Cusco: Machu Picchu and Huchuy Picchu Guided Tour with Lunch

Discovering Machu Picchu and Huchuy Picchu: An In-Depth Review of a Full-Day Guided Tour from Cusco

If you’re dreaming of visiting Machu Picchu, this guided tour offers an excellent way to see the iconic site with added adventures and comfort. For $430 per person, you’ll spend a full day exploring the Inca citadel, hiking up Huchuy Picchu, enjoying a tasty lunch, and relaxing in Aguas Calientes’ famous hot springs. The tour runs from Cusco and covers transportation by train and bus, guided explanations, and entrance fees—making this a pretty smooth, well-rounded experience for those eager to tick this world wonder off their bucket list.

What we love about this tour is the combination of guided exploration and the free time to wander at your own pace, plus the chance to hike Huchuy Picchu—a smaller but rewarding summit for those wanting a bit more adventure. The included lunch in Aguas Calientes is a practical touch, giving you energy after a busy morning. Our second favorite feature is the chance to soak in the hot springs, which helps unwind those tired legs.

A few considerations: the early start and long day might be tiring, especially if you’re not used to packed schedules or variable weather. Also, because the tour involves multiple modes of transport and walking on uneven surfaces, it’s not ideal for travelers with mobility issues or heart problems.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive experience—not just visiting Machu Picchu but also hiking Huchuy Picchu and relaxing afterward. If you’re looking for a guided, all-in-one day with historical insights, stunning views, and a bit of adventure, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

• All-inclusive access with transportation, entrance fees, and guide services.
• Hike to Huchuy Picchu for panoramic views and a memorable summit experience.
• Free time at Machu Picchu allows personalized exploration and photography.
• Relaxing in hot springs offers a well-deserved break after a busy morning.
• Scenic train journey from Cusco to Aguas Calientes adds comfort and adventure.
• Suitable for active travelers comfortable with walking and uneven terrain.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting the Day: From Cusco to Machu Picchu

Your adventure begins early in the morning with a transfer to the Ollantaytambo train station. The train ride is often praised for its scenery; many travelers mention it as “the most relaxing part of the day,” with views of terraced hills and lush valleys. While the price includes the train ticket, taking a Vistadome or similar panoramic train offers breathtaking vistas, turning what could be a dull commute into a visual feast.

Once you arrive in Aguas Calientes, you’ll hop on a tourist bus to ascend the winding road leading to Machu Picchu. The bus ride itself is brief but steep, and the views from the bus windows give a sense of proximity to the site.

The Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

Your guide, whose name you might ask for, will lead you through the most significant parts of the citadel—from the Temple of the Sun to the Intihuatana Stone. The guide’s explanations make history come alive, helping you understand the incredible engineering and purpose behind the structures. Several reviews note that guides are bilingual and knowledgeable, making the experience accessible whether you speak Spanish or English.

“[Our guide] Juan was fantastic, giving us just enough detail to enrich the visit without overwhelming,” one traveler shared. Another reviewer appreciated the small group setting, which allowed for more personalized questions and interaction.

Free Time and Hike to Huchuy Picchu

After the guided tour, you’re free to explore Machu Picchu at your own pace. This part is crucial because it allows you to revisit favorite spots, take photos, or simply soak in the atmosphere. Many find that this flexibility makes the experience more memorable.

For the more adventurous, the highlight is the hike to Huchuy Picchu—a smaller mountain that offers spectacular views. The trail is steep and narrow, but the panoramic vistas from the summit are worth every step. Many say it’s a manageable hike if you’re reasonably fit, and it adds a unique perspective to the day.

Lunch and Relaxation in Aguas Calientes

After descending from Huchuy Picchu, you’ll return to town for a delicious lunch. The tour typically includes a sit-down meal—an appreciated break after the morning’s sightseeing. Several reviews mention the quality of the food as decent, providing a good balance of local flavors and comfort.

Post-lunch, you can choose to unwind at the hot springs of Aguas Calientes. Travelers often describe this as a “perfect way to relax tired muscles,” with warm waters that are especially inviting after a morning of walking and hiking.

Return Journey and Final Thoughts

Later, it’s back on the train to Ollantaytambo, followed by a transfer to Cusco. The entire day is quite full, but most find it well-organized and value-packed. The tour ends with you back in Cusco, hopefully with plenty of photos and memories.

The Value of This Tour

At $430, this experience is not cheap, but it covers nearly everything—transportation, entrance fees, guided service, and lunch—which makes it a practical choice for travelers wanting a stress-free, well-coordinated day. The guided component enhances understanding and appreciation of Machu Picchu’s mysteries, especially if you’re short on time or prefer having expert insights.

The optional hike to Huchuy Picchu is a standout feature, offering a sense of adventure and a different perspective of the site. Plus, the hot springs provide a relaxing reward after hours of exploration, which many reviews highlight as a significant plus.

Keep in mind, the tour is geared towards physically capable travelers comfortable with walking on uneven terrain and handling a packed schedule. If you’re unsure about hiking or long walks, you might want to plan for some rest days around this experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This full-day package suits active travelers who want to combine guided sightseeing with outdoor adventure. It’s ideal if you value having all logistics handled—train tickets, entrance fees, and transportation—so you can focus on experiencing Machu Picchu rather than worrying about logistics.

It’s also perfect for first-time visitors eager for a rundown, or seasoned travelers looking for a convenient way to tick this iconic site off their list. If you’re looking for a mix of history, scenery, and a bit of adventure, this tour offers a well-rounded experience.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation (train, bus, and transfers), a professional bilingual guide, entrance fees to Machu Picchu, a train ticket, a tourist bus ticket, and access to the hot springs.

How long does the tour last?
It’s a full-day experience, with check availability for specific starting times, but generally runs about 12 hours.

Is the hike to Huchuy Picchu strenuous?
The hike is steep and narrow, but many travelers find it manageable with reasonable fitness. It offers incredible views and is a highlight for those wanting a little extra adventure.

Can I explore Machu Picchu at my own pace?
Yes, after the guided tour, you have free time to explore the site independently and take photos.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and rain gear are recommended due to the outdoor nature and variable weather.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Not for those with mobility impairments, pregnant women, or individuals with heart problems, as it involves walking and hiking.

How is the weather likely to be?
Weather varies, so be prepared with rain gear and layers. The high-altitude sun can be intense during the day.

What about meals?
Lunch is included, but any other meals are not. You may want to carry snacks or additional drinks.

To sum it up, this guided tour of Machu Picchu from Cusco offers a carefully curated mix of history, scenery, and adventure. It’s best suited for those who want a hassle-free, comprehensive day with a knowledgeable guide and the chance to hike Huchuy Picchu. You’ll appreciate the comfort of the train journeys, the insights from your guide, and the opportunity to relax in the hot springs afterward.

While it’s a full-day commitment and involves some physical activity, most travelers find the experience to be a memorable highlight of their trip. If you’re after an immersive, well-organized day that combines exploration, outdoor fun, and leisure, this tour checks all those boxes.

Whether it’s your first visit or your second, this experience offers a chance to connect with one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world in a meaningful and enjoyable way.