From Cusco: Full Day Tour of Machu Picchu by Tourist Train

From Cusco: Full Day Tour of Machu Picchu by Tourist Train

Imagine a day combining scenic train rides, ancient ruins, and expert-guided stories – all without the hassle of navigating public transport yourself. For about $360 per person, this full-day tour takes you from Cusco to the legendary Machu Picchu in style, comfort, and with a knowledgeable bilingual guide. It’s a well-organized way to see one of the world’s most iconic sites, especially if you prefer small-group intimacy to crowds.

What we love most about this tour is how it simplifies the logistics. From hotel pickup to return, all transportation, tickets, and guidance are arranged for you, letting you focus on soaking in the breathtaking scenery and mysterious ruins. Another highlight is the choice of comfortable trains (EXPEDITION or VOYAGER), which add a touch of luxury to your journey. The guide’s storytelling and the inclusive nature of the tour make it feel like a curated adventure rather than a rushed visit.

However, one potential consideration is the strict non-refundable policy—if your plans change unexpectedly, refunds won’t be available. Also, some reviews highlight the importance of being prepared for the long day, but for travelers eager to see Machu Picchu without the headache of planning every connection, this tour offers excellent value.

This experience is perfect for those who want a comprehensive, guided visit with minimal fuss, especially if you’re arriving in Cusco and want to maximize your time at Machu Picchu without the stress of booking separate tickets and transportation.

Key Points

• All-inclusive logistics mean no need to worry about train or bus tickets.
• Small-group size (maximum 15 travelers) ensures a more personal experience.
• Comfortable train travel on EXPEDITION or VOYAGER trains makes the journey enjoyable.
• Guided tour provides insights into Machu Picchu’s mysteries and history.
• Flexible itinerary with options for additional hikes (Huaynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain) at extra cost.
• Long but rewarding day—from early pickup to evening return.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

Early Morning Pickup & Sacred Valley Drive

The adventure begins with hotel pickup—a hassle-free start. Within about an hour and a half, you’ll be cruising through the Sacred Valley, a stunning corridor lined with Inca terraces and villages. We liked how the tour includes this scenic drive, which offers a taste of the Peruvian countryside before the train journey. The guide, often in bilingual narration, points out interesting sights, setting the tone for the day ahead.

Tip: Arrive early to ensure you’re ready for the pickup at the scheduled time, especially since the day starts early.

Ollantaytambo Station & Train Ride

From Ollantaytambo station, you board your train—either EXPEDITION or VOYAGER—for the roughly two-hour ride to Aguas Calientes. The train offers fantastic views of the Andes mountain range, with panoramic windows perfect for snapping photos. Several travelers have praised the train experience: “During the journey you will be able to admire the beautiful landscape that the Andes mountain range offers us,” as one reviewer noted.

This leg of the trip is often considered the highlight for its scenery, providing a smooth and comfortable transition from land to the foot of Machu Picchu.

Authentic tip: Don’t forget your camera and some snacks for the train, as the scenery is captivating.

Arrival in Aguas Calientes & Ascent to Machu Picchu

Upon arriving, your guide will meet you and help coordinate your bus trip up to Machu Picchu. The bus ride is short but steep, winding its way up to the main entrance. Once there, your guide begins a 2.5-hour guided tour of the ruins, providing context and stories behind the stones and structures.

According to reviews, guides like Mario (not named here but typical) are passionate and knowledgeable, sharing insights that make the ruins come alive. Expect to see the famous Intihuatana stone, the Royal Palace, and the Temple of the Sun.

Note: You’ll have free time afterward, allowing you to explore further or take photos. Many enjoy the opportunity to soak in the landscape and marvel at the ingenuity of the Incas.

Return Journey & Hotel Drop-off

After your tour, you descend via bus to Aguas Calientes, then board the train back to Ollantaytambo. From there, a pre-arranged shuttle transports you back to Cusco. The day ends with a return to your hotel, exhausted but enriched.

