Tour To Machupicchu 2 Days by Train

Travelers dreaming of visiting Machu Picchu often face the challenge of balancing time, budget, and authentic experience. This 2-day tour from Cusco offers a well-rounded way to explore the iconic Inca citadel without feeling rushed, for $399 per person. It includes train rides, guided tours, and an overnight in Aguas Calientes, making it a practical choice for those who want to see Machu Picchu comfortably and thoroughly.

What we love about this trip is the combination of scenic train rides through the Andean mountains and the chance to experience Machu Picchu with a knowledgeable guide early in the morning—when the site is quiet and magical. Plus, the included overnight stay means you don’t have to cram everything into a single day, giving you time to soak in the atmosphere and explore at your own pace.

A possible downside is the fixed itinerary and non-refundable policy, which means you need to be sure of your plans beforehand. Also, note that you'll walk up from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (no bus), which may be a consideration if mobility is an issue. Still, for most travelers eager for a well-organized and scenic visit, this tour hits a sweet spot.

This experience suits first-timers who want a reliable, guided introduction to Machu Picchu, adventurers looking for a scenic journey, or anyone wanting a comprehensive package without the hassle of booking train tickets and entrance fees separately.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Package: Entrance fees, train travel, hotel stay, guided tour, and meals included.
• Scenic Travel: Enjoy breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and Inca ruins from the train.
• Early Start: Wake up at 4:00 am for the sunrise at Machu Picchu, a highlight for many.
• Authentic Experience: Guided tour provides rich insights into the site's history.
• Group Size: Limited to 15 travelers for a more personalized experience.
• Fixed Policy: Non-refundable, so plans should be set in stone before booking.

Starting Point: From Cusco to Aguas Calientes

The adventure begins early, with hotel pickups around 9:00 am. The journey takes you from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, a town famous for its impressive Inca architecture. Here, the real treat starts — the touristic train whisks you through the Andean landscape, offering views that seem straight from a postcard. Expect to see snow-capped peaks and Inca ruins along the classic trail, making the train ride itself a highlight.

Traveling by train is a comfortable way to cover the distance—most travelers appreciate the breathtaking scenery and the relaxing rhythm of the journey. It’s a good way to start the trip on a high note without the stress of driving or long bus rides. The train station in Aguas Calientes awaits at the end of the trip, where you'll transfer to your hotel for the night.

The Aguas Calientes Experience: Rest and Local Flavor

Once in Aguas Calientes, the tour includes an overnight stay at a local hotel, complete with dinner and breakfast. Travelers often find this part of the experience enjoyable because it allows some downtime and the chance to explore the small, lively town. Many reviews mention the hot springs as a relaxing option after a day of travel, although the tour itself doesn't include this activity.

The hotel stay is practical, giving you a comfortable base close to Machu Picchu. However, some guests have noted that the hostel accommodations can be noisy or basic, so temper expectations accordingly. The included dinner offers a taste of Andean cuisine, usually hearty and wholesome.

The Early Rise: A Sunrise at Machu Picchu

Day 2 begins at 4:00 am, an hour when the world feels calm and the anticipation builds. You’ll trek approximately 40 minutes to reach the entrance of Machu Picchu, arriving just as the sun begins to cast light over the ruins—a moment many travelers describe as truly magical.

Once inside, your guide—whose knowledge many reviews praise—will lead you through roughly two hours of guided exploration. Expect to learn about the incredible architecture, the sacred significance of different areas, and the clever engineering of the Incas. The guide will help illuminate the site's mysteries, making the visit more meaningful.

After the guided tour, you’re free to stay and explore at your own pace. You can climb to the Sun Gate for stunning views, or simply wander through the stone structures, imagining what life was like for the Incas.

Returning to Cusco: The Long Day

After soaking in the atmosphere, you'll walk back down from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes, pick up your backpack, and board the train back to Ollantaytambo. From there, the trip continues by bus or private transport back to Cusco, arriving around 9:30 to 10:00 pm.

This long day—around 14 hours total—can be tiring, especially after an early start and a full day of sightseeing, but most travelers agree the experience is worth it. The detailed planning helps reduce stress, and the scenery en route is spectacular.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour provides entrance fees, train tickets, hotel, meals, and professional guides — a comprehensive package that takes much of the planning off your plate. The round-trip train from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu is a highlight, offering a comfortable and scenic way to travel.

However, it’s worth noting what isn’t included: breakfast and lunch on the first day, dinner and breakfast on the last day, and bus transport from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu—which most travelers walk up. Some reviews indicate that the walking route can be a challenge, but it’s also part of the authentic adventure.

Authenticity and Quality: What Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and stunning landscapes as the main strengths. One reviewer raved about Jorge, their guide at Machu Picchu, calling him “the best,” and appreciated the helpful communication from the tour company beforehand.

On the flip side, some travelers have experienced disorganization or confusion, especially regarding logistics like train tickets or dinner arrangements. One reviewer mentioned that the hostel accommodations could be noisy, and some found the lack of an official guide at certain points a bit unsettling.

Overall, most agree this tour offers good value, especially given how much is included, and provides a reliable way to see Machu Picchu without the stress of planning every detail yourself.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, guided experience that combines scenic train travel, a comfortable overnight, and an early-morning visit to Machu Picchu, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for first-time visitors or those who want a stress-free way to see the site with expert commentary.

However, if you prefer more flexibility or are concerned about walking uphill and strict cancellation policies, you might want to consider alternative options or customize your plans.

This 2-day Machu Picchu tour by train offers a thoughtful balance of comfort, scenery, and guided exploration. It’s especially valuable for those who want to avoid the hassle of booking tickets and transportation separately and prefer having a knowledgeable guide to bring the site’s history to life.

The included overnight stay in Aguas Calientes allows you to enjoy Machu Picchu at a more relaxed pace and catch the sunrise—an experience many travelers cherish. While the itinerary is fixed and non-refundable, the overall experience tends to deliver excellent value given the scenic train ride, full-day guided tour, and well-organized logistics.

Ideal for first-timers, scenic lovers, and those seeking a reliable package, this tour makes the most of your limited time in the Cusco region while immersing you in one of the world’s most captivating archaeological sites.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour involves walking, including a 40-minute uphill trek to Machu Picchu and walking around the site. Travelers with mobility concerns should consider this.

Does the train ride offer good views?
Yes, many travelers praise the train for its scenic vistas of snow-capped mountains and Inca ruins, making it a highlight of the trip.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour organizes and includes the Machu Picchu entrance tickets (booked with 2 months in advance), along with all taxes.

What meals are included?
Dinner and breakfast are included in the hotel stay, and breakfast is provided on day 2. Lunch and dinner on the first and last days are not included.

Can I explore Machu Picchu on my own?
Yes, after the guided tour, you’re free to explore the site as long as you wish.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 15 travelers, providing a more intimate experience.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a water bottle, sun protection, and a jacket, especially for early morning at Machu Picchu.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate; however, consider the walking and early start if traveling with young children or elderly.

What is the cancellation policy?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed, so plan carefully before booking.

Who should I contact for more information?
You can reach Mega Expeditions at +51918033123 or via email at [email protected] for further questions or to customize your booking.

Embark on this well-organized journey to Machu Picchu and discover why millions find this trip unforgettable. Whether it’s the scenic train ride, the early morning sunrise, or the guided tour that captures your imagination, this 2-day package offers a rewarding adventure into the heart of Inca history.