| REVIEWS
TWe help you plan the best trip CONTACT AN ADVISOR
.jpeg)
|
Duration: |
|
Departures: |
|
Difficulty: |
|
Ideal: |
|
|
Duration: |
|
|
Departures: |
|
|
Difficulty: |
|
|
Ideal: |
Aguas calientes, Machu picchu
Embark on an unparalleled experience in one of the world's most iconic places with our Machu Picchu 1 Day Tour. This journey will take you to the imposing Lost City of the Incas, one of the modern wonders of the planet, on a tour filled with history, culture, and breathtaking scenery.
In just one day, you'll visit the ruins of Machu Picchu, a sacred site that has captivated tourists and archaeologists for centuries. With expert guides, you'll explore the enigmas of this ancient Inca city, from its majestic architecture to the mysterious terraces and temples that still preserve the heritage of a thousand-year-old civilization.
The one-day tour begins with a train journey through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, where you can appreciate stunning panoramas of the mountains and rivers that surround this area. Upon arriving in Aguas Calientes, the town located at the foot of Machu Picchu, you'll take a bus that will take you to the entrance of the archaeological site, where you will begin your exploration of one of the world's most enigmatic sites.
This tour is ideal for those who want to enjoy the Machu Picchu experience in a single day, avoiding extensive hikes. It is a perfect alternative for both those with limited time and those who want a more comfortable but equally enriching experience.
Don't miss the opportunity to visit Machu Picchu, the heart of the Inca Empire, on this intriguing one-day tour!
Cusco | Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu.
Pickup Time: 4:00 AM – We will pick you up from your hotel around this time, though it could be earlier or later depending on your train schedule and entry time. If you are staying in the Sacred Valley, your pickup will be later, as you are closer to Ollantaytambo.
After pickup, we will head to the Ollantaytambo train station by bus, where you will board the train to Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes). The train ride takes approximately 1.5 hours, offering stunning views of the towering Andes, the Cloud Forest, and the Urubamba River. There is also an option to take the train directly from Cusco (subject to availability), which takes around 3.5 hours.
Upon arriving in Aguas Calientes, your guide will be waiting at the train station.
We will reach the main entrance of Machu Picchu depending on your scheduled entry time, giving you plenty of time to enjoy this wonder of the world. Make sure to present your entrance ticket and the passport used for the reservation. Once inside, explore Machu Picchu with our exclusive guide, who will lead you on a complete tour lasting 2 to 3 hours.
After the tour, you will take the bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). You’ll have free time to visit the hot springs or simply stroll through the village, which is very walkable.
In the afternoon, it will be time to board the train back to Ollantaytambo. Upon arriving at the Ollantaytambo station, you will take the “bimodal service” bus to Cusco provided by the same train company. This journey takes about 1.5 hours. At the station (San Pedro, Wanchaq, or Av. El Sol 843), our transport will be waiting to take you to your hotel.
The estimated time of arrival at your hotel is between 7:30 and 8:30 PM, depending on train availability.
UPGRADES TO CONSIDER
Train Upgrade: For a panoramic experience, you can upgrade to the Vistadome Observatory train, which features more comfortable seating and larger windows. This option is available for either the outbound or return trip.
Trekking Add-Ons: If you want to include a trek to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain in your itinerary, note that this incurs an additional cost. The trek can be done with or without a guide and takes an estimated 3 to 4 hours, depending on your fitness level. Advanced booking is essential due to high demand.
Lunch Option: You can add lunch to your tour at the Hotel Sanctuary Lodge’s restaurant, which offers a delicious buffet near the entrance of Machu Picchu. From there, you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the landscape while savoring exquisite dishes.
The price of the Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco (1 day) includes:
The price of the Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco (1 day) does not include:
What to bring on the one-day excursion to Machu Picchu
For this trip to Machu Picchu, it’s essential to bring items that are comfortable for walking. Leaving Cusco, the morning will be cold, and upon arriving at Machu Picchu, you'll be in the warm cloud forest climate. Therefore, bring warm clothes and also lightweight clothing. Travel with a small backpack where you can store snacks, water, jackets, and anything else you might need for the trip.
