2-Day Machu Picchu Tour by Expedition Train or Voyager Train

Introduction

Travelers dreaming of visiting Machu Picchu often face challenges securing tickets, especially during peak seasons or last-minute plans. This 2-day tour, combining comfort with authentic experiences, offers an appealing solution. It’s designed for those who want to maximize their time and views without the hassle of complicated arrangements.

What we love most about this tour are the stunning train journeys showcasing the vibrant landscape of the Andes and the jungle surrounding Cusco, and the knowledgeable guides who enrich your understanding of this spectacular site. Plus, it caters to last-minute planners by helping secure tickets when official channels are sold out — a real lifesaver.

However, a possible consideration is the short window of free time in Aguas Calientes, which might limit some travelers’ opportunity to explore more leisurely or visit the hot springs. Despite that, it’s an ideal choice for those who prefer a well-organized, immersive experience within a tight schedule.

In essence, this tour suits travelers who value convenience, expert guidance, and breathtaking scenery. It’s especially suitable for those who find last-minute tickets hard to obtain but still want to enjoy the magic of Machu Picchu in a manageable, well-structured way.

Key Points

• Two-day itinerary with a comfortable balance of travel, sightseeing, and free time.
• Includes train ride through scenic landscapes of the Andes and Cusco jungle.
• Last-minute ticket assistance ensures access to Machu Picchu even when official tickets are sold out.
• Expert guides deliver engaging insights into the site’s history and architecture.
• Comfortable hotel stay in Aguas Calientes enhances the overall experience.
• Transport logistics are well-organized, from hotel pickup to train and bus transfers.

The Journey Begins: Day 1

From Cusco to Ollantaytambo

This tour kicks off with a hotel pickup at 09:00, which is quite convenient for early risers eager to make the most of their day. The roughly 2-hour drive to Ollantaytambo is a good chance to relax and start soaking in the scenery. We loved the way the trip sets the tone — a mix of anticipation and scenic anticipation.

The Scenic Train Ride to Aguas Calientes

Once at Ollantaytambo station, you’ll board your train, either the Expedition or Voyager — both offering a comfortable, window-heavy experience. The 1 hour and 40 minutes train journey is, in our opinion, a highlight. The views of lush foliage, towering mountains, and the winding river below are captivating. You’ll pass through landscapes that seem to shift with every mile, making the train ride an attraction in itself.

Arriving in Aguas Calientes

Upon arrival at Aguas Calientes, the small town beneath Machu Picchu, you’ll be transferred to your hotel — with options like Raices Hotel or similar. The evening offers free time, which many travelers appreciate for strolling around, relaxing, or soaking in the hot springs nearby. Having a relaxed evening helps build energy for the grand visit to Machu Picchu the next day.

Exploring Machu Picchu: Day 2

Early Morning Bus to the Inca Citadel

At dawn, you’ll take a 30-minute bus ride up to Machu Picchu. This short trip is smooth and provides a gradual ascent that builds anticipation. Once at the site, your guide will lead a comprehensive tour of the main attractions: the guardian enclosure, the Temple of the Sun, the Intiwatana, the Temple of the Three Windows, and other key points.

Guided Tour Highlights

The guide’s commentary brings these stones and structures to life, explaining their significance and stories behind them. Most tours follow a circuit (either #1, #2, #3, or #4), which helps manage crowd flow and ensures you see the most important features. The expert guidance makes the experience more meaningful and less like just wandering aimlessly.

Free Time in Machu Picchu

After the guided tour, you have some free time to explore further or take photos. Expect to spend around 3 hours on site, which is sufficient to appreciate its grandeur but possibly limited if you want to climb Huayna Picchu or visit more hidden corners.

Return to Aguas Calientes and Lunch

Post-visit, you’ll descend back to Aguas Calientes by bus, leaving you with a few hours to enjoy lunch (not included). This is your opportunity to savor local cuisine or relax before heading back.

The Return Journey

In mid-afternoon, you’ll board the train for the journey back to Ollantaytambo. The return trip offers another opportunity to admire scenery and reflect on your adventure. The final transport leg will bring you back to Cusco, arriving around 8:30 p.m. — a long day, but packed with unforgettable sights.

