2-Day Machu Picchu Tour by train from Cusco ( All included )

A 2-Day Machu Picchu Experience: Scenic, Convenient, and Fully Guided

Imagine waking up in Cusco, knowing in just a day and a half, you’ll be standing amidst the legendary stones of Machu Picchu. For $485 per person, this all-inclusive package offers a carefully curated itinerary that takes care of the details—train tickets, hotel, transfers, and a knowledgeable guide—so you can focus on soaking up the wonder of the Inca ruins.

The tour kicks off early in the morning, with a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley, followed by a comfortable train ride to Aguas Calientes, the charming town at the foot of Machu Picchu. The next day, you’ll explore the citadel with an expert guide, with options to climb Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu if booked in advance. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a stress-free, comprehensive experience without sacrificing time or authenticity.

What we really love is how smoothly everything is arranged. The included hotel transfer in Cusco, the seamless train journey, and the round-trip bus to the ruins make the whole experience flow effortlessly. Plus, the opportunity to relax in hot springs after a day of exploration adds a nice touch of comfort. On the flip side, some might find the schedule tight if they prefer more leisure or spontaneous moments.

This tour suits travelers who value a well-organized, guided trip with a focus on seeing the highlights within a limited timeframe. It’s also perfect if you’re traveling with a group or prefer a small, intimate experience—there’s a maximum of 9 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.

Key Points

• All-inclusive comfort makes the trip stress-free from start to finish.
• Expert guidance enriches your understanding of Machu Picchu’s history and significance.
• Scenic train ride offers breathtaking views of the highlands and Urubamba River.
• Flexible options for climbing Machu Picchu or Huayna Picchu appeal to adventure seekers.
• Relaxing hot springs provide a perfect way to unwind after exploring.
• Small group size enhances a personalized, intimate experience.

A Deep Dive Into the 2-Day Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco

Starting Point: Cusco’s Heart and the Journey Begins

The tour kicks off bright and early at 7:00 AM from Plaza de Armas in Cusco. Your day begins with a private pickup, setting the tone for a personalized experience. The essential part of this trip is the journey along the Sacred Valley of the Incas, a route filled with farming terraces, quaint villages, and stunning mountain vistas. The drive itself is a visual feast, providing a glimpse of traditional highland life that complements the archaeological highlight ahead.

In just under two hours, you’ll arrive at Ollantaytambo train station to board the expedition train. This train ride is one of the most enjoyable parts of the experience. We loved the way it offers sweeping views of Andean farms and Urubamba River, with plenty of photo opportunities—ideal for those who appreciate natural beauty. The train station in Aguas Calientes will be your next stop, where a short transfer to your hotel awaits.

The Town of Aguas Calientes: A Relaxing Prelude

Aguas Calientes is the final stop before Machu Picchu, and it’s a town designed for visitors. It’s small but lively, with a laid-back vibe that invites you to enjoy a walk through its streets, browse local markets, or unwind in the famous hot springs. Several guests have praised the hot springs as a relaxing treat after the train journey—some reviewers noted it as a highlight of their trip.

In the evening, your local guide will meet you at the hotel to discuss the next day’s plans. Having a briefing the night before helps set expectations and allows you to ask questions about the visit.

Day Two: The Showstopper – Machu Picchu

The second day begins with a light breakfast, after which you’ll board a bus to the Machu Picchu citadel—a roughly 25-minute ride up the mountain. The journey is a quick, scenic ascent, and it’s the moment many travelers have been eagerly awaiting.

Your guide will give a comprehensive tour of Machu Picchu, covering the most significant sites and sharing stories that bring the stones to life. Expect about two hours of guided exploration, during which you’ll visit the main plazas, temples, and terraces. We appreciated the way the guide’s in-depth knowledge helped us understand the purpose behind each structure.

One of the best parts is the option to climb Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu, but these require booking ahead. If you’ve arranged to climb, your guide will direct you to the entrance. Otherwise, you can opt for a more relaxed walk to the Sun Gate, which offers an incredible panoramic view—ideal for photography and catching your breath after the tour.

Timing and Flexibility

The tour’s structure is very efficient, but it’s worth noting that the schedule is tight. If you’re a slow walker or want more time at each site, you might find some moments rushed. That said, the itinerary maximizes your time, ensuring you see the key highlights without feeling hurried. The inclusion of breakfast, train tickets, and transfers simplifies planning and reduces the hassle of booking separately.

Authenticity and Comfort

Guests frequently praise the professionalism of the guides—specifically mentioning Luis, who was described as “super professional, very friendly, and full of knowledge.” The small group size (up to 9 travelers) makes it easier to ask questions and get personalized attention, which elevates the experience.

The hot springs in Aguas Calientes are a thoughtful addition, giving travelers a chance to unwind after a day of sightseeing. The hotel accommodations are included in the package, providing a convenient base without the need to hunt for lodging last minute.

Pricing and Value

At $485, this tour offers a strong value for travelers wanting an organized, all-inclusive experience. The cost covers quite a bit: hotel stay, train rides, guided tours, entrance fees, and transfers—all of which can be complex to arrange independently. Compared to the hassle of booking each element separately, the package saves both time and potential stress.

What Reviewers Say

Echoing many guests’ sentiments, one reviewer called their experience “excellent,” highlighting that the tour creators “made every effort to accommodate our needs.” The combination of scenic travel, expert guidance, and the opportunity to explore Machu Picchu in-depth makes it a dependable choice.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for those who want a comprehensive, guided overview of Machu Picchu without the hassle of organizing every detail. It’s ideal if you prefer a small group setting and enjoy thorough explanations of the sights. If you’re interested in hiking or climbing Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu, be sure to book those options in advance.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This 2-day Machu Picchu tour offers a balanced mix of convenience, comfort, and authentic exploration. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see the iconic site without the stress of planning every step. The included hotel, train, and transfer arrangements make it a practical choice, especially if your time in Peru is limited.

We found that the guided approach adds depth to the experience, helping us understand the history and purpose of the ruins, which can otherwise feel overwhelming. Plus, the scenic train ride and opportunity for hot springs help round out the trip in a memorable way.

If you’re traveling with a small group, enjoy guided tours, and want a reliable, well-organized visit to Machu Picchu, this tour fits the bill beautifully. Just a heads-up: if you’re a slow walker, or prefer more free time at each stop, you might want to consider whether the schedule suits your pace.

Overall, for a hassle-free, richly guided, and highly praised journey that covers all the essentials, this tour is hard to beat. It offers a solid value for the experience of a lifetime—standing among the stones of Machu Picchu.

FAQ

What is included in this tour?
The tour covers hotel transfers in Cusco, round-trip train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, one night’s accommodation in Aguas Calientes, bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, entrance tickets to the citadel, breakfast, and an English-speaking guide.

Can I hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
Not included in the base package. If you wish to climb either mountain, you need to book those tickets separately when making your reservation. Your guide will assist with directions and timing if you’ve booked in advance.

What is the best way to get to Machu Picchu?
The included round-trip bus from Aguas Calientes takes you up and down the mountain efficiently. The train ride itself is a highlight, offering scenic views that are well worth the journey.

How much time do I have at Machu Picchu?
You’ll have a guided tour lasting about two hours, with extra time to explore on your own afterward or hike to the Sun Gate if you prefer.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, as it’s designed to be accessible and includes small group sizes. If you have mobility concerns, check the schedule and terrain in advance.

When should I book this tour?
Since it’s popular and on average booked 43 days in advance, it’s wise to reserve early to secure your preferred dates and any optional hikes.

This 2-day Machu Picchu trip balances guided expertise with scenic travel, making it a strong choice for those who want a comprehensive experience without the hassle. It’s a smart way to see one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites with comfort and confidence.