit the museum or the hot springs.
The Expedition train will take you back to Ollantaytambo at 2:55 p.m. or 3:20 p.m., following the spectacular Urubamba River. Near Aguas Calientes, the canyon narrows, and the river has many beautiful sections of white-water rapids. Once back in Ollantaytambo, your driver will meet you at the train station to take you back to Cusco in our vehicle. You can expect to arrive at your hotel by 7:30 p.m.
🍽 Meals: breakfast
⏱ Machu Picchu visit duration: 2–3 hours
🥾 Difficulty level: easy
📍 Machu Picchu site elevation: 2,400 m / 7,874 ft
📈 Huayna Picchu Mountain elevation: 2,700 m / 8,858 ft
📈 Machu Picchu Mountain elevation: 3,000 m / 9,842 ft
Incluye
✓ INFORMATIONAL MEETING OR PHONE CALL PRIOR TO DEPARTURE
- The night before the tour, you will receive a WhatsApp phone call from your guide, who will provide you with important information about your trip. To ensure that you receive all the necessary information, it is crucial that you provide us with accurate and complete personal information.
✓ PERMITS AND ENTRANCE TICKETS
✓ ENTRY TICKET TO MACHU PICCHU ARCHEOLOGICAL SITE
The entry ticket to Machu Picchu. There are several circuits to explore the citadel, and we guarantee you the best available option at the time of your booking.
- Our first option, if available, is Circuit 2: Llaqta Machu Picchu / Classic Route 2-A, which takes you to the iconic panoramic viewpoint and allows you to explore around 70% of the citadel.
- If this circuit is not available, we will book Circuit 2-B: Lower Terrace, which also offers the classic viewpoint and access to 60% of Machu Picchu.
- To ensure you get one of these circuits, we recommend booking your tour 3 or 4 months in advance. If neither of these options is available, we will select an alternative circuit that provides access to specific areas of Machu Picchu. You can find more details about the circuits at the following link tuboleto.cultura.pe.
✓ FIELD STAFF
- Professional Guides:
Our official tour guides speak both English and Spanish and are trained and professionally certified. We select them for their experience, responsibility, their passion for exploring, and their pride in sharing our culture and history. In each experience, they will keep you safe and comfortable so you can enjoy your time without worries.
✓ ACCOMMODATION
- Hotel in Aguas Calientes:
You will spend your last night in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes with a private bathroom, hot shower, Wi-Fi, breakfast, and luggage storage included while you visit Machu Picchu.
✓ MEALS
- Day 1: Lunch and dinner in Aguas Calientes.
We offer a wide variety of dishes, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options to suit all tastes at no extra cost. - Day 2: Breakfast at the hotel.
✓ TRANSPORTATION
- Day 1: You will be picked up from your hotel in the morning and travel by private transportation to the Ollantaytambo train station.
- Day 2: Consettur Bus ticket for a round-trip from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
- Day 2: Transportation from the Ollantaytambo train station to your hotel in Cusco.
✓ TRAIN
- Day 1: Train ticket. Journey from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.
- Day 2: Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. Typically, the train departs at 14:30, 14:55, or 15:20, depending on availability. You will have time to explore the charming village of Aguas Calientes, enjoy lunch, and relax.
✓ EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT AND REMOTE MEDICAL ASSISTANCE
- First Aid Kit:
We have alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, iodine tincture, germicidal soap, cotton, gauze, bandages, medical adhesive tape, surgical gloves, painkillers for muscle and stomach pain, antipyretics. If you take prescribed medications, you can bring your own medications. - Portable Oxygen Tank.
✓ IMPORTANT: Please note that only a medical professional can write a prescription. Our guides DO NOT have the authority to prescribe treatment for clients. Throughout the hike, all medications will be administered with your consent and at your own responsibility. If you have a prescription, it is recommended that you bring your own medication(s).
No Incluye
× HUAYNA PICCHU MOUNTAIN
- The Huayna Picchu mountain is located behind the citadel and is commonly seen in images as the backdrop in every classic photo of Machu Picchu. Each day, only 400 spaces are available in 2 time slots. From 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. (200 spaces) and from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. (200 spaces). Tickets are required and sell out a few months in advance. It will take you only 45 minutes to reach the summit, and a round-trip takes approximately 2 hours. Perhaps the most surprising aspect of this hike is the 360-degree view from the summit, which overlooks the Inca ruins, the winding Wilkamayu (Urubamba) River, and the lush mountainous landscape.
