Train Tour to Machu Picchu – Full Day

Cusco

Overview of this adventure

Duration: 1 Day
Tour Difficulty: Medium

Languages: Spanish & English

Location: Peru

Machu Picchu Day Train Tour – TrueAndes Experience

Discover the wonders of Machu Picchu on a one-day train tour, specially designed for travelers seeking an authentic, accessible, and hassle-free adventure. Operated by TrueAndes, this journey blends breathtaking Andean landscapes with the history and culture of the Inca civilization, providing an unforgettable experience.

Tour Highlights

1. Scenic Train Journey
Travel aboard a promotional train service along the scenic Urubamba River, enjoying the natural beauty of the Andes from the comfort of your seat. While not a luxury train, this option provides reliable and efficient transportation, perfect for travelers who want a full Machu Picchu experience without premium costs.

2. Enchanting Cloud Forest
Approaching Machu Picchu, pass through the lush cloud forest, a unique ecosystem with dramatic cliffs, tropical flora, and abundant wildlife. This area offers excellent opportunities for photography and nature observation, giving travelers a deeper appreciation of the region’s natural beauty.

3. Arrival in Aguas Calientes
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, your professional TrueAndes guide will welcome you and provide detailed information about the visit. Our team ensures smooth logistics, timely updates, and full support, so you can focus on enjoying the experience.

4. Direct Access to Machu Picchu
By using TrueAndes’ organized transfers, you can skip long queues and head directly to Machu Picchu with your guide. This optimized access maximizes your time at the site, allowing a stress-free exploration of the ancient citadel.

5. Expert Guided Tour of Machu Picchu
Explore the iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site with a knowledgeable TrueAndes guide. Highlights of the tour include:

  • Inca architectural masterpieces and engineering marvels

  • Sacred temples, terraces, and observatories

  • Panoramic viewpoints and breathtaking landscapes

  • Insights into Inca history, culture, and spiritual traditions

Every detail is explained with cultural context and storytelling, creating a memorable and enriching experience.

Why Choose TrueAndes for This Tour

  • Professional and certified guides with deep knowledge of Machu Picchu and Inca history

  • Seamless logistics and organization for a worry-free day trip

  • Ideal for travelers with limited time in Peru

  • Accessible pricing with a complete, guided experience

  • Trusted Peruvian operator with offices in Peru, USA, and Spain, ensuring high-quality service, reliability, and transparency

Machu Picchu Full Day Tour – From Cusco (Basic Train Option) – TrueAndes

Embark on a full-day adventure to Machu Picchu from Cusco with TrueAndes, combining affordability with professional guidance, seamless logistics, and cultural expertise. This itinerary is designed for travelers seeking a well-organized, economical, and unforgettable experience at Peru’s most iconic destination.

Suggested Itinerary

05:30 – Hotel Pick-up (Cusco)
Private or group transfer from your hotel to Ollantaytambo Train Station.
Cusco Altitude: 11,152 ft / 3,400 m – Light acclimatization recommended.

08:05 – 08:30 – Train Departure to Aguas Calientes
Travel on a basic promotional train (optional upgrades: Expedition or Vistadome).
Scenic journey along the Urubamba River, passing lush cloud forests and dramatic Andean landscapes.
Ollantaytambo Altitude: 9,163 ft / 2,792 m
Aguas Calientes Altitude: 6,692 ft / 2,040 m

10:50 – Arrival in Aguas Calientes
Board the shuttle bus to Machu Picchu (approx. 25 min).
Suggested attire: layered clothing, sturdy walking shoes, rain jacket, hat, and sunscreen.
Bring a valid passport for site entrance.

11:20 – 13:50 – Guided Tour of Machu Picchu
Explore the ancient citadel with a professional English-speaking guide, visiting:

  • Temples and ceremonial centers

  • Agricultural terraces

  • Panoramic viewpoints

Optional: Free time for photography or personal exploration.
Duration: approx. 2h30.

14:20 – 15:25 – Lunch at Belmond Sanctuary Lodge (Optional, Extra Cost)
Relax with a meal overlooking Machu Picchu and the surrounding Andean peaks.

15:30 – 16:00 – Return to Aguas Calientes
Descend via shuttle bus for onward travel.

16:30 – 17:00 – Train Return to Ollantaytambo
Enjoy a scenic return journey through the Andes and cloud forest.

