Machu Picchu With Train From Ollantaytambo

Travelers seeking an authentic adventure in Peru often look to visit Machu Picchu, and a popular way to do so is via a train journey from Ollantaytambo. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, we’ve researched it thoroughly to give you a detailed, honest overview of what to expect. This particular tour, operated by New Adventures Peru Travel, offers a well-balanced mix of comfort, expert guidance, and flexibility, making it a tempting choice for those wanting to experience this wonder in a single day.

What we really appreciate about this trip is the focus on local expertise and culture—the guides are praised for their caring, knowledgeable approach, which can make a big difference when exploring such a significant site. We also love the convenience of private transportation and the clear itinerary that balances guided discovery with free time to explore Machu Picchu on your own.

However, a potential consideration is the long day’s schedule—starting early at 5:00 AM and returning late in the evening—which might be tiring for some travelers. Also, the lunch is not included, so you’ll need to budget extra time and money for that meal.

This tour suits those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day trip with guided insights, especially if you’re pressed for time but want to tick Machu Picchu off your list. It’s ideal for first-time visitors, history enthusiasts, or anyone valuing expert guidance in a small, private group setting.

Key Points

• Combines train, bus, and guided tour for a full-day experience.
• Led by caring, knowledgeable local guides.
• Private transportation offers comfort and convenience.
• Includes free time for personal exploration.
• Not ideal for travelers on a tight budget due to the extra costs for meals.
• Well-suited for first-time visitors or those wanting a guided experience.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Early Morning Pickup and Transfer

The day kicks off at 5:00 AM with pickup from your Cusco hotel. This early start might seem daunting, but it’s essential to maximize your time at Machu Picchu. The transfer to Ollantaytambo train station takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving you a scenic glimpse of the Peruvian countryside—a good way to set the mood for the day ahead.

The Train Ride to Aguas Calientes

Once at Ollantaytambo, you’ll board a 2-hour train heading to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. The train ride is often praised for its comfort and scenic views, providing an alternative to bus travel that many find more relaxing and enjoyable. It’s a great chance to spot the lush landscapes and perhaps even catch a glimpse of local life along the tracks.

Bus Up to Machu Picchu

Arriving in Aguas Calientes, you’ll take a 30-minute bus ride up the mountain to Machu Picchu itself. The bus journey offers sweeping views of the surrounding valleys, and the anticipation builds as you approach the site. The bus is a practical way to handle the steep ascent, saving your energy for exploration.

Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

Once at Machu Picchu, the 2-hour guided tour is where the experience really comes alive. Your guide will highlight the most important sites, possibly including the Temple of the Sun, Inca Bridge, and other notable stone structures—though the specific stops aren’t listed, most tours focus on these highlights.

The guide’s insights help contextualize the ruins, making the experience more meaningful. After the tour, you’ll have free time to revisit areas of interest, walk through the Door of the Sun, or simply enjoy the stunning vistas on your own. If you’re interested, you can also explore additional sites like the Inca Bridge, adding a bit more adventure to your visit.

Return Journey and Lunch

At an appointed time, you’ll descend to Aguas Calientes via bus again, then enjoy some free time for lunch—though this isn’t included in the tour price. The town offers various options, from casual cafes to more refined eateries, so you can choose according to your taste and budget.

Return to Cusco

The day concludes with the train back to Ollantaytambo and a private transfer back to Cusco. This comprehensive route ensures you avoid the hassle of coordinating multiple transport modes yourself and maximizes your time at Machu Picchu.

What the Tour Includes and Excludes

Included:
– Private transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo station
– Train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
– Bus ticket up to Machu Picchu
– Guided tour of Machu Picchu
– Return train and transportation

Not Included:
– Breakfast and lunch (you’ll need to plan ahead for meals)
– Entrance tickets are included, so no surprise there
– Extra activities (like walking the Sun Gate or Inca Bridge unless you choose to do so independently)

The Experience of Traveling with New Adventures Peru Travel

Based on reviews, this operator gets high marks for their caring guides and drivers. One traveler praised the guides as “knowledgeable and caring,” noting that they responded well to altitude concerns and navigated the curvy mountain roads confidently. Such attentiveness can make a big difference, especially for visitors who might feel the effects of high-altitude travel or are unfamiliar with the local terrain.

The tour’s private nature adds a layer of comfort and flexibility, allowing your group to enjoy the experience without the pressure of large crowds. The early start, while potentially tiring, ensures you beat the crowds and enjoy a more tranquil encounter with Machu Picchu, which is increasingly popular and busy later in the day.

The Value of This Tour

At $391.31 per person, this trip offers a full-day, guided experience to Machu Picchu, combining comfort, expert knowledge, and flexibility. When you consider factors like transportation logistics, guided commentary, and the convenience of a carefully planned itinerary, it provides good value—especially for travelers who prefer a structured, worry-free day.

The price might seem steep compared to self-arranged visits, but it includes most transportation and entry fees, saving you time and stress. However, keep in mind that personal expenses like meals aren’t included, so budget accordingly.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors to Machu Picchu who want a comprehensive, guided day without the hassle of organizing transport and tickets themselves. It’s also well-suited for those who value local guides’ insights and prefer a more intimate experience rather than large group tours. The early start and long day might not appeal to everyone, but for those eager to see Machu Picchu with expert commentary, this is a reliable choice.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu with train from Ollantaytambo offers a well-structured, comfortable, and insightful way to experience one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites. The combination of private transport, scenic train rides, and knowledgeable guides ensures a smooth and enriching journey.

While it’s not the cheapest option, the added value of convenience, expert commentary, and the chance to explore Machu Picchu in a relaxed setting makes it a worthwhile investment—especially for those new to Peru or short on time. You’ll get to enjoy the majesty of Machu Picchu with some of the best local guidance, which often makes all the difference in creating lasting memories.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes private transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo station, as well as train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and bus tickets up to Machu Picchu.

Are entrance tickets included?
Yes, your admission to Machu Picchu is covered in the tour price, ensuring smooth access upon arrival.

Can I explore Machu Picchu on my own after the guided tour?
Absolutely. After the 2-hour guided tour, you’ll have free time to revisit areas or walk to sites like the Inca Bridge or the Sun Gate, depending on your interests.

What about meals?
Lunch is not included, so you should plan to bring a snack or purchase a meal in Aguas Calientes, where various dining options are available.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but the early start and long day may be tiring. It’s best for those comfortable with a full schedule and some walking.

What’s the quality of the guides?
Based on reviews, guides are considered caring, knowledgeable, and responsive, making the experience more meaningful and comfortable.

How long is the entire day?
The experience lasts approximately 15 hours—from early morning pickup to late evening return—so be prepared for a long but rewarding day.

Can I cancel or change the booking?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so plan accordingly.

In choosing this tour, you’re opting for a well-organized, guided adventure that covers the essentials—perfect for those looking to make the most of their day at Machu Picchu with expert guidance and comfort.