What We Appreciate

Simplicity and Peace of Mind: Booking this tour means all logistics—train tickets, bus rides, entry fees, and guided tours—are handled for you. As one traveler expressed, “Everything was organized for me,” which is invaluable when navigating a foreign country.

Small Groups for a More Personal Experience: With a maximum of 15 travelers, you get a more relaxed, less crowded atmosphere. This allows for better interaction with your guide and more flexibility during the tour.

Comfortable Train Carriages: The choice between EXPEDITION or VOYAGER trains caters to different preferences, with many reviewers mentioning how comfortable and scenic the ride is. The views through large windows make the journey just as memorable as the destination.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

Strict Cancellation Policy: The tour is non-refundable. If your plans change, you’ll need to be sure before booking.

Long Day, Early Start: The itinerary is packed, starting early in the morning and returning late in the evening. Be prepared for a full day of travel and walking.

Limited Time for Extra Hikes: While tickets for Huaynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain can be purchased optionally, these are subject to availability and cost extra. If you’re eager to climb, plan ahead.

Mixed reviews on guide quality: Some reviews mention guides who are not bilingual or less informative. It’s worth confirming the guide speaks your preferred language.

Why This Tour Works Well

This tour suits travelers who want a stress-free, guided experience with all logistics taken care of. It’s especially good if you’re arriving in Cusco and want to maximize your time at Machu Picchu without the hassle of booking separate tickets. The small group size and comfortable train rides make it suitable for those who prefer a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere.

It’s ideal for first-time visitors eager to see the site with a knowledgeable guide, but also for seasoned travelers who appreciate well-organized transport and detailed explanations. The option to extend your visit with additional hikes makes it flexible for those wanting a deeper experience.

The Sum Up

For many travelers, this full-day Machu Picchu tour from Cusco offers a compelling combination of convenience, comfort, and authenticity. It removes the stress of coordinating multiple tickets and transport arrangements, allowing you to focus on the awe-inspiring views and the stories behind the stones. The small-group setting ensures a more personalized experience, while the scenic train journeys and expert guides add value that many other options lack.

If you’re after a well-organized, informative day trip, this tour delivers. It’s particularly suitable for visitors who value ease and comfort but still want to connect with Machu Picchu’s mystique. That said, if you prefer more flexibility or are traveling on a tight schedule, consider your options carefully, especially given the non-refundable policy.

This tour strikes a good balance between cost, convenience, and quality. It’s a reliable choice for those who want to enjoy Machu Picchu with little fuss while soaking in the stunning scenery along the way.

FAQ

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included at your hotel within the Cusco Historic Center or a designated meeting point, making the start and end of your day seamless.

What trains are used for the trip?
You will travel on either the EXPEDITION or VOYAGER train, both offering comfortable seating and large windows for scenic views of the Andes.

Are guided tours bilingual?
Yes, the guide is bilingual (English/Spanish), but some travelers have noted variability in guide quality and language proficiency. It’s helpful to confirm this when booking.

Is there free time at Machu Picchu?
Yes, after the guided tour, you’ll have free time to explore further, take photos, or simply enjoy the site at your own pace.

Can I visit Huaynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
These optional climbs are available at extra cost and are subject to availability. You must buy tickets in advance for these hikes.

How long is the entire day?
Expect about 10 hours from pickup in Cusco to return, including travel time, guided tour, and free periods.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, sun protection, a rain jacket, cash, water, snacks, and your passport are recommended. Bring a camera for the photos.

What if my plans change?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so be sure of your schedule before confirming.

What if my flight is delayed?
Some reviews mention issues with missed connections or delays, so check your flight timings carefully. The tour requires ticket confirmation with participant details, so plan accordingly.

In essence, this tour offers a well-rounded, stress-free way to experience Machu Picchu, especially for those who prioritize comfort and guided insights. It’s a solid choice for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike who want a hassle-free day that combines scenic travel with the magic of one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites.