MACHU PICCHU TEAM provides our own private transportation for the overland segment to the Ollantaytambo train station. Our highly trained drivers know the mountain roads perfectly. This guarantees a safe transfer and strict punctuality for the early departure.

To reach Aguas Calientes, you will travel by train. You have the option to choose between 2 train companies. PeruRail offers a higher number of daily departure schedules. IncaRail provides a slightly different seating arrangement with wider windows for observing the landscape.

From the town, you take another private transportation up the mountain to the main access point. A representative from MACHU PICCHU TEAM will be aware of your itinerary at all times. This ensures that you do not encounter any logistical problems during the quick transitions between vehicles.

Our guides are expert people in the subject of directing travelers from all over the world in multiple languages. They provide detailed explanations at the archaeological remains. They cover the historical and cultural significance of the stone sectors, ensuring you understand the context of the Inca constructions.

The meals you can eat on this route are of natural origin and prepared with local organic ingredients. You can also opt for international gastronomy dishes during your free time. This option may lead to additional costs depending on the specific restaurant you choose. You can make inquiries about these alternatives to our travel agency reservation team.

Booking this 1 day experience early allows you to buy the most appropriate entrance tickets. The official system has specific limits for each day. Traveling with MACHU PICCHU TEAM guarantees a professional operation from the early morning until your final return to the city.

Trip details

• Duration: 1 full day of travel and historical exploration.
• Starting Point: Cusco, Peru.
• Ending Point: Cusco, Peru.
• Group Size: Approximately 10 participants for the shared service.
• Difficulty Level: Easy, requiring light physical effort to walk through the archaeological remains.
• Languages Available: English, Spanish, and additional languages upon request.
• Transportation Type: Our own private transportation with highly trained drivers and train services.
• Guide Expertise: Expert guides in the subject of directing travelers from all over the world in multiple languages.

Trip Summary

Day 1: Cusco to Machu Picchu and Return

• 03:45 a.m. in the morning to 04:15 a.m. in the morning: The Tour starts with pickup from your hotel in Cusco.
• 06:10 a.m. in the morning or 06:40 a.m. in the morning: Depart by train from Ollantaytambo.
• 08:00 a.m. in the morning: Arrive in Aguas Calientes and have a short briefing.
• 08:30 a.m. in the morning: Board the private transportation up to Machu Picchu.
• 09:00 a.m. in the morning to 10:00 a.m. in the morning: Visit Machu Picchu and start the guided tour.
• 12:30 p.m. at noon: Take the private transportation back to Aguas Calientes.
• 01:00 p.m. in the afternoon: Have free time for lunch.
• 02:30 p.m. in the afternoon or 03:20 p.m. in the afternoon: Travel by return train to Ollantaytambo.
• 04:30 p.m. in the afternoon: Arrive at the train station and board our own private transportation.
• 06:30 p.m. in the evening to 07:00 p.m. in the evening: Arrive in Cusco.

Included

Not Included

• Group Service Adult: 280 USD per person. This applies for shared groups joining other participants.
• Group Service Student: 260 USD per person. This requires a valid physical student card.
• Group Service Child: 260 USD per person. This applies for visitors aged 3 to 17 years.
• Special CAN Adult: 260 USD per person. This applies to citizens of Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, or Bolivia.
• Special CAN Student and Child: 240 USD per person.
• Upgrades: You can upgrade to the Vistadome train for an additional 35 USD for one way, or an additional 50 USD for a round trip.

Climate in the Cusco Area

The dry season from May to October provides sunny mornings and clear skies, making it the preferred time for many visitors. The wet season from November to April brings frequent rain, usually in short but heavy bursts. The mist surrounding the mountains gives the Inca City a unique appearance. The weather changes rapidly. I once visited in February and experienced bright sun immediately followed by heavy rain, so always carry your plastic poncho.

Local People and Culture

The residents in the Andean region are highly welcoming and maintain their traditions carefully. They speak Spanish and Quechua, while English is very common in the main tourist areas. Sharing a polite greeting opens the door to good conversations. You must respect the local rules and follow the marked paths to protect the historical environment.

Common Meals

The food is of natural origin and with local organic ingredients. You can find excellent dishes featuring large corn, potatoes, and quinoa. In the town, you have a wide variety of restaurants offering both traditional Peruvian meals and international gastronomy. The traditional markets offer the most authentic flavors.

Free Places to Visit

While waiting in the town before your return train, you can walk around the main plaza or follow the paths near the river freely. Observing the large stone mountains from the lower valley costs nothing and provides a great perspective of the geographical area.

Affordable Eating Spots

The central market in the town serves large plates of local food for under 5 USD. You can find thick soups or rice dishes very easily. Avoid the restaurants located directly next to the train station if you want to save money, as they usually charge much higher prices.

Year Round Clothing

You must dress in layers. The early morning in the city is very cold, requiring a heavy jacket. By the time you reach the lower altitude of the historical site, the temperature increases significantly, and you will need light t shirts. Breathable materials are highly recommended. Your footwear must be comfortable enough for several hours of continuous walking.

Physical Effort and Health Needs

This full day route does not involve long hiking distances, but you will walk continuously for approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes inside the Inca constructions. The paths include uneven stone steps. You should spend at least 1 full day adjusting to the altitude before taking this tour. Drink hot coca tea and eat light meals. Statistics show that the vast majority of visitors handle this specific itinerary without any health complications.

FAQs

• Original Passport: Your physical passport is strictly required for identification at the train station and the entry controls of the Inca City.
• Student Card: Your original physical student card, if applicable, to verify your discount qualification at the time of your entry.
• Daypack: A small backpack with a maximum capacity of 25 liters to carry your daily items without hurting your back.
• Rain Gear: A plastic rain poncho is extremely useful in sudden wet conditions common in the Andes.
• Warm Clothing: A warm jacket or heavy coat to handle the cold morning air in Cusco before the sun rises.
• Sun Protection: Sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher to protect your skin from the intense solar radiation at high altitudes.
• Headwear: A wide brimmed hat or a cap for head coverage during the sunny parts of the day.
• Sunglasses: Dark lenses with UV protection to guard your eyes against the intense glare.
• Walking Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or sturdy sneakers with good grip for the uneven stone steps.
• Reusable Water Bottle: A container for constant refills, keeping your daily hydration easy while reducing plastic waste.
• Insect Repellent: A strong bug spray to avoid discomfort in the tropical outdoor zones near the river.
• Electronic Devices: A camera or smartphone with a portable battery bank to take pictures of the archaeological remains without losing power.
• Local Currency: Cash in Peruvian Soles for minor transactions, extra meals, or access to public restrooms.
• Personal Medications: Any specific items like pain relievers or pills for altitude sickness for your personal health needs.