Tour to Machupicchu By Train Full-Day

Exploring Machu Picchu in a single day is a popular choice among travelers looking to maximize their time in Peru without sacrificing the experience of visiting this iconic site. This full-day train tour, operated by Mega Expeditions, promises a seamless journey from Cusco, involving scenic train rides, guided tours, and free time to explore one of the world’s most celebrated archaeological sites. While it’s not a low-cost option, the convenience and immersive elements make it appealing for those eager to see Machu Picchu without extending their trip.

What we love about this tour is its efficient logistics—early pickups and all-inclusive arrangements—allowing travelers to focus on the experience itself. Plus, the opportunity to enjoy the stunning scenery of the Andes while traveling by train is genuinely special. On the flip side, some travelers have noted the absence of a continuous guide during the entire day and the need to be prepared for a long, sometimes tiring schedule. Still, this tour suits those who prioritize convenience and value the chance to see Machu Picchu in just a single day, especially if time is tight or you prefer an organized, hassle-free experience.

Key Points

• Seamless logistics with hotel pickup, train, and bus transfers included
• Expert bilingual guide for a two-hour detailed tour of Machu Picchu
• Stunning scenic train ride through the Andes with mountain views and snow-capped peaks
• Flexible free time to explore Machu Picchu independently, including options like Huayna Picchu
• Long but rewarding day starting at 4 am and returning around 10 pm
• Pre-tour briefing helps you prepare for the day’s adventure

The Itinerary: An In-Depth Look

Early Morning Pickup and Transfer to Ollantaytambo

The day begins very early—around 4:00 am—with pickup from your Cusco hotel, a crucial step to ensure you arrive at the train station in time. The journey to Machu Picchu is designed for efficiency, meaning you’ll avoid the need to book separate transportation or plan complicated transfers. The minivan ride to Ollantaytambo takes roughly two hours, but it’s far from boring; the scenery of the Sacred Valley and its snow-capped peaks makes the early start worthwhile.

Scenic Train Ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes

Once at Ollantaytambo station, you board the train at 6:10 am traveling for approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes. The train route is renowned for its spectacular views—passing through lush valleys, terraced mountains, and the rugged Andes. Many reviews highlight how enjoyable this part of the journey is, with passengers appreciating the opportunity to relax and soak in the scenery en route to Machu Picchu.

Bus Ride to Machu Picchu

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, the gateway village to Machu Picchu, your guide will meet the group and whisk you away by bus up the steep winding road to the archeological site. This bus ride offers a brief, yet striking ascent, giving travelers their first close-up views of the iconic ruins as they approach.

Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

The highlight of the day is a two-hour guided tour with a professional, bilingual guide. Expect to visit major sites like the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Three Windows, the House of the Priest, the Sacred Plaza, and the Intihuatana Stone. Many travelers mention the guide’s knowledge and patience, which adds depth to the visit and helps you better understand the significance of these structures.

Free Time in Machu Picchu

After the guided exploration, you are free to stay longer and explore on your own. This is a perfect chance to climb Huayna Picchu, the mountain offering breathtaking views, or to wander around the site at your own pace. The tour’s flexibility means you can enjoy the ruins in a way that suits your energy level and interests.

Return Journey and Evening Back in Cusco

The return trip begins with the train back to Ollantaytambo at 6:20 pm. Following that, a minivan whisks you back to Cusco, arriving around 10:00 pm—long, yes, but filled with unforgettable sights and experiences. Some reviews mention the late return as a drawback, especially for those with early next-day plans, but most agree the trip is worth the effort.

What the Tour Includes and What It Does Not

This tour offers a comprehensive package, including hotel pickup, train tickets, bus transfers, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu. The mobile ticket makes it easy to manage your reservations, and the small group size (up to 15 travelers) ensures a more intimate experience. The tour is priced at $358 per person, which, considering all logistics and guided insights, offers decent value for those without the time to arrange everything independently.

However, some reviews point out that ticket into Machu Picchu and bus tickets are included but that the experience might feel a little disjointed due to the lack of a continuous guide. For example, one reviewer noted, “This is not a typical tour with a guide who stays with you throughout,” which could matter if you’re seeking a fully guided experience from start to finish.

The Real Experience: What You Can Expect

Transportation is well-organized, but it’s important to be prepared for a very early start and a long day. The train ride is a highlight, offering panoramic views of the mountains, and many travelers find it one of the most scenic train routes in South America. The guided tour of Machu Picchu is thorough but focused on the most significant sites, giving you a good overview without overwhelming detail.

The free time after the guided tour is your chance to soak in the atmosphere, take photos, or climb Huayna Picchu if you’ve secured the extra permit. Those who love photography often praise the opportunity to capture the ruins from different angles and at different times of day.

Meals and additional expenses are not included, so bringing snacks or buying food in Aguas Calientes might be necessary, especially considering the long schedule. Also, since some travelers have mentioned waiting in lines for tickets, it’s wise to arrive prepared for light crowds at certain points.

How This Tour Compares to Others

Compared to other Machu Picchu excursions, this full-day train tour strikes a balance between convenience and immersion. It’s more streamlined than multi-day options and avoids the need for overnight stays, making it suitable for those with limited time. However, it does come at a higher price point—reflecting the included transportation, guide, and logistical ease.

Some reviews highlight that ticket management could be improved, with suggestions that tickets and bus transfers should be included or better coordinated to save time. Nevertheless, the overall positive feedback suggests that most travelers are satisfied with the value and experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for travelers who want to experience Machu Picchu without the hassle of planning every detail. It suits those with limited time in Peru, but who still want a comprehensive, guided experience. It’s also an excellent choice for solo travelers, as the small group size and organized logistics offer reassurance.

If you’re seeking scenic travel, expert guided insights, and the convenience of all-in-one booking, this tour checks all the boxes. Though it demands an early start and a long day, the payoff—witnessing Machu Picchu in one go—is well worth it.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

In essence, this full-day Machu Picchu tour from Cusco packs in a lot of highlights in a single day. The combination of scenic train rides, expert guides, and the awe-inspiring ruins makes it a compelling option for travelers wanting to see Machu Picchu efficiently. The convenience of hotel pickup and all logistics handled for you makes it suitable for those who prefer an organized approach.

While the schedule is intense, the early start and late return can be rewarding for energetic travelers eager to make the most of their trip. If you’re comfortable with a long day and want the comfort of a pre-arranged, guided trip, this tour offers genuine value.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or a fully guided experience from start to finish, you might want to explore other options. But for those who want a straightforward, well-organized, scenic adventure, this tour is a solid choice.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel in Cusco, making the start of your day smooth and hassle-free.

What is the duration of the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 18 to 20 hours, starting early in the morning and returning late in the evening.

Are train tickets included?
Yes, the tour provides train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and back, all arranged by Mega Expeditions.

Can I climb Huayna Picchu?
While the tour offers free time to explore Machu Picchu, climbing Huayna Picchu requires a separate permit, which is not included in this tour.

Is the guided tour of Machu Picchu extensive?
The guide provides a two-hour tour covering key sites like the Temple of the Sun and the Intihuatana Stone, offering good insight without overwhelming detail.

What if I want to stay longer in Machu Picchu?
You are free to explore after the guided tour for as long as you like during the allotted free time.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. It’s advisable to bring snacks or buy food in Aguas Calientes.

What is the group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

In summary, this full-day train tour to Machu Picchu from Cusco offers a practical, scenic, and well-organized way to visit the ancient city. Ideal for those with limited time or who prefer their logistics handled, it balances guided insights with free exploration. Though it demands a long day, the breathtaking views and iconic ruins make it a worthwhile adventure for many travelers.