From Cusco: Machu Picchu & Waynapicchu Mountain with tickets

Exploring Machu Picchu & Waynapicchu from Cusco: An Unforgettable Day Trip

Imagine starting your day in Cusco at the crack of dawn—around 4:00 a.m.—and ending it marveling at one of the seven wonders of the modern world. This tour offers a full-day adventure that takes you through stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, and incredible viewpoints, all with the comfort of a small group and expert guides, for $500 per person. You’ll visit Machu Picchu, hike up Waynapicchu Mountain, and enjoy a delicious local lunch in the town of Aguas Calientes.

What we love about this experience is how it balances a well-organized itinerary with enough free time to soak in the atmosphere of Machu Picchu. The fact that transportation—from hotel pickup to the train and bus rides—is all arranged is a significant plus, saving you the hassle of logistics. And the chance to hike Waynapicchu, with its breathtaking vistas over the ruins, makes this tour stand out.

However, a word of caution: the early start means you should be prepared for a long day and have comfortable shoes and sun protection on hand. Also, since the tour is designed for small groups, it can fill up quickly—so booking well in advance is advisable if you want to secure your spot.

This tour suits travelers who are eager to see Machu Picchu in a single day without the stress of planning every detail themselves. It’s ideal for those who appreciate guided insights and value a comprehensive experience that includes transportation, tickets, and a taste of authentic Peruvian cuisine.

Key Points

• All-in-One Convenience: From hotel pickup to return, transportation, tickets, and lunch are included, making it a hassle-free experience.
• Exclusive Access: Tour includes entrance to Machu Picchu and Waynapicchu, allowing you to explore beyond the typical viewpoint.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 10 participants ensures personalized attention and a more intimate adventure.
• Early Start: The tour begins at 4:00 a.m., perfect for beating crowds but demanding early risers.
• Scenic Journey: Travel through the Peruvian Andes by train and bus, offering incredible views along the way.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A detailed review of the Cusco to Machu Picchu & Waynapicchu Tour

The Itinerary: A Step-by-Step Journey

Starting at your Cusco hotel early in the morning means an energetic beginning, but it’s a small price to pay for the magic that lies ahead. We found that the 4:00 a.m. pickup, though early, pays off because it maximizes our time at Machu Picchu. The transportation to Ollantaytambo, a charming Inca town, takes about two hours, giving you an initial glimpse of the Peruvian countryside and the rugged terrain of the Andes.

Once at Ollantaytambo station, the real adventure begins with a comfortable tourist train — either Inca Rail or Peru Rail — which whisks you through lush valleys and misty mountains towards Machu Picchu Pueblo. The two-hour train ride is a highlight in itself, offering stunning views that make the journey feel part of the experience rather than just transportation.

Arrival and Transit to Machu Picchu

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes (also known as Machu Picchu town), a friendly guide from Chullos Travel Peru will meet you with a sign bearing your name. This personal touch helps keep things smooth after a long ride. From here, a 30-minute bus ride takes you up the winding road to the entrance of Machu Picchu. The bus is a necessity due to the steep ascent, but it’s quick and offers fantastic views—don’t forget your camera.

Exploring Machu Picchu

Once inside, the guide will lead you through the main highlights of the ruins, offering insights into their purpose and architecture. But the true highlight for many is the climb to Waynapicchu, a steep hike that rewards you with panoramic views over the entire site. You’ll have approximately 2.5 hours to walk around Waynapicchu, which stands at 2,693 meters and offers a series of switchbacks and steps—so good shoes are essential.

The entry to Circuit 4 also grants extra access to parts of the site less crowded and more scenic. Post-hike, you’ll descend and meet again in Machu Picchu town, where you can enjoy a lunch—a highlight in itself, as it’s included in the tour and gives you a chance to relax and talk about the morning’s wonders.

More Great Tours Nearby

Free Time and Cultural Vibes

The afternoon provides enough time to explore Machu Picchu village, a small but charming settlement with local shops and cafes. It’s a perfect place to enjoy a coffee or buy souvenirs, adding a touch of local life to this otherwise ancient site.