Essentials
What to bring for the Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain hike
If you plan to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, there are some essential items you’ll need to pack to ensure a safe and successful trip:
What NOT to bring to Machu Picchu
To travel more comfortably and responsibly, avoid packing the following items for your excursion to Machu Picchu:
In general, it’s best to travel light and be mindful of the environment and local regulations when preparing for your trip to Machu Picchu.
Travel to Cusco
The Cusco airport currently only operates domestic flights. All international passengers arriving by plane must disembark in Lima and go through customs. It’s important to note that due to Cusco’s high altitude, flights may experience delays or cancellations. Additionally, any weather changes can halt air traffic. If you prefer a land alternative, buses are a viable option, though the journey can be long, especially from Lima. Buses from Lima can take approximately 20 hours to arrive.
Customer pick-up
Ausangate Adventure can pick you up from your hotel, as long as it’s located in Cusco’s Historic Center. We will pick you up at your hotel around this time, though it may be earlier or later depending on the train schedule and your entry time.
Luggage storage
You can safely leave any additional luggage in Cusco, either at your hotel while you go on your trek. It’s important to make sure your bags are clearly labeled for easy identification.
Circuits visited on this tour
This Machu Picchu tour may follow Circuit 1, Circuit 2, or Circuit 3 depending on your entry time and availability. Circuit 1 allows you to explore the upper part of Machu Picchu, including the main observatory, ideal for taking classic photos. Circuit 2 takes you through the most complete areas of the Citadel, including important buildings such as the observatory, temples, houses, the Sacred Rock, and the Temple of the Condor. Circuit 3 offers destinations located in the lower part of the archaeological site. Additionally, these circuit routes allow for hikes to the summit of Huayna Picchu, the Great Cave, and Huchuy Picchu.
Circuit 1 (Panoramic) - 4 Routes
Circuit 2 (Classic) - 2 Routes
Circuit 3 (Royalty Route)
Altitude sickness
Travelers booking their trip to Peru, especially to Cusco, often worry about altitude sickness. The air at high altitudes has less oxygen than at sea level, which forces the body to work harder to obtain the necessary oxygen.
Over several days at high altitude, the body adapts to the lower oxygen levels in the air. Therefore, we always recommend spending at least two days in Cusco before starting any trek in the Andes. Cusco is a fascinating city with plenty to do, so if you have more time to acclimatize, you won’t get bored.
Altitude sickness can initially manifest with symptoms similar to the flu or a hangover. You may experience a headache, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, trouble sleeping, and difficulty breathing during exercise. If any of these symptoms become severe, please inform your guide.
Most of the time, these symptoms are mild. We recommend taking it easy, allowing your body to adjust. Drink plenty of fluids like water or coca tea. Coca tea has been used since ancient times to prevent altitude sickness. Coca leaves contain alkaloids that help transport oxygen in the blood, aiding your body in mitigating the effects of altitude sickness. Avoid excessive alcohol and coffee consumption, as they increase urination and dehydrate you. Avoid smoking, as it makes it harder for your body to obtain oxygen. Avoid sleeping pills, as they can cause shallow nighttime breathing, making it harder to absorb oxygen while you sleep.
Remember, the trek to Machu Picchu is not a race. Even those in excellent physical condition can suffer from altitude sickness if they ascend too quickly. Go slowly, and you’ll allow your body to adapt to the altitude.
Your healthcare provider can prescribe medications such as acetazolamide and dexamethasone to help prevent altitude sickness. Start taking them two days before reaching high altitude and continue while you are at high elevation.
Weather
Machu Picchu's weather is variable and depends on the season, as it’s located in a high jungle region of the Peruvian Andes. During the dry season, from April to October, the weather is pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging between 20-25°C (68-77°F) and cold nights that can drop to 6-11°C (43-52°F). This is the best time to visit due to the lower likelihood of rain.
