Breathtaking MachuPicchu FullDay Tour with First Class IncaRail Train from Cusco

Breathtaking Machu Picchu Full-Day Tour with First Class IncaRail Train from Cusco

Planning a trip to Machu Picchu? Many travelers dream of reaching this iconic site in comfort and style, and this full-day tour with first-class train from Cusco offers exactly that. Combining upscale train travel, gourmet cuisine, and expert-guided exploration, this experience promises to turn a visit into a memorable adventure. But is it worth the premium price? Let’s find out.

What really catches our eye about this tour are two standout features: the luxurious onboard amenities—especially the Observatory-Lounge carriage with live music and an outdoor balcony—and the gourmet meals crafted from local ingredients. These touches elevate the journey from a simple sightseeing trip into a true culinary and cultural experience. On the flip side, the price tag of over $900 per person might seem steep for some, especially considering the limited in-tour time. That said, if you’re a traveler who values comfort, excellent service, and a touch of elegance, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

This experience will appeal to those who want to combine their Machu Picchu visit with a relaxed, high-end journey and are willing to pay a premium for it. If you prefer budget options or more flexible schedules, other tours might suit you better. But for travelers craving a blend of luxury and culture, this full-day package offers plenty of appeal.

Key Points

• Premium train experience with first-class amenities and scenic views.
• Gourmet meals featuring Andean organic ingredients and regional wines.
• Includes a guided tour of Machu Picchu with roundtrip bus tickets.
• Comfortable transfer from Cusco hotels to the train station.
• Returns to Cusco around late evening, making it a full but satisfying day.
• Small group size (max 10 travelers), ensuring personalized attention.
• Slightly higher cost, reflecting a focus on comfort, service, and added touches.
• Ideal for those seeking an upscale, well-organized visit to Machu Picchu.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Starting early in the morning, around 8:30 am, you’ll be picked up from your hotel in Cusco and transferred to the Inca Rail station, where the journey begins at 9:30 am. From the moment you step aboard the first-class train, the experience feels special. The train itself is a highlight—featuring a luxurious Observatory-Lounge carriage where live music sets a relaxing tone, and an outdoor balcony offers sweeping views of the Andes as you wind your way toward Aguas Calientes.

The train’s onboard service is noticeably attentive. You’re welcomed with a drink, and as the hours pass, you’ll be treated to a three-course gourmet lunch. The menu is cooked with Andean ingredients like trout and quinoa, showcasing regional flavors in a fine dining setting. Accompanying the meal, travelers can select from a variety of wines and natural drinks, including both hot and cold options made from local fruits and herbs.

The scenery en route is spectacular. Expect to see lush valleys, rugged mountain peaks, and terraced fields—views that look like they’ve been taken straight from a travel magazine. The luxury of the train combined with the natural beauty outside makes for a journey that feels more like a voyage of discovery than just transportation.

Arriving at Aguas Calientes around 1:15 pm, the real adventure begins. Your guide will take you on a guided tour of Machu Picchu, covering its most striking areas and explaining their significance. The included roundtrip bus ticket ensures a smooth transition from the town’s train station to the archaeological site. After the guided exploration, you’ll have free time to wander, take photos, or simply soak in the atmosphere of one of the world’s most iconic landmarks.

The tour schedule allows for flexible visits—whether in the morning or afternoon—depending on your train tickets. After about three and a half hours at the site, you’ll return to Aguas Calientes and have some time to explore the town or hunt for souvenirs at the local market.

At around 5:00 pm, you’ll board the return train to Poroy, again enjoying the onboard luxury, including the same gourmet meal and live music entertainment. The journey back is quite scenic, with the Andes providing a stunning backdrop. You’ll arrive back in Cusco around 10:30 pm, tired but enriched.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The package covers most essentials: hotel pickup and drop-off, all taxes and fees, a professional guide, bottled water, coffee and tea, and alcoholic beverages. The three-course meals—lunch and dinner—are part of the package, emphasizing a gourmet experience that’s rare among standard tours.

However, a few points are worth noting. First, this is a group service with a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring intimacy but requiring punctuality. The pickup time is early, and if your hotel is outside Cusco’s city center, there might be an extra fee. Also, because it’s a full day with some physically demanding moments (like stepping up into Machu Picchu), travelers should be reasonably fit and allow at least a couple of days of acclimatization in Cusco beforehand.

The tour does not include breakfast, so packing snacks or arriving early for a quick bite is advisable. On top of that, the price might seem high, but when considering luxury train travel, gourmet meals, guided tours, and all transportation, it begins to look like a comprehensive package that balances comfort with culture.

Authentic Feedback from Past Travelers

A few reviews highlight the positive aspects: “Extra attention to detail makes the experience memorable,” says one traveler, praising the courteous staff and thoughtful amenities like tea and snacks. Others mention the efficiency and comfort of the organization, with comments like “very comfortable and attentive service from Emperatriz and Julio,” emphasizing the quality of the onboard experience.

On the other hand, some travelers encountered issues with the train service, such as cancellations. It’s important to double-check the schedule and be prepared for possible disruptions, especially during peak or uncertain seasons.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re someone who appreciates comfort, appreciates fine dining, and values a well-organized, small-group experience, this tour offers a compelling way to visit Machu Picchu. It’s perfect for travelers who want to avoid the hustle of budget options and prefer a more relaxed, upscale journey that combines stunning scenery, excellent service, and cultural enrichment—all in one day.

The experience’s luxury touches, like the Observatory-Lounge carriage and gourmet menus, elevate the typical day trip into a special occasion. While the price may be a consideration, many will find that the added comfort and personalized service justify the expense, especially if they’re celebrating a special trip or seeking a memorable adventure.

However, if cost is a primary concern or if you prefer a more flexible, self-guided schedule, other options might suit you better. Still, for those who value a seamless, high-end experience with a touch of elegance, this tour stands out as a well-curated, enjoyable way to see Machu Picchu.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs from Cusco early in the day, with pickup at 8:30 am and the train leaving at 9:30 am.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup within Cusco City Centre. If your hotel is outside the center, there may be an extra fee.

How long does the train ride last?
The train journey from Cusco to Aguas Calientes on the first-class Inca Rail takes approximately 2 hours, with scenic views along the way.

What meals are included?
You’ll enjoy a three-course gourmet lunch on the train, cooked with Andean ingredients, and a similar meal on the return journey. Beverages, including regional wines, are also included.

Can I choose my visiting time at Machu Picchu?
Yes, your ticket allows you to visit either in the morning or afternoon, depending on your schedule and train tickets.

How long do I have at Machu Picchu?
You will have around 3 hours for guided tour and free exploration, which many find sufficient to see the highlights and take photos.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, water, and a camera. A fleece or rain jacket is advisable depending on the weather. It’s also recommended to carry snacks, as breakfast isn’t included.

What is the dress code?
Casual comfortable clothing is perfect, but consider layers for altitude change and weather variations.

What about the return journey?
The return train departs around 6:30 pm, arriving in Cusco around 10:30 pm. The experience includes onboard entertainment and meals again.

This luxurious Machu Picchu day trip combines scenic train travel with gourmet dining and expert guidance, making it ideal for travelers seeking comfort and elegance. While it may not be the most budget-friendly option, the experience of traveling in style and savoring regional flavors makes this journey one to remember.