Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco

Machu Picchu Overnight tours starts when our transfer pick you up from your hotel and transfer to railway station (either at Poroy, which is 30 minutes far away from Cusco or at Ollantaytambo which takes 1 hour and 40 minutes from Cusco). There you board a train and travel for about 1 hour 45 minutes experiencing spectacular changeable landscapes passing through lush fields and colourful villages placed on the foothill of the Andes. The highlight of the way are wonderful views of mountains and the marvellous Urubamba River that runs through the Sacred Valley of the Incas. In the end, you reach Aguas Calientes, a town just below Machu Picchu, where our Representative welcomes you at the railway station to accompany you to Hotel.

You do not tour Machu Picchu on the first day. You just accommodated yourself in a hotel and the rest of the day is free so that you can the visit thermal baths (hot springs) and the lovely surroundings of Aguas Calientes or you can do the extra activities in Machupicchu town such as walking to Mandor Water fall walk tour, Rock Carving and others.

Second day of the 2 day Machu Picchu tour, we wake up earlyt and transfered to bus station. There you get on a shuttle bus taking you up to the archaeological complex of Machu Picchu following a zigzag path for about 25 minutes.

Once in Machu Picchu, your Tour Guide introduces you the most important attractions of this antique Incan site such as its main square, the Sun Temple, Intiwatana (Sun Clock), the Royal Rooms, the Temple of the Three Windows and the Royal Incas Cemetery. This guided tour takes about 2 and half an hour and then you can climb up Huayna Picchu (or Machu Picchu Mountain) to take some amazing panoramic photos of Machu Picchu. So please do not forget your camera and enjoy the visit of the "One of the New 7 Wonders of the World" !!

When you have enjoy the site enough, you take a shuttle bus down to Aguas Calientes where you can have lunch (not included in the package) in one of many lovely restaurants offering traditional Andean as well as international cuisine. Afterwards, you can visit the thermal baths of Aguas Calientes or the Museum of the Site (neither entrance of these is included in the package).

In the afternoon, we take a train back to Ollantaytambo (alternatively to Poroy) where our driver expects us in front of the railway station to transfer us to Cusco. Our driver will drop you off in your hotel or Airbnb. End of the 2 day Machu Picchu tour.

• The pre-tour briefing (Our guide will visit your hotel a day before the trek for your briefing);
• Transfer from Cusco to the train station (Tourist transportation);
• Accommodation: Hotel (01 night);
• Meals: 01x Breakfast, 01x Snack bag;
• Entrance fee to Machu Picchu circuit 1 or 2;
• Professional tour guide;
• Train around trip to Machu Picchu;
• A shuttle bus up and down to Machu Picchu;

What is included in the Snack Bag?

Inca Trail Machu will provide the snack bag for your tours of Machu Picchu from Cusco and include the following:

• Small bottled water (500 ml);
• A small bottle of Gatorade (a sports drink used for rehydration);
• Cusco's cereals or Granola (it consist of kiwicha, quinoa, raisins, honey, and grated coconut);
• Small fruit-juice drink;
• 1x tangerine;
• Raisins with peanuts.

• Meals not details
• Entrance fee to Huayna Picchu Mountain ($80)
• Tips

From Cusco to Machu Picchu

If you are in Cusco, our representative will be meeting in your hotel 2 or 1 day before the Machu Picchu trip. It is very important to send us your hotel information.

All Machu Picchu tours are accompanied by our driver.

In Machupicchu town

Once you arrive in Machupicchu town, our guide or representative will be waiting at the train station with your sign. He/She will take to the hotel.

Between to 18:00 to 19:00, our guide will be meeting in your hotel for your briefing: This briefing is for your coordination, what time you will start your guided tour of Machu Picchu.

Important update regarding Machu Picchu from 1st June 2024

Starting June 1, 2024, Machu Picchu will implement a new system featuring only three circuits for visitors. During the high season, a stricter policy will be enforced, allowing only a 45-minute grace period for your designated circuit. To buy the Machu Picchu tickets on the new platform, I suggest you at least take a glance below to get familiar with a few highlights before you dive in to buy tickets. 

What new features do the Machu Picchu circuits offer?

Machu Picchu, the Inca citadel shrouded in mysteries and legends, opens its doors to you so that you can discover its imposing structures and captivating landscapes. Therefore, to guarantee that the experience is unforgettable, new tourist circuits have been designed that will allow you to get to know this fascinating place in detail.

