2-Day: Machu Picchu By Train from Cusco

A Practical Look at the 2-Day Machu Picchu By Train from Cusco

This 2-day tour from Cusco takes you through some of Peru’s most scenic landscapes, culminating in the unforgettable sight of Machu Picchu. For $407 per person, you’ll travel by minibus, enjoy a scenic train journey, and stay overnight in the charming village of Aguas Calientes. The tour is designed to give you an early entry to Machu Picchu, avoiding the crowds and maximizing your time at the site.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the small-group setup—limiting the tour to only 15 people—ensuring a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere. Plus, the inclusion of hotel accommodations and breakfast makes it feel like a well-rounded adventure, not just a rushed day trip. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the early start time; with a 4:00 am pickup, you’ll want to be prepared for a full day of travel and exploration.

This tour suits travelers who value guided insights, want to avoid the hassle of booking tickets independently, and enjoy a balanced mix of sightseeing and leisure. It’s perfect for those who want a taste of Inca history without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

Key Points

• Early access to Machu Picchu allows you to beat the crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience.
• Small-group tours create a more personalized, less rushed experience.
• Comfortable transportation from Cusco, including scenic train rides, adds to the adventure.
• Overnight in Aguas Calientes provides extra flexibility for exploring or relaxing.
• Expert guides enrich your understanding of Machu Picchu’s significance.
• Cost-effective package that combines transportation, entry, and accommodation for a full experience.

The Full Breakdown of Your Machu Picchu Experience

Day 1: Scenic Travel and Relaxed Evening in Aguas Calientes

Your adventure begins early, with a pick-up at 4:00 am in Cusco. From there, your comfortable minibus takes you through the Sacred Valley, where you’ll see vibrant Peruvian landscapes, terraced fields, and traditional villages. The ride is about a few hours, but the scenery makes the journey rewarding—think lush green hills and winding rivers.

Once in Ollantaytambo, you’ll board a tourist train bound for Aguas Calientes. This train ride, often lauded in reviews, is more than just transportation—it’s part of the experience. Expect window views of the Sacred Valley, with the landscape changing from highland mountains to jungle-like greenery. It’s an ideal way to relax after the morning’s early start and enjoy some of the most beautiful scenery Peru has to offer.

Arriving in Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu, you’ll check into your hotel, where a breakfast is included. The afternoon is yours—some travelers recommend visiting the Machu Picchu Museum and Orchid Exhibition just outside the village, a short walk away, offering insights into local flora and the history of the site. Or, if you prefer, you can unwind in the hot springs of Aguas Calientes (not included), soaking in mineral waters after a long day of travel.

Day 2: Early Rise for Machu Picchu and Return Journey

An early bus ride (included) whisks you up the mountain to Machu Picchu just as the site opens. This is when the magic begins—being among the first visitors to set foot inside this legendary city. Your guided tour lasts about 2 hours, during which your guide (often praised for their knowledge) will explain the key areas, from the Intihuatana stone to the Temple of the Sun, and share stories that bring the ruins to life.

After the guided portion, you’ll have free time—an opportunity to take photos, absorb the atmosphere, or simply sit back and enjoy the view. If you’ve secured permits for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, now’s your chance for a more rugged hike that offers stunning vistas (these optional climbs can add about 3 hours).

Post-visit, you’ll descend by bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch or a quick rest, then board the train for your return ride to Ollantaytambo. From there, a minibus transports you back to Cusco, concluding your adventure.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Authentic Guided Experience: The highlight of this tour is the small-group size, ensuring your guide can give more personalized attention. Travelers often praise guides like Luis for their patience and clarity—”he made sure we understood what was happening every step of the way,” one reviewer noted.

Early Access to Machu Picchu: Visiting the site as it opens allows you to enjoy the mystique and serenity that bigger groups miss. Many reviews mention how arriving early makes a difference, and you’ll love the way your photos turn out without crowds in the background.

Comfortable and Scenic Transportation: The combination of minibus, train, and bus ensures a smooth journey with plenty of opportunities to admire the landscape. Travelers frequently mention the beautiful scenery en route, making the journey as memorable as the destination.

Overnight Flexibility: Staying overnight in Aguas Calientes provides extra flexibility—you can explore the town, visit the hot springs, or just relax after a long travel day. This also opens the door to last-minute ticket opportunities, which some travelers have praised guides for helping secure.

The Value of This Experience

At $407, this tour might seem like a splurge, but it offers great value for a comprehensive, guided experience. The package includes transportation, entrance fees, hotel, and breakfast, which would be complicated and more expensive to organize independently. Plus, the early access and expert guidance help you make the most of your limited time.

While food isn’t included beyond breakfast, most travelers find Aguas Calientes has enough options for lunch and casual dining, often choosing to explore local cafes or markets before heading back.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

Travelers consistently mention the well-organized nature of the experience, with many feeling they received good value for the price. For those who prefer guided insights and a relaxing pace, this tour hits the right notes.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who wants to see Machu Picchu without the stress of planning every detail, this tour is ideal. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate small-group tours, want to avoid long lines for tickets, and enjoy early mornings and scenic train rides. If you’re looking for a balanced mix of guided history and free time, this experience will suit you perfectly.

It’s also great for people who prefer overnight stays rather than rushing in a day trip from Cusco—allowing for a more relaxed visit and additional exploration in Aguas Calientes.

FAQs

How early do we start the tour?
The tour begins with a pickup at 4:00 am in Cusco, so expect a very early start, but it pays off with early access to Machu Picchu.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, the train to Aguas Calientes, and the bus back to Machu Picchu are all included.

What is the accommodation like?
The tour includes overnight hotel stay in Aguas Calientes, with breakfast the following morning. The details depend on the provider, but reviews suggest comfortable options.

Can I climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
If you have permits, you can add these climbs during your free time after the guided tour. They take approximately 3 hours round-trip.

Is there a guided tour inside Machu Picchu?
Yes, your guide will provide a 2-hour guided tour, explaining the main features and history of the site.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, for a more personalized experience.

Are meals included?
Only breakfast is included. Food during the day is at your own expense, though there are plenty of options in Aguas Calientes.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, rain gear (just in case), a camera, water, and sunscreen. Remember, early mornings can be cool.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should consider the early bus ride and walking involved.

Can I cancel or change the tour?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Machu Picchu tour offers a well-rounded, thoughtfully organized way to experience one of the world’s most iconic sites. The combination of early access, small-group guidance, and an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes makes it stand out from simple day trips. You’ll love the scenic train journey, the expert insights from your guide, and the chance to explore Machu Picchu with fewer people around.

While the early start can be challenging, most feel the effort is worth it for the chance to see Machu Picchu at its most peaceful. If you value comfort, authenticity, and a personal touch, this tour is a great choice for your Peruvian adventure.

In summary, this tour is ideal for curious travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience with early access and overnight convenience. It’s perfect for those who want to really soak in the atmosphere of Machu Picchu without the chaos of larger groups or last-minute planning. If you want thoughtful support, scenic travel, and a trip that balances guided insights with free time, this is your best bet.