19:00 – 19:30 – Transfer Back to Cusco
Private or group transfer to your hotel. Arrival in Cusco at approx. 19:30, concluding your full-day Machu Picchu experience.

Important Information & Recommendations

Best Months to Visit: May to September (dry season, stable weather, clear skies).

Entry Requirements: Valid passport is required for Machu Picchu entrance.

Health & Safety: Light acclimatization in Cusco is recommended. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and bring a hat.

What to Bring:

  • Layered clothing and rain jacket

  • Sturdy walking shoes

  • Trekking poles (optional)

  • Camera and binoculars

  • Snacks and approx. USD $20 for personal expenses

Difficulty Level: Moderate; involves walking on uneven stone paths, stairs, and slopes.

Why Choose TrueAndes for Your Machu Picchu Tour

  • Professional English-speaking guides with extensive Inca knowledge

  • Smooth logistics for a stress-free experience

  • Trusted Peruvian operator with offices in Peru, USA, and Spain

  • Personalized support for first-time visitors or budget-conscious travelers

  • Culturally enriching experience while ensuring comfort, safety, and reliability

What’s Included in This Tour?

Included Services – Machu Picchu Full-Day Tour (Vistadome Train Option)

  • Private Transfers:
    Round-trip private transfers between Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Cusco, ensuring comfort, punctuality, and personalized service.

  • Train Tickets:
    Round-trip tickets on the Vistadome train, offering panoramic windows, comfortable seating, and spectacular views of the Urubamba River Valley and Andean landscapes.

  • Bus Transfers to Machu Picchu:
    Shuttle service between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu, ensuring a smooth and convenient journey to the citadel.

  • Official Machu Picchu Entrance (Standard Circuit):
    Access to the archaeological site, including temples, terraces, and viewpoints, following the officially designated standard route.

  • Professional Bilingual Guide:
    An expert English-Spanish speaking guide accompanies the group, providing historical context, Inca cultural insights, and personalized storytelling to enhance the visitor experience.

  • Lunch:
    Buffet or set lunch at Belmond Sanctuary Lodge, overlooking Machu Picchu, offering a memorable dining experience in an extraordinary setting.

  • Personalized Assistance:
    Dedicated support throughout the day to ensure a seamless, safe, and enjoyable experience, catering to travelers’ individual needs.

Optional / Not Included

  • Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain Climb:
    Entrance fees are not included. Advanced reservation is required. Machu Picchu Trek can assist with booking upon request.

  • Tips:
    Gratuities for guides, porters, and staff are optional but appreciated.

  • Travel Insurance:
    Not included. Recommended for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and personal protection.

  • Personal Expenses:
    Snacks, drinks, and any other purchases during the tour are not included.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This full-day Machu Picchu tour combines affordability with professional expertise, ensuring passengers experience Peru’s most iconic site safely, comfortably, and efficiently. The program is meticulously planned for clarity, convenience, and enjoyment, making it perfect for discerning travelers seeking an authentic experience.

Machu Picchu Trek is a 100% Peruvian operator with over 30 years of experience, fully licensed, providing safe, reliable, and highly professional tours recognized by Google and valued by travelers worldwide.

Machu Picchu Full-Day Tour – Essential Information – TrueAndes

Embark on an extraordinary journey to Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, with TrueAndes, a fully licensed Peruvian operator with over 30 years of professional experience. Enjoy unmatched safety, personalized service, and cultural expertise for a seamless and unforgettable adventure.

What to Bring

  • Original Passport: Mandatory for entrance verification at Machu Picchu.

  • Student Card (if applicable): Required to claim student discounts.

  • Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Waterproof jacket or rain poncho, warm layers, and comfortable attire suitable for variable Andean conditions.

  • Essentials: Sun hat, sunscreen (SPF 35+), sunglasses, insect repellent, personal medication, camera, and extra batteries or memory cards.

  • Altitude Awareness: Machu Picchu sits at 2,400 m / 7,873 ft. Prepare for high-altitude conditions.

Additional Notes

  • Train Service: Round-trip via Peru Rail Vistadome Train, featuring panoramic windows and comfortable seating.

  • Distance from Cusco: 112 km / 69.6 miles.

  • Best Months to Visit: May to October (dry season) for optimal sightseeing. Rainy season: November to April.

