2-Day Guided Tour to Machu Picchu by Train

If you’re dreaming of visiting Machu Picchu but want to skip the long, exhausting treks, this 2-Day Guided Tour by Train could be your perfect match. Offering a well-balanced mix of comfort, adventure, and cultural insight, this package aims to give you an authentic experience without the physical toll of more strenuous routes. It’s especially appealing for travelers with limited time who still want to enjoy the wonder of Machu Picchu.

What we particularly love about this tour is its comprehensive itinerary, blending scenic train rides, well-paced exploration, and relaxing moments—like unwinding at hot springs or strolling through Aguas Calientes town. Plus, the inclusion of an experienced guide ensures you’ll get meaningful context and insider tips along the way.

One potential consideration? The cost of around $425 per person, which seems quite reasonable given the inclusions, but does include some extras like bus tickets that you’ll need to pay separately if you want the bus up and down Machu Picchu. Still, for the convenience and quality of experience, many find it to be an excellent value.

This tour suits those who seek a mix of ease and adventure, want to limit their physical exertion, and prefer the comfort of guided sightseeing. If you’re after a stress-free way to tick Machu Picchu off your bucket list, this package could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Comfortable travel with train and minibus transfers, avoiding long hikes.
• Expert guides enhance the visit with historical insights and photo tips.
• All-inclusive price covers most essentials, with some optional extras.
• Flexible options for hiking or bus transfer to Machu Picchu.
• Authentic experience with visits to town, hot springs, museum, and botanical garden.
• Suitable for travelers with moderate fitness levels and limited time.

Deep Dive into the Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting from Cusco, the tour kicks off with a pickup at 10:00 am, taking you on a scenic 2-hour drive through the Peruvian landscape to Ollantaytambo. This initial segment isn’t just transport; it’s a warm-up that sets the tone—giving travelers a chance to acclimate and enjoy views of the Sacred Valley. The mention of having breakfast beforehand or bringing snacks reminds us that this is a full day, and fueling up is key for the journey ahead.

Once in Ollantaytambo, the highlight is the train ride—departing at around 12:55 pm to Aguas Calientes. This leg is often a traveller’s favorite part because it combines comfort with incredible vistas of lush mountains and river valleys. Several reviews praise the train journey as “awesome,” with one reviewer noting it’s “very well organized” and expressing satisfaction over the scenic route.

Aguas Calientes: The Gateway Town

Arriving around 2:50 pm, you’ll find the town of Aguas Calientes, known for its lively yet relaxed atmosphere. It’s a typical tourist hub, offering restaurants, shops, and massages—perfect for unwinding after traveling. The tour includes a hostel stay with shared rooms, which many reviews describe as simple but adequate for resting before an early start.

While some travelers may prefer to explore small local markets or relax at a café, the main goal here is to prepare for the early morning ascent to Machu Picchu. The town’s proximity to the ruins makes it a strategic choice, avoiding the early morning rush from Cusco.

Reviewers highlight how straightforward this stop is—”there isn’t too much to do here,” but it’s enough for a good night’s sleep before the big day. Plus, the town’s many eateries allow for sampling local dishes.

Day Two: Machu Picchu and Surroundings

Early the next morning, the adventure continues with a walk or bus (cost not included) up to Machu Picchu. The walk is described as “stone steps with your fellow travelers,” offering a more intimate experience, but if you’d rather skip the physical strain, bus tickets are available for around $24.

Once inside the sacred site, your guide conducts a 2-hour tour, covering the Main Plaza, the Circular Tower, the Royal Quarters, and the Solar Clock. This guided segment ensures you don’t miss the highlights and helps you appreciate the archaeological marvels, even if you only have a few hours.

Post-tour, you’re free to stroll, take photographs, or soak in the views. Many reviews commend guides like Javier and Samuel, noting they’re “very knowledgeable,” “entertaining,” and “great at taking photos,” which adds to the overall enjoyment.

The Return Journey

In the afternoon, you’ll retrace your steps: train from Aguas Calientes back to Ollantaytambo and then a bus to Cusco, arriving around 6:20 pm. The 4-hour return trip is generally smooth, with some reviewers emphasizing how well-coordinated and stress-free the entire process was.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package covers minibus transfers, train tickets, hostel accommodation, and entrance to Machu Picchu—making it a quite comprehensive deal. However, bus tickets for ascent and descent are extra ($24), and meals, mountain hikes, and travel insurance are not included.

Many travelers appreciate the value here, considering the cost of train tickets and guided tours separately. Plus, the reviews frequently mention the professionalism of guides and smooth organization as huge plus points.

Transportation: Comfort and Convenience

One of the standout features of this tour is its seamless transportation. Starting with the minibus from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, the journey feels like a scenic introduction rather than just transit. The train ride is perhaps the most memorable segment, with panoramic windows offering views of rivers, mountains, and lush greenery—”scenic and relaxing,” as one reviewer put it.

The train service is a popular choice for travelers who prefer comfort over walking or strenuous hikes. It’s especially valuable if you’re short on time or not a fan of high-altitude trekking. The return train simplifies logistics, and the bus from Ollantaytambo back to Cusco wraps up the day efficiently.

Group Size and Personal Touch

With a maximum of 8 travelers per group, this tour maintains a small, intimate atmosphere. Reviewers frequently mention how guides like Javier and Samuel deliver personalized attention, answer questions, and make the experience more memorable. This small-group approach makes it easier to ask questions, get photo tips, or just enjoy a relaxed pace.

The Guide Experience: Knowledgeable and Engaging

Reviews consistently praise the guides for their depth of knowledge and engaging style. They are described as “friendly,” “informative,” and “great at explaining the history and significance of Machu Picchu.”

For many, the guide’s insights turn a simple sightseeing visit into an enriching experience—”Did a great job of discussing conservation and ongoing research,” noted one reviewer.

Guides also take the time to ensure everyone gets good photos, which many travelers appreciate—especially when capturing memories of such an iconic site.

The Value for Money

At $425 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded package: transportation, accommodation, entrance fees, and expert guidance. While some reviewers mention paying extra for bus tickets or guided tours separately, most agree that the overall value is high considering the convenience and quality of the experience.

Many rave about how stress-free and organized the trip was, indicating that the small additional costs for optional buses or extra visits could be worthwhile for those seeking comfort and efficiency.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This package is ideal for time-constrained travelers who want to visit Machu Picchu without dedicating days to hiking or camping. It suits those who prefer the security of guided tours and comfortable transport over rugged adventures.

It’s also a good fit for moderately fit travelers who are comfortable walking and climbing stairs but may not want the physical challenge of trekking the Inca Trail or Huayna Picchu.

Finally, anyone looking for a stress-free, well-organized experience with authentic insights and beautiful scenery will find this tour a worthy choice.

The Sum Up

This 2-day guided train tour to Machu Picchu stands out for its combination of comfort, efficiency, and authentic insight. It offers a balanced itinerary with scenic train journeys, expert guides, and memorable visits to key sites within Machu Picchu. The small group size and all-inclusive approach provide a personal touch often missing in larger tours.

While it does require an additional payment for bus transfers up and down Machu Picchu, the overall value remains compelling, especially for travelers who prefer to avoid the physical exertion of longer hikes. The reviews speak to the professionalism of guides and the quality of organization, making this a reliable option for those seeking a memorable yet manageable adventure.

If you appreciate guided tours that focus on authentic experiences, good value, and scenic comfort, this tour could be your best bet. It’s especially suited for travelers with limited time, moderate fitness levels, and a desire to see Machu Picchu without the hassle.

FAQ

Can I join this tour if I don’t have a Machu Picchu ticket booked in advance?
Yes, the tour includes the entrance fee to Machu Picchu, but if you want to visit specific areas like Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu, those are extra. For standard visits, no pre-booking of tickets is necessary.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience and easier interaction with your guide.

Are meals included in this tour?
No, food is not included, so you should bring snacks or plan to eat in Aguas Calientes or pack something for the journey.

Is this tour suitable for people with moderate fitness levels?
Yes, most travelers with moderate fitness enjoy this trip. The walking involved is manageable, but some reviews mention walking on stone steps or hiking slightly uphill, so a basic level of fitness helps.

What if I want to avoid the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu?
The tour price does not include the bus ticket, which costs about $24. You can choose to walk or take the bus—walking is an option if you’re physically capable and prefer to save money.

How reliable is the organization of the trip?
Reviews consistently praise the seamless organization, punctual transfers, and attentive guides, indicating a well-coordinated experience that minimizes stress.

This tour offers a great way to experience Machu Picchu comfortably and efficiently, blending scenic train rides, guided exploration, and authentic moments. It’s a solid choice for travelers who value organized comfort, expert insights, and authentic views over rugged trekking but still want a memorable, meaningful visit.