Exploring Machu Picchu by Train in Just Two Days

If you’re dreaming of seeing Machu Picchu without spending weeks on the road or risking your travel budget, this 2-day train tour from Cusco offers a well-rounded experience at $429 per person. It’s a package that combines comfort, stunning scenery, and practical logistics—perfect for those who want to tick off one of the 7 Wonders of the World with ease.

We find that what makes this tour stand out is the scenic train ride along the Urubamba River, providing travelers with breathtaking views of the lush landscape, and the convenience of staying overnight in Aguas Calientes, allowing for a more relaxed exploration of Machu Picchu. Plus, the small-group setting keeps things intimate and personal, enhancing the experience.

However, it’s worth noting that this tour does not include the bus tickets up and down Aguas Calientes or optional mountain hikes like Huaynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, which some travelers might want to add for extra adventure.

This tour is best suited for travelers who value comfort and efficiency, and those who are eager to experience Machu Picchu without the hassle of organizing every detail themselves. If you’re looking for a straightforward, well-organized trip that balances guided sightseeing and free time, this tour could be just the ticket.

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Key Points

Comfortable transportation: Includes bus and train rides, minimizing walking and fatigue.
Scenic train journey: Offers beautiful views of the high Andes and the Urubamba River.
Authentic experience: Guided tour of Machu Picchu’s main sites with free time to explore.
Overnight in Aguas Calientes: Gives you the chance to rest and enjoy the town’s amenities.
Limited group size: Small groups (max 8 participants) for a more personalized experience.
Optional upgrades and extras: Vistadome train upgrade available; add-on mountain hikes if desired.

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A Detailed Look at the 2-Day Machu Picchu Tour

Day 1: Cusco to Aguas Calientes — The Scenic Journey Begins

The adventure kicks off with a 10:00 am pickup from your Cusco accommodation. This is a big perk because it means you don’t have to worry about navigating local transport; the mini-bus takes you comfortably to Ollantaytambo, an ancient Inca town with impressive stone terraces and a lively local atmosphere. We loved the way this part of the journey sets the scene—you’re traveling through rural landscapes, passing terraced hillsides that hint at the Inca ingenuity.

At Ollantaytambo, around 12:55 pm, you’ll hop aboard the train heading toward Aguas Calientes, the small but bustling town at the foot of Machu Picchu. The train ride itself is a highlight, with options like Voyager or Expedition class—both offering panoramic windows to soak in the changing scenery, from high mountain passes to lush jungle. We appreciated the seamless transition from land to rail that this tour provides, removing the stress of booking separate tickets and transportation.

Upon arrival at Aguas Calientes around 2:50 pm, staff from your tour company will meet you and escort you to your hostel. The town might be small, but it’s packed with restaurants, shops, and even massage parlors—a good spot to relax after the journey. Since most travelers stay overnight here, this part of the trip is less about sightseeing and more about gearing up for the early start the next day.

One thing to keep in mind is that Aguas Calientes is touristy — it’s built to serve visitors to Machu Picchu, so don’t expect quiet. But the convenience of having a cozy base means you can get an early night’s sleep, which is crucial for an early start.

Day 2: The Wonder of Machu Picchu Up Close

Early in the morning, typically around dawn, you’ll trek (or take the bus if you prefer) from Aguas Calientes up to Machu Picchu. The walk along the stone steps is a memorable way to arrive, and depending on your fitness level, you might opt for the bus, which costs around $24 round-trip. The walk offers a chance to stretch your legs and take in the crisp morning air, while the bus is a quick, comfortable alternative.

Once inside Machu Picchu, your guide — who is a professional and knowledgeable local expert — will lead you through a 2-hour tour of the site’s main highlights. You’ll see the Main Plaza, the Circular Tower, the Sacred Solar Clock, and the Royal Quarters. We loved how the guide brought each part of the site to life, explaining its significance with clarity.

After the tour, you’ll have free time to wander, take photos, or simply soak in the atmosphere of this extraordinary archaeological site. The experience of walking amidst the ancient stones and imagining the Incas’ lived world is truly special.

In the afternoon, you’ll retrace your steps, taking the train back from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, then hopping on the bus back to Cusco. The entire journey, with the scenic train and comfortable transport, makes for a smooth and leisurely return.

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The Included and Excluded Aspects

The tour features all transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, the train tickets, lodging in Aguas Calientes, and the entrance fee to Machu Picchu, plus a professional guide. These inclusions make it a good value, especially since you won’t have to worry about organizing multiple tickets or navigating public transport on your own.

What’s not included are bus tickets up and down Aguas Calientes — if you want to save time or avoid the stairs, you’ll need to pay an extra $24. Also, optional visits like Machu Picchu Mountain or Huaynapicchu are not part of the package but can be added with prior arrangements. Food and travel insurance are also excluded, so plan accordingly.

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The Experience and Practicalities

This tour is capped at 8 participants, which keeps things intimate and allows for more personalized attention. Many reviews mention how the small group size enhances the experience, letting everyone ask questions and share observations comfortably.

Travelers have noted that the scenic train ride is truly a highlight, with fans praising the spectacular views of the river and mountains. One reviewer said, “We loved the way the train ride showed off the lush scenery—much better than just a bus.” Another appreciated the early start, saying, “Getting to Machu Picchu at sunrise was magical; it’s a whole different experience without the crowds.”

The overnight in Aguas Calientes is also a big plus, since it allows for a more relaxed visit and a chance to appreciate the town’s charm after day-trippers leave. It’s also convenient for catching an early train to beat the crowds — a wise move for photography and atmosphere.

What to Consider Before Booking

While the tour offers great value, keep in mind that it does not include the bus tickets or optional mountain hikes. If you’re keen on climbing Huaynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you’ll need to arrange and pay for those separately.

Also, this experience is not suitable for pregnant women or travelers with mobility impairments due to the physical demands of walking and the stairs involved in the early trek and site exploration.

Who This Tour is Perfect For

This 2-day Machu Picchu trip is ideal for travelers who want a hassle-free, comfortable experience. If you prefer guided visits with small groups and don’t want to worry about logistics, this package provides peace of mind. It’s especially suited for those eager to see Machu Picchu with minimal fuss, while still having time to enjoy the scenery and explore independently.

If you’re on a budget but still want a quality experience, the inclusion of train, hostel, and guided tour makes it a solid choice. And if you love photography, the early access and scenic train ride offer fantastic opportunities to capture stunning images.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

In summary, this 2-day train tour to Machu Picchu combines convenience, comfort, and memorable scenery. The scenic train ride along the Urubamba River, the small group size, and the overnight stay make it a charming way to experience the Incan highlight. It’s a thoughtfully organized option that balances guided sightseeing with free moments to explore on your own.

If you’re looking for a straightforward way to visit Machu Picchu without the stress of planning every detail and prefer to travel in a small group, this tour offers excellent value. While it doesn’t include every optional activity, it covers your essentials with a focus on authentic experience and scenic beauty.

This tour gives you a solid foundation to appreciate Machu Picchu’s majesty — a memorable adventure that balances ease and adventure.

FAQ

Does the tour include transportation from Cusco?
Yes, a mini-bus from Cusco to Ollantaytambo is included, making the journey comfortable and stress-free.

Are hotel accommodations included?
Yes, you stay overnight in a hostel in Aguas Calientes, with shared rooms provided.

What is the train ride like?
The train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes offers stunning views of the landscape, with options like Voyager or Expedition class.

Can I upgrade the train to Vistadome?
Yes, upgrades are available for an extra $40 per person, subject to availability; just inform the tour provider beforehand.

What do I need to bring?
You should bring your passport, sun protection, rain gear, water, snacks, and camera for the best experience.

Are mountain hikes available?
Optional hikes like Machu Picchu Mountain or Huaynapicchu are not included but can be added if you arrange ahead of time.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
It’s best for those with reasonable mobility, as there is walking involved, especially during the early morning trek and site exploration.

What happens if I want to cancel?
This activity is non-refundable, so be sure of your plans before booking.

Embark on this journey for a well-rounded and scenic glimpse of Machu Picchu, with the added comfort of organized transport and guided insights. It’s an experience that balances adventure with ease—perfect for making the most of your time in Peru.