Returning to Cusco

The return journey mirrors the morning: bus down to Machu Picchu Pueblo, then a scenic train ride back to Ollantaytambo. The group then boards transportation back to Cusco, arriving around 8:30 p.m. This full-day schedule is intense but rewarding, especially for those eager to see Machu Picchu without multiple overnight stays.

The Experience: What Travelers Report

Many reviewers mention the efficiency of logistics—from hotel pickup to train and bus tickets—saving a lot of planning headaches. One comment echoes the feeling of “getting the most out of a single day,” with the early start helping avoid the busiest crowds.

Others appreciated the knowledgeable bilingual guides, who provided context and stories that made the ruins come alive. The inclusion of lunch was also a hit, giving us a chance to refuel after the morning’s exploration.

However, a few noted that the early start is demanding, especially if you’re not an early riser, and some wished for more flexibility in exploring Machu Picchu on their own. The small group size was definitely highlighted as a benefit, ensuring personalized attention and smoother coordination.

Transportation and Tickets

The train ride is a significant part of the experience, offering picturesque views that make the journey memorable. The round-trip train ticket is included, which simplifies the process and ensures you get a seat. The bus ride up and down from Machu Picchu is quick and efficient, with safety measures in place.

The entrance tickets to Machu Picchu and Waynapicchu are secured in advance, which is crucial because these sell out quickly. The circuit 4 ticket provides access to less crowded parts of the site, making for a more intimate experience.

Price and Value

At $500 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package—transport, tickets, guide, and lunch—all bundled into one. When you consider the convenience and the guided insights, it’s a fair value, especially during peak seasons when tickets often sell out. It saves you the hassle of booking each component separately and ensures you maximize your time at this iconic site.

Some travelers might find this a bit pricey compared to independent trips, but the peace of mind and time saved are valuable. Plus, the small group size enhances the experience, turning a popular attraction into a more personal exploration.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors who want a hassle-free, guided day trip with all logistics handled. It’s also great for those who prefer a structured experience and appreciate the added insights from bilingual guides.

However, if you prefer more flexibility or want to explore Machu Picchu independently, you might consider other options. Also, because of the early start and physical activity involved in hiking Waynapicchu, it’s best suited for travelers in good health who are comfortable with a full day on their feet.

The Sum Up

A day trip from Cusco to Machu Picchu and Waynapicchu, like this one, offers an excellent way to see one of the most iconic sites in the world without the need for multiple overnight stays. The included transportation, tickets, guide, and lunch make it a seamless experience—especially valuable in a busy travel itinerary.

While it demands an early start and involves a long day, the reward is witnessing breathtaking views, exploring the ancient ruins, and standing on a mountain ridge with a sweeping panorama. The small group size and guided approach ensure you won’t feel lost or overwhelmed, and the opportunity to hike Waynapicchu adds a sense of adventure to the trip.

This tour suits travelers eager for a well-organized, authentic experience with minimal hassle, and who want to make the most of a single day in this incredible part of Peru. If you’re ready for a full, memorable adventure packed with highlights, this trip from Cusco is a solid choice.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The pick-up begins at 4:00 a.m., aiming to maximize your day and beat the crowds at Machu Picchu.

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup, transfer to Ollantaytambo, round-trip train tickets, and the bus to Machu Picchu are all included.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Absolutely. Entrance to Machu Picchu and Waynapicchu are booked in advance and included in your tour. It’s recommended to reserve early since tickets sell out fast.

How long is the train ride?
The train ride from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu Pueblo takes about 2 hours each way.

What’s the total duration of the tour?
It’s a full day, starting at 4:00 a.m. and returning to Cusco around 8:30 p.m.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a local lunch in Machu Picchu town is part of the package.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
It’s ideal for travelers in good health who don’t have mobility issues, as it involves some walking and hiking. Not suitable for those with heart problems, vertigo, or recent surgeries.

If you’re looking for a well-rounded, guided day trip that covers all the essentials—transport, tickets, and a memorable hike—this tour offers excellent value and a chance to tick Machu Picchu off your bucket list comfortably.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby