7th wonder Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu mountain

Experience the Wonder of Machu Picchu and the Thrill of Huayna Picchu

This full-day tour offers a memorable journey to Machu Picchu, one of the world’s most iconic ancient sites, combined with the adrenaline rush of hiking Huayna Picchu. For $486 per person, you’ll visit the legendary Inca citadel, climb the steep trails of Huayna Picchu, and enjoy breathtaking vistas—all in just one day. Starting early, the itinerary is designed to maximize your experience, with transportation, guided insights, and enough free time to soak in the atmosphere.

What we love most about this experience is the balance between structured exploration and personal adventure. The guided tour offers expert context, while the climb up Huayna Picchu presents a physical challenge that rewards you with sweeping views and the chance to see the Temple of the Moon. Another highlight is the included train and bus tickets, which make logistics straightforward and smooth.

The only caveat? The tour requires booking at least a month in advance due to the high demand and limited Huayna Picchu tickets. It’s not ideal if your plans are uncertain or you’re susceptible to vertigo, as the trail to Huayna Picchu is steep and narrow. Overall, it’s perfect for travelers who want an active, well-organized day with a focus on authentic exploration.

This tour suits those with a love for history combined with a taste for adventure, and it’s especially appealing if you want to see Machu Picchu with a knowledgeable guide and enjoy the thrill of climbing Huayna Picchu.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Transportation, entrance fees, and guided tours are included, simplifying logistics.
• Active Adventure: The climb up Huayna Picchu provides an adrenaline-filled experience and stunning panoramic views.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides offer rich historical insights, enhancing your understanding of Machu Picchu.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups (up to 9) ensure personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Early Start & Long Day: Starting at 4:00 am, expect a full day with lots of moving parts but rewarding sights.
• Advance Booking Needed: Tickets for Huayna Picchu are limited and require booking at least a month ahead.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Early for a Full Day of Discovery

The tour begins bright and early at 4:00 am, with hotel pickup near or within Cusco’s historic center. This early start is essential since the journey to Machu Picchu involves multiple steps—travel to Ollantaytambo, train ride, bus transfer, and a guided exploration—all packed into one day. While this might sound exhausting, it’s a small price to pay for the incredible experience ahead.

From your hotel, the transfer to Ollantaytambo station is comfortable and straightforward, setting the tone for a well-organized trip. The train ride to Aguas Calientes is part of the adventure, offering scenic views of the Peruvian landscape and a chance to relax before the busy day ahead. The train options, such as Expedition or Voyager, provide different styles of comfort and speed, but all keep you moving efficiently toward Machu Picchu.

Climbing Huayna Picchu – An Adrenaline Rush

Once in Aguas Calientes, a bus whisks you up the steep hillside to the entrance of Machu Picchu. Here, you’ll meet your guide, who will provide directions for exploring the site and tell you what to look for. But the real highlight is the chance to climb Huayna Picchu, which is not included in the guided tour but can be explored independently after meeting the guide.

The hike up Huayna Picchu is not for the faint of heart. It’s steep, with narrow and rocky paths, so good shoes and a head for heights are essential. The trail culminates at the Temple of the Moon—an incredible vantage point that offers panoramic views of the entire Machu Picchu complex. One reviewer called the climb “though, but very very worth it,” emphasizing how the effort pays off in stunning scenery and a sense of accomplishment.

Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

After your ascent, you’ll meet your guide again to explore the ruins. Expect to walk around the site, learning about its Inca architecture, significance, and the purpose of various structures. The guide’s insights turn a mere photo opportunity into a meaningful experience, helping you appreciate the craftsmanship and ingenuity of the Incas.

Your timing allows for a reasonable amount of time to explore independently or revisit favorite spots. You might also take some moments to enjoy the tranquility of Machu Picchu without crowds, which is a real privilege given the site’s popularity.

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Free Time & Return Journey

Following the guided tour, you’ll have some free time to grab lunch on your own in Aguas Calientes before heading back. The tour concludes with a train ride back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a bus to Cusco, arriving in the evening. The entire day is a whirlwind, but with careful planning, it’s highly rewarding.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Value for Money: For $486, everything is included—train, bus, entrance fees, and guide—making it a straightforward package. While other options might be cheaper, they might not include Huayna Picchu or have the same personalized experience.

Authentic Experience: With a small group limited to nine participants, there’s room for personalized attention and questions. The guide’s knowledge seems to earn high praise, making the history come alive.

Adventure and Challenge: Climbing Huayna Picchu offers more than just a walk—it’s a physically demanding but exhilarating part of the day. The views and the sense of achievement make it worth the effort.

Flexible Yet Structured: The itinerary balances guided exploration with personal time, allowing you to savor the site and enjoy the views at your own pace.

Early Start & Efficient Transport: The early wake-up call and organized transfers maximize your time, ensuring you see as much as possible.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the tour is well-organized, the early start might be tough for some travelers, especially if you’re not a morning person or are traveling with young children. The hike up Huayna Picchu is steep and narrow; those with vertigo or mobility issues should think carefully before attempting.

Also, since Huayna Picchu tickets are limited, securing your spot requires planning and booking at least a month in advance. Without this, you might miss out on the climb but can still enjoy the rest of the site.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want an active, immersive day at Machu Picchu, with the added thrill of climbing Huayna Picchu. It suits those who appreciate guided insights and are comfortable with a physically demanding hike. If you’re looking for a well-organized, all-in-one tour that combines transportation, history, and adventure, this is a strong choice.

It’s less suitable for travelers seeking a relaxed, leisurely visit or those with mobility concerns. The early start and strenuous hike may not fit everyone’s style, but for many, the reward of reaching the Temple of the Moon and viewing Machu Picchu from above makes it worthwhile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book this tour in advance?
Yes, you should book at least 1 month ahead because Huayna Picchu tickets are limited and sell out quickly.

What does the tour include?
The tour includes hotel pickup, train tickets, bus transfers, entrance fees to Machu Picchu, and a professional guide. It does not include food, extra expenses, or guided access to Huayna Picchu.

Is the hike up Huayna Picchu difficult?
The trail is steep, narrow, and rocky, so it’s not recommended for people with vertigo or mobility issues. Good shoes and a head for heights are essential.

How long is the total tour day?
It starts around 4:00 am and ends in the evening, making for a long but fulfilling day. Be prepared for a full schedule.

Can I explore Machu Picchu on my own after the guided tour?
Yes, you’ll have some free time after the guided portion for personal exploration or photography.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, a camera, snacks, drinks, cash, and a daypack are recommended.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While it’s great for active travelers, the strenuous hike and early start may not suit young children or those with health concerns.

To sum it up, this Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu tour offers a combination of culture, physical challenge, and breathtaking scenery, all wrapped in a well-organized package. Perfect for those who want to combine history with adventure, it provides great value and expert guidance, making it easier to navigate one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites. Just remember to book early, pack wisely, and prepare for an unforgettable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby