Machu Picchu Full Day

Machu Picchu, Cusco Easy

Machu Picchu Full Day

Visit one of the Wonders of the World!

2,430 mabove sea level
1983UNESCO World Heritage Site
2007New Seven Wonders of the World
3official visitor circuits

Tour details

  • Duration Full day
  • Max. group 8 people
  • Languages EN / ES
  • Difficulty Easy
  • Departures Daily departures
Tour type
Archaeological, cultural and nature
Places visited
CuscoMachu Picchu

About this tour

Machu Picchu is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, known as the Inca llaqta (city), and Peru’s most iconic destination. Revealed to the world by Hiram Bingham in 1911 and carefully restored over many years, the citadel sits at 2,400 meters (8,000 feet) above sea level, surrounded by dramatic mountains in the middle of the cloud forest. It is a masterpiece of Inca engineering in perfect harmony with the landscape, which is why UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site. Considered the most impressive architectural achievement of the Inca Empire, built under the rule of Pachacuteq, it served as a political, religious and administrative center, with temples, terraces and water channels all around. Your local guide will take you to several viewpoints for stunning photos of its temples, terraces and canals. Towering ahead is Huayna Picchu (an optional add-on, subject to availability); if you want to include it, be sure to book at least 3 to 4 months before you arrive in Cusco.

On the way to Machu Picchu, you’ll enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the Sacred Valley of the Incas and some of its most remarkable archaeological sites from the train window.

Typical large-group tours often mean late pick-ups and crowded transportation, and it can be hard to ask questions or even hear what the guide is saying.

With Peruvian Path, you can forget about all that. We make sure you travel in comfort and at your own pace, visiting not only the highlights of Machu Picchu but also spots that large groups usually skip — perfect for the best photos. Our private tours are tailored to your needs, and throughout the visit your guide brings the remarkable story of the Incas to life, taking you back in time for an unforgettable experience.

Short on time? This tour is perfect for you. We’ll help you pick the ideal day to explore the Inca city and make the most of every minute. Join us solo, as a couple or with your group!

Highlights

  • Licensed Peruvian Path guide
  • Time to relax in the historic town
  • Visit one of the 7 Wonders of the World
  • 100% satisfaction guarantee

Machu Picchu circuits

Access to the citadel is organized into official circuits with fixed routes. We help you choose the best one for your interests and secure your ticket in advance.

1

Circuit 1 — Panoramic

Upper terraces and the classic postcard view. Includes routes to Machu Picchu Mountain, the Sun Gate or the Inca Bridge.

2

Circuit 2 — Classic

The most complete route through the citadel: temples, plazas and the main Inca buildings. Ideal for a first visit.

3

Circuit 3 — Royalty

Lower sector of the citadel with access to Huayna Picchu, the Great Cavern or Huchuy Picchu, depending on the ticket.

Day-by-day itinerary

  1. Full Day by Expedition train from Cusco Machu Picchu

    4:00 am: Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley
    6:10 am: Train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
    7:40 am: Meet at the train station and take the bus to the Machu Picchu entrance
    9:00 am: Guided tour of Machu Picchu
    11:30 am: Leave Machu Picchu and ride the bus back to Aguas Calientes (without guide)
    12:30 pm: Arrive in Aguas Calientes; free time for lunch

    Return train to Ollantaytambo in the afternoon/evening (subject to availability)
    Private transfer upon arrival at Ollantaytambo station.
    Drop-off at your hotel.

  2. Full Day from Cusco or as a connection Machu Picchu

    4:00 pm: The day before, or after the Sacred Valley Full Day tour – pick-up from your hotel
    4:30 pm: Train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
    6:10 pm: Arrive at Aguas Calientes train station and check in at your hotel
    7:00 am: Next morning, pick-up from your hotel and bus to Machu Picchu
    8:00 am: Guided tour of Machu Picchu (approx. 2 hrs 30 min)
    10:30 am: Leave Machu Picchu and ride the bus back to Aguas Calientes (without guide)
    11:30 am: Arrive in Aguas Calientes; free time for lunch

    Return train to Ollantaytambo in the afternoon/evening.
    Private transfer upon arrival at Ollantaytambo station.
    Drop-off at your hotel.

