Private Shuttle from Cusco to Ollantaytambo: A Seamless Start to Your Machu Picchu Adventure
If you’re planning to visit Machu Picchu, chances are you’ll start your journey in Cusco, the historical heart of Peru. Traveling between Cusco and Ollantaytambo is a critical leg of that trip, and doing so with a private shuttle can make all the difference in how smoothly your adventure begins. For $55 per person, Viagens Machu Picchu offers a private, air-conditioned transfer that takes about two hours — enough time to relax, enjoy the scenery, and prepare for the next leg of your journey.
What we love about this service is the flexibility and reliability it offers — your driver tracks your flight or train arrival, waiting patiently if there’s any delay. Plus, the comfort of a private vehicle means avoiding crowded buses or confusing shared transfers. Another highlight is the door-to-door pickup and drop-off, which means you don’t have to worry about navigating unfamiliar streets or hailing taxis.
One possible consideration is that, if you’re traveling solo or in a very small group, this service is still a fixed price and might seem a bit more costly than local shared options, but the added convenience and comfort often outweigh the extra expense.
This shuttle service is perfect for travelers who value timing and comfort, especially if you’re arriving into Cusco after a long flight or have a tight schedule to catch a train. It suits those who prefer a stress-free, door-to-door transfer rather than figuring out local transportation on their own.
Key Points
- Reliability: Drivers track your flight/train, ensuring timely pickups despite delays.
- Comfort: The vehicle features air conditioning, vital for Cusco’s chilly weather.
- Convenience: Private, door-to-door service minimizes stress and saves time.
- Flexibility: You can request different pickup times, including from Ollantaytambo station.
- Simplicity: Mobile tickets and group discounts make planning straightforward.
- Value: At $55 per person, it offers peace of mind for a critical transit leg.
Why Choose This Private Shuttle?

Traveling from Cusco to Ollantaytambo is often overlooked, but it’s a crucial part of your Machu Picchu experience. This private shuttle service is designed to give you peace of mind and a comfortable ride, especially after a potentially exhausting flight or early morning departure. The fact that your driver monitors your flight suggests a high level of professionalism and attentiveness — a real plus if you’re unfamiliar with local transport options.
We loved the way the service ensures you’re not left waiting in unpredictable situations. As one reviewer, Katrina, mentioned, “Was great professional service. Arrive on time and got us there safely and on time for the train. Very good.” That kind of reliability is priceless when you’re on a tight schedule to visit Machu Picchu or catch a train.
The air-conditioned vehicle is a thoughtful touch, helping you stay comfortable during the two-hour ride, especially useful considering Cusco’s high altitude and often chilly climate. Plus, the 24/7 availability means you can book for any arrival time, offering great flexibility for different flight schedules.
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The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Ride

Once your flight lands or your train arrives in Cusco, you’ll be greeted by a friendly, professional driver who will assist with your luggage and escort you to your private vehicle. For arrivals, you’ll typically have a 60-minute window after your scheduled landing, giving you a buffer in case of delays. This is especially helpful if your flight gets in late or if your travel plans change unexpectedly.
On the way to Ollantaytambo, you can sit back and enjoy the scenic views that surround this ancient Inca city. While the ride itself is straightforward — about two hours — it’s the peace of mind knowing your driver is tracking your travel that stands out. You’ll notice the comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle as a welcome respite from the cooler climate of Cusco.
For departures from Cusco to catch a flight, the shuttle is scheduled to pick you up four hours before your scheduled departure time, giving ample leeway to arrive at the airport stress-free. If you need a different pickup time — say, from Ollantaytambo train station — just ask when booking.
What’s Included and What’s Not

The service includes a private, air-conditioned vehicle and personal transportation—ideal for privacy and flexibility. It does not include onboard restrooms or WiFi, which are understandable omissions considering the short duration and focus on comfort.
While you won’t get onboard amenities like WiFi, the real value lies in reliable timing and personalized service. You also have the assurance of full cancellation flexibility if your plans change more than 24 hours in advance.
Authenticity and Review Highlights
With a pristine 5-star rating based on 7 reviews, travelers consistently praise the service’s professionalism and punctuality. Katrina’s review encapsulates this perfectly: “Arrive on time and got us there safely and on time for the train. Very good.” Such comments reinforce that this service is dependable — a vital factor when managing a tight schedule for visiting Machu Picchu.
The fact that this tour is booked an average of 61 days in advance suggests travelers recognize the value of pre-arranged, trustworthy transportation.
Deep Dive: Why This Transfer Matters

Getting from Cusco to Ollantaytambo might seem like a straightforward drive, but in reality, it’s an important transition. A smooth, comfortable ride gets you mentally prepared for the awe-inspiring experience ahead. Plus, this service alleviates the stress of navigating local buses or hailing taxis, especially after a flight or early start.
The flexibility to schedule pickups from train stations or hotels adds another layer of convenience, helping you customize your journey. Whether you’re arriving late or need to adjust for train schedules, this service adapts to your needs.
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Who Will Benefit Most?

This shuttle service is especially suited for first-time visitors, those arriving late into Cusco, or travelers with tight schedules. If you’re eager to start your Machu Picchu adventure without hassle, paying a bit more for this private transfer offers peace of mind.
It’s also ideal if comfort and punctuality are key priorities, or if you simply prefer a stress-free start or end to your travel day. Solo travelers, families, or groups will all appreciate the personalized service, making the journey part of the overall experience rather than just a necessary leg.
Final Thoughts

Choosing a private shuttle from Cusco to Ollantaytambo isn’t just about getting from point A to B — it’s about setting the right tone for your trip. The convenience, reliability, and comfort make this a valuable option, especially considering the importance of timing when catching trains or flights.
While it costs a bit more than traditional shared options, the peace of mind and tailored service often justify the expense. For travelers who prioritize a smooth, stress-free start or finish to their Machu Picchu journey, this private shuttle is hard to beat.
Overall, it’s a dependable and thoughtfully organized service that helps ensure your Peru adventure begins and ends on a high note.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I book this shuttle in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book at least 61 days in advance, especially during peak travel times.
What if my flight is delayed?
Your driver monitors your flight status and will wait if there are delays, up to 60 minutes after your scheduled landing.
Is the vehicle air-conditioned?
Yes, all transfers include a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle suitable for Cusco’s cooler weather.
Can I be picked up from Ollantaytambo train station?
Absolutely, just confirm your train arrival or departure time when you book, and the driver can pick you up or drop you off there.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before your scheduled pickup or transfer. Less than 24 hours, and your payment is non-refundable.
Are children or service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate comfortably.
Does the service include WiFi or restroom facilities?
No, WiFi and restrooms are not included on board. The focus is on reliable, private transportation.
Is this service suitable for solo travelers?
Definitely. Solo travelers find the private service offers added safety, comfort, and ease of coordination.
To sum it up, this private shuttle from Cusco to Ollantaytambo offers much more than just transportation. It provides peace of mind, comfort, and a smooth start or end to your travel day. If reliability and personalized service are your priorities, especially when time is tight, this option is well worth considering. Whether you’re arriving late, catching a train, or simply want to avoid the hassle of public transport, this shuttle can help you focus on what truly matters: enjoying your journey through Peru.
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