A 2-Day Journey to Machu Picchu Without Tickets: An Honest Review

Imagine whisking away from Cusco, feeling the cool mountain air, gazing at soaring peaks, and stepping into the mysterious world of the Inca at Machu Picchu—all in just two days. This tour, offered at $429 per person, is designed for travelers eager to experience the wonder of Machu Picchu without the hassle of booking tickets yourself or spending multiple days on the road. Instead, it packages the essentials: scenic train rides, guided tours through the archaeological site, and a relaxed afternoon in Aguas Calientes.

What we love about this experience are two things in particular. First, the scenic train journey—it’s a beautiful way to transition from the bustling city of Cusco into the heart of the Andes, with panoramic views that are perfect for photos. Second, the guided tour of Machu Picchu itself is well-structured, covering key sites like the Sacred Plaza, the Temple of the Sun, and the Royal Residence, which really helps bring the ruins to life.

A possible consideration is that this tour doesn’t include admission to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, so if you’re yearning for those iconic high-altitude vistas, you’ll need to add on those tickets separately, which can be an extra expense. Also, because the tour is structured around specific times and group arrangements, it might feel a bit rushed if you prefer wandering at your own pace.

This trip suits travelers who want a well-organized, immersive experience without the complication of planning every detail. It’s ideal for those who value a knowledgeable guide, comfortable transportation, and the chance to see Machu Picchu in a manageable, two-day format.

Key Points

Convenient 2-day package from Cusco to Machu Picchu, including transfers, train, and guided tour.
Scenic train ride offers stunning views of the Andes, perfect for photography.
Guided exploration of Machu Picchu highlights the main Inca sites with an experienced guide.
Free time allows for personal exploration, including optional hikes like Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
Hotel in Aguas Calientes provides a comfortable base for the night.
Price includes hotel pickup, train tickets, and roundtrip bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
Excluded costs: meals (except breakfast), drinks, and tickets for mountain hikes.
Travelers should bring passport or ID, sun protection, cash, and prepare for a day of sightseeing.
Cancellation policy: Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

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Day 1: Cusco to Aguas Calientes

The adventure kicks off with hotel pickup in Cusco, usually early enough to maximize your time in the Sacred Valley. From there, the drive to Ollantaytambo station takes a couple of hours, giving you your first taste of the Andean landscapes—rolling hills, terraced fields, and distant mountains.

Once at the station, you’ll board a scenic train—options include the Expedition or Voyager services—each offering a comfortable ride and great views. We loved the way the train winds through lush valleys and past traditional villages, giving a glimpse of local life. The approximately 1.5-hour journey to Aguas Calientes is a highlight in itself, providing plenty of photo ops with mountain vistas and rushing rivers.

After arriving in Aguas Calientes, the group checks into a hotel. Here, you have the afternoon free to explore the lively town—its markets, cafes, and thermal baths. As one reviewer noted, “The town has a relaxed vibe, perfect for unwinding after the train ride.” You can also use this time to visit local shops or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll before the early start the next morning.

Day 2: Machu Picchu and Return

The next day begins with breakfast at your hotel, followed by a bus ride up the hill to Machu Picchu. The buses are efficient, typically leaving early to beat the crowds. Once at the archaeological site, your guide, like Carlos or Maria (names commonly mentioned), will lead you through the main highlights for roughly 2.5 hours. You’ll see the Sacred Plaza, the Temple of the Sun, and the Royal Residence, with detailed explanations about their functions and significance.

Many travelers appreciate how the guide’s insights make the ruins more meaningful. One person shared, “The guide was very knowledgeable, and I understood so much more about the Incas than I would have on my own.” After the tour, you get about 2 hours of free time—an excellent opportunity to take photos, revisit favorite spots, or hike up nearby Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain if you’ve purchased those tickets separately.

Post exploration, there’s time for a lunch in Aguas Calientes—many options are available, with prices around US$25—or just a quick snack before catching the train back to Ollantaytambo. The return journey offers more stunning scenery, giving you a final chance to enjoy the mountain landscapes. Once back at Ollantaytambo, a bus whisks you to your hotel in Cusco, completing the loop.

The Transport and Logistics

The organized transfers—hotel pickup, bus, and train—are smooth and reliable, reducing the stress of navigating public transport or complex ticket purchases. The train tickets, included in the price, are for the Expedition or Voyager services, both comfortable and well-rated for their scenic routes.

Timing is key: You’ll want to check the tour’s starting times, as they vary, and be prepared for early mornings. Still, the well-structured schedule ensures you maximize your time at Machu Picchu without feeling rushed.

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The Value and Cost

At $429, this tour strikes a balance between convenience and cost. When you consider the hotel in Aguas Calientes, train, and guided tour, it’s a reasonable deal. However, keep in mind that admission to Machu Picchu costs about S/152 (~$40.70) for foreign adults, which isn’t included—so budget for that if you plan to explore beyond the guided tour.

The option to book now and pay later adds flexibility, especially useful if you’re trying to lock in your spot during busy seasons.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who want a comprehensive, guided visit to Machu Picchu without the stress of organizing all the logistics themselves. It’s suitable for travelers who prefer a comfortable pace, with transport sorted out, and who are eager to learn about the Inca site from a local guide. Keep in mind, if you’re a hiker eager for the mountain hikes, you’ll need to purchase those tickets separately.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day trip from Cusco to Machu Picchu offers a well-rounded experience that balances scenic travel, expert guidance, and free time to explore or relax. The scenic train ride is a major highlight, as it sets the tone for the adventure and offers magnificent views along the way.

While the tour doesn’t include hiking Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, it still provides a thorough introduction to the site’s main attractions. It’s especially well-suited for first-time visitors or those short on time but eager to see the famous ruins without the complications of planning every detail themselves.

The combination of comfortable transfers, informative guides, and ample opportunity for personal exploration makes this a strong option for most travelers. Just remember to budget for the entrance fee if you want to venture up the mountains, and prepare for an early start.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
The tour involves some walking around Machu Picchu and taking a bus uphill. If mobility is a concern, it’s best to review specific accessibility arrangements with the provider beforehand.

Do I need to book tickets for Machu Picchu separately?
Yes, the tour price includes the archaeological site entrance fee. However, tickets for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are not included and must be purchased separately if desired.

What should I bring on the trip?
You’ll need your passport or ID, sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, and some cash for extras like meals or souvenirs.

Is food included?
Only breakfast at the hotel is included. Lunch costs around US$25 and is paid separately.

How long is the train ride?
The train journey from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes takes approximately 1.5 hours.

Can I hike up Huayna Picchu?
Hiking Huayna Picchu requires an additional ticket costing about US$60, separate from the tour. It’s best to book this in advance as tickets are limited.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Is the guide available in multiple languages?
Yes, the tour offers guides in both English and Spanish.

What if I want more time at Machu Picchu?
You’ll have about 2 hours of free time post-tour to explore further or climb additional mountains with pre-purchased tickets.

In the end, this tour offers a smart way to see the highlights of Machu Picchu without the headaches of planning every detail yourself. It packs in scenic journeys, expert insights, and enough free time to savor the magic of one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites. Whether you’re a history buff, a photographer, or simply someone eager to tick Machu Picchu off your bucket list, this experience delivers the essentials with comfort and ease.