Machu Picchu 2 days Tour by Train

Machu Picchu 2 days Tour by Train: a practical way to see the Lost City of the Incas

If you’re short on time but eager to experience the magic of Machu Picchu, this 2-day train tour from Cusco offers a safe, organized, and authentic way to tick this wonder off your bucket list. For $380 per person, you’ll travel comfortably with roundtrip train rides, bus transfers, and a guided visit—a package designed to maximize your time and minimize hassle. The tour begins early, with pickup from your Cusco hotel, and takes you through scenic routes to one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world.

What we particularly like about this tour is the seamless coordination of transport—your bus from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, the train to Aguas Calientes, and the bus up to Machu Picchu—all arranged to make your experience smooth and stress-free. The professional English-speaking guides add valuable context and help you connect with the site’s enigmatic past. We also appreciate the flexibility of the itinerary, allowing you to explore at your own pace and learn about this mystical place.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes is not included. If the site is crowded or if you’re eager to spend more time exploring, planning a third day here is advisable—although it will involve an extra fee for train and entrance changes. Still, for those who prefer an efficient, well-structured trip without the hassle of logistics, this tour hits the mark.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate organized tours with clear logistics and are comfortable with early mornings. It’s especially good for last-minute bookings, as it’s typically booked 12 days in advance, and the tour’s reviews highlight how well it runs even with tight schedules. If you’re looking to see Machu Picchu without the stress of planning every detail, this package is a reliable option.

Key Points

• Convenient logistics with coordinated transportation from Cusco to Machu Picchu.
• Professional guides enhance your understanding of the site’s history.
• Flexible for last-minute travelers with bookings made around 12 days in advance.
• Cost-effective for a two-day experience, but extra costs may apply for additional days.
• Includes transportation and entrance tickets, but not accommodation or meals.
• Small group size (maximum of 10 travelers) for a more personalized experience.

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

The Packaging of Convenience and Authenticity

Traveling from Cusco to Machu Picchu by train is often considered the most comfortable way for most visitors, and this tour exemplifies that approach. The journey begins with an early morning pickup at your hotel—around 3:45 am—so you’re ready to catch the bus to Ollantaytambo, where the real adventure begins. The bus ride itself offers a scenic preview of the Andean landscape, with the winding roads revealing lush mountains and quaint villages.

Once at Ollantaytambo, you’re taken on a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, the small town nestled at the foot of Machu Picchu. The train is comfortable, and the route itself offers sweeping views—an essential part of the experience rather than just a means to an end. For many travelers, this leg is a highlight because it combines comfort with scenic beauty, setting the tone for what’s to come.

Day 1: From Cusco to Machu Picchu’s Gate

Your first day is mainly dedicated to travel and preparation. After arrival in Aguas Calientes, you’ll be asked to return in the afternoon to pick up your Machu Picchu entrance ticket for the next day. We like that the tour offers this 2-hour window for a guided visit, allowing you to learn about the site’s history and significance. The guide, whose expertise many reviews praise, will help you understand the architecture, the purpose of different structures, and some of the mysteries surrounding the site.

One detail our research highlights: this early booking system ensures you get your entrance ticket, which is often a challenge due to high demand. The tour’s organized approach means fewer headaches trying to navigate ticket queues or last-minute arrangements.

Day 2: Exploring Machu Picchu

The second day is the highlight. You’ll take the bus up from Aguas Calientes, arriving early at Machu Picchu—a good move as crowds build later in the day. Your guide will meet you at the pre-arranged spot for a 2-hour group tour. The group size is limited to 10 travelers, which means you’ll get more personalized attention and can ask questions freely.

If you booked the Circuit 2 (Llaqta) entrance, you’ll explore the main sections of the site, including the Central Plaza, the Intihuatana stone, and the Temple of the Sun. The guide’s insights help you appreciate the site beyond just taking photos—understanding its layout and purpose deepens the experience.

After the guided tour, you’ll descend to Aguas Calientes for lunch on your own. Then, it’s time to catch the train back to Ollantaytambo and transfer back to Cusco. The entire day is tightly scheduled but designed to give you a rich experience in a short time.

The Value of This Tour

For roughly $380 per person, this tour packs a lot into two days. The price covers all major transportation (bus, train, transfers), entrance tickets, and guiding services. Considering the cost of independent train tickets, bus fares, and entrance fees, this is a practical package especially for those who prefer not to piece everything together on their own.

What makes it a good deal is the reliability and ease it offers. As one traveler review states, “Tour was well organized, the rail and bus connections were seamless, staff are very professional, I like it.” This kind of streamlined experience reduces stress and maximizes the time you spend appreciating Machu Picchu.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

While the tour is excellent for convenience, it does not include overnight accommodation in Aguas Calientes. If you’re a traveler eager to spend more time exploring or want to see the sunrise at Machu Picchu, you’ll need to book a hotel, which adds to your costs and planning. Plus, the early start might be tough for some, but it’s necessary to beat the crowds and see the site at its most atmospheric.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors, travelers on a tight schedule, or those who want an organized, hassle-free experience. It’s especially suited to last-minute planners, as bookings are often made about 12 days in advance, and the reviews emphasize how smoothly everything runs even when time is limited.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Machu Picchu tour by train balances comfort, efficiency, and authenticity. It offers a well-orchestrated itinerary that lets you soak in the wonder of the site without the stress of organizing every detail by yourself. The combination of scenic transport, expert guides, and flexible options makes it a solid choice for travelers seeking a straightforward way to see one of the world’s most iconic landmarks.

While it doesn’t include overnight accommodation, it provides a comprehensive day-by-day experience that captures the essence of Machu Picchu’s majesty. If you’re someone who values professional organization and authentic guided insights—yet wants to keep things simple—this tour will serve you well.

FAQ

Is hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes included?
No, this tour does not include a hotel stay in Aguas Calientes. You’ll need to arrange and pay for your own overnight lodging if you want to stay longer.

What’s the pickup time from Cusco?
The pickup time is around 3:45 am, ensuring you arrive early enough for the bus and train connections.

Are entrance tickets to Machu Picchu included?
Yes, your entrance ticket is included in the price, and the tour helps you secure it for the specific day.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, given the small group size and well-organized logistics, but the early start may be challenging for some.

How long does the whole journey take?
The entire experience spans approximately 2 days, with travel, guided tours, and free time at Machu Picchu.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The itinerary is fixed, but planning a third day in Aguas Calientes for extra exploration is recommended if you want more flexibility.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 10 travelers, allowing for more personal attention from the guide.

Is gratuity included?
No, gratuities are not included and are appreciated given the quality of service.

Are meals included?
Meals are not included; you’ll need to buy lunch on your own on the second day.

When can I book this tour?
Bookings are usually made about 12 days in advance, but availability may vary, especially during peak season.

Embarking on this well-organized, scenic, and authentic Machu Picchu experience offers an excellent way to connect with this wonder without spending days on logistics. It’s especially suitable for travelers who prioritize reliable service, guided insight, and a hassle-free journey.