    Prefer to travel on the Vistadome train? You can find that option here.
    Preferred entry time (let us know as soon as possible so we can confirm it)
    Pick-ups and drop-offs available between Ollantaytambo and Urubamba (and vice versa)

Getting there

TrainExpedition / Vistadome — PeruRail or Inca Rail
BusAguas Calientes – Machu Picchu (25 min)

What’s included

  • Hotel pick-up and transfer to the train station (and back)
  • Round-trip train tickets
  • Machu Picchu entrance ticket
  • Round-trip bus between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu
  • Private guided tour of Machu Picchu
  • Machu Picchu Mountain / Huayna Picchu entrance (private tours only, subject to availability)
  • Licensed local Peruvian Path guide fluent in English

Not included

  • Tips
  • Meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
  • Personal expenses such as souvenirs or other purchases

Before you go

  • Bring your ORIGINAL passport: it is checked at the entrance and on the train (copies are not accepted).
  • Tickets are personal and have a fixed entry time. Arrive at the control 30 minutes early.
  • Trains only allow a small backpack (up to 5 kg). Leave your suitcase at your hotel in Cusco.
  • Large bags, drones, tripods, single-use plastic and food are not allowed inside the citadel.
  • Weather changes quickly: bring a rain jacket, sunscreen, hat and insect repellent.

Photo gallery

Machu Picchu Full Day Machu Picchu Culture & archaeology Machu Picchu Full Day Machu Picchu Full Day

Recommendations

  • Wear comfortable lightweight shoes, a long-sleeved shirt, long pants and a rain jacket.
  • Bring your original passport for the Machu Picchu visit (copies are not accepted).
  • A bottle of water — 1 liter is recommended.
  • Insect repellent, sunscreen, sunglasses and a sun hat.
  • Pack a daypack of up to 5 kg for Machu Picchu. Leave large suitcases at your hotel in Cusco and bring only what you need.
  • Your camera or video camera.
  • A plastic bag for any trash you produce along the way.
  • The immigration card you received when entering Peru (hotels ask for it at check-in if you stay overnight in Aguas Calientes).
  • Extra cash

Video

Machu Picchu Full Day
Machu Picchu, Cusco, Peru

Frequently asked questions

About this tour

Where, how and when can I choose my preferred entry time at Machu Picchu?

As soon as you book with us, you'll receive an email asking about your Machu Picchu trip — your date, flights and a few other details. Please reply as soon as possible so we can start arranging everything; this helps us secure your tickets and make sure your experience is unforgettable.

AIRPORT PICK-UP: What happens if my flight is delayed?

Contact us on WhatsApp at +51 937696925 and we'll check whether we can reschedule your pick-up. Our drivers are booked for specific times, but we'll do our best to help. If our driver is unable to pick you up, you'll need to arrange your own transportation.

Can I travel alone?

Absolutely! Solo travelers can enjoy this unforgettable experience too. Just contact us and we'll help you plan your trip.

What will I see at Machu Picchu?

The Inca city offers spectacular views and remarkable structures such as the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Three Windows and the Intihuatana, where you can appreciate the site's architectural and cultural richness — and recharge your energy.

How much luggage can I bring on the train?

Train companies allow only 5 kg of luggage per person, so we recommend bringing a small backpack with just the essentials.

Are prices per person or per couple?

All prices on our website are per person.

How do I make changes to my booking?

Email us with your booking number as soon as possible and we'll take care of the necessary changes.

Can I take this tour if I'm pregnant?

Yes, during the first 3 months of pregnancy. After that, we consider it may be risky for you and your baby.

What happens if I'm late for the tour?

Unfortunately, we can't offer a refund, as the costs for that day have already been covered.

Do I need my passport to enter Machu Picchu?

Yes. Your entrance ticket is issued under your name and passport number, and it's checked at the entrance against your original passport. Bring the same document you used when booking.

Which circuit will we visit inside Machu Picchu?

Circuits are assigned by the Ministry of Culture based on ticket availability for your date. We always try to secure the circuit with the classic panoramic view, and we'll confirm it with you before your trip.

How long is the day, and what time do we get back to Cusco?

It's a long day: pick-up is very early (around 4:00 am, depending on the train schedule), and you'll be back in Cusco in the evening, usually between 8:00 and 10:00 pm.

Booking & payments

How do I book this tour?

Choose your date and number of travelers in the booking box and pay a 50% deposit online to confirm your place. You can also write to us on WhatsApp and we will help you with the whole process.

Which payment methods do you accept?

Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express), PayPal and bank transfer. The balance can be paid in Cusco before the tour.

What is the cancellation policy?

Refunds depend on how far in advance you cancel. Tickets already issued (Machu Picchu, trains) are subject to their providers' rules. Read our Payment & Refund Policy for full details.

How can I prevent altitude sickness?

Spend your first day in Cusco resting, drink plenty of water and coca tea, eat light and avoid alcohol. Plan high-altitude hikes after two or three days in the city.

Can I book this tour as a private tour?

Yes. All our tours can be private, with your own guide and transport and flexible times. Contact us for a quote.

Questions about this tour?

Ask a local specialist

Tell us your dates and group size. We will send you availability and a personalized quote with no commitment.

No commitment. We reply in less than 2 hours during office hours.

From $350
Book now