• Circuit 1: This circuit is perfect for those who want to enjoy spectacular views and capture the essence of the site from various high angles; Likewise, this circuit allows you to get the classic postcard photo of Machu Picchu from the Casa del Guardian viewpoint.
• Circuit 2: This circuit allows you to explore the lower or urban area of ??the Machu Picchu citadel. This route also allows you to obtain the iconic photo of Machu Picchu, but from a platform lower than the Guardian's House or a lower terrace; although it should be noted that this circuit gives you more options of places to visit.
• Circuit 3: This circuit offers you a new experience, here we have four different routes, you can explore and observe the incredible nature of Machu Picchu from Huayna Picchu, enter the Great Cavern or visit Huchuypicchu, this circuit takes you through the urban area of ??Machu Picchu, discovering historical sites but without the classic panoramic photo.

Is it better to enter Machu Picchu in the afternoon or morning?

Machu Picchu offers entry times so you can choose the one that best suits your pace and preferences. Below, we detail each one:

• Early morning admission (6:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.):
  - Incredible sunrise: Get up early and enjoy a Machu Picchu with few people.
  - Experience: Tranquility, tour the citadel without crowds, unique panoramic photos.
• Morning admission (10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.):
  - Quiet hours: Ideal for those who do not want to get up very early, but want to tour the citadel with clear skies and the sun at its best.
  - Experience: Greater influx of people, classic photo with the sun high and the sky clear.
• Afternoon admission (2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.):
  - Magical sunset: Enjoy the sunset over Machu Picchu.
  - Experience: Cool weather in the afternoons and photos with warm light.

What can I bring to Machu Picchu?

Unfortunately, large luggage is not allowed into Machu Picchu. Only a small backpack with the following measurements is allowed:

• Dimensions: 40cm x 35cm x 20cm (16in x 14in x 8 in)
• Content: Small personal items such as: Water, Snacks, Sunscreen, Insect repellent, Cap or hat, Camera (without tripod) and your personal documents.

What can I not bring to Machu Picchu and what are the prohibitions?

• Please bring only bags smaller than 40x35x20 cm (16x14x8 inches).
• Enter with food and household items (utensils and accessories used in the kitchen and home).
• Entering with any type of alcoholic beverage or in an ethyl state.
• The following items are not allowed: walking sticks, umbrellas, parasols, portable seats, tripods, camera or cellphone supports or extensions (including selfie sticks), or any other stabilization or extension element for filming and/or photography.
• Flying drones is not allowed at Machu Picchu.
• No pets are permitted, except for guide dogs.
• Feed domestic and wild animals.
• Enter with any type of aerosols.
• Make any type of graffiti.

What can't I bring to Machu Picchu?

To preserve the beauty and heritage of Machu Picchu, there are some restrictions on what you can bring and the activities you can do inside the citadel, such as the following:

• Backpacks, bags or large bags: Only backpacks, bags or bags that do not exceed the measurements of 40x35x20 cm (16x14x8 inches) are allowed.
• Food and household items: Food and household items (utensils and accessories used in the kitchen and home) are not allowed.
• Alcoholic beverages: It is prohibited to bring alcoholic beverages or be intoxicated.
• Objects: Canes, umbrellas, parasols, portable seats, tripods, supports or extensions for cameras, cell phones or any other stabilization or extension element for filming and/or photography are not permitted.
• Drones: Flying drones is not allowed at Machu Picchu.
• Animals: Animals are not allowed, except for guide dogs.

When to visit Machu Picchu?

Machu Picchu awaits you all year round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences:

• Dry and sunny climate (May to October):
  - Ideal to enjoy the landscape and walk without problems.
  - Less chance of rain: Perfect for taking photos without an umbrella.
  - High season: More tourists, so it is recommended to book in advance.
• Green and wet season (November to April):
  - Lush landscapes: Machu Picchu is dressed in intense green.
  - Rains: Frequent, especially in January, February and March.
  - Fewer tourists: Lower prices and greater tranquility.
  - Fog: It can create a mysterious and unique atmosphere.
  - Recommendation: Wear waterproof clothing and appropriate footwear.

How far in advance should I reserve my entry to Machu Picchu?

Although it is possible to buy your ticket to Machu Picchu a day in advance, we recommend doing so at least one or two months in advance.

• Why book in advance?
  - Limited tickets: Entry to Machu Picchu is restricted to preserve the archaeological site.
  - Popular circuits: The most popular circuits and the visit to Huayna Picchu sell out quickly.
  - Better experience: Booking in advance allows you to choose the time and circuit that you like best.
• What happens if I didn't reserve in advance?
  In some cases, you can purchase tickets with alternative times. However, due to high demand you may not be able to access the classic photo or the summit of Huayna Picchu.
  - Dates with high demand: During the high season (June to August), it is almost impossible to get last minute tickets.