  • Optional Climbs: Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain – reservation required.

Tour Facts

  • Price: Starting from $450 USD

  • Duration: 1 Day

  • Activity Level: Moderate (Level 2)

  • Start/End: Cusco – Cusco

  • Departure: Daily

  • Location: Peru

Suggested Itinerary (One Day)

05:00 – 05:30 – Pickup from your hotel in Cusco (private or tourist transfer).

07:00 – 08:05 – Train journey from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, passing through the breathtaking Urubamba River Valley.

09:00 – 09:30 – Arrival in Aguas Calientes, followed by a shuttle bus to Machu Picchu.

09:30 – 12:00 – Guided tour of Machu Picchu (standard circuit), exploring:

  • Temples and ceremonial centers

  • Agricultural terraces

  • Panoramic viewpoints

12:00 – 13:30 – Optional free time for photography or short independent exploration.

13:30 – 14:30 – Lunch at Belmond Sanctuary Lodge (included).

15:00 – 16:00 – Return shuttle bus to Aguas Calientes.

16:30 – 19:00 – Train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by private transfer to Cusco.

21:00 – Approximate arrival back in Cusco.

Note: Timings are approximate and may vary depending on train schedules and local conditions.

Inclusions

  • Private/tourist transfers Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

  • Round-trip train tickets (Vistadome, panoramic windows)

  • Shuttle bus tickets Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes

  • Official Machu Picchu entrance (standard circuit)

  • Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish)

  • Lunch at Belmond Sanctuary Lodge

  • Full-day assistance from the TrueAndes team

Why Choose TrueAndes

  • 30+ years of professional experience in Peru’s tourism industry

  • Expert bilingual guides providing historical and cultural insights

  • Reliable transportation and logistics, ensuring a seamless experience

  • Personalized support for travelers seeking comfort, safety, and cultural enrichment

  • Commitment to authentic, responsible, and memorable experiences

Exclusions

  • Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain climbing fees (requires advance booking)

  • Tips for guides, drivers, and staff

  • Travel insurance

  • Personal expenses, snacks, and drinks not listed

Important Notes

  • Foreign and Peruvian passengers without residence in Peru are exonerated from General Sales Taxes (IGV) upon presentation of original passport and Andean Migration Card (TAM) at each hotel in the program. Passports or IDs from Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela, Bolivia, and Chile are accepted if entry into Peru is within 60 days.

  • Tour schedules and excursion orders may change. Times listed are for reference only, with final schedules provided by local operations staff.

  • Extra expenses incurred at the travel destination are the responsibility of the passenger.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

  • Within 30 days of travel: 100% penalty, no refund

  • 31–90 days prior: 50% penalty of total payment

  • 91+ days prior: 35% administrative penalty

  • Post-sale modifications: 35% administrative fee + ticket difference (if applicable)

  • Some services may be interrupted or canceled due to weather or factors beyond our control; no refunds apply in such cases.

$450.00

per person

If you have questions about the Tour, please call us to customize your adventure and learn more making your trip a once-in-a-life experience.

Pay a 50% deposit now and the rest when you arrive in Peru.

Select Group Size


Packing list for the Train Tour to Machu Picchu – Full Day

Sleeping bag

Insect repellent

Cash & cards

Medications & first‑aid

Toiletries

Headlamp

Hat & gloves

Snacks

Water bottle

Sun protection

Rain gear

Layered clothing

Comfortable hiking boots

Travel insurance

Passport & ID

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Tours

Your trusted tour operator in Machu Picchu

We bring a genuine local touch to every adventure. As a 100% Peruvian-owned company, we offer an authentic perspective rooted in respect for our team and a deep connection to the culture and history of the region.

Our Machu Picchu team is fully equipped with satellite phones to provide 24/7 emergency support. Your safety is our highest priority, which is why every trek includes oxygen tanks and first aid kits. Our experienced guides lead each journey with professionalism, care, and expert knowledge.

We provide seamless, worry-free service, including hotel-to-hotel pickups and drop-offs in Cusco. Every detail is thoughtfully arranged to ensure your trek is comfortable and stress-free.

Choosing us means supporting a company with an industry-leading safety record and a strong commitment to excellence. Let our team guide you through the beauty of Machu Picchu while making your journey truly unforgettable.