In the rainy season, from November to March, precipitation is frequent, especially in January and February. During this period, daytime temperatures are slightly warmer, while mornings and nights remain cool. It’s crucial to be prepared for sudden rain with waterproof clothing and to dress in layers to adapt to fluctuating temperatures.
Regardless of the time of year, the weather in Machu Picchu can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to be prepared for a variety of weather conditions.
First aid
Each Ausangate Adventure guide is trained in first aid, and we also carry oxygen for the trek. If you need oxygen, you can request it directly from the guide.
Protests and strikes
Protests and strikes are common in Peru and may affect our travel plans. Roads can be blocked, and trains may stop. However, our entire operations team will stay in communication with you. Your safety is our top priority, and we will take the best measures to protect you in any unforeseen situation.
Lost items
Please take special care of your belongings and ensure you collect all your items when leaving our vehicles, hotels, or restaurants. You are solely responsible for your personal items during the tour.
Tour in shared service.
This group service means that you will take the tour with other people, this standard service is done with a group between 12 to 18 people, we have confirmed departures for every day, so if it is only one or two people, don't worry, they can join to one of our groups.
From: $298.
Tour in private service.
This service is an exclusive way to make this trip where the service is much more personalized, prices vary according to the number of people in your group. Please consult info@ausangateadventure.com WhatsApp +51 914201334
How to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco?
There are several ways to reach Machu Picchu from Cusco:
Train: The most popular option is to take the train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, followed by a bus to Machu Picchu. It is the easiest and most comfortable way.
Inca Trail: A more challenging but rewarding option is to hike the Inca Trail, a four-day trek with campsites along the way.
Salkantay Trek: A harder alternative to the Inca Trail but manageable for those in moderate physical condition.
What to see at Machu Picchu?
Some of the main attractions at Machu Picchu include:
Can I walk from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu instead of taking the bus?
Yes, you have the option to walk from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu on a private tour. In group tours, due to the itinerary schedule, the entire group must travel together on the way there; you would only have the option to walk back. The bus takes approximately 25 minutes to reach the site, while walking takes around 1 hour, depending on each person’s physical condition.
What are the best train tours to Machu Picchu?
Can I stay overnight in Aguas Calientes?
Yes, you can stay overnight in Aguas Calientes. You can send a message when booking to purchase train tickets for your preferred days. We can also help you book a hotel, specifying the category of accommodation you prefer.
What is the difference between the Expedition and Vistadome tourist trains?
The Expedition and Vistadome trains are both operated by Peru Rail.
Expedition:
Vistadome:
What is the luxury train to Machu Picchu?
The luxury train is the Hiram Bingham, inspired by the 1920s, departing from the Poroy station. For more information, check the full itinerary.
What is Huayna Picchu Mountain?
Huayna Picchu Mountain is one of Cusco's main attractions and is considered one of the most fascinating short hikes in the world. The classic postcard photo of Machu Picchu features Huayna Picchu in the background. It is recommended to book 3 to 6 months in advance due to high demand. The hike is of moderate to difficult difficulty and is not allowed for children under 12.
What is the difference between Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain?
Huayna Picchu Mountain:
Machu Picchu Mountain:
What is the difference between Machu Picchu Citadel and Machu Picchu Mountain?
The Machu Picchu Citadel refers to the ruins themselves and is the classic tour. Machu Picchu Mountain is an additional hike, done on the same day, depending on ticket availability.
What are the best trains for a one-day tour to Machu Picchu?
PeruRail’s Expedition and Vistadome trains are the best options for a one-day tour to Machu Picchu. IncaRail also offers services but with fewer trains and daily departures. The early morning trains (6:00 am to 9:00 am) with return times around 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm are ideal for maximizing your time at Machu Picchu.
When is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?
The best time depends on your preferences:
Can you pick us up from an Airbnb?
Yes, we can pick you up from an Airbnb. Please provide the exact address and contact number of the host. Our one-day tour includes transportation from Cusco to Machu Picchu, so you won’t have to worry about making your own way there.
PER PERSON
TWe help you plan the |
Price from:
Per Person |
Request quote for private tour? |