Are you worried about altitude sickness in Machu Picchu?

Don't worry and follow these tips to enjoy a worry-free trip to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu:

• Gradual acclimatization: The key is to ascend moderately so that your body adapts to the lower amount of oxygen at altitude; So, spend at least one day in Cusco without making extreme physical efforts to acclimatize.
• Light diet: Opt for easy-to-digest foods that facilitate the acclimatization process; What's more, avoid heavy or greasy foods.
• Constant hydration: Drink between 2 and 3 liters of water a day while you are in Cusco. Hydration is vital!
• Adequate rest: Sleep at least 8 hours before your excursions to keep your body rested and ready for the adventure.
• Natural remedies: Enjoy mate or infusions that help your digestion during your stay.

The following hotels in Machupicchu town are used to accommodate our travelers during your 2-day Machu Picchu tours from Lima or Cusco.

Casa de Luz Machu Picchu

Solo Traveler to Machu Picchu Tours from Cusco:

It doesn't matter whether you are single or your partner is not on vacation at the moment. If you are asking yourself whether you should dare to travel alone to Machu Picchu or whether you should stay at home, the answer can only be: pack your bags and start the adventure! Solo Machu Picchu trips are trendy and offer you the opportunity to spend a few days according to your wishes.

Many hotels have recognized this trend and have adapted to solo travelers, offering appropriate rooms with extra cost single room surcharges.

If you booked as a "Solo Traveler," we will provide a single room with a private bathroom, and a surcharge of USD 30 will have to be paid. If you want to upgrade any service, such as the train or accommodation, or if you want to stay an extra night in Machu Picchu, contact us directly at info@incatrailmachu.com for confirmation.

IMPORTANT ACCOMMODATION NOTE:
You must present your passport (copy) to all hotel accommodations. The national sales tax (18%) is charged to all Peruvian citizens and foreigners staying 60 consecutive days or more. You need to bring it to the Cusco office for your check-in.

UPGRADING MACHU PICCHU HOTELS:
If you would like to upgrade your accommodation, we could offer you a U$ 25 discount per person (Double or Single room), and you can book your hotel yourself, or we can recommend the following:

If you want to know more information about the hotels, please click on Machu Picchu Luxury Resorts

Machu Picchu tours from Cusco

Departure Point: Our driver will pick you up from your hotel, hostel, or Airbnb in Cusco or Sacred Valley.

Departure Time: 09:00 - 10:00 am.

Briefing Point: Our representative will be meeting in your hotel 2 or 1 in Cusco the day before your Machu Picchu tour.

Briefing Time: 18:00 - 19:00.According to your accordinations with Inca Trail Machu staff.

Return Point: Our driver will be dropping you off in your hotel, hostel, or Airbnb in Cusco and Sacred Valley.

Packing List for Machu Picchu Adventure:

This packing list is designed for a 4-day trip but is adaptable for longer durations. Whether you leave your backpack in the hotel, use lockers, or carry it to Machu Picchu, ensure it's not too heavy as you'll carry it throughout.

Baggage:

For the train journey, carry-on luggage must weigh no more than 5.0 kg/11 lb, with dimensions not exceeding 157 cm (height + length + width).

For the Belmond Andean Explorer, cabin luggage should not exceed 05 kg/11 lbs per passenger. Larger luggage can be stored in the train's designated storage wagon. Bring essentials with you, as access to the storage wagon is limited.

Documents:

Protect your documents with a dry bag, Zib bag, or protective cover:

Passport (for a Machu Picchu stamp)
International health insurance

Medical masks
Proof of vaccination (digital and paper form, preferably in English/Spanish)

Finance:

Wallet
Credit card or debit card
Soles (S/100 or more for souvenirs or snacks in Machupicchu town)

Clothing:

Wear most items rather than carrying them in your backpack, adapting to the changing weather throughout the day:

Fleece vest
Functional shirt
Long sleeve shirt
T-shirt
Long pants (leggings or jeans)
Underwear
Socks
Hat or baseball cap
Swimwear (for hot springs)
Sneakers (worn during the trip)
Optional flip-flops (for the hotel)

Inca Trail Machu will provide before the tour:

Train ticket (round trip to Machu Picchu)
Admission ticket to Machu Picchu
Bus ticket (up and down to Machu Picchu)
Snack bag