From Cusco: Full Day Tour of Machu Picchu by Tourist Train

Planning a trip to Machu Picchu can be an exciting yet daunting task, especially when it comes to navigating transportation and ticketing on your own. That’s where this full-day tour from Cusco by tourist train steps in to offer a hassle-free, well-organized experience. Designed for travelers who want to maximize their time and enjoy an immersive, guided adventure, this tour promises scenic views, expert guidance, and a comfortable journey to one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites.

What we love about this tour is how it combines convenience with authenticity: the package includes all transportation, tickets, and a small-group setting that keeps the experience intimate and crowd-free. Plus, traveling in comfort on the modern EXPEDITION or VOYAGER train adds a touch of style to the day. But, as with all popular tours, a potential downside is that it’s a long day packed with activities—so travelers should be prepared for an early start and full itinerary.

This tour is best suited for those who value a stress-free experience, want a guided tour to understand the site’s history, and prefer comfortable transportation over navigating public transport schedules. Perfect for first-timers or travelers who prioritize value and convenience, it also suits those traveling with a limited amount of time but eager to see Machu Picchu without the logistical headaches.

Key Points

• All-inclusive package with transportation, tickets, and guided tour
• Small-group experience (max 15), ensuring a less crowded, more personal visit
• Travel in style aboard EXPEDITION or VOYAGER trains, with scenic views
• Guided exploration of Machu Picchu lasting approximately 2.5 hours
• The tour begins early with hotel pickup and ends with drop-off in Cusco
• Price of $360 per person offers decent value considering all logistics included

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Scenic Journey through Sacred Valley

Your day kicks off with a hotel pickup, typically arranged within Cusco’s Historic Center, saving you the headache of finding your way to the train station. From there, the journey begins with around 1.5 hours traveling through the Sacred Valley — a corridor packed with picturesque Andes landscapes, terraced fields, and charming villages. This scenic ride sets the tone for the day, allowing a relaxing start rather than the chaos of public transport.

Ollantaytambo: Historic Train Departure Point

Your first stop is at Ollantaytambo, a site already steeped in history, and a major Inca archaeological complex. Here, you’ll board the EXPEDITION or VOYAGER train for a two-hour trip to Aguas Calientes. During this ride, you’ll be treated to sweeping mountain views, lush greenery, and perhaps the occasional glimpse of local wildlife.

One reviewer mentioned, “The scenery during the train ride was beautiful, and it was nice not to worry about multiple transfers,” highlighting how this part of the trip offers both comfort and a taste of Peru’s natural beauty.

Arriving at Aguas Calientes

Once you arrive in Aguas Calientes, a certified guide will be waiting to escort you to the bus that will take you up to Machu Picchu’s entrance. The ascent is about 30 minutes on a bus operated by CONSETTUR, the official service, and the switchbacks offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and cloud forests.

Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

Your guide will lead you on a roughly 2.5-hour tour exploring the main highlights of Machu Picchu. Expect to see key landmarks such as the Temple of the Sun, Royal Quarters, and the Intihuatana stone. The guide’s insights help you understand the significance of these structures, the engineering marvels, and the possible spiritual functions of the site.

Many reviews praise the guides: “The tour guide was very knowledgeable and made the complex history accessible,” and “You’ll learn interesting stories about the Incas, making the visit much more meaningful.” The guided portion allows you to appreciate the site beyond just taking photos.

Free Time and Lunch

After the guided tour, you’ll have some free time—typically for about an hour or so—to explore further, take photos, or buy souvenirs. Many tour operators suggest grabbing lunch at one of the local restaurants in Aguas Calientes, though this isn’t included in the price.

Return Journey

Post-lunch, you’ll descend via bus back to Aguas Calientes station, where you’ll board the return train to Ollantaytambo. The train ride back offers more spectacular views of the mountains and valleys. Once in Ollantaytambo, a tourist transport will transfer you back to your hotel in Cusco, completing a full-day adventure.

Additional Considerations

This tour is designed for a maximum of 15 travelers, providing a more personalized experience. Many reviews mention how this small-group setting reduces the crowds and makes the experience more intimate, especially at popular sites like Machu Picchu.

