Machu Picchu By Train 2 Days Tour

Exploring Machu Picchu doesn’t have to mean trekking the Inca Trail if you’re after a more relaxed, stress-free journey. This 2-day Machu Picchu by Train Tour from Cusco offers a well-balanced mix of comfort, guided insight, and the chance to stand in awe of one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites. For $397.44 per person, and with a small-group limit of just 12 travelers, this tour is perfect for those who prefer a more intimate experience without sacrificing the highlights.

What we love about this tour? First, the seamless logistics—everything from pickup in Cusco to train rides and transfers is arranged for you, so you can focus on soaking in the scenery and the history. Second, the personalized guided tour at Machu Picchu—small group sizes mean your guide can give you more attention, making the visit more meaningful.

A potential consideration? The tour doesn’t include meals beyond breakfast in Aguas Calientes, so you’ll need to plan for lunch and dinner on your own. Also, the schedule is quite packed, especially on Day 2, so if you’re looking for a very leisurely pace, you might find this a bit full-on.

This tour suits travelers who want to see Machu Picchu without the physical strain of extensive hiking, enjoy guided insights, and prefer a more streamlined travel experience. It’s ideal for those who value comfort and personal attention, and who don’t mind a structured day with little free time outside the guided visit.

Key Points

• Comfortable and Hassle-Free: All logistics are handled, including train and bus transfers and overnight accommodation.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 12 travelers, which means more personalized attention.
• Beautiful Scenic Travel: The train trip through the Sacred Valley offers stunning views of Peruvian landscapes.
• Guided Tour of Machu Picchu: Your expert guide highlights key sites like the Main Plaza, Circular Tower, and Royal Quarters.
• Includes Overnight Stay: You’ll rest overnight in Aguas Calientes, giving you more time at the site.
• Timing and Flexibility: Slightly tight schedule on Day 2, with train options around 6:20 pm or late evening at 9:50 pm.

In-Depth Review of the Machu Picchu By Train 2 Days Tour

The Booking and Price Point

At $397.44 per person, this tour offers a convenient way to visit Machu Picchu without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. The price includes hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes, train tickets, bus transfers, and a guided tour of the site. While meals are not included, the stabilized logistics and small-group setting justify the cost, especially given the high demand—most travelers book about 23 days in advance.

Why Choose This Tour?

We appreciate the organized approach—from the pick-up at your Cusco hotel at 10:30 am to the transfer to Ollantaytambo, and then the scenic train journey. The trip takes about an hour and 45 minutes, crossing the lush landscapes of the Sacred Valley. During this train ride, you’ll get a real sense of the terrain and natural beauty that surrounded the Incas. The train itself is a comfortable and scenic way to travel, avoiding the rougher roads and strenuous walk of alternative routes.

Day 1: From Cusco to Aguas Calientes

The day starts with a pickup from your hotel, an important convenience that saves you from navigating local transport. The journey to Ollantaytambo is straightforward, and the train departs around 12:55 pm, arriving in Aguas Calientes around 2:30 pm. Once you arrive, a transfer or hostel staff will help you settle into your accommodation.

The highlight here is the relaxing train ride—a chance to see the Sacred Valley’s vibrant scenery and maybe spot some local wildlife. You’ll have some free time to explore Aguas Calientes or visit local hot springs if you arrive early enough, which many reviews mention as a relaxing prelude to the next day’s adventure.

Day 2: Visiting Machu Picchu

An early morning bus takes you from Aguas Calientes to the Santuario Historico de Machu Picchu. The bus ride is quick but steep, offering a scenic ascent up the mountain. Once on site, your guide will lead a two-hour tour, covering essential areas like the Main Plaza, Circular Tower, Solar Clock, and Royal Quarters. This guided experience is invaluable, as it provides context and helps you appreciate the site beyond just snapping photos.

After the tour, you’ll have free time for personal exploration—taking pictures, wandering around, or just soaking in the atmosphere. The tour’s schedule is fairly tight, with the return train options at 6:20 pm or the late evening at 9:50 pm, so you’ll want to plan your time wisely.

The Logistics and Group Size

One of the biggest advantages of this tour is the small-group size—a maximum of 12 travelers. This means more chance for questions, better interaction, and a less rushed experience in some ways. Transport is included from Cusco to Ollantaytambo and back, with trains connecting Aguas Calientes and Ollantaytambo, streamlining what could otherwise be complicated logistics for independent travelers.

Authentic Experiences and Reviews

Travelers, like Fernando, share positive experiences: “The tour was incredible, and the guide Yesenia was very kind. Since it was just my wife and me, everything went at our pace and she could give us quite a bit of attention.” This highlights the value of small groups and personalized service.

However, some reviews note minor drawbacks, such as the hotel not meeting expectations or the packed schedule leaving little room for extra activities. It’s clear that this tour is designed for efficiency and comfort, rather than leisure or extended exploration.

Practical Considerations

While the tour is well-organized, travelers should be aware that it does not include meals beyond breakfast in Aguas Calientes. You’ll need to budget extra for lunch and dinner, which can be an opportunity to try local cuisine. Also, the late return train options mean you should be prepared for a long day, especially if you want to maximize your time at Machu Picchu.

Final Thoughts on Value

This tour offers a balanced combination of comfort, guided insight, and scenic travel for those who prefer to avoid strenuous hikes or complicated logistics. You get a quality experience without the need to plan every step, which is especially valuable if you’re pressed for time or traveling with family or older travelers.

The inclusion of an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes allows you to enjoy Machu Picchu in the morning light and avoid the early rush that day-trippers face. Plus, the small group makes the experience more intimate and engaging.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who want to see Machu Picchu comfortably and efficiently, especially if they prefer guided tours with personalized attention. It’s ideal for those who value hassle-free logistics, like overnight accommodations and scenic train rides, over extensive physical activity. If you’re traveling with family, or simply want a relaxed, well-organized visit, this tour hits the right notes.

However, if you’re seeking a more independent or adventurous experience, such as hiking the Inca Trail or exploring the site on your own timetable, you might want to look elsewhere.

FAQ

Is transportation included from Cusco?
Yes, the tour includes transport from Cusco to Ollantaytambo and back, as well as train tickets between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes.

Does the tour include hotel accommodation?
Yes, you will stay overnight in Aguas Calientes, with the specific hotel arranged as part of the tour package.

What time does the tour start?
The pickup from your Cusco hotel is at around 10:30 am, with the plan to catch the train at 12:55 pm.

Are meals included?
Only breakfast is included in Aguas Calientes. Lunch and dinner are not included, so travelers should plan for meals independently.

How long is the guided tour at Machu Picchu?
The guided portion lasts about two hours, covering main sites like the Main Plaza, Circular Tower, and Royal Quarters.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, especially those who prefer not to hike extensively. The tour is designed to be accessible, but some walking and bus rides are involved.

What are the train options for returning to Cusco?
You can choose to return on trains departing around 6:20 pm or at 9:50 pm from Aguas Calientes.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 23 days ahead, as demand for these small-group tours can be high.

Can I customize the experience?
This is a guided group tour with set timings and inclusions, so customization is limited. However, you can arrange additional activities or sightseeing outside the tour.

In all, this Machu Picchu by Train 2-Day Tour offers a well-rounded, comfortable way to experience one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites. It balances scenic travel, expert guidance, and convenient logistics—especially suited for travelers who prefer not to rough it but still want authenticity and a memorable adventure.