Huayna Picchu Mountain: $60 USD
× MACHU PICCHU MOUNTAIN
- Machu Picchu Mountain is located on the opposite side of Huayna Picchu Mountain. It offers a panoramic view of the Machu Picchu archaeological site, Huayna Picchu mountain, Putucusi mountain, the winding Wilkamayu (Urubamba) River, the lush mountainous landscape, and the last part of the Classic Inca Trail. The hike is not particularly dangerous or difficult to complete, but it will require all your strength. The amount of time to hike up Machu Picchu Mountain depends on the individual’s fitness level and can range from 1 to 1.5 hours to climb or 2 to 3 hours (round trip).
Machu Picchu Mountain: $60 USD
- Day 1: Breakfast.
- Day 2: Lunch in Aguas Calientes and dinner in Cusco.
× CLOTHING AND PERSONAL HIKING GEAR
× TRAVEL INSURANCE
- This is not a requirement, but we always recommend that our clients purchase it in case issues arise with their flights or unexpected health problems. Please note if your travel insurance policy has altitude restrictions: some policies become void above 4,000 m / 13,123 feet.
× ADDITIONAL COSTS
- Delays beyond the control of the administration (landscapes, bad weather, itinerary modifications due to safety issues, illness, government policy changes, political instability/strikes, etc.).
✓ TIPS FOR YOUR CREW
- Tipping is a standard practice in tourism or on any Machu Picchu excursion. While we pay good salaries to all of our team members, anything extra is always welcome, especially considering the hard work they put in.
✓ Original ID or Passport
✓ Sun hat and wool hat for different temperatures
✓ Short-sleeve t-shirt
✓ Waterproof boots for your comfort, if they are rubber shoes or thick-soled shoes, that’s an excellent option
✓ Rain gear: A good raincoat, rain pants (only for the rainy season)
✓ Long pants
✓ Sunglasses
✓ Small backpack to carry water, snacks, camera, etc.
✓ 2 liters of water (there are options to buy along the route)
✓ Snacks such as apples, granola bars, candies, and chocolates
✓ Personal medical kit
✓ Cash in soles for personal expenses
✓ Toiletries
✓ Sunscreen and facial moisturizer to protect your skin
✓ Wet wipes for quick cleanups
✓ Toothbrush and toothpaste for oral hygiene
✓ Toilet paper for personal use
✓ Swimsuit and towel (if you wish to enjoy the hot springs)
✓ Camera or smartphone: Capture the memories
✓ Insect repellent
✓ Music: An iPhone or similar for entertainment
✓ Hand sanitizer: Keep clean
✓ Price per person:
- $360 USD – Adults.
- $340 USD – Children and students.
To reserve the tour to Machu Picchu, an initial payment of $180 USD per person is required. The remaining balance can be paid online or at our office in Cusco.
✓ Student Discount:
- All travelers under 17 years old receive a $20 USD discount. If you are 25 years old or younger at the time of travel, you can get the discount with your student ID. Please email us to receive a discount code.
✓ Valid Student ID for Inca Trail and Machu Picchu:
- To obtain the student discount, travelers must have a valid ID with the following information:
✓ Note about the ISIC Card:
- Although the International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is recognized in many countries, it is not accepted by the Peruvian government for student discounts at Machu Picchu. Just as a passport cannot be replaced by any other form of identification for international procedures, the student card cannot be substituted by an ISIC or any other document for discounts in Peru.
The Peruvian government’s policy is strict regarding student accreditation. It is essential to present a card that meets these criteria to be eligible for student-priced tickets, as you will be required to show the physical student card when entering Machu Picchu. If you do not meet these requirements upon arrival at Machu Picchu, there is a significant risk of being denied entry and having to pay the full ticket price, depending on availability. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure your student card meets Peruvian regulations before booking your trip to Machu Picchu as a student.
✓ Add-ons and Upgrades:
Additional services and upgrades you can include in this trip:
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: $60.00 USD
- Machu Picchu Mountain: $60.00 USD
- Vistadome Train (Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo): $70.00 USD
✓ Price Guarantee:
- Once your reservation is confirmed, we guarantee that the price will not increase, regardless of the circumstances. Therefore, before booking, make sure to read all the important information about the tour.
✓ How to Book:
- Booking the Machu Picchu tour is easy. You can reserve your spot online through our website, where our booking platform will guide you step by step. Payment for the tour can be made with any credit or debit card, and you can also pay in your home country’s currency for added convenience.
✓ Machu Picchu Tour Booking:
To reserve the Machu Picchu tour, we require a non-refundable deposit of $180 USD. This deposit secures your spot on the Machu Picchu tour and allows us to purchase your Machu Picchu tickets and train tickets, which must be purchased well in advance.
- Our booking platform provides you with the option to pay only the deposit, along with any additional options you select, or you can choose to pay the full amount of the tour in advance. If you choose to pay only the deposit, the remaining balance can be paid upon your arrival in Cusco, one day before the tour departure.
✓ Remaining Balance Payment:
- If you choose to pay only the deposit, the remaining balance must be paid upon arrival in Cusco, one day before the tour begins. The balance can be paid in soles or dollars in cash or with a card (with a 5% additional charge). You also have the option to pay online on our website with a 5% charge.
✓ Cancellation of your Reservation:
Bestreks Agency has the following policies regarding reservation cancellations: Due to the strict rules set by the Machu Picchu National Park, once a reservation is made, the space and permit acquired cannot be canceled. It is also not possible to transfer the permit to another person with a different name. The date of your permit cannot be changed. Therefore, if you cannot arrive on the scheduled date, no refunds will be made. Permits are non-refundable, and Bestreks Agency will purchase the permits as soon as your reservation confirmation is sent. If you cancel 30 or more days in advance, you will lose your first deposit but will be entitled to the tickets we have purchased for you.
- If you cancel between 2 and 3 days before your trip, it will be considered a “no-show” and you will be required to pay 100% of the total cost. You will be entitled to the entrance tickets we have purchased for you, a guided tour of Machu Picchu on the day it was originally scheduled in your itinerary, train ticket, and bus ticket.
- Events beyond our control that make any part of the trip impossible, such as strikes, protests, flight cancellations, weather conditions, or overbooking of hotels or flights. In any of these cases, we will suggest alternative arrangements (if available) to make the trip possible. Any costs associated with these alternative arrangements will be the responsibility of the traveler.
✓ Recommendations:
We strongly recommend that you fully understand all the booking and cancellation policies before making your payment to ensure that your investment is protected and that you have a seamless booking experience for your Machu Picchu excursion.
✓ Informational Meeting or Briefing:
- All informational meetings and briefings are held the evening before your trip starts at our main office in Cusco (or at your hotel) at 6:00 p.m. These meetings last approximately 30 minutes. If you are unable to attend, you will need to arrange another time by email or phone call.
✓ Balance Payment for the Hike (in Cusco):
- If you still have an outstanding balance, it must be paid one day before your hike/tour; otherwise, your trip reservation will not be confirmed. If possible, it would be greatly appreciated if you could pay the balance in cash, either in US dollars or local currency, at our Cusco office or at the briefing time. You can withdraw money from various ATMs along Avenida Sol (in either US dollars or Peruvian soles). You can also pay by credit/debit card or via IZIPAY, online or in person, but you will incur a 5% service charge issued by our payment gateway (Niubiz) and IZIPAY.
✓ Customer Pick-up:
- Please note: All pick-ups are within the city of Cusco, but we recommend booking a hotel in the historic center with a good location. Our guide or staff will confirm the pick-up time the day before the tour. Due to traffic conditions, the pick-up time may vary by 30 to 45 minutes. Cusco is an ancient city with many narrow, cobblestone streets. Some hotels and Airbnbs are located on streets with no access to transportation or on long, steep hills, which makes it difficult to transport your luggage. We strongly recommend booking accommodation with easy access.
✓ Health:
- If you have medical restrictions for any or all of the activities detailed in your reservation, please consult with your doctor regarding the risks of participating in such activities.
✓ Weather:
- Of course, the weather is unpredictable. Typically, the dry season in Cusco is from April to October, but this does not prevent rain in June or sunshine in December, so be prepared. Regardless of the month you’re hiking, make sure to have rain gear, including a waterproof jacket, pants, poncho, and waterproof gloves. Many people forget gloves, but the cold and dampness make walking very uncomfortable.
Additionally, be prepared for four seasons. Hiking in the Andes involves various microclimates, and you should be ready for them. Layers are always essential as they are easy to adjust to different temperature changes. Be prepared with a warm jacket as the nights will be cold.
✓ Altitude Sickness (Soroche) and Stomach Pain:
- For hikers coming directly to Cusco from sea level, we recommend arriving 2 days before your hike. Two of the most common health issues among tourists in Cusco are altitude sickness (Soroche) and stomach pain caused by slow digestion. Altitude sickness; some of the symptoms include headaches and nausea. There are some over-the-counter medications (pills) that help minimize the symptoms of this problem, such as Aspirin, Diamox, Soroichi Pill, Alti Vital, among others. If symptoms persist, the next step is to use oxygen. In these circumstances, we have the equipment and staff ready to assist our hikers.
- Stomach pain; it is recommended to drink 3-4 liters of water per day. Your body will need it to stay hydrated. Hot drinks, such as coca leaf tea, are especially recommended. Also, soups, vegetables, and carbohydrates (not fried or heavy foods). Sweets, chocolates, cookies, and fruits are also a good option. In general, all foods that are easy to digest. Do not drink alcohol or smoke.
- Try to sleep at least 8 hours and avoid excessive exercise. Keep your body at an appropriate temperature by wearing warm clothing to protect yourself from the cold. During altitude adaptation, there is a general rule to follow: eat only what is necessary and drink plenty of fluids.
✓ Medical Restrictions:
- Clients must inform their travel agencies of any medical restrictions they may have before the start of their trip. Some examples of medical restrictions include: allergies, special diets, any medication the client is currently taking, and health problems. In the case of severe medical restrictions, we recommend that you consult with your doctor to approve your participation in the hike. The information you send us will be very important as it will help us design a plan to ensure you have a more pleasant and worry-free trip.
✓ Lost Items:
- Please pay attention to where you leave your belongings and remember to collect everything once you leave our transportation, campsites, or restaurants. You are the sole responsible party for your belongings during the tour.
Machu Picchu is the most outstanding Inca archaeological site due to its creative urban design, the beauty of its architecture, and the fine stonework of its structures. Its planning notably took advantage of the topography of the mountaintop, transforming it into an imposing llaqta.
A proper visit to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu lasts between 2 hours and 2 hours 30 minutes. According to the new rules at Machu Picchu, the maximum time allowed to visit the Inca citadel (Circuit 1 or 2) is 2 hours 30 minutes. However, no one will require you to leave the citadel.
Machu Picchu had a special meaning for the Inca royalty. It is believed to have been a royal property where the Inca emperor and his entourage would reside temporarily. The strategic location of the site, nestled high in the mountains, provided a sense of security and isolation for the ruling elite.
The climate in Machu Picchu can vary, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 24°C. It is recommended to wear layered clothing to adapt to temperature changes throughout the day.
These are the mountains that surround the Inca Citadel. Huayna Picchu is located at 2,720 meters above sea level and offers a spectacular view of the archaeological site, as well as several Inca ruins along the way.
Machu Picchu Mountain is located at 3,082 meters above sea level and serves as another viewpoint towards the famous historic sanctuary. However, the hike to its summit is significantly less challenging than the Huayna Picchu mountain.
To trek to either of these mountains, it is necessary to purchase an additional entrance ticket well in advance. For more information, please contact your travel agent.
Machu Picchu is located at the edge of the Peruvian high jungle and the Andes, at 2,430 meters above sea level. Temperatures in this region range from 12°C to 24°C, with warm and humid weather during the day and colder temperatures at night. The climate conditions in Machu Picchu are characterized by two main seasons:
Dry Season: This is considered the coldest time of the year. It starts in May and ends in September. Sunny and bright days are expected throughout this season.
Rainy Season: This occurs between December and April, being the rainiest months of the year. However, the rainy season is expected to transition with lighter rainfall between October and December.
It is important to note that the weather conditions in this region can change drastically, so we recommend learning everything about the weather and preparing the perfect packing list before venturing to this wonder.
Yes, it is recommended to book at least 1 month in advance, especially if you wish to include access to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, as the tickets are limited.
To get to Cusco, the most common route is to take an international flight to Lima (the capital of Peru) and then take a domestic flight to Cusco. First, take a flight from your home country to Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima. Lima is the main hub for international air connections in Peru.
Once in Lima, you can take a domestic flight to Cusco. The flight from Lima to Cusco takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. Several airlines offer this route, such as LATAM, Sky Airline, and Viva Air. If you prefer not to fly, you can take a bus from Lima to Cusco. This road trip can take between 20 and 24 hours. However, flying is more recommended for comfort and time-saving.
If you are coming from nearby countries such as Chile, Argentina, Colombia, or Ecuador, you may also find direct flights to Cusco from some of their main cities, though these are not always as frequent as flights to Lima.
Any luggage that is not necessary should be left in Cusco. All hotels in Cusco are accustomed to and prepared for luggage storage. If you don’t have a place to store your luggage, you can leave it at our offices until your adventure ends. We will make sure your luggage is stored securely, so don’t worry!
To enter Machu Picchu, you must arrive at the scheduled entry time on your ticket and present your passport.
The only restrooms are located at the main entrance of the Machu Picchu citadel. There are no restrooms inside the archaeological complex.
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