What the Tour Includes and Excludes

The package is quite comprehensive. Included are hotel pickup and drop-off, all necessary tickets (train, bus, entrance), transportation (Cusco to Ollantaytambo, train to Aguas Calientes, bus to Machu Picchu), and a professional bilingual guide.

What’s not included? Lunch (which travelers often arrange themselves), optional entrance fees for Huaynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, tips, and any personal expenses. Be aware that the cancellation policy is strict: this experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked.

Transportation: Comfort and Convenience

Traveling on EXPEDITION or VOYAGER trains is a major highlight, as these modern carriages combine style with comfort. The trains are spacious, with large windows offering panoramic views for photography and sightseeing. The journey from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes is often cited as a scenic highlight, with some reviewers noting how “the views during the train ride are breathtaking” and “it’s a relaxing way to travel between sites.”

The bus ride from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu is brief but offers impressive vistas, reinforcing the feeling of a special day out.

Timing and Group Size

Starting early means missing the crowds, and the small-group format promises a more relaxed experience. With a maximum of 15 travelers, you’re less likely to be lost in a sea of travelers and more likely to ask questions and get personalized attention.

The Value for Money

At $360 per person, this tour offers good value considering the logistics involved: transportation, tickets, guides, and the scenic train journey. Many travelers comment that the experience was “worth every dollar,” especially when considering the convenience of having everything organized for you.

But, there are some caveats. Several reviews mention disappointment with logistical hiccups, such as missing tickets or communication issues—so managing expectations and understanding the non-refundable policy is essential.

Authenticity, Guides, and Overall Experience

The guides are often praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, making the visit more engaging. A well-informed guide can deepen your understanding of Machu Picchu’s terraces, structures, and significance, transforming a sightseeing trip into an enriching experience.

Travelers who value authentic insights and a personal touch tend to appreciate these guided tours, especially in a small-group setting. The route and timing are carefully planned to avoid the heaviest crowds, which many reviews attest is a major advantage.

Final Thoughts

This full-day Machu Picchu tour from Cusco strikes a good balance between convenience, comfort, and insight. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want to avoid the complexities of independent travel, appreciate knowledgeable guides, and enjoy scenic train rides in style. While some reviews highlight logistical issues—mainly regarding ticketing or communication—the overall sentiment remains positive, especially regarding the breathtaking views and the authentic experience.

If you’re after a stress-free, guided adventure that includes all the essentials, this tour offers solid value. It’s ideal for first-time visitors keen to see Machu Picchu without the hassle of planning every detail. However, if you prefer more flexibility or are comfortable navigating public transport, other options might be worth exploring.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, train tickets on EXPEDITION or VOYAGER trains, bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, entrance to Machu Picchu, and a guided tour of the site.

How long does the entire day last?
The experience lasts approximately 10 hours, starting early with pickup and concluding with your return to Cusco in the evening.

Is the train ride comfortable?
Yes. The EXPEDITION and VOYAGER trains are modern and spacious, offering large windows for scenic views, making the journey both relaxing and visually enjoyable.

Can I visit Huaynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
Optional entrance fees for these additional hikes are not included and are subject to availability. You would need to purchase these separately if you wish to climb.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, sun protection, a rain jacket or poncho, water, snacks, your passport, camera, and some cash for extras or tipping.

What if my flights are canceled or delayed?
Since this tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed, delays or cancellations may mean missing out unless you reschedule independently. It’s best to coordinate your flights carefully.

How big are the groups?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and crowd-controlled experience.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides are professional and bilingual, typically speaking both English and Spanish. However, some reviews suggest that experiences with guides may vary.

Is hotel pickup guaranteed?
Pickup is offered within Cusco’s Historic Center, but specific times depend on train schedules. Confirmed details will be provided upon booking.

What happens if I have issues with tickets or the guide?
While most reviews are positive, some travelers report logistical hiccups or communication issues. The tour provider strives to improve and address concerns, but it’s advisable to stay flexible.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-organized, scenic, and educational way to visit Machu Picchu from Cusco, with the convenience of all-inclusive logistics. It caters especially to those who value comfort, guided insights, and a small-group atmosphere, making it a reliable choice for a memorable adventure.