What’s Included and What to Consider

This tour covers most essentials — transportation, train and bus tickets, entry to Machu Picchu, guiding services, and hotel stay. It’s a solid package, especially given the added benefit of last-minute ticket arrangements, which are notoriously difficult to secure.

The hotel stay in Aguas Calientes is a nice touch for a restful night, but keep in mind that meals are not included. Planning ahead for lunch or dinner is advisable. Also, tips and snacks are extra, which is common but worth budgeting for.

Real Traveler Perspectives

Many travelers have shared high praise for the guides, with comments like, “Our guide Paola Vargas was amazing! Had a lot of knowledge and passion,” demonstrating that engaging guides truly elevate the experience. Others found the last-minute booking aspect “brilliant,” especially for those who thought tickets were impossible to get.

The overall sentiment is that this tour offers a “once-in-a-lifetime experience” that balances accessibility with authenticity, making it a popular option among last-minute planners.

The Value of This Tour

At $330 per person, this package is quite competitive considering it includes train travel, guided tours, hotel, and transport logistics. While it’s not the cheapest way to visit Machu Picchu, it offers great value given the convenience and the assurance of securing a ticket during busy periods.

Travelers can avoid the stress of booking tickets independently or navigating complex transportation arrangements. Plus, the small group size (up to 10 people) allows for more personalized attention from guides and a more intimate experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for last-minute travelers who want to avoid the uncertainty of ticket availability. It suits those who appreciate scenic train journeys and want a comfortable, guided experience without the hassle of planning every detail. Adventure-seekers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and leisure will find this itinerary balanced and fulfilling.

It’s also perfect if you’re arriving in Cusco with limited time but still want to check Machu Picchu off your bucket list. The included hotel stay and organized transfers make for a hassle-free trip, especially useful if you’re new to Peru or prefer guided logistics.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Machu Picchu tour by train strikes a fine balance between comfort, authenticity, and convenience. Its standout features — the scenic train rides, expert guides, and last-minute ticket support — make it a smart choice for travelers who want to experience Machu Picchu without the stress of last-minute planning.

The journey offers a genuine sense of adventure, with breathtaking views and insightful explanations that deepen your connection to this iconic site. The included hotel stay and organized transfers also add to the overall ease, making this a well-rounded, value-packed option.

While the time spent at Machu Picchu is somewhat limited, the quality of the guided tour and the scenic travel routes compensate well. It’s particularly suited for those who prioritize reliable logistics and authentic insights over extended exploration.

If you’re seeking a well-structured, immersive experience that helps you conquer the challenges of last-minute ticketing, this tour deserves serious consideration. It’s an authentic, enjoyable way to tick Machu Picchu off your list — with an experience that leaves lasting memories.

FAQ

Can I join this tour if I am arriving last-minute?
Yes, this tour is particularly designed to help last-minute travelers secure tickets that are otherwise sold out online, making it a perfect option for those booking close to their travel date.

What if I want to visit Huayna Picchu or the Inca Bridge?
The tour’s ticket includes access to Machu Picchu, but whether you can visit additional points like Huayna Picchu depends on your specific ticket circuit and availability, which may require separate arrangements.

How long is the train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes?
The train journey lasts approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, offering scenic views of the mountains, rivers, and forests around Cusco.

Is accommodation included?
Yes, the package includes one night in a hotel (like Raices Hotel or similar) in Aguas Calientes, providing a restful base for your adventure.

Are meals included in this tour?
No, meals are not included. Travelers should plan for their own lunch and dinner in Aguas Calientes.

What is the group size?
The tour caters to a maximum of 10 travelers, allowing for a more personalized experience with your guide.

When should I book this tour?
Most travelers book about 12 days in advance, but last-minute availability makes it feasible for spontaneous travelers, especially as it helps secure tickets quickly.

This detailed review aims to give you a realistic, honest look at what you can expect from this 2-day Machu Picchu tour — blending scenic travel, expert guidance, and last-minute ticket support into an experience that’s truly memorable.